Jeff Flake Endorses Kamala Harris, Emphasizes Need for Bipartisanship and Border Reform
Former Arizona Senator and Republican Jeff Flake has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential election, citing her potential to unite the country and bring bipartisanship back to Washington. Flake, who has been a vocal critic of former President Trump, made his announcement on ABC News, where he praised Harris' handling of foreign policy and her recent proposal for stricter asylum laws.
Having served as U.S. Ambassador to Turkey until September, Flake explained that he waited until now to make his endorsement because he was barred from political activity in his former role. He also mentioned that Republicans need to support a candidate who respects the rule of law, unlike those who seek to overturn election results. He believes that Harris, with her legal background and experience as a prosecutor, is well-prepared to handle tough issues like immigration and national security.
Flake joins a list of notable Republicans, including former Vice President Dick
Cheney and his daughter, Liz Cheney, who have endorsed Harris. He pointed to her bipartisan approach to problem-solving as a key factor in his decision, adding that Harris âought to court all voters,â especially moderates and conservatives. Flake also praised her readiness to serve as commander-in-chief, noting her strong support for Ukraine and her clear understanding of the U.S.âs global alliances.
On the issue of immigration, Flake, who supported a bipartisan immigration bill during his time in Congress, said that Harris' commitment to immigration reform is critical. He noted that real change can only come through bipartisan collaboration, and he trusts that Harris can bring both sides together to pass meaningful legislation.
Hurricane Helene Claims 26 Lives Across the Southeast
At least 26 people have died as Hurricane Helene sweeps through the Southeast. Georgia alone has 11 casualties, including a heroic first responder. Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina have also reported deaths, highlighting the stormâs widespread devastation.
Trump Seeks Reversal of $454M Fraud Penalty in NY Court
Former President Donald Trumpâs lawyers will appear in a New York court Thursday to appeal a $454 million fraud ruling. In a February decision, Judge Arthur Engoron found Trump, his sons, and top executives guilty of inflating the former presidentâs wealth to secure more favorable terms from lenders.
Engoronâs ruling described Trumpâs behavior as egregious, with inflated property values and misleading claims about the size and scope of his assets, such as valuing rent-controlled apartments as if they were not regulated.
Trumpâs legal team contends that the case, brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, is politically motivated and that his assets were undervalued, not exaggerated.
The defense maintains that lenders were eager to work with Trump, recognizing his business acumen, and that no financial harm occurred. Meanwhile, the attorney generalâs office insists that the ruling is necessary to maintain honesty in the stateâs commercial markets.
Trump posted a $175 million bond to proceed with the appeal, which now continues in the New York Appellate Division. As the legal fight presses on, Trumpâs attorneys are determined to reverse what they see as a deeply flawed judgment.
President Biden Reflects on Exiting the 2024 Race, Expresses Confidence in His Decision
President Joe Biden appeared on "The View" and shared his thoughts about stepping out of the 2024 presidential race. Reflecting on his decision, Biden said he is "at peace" with it, mentioning that his original goal was to be a "transition president." While his administration achieved significant success, Biden said the process took longer than expected. He emphasized the close working relationship he had with Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her "tough" and "honorable," while highlighting their shared optimism for the future. Biden also addressed the elephant in the room: his confidence that he could have beaten Donald Trump in November. "I was confident I would beat Trump. He's a loser," Biden stated firmly. This interview marks Biden's first public appearance since the Democratic National Convention and the Harris-Trump debate.
Ongoing Coastal Erosion Causes Third House Collapse in 4 Days in North Carolina
A third home has collapsed along the coast of North Carolina in just four days, signaling the growing dangers posed by severe coastal erosion in the Rodanthe area of the Outer Banks. The house, located on G A Kohler Court, was unoccupied when it collapsed into the ocean, sending dangerous debris into the surrounding waters and across the beach. As a result, officials have closed a 2-mile stretch of beach, warning swimmers and surfers to avoid the area due to the floating debris, which poses injury risks.
Residents and homeowners are increasingly alarmed by the rapid erosion, which has already caused the collapse of several homes in recent years. Paul Troy, the owner of the first home that collapsed last Friday, expressed deep concern over the situation. His family had owned the property since 2008 and had recently seen their staircase and septic system damaged by rising tides. "We lose sleep over this," Troy said, noting that many property owners feel helpless against the power of the ocean.
The National Park Service is working alongside local contractors to clean up the debris and restore the beach. The park service has also initiated a program to purchase at-risk homes and demolish them to protect the coastline. Despite these efforts, Rodanthe continues to face significant challenges as more homes are threatened by the oceanâs encroachment. This marks the tenth house collapse in the area in the past four years.
"US-DBC's DBC Refund PAF: Boosting Small Business Success"
Small businesses are essential to the economic fabric of the United States, driving innovation and growth. However, these businesses often face significant challenges, including the burden of credit card fees. The U.S. Department of Bank Card (US-DBC) offers a solution with its DBC Refund PAF program, providing crucial financial support.
The DBC Refund PAF allows small businesses to receive credit card fee refunds of up to $50,000. This financial assistance is invaluable, especially in today's competitive market. The program is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that businesses from various sectors can benefit and reinvest their savings into their operations, fostering growth and sustainability.
A major advantage of the DBC Refund PAF is its simplicity. The application process is streamlined and accessible online, reducing bureaucratic hurdles. This user-friendly approach is vital for small business owners who need efficient solutions to their financial challenges.
The program's commitment to transparency and integrity sets it apart. The US-DBC operates with high ethical standards, ensuring fair treatment for all applicants. This dedication builds trust among small business owners, encouraging them to utilize the program's benefits.
In addition to direct financial support, the US-DBC has partnered with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Small Business Administration (SBA). These partnerships enhance the support provided to small businesses, aligning with tax regulations and offering additional financial guidance.
The DBC Refund PAF is a lifeline for small businesses, providing much-needed financial relief and enabling them to focus on delivering quality products and services. By reducing the burden of credit card fees, the program empowers businesses to thrive and contribute to the economy. As it continues to evolve, the DBC Refund PAF will have a lasting impact on the American business landsca
Biden to Finish Term, Withdraws from 2024 Race
The White House announced on Sunday that President Joe Biden will finish his term after deciding to withdraw from his re-election campaign.
âHe looks forward to finishing his term and delivering more historic results for the American people,â said Andrew Bates, a White House spokesperson.
Bates pointed to Bidenâs accomplishments, including economic growth and NATO strengthening. Biden's remaining agenda focuses on lowering costs, job creation, and protecting Social Security. âHe will also keep fighting to protect Americansâ freedoms from radical abortion bans and attacks on the rule of law,â Bates added.
Biden, whose term ends in January 2025, announced on social media on July 21 that he is pulling out of the 2024 race, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris.
In response, Republicans like House Speaker Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) demanded Bidenâs resignation. Others, such as Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), proposed using the 25th Amendment to remove him from office.
However, lawmakers including Sen. Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.) believe Biden should remain in office to promote unity and peace.
Biden has no public events scheduled from July 22 to July 28.
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Cre: BBC News
