Breaking News First by Deric Lostutter (2024)

06/03/2024

After results, and each won at least 14 states, it looks like the race for the general election is set between them, despite the formalities of delegate accumulation pending. Biden, despite being the incumbent president with a solid economic backdrop and Trump facing legal challenges, is not the clear favorite according to polls. Trump has been leading in several key states, potentially securing him enough electoral votes for the presidency.

This unexpected scenario, especially considering the Democrats' recent successes, underscores Biden's struggle with low approval ratings. A significant portion of the electorate views him as too old for effective leadership, a sentiment shared even among Democrats.

However, there's a possibility for Biden to turn the tide by focusing on pivotal issues like abortion and democracy. Early polls may not be definitive predictors of the election outcome, as voter engagement is expected to increase closer to the election, potentially reshaping the political landscape.

Despite this, the current sentiment cannot be ignored. Voters' familiarity with both candidates from their long public service tenures has led to a clear dissatisfaction with Biden's presidency. This sentiment is a departure from the Democrats' recent electoral strategy, which has relied on nominating centrist candidates against right-wing Republicans—a strategy that narrowly succeeded in 2020.

Biden's lack of popularity appears to be most pronounced among less engaged and less educated demographics, including young, Black, and Hispanic voters. While these groups have traditionally supported Democrats, their disengagement poses a challenge for Biden, especially as voter turnout is expected to increase in November.

There's hope that less engaged voters might rally behind Biden as the election approaches, particularly if the campaign can redirect their focus to crucial issues. Moreover, despite Trump's lead in polls, his unfavorable ratings are similar to those before the last election, and many voters remain critical of his actions.

The concept of "double haters," voters disillusioned with both candidates, further complicates the electoral landscape. Their decision, whether to abstain, vote for a third-party candidate, or choose between Biden and Trump, remains uncertain but crucial.

In essence, while Biden faces significant challenges, the dynamic nature of electoral politics and voter sentiments leaves room for shifts in the coming months.

04/03/2024

Breaking news out of Washington DC: The U.S. Supreme Court has reversed a Colorado Supreme Court ruling that sought to prevent former President Donald Trump from appearing on the state's Republican primary ballot. This significant win for the GOP front-runner clears a major hurdle in his bid for a second term, addressing an extraordinary legal challenge. The Colorado Supreme Court had previously ruled Trump unfit for the presidency, citing his actions related to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot and invoking the rarely used 14th Amendment's insurrection clause to bar him from holding public office.

24/02/2024

The clerk in Manhattan Supreme Court has just officially filed Justice Arthur Engoron’s February 16 ruling against Trump and his former top executives about an hour ago after 3 p.m. The total amount is more than $454 million with interest. This will increase by $87,500 daily until Trump pays.

NOTE: Trump has said he will appeal the ruling but can’t do so without putting up the cash.

NOTE: New York Attorney General Letitia James has vowed to seize Trump’s assets, including his buildings in New York if he cannot pay off.

19/02/2024

The Biden administration announced a substantial investment in the semiconductor industry, allocating $1.5 billion to GlobalFoundries for the expansion of its domestic production facilities in New York and Vermont. This funding is part of the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act, which permits the government to invest over $52 billion in rejuvenating the U.S.'s computer chip manufacturing and enhancing research and development within the field.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo highlighted the critical role of the chips produced by GlobalFoundries, emphasizing their importance in sophisticated military equipment, electric vehicles, smartphones, and broadband connectivity enhancements. The initiative aims not only to bolster technological advancements but also to secure the U.S.'s supply chain and competitive edge in global markets.

In addition to the direct investment, the government will offer loans up to $1.6 billion, with the total public and private investment expected to reach approximately $12.5 billion. The funds will support the construction of a new advanced chip manufacturing facility in Malta, New York, augment production at an existing Malta plant in collaboration with General Motors, and rejuvenate the Burlington, Vermont plant.

The expansion projects are anticipated to generate 1,500 manufacturing jobs and 9,000 construction jobs over the next decade. To support workforce development, $10 million will be dedicated to training programs, and GlobalFoundries will expand its $1,000 annual child care subsidy to include construction workers.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a key proponent of the CHIPS and Science Act, underscored the vital significance of chip technology to the U.S. economy and national security. Schumer's comments reflect a broader concern over the U.S.'s vulnerability to supply chain disruptions, a situation vividly demonstrated during the coronavirus pandemic's impact on the automotive industry.

The investment in semiconductor production is positioned against a backdrop of economic competition and national security challenges, particularly concerning China and Russia. It also addresses immediate economic concerns, such as inflation and its effects on American families, while signaling long-term strategic investments intended to drive future economic growth and innovation. This initiative reflects a bipartisan effort to strengthen the U.S.'s technological infrastructure and workforce, aiming to secure economic and strategic advantages for decades to come.

17/02/2024

In the Gaza Strip, innocent Palestinians endure extreme hardships under Israeli forces' siege, highlighting a severe humanitarian crisis. Israel's blockade confines countless families to mere blocks, obstructing essential humanitarian aid, including food and clean water. This dire situation forces individuals, including children as young as four, to resort to eating animal feed such as dog and goat food, in stark violation of international humanitarian laws.

The siege on Gaza's largest functioning hospital, Nasser Hospital, amidst Israel's war with Hamas, exemplifies the dire conditions. Israeli forces' occupation of the hospital led to the deaths of patients due to power outages and hindered the delivery of critical aid. Claims of militants hiding within medical facilities are contested, yet the blockade and military actions severely impact innocent lives, breaching the Geneva Conventions which safeguard civilians and mandate the provision of humanitarian assistance during conflicts.

This situation poses a moral and ethical dilemma. It raises the question of collective responsibility: Are the actions of a few extremist groups reflective of an entire population's values? In the U.S., for instance, extremist groups exist, but they do not represent American values as a whole. This parallel challenges us to consider the fairness of punishing an entire population for the actions of a few.

The conditions in Gaza—families starving, lacking clean water, their homes and livelihoods destroyed, and being collectively punished—are tantamount to what can only be described as a genocide, caused not by the actions of all but by a few extremists. This prompts us to ask: What if it were our families suffering under such conditions? What if it were our homes destroyed, our loved ones denied access to basic necessities, and living under the threat of extermination?

Such comparisons and questions aim to evoke empathy and a reevaluation of the situation in Gaza. They call for an urgent reassessment of actions and policies that lead to the suffering of innocent people, urging compliance with international laws designed to protect those caught in conflict zones. The global community must address these violations and work towards a solution that respects human rights and dignity for all, regardless of geopolitical conflicts.

16/02/2024

BREAKING: Trump found guilty of fraud and ordered to pay $364 million in civil fraud case for inflating wealth to lenders to obtain loans and falsifying business records and insurance fraud and banned from procuring new loans for 3 years. Children are also banned. None of them may serve as an officer or member of any new york legal entity, including the Trump enterprises.

13/02/2024

Estonia's Foreign Intelligence Service has warned that Russia is gearing up for a potential military clash with Western nations within the next ten years, suggesting that an increase in Western military capabilities could act as a deterrent. This caution comes as more Western officials highlight Russia's growing military threat, especially towards NATO's eastern countries, urging a bolstering of Europe's defenses.

The intelligence chief indicated this analysis stems from Russia's plans to significantly expand its military presence along its borders with NATO members, including Finland and the Baltic States of Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia. "Russia is on a trajectory of long-term confrontation with the West, expecting a possible conflict with NATO in the coming decade," Kaupo Rosin stated during the publication of Estonia's national security threat assessment.

He further mentioned that a Russian military aggression is deemed "highly unlikely" shortly, attributing this to Russia's military engagements in Ukraine. However, the risk could increase without a corresponding military build-up in Europe. Rosin emphasized the importance of preparedness to reduce the likelihood of a Russian attack.

Following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, Estonia and its Baltic neighbors have elevated their defense spending above 2% of their GDPs. In response, NATO allies have enhanced their presence in these states. Germany is set to station 4,800 troops in the region by 2027, marking its first permanent overseas deployment since World War II. Rosin approves of NATO and its allies' efforts to counteract Russian aggression.

He also commented on the upcoming Russian presidential elections, doubting any significant Russian military advancements in Ukraine beforehand due to the need for a substantial troop mobilization. Regarding U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump's remarks on potentially not defending under-spending NATO allies, Rosin criticized such statements as unhelpful. Finally, he highlighted Russia's superior ammunition supply over Ukraine, stressing the need for continued or increased Western support to alter the battlefield dynamics.

12/02/2024

After last week's inconclusive elections in Pakistan, the country's two largest political parties, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), are in a dispute over who will become the next prime minister. This political turmoil arises as Pakistan faces economic challenges and a rise in militant violence, with the share market falling 2.1% on Monday, signaling investor concerns.

The elections saw a strong showing from independents supported by Imran Khan, the jailed former prime minister accused of corruption, who managed to secure 93 of the 264 contested seats. The PML-N and PPP have expressed their commitment to national prosperity and stability, aiming to form a coalition that would minimize Khan's influence.

However, coalition talks are stalled over the selection of the prime ministerial candidate. The PML-N, led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his brother Shehbaz Sharif, and the PPP, led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Benazir Bhutto's son, are both vying for the position. The choice for PML-N lies between Nawaz, a three-time prime minister, and Shehbaz, the more recent leader. The PPP is pushing for Bhutto Zardari, aiming to make him Pakistan's youngest prime minister since his mother.

To become prime minister, a candidate must secure a simple majority of 169 seats in the 336-member National Assembly. The political landscape is further complicated by former members of Khan's Tehreek-e-Insaf party potentially joining the fray or contesting the election results in court.

Despite the potential for protests against the election outcome, a significant demonstration planned by PTI supporters in Peshawar was called off, indicating a possibly volatile yet restrained political climate as the nation awaits the formation of a new government.

12/02/2024

Some Republican figures have criticized former President Donald Trump for stating he wouldn't defend NATO allies against a Russian attack if those countries were behind in their defense contributions. Chris Christie called Trump "unfit to be president of the United States" in response to Trump's comments at a South Carolina rally, where he mentioned a conversation with a leader of a NATO country, saying, "No, I would not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them (Russia) to do whatever the hell they want. You gotta pay."

The White House and other Western officials condemned Trump's remarks as "appalling and unhinged." The issue of NATO members not meeting the 2% GDP defense spending target has been a longstanding tension, with only 11 of the 31 members currently meeting this goal.

Nikki Haley, challenging Trump for the 2024 Republican nomination, criticized siding with Russia, especially given the casualties from Putin's war against Ukraine. Senator Lindsey Graham, although a Trump ally, disagreed with Trump's NATO comments, pointing out that "Russia didn't invade anybody when he was president and if he's president again they won't."

Other Republicans like Senator Thom Tillis criticized Trump's understanding of NATO commitments, and Senator Rand Paul called Trump's remarks "a stupid thing to say." Meanwhile, some Republicans defended Trump, with Senator Marco Rubio stating that Trump's approach to NATO is not unprecedented among American presidents, and Jason Miller, a senior Trump campaign advisor, praised Trump's previous term for its peace and prosperity, contrasting it with Biden's tenure.

Democratic Senator Peter Welch criticized Trump for normalizing "belligerent behavior," emphasizing the seriousness of his statements.

12/02/2024

In a significant operation under the veil of airstrikes in Rafah, Israel freed two Israeli-Argentinian hostages, Fernando Simon Marman and Louis Hare. The airstrikes reportedly resulted in 67 Palestinian casualties and numerous injuries. The release marked a moment of relief amidst the ongoing conflict that has left Gaza heavily damaged, with thousands dead or injured.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded the operation, asserting the necessity of sustained military action for the freedom of all hostages, despite the international outcry against the potential for a ground assault on Rafah. This operation highlights the delicate balance between military objectives and civilian harm.

A stark testament to the human cost of the conflict was voiced by Ibrahim Hassouna, who lamented the loss of his family in the airstrikes, emphasizing the indiscriminate nature of the bombing that fails to distinguish between combatants and innocents. His tragic account underscores the devastating impact of military operations on civilians.

The operation to free Marman and Hare involved a tactical breach and engagement with militants, demonstrating the complexities and dangers of such rescue missions. Their release was met with gratitude from the Argentinian government, acknowledging the successful return of their citizens.

The civilian repercussions of the conflict extend beyond the immediate area of military engagement, affecting displaced families seeking refuge from the violence. The narrative of a Gaza businessman, Emad, captured the fear and desperation of those caught in the crossfire, highlighting the broader implications of military strategies on the civilian population.

Amidst international concerns, a Dutch court's decision to block the export of F-35 fighter jet parts to Israel over potential violations of international humanitarian law reflects growing scrutiny over the conduct of the conflict. President Joe Biden's dialogue with Netanyahu emphasized the need for a measured approach to military operations, particularly in densely populated areas like Rafah, to mitigate civilian casualties.

This operation and its aftermath bring to light the complex interplay of military tactics, geopolitical considerations, and the profound human cost of conflict, illustrating the urgent need for a balanced and humane approach to resolving such crises.

07/02/2024

BREAKING: In a significant development, a senior leader of the Kataib Hezbollah group, supported by Iran, was eliminated in a targeted strike in Iraq, according to a senior official's confirmation to CBS News. The strike, conducted on Wednesday, aimed at a high-ranking commander overseeing operations in Syria. Kataib Hezbollah has been identified by the U.S. as a key player in multiple assaults against American forces stationed in Iraq and Syria, including a lethal drone attack in Jordan that resulted in the deaths of three U.S. soldiers and injuries to several others.

This action in Iraq is a direct response from the U.S. as part of President Biden's promised retaliation following the drone strike in Jordan. The U.S. initiated its countermeasures last Friday, targeting over 85 locations across Iraq and Syria. These sites, utilized by militia groups and their supporters from the Iran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, included command centers, missile depots, and rocket caches, as detailed by U.S. Central Command.

Since October 17, militia groups backed by Iran have executed no less than 168 assaults on American military personnel in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan. Pentagon data reveals these attacks have resulted in the deaths of three U.S. service members, critically injured two, caused serious injuries to nine, and inflicted non-serious injuries on 132 individuals.

07/02/2024

On Tuesday, a security contractor previously working for the U.S. State Department was arrested under federal charges connected to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, as detailed in an arrest warrant. The individual, Kevin Michael Alstrup, faced charges for unauthorized entry and remaining in a restricted area, engaging in disorderly conduct, and participating in demonstrations within a Capitol building.

This legal action, recorded in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, did not list any legal representation for Alstrup at the time. The New York Times initially reported this development, noting a State Department spokesperson's confirmation of Alstrup's role as a third-party contractor tasked with uniformed officer services.

The FBI confirmed Alstrup's employment as a diplomatic security officer with the State Department. This arrest is part of the broader aftermath of the Capitol siege by supporters of then-President Donald Trump, aimed at obstructing the certification of the 2020 election results favoring Joe Biden. The incident was the culmination of persistent unfounded assertions by Trump regarding his electoral victory.

Trump, on August 3, 2023, entered a not guilty plea to charges related to his attempts to contest the 2020 election outcome, charges filed by Special Counsel Jack Smith. The ongoing legal proceedings from the Capitol attack have resulted in over 1,200 arrests, with more than 600 individuals pleading guilty and over 100 convicted at trial, showcasing the extensive legal repercussions stemming from the events of January 6.

06/02/2024

Breaking: found guilty on all counts of involuntary manslaughter

06/02/2024

BREAKING: APPELLATE COURT RULES DONALD TRUMP NOT IMMUNE FROM CRIMINAL CHARGES

In a unanimous decision by a three-judge panel, which includes two appointees of Joe Biden and one of George H.W. Bush, the appeals court ruled that former President Trump is not immune from criminal charges. Trump faces four counts related to election subversion, having pleaded not guilty. Despite his claims of working within his presidential capacity to "ensure election integrity" and assertions of immunity and double jeopardy protection, the court rejected these arguments. The question of immunity is likely to be considered by the Supreme Court, marking one of several significant Trump-related cases addressed this year. The district judge previously overseeing Trump's case dismissed his immunity claims, a decision Trump appealed, leading to the expedited review by the DC Circuit.

06/02/2024

Country music legend Toby Keith has passed away, as confirmed by his official web and social media platforms early Tuesday, 18 months following his announcement of being diagnosed with stomach cancer. At the age of 62, the artist known for hits like "Should've Been a Cowboy" succumbed to his illness Monday night, surrounded by loved ones. The family's statement praised his graceful and courageous battle against the disease.

Keith's struggle with cancer was described as a fluctuating journey of good and challenging days. "It's a constant up and down, but I'm feeling good today," Keith remarked during an E! News interview, standing beside his wife, Tricia Lucus, his partner for almost four decades.

December 2023 saw Keith return to the stage at Park MGM in Las Vegas for his first major performances since disclosing his cancer battle. In a video announcement, he expressed his eagerness to reconnect with fans and get back into the rhythm of performing. "After overcoming both COVID and cancer, I'm seizing control and getting the band together again," Keith declared, highlighting his resilience through his health challenges.

Throughout his illustrious career, Keith entertained several U.S. presidents, including George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump, reflecting his significant impact on American culture. His contributions to music were recognized in 2021 when he received the National Medal of the Arts from Trump.

Breaking News First by Deric Lostutter

06/03/2024

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