THREAD: battle lines drawn trumps dramatic...

DEPAUL University UNDER Fire: Jewish Students’ Legal Battle Ignites Emotion

03 April 2025 — Lawyers for two Jewish students attacked at DePaul University will hold a press conference Wednesday to announce new developments in their case. The Lawfare Project claims the university has failed to protect Jewish students.

“DePaul University failed to protect Max and Michael when they were viciously attacked by masked assailants last fall,” stated Jaclyn Clark, Counsel for the victims. She criticized the university for not ensuring student safety and vowed accountability. Despite releasing suspect photos, no arrests have been made since the attack.

The Lawfare Project, with Grant and Eisenhofer P.A., will speak outside the Daley Center at 10 a.m. Senior Counsel Gerard Filitti will join victims Max Long and Michael Kaminsky to discuss legal actions.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about hate crimes and university responses, emphasizing the victims’ legal battle against DePaul University.

KING Charles III’S Courageous Fight: Cancer Battle Takes a Toll

29 March 2025 — King Charles III was briefly hospitalized due to side effects from cancer treatment, causing the cancellation of public events on Friday. The 76-year-old monarch has been fighting an undisclosed type of cancer for over a year. Despite these challenges, he plans to resume his duties soon with a state visit to Italy next month.

The royal family has faced major health issues since January 2024 when both King Charles and Kate, the Princess of Wales, were hospitalized for different medical procedures. Doctors found that both had cancer, marking a tough time for the family. While Kate finished chemotherapy in September, King Charles continues his treatment.

Charles’s reign began with Queen Elizabeth II’s passing and included his first foreign visit as king to Germany and his coronation at Westminster Abbey. His determination to carry out royal duties despite personal health struggles is clear in his upcoming plans. The king’s resilience shows his commitment during these trying times for the royal family.

250 YEARS of “GIVE ME Liberty Or Give ME Death”: A Timeless Battle CRY

23 March 2025 — The phrase “Give me LIBERTY or give me death!” has echoed through history, from Tiananmen Square to COVID-19 protests in the U.S. Malcolm X used it in 1964 for equal rights for Black Americans. President Donald Trump quoted it on Truth Social during his criminal hush money trial last year.

Originally spoken by Patrick Henry 250 years ago, the phrase urged Virginia colonists to prepare for war against Britain. This call came as tensions rose in Massachusetts with British control over Boston. Historian John Ragosta emphasizes that Henry’s speech was about community and national unity, not personal gain.

Henry’s speech was about 1,200 words long but is remembered for those seven iconic words that have endured like Shakespearean lines. Patrick Henry Jolly, a descendant of Henry, notes its adaptability across various contexts while stressing the importance of understanding its original meaning.

TRUMP vs PUTIN: The Dramatic Ukraine Ceasefire Standoff

17 March 2025 — An upcoming virtual summit, led by Starmer’s “coalition of the willing,” will discuss military and financial aid for Ukraine. The meeting will also consider a peacekeeping mission if Russia agrees to talks.

About 25 countries, including European partners and Ukraine, plan to join. Notably missing is the United States, which has changed its stance on the war under President Donald Trump after his recent clash with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in the Oval Office.

The U.S. proposed a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, backed by Zelenskyy but met with conditions from Putin. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed “cautious optimism” about Putin’s potential agreement after talks with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff.

Starmer doubts Putin’s intentions and criticizes his delay tactics regarding Trump’s peace plan. He insists that concrete commitments are needed as Putin continues playing “pointless games” with ceasefire proposals, showing little seriousness about achieving peace.

DIDDY’S Legal Battle: Feds’ Search Warrants Under Fire

24 February 2025 — Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team is fighting back against federal search warrants. They filed motions to suppress evidence obtained during raids on his homes and internet history. The defense argues that the government included “false statements” in their warrant applications.

The motion claims the evidence includes Diddy’s handwritten notes protected by attorney-client privilege. This legal move follows the resignation of his attorney, Anthony Ricco, who cited professional and ethical reasons for stepping down. Diddy’s team is urgently challenging the legality of these searches to protect privileged information.

CITY TAKES ACTION Against SOUTH PHILLY GANG VIOLENCE

Authorities in South Philadelphia have arrested 12 individuals linked to a violent street gang. This group has been responsible for shootings and carjackings, victimizing dozens in the community. Officials aim to dismantle the gang’s operations as part of a broader effort to enhance public safety amid rising crime rates.

CENTRAL NY MAN FACES GRAVE CHILD ABUSE CHARGES

A man in Central New York faces multiple charges for sexually abusing a child under 11 years old over several incidents from 2018 to 2019. Authorities stress the importance of child safety as they pursue serious legal action against him. This case underscores ongoing concerns about child abuse and community vigilance needed to protect vulnerable populations.

BURNSVILLE STANDOFF: Dramatic Arrest Ends Intense DAY

24 February 2025 — A tense standoff in Burnsville, Minnesota, ended late Sunday night with the arrest of a suspect. The incident began in the afternoon, leading to a neighborhood lockdown and a shelter-in-place warning for residents.

Multiple law enforcement agencies responded swiftly, ensuring no injuries occurred during the resolution. Authorities have not yet released details about the suspect or what triggered this dramatic event.

Local officials praised law enforcement’s quick action and urged residents to stay alert. The motive behind the standoff is still under investigation, with more information expected soon.

CALIFORNIA STORM Chaos: Dramatic Rescues and Evacuations Unfold

14 February 2025 — A fierce storm hit southern California, causing chaos and damage. In Malibu, debris flows pushed a car off the highway into the ocean. The driver, a Los Angeles Fire Department member, escaped with minor injuries.

Though heavy rains eased by Thursday night, rock and mudslide risks lingered on wildfire-scarred hillsides. Fires had stripped vegetation, leaving soil vulnerable to slides even after rain stopped. In Pacific Palisades, roads were covered in sludge as bulldozers cleared storm debris.

In north Altadena, mud and plants blocked roads near the Eaton Fire burn scar despite precautions. The area stayed mostly empty as residents followed warnings about potential dangers.

Sierra Madre issued evacuation orders for areas affected by the Eaton Fire due to active mud and debris flows. Officials warned that emergency services would not enter until conditions improved for safe access.

BRITISH Nationals TRAPPED in Iran: Urgent Diplomatic Battle Unfolds

13 February 2025 — Two BRITISH nationals are trapped in Iran under unclear circumstances, sparking urgent diplomatic efforts from the UK. The UK government is actively engaging with Tehran to ensure their safety. This incident occurs amid rising tensions between the two nations, highlighting the need for a swift resolution.

The situation adds complexity to already strained relations between the UK and Iran. The UK remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad while navigating these challenging dynamics. Human rights advocates demand transparency regarding detainee treatment, urging adherence to international standards.

The UK Foreign Office maintains ongoing dialogue with Iranian authorities, seeking clarity and resolution. Efforts are underway to secure the release of those detained as more information becomes available. This case underscores potential impacts on diplomatic discussions and may influence future foreign policy towards Iran.

TRUMP’S Bold Move: Legal Battle Over Birthright Citizenship Sparks Intense Debate

05 February 2025 — A federal judge will soon hear a lawsuit challenging former President Donald Trump’s order to end birthright citizenship. This legal fight heats up the ongoing debate over U.S. immigration policy. The case questions if it’s constitutional to change the 14th Amendment’s promise of citizenship for those born on American soil.

Civil rights groups and state attorneys general argue Trump’s order undermines basic rights and contradicts established law. They say it could scare immigrant communities, affecting millions born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents. Meanwhile, Trump officials defend the order as crucial for stopping illegal immigration and protecting national security.

The outcome may greatly affect both immigration law and upcoming elections, with candidates likely taking sides on this hot issue. As arguments unfold, a ruling could either stop or push forward Trump’s order, further igniting political tensions in 2025.

UK Ambulance Service BEGS Public: STOP Misusing Emergency Lines

02 February 2025 — The Welsh Ambulance Service is pleading with the public to stop making non-emergency calls. With the U.K.'s public health services already stretched thin, these unnecessary calls are causing delays for those truly in need. Last year, 15% of their 426,000 calls were not urgent, including some that weren’t even health-related.

Dispatcher Emma Worrall shared memorable instances of non-urgent calls. One involved a pet alligator escape that left her supervisor puzzled. Other frivolous calls included complaints about chipped teeth and minor injuries like a bloody toe or concerns after sticking a finger in an electrical socket.

Worrall stresses the importance of prioritizing true emergencies where every second counts. She understands that people have different perceptions of emergencies but emphasizes the need for discernment before dialing 999. Calls about being locked out or pets in rivers only add to the strain on emergency services already under pressure.

TRUMP’S Bold Move: Legal Battle Over Birthright Citizenship Ignites

23 January 2025 — Attorneys general from 22 states are suing President Trump to stop his executive order on birthright citizenship. The order denies U.S. citizenship to children born in the country to unauthorized immigrants. This legal fight might greatly affect Trump’s immigration plans.

New Jersey’s Attorney General, Matthew J. Platkin, labeled the executive order “extraordinary and extreme.” Leading states like California and Massachusetts are questioning the legality of Trump’s decision, aiming to protect traditional immigration practices from recent changes by his administration.

This lawsuit adds to several legal challenges Trump faces post-inauguration. State governments and civil rights groups are resisting his immigration policies. The result could influence future talks on birthright citizenship in America.

UKRAINE’S Battle: How Drones and Trump Could Change the WAR

14 November 2024 — Ukrainian soldiers in the Kharkiv region are using drones to deliver supplies to troops on the front line. The Khartia brigade, led by a commander known as Kit, repurposes bomb-carrying drones to transport food, water, and hand warmers. These deliveries sustain soldiers for days as they battle Russian forces in harsh conditions.

Despite focusing on immediate challenges, Ukrainian troops are aware of potential changes with Donald Trump’s possible reelection. Trump has criticized U.S. support for Ukraine and praised Putin’s actions, which could alter American involvement in the conflict. However, Kit emphasizes that his priority is defending territory against Russian advances rather than speculating about political shifts.

Russia is intensifying attacks in Kharkiv with powerful bombs and drone swarms while advancing in other areas like Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia. Intelligence reports indicate up to 12,000 North Korean troops have been deployed near Russia’s border with Ukraine to bolster defenses against Ukrainian forces.

The situation highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics affecting Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty amid global political uncertainties. As these factors evolve, Ukrainian soldiers remain focused on their mission despite looming international changes that could impact their struggle significantly.

USA to BATTLE Britain for Wheelchair Basketball Gold

06 September 2024 — The 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris are nearing their end, but excitement remains. Team finals and medals in 13 sports will be awarded on Saturday.

In men’s wheelchair basketball, the United States will compete against Britain for the gold medal. Both teams dominated their semifinal matches, with Brian Bell and Gregg Warburton leading their respective squads.

A victory would mark the third consecutive gold for Team USA, while Britain seeks its first-ever gold in this sport. Britain’s last appearance in a gold-medal game was in 1996.

In blind football, Brazil will not win gold for the first time since 2004 and will play Colombia for the bronze medal instead.

USA to BATTLE Britain for Wheelchair Basketball Gold

06 September 2024 — The 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris are nearing their end, but excitement remains. Team finals and medals will be awarded in 13 sports on Saturday.

A key highlight is the gold medal match in men’s wheelchair basketball between the United States and Britain. Both teams dominated their semifinals, with Brian Bell and Gregg Warburton leading their respective squads.

Team USA head coach Robb Taylor noted that the two teams know each other “very well.” A victory would give the U.S. its third consecutive gold, while Britain seeks its first-ever win in this sport since 1996.

In blind football, Brazil will not win gold for the first time since 2004, competing instead for bronze against Colombia.

HISTORIC Somerset House In FLAMES: Firefighters Battle Massive Blaze

18 August 2024 — Smoke billowed from Somerset House as flames erupted from the roof. Firefighters on tall ladders showered water to control the blaze. The cause remains unknown, according to the London Fire Brigade.

About 100 firefighters and 15 engines were deployed to tackle the fire. Somerset House confirmed all staff and public were safe, and the site was closed.

The historic building, nearly 250 years old, houses the Courtauld Gallery with works by Van Gogh, Manet, and Cezanne. A scheduled breakdancing event was canceled due to the incident.

ISRAEL RESCUES Hostages: Dramatic Operation Against Hamas

08 June 2024 — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Israel Police, and Israel Security Agency (ISA) successfully rescued four hostages from Gaza. The hostages include Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv.

The rescue operation targeted two Hamas buildings above ground. Noa Argamani’s abduction had become a symbol of the October 7 Hamas terror attack, with footage of her kidnapping widely circulated.

The IDF shared a video showing the dramatic moment they freed three of the four hostages. This successful mission underscores Israel’s commitment to bringing its citizens home safely from terrorist captivity.

KING CHARLES III’S Health Battle Leaves Little Room for Prince Harry

09 May 2024 — King Charles III, having recently returned to his royal duties after a three-month battle with cancer, is reportedly too occupied to meet with Prince Harry. According to a spokesperson, the Duke of Sussex understands his father’s busy schedule and remains hopeful for a future reunion.

During a quick trip to London triggered by his father’s health news, Prince Harry discussed the ongoing challenges within the royal family. Since his departure from royal life in 2020 and move to California, he has frequently spoken out against what he perceives as unfair media coverage and underlying racism in royal dealings.

Prince Harry also attended an event supporting wounded veterans during his visit — a cause he deeply cares about. He shared in interviews that he hoped his father’s health crisis might help heal their strained relationship. However, the chance for reconciliation seems slim as their schedules continue to clash

This ongoing saga between father and son highlights not just personal family dynamics but also reflects broader issues of duty, media influence, and public perception within the royal family.

Prince Harry’s SECURITY BATTLE: UK Judge Rejects His Appeal for Protection

16 April 2024 — Prince Harry’s effort to secure police protection while in the UK has hit a new snag. A judge recently ruled against his appeal, limiting his access to government-funded security. This setback is part of the fallout from his decision to step back from royal duties.

The dispute has been ongoing for four years, rooted in Harry’s concerns over media intrusion and threats from online sources. However, High Court Judge Peter Lane upheld the government’s tailored security measures as lawful and appropriate in February.

Facing this latest defeat, Prince Harry’s path forward is now more complicated. To continue his fight, he must directly request permission from the Court of Appeal, as the High Court has denied him an automatic right to appeal.

This legal tussle highlights the unique challenges faced by members of the royal family who seek a different path away from their traditional roles and responsibilities.

NETANYAHU’S Health BATTLE: Deputy Steps Up as Prime Minister Faces Hernia Surgery

01 April 2024 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to undergo hernia surgery this Sunday night. The decision comes after a routine medical examination, according to the prime minister’s office.

In Netanyahu’s absence, Yariv Levin, deputy prime minister and justice minister, will step in as acting prime minister. Details about Netanyahu’s diagnosis remain undisclosed.

Despite his health challenges, the 74-year-old leader continues to maintain a busy schedule amidst Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas. His resilience follows last year’s health scare that necessitated the implantation of a pacemaker.

Recently, Netanyahu called off a delegation trip to Washington. This move was in response to President Biden’s administration failing to veto a U.N. resolution demanding a Gaza cease-fire without ensuring the release of all hostages held by Hamas.

UN Security Council REJECTS US-Proposed Ceasefire: A Dramatic Shift in Washington’s Stance

23 March 2024 — In a surprising turn of events on Friday, the United Nations Security Council failed to adopt a US-proposed resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Russia and China vetoed the measure, marking a significant shift in Washington’s approach towards Israel.

Historically, the US has shown reluctance towards using the term “ceasefire” and has vetoed measures that have included calls for one. However, this recent draft resolution did not explicitly demand that Israel end its campaign in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel would proceed with attacks on Hamas in Rafah irrespective of US support. This decision is met with opposition from the Biden Administration which has been ramping up public pressure on Israel.

The Democratic Party and Biden Administration initially backed Israel’s self-defensive war following the Hamas terror attack on October 7th. However, their stance seems to have shifted recently.

CENTRAL US RAVAGED: Tornadoes Leave Trail of Destruction and Heartbreak

15 March 2024 — A series of violent tornadoes tore through the central U.S., causing extensive damage and claiming at least three lives. The storms left a path of devastation, flattening homes and trailers in an RV park, with Ohio’s Logan County bearing the brunt of the destruction. Lakeview and Russells Point villages were among the hardest hit areas.

On Friday, search crews accompanied by cadaver dogs sifted through the debris for any additional victims. Despite challenges posed by gas leaks and fallen trees obstructing some neighborhoods, authorities conducted a thorough second sweep in areas initially checked right after the storm hit.

Sheriff Randy Dodds cautioned that recovery operations would take time but assured that he was not aware of anyone still missing. Meanwhile, residents like Sandy Smith shared chilling accounts of seeking shelter while their homes crumbled around them during the storm’s onslaught.

The aftermath paints a grim picture — twisted metal wrapped around tree tops, damaged campgrounds and laundromats, roofs sheared off houses. Snowplows were dispatched to clear roads strewn with debris as communities begin to grapple with their new reality.

UK-CANADA Trade Talks GRIND to a Halt: The Beef and Cheese Battle That’s Costing Billions

26 January 2024 — The UK government has unexpectedly put the brakes on post-Brexit trade talks with Canada. This sudden move follows a two-year stalemate over beef and cheese imports and exports, which began after Britain officially left the European Union.

Trade between these nations, valued at roughly 26 billion pounds ($33 billion) per year, has mostly persisted under the initial agreement made while Britain was still an EU member. However, Canadian negotiators are feeling the heat from their own beef industry and local cheesemakers. The former is pushing for access to the UK market for hormone-fed beef, while cheesemakers are raising alarms about tariff-free imports of British cheese.

The privilege of tariff-free British cheese exports came to a halt at the close of 2023 when a temporary agreement expired. This change led to a staggering 245% duty hike for British producers. Canada’s trade minister Mary Ng firmly stated that Canada “will never agree to a deal that isn’t beneficial for our workers, farmers and businesses.” Minette Batters, president of the National Farmers’ Union in England and Wales praised Britain’s resistance against hormone-fed beef imports.

Despite this hiccup in negotiations, the UK government remains open-minded about future discussions. However, any significant progress appears unlikely at present.

KING CHARLES Undergoes Treatment: Inside His Prostate Health Battle

26 January 2024 — King Charles, aged 75, entered the London Clinic private hospital on Friday for a procedure related to an enlarged prostate. Buckingham Palace has confirmed this news, but how long he will stay in the hospital is still unknown.

This same medical facility recently welcomed Catherine, Princess of Wales and Charles’ daughter-in-law, for scheduled abdominal surgery.

Before his own treatment began earlier in the day, King Charles made time to visit Catherine at the hospital. The Palace had previously disclosed this “corrective procedure” for his enlarged prostate last week.

2023 RECAP SHOWDOWN: Washington Examiner Editors’ Battle in Year-End Trivia Challenge

26 December 2023 — As 2023 draws to a close, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the year’s most noteworthy events in Washington. Join Chris Irvine, Managing Editor, and Jim Antle, Executive Magazine Editor of the Washington Examiner for an engaging recap.

Witness these two seasoned experts as they go head-to-head in a trivia duel. The contest is orchestrated by Investigations Editor Sarah Bedford to determine who holds the upper hand when it comes to knowledge about the West Wing, Supreme Court, and Capitol Hill happenings.

To jog your memory on 2023’s major headlines and more, join our Washington Examiner reporters and editors for this festive end-of-year trivia challenge. It promises to be an enlightening journey through the past year’s key moments.

TOILET To TAP": California’s Bold Move to Battle Drought with Recycled Sewage Water

12 December 2023 — In a daring attempt to tackle severe droughts, California is contemplating the adoption of a new technology that recycles sewage water. The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) recently unveiled proposed regulations for direct potable reuse — a process that swiftly transforms wastewater into drinking water within hours.

This innovative method stands apart from the current indirect potable reuse system, which gradually enhances treated wastewater through groundwater recharge or dilution with surface water.

The SWRCB is set to review testimonies on these regulations before making their final decision next week. If given the green light, “toilet to tap” projects could soon be underway in Santa Clara County, Los Angeles, and San Diego among other communities.

Anticipating these regulations, water agencies in Santa Clara, San Diego and Los Angeles have already initiated pilot projects. Globally too this concept is gaining traction — countries like Israel are also testing similar ideas while examining potential risks such as pharmaceutical byproducts reentering the public supply post-treatment.

TRUMP’S FIGHT: The Fourteenth Amendment Takes Center Stage in Ballot Battle

03 November 2023 — A brewing legal battle is placing the spotlight on the Fourteenth Amendment’s “Insurrection Clause”. Plaintiffs argue that President Trump’s actions on January 6, 2021, should bar him from appearing on future ballots.

This legal challenge is not unique to one state. Similar cases are popping up across the country, including Colorado. Here, Judge Sarah Wallace, an appointee of Democrat Governor Jared Polis, presides over the case. There is a possibility that this issue may escalate to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Trump’s defense team counters by asserting that this amendment doesn’t extend to presidents. They highlight that while it mentions Senators and Representatives among others, it does not explicitly include presidents. The presidential oath has its own separate provision in the Constitution.

ZELENSKYY’S DC Visit: Anticipation Rises Amid Tense Congressional Funding Battle

19 September 2023 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is reportedly preparing for a Washington, D.C. visit next week. This follows his recent trip to the United Nations General Assembly in New York. ABC News and Punchbowl News first reported this information, citing sources familiar with the preparations.

Zelenskyy is set to meet key lawmakers during his visit. He might also make appearances at Capitol Hill and the White House, places he has visited before. In fact, last December he met President Biden at the White House and addressed a joint meeting of Congress.

The timing of Zelenskyy’s potential return to Washington aligns with an ongoing heated debate in Congress over government funding. This debate is partly fueled by discussions about U.S. support for Ukraine. As of now, neither Zelenskyy nor Ukrainian officials have commented on this upcoming visit.