THREAD: it seems that no news briefing

SUPREME COURT Decision Shocks Virginia Voters: A WIN For Election Integrity

31 October 2024 — The SUPREME COURT’s conservative majority has backed Virginia’s voter registration purge. The state argues this move targets non-citizens trying to vote. This decision supports Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Republican goals, aiming to safeguard election integrity.

A Virginian affected by the purge called it “a very bad October surprise.” Despite living in Virginia her whole life, her registration was canceled. The court did not explain its ruling, which is typical in emergency appeals.

The three liberal justices dissented, showing ongoing tensions over voting rights and election integrity in America. Republicans believe such actions are crucial to prevent voter fraud and ensure fair elections.

BLINKEN’S Mideast Mission: NO Cease-Fire, Only Frustration

26 October 2024 — Secretary of State Antony Blinken wrapped up his weeklong Middle East trip in London without securing a cease-fire for Gaza. This result was expected by U.S. and Arab officials, who called the ongoing regional conflicts a “nightmare.” Blinken visited Israel, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia following President Biden’s orders after the killing of Hamas military chief Yahya Sinwar.

During Blinken’s visit, talks focused on proposals to release Israeli hostages and end the war in Gaza. Discussions also included post-war plans for Palestinian governance and regional security. Despite low hopes, U.S. and Israeli negotiators plan to meet in Qatar soon to restart talks with Hamas.

On Blinken’s last day in Tel Aviv, air raid sirens blared as rockets from Lebanon were intercepted by Israel’s military. This highlighted the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict that has dragged on for over a year since its escalation between Israel and Hamas militants.

NO CHARGES for Pulse Nightclub Owners: Families Outraged

29 August 2024 — The Orlando Police Department has closed its investigation into the former owners of Pulse nightclub without filing any charges. Victims’ families and survivors had requested the probe, alleging criminal culpability. Police found no probable cause for involuntary manslaughter by culpable negligence.

About two dozen people, mostly survivors and family members of those who died in the 2016 shooting, gave statements to investigators. They cited issues like unavailable building plans, unpermitted renovations, and possible overcapacity at the club. Despite these claims, investigators concluded that these factors did not impede rescuers or contribute to the tragedy.

Investigators were unable to interview former owners Barbara and Rosario Poma but determined their actions didn’t show reckless disregard for human life. The report stated they couldn’t have reasonably anticipated a terrorist attack at Pulse nightclub.

A spokesperson for the Pomas declined to comment on Wednesday. On Facebook, Pulse Families and Survivors for Justice called the investigation a “sham.” The police report emphasized too many unknowns about how gunman Omar Mateen entered the club that night.

LABOUR PARTY Surges Amid UK Election Betting Scandal

29 June 2024 — The U.K. general election on July 4 is approaching, with the Labour Party expected to defeat Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives. Polls indicate Labour leader Keir Starmer will likely form the next government.

The Conservative campaign has struggled, facing allegations of election betting involving figures close to Sunak. This scandal has further dampened their already lackluster efforts.

In the U.K., the prime minister decides election dates, unlike fixed schedules in countries like the U.S. This unique system has led to a market for predicting election dates and outcomes.

Police officers and Conservative insiders are under investigation for their involvement in this betting scandal, adding another layer of controversy as over 50 countries prepare for elections in 2024.

SCOTLAND on the BRINK: First Minister Faces Critical No Confidence Vote

26 April 2024 — Scotland’s political scene is heating up as First Minister Humza Yousaf faces a potential ousting. His decision to end a coalition with the Scottish Green Party over climate policy disagreements has sparked calls for an early election. Leading the Scottish National Party (SNP), Yousaf now finds his party without a parliamentary majority, intensifying the crisis.

The termination of the 2021 Bute House Agreement has stirred considerable controversy, leading to severe repercussions for Yousaf. The Scottish Conservatives have declared their intention to hold a no-confidence vote against him next week. With all opposition forces, including former allies like the Greens, potentially unified against him, Yousaf’s political career hangs in balance.

The Greens have openly criticized SNP’s handling of environmental issues under Yousaf’s leadership. Green co-leader Lorna Slater remarked, “We no longer trust that there can be a progressive government in Scotland committed to climate and nature.” This comment sheds light on profound disagreements within pro-independence groups regarding their policy focus.

The ongoing political discord poses a significant threat to Scotland’s stability, possibly forcing an unplanned election well before 2026. This situation highlights the complex challenges faced by minority governments in maintaining cohesive alliances and achieving policy goals amidst conflicting interests.

JUSTICE DENIED: No Charges for British Soldiers in Bloody Sunday Case

20 April 2024 — Fifteen British soldiers linked to the 1972 Bloody Sunday killings in Northern Ireland will not face perjury charges. The Public Prosecution Service cited insufficient evidence for convictions related to their testimony about the events in Derry. Previously, an inquiry had labeled the soldiers’ actions as self-defense against IRA threats.

A more detailed inquiry concluded in 2010 that the soldiers had fired unjustifiably on unarmed civilians and misled investigators for decades. Despite these findings, only one soldier, known as Soldier F, is currently facing prosecution for his actions during the incident.

The decision has sparked outrage among victims’ families, who see it as a denial of justice. John Kelly, whose brother was killed on Bloody Sunday, criticized the lack of accountability and accused the British Army of deceit throughout the Northern Ireland conflict.

The legacy of “the Troubles,” which claimed over 3,600 lives and ended with the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, continues to impact Northern Ireland deeply. The recent prosecutorial decisions underscore ongoing tensions and unresolved grievances from this violent period in history.

GAZA UNDER Fire: Israeli Strike Leaves No Safe Haven, Claims 68 Lives

25 December 2023 — In a recent Israeli assault in central Gaza, health officials report the death toll has reached at least 68. The casualties, including women and children, were hurriedly transported by distraught Palestinians to a nearby hospital. The Israeli military remains silent on the incident.

Ahmad Turokmani mourns the loss of several family members in this attack, including his daughter and grandson. He voiced his despair over the absence of safety in Gaza, stating that no one was spared from this onslaught. Initial reports from the Health Ministry estimated an even higher death toll at 70.

As Christmas Eve fell upon a region scarred by war, Bethlehem called off its holiday festivities while smoke shrouded Gaza. Concurrently, Egypt pursued potential negotiations with Israel for a hostage exchange deal. This relentless conflict has uprooted nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million inhabitants and taken approximately 20,400 Palestinian lives.

The Maghazi refugee camp situated east of Deir al-Balah bore the brunt of this latest strike’s impact. Preliminary hospital data indicate that among those killed were at least twelve women and seven children. This harrowing event highlights the mounting human toll of this ongoing conflict.

ADAM JOHNSON: A Heartfelt Tribute to a Fallen Hockey Star as Nottingham Panthers Retire No 47

21 November 2023 — The Nottingham Panthers paid tribute to their late teammate, Adam Johnson, with a special memorial game this past Saturday. In honor of Johnson, the team also retired his No. 47 jersey during the event. This heartfelt gesture follows Johnson’s untimely death from an on-ice accident on October 28.

Before the game at Motorpoint Arena, players from both the Panthers and Manchester Storm stood united at center ice in a show of solidarity. Fans expressed their respect by donning No. 47 jerseys and leaving flowers, wreaths, jerseys, team scarves and personal notes at the arena.

Announcer Stef Litchfield honored Johnson by stating that he will forever be remembered as our No. 47". He lauded him not just as an exceptional hockey player but also as an exemplary teammate and extraordinary individual who will be profoundly missed.

To commemorate Johnson’s memory, Panther players sported black jerseys inscribed with “47 Adam Johnson” above their logo while Storm players wore white jerseys bearing number 47.

NATWEST CEO Falls: ICO Rules Against Dame Alison Rose, NO More Actions Planned

28 October 2023 — The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) has ruled against former NatWest CEO, Dame Alison Rose. She was found to have breached data laws in her dealings with Brexit leader Nigel Farage. However, since Rose has already stepped down from her role, the ICO plans no further action.

Rose twice broke data laws by sharing the bank’s decision to debank Farage with a reporter. She revealed sensitive personal financial details about Farage and gave misleading information about why his account was closed.

According to the ICO report, these actions violated Farage’s rights. But as Rose has resigned and NatWest is conducting its own investigation, the ICO doesn’t plan any additional regulatory action at this time.

Despite potential hefty payouts from NatWest in coming years, critics believe it would be inappropriate to reward Rose with a large sum due to her violations of Financial Conduct Authority code and data laws.

NO RELIEF: Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Unyielding Stance on High Taxes

02 October 2023 — Chancellor Jeremy Hunt will address the record-breaking taxation rates burdening families and businesses in his speech today. Despite the unprecedented tax hike during this peaceful Parliament, he offers no respite. He strongly believes that promising a tax cut would undermine his goal of controlling inflation.

Hunt’s comments reflect a preference for substantial state support and an economic theory that individual expenditure fuels inflation. However, he neglects to recognize that government spending doesn’t have the same impact. In an attempt to distinguish his Conservative Party from the opposing Labour Party, who also resist tax cuts, Hunt professes belief in reducing taxes but doesn’t anticipate actual reductions.

Despite caution from the Institute of Fiscal Studies about high-tax systems becoming entrenched due to governmental choices, Hunt disagrees. He maintains that this shift isn’t inevitable with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ready to make “tough calls.” Regarding potential future tax cuts, Hunt implies efficient government spending and hard decisions are vital for corporate growth.

Chris PACKHAM’S RADICAL Call to Break the Law: Is It Justified or a Threat to Democracy?

23 September 2023 — In his most recent show, “Is It Time To Break The Law?”, seasoned BBC presenter Chris Packham hinted that legal protests might not be enough for environmental causes. On Channel 4, Packham suggested that law-breaking could potentially be a necessary step to save our planet.

Known for his wildlife programs and involvement in left-wing climate marches like Extinction Rebellion (XR), Packham is currently rallying support for a “Restore Nature Now” demonstration. This protest is scheduled later this month outside the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) headquarters in London.

The provocative comments made by the Springwatch host on public broadcaster Channel 4 have ignited considerable controversy. Critics contend that endorsing illegal activities erodes democratic procedures and establishes a perilous precedent.

McConnell’s Health SCARE: Capitol Physician CONFIRMS No Stroke or Seizure

05 September 2023 — Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell’s recent health concerns are not related to a stroke or seizure. This assurance comes from a letter penned by Capitol physician Brian P. Monahan, shared by McConnell’s office as the Senate reconvenes post-summer break.

In the past month, McConnell had two instances of freezing up during press conferences, sparking questions about his health. However, Monahan confirmed that there is no proof of McConnell suffering from a seizure disorder or experiencing a stroke or movement disorder like Parkinson’s disease.

The evaluations encompassed several medical assessments such as brain MRI imaging and consultations with neurologists for an extensive neurological assessment. These tests were conducted after McConnell fell and sustained a concussion earlier this year but has since been given the all-clear to proceed with his regular schedule.

Despite these episodes stirring unease among Republican senators and prompting speculation about McConnell’s capacity to stay on as leader, no alterations in treatment protocols are suggested. In other news, COVID-19 cases appear to be on the rise heading into fall with First Lady Jill Biden testing positive over the weekend.