THREAD: chris christie

TRUMP’S Surge: Why Hispanic Voters Are Embracing Him

06 November 2024 — CBS News Executive Director of Elections and Surveys, Anthony Salvanto, highlighted Donald Trump’s rising support among Hispanic neighborhoods in Philadelphia. Despite Trump’s past rhetoric, many Hispanics feel he isn’t targeting them negatively. This perception is shifting some Latino voters toward Trump.

A poll revealed that two-thirds of surveyed Latinos believe Trump wasn’t referring to them when discussing immigrants. Additionally, half of foreign-born Latinos shared this sentiment. These findings suggest a growing acceptance of Trump among Hispanic communities.

While Latinos predominantly lean Democrat, Trump’s messaging on the economy resonates with many in this demographic. His approach appears to offer a sense of belonging similar to that extended to white voters. This strategy could be pivotal for his future campaigns as he continues to engage with diverse voter groups.

Harris’s SHIFTING Fracking Stance ALARMS Conservatives

10 September 2024 — Co-host John Roberts aired a clip of Bernie Sanders saying Kamala Harris is being pragmatic to win the election, despite her past views. Roberts then questioned if Harris would revert to opposing fracking if elected.

Philippe Reines responded by suggesting that Sanders’ comments reflect Harris’s current stance on fracking, even though she previously opposed it. He emphasized that candidates often change their positions based on electoral needs and context.

Reines believes Harris is aligning with President Biden’s record to gain support from undecided voters. He expressed confidence in this strategy as a winning approach for the election.

TOP FEDERAL Prosecutor Caught In Shocking Drunken HIT-And-RUN

22 August 2024 — A top federal narcotics prosecutor, Joseph Ruddy, violated ethics rules during a hit-and-run investigation last year. Ruddy, visibly intoxicated, handed his business card to Florida police officers after crashing into another vehicle and fleeing the scene. The Justice Department’s Office of Inspector General confirmed he misused his position as an assistant U.S. attorney in Tampa.

Body-camera footage from the Fourth of July incident shows Ruddy struggling to stand and slurring his words while leaning on his pickup truck for balance. Despite his condition, he presented his Justice Department credentials to officers from two jurisdictions investigating the crash. A Tampa police officer warned him that the footage would not look good when reviewed later.

The Justice Department’s report found that Ruddy engaged in conduct prejudicial to the government by driving drunk and leaving the scene of an accident. The case has been referred to the Professional Misconduct Review Unit for further action.

Although removed from several cases following inquiries about his status, Ruddy remains an assistant U.S. attorney as of Wednesday. Neither he nor his attorney has responded to requests for comment on this matter.

TRUMP’S Unwavering Support For Israel Cheered At GOP Convention

17 July 2024 — Matt Brooks, CEO of the Republican Jewish Coalition, spoke passionately at the 2024 Republican National Convention. He emphasized Trump’s strong support for Israel and criticized Biden’s foreign policy failures. “Let me hear you cheer if you support Israel!” Brooks urged, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.

Brooks contrasted the GOP’s stance with that of Democrats, claiming a pro-Israel speech would be booed at their convention. Attendees proudly displayed Israeli flags as Brooks highlighted Trump’s achievements, including moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and delivering the Abraham Accords.

The convention celebrated Trump’s formal nomination as the Republican presidential candidate alongside running mate J.D. Vance. This event followed a failed assassination attempt on Trump just days earlier, adding to the triumphalist atmosphere in Milwaukee.

Republicans aim to leverage dissatisfaction within the Jewish community over Biden’s perceived lack of support for Israel and tolerance of antisemitism on campuses and in cities. “This election is a critical moment for the American Jewish community,” Brooks stated, urging voters to continue Trump’s pro-Israel legacy and repair U.S.-Israel relations after what he described as four disastrous years under Biden.

SENATOR Menendez CONVICTED: Corruption Verdict Shocks Nation

16 July 2024 — U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez was convicted of accepting bribes and acting as a foreign agent for Egypt. Prosecutors said he abused his office to protect allies and enrich associates, including his wife.

Menendez, 70, vowed to appeal the verdict, claiming he never violated his public oath or acted as a foreign agent. He did not testify during the nine-week trial but insisted publicly that he was only doing his job as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

The conviction comes just four months before Election Day, likely ending Menendez’s chances of reelection as an independent. Prominent Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Rep. Andy Kim, have called for his resignation following the verdict.

MADURO SHOCKS With Sympathy for Trump After Assassination Attempt

15 July 2024 — Former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The shooter injured Trump and killed Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief.

Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro condemned the attack on Trump during his own campaign rally. Maduro’s comments were unusually sympathetic towards Trump, wishing him a "speedy recovery.

Maduro stated, “We have been adversaries but I wish President Trump health and a long life.” This marks a significant shift from his typical hostile rhetoric against the former U.S. president.

BIDEN’S Border Chaos: Record Crossings Spark Outrage

30 June 2024 — President Biden’s border policy is facing intense scrutiny as illegal crossings hit record highs. Critics argue that the administration’s approach has led to chaos and insecurity at the southern border. Republican lawmakers are calling for immediate action to restore order.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has deployed additional state resources to manage the surge. He stated, “The federal government’s failure leaves us no choice but to protect our own borders.” Local communities are feeling the strain, with many residents expressing concerns over safety and resources.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas defended the administration’s strategy, claiming it aims for a “humane” approach. However, many believe this leniency only encourages more illegal immigration.

With midterm elections approaching, border security remains a hot-button issue. Republicans see this as an opportunity to highlight what they view as Biden’s failed policies and push for stricter enforcement measures.

DEMOCRATIC CHAOS in New Jersey Politics: What It Means for November

18 June 2024 — The indictment of Democratic power broker George E. Norcross III on racketeering charges marks a significant blow to New Jersey’s dominant political party. State Attorney General Matt Platkin accused Norcross of orchestrating tax benefits for entities he controlled, which Norcross vehemently denied. This comes amid ongoing federal bribery charges against Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez, who has pleaded not guilty.

These legal troubles add to the turbulence in New Jersey politics just months before the November general election. Democrats are now scrambling to hold onto a U.S. Senate seat they didn’t expect to fight for, as their thin majority is already at risk. Republicans see new opportunities to gain a seat they haven’t held in over fifty years, buoyed by the chaos within the Democratic Party.

Some progressives view this upheaval as an overdue cleanup of New Jersey’s messy political landscape, long dominated by Democrats. Others draw parallels with national Republican dynamics, where establishment power has given way to populism championed by figures like former President Donald Trump. They see it as a potential shift towards restoring power to the people across the political spectrum.;

NOEM’S Presidential Dreams Shattered by Dog Debacle

29 April 2024 — Governor Kristi Noem, once seen as a likely choice for Donald Trump’s vice presidential running mate, now faces a major hurdle. In her memoir “No Going Back,” she shares a story about her aggressive dog, Cricket. The dog caused chaos on a hunting trip and even attacked a neighbor’s chickens. This incident paints an unflattering picture of chaos under her watch.

Noem describes Cricket as having an “aggressive personality” and behaving like a “trained assassin.” These words come from her own book, which was supposed to enhance her political image. Instead, it underscores significant issues of control — both over the dog and perhaps within her own home.

The situation forced Noem to declare the dog “untrainable” and dangerous. This revelation could damage her appeal among voters who prize personal responsibility and leadership skills. It casts doubt on her ability to manage more significant responsibilities in higher office roles.

This event could severely affect Noem’s future in politics, including any plans for cabinet positions or presidential aspirations in 2028. Her attempt to appear relatable in the book might instead highlight critical lapses in judgment that are vital for national leadership roles.

Denver’s MAYOR ATTACKS Republicans, Declares Service Cutbacks Amid Migrant Crisis

12 February 2024 — Mayor Mike Johnston (D-CO) has openly chastised Republican leadership for obstructing a migration deal proposed by Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY). This agreement would have permitted a large influx of migrants and allocated $5 billion for their resettlement across various cities and towns. Having already assisted 35,000 undocumented migrants, Johnston labeled the blocked deal as a “plan for shared sacrifice”.

Following the failure of this deal, Johnston declared that Denver will need to implement budget cuts to cover the costs associated with incoming migrants. He pointed fingers at Republicans for these reductions, asserting that their refusal to approve regime change will strain city budgets and services offered to newcomers. The mayor cautioned that more cutbacks are on the horizon.

The Congressional Budget Office highlighted in February that such migration policies redirect family wages and workplace investment towards Wall Street and government sectors while shifting attention away from American communities. In Denver specifically, an influx of impoverished migrants resulted in 20,000 hospital visits which led to a partial shutdown of a city hospital earlier this year.

Johnston’s announcement included service reductions at the DMV and Park & Recs departments with the aim of freeing up resources for undocumented immigrants. This decision has sparked criticism as it directly affects services available to Denver residents.

TRUMP’S EYE on Burgum: A Potential Power Player in Second Administration

21 January 2024 — Doug Burgum, the Governor of North Dakota, has recently been spotlighted by former President Trump as a potential key player for his possible second term. This news emerged following Trump’s unprecedented victory in the Iowa Caucuses.

Responding to conjecture about a potential role in Trump’s administration, Burgum, who had previously endorsed Trump just before the Iowa Caucuses said, “Well, it’s very flattering... but you know, these are all hypotheticals.”

The Governor underscored his dedication to his current position and to backing Trump’s nomination and election endeavors. He further explained that his previous campaign was motivated by concerns about the economy, energy and national security issues that America is facing.

FORMER UK Energy Minister RESIGNS: Climate Policy U-Turn Sparks Outrage

06 January 2024 — Chris Skidmore, the former energy minister of Britain, has declared his resignation from the Conservative Party and his position as a lawmaker. He attributes this decision to the government’s sudden shift away from its environmental commitments.

Skidmore, known for his strong advocacy for reducing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050, voiced disappointment over an upcoming bill. This controversial legislation promotes new North Sea oil and gas drilling which Skidmore sees as a glaring departure from the UK’s climate objectives.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is reportedly watering down several green initiatives due to 'unacceptable costs’ for ordinary citizens. Actions include pushing back a ban on new gas and diesel vehicles, scrapping an energy-efficiency regulation, and green-lighting numerous North Sea oil and gas licenses.

Skidmore is set to officially step down when Parliament reconvenes after its Christmas break next week. His exit indicates a rising wave of dissatisfaction within conservative circles over the government’s shifting environmental policies.

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.

TEXAS STRIKES Back: Governor Abbott Signs Tough Laws to Tackle Illegal Immigration

19 December 2023 — Texas Governor Greg Abbott has enacted three stringent laws aimed at halting illegal immigration. These laws, passed in two special sessions this fall, are part of a broader strategy to stem the tide of migrants from Mexico. The governor announced on Twitter that unlawful entry into Texas is now a crime with potential penalties including deportation or imprisonment.

The bill signing event in Brownsville saw the attendance of Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and National Border Patrol Council President Brandon Judd among other border officials. However, House Speaker Dade Phelan was conspicuously absent. Senate Bill 4 from the fourth special session criminalizes unauthorized entry into Texas from foreign countries.

This state legislation mirrors federal statute Title 8 of the United States Code 1325 but takes it a step further by allowing for sentences up to two decades for violators. It also includes mechanisms for deporting offenders back to their home countries and offers legal protection to local and state officials enforcing these rules. Critics claim that current federal immigration laws are not being sufficiently enforced under the present administration.

With these new measures — including funding for wall construction and harsher penalties for human smuggling — Texas is

SMITH’S Triumphant Return: Reclaims Mayoral Seat, AMO Breaks Barriers in Rhode Island, and Beshear Clinches Kentucky Governorship

08 November 2023 — Mr. Smith has successfully reclaimed his position as mayor, defeating the current office holder Kimberly Mata-Rubio. This victory marks his third term in office, having previously served from 2008 to 2010.

Rhode Island is now home to its first black congressman, Mr. Amo. Despite this historic achievement, Amo maintains that he didn’t run for recognition but to champion women’s rights and the interests of the working class.

In a nail-biting Kentucky gubernatorial race closely watched nationwide, Mr. Beshear came out on top. As the son of former Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear, he managed a slim victory over incumbent Gov. Matt Bevin by a margin of roughly 5,000 votes.

The recent U.S ballot initiative establishes individual rights relating to reproductive decisions following last year’s Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v Wade — a move that returns abortion regulation power back to individual states.

TRUMP BACKLASH: Former Arkansas Governor Booed at Florida Freedom Summit Over Anti-Trump Remarks

06 November 2023 — Asa Hutchinson, the former governor of Arkansas, was met with a chorus of boos during his speech at the Florida Freedom Summit. This strong reaction from the crowd was triggered when Hutchinson hinted that Donald Trump could potentially face a felony conviction by a jury next year.

Having served as both a federal prosecutor and representative, Hutchinson is currently not making any waves in the Republican primary race with his polling numbers flatlining at zero percent. His remarks sparked widespread disapproval among the more than 3,000 attendees present at the event.

Despite facing an unfavorable response from his audience, Hutchinson didn’t back down. He maintained that Trump’s potential legal troubles could sway independent voters’ view of the party and influence down-ticket races for Congress and Senate.

JEFFRIES’ JUDGEMENT: Praises Biden, Condemns ‘Irresponsible’ Maga Republicans

01 November 2023 — Jeffries recently commended President Biden’s leadership, emphasizing his efforts to uphold the special bond between the United States and Israel. He also underscored Biden’s commitment to Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression and his provision of humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza.

The House and Senate are ready to proceed under Biden’s guidance, Jeffries stated. However, he lambasted extreme MAGA Republicans for their alleged attempts to tie aid to Israel during its conflict. Jeffries branded this move as “irresponsible,” accusing them of political isolation.

Jeffries called for a comprehensive review of President Biden’s proposed package, citing the current perilous global climate. He criticized what he perceives as partisan games played by extreme MAGA Republicans. Jeffries characterized their actions as “unfortunate” during these challenging times.

DeSantis PROMISES to ‘Stand Firm’ Despite Haley’s SURGING Popularity

01 November 2023 — During a recent interview, Ron DeSantis spoke about the rising popularity of Nikki Haley. Even though Haley is showing strong polling numbers and clear stances on issues such as Israel and Ukraine, DeSantis remains steadfast. He stated, “I’ve been more explicit about Israel... no Gaza refugees.”

When asked about the potential impact of former Vice President Mike Pence stepping down from the race, DeSantis expressed respect for Pence’s decision. He also reiterated his commitment to stay in the competition. “I am definitely going to be among the top contenders so we’re prepared for that,” said DeSantis.

In response to questions regarding possible dips in his own polling numbers or a further surge from Haley, DeSantis was unwavering. “Polls are not what this is about,” he responded assertively.

Lastly, when asked if securing a win in Iowa was crucial for his campaign, DeSantis confidently asserted, “We’re going to secure victory in Iowa.” His determination indicates an intense competition ahead as the race progresses.