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REPARATIONS Showdown: Commonwealth SUMMIT Faces Intense Debate

24 October 2024 — Caribbean leaders are set to highlight reparations for the trans-Atlantic slave trade at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that compensation is not on the agenda, but tensions are rising. King Charles III, attending despite battling cancer, may face tough discussions.

The Commonwealth’s Secretary-General Patricia Scotland noted the group’s history of tackling hard issues. Reports suggest a draft statement acknowledges calls for “reparatory justice,” though British officials reportedly opposed a separate declaration on reparations. Caribbean and African leaders are pushing hard for this topic to be addressed at the summit.

Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis stressed the need for an honest dialogue about historical wrongs with Starmer. He hopes to include reparations in their final communique and engage in a frank discussion on this sensitive issue.

While some nations have apologized for their role in slavery, Britain has not formally done so despite its significant involvement in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. The U.K.’s abolition of slavery came decades after outlawing the trade itself, and some British institutions are beginning to acknowledge their past ties to slavery.

TIMING of Debate Announcement SPARKS Outrage

10 September 2024 — Rep. Meeks suggested the timing of a recent announcement, just before a major debate, is politically motivated. He criticized the selective reporting of testimony involving Kamala Harris and questioned the integrity of the process.

Meeks argued that if this were not a political game, the entire context of events should be examined. He condemned using Gold Star families for political purposes, stating their grief should not be paraded in hearings.

Host Jake Tapper noted that Gold Star families feel ignored by President Biden’s administration. Meeks acknowledged their concerns but emphasized that some claims made during hearings have been debunked, including one about a sniper having a bomber in his sights.

BRITAIN’S SHOCKING Plan: 1,700 Prisoners to be Freed Amid Crisis

09 September 2024 — Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans to release around 1,700 prisoners this week to address Britain’s prison overcrowding crisis. This move follows the government’s crackdown on anti-mass migration riots. Prison officials will stagger releases to prevent rival gang conflicts.

The government has reduced the required time behind bars for some offenders from 50% to just 40% of their sentence. Serious offenders like murderers and terrorists are excluded, but domestic abusers will be among those released. A “high proportion” of freed inmates will reportedly be domestic abusers.

Domestic abuse commissioner Nicole Jacobs warned that about a third of victims might not be informed of their attackers’ release, increasing the risk of further attacks. She emphasized the importance of ensuring victims are not overlooked in these changes and maintaining justice and fairness in the process.

UK BRACES for MORE Violence Amid Anti-Immigrant Unrest

09 August 2024 — British authorities are preparing for more unrest despite efforts to stop far-right demonstrations. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for continued vigilance after a week of anti-immigrant violence across the country.

Starmer spoke to reporters at a mosque in Solihull, highlighting ongoing emergency meetings with law enforcement. “It’s important that we don’t let up here,” he stated, stressing the importance of planning for the coming days.

Police had anticipated widespread disorder after far-right activists listed over 100 sites to target, including immigration lawyers’ offices. However, these protests did not materialize as police and counter-protesters took to the streets in large numbers.

Carrying signs like “Refugees Welcome” and chanting “Whose streets? Our streets,” counter-protesters protected asylum service centers and immigration attorneys’ offices from potential attacks. The situation remains tense as authorities stay on high alert for future disturbances.

SUNAK’S D-DAY Exit Sparks Outrage: Apologizes for TV Appearance

09 June 2024 — British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak apologized Friday for leaving D-Day commemorations in Normandy, France, early to appear on TV. His decision sparked backlash at home and added to the Conservative Party’s struggles against Keir Starmer’s Labour Party in opinion polls.

“On reflection, it was a mistake not to stay longer, and I’ve apologized for that,” Sunak told reporters. He emphasized that the focus should be on veterans rather than politics during such events.

Starmer remained in Normandy for the entire commemoration, engaging with world leaders like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Meanwhile, Sunak delegated other duties to ministers including Foreign Secretary David Cameron.

Sunak’s early departure was planned weeks before the general election call but failed to consider its negative optics. Critics argue this move undermined his leadership during a significant historical event.

COVID-19 SHOCKER: Pompeo’s Intel Suggests Chinese LAB Leak

05 May 2024 — Mike Pompeo, the former U.S. Secretary of State, has reportedly shared critical intelligence with the United Kingdom indicating a “high likelihood” that COVID-19 originated from a lab in China. This information was part of a confidential briefing to allies including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand as part of the Five Eyes alliance in early 2021.

The shared intelligence raised alarms about the lack of transparency from China and potential military ties at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. It was revealed that Chinese authorities hindered global investigations and showed signs of corruption and incompetence at critical times. Moreover, it emerged that researchers at the institute experienced illnesses just before the pandemic spread globally.

Despite these concerning revelations, UK officials led by then-Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab seemed to downplay these findings initially. Pressure from some scientists who supported theories of natural transmission played a role in this skepticism. However, two ex-officials from Trump’s administration described the evidence pointing to a lab leak as "gobsmacking.

This disclosure not only questions China’s handling of crucial data but also challenges global understanding about COVID-19’s origins, potentially reshaping international relations and public health strategies moving forward.

ISRAEL Stands Firm: CEASE-Fire Talks with Hamas HIT a Wall

05 May 2024 — The latest cease-fire talks in Cairo between Israel and Hamas have ended without any agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is standing firm against global pressure to stop military actions, calling Hamas’s demands “extreme.” Defense Minister Yoav Gallant accused Hamas of not being serious about peace and hinted that Israel might step up its military actions in Gaza soon.

During the discussions, Hamas emphasized that stopping Israeli aggression is their top priority. Despite some initial signs of progress, the situation remains tense with ongoing threats to peace efforts. Notably, Israel did not send a delegation to the recent negotiations, while Hamas consulted with intermediaries in Qatar before returning to Cairo for more talks.

In another development, Israel has shut down Al Jazeera’s local offices, accusing the network of anti-Israel incitement. This action has drawn attention from Netanyahu’s government but does not affect Al Jazeera’s operations in Gaza or the West Bank. Meanwhile, CIA chief William Burns plans to meet with regional leaders to try and mediate the conflict.

The closure of Al Jazeera’s offices and upcoming meetings by CIA chief William Burns highlight the complex dynamics at play as international actors seek ways to stabilize the region amidst ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas.

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.

BIDEN’S Press Shunning: Is Transparency at Risk?

26 April 2024 — The New York Times has voiced concerns about President Biden’s minimal interaction with major news outlets, labeling it a “troubling” evasion of accountability. The publication argues that dodging press questions could set a damaging precedent for future leaders, eroding established norms of presidential openness.

Despite assertions from POLITICO, New York Times journalists have refuted claims that their publisher questioned President Biden’s capability based on his scarce media appearances. Chief White House correspondent Peter Baker stated on X (formerly Twitter) that their objective is to provide thorough and unbiased coverage of all presidents, regardless of direct access.

President Biden’s frequent avoidance of the White House press corps has been highlighted by various media sources, including the Washington Post. His regular dependence on Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre to manage interactions with the media underscores a growing concern about accessibility and transparency within his administration.

This pattern raises questions about the effectiveness of communication strategies in the White House and whether this approach might hinder public understanding and trust in the presidency.

ISRAEL and HAMAS on the Brink of a Landmark Hostage Deal: Here’s What You Need to Know

28 February 2024 — A potential breakthrough is in sight as Israel and Hamas edge closer to a deal. This agreement could liberate about 130 hostages currently held in Gaza, offering a brief respite from the ongoing conflict, says U.S. President Joe Biden.

The deal, which could be enacted as early as next week, would bring much-needed respite to both Gaza’s battle-weary residents and the families of Israeli hostages taken during a Hamas attack on October 7th.

Under this proposed agreement, there would be a six-week cease-fire. During this time, Hamas would release up to 40 hostages — mainly civilian women, children, and older or ill captives. In exchange for this act of goodwill, Israel would release at least 300 Palestinian prisoners from their jails and permit displaced Palestinians to return home to designated areas in northern Gaza.

Moreover, aid deliveries are expected to surge during the cease-fire period with an estimated daily influx of between 300-500 trucks into Gaza — a significant leap from current figures," shared an Egyptian official involved in brokering the deal alongside U.S. and Qatari representatives

WHO Chief SOUNDS Alarm on ‘Disease X’: The Inevitable Threat We’re Not Ready For

18 February 2024 — World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, has issued a stark warning about the looming threat of “Disease X”. Speaking at the World Government Summit in Dubai, he stressed that another pandemic is not just likely — it’s inevitable.

Tedros, who accurately predicted a similar outbreak in 2018 before COVID-19 hit, criticized the world’s lack of readiness. He dismissed any doubts that his call for a global treaty by May was simply an effort to expand WHO’s influence.

Tedros labels the proposed treaty as “mission critical for humanity”. Despite some advancements in disease surveillance and vaccine production capabilities, he maintains that we are still ill-prepared for another pandemic.

Reflecting on COVID-19’s severe impact, Tedros underscored the urgency of addressing this issue. The world is still wrestling with social, economic and political aftershocks from the ongoing pandemic.

FREEBIES and SECRET Meetings: Biden’s Business Associate Spills The Beans

31 January 2024 — Eric Schwerin, a former business associate of the Biden family, made some startling admissions during a House impeachment inquiry deposition on Tuesday. He confessed to offering Joe Biden free professional services and having multiple meetings with him.

In addition to these revelations, Schwerin disclosed his appointment to the Commission for the Preservation of America’s Heritage board during Obama-Biden’s tenure. Coincidentally, Elizabeth Naftali, a Democrat donor who also purchased Hunter Biden’s art, was appointed to this same board after her acquisition.

Despite these disclosures, Schwerin maintains he had no insight into key foreign payments made to the Bidens. As former president of Rosemont Seneca Partners — a fund established by Hunter Biden that brokered profitable business deals in Russia, Ukraine, China and Romania — this claim raises eyebrows.

House investigators are now digging deeper into Schwerin’s involvement in these overseas business transactions and any knowledge or participation by Joe Biden himself. Visitor logs reveal that Schwerin stepped foot in the White House no less than 27 times during Joe Biden’s vice presidency.

NEW YEAR’S EVE Revelations: Bidens Discuss Holiday Cheer and 2024 Ambitions

01 January 2024 — During a New Year’s Eve interview with Ryan Seacrest, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden opened up about their holiday festivities and future aspirations. The chat was part of Dick Clarke’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve show, which had a friendly atmosphere but wasn’t devoid of political implications.

President Biden took the opportunity to highlight his administration’s achievements, with a special focus on job creation. He proudly pointed out the resurgence of factory jobs that were once outsourced overseas. The President claimed that since his inauguration, his administration has been responsible for creating 14 million jobs.

Furthermore, Biden expressed his desire for Americans to appreciate their nation’s current strength as we usher in the new year. He hopes this awareness will spur unity and progress as we approach 2024.

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.

ISRAEL’S Warfare Crisis: Growing Pleas for Peace Amid Rising Civilian Deaths and Humanitarian Despair

18 December 2023 — Israel is grappling with escalating global demands for a ceasefire. This comes in the wake of a string of fatal shootings, including an accidental incident that claimed the lives of three Israeli hostages. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, now into its tenth week, has raised serious questions about Israel’s military actions. Despite the U.S.'s crucial military and diplomatic backing, Israel may face increased scrutiny during Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s imminent visit.

The brutal war has led to substantial civilian losses with thousands dead and vast areas of northern Gaza reduced to rubble. An estimated 1.9 million Palestinians, constituting nearly 90% of Gaza’s population, have been forced to flee southwards within the beleaguered territory. Struggling Palestinians are surviving on scant humanitarian aid while some are seen crowding around aid trucks at Egypt’s Rafah crossing point.

Even though Israel has permitted direct aid into Gaza for the first time since the war commenced, relief workers argue it falls short considering the magnitude of destruction. The U.N agency responsible for Palestinian refugees estimates over half of Gaza’s infrastructure lies in ruins due to this conflict.

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SENATE SCANDAL: Staffer Dismissed After Shocking Footage Surfaces

17 December 2023 — A scandal has erupted in the Senate. Breitbart News recently exposed footage of a staffer, Aidan Maese-Czeropski, involved in explicit sexual acts within a Senate hearing room. This room is typically used for significant events like Supreme Court nominations.

The implicated staffer was part of Sen. Ben Cardin’s (D-MD) office and has been let go since the incident. After his dismissal, Cardin’s office released a brief statement: “We will not comment further on this personnel issue.”

In reaction to the controversy, Maese-Czeropski posted a statement on LinkedIn blaming the backlash on homophobia. He admitted that some past actions may have shown poor judgment but insisted he would never disrespect his workplace.

Maese-Czeropski also stated that any attempts to distort his actions are false and declared intentions to explore legal avenues concerning these issues.

ALARMING DHS Revelation: 670,000 Border 'Gotaways’ in FY2023 — The Shocking Truth Behind the Numbers

11 December 2023 — Fox News recently uncovered a startling revelation from officials at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They disclosed to Arizona’s congressional delegation and House and Senate Judiciary and Homeland Security committees that an astounding 670,000 known “gotaways” slipped through the border in FY2023.

In addition to this alarming figure, lawmakers were made aware of a daily influx of approximately 5,000 illegal immigrants into the U.S. These individuals are handed off to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that aid them in reaching their final destinations. This rate could equate to nearly 1.8 million illegal migrants entering the country each year.

The DHS report also shed light on a record-breaking number of daily encounters by Border Patrol with migrants — over 12,000 in one day alone. This follows a record-setting year with more than 2.4 million encounters in FY23 and an unprecedented monthly high exceeding 260,000 last September.

When questioned about collaboration efforts with Mexico to control migrant flow at the southern border, DHS officials expressed concern for the “safety and security of noncitizens”. They highlighted risks these individuals often face due to dangerous travel methods like illicit train rides.

ISRAEL-HAMAS Conflict: The Rising Tensions and Shocking Russian War Crime Probes

10 December 2023 — Defense reporter Mike Brest from the Washington Examiner recently delved into the intensifying Israel-Hamas conflict. He sat down with Magazine Executive Editor Jim Antle to discuss this escalating issue, which has seen a worrying increase in casualties in Gaza.

Brest didn’t stop there; he also shed light on ongoing investigations into potential Russian war crimes in Ukraine. This new development brings an added layer of complexity to an already strained global situation.

The persistent conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with Russia’s alleged misdeeds, is stirring unease across the globe. As these situations continue to evolve, they promise to have profound impacts on international relations and worldwide stability.

URGENT: Biden DEMANDS Congress Approval for His Critical National Security Request

06 December 2023 — President Joe Biden is pushing Congress to approve his vital national security supplemental request. The White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, and National Security Council spokesman, John Kirby, are addressing inquiries concerning this issue.

The press briefing was scheduled to begin at 2:45 p.m. EST. It came after Biden’s speech at the White House Tribal Nations Summit and virtual meetings with G7 leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Biden’s urgent call for action comes amidst a packed day filled with international diplomacy and domestic affairs. Stay connected for more updates straight from the White House.

MARINE CORPS Commandant’s Sudden Hospitalization: Uncertainty and Political Turmoil Ensue

31 October 2023 — Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith was urgently hospitalized following a medical crisis on Sunday evening. The specifics of the emergency are still concealed, but USNI News suggests that Smith suffered a heart attack.

Currently, Lt. Gen. Karsten Heckl is holding the fort as acting commandant during Smith’s absence. Under normal circumstances, the assistant commandant would step in if the commandant is unable to perform his duties, but this role remains unoccupied due to political deadlock.

President Biden’s pick for assistant commandant, Lt. Gen. Christopher Mahoney, is one among over 300 nominations held up by Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s (R-AL) objection against a Department of Defense policy related to abortion services for military personnel and their dependents.

Tuberville along with other Republicans assert that the department has exceeded its jurisdiction with this policy; however, the department maintains that its intention is to guarantee equal healthcare access for all military personnel.