John Ewing’s decisive victory over Republican incumbent Jean Stothert in Omaha’s mayoral race marks a significant rebuke of anti-transgender campaign tactics. Stothert’s campaign heavily focused on anti-transgender messaging, mirroring national trends, but this strategy proved ineffective against a counter-campaign highlighting the mayor’s neglect of city issues. Ewing’s win, the first for a Black mayor in Omaha, signals potential voter fatigue with culture war politics and suggests a shift in the effectiveness of anti-transgender rhetoric in swing districts. This outcome carries implications for future elections, particularly for Rep. Don Bacon’s upcoming reelection campaign, which has similarly relied on anti-trans talking points.
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Suspected sabotage caused a major power outage affecting Cannes and surrounding areas, plunging approximately 160,000 homes into darkness, including venues at the Cannes Film Festival. Investigations revealed arson at an electrical substation and damage to a pylon. Despite the disruption to screenings, the festival’s closing ceremony will proceed as scheduled thanks to a backup power system. Authorities are investigating the incident.
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Young American men are increasingly converting to Russian Orthodox Christianity, drawn to its emphasis on traditional masculinity and family values. This surge in converts, particularly noticeable in Texas, is linked to dissatisfaction with modern American culture and a perceived lack of male identity in contemporary society. The Russian Orthodox Church’s conservative stance on gender roles, family structure, and societal norms resonates with many seeking a counter-cultural alternative. This growth is amplified by online presence and outreach, contrasting with the relatively small size of the Orthodox community within the broader American religious landscape.
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Israeli soldiers systematically used Palestinians as human shields in Gaza and the West Bank, according to multiple Palestinian and Israeli testimonies, despite the military’s stated prohibition. This practice, witnessed during the 19-month conflict, involved forcing Palestinians to clear buildings and tunnels for explosives and militants, often resulting in injury or death. While the Israeli military is investigating alleged incidents, witnesses describe the practice as widespread and condoned by commanding officers, who viewed it as efficient and effective. Rights groups condemn this violation of international law, highlighting its systemic nature and moral implications.
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The Texas Senate’s recent actions regarding medical cannabis expansion are, to put it mildly, perplexing. After successfully enacting a ban on hemp-derived THC, a move seemingly at odds with the state’s previous, unanimous support for hemp legalization (HB 1325, passed 31-0 in the Senate and 140-3 in the House), they’ve now significantly curtailed the proposed expansion of the Texas Compassionate Use Program. This dramatic shift is causing considerable frustration and anger amongst many.
The proposed expansion, initially championed by House Bill 46, aimed to broaden access to medical cannabis for a wider range of conditions, including chronic pain and traumatic brain injury.… Continue reading
DNC Vice Chair David Hogg endorsed Rep. Jasmine Crockett, praising her combative political style and authenticity, amid the Democratic Party’s post-election identity crisis. This endorsement comes as Hogg faces potential removal from his position due to procedural issues surrounding his election. Crockett, known for her strong criticism of President Trump and controversial statements, is vying for a leadership role on the House Oversight Committee. Hogg’s support signals a potential shift within the Democrats towards a more confrontational approach.
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Following a mistaken traffic stop, 19-year-old undocumented college student Ximena Arias Cristobal was detained by ICE after being arrested by a Dalton, Georgia police officer who has since resigned. Dashcam footage revealed the officer wrongly identified her vehicle, leading to the dismissal of traffic charges. Arias Cristobal, who had been in ICE custody since early May, was released on bond after an immigration judge’s ruling. Both she and her father, also detained by ICE following a separate traffic stop, face ongoing deportation proceedings.
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Senator John Fetterman has publicly acknowledged the weaponization of his mental health struggles following a stroke, impacting his senatorial duties. He’s missed a significant percentage of floor votes, citing a preference for family time over what he considers performative procedural votes. Fetterman’s struggles have prompted concerns from his former chief of staff and criticism for his attendance and behavior at official events. Recent reports detail erratic behavior, including instances of repetition and anger.
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Operation Highmast, Britain’s largest naval deployment in years, has entered its next phase with the UK Carrier Strike Group’s transit through the Suez Canal and arrival in the Red Sea. The group, led by HMS Prince of Wales and including allied vessels from Canada, Norway, and Spain, will conduct joint exercises and port visits throughout the Indo-Pacific. This deployment aims to strengthen defense ties and bolster UK presence in the region, mirroring the successful CSG21 deployment. While operations will proceed with awareness of regional tensions, the Carrier Strike Group’s mission focuses on reinforcing maritime security and enhancing joint operational capabilities.
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At West Point’s commencement, President Trump asserted his election victory granted him unrestrained power to govern as he sees fit, echoing similar claims made previously. He lauded the military, taking credit for its strength while simultaneously praising the graduating cadets as the “first West Point graduates of the golden age of America.” Despite numerous court rulings against his administration’s actions, including unlawful deportations, Trump expressed confidence that judges would eventually allow him to continue his policies. His speech also featured attacks on critical race theory, transgender athletes, and diversity initiatives.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood