Following a devastating flash flood in Texas, the article draws parallels to the political consequences of Governor Michael Dukakis’ response to a blizzard in 1978. It criticizes Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s climate change denial amidst a series of catastrophic weather events. The piece also lambasts Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene’s bill proposing to criminalize weather modification, dismissing it as unfounded. Furthermore, the article examines the complex relationship between Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and former President Donald Trump in light of agricultural concerns.
Read More
Despite his office’s claim that he returned from his European vacation “as fast as humanly possible,” Senator Ted Cruz could have booked earlier flights back to Texas from Athens, Greece. Flight data revealed several flight options on Friday, July 4, and Saturday, July 5, after the devastating floods hit Texas, which he ultimately missed. Witnesses saw Cruz touring the Parthenon in Athens on Saturday, more than 24 hours after the Guadalupe River burst its banks, prompting criticism from those present. While Cruz later addressed the situation on the airwaves and engaged with authorities, the timing of his return and his whereabouts during the initial response raised questions.
Read More
Amidst the catastrophic flooding that ravaged Central Texas, two young counselors at Camp Mystic, Silvana Garza Valdez and Maria Paula Zárate, emerged as heroes. They courageously protected and rescued at least 20 young campers when flash floods overwhelmed the campgrounds on July 4th. Despite the chaos, loss of power, and rising waters, they kept the girls calm and safe, even writing their names on their arms in case of separation. Their bravery has been widely recognized amidst the devastating disaster, which claimed numerous lives and resulted in hundreds of rescues across the region.
Read More
In a recent federal court filing, the IRS announced a significant shift in its interpretation of the Johnson Amendment. This change allows churches to endorse political candidates to their congregations without the risk of losing their tax-exempt status. The IRS stated that communications on matters of faith through usual channels do not violate the Johnson Amendment as properly interpreted. This filing was part of a joint motion to settle a lawsuit with the National Religious Broadcasters and two Texas churches, challenging the amendment’s constitutionality.
Read More
In Tianshui City, Gansu province, 233 children at Peixin Kindergarten suffered lead poisoning after consuming food decorated with inedible paint. Tests revealed that the steamed red date cake and sausage corn rolls contained lead levels far exceeding national safety standards. The school principal and seven others have been arrested and are under investigation for producing toxic food. Authorities are looking into how long the paint had been used, as children have reported symptoms like stomach and leg pain since March. The mayor acknowledged the incident exposed shortcomings in public food safety supervision.
Read More
Real estate investors are increasing their share of U.S. home purchases, with nearly 27% of homes sold in the first quarter of the year going to investors, the highest in at least five years. This increase reflects a broader slowdown in the housing market, as rising prices and high borrowing costs deter traditional buyers. Investors purchased 265,000 homes during this period, a modest increase from the previous year, and are able to do so by utilizing cash or existing home equity. While mom-and-pop investors dominate the market, there are signs large institutional investors are scaling back purchases.
Read More
Following the director’s comments regarding the film “Superman” being about an immigrant, the team has responded to the ensuing backlash. James Gunn emphasized the film’s message of kindness and inclusivity for all viewers. Sean Gunn defended his brother, highlighting the importance of immigrants in America, asserting that the film aligns with American values. This response was in contrast to conservative media outlets’ criticism of the film, labeling it as “Superwoke” and criticizing the film’s messaging.
Read More
The Trump administration is facing scrutiny and pushback from online conspiracy theorists regarding the Jeffrey Epstein case, particularly surrounding the existence of an “Epstein Client List.” A White House spokeswoman sparred with the media over the matter, denying the existence of such a list despite previous speculation and demands from some within the administration. Figures like Elon Musk and J.D. Vance previously fueled speculation but now find themselves in the uncomfortable position of defending Trump against these very claims, which have gained traction among right-wing circles. The administration’s current denial is seen as a loss in the narrative battle, revealing a failure to control a conspiracy once embraced.
Read More
On July 4th, eleven individuals were arrested following a “planned ambush” at an ICE facility in Alvarado, Texas. The suspects, mostly from North Texas, are accused of attempting to kill ICE corrections officers, according to law enforcement. The coordinated attack involved individuals in military-style clothing using fireworks to lure officers outside and a gunman who shot an Alvarado police officer in the neck. Ten suspects face attempted murder of a federal officer charges, while one is charged with obstruction of justice.
Read More
The Dinah Project, an all-women group of Israeli legal and gender experts, asserts in a new report that Hamas employed sexual violence as a deliberate component of its genocidal strategy during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. This conclusion is drawn from evidence including survivor testimonies and accounts from former hostages, detailing instances of attempted rape, sexual assault, and sexualized torture. The report aims to establish a legal framework for prosecuting these crimes, even where direct perpetrator identification is challenging, and comes amid previous findings by a UN mission indicating conflict-related sexual violence occurred during the attacks. The findings reflect a coordinated strategy to terrorize and dehumanize Israeli society.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker