In a recent statement, former President Donald Trump suggested that any mentions of his name in the Epstein case files were the result of potential Democratic efforts to fabricate information. Trump made these claims during a media availability, calling the controversy a “hoax” and accusing his predecessors of manipulating the files. He also compared the situation to the unverified dossier from the 2016 election, suggesting the possibility of false information being included. Despite calls for greater transparency, the DOJ has stated there is no “client list” and that no more information would be released.
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A watchdog group founded by former Obama official Norm Eisen has filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the Department of Justice, seeking the disclosure of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. This request specifically targets any Epstein files that reference former President Donald Trump, citing reports that Trump is included in these files. The DDF is requesting any internal communications between DOJ officials regarding handling references to Trump in the Epstein case. This appeal follows growing controversy surrounding the Epstein case, including alleged attempts to protect Trump from the fallout.
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Palestinian death toll from Israeli military offensive in Gaza surpasses 60,000, and that number is truly staggering. It’s a number that represents not just statistics, but the lives of individuals – mothers, fathers, children, siblings, friends. It’s a weight that’s difficult to fully comprehend. And the reality is, even the staggering number of 60,000 might not be the full picture. The information we have suggests that there are thousands, perhaps even tens of thousands, more who have lost their lives, buried under the rubble of homes and buildings, their fates tragically unknown.
Palestinian death toll from Israeli military offensive in Gaza surpasses 60,000, a grim milestone.… Continue reading
In a recent turn of events, Trump made unfounded claims about elite Democrats involved in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, further fueling speculation. While suggesting he possesses information about these individuals, Trump has yet to order the release of related files, raising questions about his motives. This contradiction undermines his narrative that the Epstein scandal is a Democratic plot. Furthermore, Elon Musk’s endorsement of a potential pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell highlights Trump’s vulnerability concerning the case, as he may be attempting to use his position to protect himself.
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The FDA has approved lenacapavir, marketed as Yeztugo, a groundbreaking twice-yearly injection offering nearly complete protection against HIV. This capsid inhibitor, recognized as a major scientific breakthrough, has the potential to end the 44-year-long epidemic. To ensure global access, the manufacturer has entered royalty-free licensing agreements with generic drug producers and will supply the drug at no profit to countries in need, in partnership with the Global Fund. This preventative medication aims to transform HIV prevention by addressing adherence and stigma challenges associated with previous PrEP regimens.
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President Volodymyr Zelensky approved legislation on July 29th permitting Ukrainian citizens over 60 to volunteer for military service during martial law, addressing manpower shortages. This law allows those over 60 to sign one-year contracts, serving in non-combat roles if they meet medical requirements and unit commander approval. Recruits will undergo a two-month probationary period, and contracts will automatically end with the cessation of martial law. This measure, alongside lowering the draft age and offering incentives, aims to fill critical staffing gaps in technical and support units.
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Recent incidents highlight a concerning trend of Republicans misremembering the timing of significant events and presidential administrations. Senator Markwayne Mullin incorrectly asserted that Barack Obama was president during Jeffrey Epstein’s 2008 plea deal, despite readily available information to the contrary. This misstatement, made on CNN, inadvertently drew attention to Trump’s appointment of Alex Acosta, who oversaw the Epstein deal, to a Cabinet position. The instance is one of many, demonstrating an ongoing pattern of historical inaccuracies among Republican figures.
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Facing a demographic crisis, China is implementing measures to boost its declining birth rate. The government is offering parents across the country an annual subsidy of 3,600 yuan ($500) per child under three, totaling up to 10,800 yuan per child. This initiative follows local government efforts, such as payouts in Hohhot and Shenyang, and addresses the high cost of raising children in China, where expenses can reach $75,700 up to age 17. These efforts come in response to a falling population and an aging demographic, with the country recording just 9.54 million births in 2024.
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Recent reports indicate escalating international efforts to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Luxembourg hinted at recognizing a Palestinian state, potentially following France’s lead. France has also urged the EU to pressure Israel toward a two-state solution and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where airdrops of aid have begun amidst widespread famine-like conditions. The US, however, rejected a UN conference on the two-state solution, labeling it a “publicity stunt.” Furthermore, the situation in Gaza remains dire, with Israeli strikes resulting in numerous casualties.
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Pete Buttigieg suggests that Democrats should critically examine the public sector, even as they oppose Trump’s dismantling of government institutions. He acknowledges that the rapid expansion of federal programs under the Biden administration may have been a mistake, contributing to public distrust. Buttigieg believes that Democrats need to move beyond simply restoring the status quo and should instead focus on reforming government to be more efficient and accountable. This perspective aligns with the need to address the loss of trust in public institutions and prevent the reinforcement of a false choice between too much and too little government.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood