Following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, political figures made claims about the prevalence of left-wing political violence in the U.S. However, research reveals that these assertions lack factual basis. Studies and data indicate that the majority of domestic terrorism incidents and fatalities are linked to right-wing extremism, not left-wing groups. Despite the challenges in defining and quantifying political violence, the evidence consistently points to a higher frequency and lethality of right-wing extremist acts compared to those of the left.
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Russian authorities confiscated over 1.5 tons of cocaine at the port of St. Petersburg, originating from Ecuador. The illicit drugs, concealed within a container of bananas, have an estimated street value exceeding 20 billion rubles ($240 million). This significant seizure of cocaine, a frequently trafficked substance, prompted the immediate opening of a criminal investigation.
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Federal agents conducted an operation in an industrial park, drawing significant attention from news outlets, elected officials, and protestors. Rickey Hendon Jr., an activist, described the facility as having poor conditions, including individuals allegedly forced to stay for extended periods. Agents deployed tear gas and targeted protestors directly, resulting in injuries. One protestor, dressed as Captain America, was among the three individuals apprehended during the demonstration.
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In Chicago, former journalist and congressional candidate Kat Abughazaleh was thrown to the ground by an ICE agent during a protest. Video footage of the incident went viral, showing an agent grabbing and throwing Abughazaleh onto the road. Abughazaleh, who was protesting, stated that the incident was a violation of First Amendment rights and an abuse of power, adding that it pales in comparison to what immigrant communities face. This incident drew mixed reactions, with some right-wing figures expressing approval of the assault.
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Disney is facing boycott calls after suspending Jimmy Kimmel, allegedly due to pressure from the Trump-appointed FCC chairman. Progressive groups like Indivisible are urging subscribers to cancel Disney services and contact the company to express disapproval. They are also lobbying for a congressional investigation into the FCC chairman’s actions, while some members of congress are attempting to force him to testify. Furthermore, former Disney CEO Michael Eisner has criticized the company’s decision, viewing it as a result of intimidation and self-interest.
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President Trump’s announcement of designating antifa as a “major terrorist organization” has raised questions due to antifa’s decentralized nature and lack of formal structure. Experts note that the president lacks the authority to designate domestic terrorist organizations. The potential implications of this designation remain unclear, though it could potentially lead to increased scrutiny and investigations by law enforcement. However, some experts fear that such a designation may infringe on free speech rights and potentially raise Fourth Amendment concerns regarding surveillance.
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A federal judge dismissed Donald Trump’s $15 billion defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, citing violations of rules requiring a clear and concise explanation for relief. Judge Steven Merryday deemed the 85-page complaint excessive and unsuitable for presenting arguments, giving Trump 28 days to submit a revised complaint. The lawsuit, focusing on a book and articles by The New York Times reporters, accused the outlet of “defamatory and disparaging statements.” The New York Times responded by stating that the lawsuit lacks merit and is an attempt to stifle independent reporting.
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Following a massive Russian aerial assault on Ukraine, which included strikes near the Polish border, Polish and allied military aircraft were scrambled Saturday. This occurred hours after NATO intercepted three Russian jets that violated Estonian airspace, an act Estonia described as “unprecedentedly brazen.” The attacks, which included a barrage of drones, missiles, and ballistic missiles, resulted in civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. These events have prompted increased alert in Europe, including the activation of air defenses, and discussions regarding long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.
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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to urge Donald Trump to impose further sanctions on Russia during their upcoming meeting at the United Nations, expressing frustration over the slow pace of action. Zelenskyy stated that sanctions should be imposed if Vladimir Putin refuses to meet for talks or agree to a ceasefire, criticizing the tying of US sanctions to European actions as a delay. He emphasized the need for the “whole of Europe” to impose sanctions and for the US to pressure European countries, particularly those with pro-Russian governments. Zelenskyy will also seek clarification on security guarantees the US is willing to provide as part of a peace settlement.
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A recent social media video claimed a Norwood Park Starbucks employee wrote “Loser” on a drink in honor of the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, sparking online outrage and the temporary closure of the store. However, Starbucks has stated that time-stamped footage does not show any employees writing the message, suggesting it was added after the beverage was handed off. The controversy began with a post from Jacqueline Garretson, who stated a relative’s drink order was defaced. Starbucks responded by clarifying its policy on name usage in orders, stating that names, on their own, can be used.
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John Q. Hosedrinker