A Bay Area congressman claims a revelation from the Epstein files is imminent and could erode support for President Trump among House Republicans. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Livermore) stated that he has spoken with Republicans who expressed waning support for the president. One Republican allegedly texted that over 100 members would likely “jailbreak” if a discharge vote on the Epstein files occurred. These comments come amidst a government shutdown and a discharge petition led by GOP Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Kentucky) to force a vote on releasing the Epstein files.
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A 41-year-old woman, Cecilia Simpson, was fatally shot outside a Dallas PetSmart after an argument escalated into a physical altercation. The incident began when the suspect, Keona Zachyua Hampton, did not thank Simpson for holding the door open. The argument continued into the parking lot, where a fight ensued, and Hampton allegedly shot Simpson multiple times. Following an investigation, police arrested 22-year-old Hampton, who is now in custody. Hampton confessed to the argument and shooting, with bond not yet set.
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In a recent interview, a former ambassador asserted that Donald Trump’s willingness to wield power garnered him credibility in the Middle East. This approach, distinct from previous administrations, involved assertive actions that were perceived as decisive. The ambassador explained that this willingness to act, regardless of potential criticism, resonated with leaders in the region. Ultimately, this created a different dynamic in the area, separating him from other leaders.
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NATO allies are reportedly considering a tougher stance against Russia, discussing measures such as easing restrictions on pilots to allow them to shoot down Russian aircraft and deploying armed drones. These discussions, initiated by frontline NATO members and supported by France and Britain, come amid escalating tensions due to alleged airspace violations, drone activity, and sabotage plots. Concerns over the cost of intercepting drones and a perceived need for stronger deterrence are driving the discussions. Russia has warned that shooting down its aircraft would escalate the situation, while the EU is also preparing its own responses to the ongoing provocations.
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President Zelensky recently told journalists that if Russia attempts to seize all of eastern Ukraine, the Russian army could suffer casualties of around one million soldiers. This projection was based on the estimated losses Russia has already sustained while capturing 30% of the east. Zelensky also mentioned that former U.S. President Donald Trump has lost trust in Putin, as Putin’s actions do not align with a desire for peace. Zelensky expressed his willingness to engage in dialogue for a just peace and is open to the meeting format suggested by Trump.
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The recent U.S. government shutdown has reportedly delayed the swearing-in of Adelita Grijalva, Arizona’s newly elected representative, which Democrats allege is a political maneuver. Grijalva’s confirmation is anticipated to trigger a political scandal, as she is expected to be the crucial 218th signer of a petition seeking the release of federal files related to Jeffrey Epstein, which may contain compromising information about former President Donald Trump. Her colleagues believe Republicans are using the shutdown to stall her arrival at the Capitol, ultimately delaying the release of said files. Once sworn in, Grijalva plans to sign the petition and begin representing her constituents.
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During a White House meeting, Secretary of State Marco Rubio handed President Trump a note instructing him to approve a Truth Social post regarding a Middle East deal. The note, visible to the press, indicated that the announcement needed to be made soon. Shortly after, Trump announced the deal and its details on Truth Social. This event, which occurred amid ongoing negotiations, came weeks after Trump accidentally posted a private message on the platform.
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Federal prosecutors have asserted that reposted comments made by U.S. Justice Department officials concerning the case of Luigi Mangione, charged with assassinating UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, will not jeopardize a fair trial. The prosecutors clarified that the officials in question were not involved in the case, unaware of the judge’s warning, and have since been cautioned. They also emphasized the considerable time before a trial date as minimizing any potential influence on prospective jurors, asserting the individuals operate entirely outside the prosecution team’s scope. The judge had previously indicated that the reposts potentially violated court rules, prompting the Justice Department to explain the incidents and outline measures to prevent recurrence.
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President Donald Trump’s pursuit of the Nobel Peace Prize is reportedly met with skepticism in Europe, particularly within the Norwegian Nobel Committee. Multiple sources suggest that the committee, comprised of human rights advocates and foreign policy experts, is unlikely to favor Trump, especially considering his actions such as ordering American troops to patrol U.S. cities. Trump’s efforts to lobby for the award, including his public declarations of deserving the prize and attempts to influence the committee, are perceived as counterproductive and detrimental to his chances. Furthermore, the prize is based on actions taken in 2024 and any success in the Middle East may be for naught.
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Fuel shortages in Russia continue to worsen, leading to the implementation of gasoline sales restrictions in a fourth region, with Tyumen and Sverdlovsk joining annexed Crimea and Chelyabinsk in limiting purchases. Gas station chains in these regions have capped sales at 20-30 liters per customer, citing measures to discourage bulk purchases, though some stations are experiencing complete outages. These limitations are attributed to disruptions in fuel supplies, stemming from Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil refineries, which have taken out nearly 40% of the country’s refining capacity and caused prices to increase.
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John Q. Hosedrinker