Zohran Mamdani and former Governor Andrew Cuomo are locked in a tight contest as the Democratic primary nears, with supporters on both sides hoping for an upset. The showdown pits a three-term state assemblyman against a political dynasty in one of the nation’s most-watched races.
As reported by Daily Mail, Mamdani has vaulted ahead in the Democratic primary race on Polymarket, pulling even with or overtaking Cuomo just one day before voters head to the polls.
Market indicators show Mamdani with a 61 percent chance of winning, marking a dramatic reversal from late May, when Cuomo held a 91 percent probability. That shift in backing comes amid growing enthusiasm for progressive policies and frustration with Albany’s status quo. Observers point to Mamdani’s rapid rise as evidence of changing priorities among Democratic voters in the city.
Predictions from Polymarket gave Cuomo a near-certain victory only weeks ago, reflecting his name recognition and three-term governorship. Those odds plummeted as Mamdani gained endorsements and media attention across diverse boroughs.
On Monday, betting markets showed Mamdani as the favorite, demonstrating how quickly sentiment can swing in a ranked-choice system. Analysts attribute the shift to voter concerns over housing affordability and police reform.
The sudden turnaround highlights the volatility of political betting markets and suggests that grassroots energy can outweigh establishment ties when an electorate feels underserved.
Before entering politics, Mamdani pursued a rap career under the moniker Mr. Cardamom, releasing music videos that have resurfaced online. In one clip, he performs shirtless, showcasing his early ambitions and artistic flair.
In 2019, he announced on social media, “I’ll be forever spicy, but I’m taking a break from being a spice to answer the question of what happens when a B-list rapper runs for office.” That candid statement captured attention and set the stage for his shift to public service.
His transition from music to politics underscores a personal journey rooted in community organizing and advocacy, reflecting a broader trend of nontraditional candidates reshaping local and national contests.
Mamdani’s platform calls for rent freezes, a free city bus service, universal childcare and city-subsidized grocery stores, funded by higher taxes on the wealthy. Those sweeping proposals have drawn both praise from progressives and skepticism from centrist Democrats.
He has secured endorsements from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders, bolstering his progressive credentials. Their backing signals a cohesive effort among the party’s left wing to advance transformative policies at the municipal level.
Critics, however, accuse him of alienating Jewish voters with pro-Palestinian rhetoric. “When someone spends years relentlessly targeting the world’s only Jewish state through legislation, boycotts and protests — while remaining silent on the abuses of regimes like Iran, China or Russia — it’s not principled criticism, it’s antisemitism, plain and simple,” Sam Berger, a Jewish Democrat, said.
Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old assemblyman born in Uganda and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, would become New York City’s first Muslim and first Indian-American mayor if elected. His rapid ascent poses a threat to Cuomo’s bid for political redemption after the former governor resigned amid a sexual harassment scandal.
Despite his surge, Mamdani must navigate a voter base still wary of drastic change and win over the roughly 24 percent of residents spending half their income on rent. He needs support from state lawmakers and Governor Kathy Hochul to implement his plans, yet many have already dismissed his tax proposals as unrealistic.
The Democratic primary takes place tomorrow, and the winner will face independent incumbent Eric Adams, who is not on the Democratic ballot, and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa. The contest’s outcome will shape whether New York City embraces Mamdani’s bold vision or opts for more traditional leadership next fall.
Stephanie Hockridge and her husband, fintech founder Nathan Reis, have watched a once-bright reputation shatter amid dramatic trial proceedings. Once celebrated for her Emmy-nominated journalism, Hockridge now faces federal prison time.
As reported by the Daily Mail, Stephanie Hockridge was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with Paycheck Protection Program loans. The verdict, delivered Friday in federal court, could carry a sentence of up to 20 years.
The 42-year-old former KNXV-TV anchor pleaded not guilty to all charges, yet jurors found her guilty of orchestrating a sweeping Covid relief fraud. Hockridge was acquitted on four wire fraud counts related to the same scheme. Her sentencing is slated for October 10 in Phoenix.
A federal jury reached its verdict after a two-week trial that laid bare the couple’s alleged scheme. Prosecutors said Hockridge and Reis launched Blueacorn in April 2020, promising to help small businesses navigate federal relief funds. While she faced acquittal on most counts, the single conspiracy conviction now defines her legal fate.
In court filings, prosecutors described how Blueacorn rapidly processed thousands of PPP applications with minimal oversight. “This was not about helping small businesses,” a federal official told jurors, characterizing the operation as a calculated effort to siphon emergency aid. The government said Hockridge leveraged her media fame to attract high-dollar clients.
Throughout the trial, Hockridge and her legal team maintained that she acted in good faith. Reis, who also pleaded not guilty, echoed that they believed they were guiding legitimate borrowers through an unprecedented crisis. Their attorneys argued that any missteps reflected the chaotic rollout of the PPP program, not intentional fraud.
Photographic evidence played a key role in swaying jurors, including an image of Hockridge in a marble bathtub clutching bundles of $100 bills. The prosecution also played a video shot at a luxury beachfront apartment in Puerto Rico, underscoring the couple’s lavish spending. Those scenes contrasted starkly with the financial struggles faced by genuine small businesses.
The couple’s relocation to Puerto Rico became a focal point, highlighting their efforts to minimize tax liabilities on overseas investment. Prosecutors asserted that the beachfront high-rise served as both a getaway and a symbol of ill-gotten gains. Defense attorneys countered that the move was a legal tax strategy unrelated to the PPP loans.
A congressional subcommittee report revealed Blueacorn processed over $12.5 billion in loans while disbursing $300 million in processing fees to owners, including Hockridge. The firm allocated less than 1 percent of revenue—just $8.6 million—to detect and prevent fraud. Lawmakers have cited those figures as evidence of systemic weaknesses in emergency aid oversight.
Jurors reviewed internal Blueacorn communications that referred to a clandestine “VIPPP” list, fast-tracking lucrative applications past standard verification steps. Staff messages urged employees to “push through” questionable loan requests, dismissing warnings with blunt language. Those directives illustrated a corporate culture prioritizing profit over honesty.
Court documents exposed fabricated claims in dozens of applications, including one stating Reis served in the military and another of minority-business status—both government checks later disproved. Prosecutors said the couple submitted false payroll records, tax returns and bank statements to satisfy SBA requirements. The evidence painted a picture of intentional deception at every turn.
Further testimony detailed how Hockridge and Reis charged illegal “success fees” in violation of Small Business Administration rules. They allegedly struck kickback agreements with certain banks in exchange for processing guarantees. The indictment described a web of interstate wire transfers used to obfuscate the origin of funds.
Stephanie Hockridge, 42, and her husband, Nathan Reis, 46, stand convicted in a federal fraud scheme that exploited the Paycheck Protection Program during Covid-19. Their Scottsdale-based fintech firm, Blueacorn, allegedly processed billions in PPP loans under false pretenses. Prosecutors say the couple capitalized on an emergency fund meant to save jobs.
Hockridge faces up to 20 years behind bars when she is sentenced on October 10 in Phoenix, while Reis will answer similar charges at his August trial. B
oth have indicated plans to appeal the verdicts, arguing the chaotic nature of pandemic relief created honest misunderstandings. Outside court, supporters have rallied, framing the case as a cautionary tale of bureaucratic mismanagement.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor has ignited a fierce debate within the Supreme Court, launching a scathing criticism against her conservative colleagues over a controversial deportation policy that has Washington's attention focused squarely on the nation's highest court.
According to Newsweek, the Supreme Court's conservative majority handed the Trump administration a significant victory on Monday by allowing the deportation of individuals to third countries, prompting a forceful 19-page dissent from the liberal justices.
The 6-3 ruling has exposed deep divisions within the court, with Sotomayor, joined by Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, condemning what they view as an unprecedented overreach of judicial authority that could put thousands of lives at risk.
The ruling comes in the wake of a May incident where eight migrants from various countries, including Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cuba, were nearly deported to South Sudan despite existing legal protections. The attempted deportation violated a standing order from U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy.
The migrants were ultimately diverted to a U.S. naval base in Djibouti, where they were housed in challenging conditions while their legal status remained in limbo. This incident highlighted the growing tension between the administration's aggressive deportation policies and judicial oversight.
Department of Homeland Security assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin defended the Supreme Court's decision, characterizing it as a victory for national security. She emphasized the administration's commitment to removing what she termed "criminal illegal aliens" from American soil.
The conservative majority's decision came without detailed explanation, a move that has drawn criticism from legal experts and immigration advocates. The ruling effectively suspends a lower court order that had required migrants to have an opportunity to challenge their removal to third countries.
In her powerful dissent, Justice Sotomayor accused the government of acting "unconstrained by law," warning that the decision could expose vulnerable individuals to severe risks. She emphasized the potential consequences of allowing deportations without proper legal safeguards.
The Trump administration has increasingly relied on agreements with countries like Panama and Costa Rica to facilitate deportations, particularly when migrants' home countries refuse to accept them. This strategy has raised concerns about the safety and human rights implications of third-country deportations.
DHS officials maintain that the policy is necessary for maintaining border security and public safety. McLaughlin issued a strongly worded statement defending the administration's position, emphasizing the criminal backgrounds of some deportees.
Judge Murphy's original ruling had sought to establish important protections for migrants, requiring them to have a meaningful opportunity to present their cases. The judge specifically cited the risks of sending people to countries experiencing civil unrest and violence.
The case has drawn parallels to other recent immigration disputes, including a notable instance involving a gay Guatemalan man who was wrongly deported to Mexico and subsequently faced severe persecution.
This Supreme Court ruling represents a significant shift in immigration enforcement capabilities, giving the administration broader authority to implement its deportation policies. The decision adds to a growing list of cases where the conservative majority has supported the administration's immigration agenda.
The ruling's immediate impact will affect thousands of migrants currently in deportation proceedings, potentially expediting their removal to third countries. Legal advocates are scrambling to understand the full implications of this decision and develop new strategies to protect vulnerable immigrants.
These developments signal an increasingly complex battle over immigration policy, with the Supreme Court's conservative majority showing strong support for expanded executive authority in deportation matters.
Steve Bannon has launched an unprecedented assault on Fox News following a private lunch with President Donald Trump, suggesting the network may be secretly working as an agent of foreign interests in their coverage of the Israel-Iran conflict.
According to the Daily Mail, Bannon called for a thorough investigation into Fox News under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) while dismissing the network's influence, claiming their audience consists mainly of "geriatrics" over 70 years old.
The escalation comes after Bannon, Trump's former chief White House strategist, met with the president for lunch on Thursday ahead of U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend. During this meeting, Bannon reportedly argued against American involvement in Israel's conflict with Iran.
Bannon took direct aim at the Murdoch family, suggesting they prioritize foreign interests over American ones. His comments reflect growing tensions between Trump-aligned conservatives and mainstream media outlets over coverage of Middle East policy. The former presidential advisor called for an investigation into whether Fox News should register as a foreign agent under FARA regulations.
On his War Room show Monday, Bannon intensified his criticism, stating, "I think we need to see if they represent a foreign government as an agent." He questioned the network's motives, asking "What are they pushing on the American people? Where'd this information come from?"
While acknowledging Iran should not obtain nuclear weapons, Bannon insisted there were alternatives to military action, declaring "there are many paths to do that" that don't involve "kinetic warfare." His statements came as he attempted to distance himself from the network's hawkish stance on Middle East intervention.
Despite Bannon's vocal opposition, Trump proceeded with significant military strikes against Iran, deploying six 30,000-pound "bunker buster" bombs and 30 Tomahawk missiles to destroy nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz and Esfahan. The president characterized the operation as a "spectacular military success."
In an address to the nation, Trump claimed Iran's nuclear enrichment capabilities had been "completely and totally obliterated." He also issued stern warnings about potential future strikes if peace was not achieved, showing his resolve to take military action despite counsel from close allies like Bannon.
Bannon had earlier predicted on his podcast that such military action could trigger "World War III," stating "anyone that's telling you that the Third World War is not here absolutely does not understand the development and evolution of kinetic energy."
Following the U.S. attack, Iran launched retaliatory strikes targeting the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, America's largest military installation in the Middle East. However, Trump claimed no Americans were harmed due to advance warning allowing for evacuation.
The president took to Truth Social to taunt Iran's "very weak response" while simultaneously calling for peace in the region. He urged both Iran and Israel to work toward "Peace and Harmony in the Region," suggesting a potential diplomatic resolution.
World leaders quickly condemned Iran's retaliatory strikes and expressed support for Qatar, which has not ruled out its own response to Iranian aggression. The international community remains watchful as regional tensions continue to simmer.
In a surprising turn of events, Steve Bannon's warnings about escalating conflict have been overshadowed by diplomatic breakthroughs in the Middle East. His unprecedented attack on Fox News has highlighted growing divisions within conservative media over foreign policy approaches.
The ceasefire agreement announced by President Trump marks a potential end to what he called "the 12-day war," though neither Iran nor Israel has officially confirmed the deal. This development comes after two weeks of intense military exchanges between the nations.
As attention turns to implementing the ceasefire, Bannon's accusations against Fox News underscore broader debates about media independence and foreign influence in American foreign policy. The impact of these discussions on future U.S. military decisions remains to be seen.
A surprising shift in Washington's political landscape emerged as Brett McGurk, a former Biden National Security Council Coordinator, delivered unexpected praise for President Donald Trump's handling of the recent Iran-Israel crisis.
According to The Daily Caller, McGurk appeared on CNN's "Anderson Cooper 360" where he gave "extremely high marks" to Trump and his National Security team for their management of the escalating situation between Iran and Israel. The former Obama official's endorsement comes as Trump announced a "total ceasefire" agreement between the warring nations.
The development follows a series of intense military exchanges that began on June 12 when Israel launched preemptive strikes against Iran, targeting their nuclear weapons program sites and resulting in the deaths of several top military officials. This action prompted concerns about potential U.S. involvement and led to Trump issuing stern warnings to Iran about possible American intervention.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt had initially indicated that Trump would take two weeks to decide on U.S. involvement in the conflict. However, events accelerated rapidly when Trump announced successful strikes against three Iranian nuclear sites on his Truth Social platform.
McGurk revealed that extensive backchannel diplomacy had preceded the U.S. military action against Iran. The former official also noted that European allies were prepared to reinstate international sanctions against Iran if necessary, with a deadline set for October.
The ceasefire announcement came after Iran launched a retaliatory strike against the Al Udeid U.S. Air Base in Qatar, though Trump acknowledged and expressed gratitude for Iran's advance warning, which resulted in zero American casualties. This diplomatic gesture marked a significant turning point in the crisis.
The exchange of military strikes between the nations demonstrated the effectiveness of regional defense systems. McGurk highlighted that most Iranian missiles were successfully intercepted by both Qatari and U.S. defense systems.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced their military operations would continue until 4 a.m., though the Israel Defense Forces reported missile launch sirens after the deadline. The choreographed nature of Iran's response suggested a calculated approach to de-escalation.
The successful intervention by U.S. forces and the subsequent diplomatic negotiations showcased the administration's ability to balance military strength with diplomatic finesse. This approach earned praise from both supporters and previous critics of Trump's foreign policy.
McGurk emphasized the potential for broader diplomatic progress, noting ongoing discussions regarding the situation in Gaza. The presence of Hamas delegations in Cairo suggested a possible breakthrough in multiple regional conflicts.
The former Obama official expressed optimism about the current situation, stating it represented "about the best place we can be." He stressed the importance of following through with diplomatic initiatives to maintain the progress achieved.
The unexpected alliance between Trump's approach and Obama-era officials' approval has created a unique moment of bipartisan agreement on foreign policy. This development could potentially influence future diplomatic efforts in the Middle East and reshape political dynamics in Washington.
The successful negotiation of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran represents a significant diplomatic victory for the Trump administration, earning praise from unexpected quarters, including former Obama official Brett McGurk. The resolution of this crisis through a combination of military deterrence and diplomatic channels has set a new precedent for handling regional conflicts.
European allies remain poised to enforce sanctions if necessary, while diplomatic channels continue to explore opportunities for peace in Gaza. The involvement of various regional players and the successful coordination of defense systems demonstrated the effectiveness of multilateral approaches to conflict resolution.
The surprising endorsement from McGurk, coupled with the successful implementation of the ceasefire, suggests a potential shift in how future Middle Eastern conflicts might be addressed. This development could lead to more bipartisan support for decisive yet measured responses to international crises.
California insiders are buzzing over a familiar name cropping up in talks of the state’s next top office. Kamala Harris’s potential entry into the gubernatorial contest has sparked both excitement and skepticism across party lines.
According to Breitbart News, the former vice president is seriously weighing a bid for governor of California, though no final decision has been made.
Sources close to Harris say she’s given herself a self-imposed deadline at the end of summer to decide whether to launch a campaign. Supporters argue her national profile and fundraising prowess could reshape the race, while skeptics question whether she can navigate a sprawling primary field.
Insiders report Harris “hasn’t made a final decision yet and is still considering all her options,” according to the outlet. That uncertainty has given her team the urgency to weigh pros and cons before the self-imposed deadline.
One source added that talks of her candidacy have “given her a renewed sense of excitement,” noting “a glimmer in her eyes” when discussing public service. These comments suggest Harris views a potential campaign as more than just another run for office.
Another confidant cautioned against reading too much into early chatter, insisting some advisers have “pushed back on the idea” that she is “inclined to enter the contest.” That pushback highlights internal debate over her next political move.
Among Democratic activists, Harris’s possible bid has drawn applause for her proven fundraising network. Many believe she can quickly outpace opponents in early money and endorsements.
Conversely, some party strategists worry her national ambitions could overshadow local issues. They argue California voters may prefer candidates with deeper state experience or fresh perspectives over a high-profile national figure.
Critics also note the crowded Democratic field already includes figures like former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, raising concerns about vote splitting and potential runoff complications.
A February survey by Emerson College Polling, Inside California Politics, and The Hill placed Harris at 57 percent support among Democratic primary voters. That lead dwarfed former Rep. Katie Porter’s nine percent and Villaraigosa’s four percent.
California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis matched Villaraigosa at four percent in the same poll, while Xavier Becerra trailed further behind. These numbers suggest Harris’s name recognition gives her a substantial early edge.
However, pollsters caution that early surveys often shift once campaigns launch and candidates begin advertising. Voter preferences can change significantly once debates and primary campaigns intensify.
Should Harris decide to enter the race, her Senate term would overlap with a gubernatorial run, prompting coordination with state officials on campaign logistics. California’s primary is scheduled for March 2026, with the general election in November.
A formal announcement before her end-of-summer deadline would allow Harris ample time to build a statewide campaign infrastructure, secure endorsements, and finalize her platform on issues like housing, climate and public safety.
Kamala Harris, former vice president and U.S. senator, is weighing a run for California governor, with an end-of-summer decision looming. She’s drawn support for her fundraising strengths but faces questions over her state experience and a crowded Democratic field. Her campaign calculus will hinge on whether advisers’ optimism outweighs internal doubts and if early polls sustain her front-runner status. Should she move forward, Harris must navigate primary deadlines, build a campaign team, and present a clear agenda to voters.
Fans worldwide are reflecting on the guitar wizardry and songwriting that defined an era alongside Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke. They’re revisiting the riffs and melodies that turned Bad Company into a ’70s rock staple.
According to The Daily Mail, his passing at the age of 81 sent shockwaves through the music community. Ralphs was best known as the co-founder and lead guitarist of Bad Company.
Ralphs had last taken the stage with Bad Company in October 2016 before suffering a stroke the following month. He is survived by his wife, Susie Chavasse, two children and three step-children, according to a statement on the band’s official website.
Bad Company was formed in 1973 when members of Free, Mott the Hoople, and King Crimson joined forces. Their 1974 self-titled debut album featured hits such as “Can’t Get Enough” and “Movin’ On,” propelling the record to number three on the U.K. albums chart.
The album went five times platinum in the U.S., cementing Bad Company’s reputation for straightforward, hard-rock anthems. Their follow-up, Straight Shooter, and the third release, Run With The Pack, both reached the top five in album charts on both sides of the Atlantic.
Ralphs’s distinctive style—blending melody with grit—became a blueprint for countless guitarists. Songs like “Ready For Love” and the title track “Bad Company” showcased his ability to craft riffs that were both catchy and powerful.
Singer Paul Rodgers paid heartfelt tribute, saying, “Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground. He has left us with exceptional songs and memories.” He recalled their last conversation, noting they shared “a laugh” days before Ralphs’s death.
Drummer Simon Kirke reflected on their decades-long partnership: “He was a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter, and an exceptional guitarist. We will miss him deeply.” Kirke revealed on the Bob Lefsetz Podcast in 2023 that Ralphs’s stroke had left him paralyzed on his left side.
Rodgers and Kirke both highlighted Ralphs’s humor and versatility. They described how his sharp wit and musical range kept Bad Company’s live shows vibrant, honoring the chemistry that began when they met in the early 1970s.
Before Bad Company, Ralphs played in Mott The Hoople, famous for their 1972 hit “All The Young Dudes,” written by David Bowie. His work helped shape the glam-rock sound that still resonates today.
He also contributed to King Crimson in its early lineup, adding depth with his chords and solos. His adaptability across genres made him a sought-after collaborator and influenced the development of British rock.
Younger generations of musicians cite Ralphs as a key inspiration. His approach to melody and tone can be heard in the playing of modern rock and alternative bands aiming to recapture that classic ’70s power-rock feel.
Mick Ralphs, co-founder of Bad Company, passed away at age 81 following health complications stemming from a 2016 stroke. His death leaves a void in the band’s lineup and among the fans who cherished his contributions.
The surviving members—Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke—are set to accept Bad Company’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year. That ceremony will celebrate the band’s enduring catalog and honor Ralphs’s pivotal role.
As tributes continue to pour in from across the industry, the legacy of Ralphs’s songwriting and guitar work will live on through the countless artists he inspired. His family and bandmates plan a private memorial, with public celebrations of his life expected in the coming months.