Comedian Perry Kurtz, a familiar face in the Los Angeles comedy scene, tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run accident on Thursday night in Tarzana, Los Angeles.
Kurtz, 73, was crossing Ventura Boulevard when he was fatally struck by a gray Honda Civic, and the driver, an 18-year-old male, has been arrested and is facing charges for felony hit-and-run causing death, as the New York Post reports.
The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. as Kurtz was on foot in the Tarzana neighborhood. The suspect, driving a gray Honda Civic, allegedly struck Kurtz at the intersection and then continued eastward without stopping, according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
First responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived on the scene shortly after the collision but were unable to save Kurtz. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed Kurtz’s identity the following morning.
The LAPD reported that the suspect’s vehicle was found abandoned near the location of the incident. The 18-year-old suspect has since been arrested and booked on charges of suspicion of felony hit-and-run causing death.
An autopsy has been scheduled to further investigate the cause of Kurtz’s death, though it is clear that the impact of the collision was fatal.
Kurtz's daughter, Zelda Velazquez, shared her grief on social media, revealing that her father was traveling between comedy gigs when the accident occurred. She expressed her heartbreak at the loss, noting how much her father loved performing and connecting with people through his comedy.
Dante Rusciolelli, Kurtz’s longtime agent and friend, also expressed his devastation over the comedian's untimely death. Rusciolelli described Kurtz as a beloved figure in the Los Angeles comedy community, with a career that spanned decades.
“Golden Artists Entertainment and myself are personally devastated by this news. Perry was not only a client, he’s been my friend since 1987. He has been a staple in the Los Angeles comedy community for decades and will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with his family,” Rusciolelli said in a statement.
Just hours before his tragic death, Kurtz performed at a comedy show in Los Angeles. A video of this final performance was posted to his Facebook account, where fans have since shared their condolences and expressed their shock at the sudden loss.
Kurtz was best known for his audition on Season 8 of America's Got Talent, where he showcased his unique comedic style. His ability to connect with audiences earned him a dedicated fan base that now mourns his passing.
The investigation into the hit-and-run is ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses. The LAPD has urged anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward.
Kurtz’s death marks a tragic end to a long and storied career in comedy. His contributions to the entertainment world will be remembered, and his loss will be felt deeply by his family, friends, and fans. As the community processes this devastating news, many are reflecting on Kurtz’s legacy. He was not only a comedian but also a father, a friend, and a cherished member of the Los Angeles comedy scene.
President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the 2024 election stunned political observers, but behind the scenes, pressure from his own party, particularly from former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, played a pivotal role.
Biden’s withdrawal has sparked tensions within the Democratic Party, following an ultimatum from Pelosi that has put a strain on the pair's 50-year friendship, as the Daily Mail reports.
On Sunday, June 21, President Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race. This unexpected decision came via a digitally signed tweet, with the White House quickly asserting that the choice was Biden's alone. However, emerging reports reveal that the president faced mounting pressure from prominent Democratic leaders, with Pelosi's intervention being particularly impactful.
Biden's health had recently come under scrutiny as he tested positive for COVID-19, leading to his isolation in Delaware with first lady Jill Biden and a select group of aides. Despite his previous insistence that he would seek re-election, Biden reportedly began drafting his withdrawal letter on Saturday night, just hours after receiving an urgent message from Pelosi.
According to four sources, Pelosi had issued a stark warning: if Biden did not step aside, she would release polling data suggesting he would struggle to defeat former President Donald Trump in a general election. Both Pelosi and the White House have denied any phone conversation took place between them, but the impact of Pelosi’s pressure is evident.
Biden and Pelosi have shared a political alliance dating back to the 1970s, a relationship characterized by mutual respect and collaboration on significant legislative initiatives. However, the recent developments have strained this once-close friendship, with both leaders now facing the repercussions of this political fallout.
In the aftermath of his withdrawal, Biden reached out to several congressional leaders, pointedly excluding Pelosi. The former House Speaker, currently promoting her memoir, has publicly denied orchestrating a campaign to force Biden out of the race. "No, I wasn’t the leader of any pressure [campaign]," Pelosi stated in a recent interview, while also expressing concern over the current rift with Biden.
Other Democratic leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, were also involved in urging Biden to step down. Schumer’s meeting with Biden in Delaware a week before the announcement has been noted as another key moment leading to Biden's decision.
The decision to withdraw has not only affected Biden politically but has also had personal ramifications within his inner circle. Jill Biden, who was reportedly worried about her husband’s dignity throughout the ordeal, has been particularly upset by the role Pelosi played in the process. There is also reported tension between Pelosi and Hunter Biden, further complicating the situation.
Biden, however, appears to be focusing on his legacy rather than dwelling on the circumstances surrounding his exit. After announcing his withdrawal, he turned his attention to promoting the "Biden Cancer Moonshot" initiative during a visit to New Orleans. Despite the ongoing political turmoil, Biden is determined to cement his legacy on his own terms.
Looking ahead, Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to be officially tapped as the Democratic Party nominee this coming week in Chicago. Biden is set to make a brief appearance at the party's convention, addressing the crowd on Monday night. The focus will likely be on unity within the party as it prepares for the upcoming election, despite the underlying tensions that have been brought to light by Biden’s withdrawal.
As Pelosi continues to promote her memoir, she reflects on her long-standing relationship with Biden, noting the kindness and thoughtfulness he has shown over the years. "He was so prayerful, kind, and thoughtful," she writes, acknowledging the depth of their connection while also grappling with the reality of their current estrangement.
In summary, President Biden's decision to exit the 2024 race, spurred by an ultimatum from Nancy Pelosi, has exposed deep divisions within the Democratic Party and tested a friendship that has endured for five decades. As Biden focuses on his legacy and Pelosi navigates the political and personal aftermath, the ripple effects of this moment will likely be felt for years to come.
Republican vice-presidential candidate JD Vance's plane was forced to make an emergency landing on Friday at Milwaukee International Airport after a malfunction with the door seal en route to Cincinnati.
The pilot identified a malfunction with the door seal on the plane carrying Trump's VP pick, leading to an emergency landing at Milwaukee International Airport, with no injuries reported, as Just the News reports.
The incident occurred on Friday afternoon as Vance was aboard a Boeing 737. According to a spokesperson for Vance, the plane’s pilot noticed the malfunction and declared an emergency, prompting the unexpected landing at Milwaukee International Airport.
After the plane safely landed, it underwent inspection and repairs. The issue was resolved swiftly, allowing the flight to resume its journey to Cincinnati. Fortunately, there were no injuries among the passengers or crew members, and the situation was handled with professionalism and care.
The plane involved in the emergency landing has a connection to the broader Trump campaign. Recently, the campaign began using a Boeing 737-800, referred to as "Trump Force Two," to transport Vance during the campaign trail. However, it remains unclear whether the specific aircraft involved in the emergency was indeed "Trump Force Two."
This incident comes on the heels of increasing scrutiny of Boeing planes, particularly after several high-profile cases of malfunctions went viral on social media. One such video from January captured a frightening moment when a Boeing 737 Max 9 experienced a blowout of its door panel mid-flight.
Though the aircraft involved in Vance's emergency landing is not the same variant as the 737 Max 9, the incident adds to the concerns surrounding the safety of Boeing's fleet. The aviation giant has faced challenges in recent years, and every new issue only deepens the concerns of the public and industry insiders.
Interestingly, this is not the first time a plane associated with Donald Trump has encountered mechanical problems in recent days. Last Friday, a separate aircraft carrying former President Trump had to divert from its intended route to Bozeman, Montana, due to a mechanical issue. These two incidents occurring so close together have raised eyebrows and fueled further discussion about the reliability of the planes being used in the campaign.
The nature of the malfunction on Vance's plane was not as severe as some of the more dramatic failures seen in recent Boeing incidents. Nonetheless, the decision to declare an emergency and land the plane underscores the seriousness with which the pilot and crew treated the situation. Safety remained the top priority, ensuring that all on board were unharmed and the problem was addressed before continuing the flight.
For Vance, the emergency landing represents a minor but significant disruption in his campaign schedule. The Ohio senator has been an integral part of the Republican ticket, and any incident, however small, can attract unwanted attention during a closely watched election season.
Given the current political climate, even minor events can be magnified, leading to potential distractions from the campaign's primary messaging. However, Vance's campaign has been quick to assure the public that the candidate remains focused and undeterred by the incident.
The use of "Trump Force Two" and its connection to these recent aviation issues may continue to be a point of discussion in the coming days. As the campaign presses forward, ensuring the safety and reliability of the transportation used by high-profile figures like Vance will be of paramount importance.
As the campaign moves on from this event, it is likely that the focus will return to the key issues and messages that Vance and his running mate seek to communicate to voters. The incident, while notable, has been resolved, and the campaign trail continues.
New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez has officially withdrawn his candidacy for the U.S. Senate, signaling the end of his independent reelection campaign.
Menendez's decision to end his bid comes shortly after his July conviction on corruption charges and his Aug. 20 resignation announcement, as Just the News reports.
Menendez’s withdrawal was confirmed through a letter he submitted to his state's division of elections. In the letter, the senator expressed his intention to have his name removed from the ballot for the upcoming November election.
The conviction of Menendez on federal corruption charges in July marked a significant turning point in his political career. The charges, which stemmed from allegations of accepting bribes in exchange for political favors, ultimately led to his decision to step down from his Senate seat. On Aug. 20, Menendez announced his resignation, ending his lengthy tenure in the U.S. Senate.
Initially, Menendez had hoped to run as an independent in the upcoming election. However, this plan hinged largely on the possibility he would be exonerated in court. With his conviction standing, Menendez opted to withdraw from the race altogether.
In his letter to the division of elections, Menendez stated, "Please be advised that as an Independent candidate for the U.S. Senate in this November’s election I am advising you that I wish to have my name withdrawn from the ballot."
The announcement of Menendez's decision was reported on Friday, marking a swift conclusion to his independent reelection efforts. His letter to the division of elections was brief but clear in its intent to remove his name from the ballot. This decision reflects the serious legal and political challenges Menendez faced following his conviction.
As an independent candidate, Menendez would have needed to secure a significant portion of the vote in what is expected to be a highly competitive race. The cloud of his conviction, however, likely diminished his chances of success.
With Menendez's withdrawal, the focus now shifts to the remaining candidates in the race for New Jersey's Senate seat. The November election is expected to draw significant attention as both major parties vie for control of the seat.
Menendez's decision to withdraw from the race will undoubtedly have a ripple effect on New Jersey politics. His departure from the Senate leaves a vacancy that will be hotly contested in the upcoming election. The race is expected to draw national attention, given the significance of New Jersey's Senate seat in the broader political landscape.
For Menendez, this marks the end of a tumultuous chapter in his political career. Once a prominent figure in New Jersey politics, his legacy has been tarnished by the corruption charges and subsequent conviction. His decision to withdraw from the race is a clear acknowledgment of the impact these events have had on his political standing.
As New Jersey voters prepare to head to the polls in November, the absence of Menendez's name on the ballot will be a notable change. The race will now proceed without the shadow of his legal troubles, allowing the remaining candidates to focus on their campaigns and the issues that matter most to voters.
In conclusion, the withdrawal of Sen. Bob Menendez from the New Jersey Senate race marks the end of his independent reelection bid. Following his conviction on corruption charges in July and his resignation in August, Menendez opted to remove his name from the ballot, acknowledging the impact of his legal troubles on his political future. The focus now shifts to the remaining candidates in the race, as New Jersey prepares for what promises to be a closely watched Senate election.
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is facing an uphill battle in his campaign, with dwindling support and a lack of ballot access in several key states.
Kennedy is reportedly exploring potential alliances with former President Donald Trump or Vice President Kamala Harris as a way to remain relevant in the political landscape, as Just the News reports, and his decision could prove devastating to one of the major party's prospects.
Kennedy, whose campaign has encountered several setbacks, has seen his support plummet since President Joe Biden withdrew from the Democratic ticket in favor of Harris.
Initially polling at 8.7% with Biden in the race, Kennedy’s numbers have since dropped to an average of 5.5% with Harris as the Democratic frontrunner. In comparison, Harris and Trump are locked in a tight race, with Harris leading at 45.6% and Trump close behind at 44.6%.
The Kennedy campaign’s struggles are compounded by difficulties in securing ballot access. While he is on the ballot in key states such as Texas, Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Wisconsin, Kennedy will not appear on the ballot in a majority of states, including electoral heavyweights like New York and California. A recent ruling by a New York state court judge has further hindered his chances by blocking his name from appearing on the New York ballot.
Kennedy’s campaign has been dogged by rumors of a potential deal with either the Trump or Harris campaigns in exchange for a role in their administration. Reports suggest that Kennedy is seeking a cabinet position to maintain influence in policymaking, but neither campaign has shown interest in such a partnership. Despite these rumors, Kennedy’s running mate Nicole Shanahan has denied any ongoing negotiations with the Harris campaign, referring to them as a “lost cause.”
On the other hand, Democratic National Committee spokesperson Matt Corridoni dismissed any potential talks with Kennedy, labeling him a “MAGA-funded fringe candidate” and criticizing his perceived willingness to collaborate with Trump.
Amid the swirling rumors, Kennedy has publicly denied any plans to endorse Harris. In a post on X, he criticized the Democratic leadership, stating, “I have no plans to endorse Kamala Harris for President. I do have a plan to defeat her.” He emphasized his long-standing efforts to fight government corruption, contrasting his record with Harris’s tenure as Vice President.
The Kennedy campaign’s strategy appears to be focused on portraying him as a unifying figure capable of bridging the gap between opposing political factions. Following a recent meeting with Trump, Kennedy’s spokesperson Stefanie Spear confirmed the discussion centered on national unity and reiterated that Kennedy is not dropping out of the race. However, leaked footage of the meeting has fueled speculation that Kennedy might be seeking a role in a potential Trump administration.
Despite these overtures, Trump’s campaign has not shied away from criticizing Kennedy. Trump’s spokesperson Steven Cheung equated Kennedy’s policy platform to that of Harris, calling him a “radical leftist” and disparaging his environmental policies as extreme.
The future of Kennedy’s campaign remains uncertain as he continues to struggle with low polling numbers and limited ballot access. His attempts to position himself as a viable alternative to the major party candidates have so far failed to gain traction. The lack of support from both Trump and Harris further complicates his efforts to secure a meaningful role in the 2024 election.
As Kennedy seeks to stay relevant, his campaign is emphasizing his pro-environment, pro-choice, and anti-war stance, arguing that these positions make him the only candidate capable of defeating Trump in a head-to-head contest. However, without broader support and a clear path to victory, his prospects look increasingly bleak.
In conclusion, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s presidential campaign is facing significant challenges, from dropping poll numbers to limited ballot access in key states. Reports of potential alliances with either the Trump or Harris campaigns have been met with skepticism, and Kennedy’s attempts to secure a role in a future administration have so far been unsuccessful. As the election approaches, Kennedy’s path forward remains uncertain, with his campaign struggling to maintain its relevance on the national stage.
The Democratic National Convention (DNC) will see an emotional tribute as first lady Jill Biden honors President Joe Biden’s decades of public service, despite her earlier dismay with those who urged her husband to step aside from the 2024 presidential race.
Mrs. Biden will use her platform at the DNC to pay tribute to her husband's legacy, though it comes amid her own sadness disappointment with those who pushed for his early exit from his re-election bid, as the Independent reports.
Scheduled from Aug. 19 to 22 in Chicago, the DNC has undergone significant changes since President Biden decided to withdraw from the 2024 race and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris. Jill Biden, who had been one of her husband's most ardent supporters, will take the stage on the convention's first night to highlight his extensive career and accomplishments.
Jill Biden’s involvement in the convention is not without a strong tinge of disappointment. Her dissatisfaction with those who encouraged the President to exit the race became evident after growing pressure followed his debate performance on June 27. As one of his fiercest advocates, Jill, along with their son Hunter Biden, believed that President Biden should continue his bid for re-election.
On July 8, Jill Biden announced her unwavering support for her husband's campaign, signaling a strong belief in his ability to serve another term. However, the pressure mounted, and ultimately, President Biden chose to step aside, a decision that was reportedly influenced by resentment towards former President Barack Obama.
Despite her initial reluctance, Jill Biden is expected to deliver a heartfelt tribute to her husband during her appearance on the first day of the convention. Her role is to underscore the legacy of Joe Biden’s 50 years in public service, ensuring that his contributions are not overshadowed by the transition to the new Democratic ticket.
Jill Biden’s speech is set to be a poignant moment at the convention. Although the specifics of her address have not been disclosed, it is clear that she intends to honor the resilience and dedication her husband has shown throughout his political career. This tribute will also serve as a thank you to the loyal supporters who stood by President Biden even as the political winds shifted.
In a handwritten note shared on X, Jill Biden expressed her gratitude to those who remained steadfast in their support. She wrote, “To those who never wavered, to those who refused to doubt, to those who always believed, my heart is full of gratitude. Thank you for the trust you put in Joe — now it’s time to put that trust in Kamala. Love, Jill.”
The Bidens’ presence in Chicago will be limited to the first day of the convention, a strategic decision to avoid overshadowing Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. This brief appearance underscores their intention to facilitate a smooth transition and emphasize unity within the Democratic Party.
Jill Biden’s participation at the DNC highlights the importance of her husband's legacy within the party, even as the focus shifts to the future under new leadership. Her tribute will likely serve as a bridge between the Biden administration’s achievements and the aspirations of the Harris-Walz ticket.
Elizabeth Alexander, Jill Biden’s communications director, remarked on her unwavering support for her family, stating, "She’s tough and of course defends her family when she needs to. Always has, always will." This sentiment reflects the first lady’s commitment to ensuring that President Biden’s contributions are recognized, even as the party moves forward.
The convention’s altered course, diverging from its original plans, speaks volumes about the rapidly changing political landscape. What was once a stage for President Biden’s re-election campaign has now become a platform for passing the torch to a new generation of Democratic leaders.
As the DNC unfolds, Jill Biden’s role will stand out not only for its emotional weight but also for the message it sends to the party and the nation. Her tribute to President Biden will be a reminder of the sacrifices and accomplishments of a leader who dedicated half a century to public service, even as he steps aside to allow new voices to emerge.
In a dramatic and unexpected turn of events, President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 election last month, following intense pressure from prominent Democratic leaders, most notably former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Biden’s decision came after receiving an ultimatum from Pelosi, signaling a deep rift in a decades-long political alliance, as the Daily Mail reports.
Biden’s announcement, made on Sunday, June 21, capped off a period of personal reflection and political isolation during a bout of COVID-19. The pressure from Pelosi and other key figures within the Democratic Party, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, ultimately swayed Biden’s decision.
The most significant factor in Biden’s decision to step aside was an ultimatum from Pelosi. According to four sources, Pelosi made it clear that she was prepared to publicly express her concerns about Biden's ability to defeat former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election. This threat was reportedly conveyed during a phone call, during which Pelosi suggested that she would reveal polling data detrimental to Biden’s prospects.
While Pelosi’s office and the White House officially denied that such a phone call took place, the sources insist that the conversation was pivotal in Biden’s decision-making process. The tension between Biden and Pelosi has only grown since the announcement, with the two not having spoken since Biden revealed his withdrawal.
During recent interviews, Pelosi has struggled to navigate questions about her role in Biden’s decision, further fueling speculation about the extent of her involvement. Despite the denials, the damage to their once-close relationship seems irreparable.
In addition to Pelosi’s ultimatum, other high-profile Democrats, including Schumer and Jeffries, had also been urging Biden to reconsider his 2024 bid. Schumer, in particular, had a direct and candid meeting with Biden in Delaware just a week before the announcement. The meeting reportedly underscored the growing concerns within the party about Biden’s electability.
Following the announcement, Biden conspicuously left Pelosi out of his communications with other Congressional leaders, signaling the depth of the breach between them. Biden’s focus now appears to be shifting toward his "Biden Cancer Moonshot" initiative, which recently saw a significant $150 million boost in research funding.
Biden’s decision not to attend the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where Vice President Kamala Harris will be formally nominated, further underscores his withdrawal from the political spotlight. Instead, Biden plans to address the convention briefly on Monday.
On a personal level, the fallout from Biden’s withdrawal has been significant. First Lady Jill Biden has reportedly expressed deep concern and dissatisfaction with how the withdrawal was managed. There is particular anger toward Pelosi, with both Jill and Hunter Biden feeling betrayed by someone they once considered a close ally.
Despite the controversy, Pelosi continues to wield considerable influence on Capitol Hill. Her ability to navigate political turmoil and maintain her power base underscores her resilience, even as she faces backlash from the Biden family and others within the Democratic Party.
Biden and Pelosi’s relationship, once marked by mutual respect and collaboration, now appears to be in tatters. The future of their political alliance remains uncertain, with Biden focusing on his post-presidency initiatives and Pelosi continuing to assert her dominance in Congress.
As the Democratic Party moves forward without Biden on the ticket, the implications of this seismic shift in leadership are yet to be fully realized. The impact of Pelosi’s ultimatum, and the broader pressure campaign from Democratic leaders, will likely be felt for years to come.
Ian Sams, a well-known figure in the Biden administration, is set to transition to Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign as a senior national spokesperson and senior adviser for rapid response.
Sams’s move comes as several key White House personnel are also shifting roles to bolster Harris’s campaign efforts, as the Washington Post reports.
Sams, who has spent the past two years with the White House, will bring his experience to Harris’s team as she navigates the challenges of the campaign trail. His role will involve defending Harris’s record, channeling her voice and style, and appearing on television to address critical issues.
Before this transition, Sams served as a spokesperson for oversight and investigations within the Biden administration. His work in this capacity has been instrumental in managing sensitive matters, particularly those requiring careful communication with the public and media.
During the 2020 presidential campaign, Sams was Harris’s national press secretary, a role that prepared him for the rapid response demands he will face in the upcoming campaign. His experience at the Department of Health and Human Services, where he contributed to the pandemic response, further solidifies his credentials in handling high-pressure situations.
Joining Sams in this move is Kristen Orthman, who will also leave the White House to join Harris’s campaign. Orthman, previously the principal deputy communications director at the White House, will assume the role of senior adviser for planning.
Orthman’s experience extends beyond her recent White House tenure. She served as communications director at the Democratic National Committee and has a history of working on significant campaigns, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s 2020 presidential run and the campaigns of Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto and Harry M. Reid.
Herbie Ziskend will take over Orthman’s former role as deputy communications director at the White House. Ziskend will work closely with Ben LaBolt, the White House communications director, to ensure that President Biden’s legacy is effectively communicated. This internal reshuffling reflects a strategic effort by both the White House and Harris’s campaign to position experienced communicators in roles where their skills can be most effectively utilized.
Kate Berner, who began advising Harris’s campaign on communications after leaving the White House in June 2023, will now take on a more significant role. Berner’s work with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris’s running mate, has been critical in shaping his public image since joining the ticket.
Berner was present with Walz in Minneapolis when Harris first contacted him to discuss the vice-presidential nomination. Her involvement in his first day on the campaign trail underscores her deep connection to the current campaign strategy.
Harris has also brought in senior advisers from President Barack Obama’s campaigns, including David Plouffe, Stephanie Cutter, Mitch Stewart, and David Binder. These additions aim to strengthen the campaign’s strategic direction while maintaining the existing leadership structure.
Sams’s transition to Harris’s campaign, along with Orthman’s and Berner’s expanding roles, signifies a concerted effort to assemble a team of experienced and capable professionals. These moves are seen as essential for navigating the complex political landscape ahead of the 2024 election.
The decision to bring on seasoned operatives from the Obama era further demonstrates the campaign’s focus on solidifying its approach while drawing on proven expertise. As the campaign progresses, the impact of these staffing changes will likely become more evident, particularly as Harris’s team works to communicate her vision and respond to the challenges that lie ahead.
Jamal Trulove, a rapper and actor, has endorsed Donald Trump for the 2024 election after a traumatic wrongful conviction under Kamala Harris.
Trulove was wrongfully convicted of murder under Harris’s tenure and has shifted his political allegiance due to his disillusionment with the Biden-Harris administration, as Just the News reports.
Finding fame as a rapper and actor, Trulove was convicted of murder in 2010. The incident occurred while Harris was the district attorney of San Francisco, a role she held from 2004 to 2011.
Trulove was initially arrested in October 2008 for a fatal shooting that happened in 2007. He was sentenced to 50 years to life based solely on one witness's testimony. During the trial, Trulove faced additional charges related to firearm possession due to a previous conviction. His trial was marked by alleged prosecutorial misconduct, with Trulove asserting that Harris was present and laughed at his sentencing.
The California First District Court of Appeal later reduced Trulove’s conviction from first-degree to second-degree murder. It was agreed by the court that Assistant District Attorney Linda Allen had committed misconduct during the initial trial.
In 2015, Trulove saw his conviction overturned and was acquitted after a retrial. The reexamination of evidence by defense experts played a crucial role in his acquittal. Following his release, Trulove pursued a federal civil rights lawsuit against San Francisco for the misconduct in his original trial. In 2018, he was awarded a $10 million settlement, later increased to $13.1 million in March 2019.
Trulove had initially supported the Biden-Harris ticket in 2020 but has since become a vocal critic. He accuses Harris of gross misconduct during his trial and has expressed strong disapproval of her and President Joe Biden.
Trulove's traumatic experiences have left him staunchly opposed to Harris's political career. He reminisces about how Harris’s office had overseen his wrongful conviction, a memory that continues to haunt him. "In 2008, I was framed for murder and wrongfully convicted by the office of Kamala Harris," Trulove stated, emphasizing his psychological scars from the incident.
His criticisms extend beyond his personal experiences. Trulove voiced strong opposition to Harris’s tenure as district attorney, when she refrained from seeking the death penalty for a gang member who killed a police officer, a decision that was controversial among various groups.
Trulove’s support for Trump also stems from his broader discontent with the Biden-Harris administration. He recalls fewer conflicts and lower grocery prices during Trump’s tenure. “When Trump was in office, sh-t was cool,” he said, lamenting the changes he perceives under Biden's presidency. Trulove believes Trump’s policies were preferable by comparison.
Trulove has articulated that his endorsement of Trump isn’t aimed to attract approval but is rooted in his personal experiences and beliefs. He acknowledges the backlash he might face but stands firm in his decision.
During her career, Harris has taken stances that have attracted criticism from various quarters. While campaigning against the death penalty, she appealed a judge’s ruling that deemed it unconstitutional. Harris supported the Minnesota Freedom Fund during the 2020 riots, raising $41 million but using only a small portion for its intended purpose.
Trulove’s journey from wrongful conviction to political endorsement reflects a profound disillusionment with Harris and Biden. His criticisms of Harris’s tenure as district attorney and her broader policy decisions reveal deep-seated mistrust. His endorsement of Trump underscores a dramatic shift in political loyalty, driven by an ordeal that continues to affect him deeply.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre sidestepped a direct question on whether President Joe Biden would request a pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, from Vice President Kamala Harris if she is elected in the upcoming presidential election.
According to Breitbart News, Jean-Pierre avoided confirming or denying if President Biden would seek a pardon for Hunter Biden, who faces charges related to gun violations and alleged tax crimes.
During a press briefing, a reporter asked Jean-Pierre whether President Biden would advise Vice President Harris, if she were elected, to refrain from pardoning Hunter Biden. Jean-Pierre responded to the inquiry by labeling it as a “hypothetical” scenario.
“He said he would not pardon his son, and I’m just going to leave it there,” Jean-Pierre reiterated, referencing previous statements made by President Biden. This response reflects the administration's ongoing reluctance to comment on the possibility of a pardon.
Hunter Biden’s legal troubles have been a persistent source of controversy. Earlier this summer, he was found guilty of three gun-related violations, for which sentencing is scheduled to take place in November, after the election.
In addition to the gun charges, Hunter Biden is also facing trial in early September for alleged tax violations. The trial is expected to draw significant attention as it coincides with a pivotal moment in the political landscape, just before the 2024 presidential election.
The potential consequences for Hunter Biden are severe. If convicted on both the gun and tax charges, he could face up to 25 years in prison and fines amounting to $750,000. The possibility of a harsh sentence underscores the gravity of the situation.
The presiding judge in Hunter Biden’s gun case, Maryellen Noreika, recently handed down a one-year prison sentence to a defendant in a similar case, despite the defense's request for a more lenient six-month term. This ruling may foreshadow the outcome Hunter Biden could face.
As of June, the White House has not ruled out the possibility that President Biden might commute his son’s sentence should he be convicted on the gun-related charges. However, the administration has been careful not to make any definitive statements regarding this issue.
Jean-Pierre’s refusal to address the hypothetical scenario posed by the reporter suggests the administration's cautious approach to the matter. The White House has consistently avoided engaging in discussions that could be seen as interfering with the judicial process or political optics.
The broader implications of Hunter Biden's legal challenges remain a contentious topic. Critics argue that the administration's handling of the situation could have a significant impact on the upcoming election, particularly if Vice President Harris becomes the Democratic nominee.
As the November sentencing date for Hunter Biden approaches, the political ramifications of his legal troubles are likely to intensify. The possibility of a commutation or pardon remains a delicate issue that the Biden administration will need to navigate carefully.
The press briefing highlighted the White House's reluctance to engage with questions about a potential pardon for Hunter Biden. Jean-Pierre’s response reflects the administration’s ongoing strategy to avoid hypothetical scenarios while emphasizing President Biden’s previous commitment not to pardon his son.