Breitbart News reported that a group of lawmakers is advocating for President Joe Biden to step down as the Democratic presidential nominee, with support shifting to Vice President Kamala Harris.
The call took place on Sunday afternoon and involved several notable Democrats, including Representative Jerry Nadler of New York, Representative Mark Takano of California, Representative Don Beyer of Virginia, and Representative Adam Smith of Washington.
During this call, the congressmen voiced their concerns regarding Biden's ability to effectively serve another term, suggesting that he should step aside for the benefit of the party.
Political analyst John Bresnahan, co-founder of Punchbowl News, reported the details of this conversation in a post on X, highlighting that the call's participants largely favored Vice President Kamala Harris as the nominee. Bresnahan later clarified that an aide to Representative Don Beyer conveyed Beyer's continued support for President Biden but mentioned his openness to backing Harris if Biden decided to withdraw.
Jake Sherman, a founder of Punchbowl News, added further context by sharing comments attributed to Representative Beyer. Beyer was reportedly concerned about Biden's physical and cognitive fragility. He described his state as "very, very fragile" while acknowledging that Biden's handshake remained firm, even though he struggled to articulate cohesive thoughts during conversations.
Sherman’s account included Beyer's perspective on Harris's potential to win in the upcoming election, suggesting that her position as the incumbent would strengthen her candidacy. Beyer emphasized his willingness to support whatever the Democratic leadership deemed necessary for the party's success.
The urgency for Biden to reconsider his candidacy intensified after a contentious debate on June 27 between Biden and former President Donald Trump. This event seemingly amplified the concerns among Democrats, donors, and voters about Biden's capability to lead another term.
Adding to the growing list of critics, Representative Joe Morelle of New York has publicly urged Biden to step aside, expressing doubts about his ability to secure a victory. Bresnahan noted Morelle’s pessimism about Biden’s chances in light of the looming threat posed by a potential Trump candidacy.
Former Obama administration Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julian Castro also expressed skepticism, pointing out that Biden no longer demonstrated the same campaigning strength he exhibited in 2020 and warning that a rematch with Trump could result in defeat for the incumbent president.
Representatives Raul Grijalva of Arizona, Angie Craig of Minnesota, and Lloyd Doggett of Texas are among those calling for Biden to withdraw. Their concerns resonate with party segments and align with the growing sentiment that Biden may not be the ideal candidate to lead the party to another victory.
Additionally, Adam Frisch, a congressional candidate from Colorado’s 3rd District, has expressed similar views, further fueling the discourse around Biden’s candidacy. These calls for change underscore a broader debate within the party about its direction and leadership as it prepares for the upcoming election cycle.
This internal discussion within the Democratic Party presents a pivotal moment as Biden faces intensified scrutiny regarding his physical and cognitive readiness for a second term. The growing support for Vice President Harris illustrates an emerging consensus among certain Democratic lawmakers, supporters, and strategists who believe that fresh leadership could better position the party for success in the next election.
Democratic lawmakers, including Reps. Jerry Nadler, Mark Takano, Don Beyer, and others have privately suggested that President Joe Biden step aside in favor of Vice President Kamala Harris. This recommendation follows concerns about Biden's capacity to serve another term, which intensified after a recent presidential debate with former President Donald Trump.
The U.S. Navy has relieved Capt. Lenard C. Mitchell from his command of the USS Hershel “Woody” Williams’ Gold Crew.
This decision follows an investigation into the vessel’s grounding incident off the coast of West Africa in May 2024.
According to Task & Purpose, the incident occurred on May 9, 2024, near the port of Libreville, Gabon, where the ship experienced a "soft grounding." According to the Navy, the vessel was stuck for about four hours until it was freed by high tide. There were no reported injuries or major damages from this occurrence.
The investigation is still ongoing, but preliminary findings have led to the dismissal of Capt. Mitchell. "While the investigation is still open, sufficient findings of fact emerged during the investigation to warrant the relief of the commanding officer," stated a Navy press release.
This action reflects the Navy’s adherence to holding commanders accountable for mishaps under their watch. Capt. Mitchell, who began his tenure as commanding officer of the USS Hershel “Woody” Williams’ Gold Crew on November 20, 2022, has now been relieved of his duties.
Vice Adm. Thomas E. Ishee, the commander of the 6th Fleet, decided to relieve Mitchell. According to Lt. Cmdr. Jason Tross, a spokesperson for the 6th Fleet, the incident remains under investigation.
The Navy traditionally holds commanding officers to the highest standards, making them answerable for any mishaps occurring on their ships. This year alone, 13 commanding officers have been relieved of their duties, compared to 16 in 2023.
The Navy often employs the phrase "loss of confidence" to explain why an officer or senior enlisted leader is relieved. This is a standard procedure aimed at ensuring accountability and maintaining trust within the ranks.
Capt. Mitchell's career with the Navy began when he enlisted in 1990. He later received his commission through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps program at Southern University, Baton Rouge.
The investigation into the grounding incident is crucial in understanding the full extent of what happened and how it could have been prevented. The Navy emphasized in its news release that "the U.S. Navy holds commanding officers to the highest standard and takes action to hold them accountable when those standards are not met."
Mitchell's relief underscores the significant responsibilities entrusted to naval leaders, including the safety of their sailors and the operational readiness of their ships. Ensuring that commanders are capable of meeting these standards is a fundamental aspect of naval operations.
The USS Hershel “Woody” Williams, an expeditionary sea base ship, plays a critical role in supporting a variety of naval operations. The incident off the coast of Gabon is a reminder of the challenges faced during regular missions and the importance of command leadership.
Capt. Mitchell's relief from command of the USS Hershel “Woody” Williams’ Gold Crew follows an incident of soft grounding off the coast of West Africa. The vessel was temporarily stuck near Libreville, Gabon, and no injuries or significant damage was reported. The investigation continues, with the Navy emphasizing the standard of accountability expected from its commanding officers. This action by Vice Adm. Thomas E. Ishee highlights the critical responsibilities and expectations placed on naval leaders.
According to a recent poll conducted by the Daily Mail, Senator Tim Scott has emerged as the top choice for Donald Trump's vice president pick.
Scott leads the poll with 13% support among likely voters, while other contenders remain in the mix as speculation mounts ahead of the Republican Party convention next week.
In an unexpected twist, Senator Tim Scott, the only black Republican in the Senate, received 13% support in the Daily Mail survey of 1,000 likely voters. Close on his heels, foreign policy expert Senator Marco Rubio and former neurosurgeon Ben Carson each garnered 12% support.
Adding to the intrigue, Senator J.D. Vance and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum each received 4% support. Notably, the top three candidates remained consistent when the pool of voters was filtered to just Republicans.
Speculation regarding Trump's vice president selection intensified late last month when the former president hinted that his decision had been made and suggested that the chosen candidate would join him at the first presidential debate in Atlanta, Georgia. However, Trump's team has been tight-lipped since then, withholding further details.
During a recent appearance on Fox News, Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller suggested that the announcement could come at any moment. "It could happen anytime this week," Miller remarked.
The latest poll data also coincide with a J.L. Partners survey showing Trump expanding his lead over President Biden by two points, now standing six points ahead following the presidential debate. Meanwhile, Trump is scheduled to hold a rally in Miami on Tuesday, followed by another in Pennsylvania on Saturday, adding to the mounting anticipation.
Within Trump's inner circle, differing opinions abound regarding the ideal vice president candidate. Influential figures such as Steve Bannon advocated for Burgum, while Donald Trump Jr. and influencer Charlie Kirk rallied behind Vance. Meanwhile, Kellyanne Conway throws her support behind Rubio.
Trump campaign senior adviser Brian Hughes acknowledged the high stakes of the decision. "As President Trump has said himself, the top criteria in selecting a vice president is a strong leader who will make a great president for eight years after his next four-year term concludes," Hughes noted.
Furthermore, Hughes warned that any claims about knowing Trump's choice or timeline are unfounded. "But anyone telling you they know who or when President Trump will choose his VP is lying unless that person is named Donald J. Trump," he added.
The Republican Party convention, scheduled for next week, is expected to center heavily on Trump's vice president pick, with his team maintaining a calculated silence on the matter. The nation watches closely as Trump inches closer to making the pivotal decision, a choice that will undoubtedly shape the dynamics of the upcoming election and the broader political landscape.
As excitement bubbles over Scott’s lead in the Daily Mail poll, one can only speculate how this potential selection might resonate with voters long-term. Will the sole black Republican in the Senate bring the diversification Trump's campaign seeks? Or will Trump's final nod go towards foreign policy acumen or conservative ideological alignment?
Tim Scott leads the Daily Mail poll for Trump's likely VP with 13% support, followed closely by Marco Rubio and Ben Carson with 12%. Speculation grows as the Republican Party convention approaches, with a final decision expected soon. The nation eagerly awaits Trump's VP pick, with every public appearance analyzed for hints. Upcoming rallies and the convention will be key in revealing the decision.
According to Breitbart News, French President Emmanuel Macron has refused the resignation of Prime Minister Gabriel Attal.
Despite pressure from far-left factions following a surprising legislative victory for the New Popular Front, Macron aims to maintain political stability amidst significant challenges.
The rejection of Attal's resignation has stirred intense political discourse. Far-left groups have demanded that Macron either appoint a prime minister from their ranks or resign himself.
This follows legislative elections that saw an unexpected victory for the New Popular Front, a coalition of communists, environmentalists, and socialists led by Jean-Luc Mélenchon.
The elections were strategically held to prevent the National Rally party from gaining a parliamentary majority. Macron's strategy appears to have worked, as the National Rally's president, Jordan Bardella, was effectively sidelined from becoming the prime minister. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, the youngest and first openly gay prime minister in France, had offered his resignation Monday morning.
However, Macron reportedly persuaded Attal to remain in office. According to Le Figaro, Macron emphasized the critical need for Attal to "ensure the stability of the country." This decision underscores Macron's focus on political steadiness at a time of heightened tension and economic uncertainty.
Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the New Popular Front, has been vocal in his demands. He insists that Macron either appoint a prime minister from far-left ranks or step down. Mathilde Panot, spokeswoman for the New Popular Front, echoed Mélenchon's sentiments, asserting that he should be "absolutely not be disqualified" from consideration.
France's economic situation is another significant factor in this political equation. The country faces a daunting national debt of approximately 3 trillion euros, equivalent to about 110% of its GDP. The New Popular Front's intentions to reverse recent pension reforms add to the risk of exacerbating the debt crisis.
Outgoing economy minister Bruno Le Maire has issued dire warnings about the economic ramifications if the New Popular Front takes power. Le Maire cautioned about an "immediate risk" of a financial crisis and potential economic decline. This financial instability compounds the political volatility, creating an increasingly precarious landscape.
Le Maire further emphasized the ideological rift within the nation. He warned that without addressing this ideological divide, France could face a severe regime crisis. His concerns highlight the broader stakes at play in this ongoing political struggle.
The far-left's calls for representation in the highest levels of government are not unfounded. Mélenchon's leadership has revitalized the left, garnering significant support in the recent elections. Panot pointed out that Mélenchon has "reignited hope" within leftist circles, crediting him for the New Popular Front's existence and electoral success.
This newfound momentum has given the far-left a stronger voice in French politics. Their demands for representation are grounded in their substantial electoral gains and the legitimacy of their leaders. The political clamor for representation underscores the evolving dynamics within the French political sphere.
President Emmanuel Macron's decision to retain Prime Minister Gabriel Attal amid far-left pressure shows his commitment to political stability. The New Popular Front's unexpected legislative election victory challenges the status quo, while Macron's actions prevent the National Rally from gaining a parliamentary majority. France faces economic challenges, and political tensions reveal a deep ideological divide.
The return of in-person Republican and Democratic national conventions for the first time since 2016 provides the Secret Service with a daunting task.
As reported by the Washington Examiner, the Secret Service director confessed that the current political environment is different from that of 2020, but the agency is ready to manage security for the upcoming RNC and DNC conventions.
The 2024 conventions mark the first in-person gatherings for Republicans and Democrats since 2016. The Secret Service is making extensive preparations, taking into account the heightened political polarization and incidents of civil unrest since the last full-scale conventions.
The Republican National Convention (RNC) is set to begin in Milwaukee in a week, followed by the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago five weeks later. Previous conventions in 2020 were largely virtual, with limited in-person attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key events in the past few years have influenced current preparations. These include the summer 2020 civil unrest, the January 6 Capitol riot, and anti-Israel protests starting from October 7, 2023. These incidents have been factored into the comprehensive security strategies for the 2024 conventions.
Kimberly Cheatle, the Secret Service Director, emphasized the evolving political environment:
I think it plays into it. I think that the environment that we’re dealing with today is certainly different than it was four years ago. There’s nothing specific and nothing credible out there right now, but we are tracking all threat streams, and we certainly work with our partners at the FBI and other intelligence agencies that supply that information to us.
Protests are anticipated at both conventions. There are expectations of significant protests during the RNC in Milwaukee. Additionally, anti-Israel protesters have announced plans to gather in Chicago during the DNC.
The Secret Service is taking proactive measures to prevent any chaotic incidents reminiscent of the infamous 1968 DNC in Chicago. These preparations are intricately aligned with the modern political climate, ensuring safety and security.
Cheatle remained optimistic about the upcoming events. She stated she is “absolutely confident” that both conventions will proceed without major disturbances or incidents.
The acceptance speeches will be a significant highlight of the conventions. Former President Donald Trump is expected to accept the GOP nomination on July 18. A few weeks later, President Joe Biden will likely accept the Democratic nomination on August 22.
Biden's potential nomination has sparked some concerns within the Democratic Party. Some Democrats are anxious due to his recent poor debate performance, which has led to discussions about his viability as the nominee.
Beyond the nominee's concerns, these conventions signal a resumed sense of normalcy in the political process. They serve as a critical platform for both parties to unite, strategize, and present their plans to the American public amidst a politically charged atmosphere.
As the RNC and DNC approach, all eyes will be on the thoroughness of the Secret Service’s preparations. With the heightened political tension and historical context, the aim is to carry out these significant events securely and smoothly. The in-person conventions stand as a testament to resilience in the face of political division. They also represent an opportunity for public engagement and democratic participation that previous years' restrictions had stifled.
According to The Independent, neonatal nurse Lucy Letby was sentenced to a whole-life order for the attempted murder of a premature baby girl at Countess of Chester Hospital.
This latest conviction adds to Letby’s existing life terms for multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. The incident took place in February 2016 when Letby, 34, dislodged the breathing tube of a newborn, referred to as Child K, who had been born at just 25 weeks, weighing 692 grams.
Child K tragically passed away three days later after being moved to a specialist unit. This heinous act was discovered by Dr. Ravi Jayaram, a Consultant pediatrician, who reportedly "caught" Letby “virtually red-handed.”
At Manchester Crown Court on Friday, Mr. Justice Goss delivered sentencing remarks highlighting Letby’s methodical and emotionless cruelty. He emphasized that Letby has shown no regret for her actions.
Justice Goss stated, "It was another shocking act of calculated, callous cruelty,” underscoring the severity of her actions over the years. Despite her sentencing, Letby continued to proclaim her innocence, maintaining this stance as she was led out of the courtroom.
This retrial for the attempted murder charge was necessitated after the initial jury could not reach a verdict. The second jury took three and a half hours to convict Letby of the crime.
During the trial, Prosecutor Nick Johnson KC read the judge's remarks detailing Letby’s actions and their lethal consequences. Letby had initially been charged with Child K's murder, but this charge was dropped in June 2022. The Court heard how Dr. Jayaram intervened in the early hours, resuscitating Child K around 3:45 am after discovering her deteriorating state.
Lucy Letby is currently serving 14 whole-life terms for the killings of seven infants and the attempted killings of seven more, making her one of Britain's most notorious serial killers.
Cheshire Constabulary continues its extensive review of the care provided to approximately 4,000 babies admitted to the hospital's neonatal unit during Letby’s employment. In addition, a corporate manslaughter investigation is being conducted at the hospital, and a public inquiry into Letby’s criminal activities is expected to commence on September 10 at Liverpool Town Hall.
Nichola Wyn Williams, the senior crown prosecutor, described the complexity and harrowing nature of the case, asserting that Letby used her expertise as a nurse to become a killer.
Williams commented, “This has been an incredibly difficult, complex and disturbing case. A trained nurse tasked with looking after the most vulnerable babies used her craft and her skills to become a killer.” Justice Goss and Prosecutor Johnson both underscored Letby’s utter lack of remorse and her cold denial of guilt throughout the trial.
With her Court of Appeal bid to challenge her previous convictions rejected in May, Letby’s fate is now sealed as she faces the remainder of her life behind bars. The continuation of inquiries and investigations into the broader implications of her actions signals an ongoing pursuit of justice and assurance of safety protocols in neonatal care.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Lucy Letby for yet another horrific crime involving the attempted murder of a premature baby adds to her list of life sentences for similar acts of cruelty. This case remains a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities present in medical care for infants and the ongoing necessity for vigilant oversight and thorough investigative practices.
According to Daily Wire, First Lady Jill Biden fiercely defends President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign despite demands for him to withdraw.
Biden’s family consolidates control within the campaign and administration to counter internal dissension and prevent media leaks.
Jill Biden has publicly expressed frustration with those calling for President Joe Biden to abandon his campaign following a below-par debate performance against former President Donald Trump last week. The spirited defense from the first lady highlights the tense atmosphere that now surrounds Biden's re-election efforts.
According to sources, the Biden family is stepping in to consolidate control within the campaign and administration. The family is determined to counteract internal leaks and potential efforts to undermine the campaign. The incident follows a debate where President Biden's performance came under heavy scrutiny from both the media and internal advisers.
A source close to the Biden family revealed to NBC News that Jill Biden and their son, Hunter Biden, have taken a more prominent role in supporting the president post-debate. This increased involvement is seen as essential in counteracting the perceived mishandling of the campaign by some staff members.
Martha Raddatz of ABC News reported that Jill Biden is "lashing out at those" urging the president to withdraw. This comment highlights the First Lady's frustration with those questioning President Biden's capability and determination to win re-election.
The Biden family’s involvement is becoming more noticeable, with Hunter Biden attending more White House meetings. This move is seen as a direct response to the internal turmoil and the need for a united front within the campaign.
A source detailed the family's perspective, explaining that they have observed several mistakes by key campaign staff. The source went on to say, “The debate fiasco has opened up a lane for the family to surpass staff and start helping out their father and brother who they love dearly.”
The Biden family's discussions now focus on identifying which advisers should be replaced to rejuvenate the campaign. They believe that the existing staff has not adequately supported President Biden and has, at times, unfairly placed the blame for failures on him.
Hunter and Jill Biden are the principal advocates for President Biden to continue his campaign. Their presence in key discussions signifies their unwavering commitment to his re-election bid. This consolidation of family support is seen as crucial amidst calls for the president to step down.
In recent weeks, the Biden family has been candid in their criticisms of the campaign’s current operational status. A source close to the family described the sentiment: “I believe the family has witnessed blunder after blunder by key staff personnel, and the debate is likely the straw that broke the camel’s back.”
President Biden's advisers face intense scrutiny from the First Family, who are determined to remove those they see as liabilities. This strategy aims to eliminate internal threats and place accountability directly within the family’s domain.
In summary, the Biden family is rallying to protect President Joe Biden's campaign amidst internal dissatisfaction and external pressure. Their increased involvement indicates a strategic move to regain control and prevent further missteps as they push towards the election. This resolute stance by Jill and Hunter Biden highlights their commitment to seeing President Biden re-elected, making the family an essential component of the campaign’s future direction.
As Axios reported, Justice Amy Coney Barrett is distinguishing herself on the Supreme Court, becoming a central intellectual figure among conservatives.
She is cementing her role with a distinct conservative approach, differing in legal methodology from her colleagues and potentially guiding future constitutional interpretations differently.
With Barrett’s appointment, predictions were clear—she would not just cast a reliable right-leaning vote but be a powerful conservative voice. Her rulings have confirmed expectations; she supported overturning Roe v. Wade, advocated for expanding gun rights, and preferred limiting federal authority.
However, Barrett does not uniformly align with her conservative peers. Rather than rushing legal processes to achieve specific outcomes, she often underscores the importance of deliberate and thorough legal analysis. Her skepticism about using historical precedent simplistically has set her apart.
Recent judicial terms have revealed Barrett’s unique perspective. Unlike other Republican-appointed justices, she has not consistently sided with former President Donald Trump on disputed matters. This term, she aligned with liberal justices in dissenting against a narrower Justice Department charge concerning the Jan. 6 cases.
In another case, Barrett suggested that the conservative cohort should judiciously consider the basis for Trump’s ballot case ruling in Colorado, advocating for narrower grounds. This stance reflects her broader belief that courts must not be hasty in dictating decisions, particularly in contexts of presidential immunity.
One of Barrett’s marked differences is her critique of fellow conservatives' reliance on historical analysis. She has refuted Justice Clarence Thomas’ approach, arguing that responses to modern legal challenges should not rest solely on historical traditions.
Barrett emphasizes viewing history in a nuanced manner, arguing for a broader understanding. Quoting Barrett, she believes that treating "tradition as not an end in itself" is crucial for modern legal analysis. Accordingly, she champions principles rather than molds in historical regulations.
Barrett's standpoint aims to moderate how historical context influences judicial reasoning. She suggests a shift in ideological methodology and advocates for adaptable historical interpretation to suit contemporary issues. This shift has begun to be evident in her reigning opinions and dissenting notes.
Despite her conservative alignment, Barrett has, on several occasions, shown a willingness to diverge from anticipated paths, willing to build future court majorities on her evolving judicial philosophy.
Appointed at a relatively young age, Barrett is positioned to influence the Supreme Court for decades to come. Her perceived long-lasting presence could outlast justices like Thomas and Alito, pointing to her potential to shape the Court’s future direction significantly.
Moreover, Barrett frequently aligns herself with Chief Justice John Roberts, adding further depth to her strategic legal positioning. Roberts, known for his own nuanced views, finds a thoughtful ally in Barrett.
Justice Amy Coney Barrett is becoming a core intellect on the Supreme Court, shaping conservative legal principles while maintaining independent thought. She has criticized simplistic historical analysis for modern cases, advocating for a contextual approach. Barrett’s influence will likely impact the Court’s future composition and doctrinal development for years to come.
According to Fox News, a human case of the plague has been confirmed in Pueblo County, Colorado, and health officials are providing tips to prevent its spread.
The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment (PDPHE) is working with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to investigate the case. The identity of the individual who contracted the plague has not been disclosed.
The bubonic plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. This bacterium is believed to have been brought to North America around 1900 by rats on ships from South Asia. Yersinia pestis has since become endemic in ground squirrels and other rodents in the rural Southwestern United States. About half of the plague cases occur in individuals between 12 and 45.
Globally, between 1,000 and 2,000 cases of plague are reported to the World Health Organization annually, with an average of seven cases yearly in the United States.
If untreated, the plague has a fatality rate of 30% to 60%. However, with prompt antibiotic treatment, the fatality rate drops below 5%. Symptoms of the plague include severe headache, fever and chills, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and swollen lymph nodes.
The disease can spread through droplets from an infected person, pets, rodents, and fleas, either through bites or contact with infected body fluids.
Infected dust from dried rodent urine or feces can also spread the infection. Prevention measures include avoiding contact with rodents and fleas, keeping pets indoors, treating flea infestations, and using insect repellents.
"We advise all individuals to protect themselves and their pets from plague," said Alicia Solis, program manager of the Office of Communicable Disease and Emergency Preparedness at PDPHE.
Timothy Brewer, M.D., noted, "Since its introduction 120 years ago, it has become endemic in ground squirrels and rodents in the rural Southwestern U.S."
Erica Susky, a certified infection control practitioner, emphasized:
The more common risk of exposure in the U.S. is from pets, rodents and fleas. Pets can sometimes be infected when encountering an infected flea or rodent and may pass it along to their pet owners from a bite or if the pet is ill. Skinned animals are also a risk, as the bacterium can spread via infected body fluids.
Susky recommended treating pets promptly if they have a flea infestation and seeking veterinary treatment if a pet becomes ill. She also advised ensuring homes are rodent-proof by eliminating entry points and hiding places.
Using repellent to avoid insect bites when spending time outdoors is crucial, Susky noted, as bites from infected fleas are a primary means of transmission. "Plague can be treated successfully with antibiotics, but an infected person must be treated promptly to avoid serious complications or death," Solis stated.
A human case of the plague has been confirmed in Pueblo County, Colorado, with health officials investigating the situation. Yersinia pestis, the bacterium causing the plague, has been endemic in the rural Southwestern U.S. since its introduction around 1900. Symptoms of the plague are severe but treatable with prompt antibiotics. Preventative measures include avoiding contact with rodents and fleas, keeping pets indoors, and using repellents. Public health officials emphasize the importance of protecting humans and pets from this potentially deadly disease.
Former President Donald Trump's recent activities on Truth Social are sparking speculation about his Vice Presidential pick.
According to The Gateway Pundit, Trump may choose Dr. Ben Carson as his running mate based on recent social media gestures and joint appearances.
On Truth Social, Trump recently started following Dr. Ben Carson, marking Carson as the only Vice Presidential contender he follows. This action has fueled speculation about Carson's potential role in Trump's 2024 campaign. Notably, Trump does not follow other vetted candidates, such as Governor Doug Burgum and Senator J.D. Vance, on the platform.
Dr. Ben Carson, infamous for his career as a pediatric neurosurgeon, ran for the Republican nomination in 2016. He also served in Trump's administration as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, gaining significant political experience.
His background, which includes being a Black Christian from Detroit, could be pivotal in attracting Black voters to Trump's campaign.
Trump's interaction with Carson on Truth Social extends beyond a simple follow. On Saturday night, Trump publicly wished Dr. Ben Carson and his wife, Candy Carson, a happy anniversary. The gesture was highlighted with the message, “Happy Anniversary to Ben & Candy Carson, two really spectacular people!”
Recent joint campaign appearances have also brought Carson into the spotlight. For instance, Carson participated in the Black American Business Leaders Barbershop Roundtable event in Atlanta, reflecting his active involvement in Trump’s campaign efforts. These activities appear to be strategic moves in positioning Carson as a potential running mate.
Selecting Carson as a Vice Presidential candidate could be significant for Trump's campaign. Carson's diverse background and strong appeal among Black Christian voters might provide a substantial boost. His Detroit roots and conservative values resonate well with a segment of voters that Trump aims to attract.
However, Carson's history is not without controversy. His past comments on sensitive issues such as describing modern America as being in a “Gestapo age,” criticisms of Obamacare, and expressing his stance on a Muslim president have spurred debate. These remarks could polarize opinions and impact the campaign's overall reception.
Trump’s decision to follow Carson on Truth Social at this critical pre-campaign juncture emphasizes strategic timing. By highlighting Carson, Trump is possibly signaling his consideration of Carson's VP candidacy to the public and gauging the reaction. Carson’s involvement in the campaign points to an emerging strategy aimed at broadening voter appeal.
Despite the anticipation and signals, neither Trump nor his campaign has officially confirmed Carson as the Vice Presidential pick. The decision remains speculative, with Trump’s actions on social media and Carson’s increased visibility acting as key indicators. The public’s reaction and forthcoming campaign announcements will likely clarify Trump's final decision.
In summary, Trump's recent follow-up of Dr. Ben Carson on Truth Social has heightened speculation about Carson being a potential Vice Presidential candidate for the 2024 election. Carson's political background and involvement in recent joint campaign activities add weight to these speculations. His potential influence on Black voters highlights his strategic importance to Trump's campaign.
The Trump campaign's vetting process has considered several candidates, but Carson stands out due to his significant connection with Trump and active presence in campaign events. His varied background and public controversies could play pivotal roles as the campaign progresses. As the 2024 election approaches, further developments will be closely watched.