Gold Star families encountered difficulties in arranging for former President Donald Trump to join them at Arlington National Cemetery for the third anniversary of the Afghanistan withdrawal.
According to a report by The Daily Caller, the families invited Trump to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony honoring the 13 servicemembers killed during the withdrawal. However, they faced challenges from Arlington National Cemetery officials in coordinating the event.
The families reported that the cemetery imposed strict time constraints and initially refused to allow Trump to visit the gravesites. The situation was only resolved after intervention from House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republican lawmakers.
House Speaker Mike Johnson's involvement proved crucial in resolving the issues surrounding Trump's visit. After being contacted by Gold Star parents and Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Rep. Michael McCaul, Johnson intervened to ensure the ceremony could proceed as the families wished.
McCaul expressed his frustration with the situation, stating that such difficulties should never have occurred for Gold Star families who have already endured significant loss. His swift action in reaching out to Speaker Johnson helped overcome the obstacles presented by Arlington National Cemetery officials.
The intervention by Johnson and his team led to a significant shift in the cemetery's stance, allowing for more flexible arrangements that accommodated both the families' wishes and Trump's attendance.
The Gold Star families involved in organizing the event voiced their frustration with the initial resistance from Arlington National Cemetery. They emphasized that it was their decision to invite Trump and that they had not received any communication from the current administration in the three years since their loved ones' deaths.
Darin Hoover, father of Staff Sgt. Darin Taylor Hoover spoke emotionally about the situation:
We, WE extended the invitation to President Trump. We are the ones that asked him to come. We are the ones that asked him to assist in laying a wreath for our son, and for the shooting for, Sergeant Canals and for Cole. We're the ones that asked that. President Trump didn't come to us. His team didn't come to us and say, hey, this would be good for business. Business? No. President Trump has stood by us from day one. He has been compassionate. He has been loving. He's been understanding. He's taking the mantle of our outrage a little bit. Because to be quite honest with you, being very frank, we haven't heard diddly squat from the current administration in three years.
Several Republican lawmakers commented on the difficulties faced by the Gold Star families in arranging the ceremony with Trump. Rep. Darrell Issa of California, who had previously called on President Biden to meet with these families, was present at the ceremony and had been in contact with Arlington National Cemetery leading up to the event.
Issa criticized the Biden administration's handling of the situation, stating, "This administration absolutely interfered with the tributes to the 13 fallen. In its war on Trump, it made the Gold Star families collateral damage." The involvement of multiple Republican representatives, including Issa, McCaul, and Brian Mast, highlights the political significance of the event and the support these lawmakers provided to the Gold Star families in their efforts to honor their fallen loved ones.
When contacted about the difficulties faced by the Gold Star families, the White House distanced itself from the situation. A White House spokesperson referred inquiries to Arlington National Cemetery, stating that the matter was between the cemetery and the Trump campaign, not a White House issue.
This response from the White House adds another layer to the controversy, as it appears to shift responsibility for the complications entirely onto Arlington National Cemetery officials. The lack of direct engagement from the current administration on this sensitive issue may further fuel the frustrations expressed by the Gold Star families. The cemetery itself did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the claims made by the families and lawmakers involved in organizing the event.
The Gold Star families' efforts to include former President Trump in a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery faced significant obstacles. The intervention of House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republican lawmakers was necessary to resolve the issues. The families expressed gratitude for Trump's support while voicing disappointment with the current administration's lack of communication. The White House distanced itself from the controversy, referring inquiries to Arlington National Cemetery. This event highlights the ongoing sensitivities surrounding the Afghanistan withdrawal and its impact on military families.
Bob Carr, a prominent Democratic figure who served 18 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, has died at the age of 81.
According to Detroit Free Press, Carr passed away peacefully on Tuesday after battling multiple health issues in recent years, including multiple myeloma and esophageal cancer.
Carr, born Milton Robert Carr in Janesville, Wisconsin, made significant contributions to American politics during his tenure in Congress. He was known for his work on the powerful Appropriations Committee, where he rose to become a subcommittee chairman. His career in the House spanned from 1974 to 1994, with a brief interruption in 1980-1982.
Carr's political journey began in East Lansing, Michigan, where he moved after completing his education in Wisconsin. His early career included working as an assistant to Frank Kelley, Michigan's longest-serving attorney general, alongside future Michigan Governor Jim Blanchard.
In 1974, Carr won his first election to Congress, riding the wave of anti-war sentiment during the Vietnam era. He defeated Republican incumbent Charles Chamberlain, whom he had nearly bested two years prior. This victory marked the beginning of a long and influential career in the House of Representatives.
Carr's time in Congress was marked by significant achievements and evolving political stances. He served as chairman of the Transportation Subcommittee, where he played a crucial role in crafting funding measures for transportation and infrastructure projects worth billions of dollars annually.
Over his 18 years in Congress, Carr underwent a notable transformation in his political image. He entered as what the Free Press described as "a brash, anti-war liberal" but later became known as "a tight-lipped conservative power broker" in Washington.
This evolution was evident in his approach to various issues and his increasing influence within the Democratic Party. Carr's interests were diverse, extending beyond traditional political boundaries. He was a pilot, a photographer, and served as chairman of the Congressional Arts Caucus for several years.
Carr's expertise and involvement weren't limited to domestic affairs. He played a role as an adviser to the SALT II arms control treaty in the late 1970s, demonstrating his engagement with international diplomacy and security issues.
Following his departure from Congress, Carr remained active in public life. He taught at George Washington University's Graduate School of Public Management and worked with the Brookings Institution. His continued involvement in policy and education showcased his commitment to public service beyond his time in elected office.
Former colleagues and fellow politicians have expressed their admiration for Carr. Former Michigan Governor Jim Blanchard said:
He was an enormously talented person. He seemed to be interested in everything and when he took on a subject, he always tried to master it.
U.S. Representative Dan Kildee of Michigan described Carr as "a true public servant," praising his dedication to his community, students, and friends. Representative Debbie Dingell, who had known Carr for nearly four decades, highlighted his personal battle with multiple myeloma and his contributions to various causes, including cancer research funding.
Bob Carr's passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Michigan's political history. His 18-year tenure in Congress, marked by leadership roles and diverse interests, left a lasting impact on transportation, arts, and international relations. Carr's evolution from an anti-war liberal to an influential figure in Washington reflects the complex nature of long-term political careers. His post-congressional work in education and policy analysis further solidified his legacy as a dedicated public servant. Carr's family has announced that a celebration of his life will be held after the fall elections, with donations to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation suggested in lieu of flowers.
The Duke of Sussex's controversial memoir "Spare" is set to hit shelves again in paperback form, potentially paving the way for a reconciliation within the British royal family.
According to Fox News, Penguin Random House announced that the paperback edition will be available in the United States on October 22 and in the United Kingdom on October 24.
The publisher confirmed that the content of the paperback version will remain unchanged from its original hardcover release. This decision to maintain the book's content without alterations may indicate Prince Harry's willingness to move forward and potentially mend fences with his estranged family members.
The decision to release an unaltered version of "Spare" in paperback format could be interpreted as a sign that Prince Harry stands by his words but is also open to healing family rifts. The memoir, which initially hit shelves in January 2023, provided an intimate look into Harry's life as the second son of King Charles III and Princess Diana.
Prince Harry has previously expressed that the book was not intended to damage the monarchy. In fact, he stated that his goal was to save the royal family from themselves. This sentiment, coupled with the unchanged content of the paperback release, may indicate a desire for understanding and reconciliation.
The Duke of Sussex has also mentioned that he genuinely wants his brother and father back in his life, although he has called for an apology regarding their treatment of his wife, Meghan Markle.
In "Spare," Prince Harry made several revelations about his relationship with the royal family. He claimed that he and his brother, Prince William, had pleaded with their father not to marry Camilla, now Queen Consort. The book also detailed the skepticism Harry's family allegedly harbored towards Meghan Markle from the beginning of their relationship.
These revelations and other personal anecdotes contributed to the book's immense success. Upon its initial release, "Spare" became an instant global bestseller, selling over 6 million copies worldwide in various formats. It even holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest-selling nonfiction book of all time.
Prince Harry shared his perspective on the book's reception, stating:
I don't want to tell anyone what to think of it and that includes my family. This book and its truths are in many ways a continuation of my own mental health journey. It's a raw account of my life.
The release of the paperback edition comes at a time when speculation about a possible reconciliation between Prince Harry and the royal family continues to circulate. While the unchanged content suggests that Harry stands by his words, it also leaves the door open for dialogue and understanding.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back from their royal duties in January 2020, relocating first to Canada and then settling in Southern California. This move, coupled with the revelations in "Spare," has created a significant rift within the royal family.
However, the enduring public interest in the royal family's dynamics, as evidenced by the continued demand for "Spare," may provide an opportunity for healing. The paperback release could serve as a catalyst for renewed discussions and potentially lead to a path of reconciliation.
In conclusion, the upcoming paperback release of Prince Harry's memoir "Spare" maintains its original content, suggesting a continued stance on transparency. This decision may indicate an openness to reconciliation within the royal family. The book's success and ongoing public interest demonstrate the impact of Harry's revelations. As the release date approaches, many will be watching to see if this leads to any shifts in the relationship between Prince Harry and his family.
The Biden administration is facing a legal challenge from sixteen Republican-led states over a new rule that offers deportation protection and a potential path to permanent residency for certain illegal immigrants. According to Fox News, the states argue that this rule violates federal law and constitutes an unlawful use of parole.
The program, announced in June by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), aims to provide protection from deportation and a path to permanent residency for certain illegal immigrant spouses without requiring them to leave the country.
The lawsuit, led by Texas and America First Legal, challenges the "parole in place" rule, which allows for humanitarian parole and a potential route to permanent residency for illegal immigrant spouses of U.S. citizens who have lived in the country for at least 10 years as of June 2024. The states contend that this program circumvents established processes for obtaining immigration benefits and permanent status, which typically require individuals to leave the country and be readmitted.
The coalition of states argues that the Biden administration's use of parole in this context violates federal law, which limits the use of parole to case-by-case determinations for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. They claim that the program effectively creates a new pathway to green cards and eventual citizenship for over 1.3 million illegal immigrants, with more than 200,000 residing in Texas alone.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, leading the charge against the program, expressed strong opposition to what he perceives as the Biden administration's efforts to undermine border security and immigration laws. Paxton stated that the new parole program unilaterally grants citizenship opportunities to unvetted individuals who initially entered the country illegally.
The Department of Homeland Security defends the program, asserting that it is grounded in well-established legal authority and aligns with fundamental American values of keeping families together.
The lawsuit reflects ongoing tensions between Republican-led states and the Biden administration over immigration policies. Critics of the program, including Stephen Miller, president of America First Legal, argue that it constitutes an unconstitutional amnesty program that could exacerbate existing border security challenges.
The White House has responded to the lawsuit, accusing Republican officials of prioritizing political maneuvers over addressing the needs of American families and reforming the immigration system. A spokesperson emphasized that the program aims to prevent the separation of U.S. citizens from their spouses and stepchildren who are already eligible for lawful permanent residency.
This legal challenge is part of a broader debate surrounding the Biden administration's use of parole in immigration policy. The administration has implemented other parole programs, including one that allows up to 1,450 individuals daily to enter at ports of entry via the CBP One app and another that permits 30,000 nationals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter the U.S. monthly.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the Biden administration's immigration policies and the lives of thousands of illegal immigrants married to U.S. citizens. If successful, the legal challenge may force the administration to revise its approach to family-based immigration and parole programs.
As the case progresses through the legal system, it is likely to draw attention to the ongoing debate over immigration reform and border security in the United States. The lawsuit underscores the complex interplay between executive actions, legislative processes, and judicial oversight in shaping immigration policy.
In conclusion, the lawsuit filed by 16 Republican-led states against the Biden administration's parole program for illegal immigrants married to U.S. citizens has ignited a heated legal and political debate. The challenge centers on the legality of using parole to provide a path to permanent residency without requiring individuals to leave the country.
As the case unfolds, it will likely have significant implications for immigration policy and families affected by the program. The outcome may shape future approaches to addressing the complex issues surrounding illegal immigration and family unification in the United States.
According to a recent report from The Telegraph, Donald Trump's campaign is attributing Kamala Harris's sustained lead in the polls to favorable media coverage.
As the Republican candidate braces for a potential further decline in poll numbers, his team is characterizing Harris's popularity as an "extended honeymoon" fueled by glowing press coverage.
The Trump campaign's top pollster, Toby Fabrizio, acknowledged in a memo that Harris is likely to increase her lead following the Democratic National Convention (DNC).
However, he insisted that this boost would be temporary, echoing a sentiment shared by many Republican commentators who view the vice president's surge as a fleeting "sugar high."
Recent analysis from the Media Research Center reveals a stark contrast in the tone of coverage between the two candidates. The conservative watchdog found that 84% of Harris's coverage on major networks has been positive, while 89% of Trump's coverage has been negative.
This disparity in media treatment has not gone unnoticed by the Trump campaign. They argue that the extended positive coverage of Harris has contributed to her sustained lead in the polls, which currently stands at 3.6% nationally, according to FiveThirtyEight, up from 0.4% a month ago.
The Media Research Center's report also noted that Harris had received 66% more airtime than Trump on CBS, NBC, and ABC. This imbalance in both quantity and quality of coverage has led to accusations of media bias from the Republican camp.
In response to the challenging poll numbers, the Trump campaign is reportedly overhauling its strategy. Politico reports that Trump has conceded he could lose to Harris in November without a dramatic change in course.
As part of this recalibration, Trump has made efforts to mend fences with key allies in battleground states. Notably, he has reconciled with Brian Kemp, the governor of Georgia, a crucial swing state. This move comes after Trump had previously criticized Kemp, blaming him for his 2020 election loss in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the Trump campaign, Fabrizio emphasized the importance of focusing on swing state polls rather than national numbers. He stated:
We need to keep our eye on the ball – that is the polling in our target states. Our goal is to get to 270 [electoral college votes] and winning these states is how we do it. We'll let the media make mountains out of molehills, while we keep driving forward.
Despite the apparent media advantage for Harris, some Democratic strategists are urging caution. James Carville, known for his role in Bill Clinton's successful 1992 campaign, warned against complacency based on national polls. He also noted that Trump has historically underperformed in polls compared to actual election results.
On the Republican side, there's an acknowledgment of the challenges faced by the Trump campaign. Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former White House spokeswoman, observed that Trump seems to have "lost his mojo" in his contest against Harris.
In conclusion, the Trump campaign is grappling with a significant polling deficit and what it perceives as biased media coverage favoring Kamala Harris. While it expects a further boost for Harris following the DNC, it maintains that this surge will be short-lived. The campaign is actively adjusting its strategy, focusing on key battleground states and reconnecting with important allies.
Alaska’s political landscape shifted dramatically this week as Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom announced her withdrawal from the state’s House race, following a third-place finish in the primary.
Though she had the backing of former President Donald Trump, Dahlstrom's exit clears the path for Nick Begich to become the top Republican contender against incumbent Rep. Mary Peltola in the November general election, as the Washington Examiner reports.
Dahlstrom’s decision to withdraw came swiftly after the results of the primary were tallied. Despite entering the race with hopes of providing better representation for Alaskans, her campaign failed to gain the traction needed to secure a spot as the leading Republican candidate.
The primary results placed Dahlstrom in a distant third, well behind Begich, who is now positioned as the GOP’s best hope to reclaim the seat currently held by Peltola, a Democrat. Dahlstrom’s decision to step aside was influenced by her commitment to ensuring a strong Republican challenge in the upcoming general election.
“I entered this race because Alaskans deserve better representation than what we have received from Mary Peltola in Washington,” Dahlstrom stated. “At this time, the best thing I can do to see that goal realized is to withdraw my name from the general election ballot and end my campaign.”
The race for Alaska’s sole House seat has been notably shaped by the state’s ranked choice voting system. This system, implemented to give voters more flexibility in their selections, has altered traditional campaigning strategies and the overall election dynamics.
Under ranked choice voting, voters rank their preferred candidates, with votes being reallocated if no candidate secures a majority of first-choice votes. This method played a crucial role in Mary Peltola’s historic victory last year, flipping Alaska’s House seat to the Democrats for the first time in 50 years. In the 2022 election cycle, Republican candidates Begich and former Gov. Sarah Palin failed to consolidate their support, resulting in internal GOP conflict and ultimately, Peltola’s victory. This time, with Dahlstrom’s withdrawal, Republicans aim to present a united front.
Begich, who finished second in the 2022 special and general elections, will once again face Peltola in November. This upcoming rematch is expected to be highly competitive, with Begich now standing as the clear Republican candidate following Dahlstrom’s exit.
Begich’s campaign has emphasized the need for strong conservative representation in Washington, D.C., and he has vowed to focus his efforts on defeating Peltola rather than engaging in divisive primary battles. Begich had previously pledged to step aside if he trailed Dahlstrom in the primary, a scenario that did not come to pass.
With Dahlstrom out of the race, Begich is likely to consolidate more of the Republican vote, although the general election will still feature multiple candidates. The ranked choice voting system will again be a key factor, as it allows voters to rank up to four candidates on the ballot.
Despite the narrowed Republican field, Begich faces significant challenges in the upcoming general election. Chief among these is Peltola’s substantial fundraising lead. As of July 31, Peltola had $2.8 million in cash on hand, far outpacing Begich’s $172,548.
Peltola has demonstrated strong fundraising capabilities throughout her time in office, having raised over $7.5 million in total compared to Begich’s $983,000. This financial advantage could prove crucial as the November election approaches.
With Dahlstrom’s withdrawal, Begich must now focus on building his campaign’s war chest and appealing to a broader electorate if he hopes to overcome Peltola’s significant financial edge. The general election in November will determine whether the Republicans can reclaim Alaska’s lone House seat or if Peltola will secure a full term after her groundbreaking victory in 2022.
In a surprising political twist, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has suspended his independent presidential bid and endorsed former President Donald Trump. The decision marks a significant shift in the 2024 race, as Kennedy cites free speech, the war in Ukraine, and the well-being of children as his primary motivations.
Kennedy announced his support for Trump during a press conference held in Arizona on Friday, signaling a potential boost for the former president’s campaign and a serious blow to that of Kamala Harris, as the Washington Examiner reports.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had been running an independent campaign since October after exiting the Democratic primary process. His campaign faced numerous challenges, including declining poll numbers and difficulties securing spots on state ballots. By the end of last month, the campaign’s financial resources were severely depleted, with $3.9 million in the bank and nearly $3.5 million in debt.
Kennedy's endorsement of Trump comes after a period of limited public campaigning, which had largely ceased since early July. Despite his efforts to appeal to a broad voter base, Kennedy struggled to gain traction, particularly in battleground states like Arizona and Pennsylvania, from which he plans to withdraw his name.
The independent's decision to endorse Trump was confirmed shortly before the press conference through a court filing in Pennsylvania. His announcement reflects a deep dissatisfaction with both major political parties, a sentiment he has expressed throughout his campaign.
In his endorsement, Kennedy highlighted three core issues that drove him to first run for office and ultimately to back Trump: concerns over free speech, the conflict in Ukraine, and what he described as a "war on children." These issues, Kennedy said, were central to his departure from the Democratic Party and his decision to run as an independent candidate.
Speaking to the media, Kennedy criticized the Democratic Party and specifically Vice President Kamala Harris for avoiding interviews and being unresponsive to important issues. His disillusionment with the party, coupled with ongoing concerns about the state of the nation, played a significant role in his decision.
Trump, who had been in communication with Kennedy as far back as July, welcomed the endorsement. The former president expressed enthusiasm about the potential collaboration, describing Kennedy as "a very smart guy" and expressing hope that the endorsement would help secure a win in the 2024 election.
During the press conference, Kennedy also outlined his concerns about federal agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). He accused these agencies of being controlled by large corporations and pledged to reform them if given the opportunity.
Kennedy’s critique of these agencies is consistent with his long-standing skepticism about the relationship between government bodies and private industry. He argued that these agencies have been compromised by corporate interests, particularly within the pharmaceutical industry, and promised that with Trump’s support, he would work to overhaul them.
Despite his endorsement, Kennedy expressed doubts about joining Trump’s administration should the former president be re-elected. However, he noted that Trump’s sons and other supporters had encouraged him to consider the possibility.
The endorsement of Trump by Kennedy could have a significant impact on the 2024 presidential race. According to polling from The Wall Street Journal, half of third-party voters indicated they would switch their support to Trump if Kennedy left the race, with only a quarter opting to back Vice President Harris.
Kennedy's withdrawal from the race eliminates a potential third-party threat to the GOP, which could bolster Trump’s chances in key battleground states. The endorsement is likely to shift momentum in Trump’s favor, particularly as the general election draws closer.
A New York appeals court has scheduled oral arguments for September 26 to hear Donald Trump's appeal of the $454 million civil fraud judgment against him.
As reported by CNN, this timeline suggests that a decision from the appeals court is unlikely to be reached before Election Day. The former president is contesting Judge Arthur Engoron's ruling, which found him liable for fraud and ordered him to pay $354 million plus interest, bringing the total to over $454 million.
Trump's legal team has filed an appeal, arguing that the judgment should be thrown out on various grounds, including claims that no one was harmed and that the case should not have been brought due to its age.
Trump's attorneys have presented several arguments in their appeal. They contend that the judgment is unconstitutional and that the conduct in question is too old to be prosecuted. Additionally, they assert that no parties were harmed by the alleged fraudulent activities.
In April, Trump posted a $175 million bond after the appeals court reduced the initial bond amount. This action effectively paused any potential moves by New York Attorney General Letitia James' office to seize properties or bank accounts related to the case.
The New York Attorney General's office has responded to Trump's appeal with a court filing, urging the state appeals court to uphold Justice Engoron's verdict. They argue that there is "overwhelming evidence" of Trump knowingly committing fraud by inflating the value of his properties on financial statements to secure loans.
The Attorney General's office strongly defended the original ruling in their court filing. They emphasized the substantial evidence supporting the fraud allegations and criticized Trump's legal team for avoiding discussion of the specific deceptive practices used to inflate asset values.
The Attorney General's office stated:
This Court should affirm. Supreme Court's liability determinations are supported by overwhelming evidence that, in each Statement, defendants used a variety of deceptive strategies to vastly misrepresent the values of Mr. Trump's assets.
They further argued that Trump's lawyers primarily focused on legal arguments about the elements of the law rather than addressing the substance of the fraud allegations.
To illustrate their point, the Attorney General's office highlighted the valuation of Trump's Florida residence, Mar-A-Lago, as an example of inflated property values. They claimed that valuing the property as an unrestricted private residence rather than a social club inflated its value by approximately $300 to $700 million, depending on the year.
The state lawyers also defended the judgment amount, stating that it reasonably approximated the ill-gotten gains received by Trump and his associates as a result of the alleged fraud. They argued that extensive trial evidence, including expert testimony, supported the $363.8 million figure.
Trump's legal team has countered these claims by arguing that most of the judgment should be dismissed because it relates to loans outside the statute of limitations. They also contend that the judge double-counted by including profits from property sales in addition to interest rate savings.
In conclusion, the upcoming oral arguments on September 26 represent a critical juncture in Donald Trump's appeal of the $454 million civil fraud judgment. The New York Attorney General's office maintains that there is substantial evidence to support the original verdict, while Trump's legal team argues for the dismissal of the case on various grounds. With the hearing scheduled for next month, it appears unlikely that a decision will be reached before Election Day, potentially extending the legal battle into the heart of the presidential campaign season.
Newsweek reported that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, known for his assertive education policies, encountered significant setbacks in the recent school board elections across the state.
Despite endorsing 23 candidates, the majority failed to secure their races, signaling potential challenges for DeSantis' educational agenda.
The governor's influence was tested in multiple counties with mixed results. While his support did lead to victories in some areas, such as Duval County, where Tony Ricardo and Melody Bolduc secured their seats, many other DeSantis-endorsed candidates fell short.
Pinellas County proved particularly challenging for DeSantis. In a decisive victory, incumbent Laura Hine defeated DeSantis-endorsed Danielle Marolf, securing nearly 70% of the vote. Eileen Long also triumphed over Erika Picard, another DeSantis-backed candidate, capturing 54% of the vote. Stacy Geier, supported by the governor, will face Katie Blaxberg in a November runoff for an open seat.
In Hillsborough County, incumbents Nadia Combs and Jessica Vaughn held their positions against DeSantis-backed challengers Layla Collins and Myosha Powell. These outcomes underscore the difficulty DeSantis' candidates faced, even in districts where his influence has previously been strong.
Sarasota County also saw a significant upset, with Liz Barker defeating incumbent Karen Rose, who had DeSantis' endorsement. This loss in a historically conservative area adds to the growing list of defeats for the governor's slate of candidates.
Pasco County added to the list of losses for DeSantis when incumbent Alison Crumbley was defeated by Jessica Wright. Indian River County saw two incumbents face off with mixed results—while David Dyer unseated Kevin McDonald, Peggy Jones retained her seat against Robert MacCallum, another DeSantis-backed candidate.
Flagler County's race saw DeSantis-backed Derek Barrs lose to Janie Ruddy, while in St. Lucie County, incumbent Jennifer Anne Richardson defeated Nate Spera, who had the governor's support. These losses in smaller counties suggest a broader pattern of resistance to DeSantis' school board endorsements.
In Brevard County, however, there were some positive outcomes for DeSantis. John Thomas, a candidate he supported, won his race outright. Meanwhile, the race between DeSantis-backed Matt Susin and Avanese Taylor is headed to a November runoff.
Several races are set to continue into November runoffs, providing another opportunity for DeSantis-backed candidates. In Lee County, Bill Ribble, supported by the governor, won a seat on the school board. Melisa Giovanelli, also endorsed by DeSantis, retained her position. Vanessa Chaviano, another DeSantis-endorsed candidate, will face Sheridan Chester in a runoff.
In Martin County, Marsha Powers, an incumbent with DeSantis' endorsement, won her race. Hernando County will see Mark Cioffi, another candidate backed by DeSantis, head into a runoff. Miami-Dade County and Volusia County also have runoffs on the horizon, with DeSantis-backed candidates Mary Blanco and Donna Brosemer, respectively, still in the running for school board seats.
Despite these setbacks, DeSantis' spokesman, Jeremy Redfern, maintained a positive outlook, noting that many of the races were in "historically blue districts." He emphasized that the governor's efforts to shift the educational culture would not be limited to "winnable races."
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis faced significant challenges in the recent school board elections. Despite endorsing 23 candidates, the majority were unsuccessful, indicating potential difficulties for his education agenda. Although there were some victories, particularly in Duval County, many DeSantis-backed candidates struggled, especially in key counties like Pinellas and Sarasota.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama is poised to make a highly anticipated address at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on Tuesday night in Chicago.
Axios reported that her appearance was confirmed by a Democratic source following her initial omission from the lineup released on Sunday. Despite her distaste for political life, Michelle Obama's reappearance on the DNC stage underscores her lasting impact on American politics.
The DNC event is set to kick off on Monday, with a series of high-profile speakers taking the stage throughout the week. The convention's lineup, which was unveiled on Sunday morning, outlines the themes and speakers for each night, with Michelle Obama slated to appear during the second night.
The DNC has organized its event around specific nightly themes, starting with Monday's focus on "For the People." This opening night will feature speeches from President Joe Biden, Dr. Jill Biden, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and a welcome from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.
Tuesday night's event, "A Bold Vision for America's Future," will feature Michelle Obama, former President Barack Obama, and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker will open the evening with welcoming remarks. The theme underscores the Democratic Party's forward-looking agenda as it prepares for the 2024 election cycle.
Wednesday's program, under the banner "A Fight for Our Freedoms," will include an acceptance speech from Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz, alongside appearances by Former President Bill Clinton, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. The convention will culminate on Thursday with "For Our Future," where Vice President Kamala Harris will accept the party's nomination for president.
Michelle Obama has consistently been a prominent figure at Democratic conventions since 2008, when her husband, Barack Obama, was first nominated for the presidency. Her speeches have often been delivered during prime-time slots, highlighting her status as a key voice within the party.
Her address at the 2020 convention was particularly notable. In it, she delivered a scathing critique of then-President Donald Trump, describing him as "in over his head." The speech quickly went viral, drawing significant attention on social media and solidifying her role as a powerful advocate for the Democratic cause.
Michelle Obama's upcoming speech on Tuesday is expected to draw similar attention, given her history of delivering impactful messages that resonate with the Democratic base and a broader audience. While the exact content of her speech remains under wraps, it will likely address the current political climate and the party's vision for the future.
Former President Barack Obama will also take the stage on Tuesday night, sharing the spotlight with his wife. His appearance at the DNC is set to be a major highlight as he continues to play a significant role in shaping the Democratic Party's direction.
As the Democratic National Convention unfolds, the lineup of speakers and the themes they will address reflect the party's strategy heading into the 2024 elections. Michelle Obama's address on Tuesday night, alongside Barack Obama's, is set to be a defining moment in the convention, drawing attention to the Democratic Party's vision for America's future.
The convention will feature diverse voices, from current and former leaders to rising stars within the party, all united in their message of progress and determination. With the stakes high, each speech will play a crucial role in setting the tone for the upcoming election cycle.
Michelle Obama's continued presence at the DNC and her past influence signal her ongoing importance in Democratic politics. As the convention progresses, her speech and those of other key figures will help shape the narrative for the Democratic Party as it moves forward.