A tweet from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has ignited speculation about Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro potentially being named Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate.
The confusion arose after Parker's tweet appeared to announce Shapiro for the vice-presidential spot alongside Harris, causing outrage among many who wondered about the potential motivations for the leak, as the Daily Mail reports.
The tweet from Parker explicitly supported Kamala Harris for President and Josh Shapiro for vice president, paired with a video ending that called for support for Shapiro as the ticket's number two. This unexpected incident led journalists and political onlookers to question if an early announcement had been made.
Journalist Ernest Owens clarified that the message had been scheduled for release on Monday but was mistakenly posted ahead of time. The post was quickly reframed as an endorsement message rather than an official statement announcing Shapiro's selection for the vice-presidential role.
Sources further elaborated on the situation, asserting that the post was only a display of backing for Shapiro, who is said to be one of the individuals considered for the VP slot. The Harris campaign has reportedly vetted Shapiro, leading some to believe he holds a favorable position for the nomination.
Ahead of this development, Gov. Shapiro canceled previously scheduled fundraisers in the Hamptons. This decision spurred additional assumptions that it might relate to the vice-presidential selection process. Nevertheless, his team, represented by spokesperson Manuel Bonder, dismissed these connections. "The Governor’s trip was planned several weeks ago and included several fundraisers for his own campaign committee," Bonder noted.
Harris is expected to reveal her running mate early next week. Plans indicate she will journey with her chosen VP to seven critical regions, with indications that Philadelphia will be their initial destination. This connection has driven more conjecture about Shapiro being the likely pick.
Shapiro's strong performance in previous elections, notably outstripping President Joseph Biden's numbers in western Pennsylvania during the 2022 race, makes him a significant figure in the political landscape. His success in suburban and exurban regions around Philadelphia bolsters his appeal.
Betting markets favor Shapiro, and former politicians including Ed Rendell, the former governor of Pennsylvania, have discussed his prospects. These factors contribute to the continuous buzz surrounding his potential nomination.
Despite his high-profile, fully engaged supporters, Shapiro's campaign team maintains that the recent changes in his schedule and activities are routine and not linked to the vice-presidential nomination developments.
Cherelle Parker's tweet caused a flurry of speculation due to its seemingly premature vice-presidential announcement. Parker later reassured her audience that her post was purely an endorsement and not an official declaration from the Harris campaign.
The Philadelphia Inquirer quoted sources who reiterated this interpretation, portraying Parker's message as support for a "longtime friend" in Shapiro, while underscoring that this wasn't an official announcement of his vice-presidential candidacy.
This incident concludes with Harris's anticipated announcement next week, and the political landscape remains abuzz with this fluid situation. With Shapiro's sudden schedule changes, public appearances, and Harris’s impending declaration, the forthcoming days remain pivotal.
An Instagram post falsely claimed that First Lady Jill Biden was in two places at the same time.
USA Today's fact-checking confirmed that the images were captured on separate days, showing Jill Biden in Washington, D.C., on July 24 and in Paris on July 25.
On July 29, an Instagram post circulated two images of Jill Biden: one showing her hugging a man in a white shirt with red and blue stripes and another with her standing behind President Joe Biden in a blue suit. The post misleadingly claimed that the First Lady was simultaneously in Paris alone and at the White House with Joe Biden.
The post gained traction quickly, receiving over 100 likes within two days. However, a thorough fact-check determined the claim was false. The photos were indeed of Jill Biden but were taken on different days.
The images show Jill Biden with President Joe Biden in Washington, D.C., on July 24, and in Paris on July 25. On July 24, President Joe Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office at about 8 p.m. EDT, followed by a greeting of staff in the Rose Garden. One of the photos in the Instagram post captures this moment.
Shelley Greenspan posted Footage from this event on X at 9:17 p.m. EDT on July 24, confirming Jill Biden’s presence at the White House that evening. The following day, Jill Biden flew to France as scheduled to lead the U.S. presidential delegation for the opening of the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Another image from the Instagram post shows Jill Biden deplaning in France. Vanessa Valdivia posted a photograph on X of Jill Biden walking down the plane's stairs at 5:22 a.m. EDT on July 25.
The Instagram post did not provide evidence to support the claim that the images were taken simultaneously. The timing and location of the photos were independently verified through other sources, proving the falsehood of the simultaneous claim.
Attempts to reach the Instagram user who shared the post were unsuccessful. The original X user who posted the images did not respond to requests for comment either.
PolitiFact, a well-known fact-checking organization, also debunked the claim, reinforcing the conclusion that Jill Biden was not in two places at once.
Misleading claims on social media are not uncommon, and this incident underscores the importance of verifying information before sharing it widely. The claim that Jill Biden was in both Washington, D.C. and Paris at the same time was quickly disproven through readily available evidence.
Jill Biden’s itinerary was public knowledge, with her scheduled presence at the opening of the 2024 Paris Olympics being well-documented. The verification of the dates and locations of the photos involved simple cross-referencing with known public events and official postings.
An Instagram post falsely claimed that Jill Biden was in two places at the same time, but fact-checking revealed the truth. The images were taken on different days, with Jill Biden in Washington, D.C., on July 24 and in Paris on July 25. Despite lacking evidence to support its claim, the misleading post received over 100 likes. Verification from multiple sources, including PolitiFact, confirmed that Jill Biden was not in two places simultaneously. This incident underscores the need for careful evaluation of social media content to prevent the spread of misinformation.
NBC News reported that incumbent Stephen Richer had been defeated by State Rep. Justin Heap in the Republican primary for Maricopa County recorder.
Stephen Richer, who served as Maricopa County recorder, was unseated in the Republican primary. Richer lost to State Representative Justin Heap, who secured 42.4% of the vote compared to Richer's 35.9%. An additional candidate, Don Hiatt, garnered 21.8% of the vote.
Richer has been a staunch defender of the swing state's election integrity and has consistently opposed unfounded allegations of voter fraud stemming from the 2020 and 2022 elections.
In contrast, Heap has been a critic of Maricopa County's election process and has refrained from taking a clear stance on the legitimacy of the 2020 election.
Heap received significant endorsements from influential Arizona Republicans, including Kari Lake, who is currently running for U.S. Senate. Kari Lake endorsed Heap, stating, "I am endorsing Justin Heap for the Maricopa County recorder because we want honest elections. We need a heap of honesty in our elections." This endorsement is indicative of the deep divisions within the party concerning election integrity.
The primary race for Maricopa County recorder, typically uneventful, became contentious this year as the county emerged as a focal point for election fraud claims. This resulted in increased scrutiny and pressure on the office and its incumbent, Stephen Richer.
During Arizona's 2022 election, malfunctions with ballot printers and vote tabulation machines prompted baseless claims of malevolent activity, pushing conspiracy theories against Richer. These allegations contributed to a highly charged atmosphere surrounding the primary election.
Richer faced death threats and continuous attacks throughout his tenure, including a particularly egregious threat from Shelby Busch, chair of Arizona's delegation to the 2024 Republican National Convention. At a live-streamed event on Rumble in Mesa on March 20, Busch threatened to "lynch" Richer.
This volatile environment has led to a difficult and dangerous election cycle for those involved in Maricopa County's electoral process. Despite the opposition, Richer maintained his defense of the county's election procedures until the end.
In a late June debate, Justin Heap argued that Richer's track record had harmed Arizona's national standing. Heap emphasized his concerns by stating, "I’m running for this office because Maricopa County’s elections made us a national laughing stock."
With the primary behind them, Justin Heap will now face Democrat Tim Stringham in the general election. Stringham encountered no competition within his party’s primary, setting the stage for a significant battle in the upcoming election.
The clash over the position of Maricopa County recorder underscores broader tensions within the political landscape regarding election integrity and security. Both candidates will likely center their campaigns around these highly scrutinized issues.
Stephen Richer's loss marks a notable shift in the direction of Maricopa County's election oversight, particularly as it relates to the ongoing debates about the fairness and accuracy of recent elections. Meanwhile, Justin Heap's victory may signal a shift towards more aggressive oversight and potential changes in how elections are conducted in Maricopa County.
Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a rallying speech that underscored her determination and resilience at a vital fundraising event.
NPR reported that Vice President Harris called herself an underdog with momentum, speaking boldly about the stakes of the presidential election and brushing off Donald Trump's latest attacks.
Held at the Colonial Theatre in Pittsfield, Mass., the event marked a significant step in Harris' campaign. Roughly 800 supporters gathered on Saturday to hear Harris make her case for why she believes her campaign is gaining momentum despite the challenges ahead.
Harris set an ambitious goal for the evening to raise over $1.4 million. The energized and supportive attendees served as a testament to the grassroots support she highlighted during her speech.
During her address, Harris presented her campaign as a stark choice between two distinct visions for America. She spoke about the need for continued progress and called for unity in confronting threats to freedoms.
"We got a fight ahead of us and we are the underdogs in this race," Harris declared with resolve. She painted a vivid picture of the contrast between her vision and that of her opponents, emphasizing the necessity of a forward-thinking agenda.
Central to her message were themes of freedom, including voting rights, protection from gun violence, and reproductive freedom. Harris stressed these issues as integral to her platform, advocating for a country rooted in compassion and lawful governance.
Harris did not shy away from criticizing former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance. She accused them of attempting to roll back societal progress and instigating chaos, fear, and hatred.
"Do we want to live in a country of freedom, compassion and rule of law or a country of chaos, fear and hate?" Harris asked, challenging the crowd to reflect on the values they wish to uphold.
She addressed Trump's rhetoric head-on, referring to his claims about her record as "wild lies." Harris reassured her audience that the integrity of her campaign remained intact despite such attacks.
Embracing her role as the underdog, Harris rallied her supporters by highlighting the grassroots nature of her campaign. She expressed confidence that this approach would generate the momentum needed for a victory in November.
"This campaign is not just about us vs. Donald Trump," Harris stated, reiterating that the stakes extend far beyond a simple political contest. For Harris, the election represents a pivotal moment in defining the nation’s future trajectory.
Vice President Kamala Harris' first fundraising event as the Democratic presidential candidate was a pivotal moment that underscored her campaign's themes of progress, freedom, and compassion. She positioned herself as a resilient underdog ready to confront challenges and emphasized the stark contrast between her vision and that of her opponent, Donald Trump.
Fox 2 Detroit morning anchor Amy Andrews has recently shared the heartbreaking reason behind her absence from the airwaves was because of severe depression and anxiety.
Daily Mail reported that Andrews, who is well-known for her advocacy on mental health issues, revealed she has temporarily left her post to focus on treatment and recovery.
On Sunday, Amy Andrews publicly announced her condition and the need to step back from her duties at Fox 2 Detroit. Andrews expressed her sincere commitment to addressing her mental health struggles in order to return to her viewers in good health.
In an emotional post, Andrews admitted that her severe depression and anxiety had resurfaced, compelling her to take a necessary break. “I’ve stepped away from the anchor desk temporarily to battle with all I have,” she shared, articulating her determination to regain stability and return to the morning show.
This isn't the first time Andrews has faced such challenges. On May 18, she had announced a brief hiatus to address health issues but had returned to the air after what she hoped had been enough time to heal.
The Detroit community is familiar with her candid discussions about mental health. She has consistently utilized her platform to advocate for mental health awareness.
In June 2022, Andrews managed to come back to work after enduring similar battles. Her history of openness regarding her personal mental health struggles has already inspired many of her viewers.
Going back to 2019, Amy Andrews participated in a charity walk at Detroit's riverfront in support of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). This foundation aims to raise awareness and support for those struggling with mental health issues.
Andrews has drawn strength from her interactions with the audience and community throughout her journey. Speaking about her colleague Jessica Starr, who tragically died by suicide in 2018, Andrews urged everyone to be kinder and more understanding as people often battle unseen struggles.
In 2018, she took to social media to encourage open conversations about mental health. “You can have a #RealConvo with me today and any day if you’re feeling bad or have questions,” Andrews posted, underlining her commitment to being approachable and supportive.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Michigan Chapter has recognized Andrews for her relentless advocacy. On July 19, they extended their gratitude to her, stating, “Thank you, Amy, for being such a fierce mental health warrior."
The response to Andrews' latest announcement has been overwhelmingly supportive. Viewers, colleagues, and mental health advocates have rallied around her, offering words of encouragement and understanding.
Andrews has not shied away from sharing her vulnerabilities. "We never know what others are dealing with," she wrote, emphasizing the need for compassion. She also thanked Fox 2 Detroit for their understanding and for giving her the much-needed time away to focus on her well-being.
In conclusion, Amy Andrews' announcement illuminates the ongoing struggles of mental health, further reinforcing her role as a prominent advocate. Her sense of duty to her well-being and her viewers is commendable. The Detroit community and beyond continue to support Andrews, anxiously awaiting her return to the morning news.
According to Just The News, the GOP-led House ended its session before the August recess without completing the 12 appropriations bills, breaking its promise to voters.
This situation heightens the likelihood of Congress resorting to another temporary Continuing Resolution to keep federal operations afloat.
Last October, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., assured colleagues that the House would not go on August recess unless all 12 appropriations bills were passed. However, the Republicans in the House canceled votes for the following week and will reconvene in early September, cutting short their session initially scheduled to last until August 1.
Federal appropriations are set to expire on September 30. So far, only five of the 12 appropriations bills for the fiscal year 2025 have passed in the House. To avoid a government shutdown, a continuing resolution must be passed by October 1, with Congress returning from recess on September 9.
House Republicans have faced internal conflicts over budget negotiations, leading to disruptions in the process. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., lost his position due to disagreements over spending cuts within the party. Speaker Johnson nearly faced a similar fate, as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., threatened to oust him after he supported a $1.2 trillion "minibus" spending package.
Last Wednesday, Republicans managed to pass one of the fiscal year 2025 spending bills after several failed or tied votes. According to an unnamed Republican lawmaker, the vote saw significant pressure from the whip team on members of different factions, including the Freedom Caucus and moderates.
Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., mentioned that he has refrained from bringing forth bills that might fail due to lack of support. Earlier in the week, the House postponed a vote on the Department of Energy funding bill over concerns about its cost.
Disagreements among GOP lawmakers regarding abortion and contraceptive protections in certain legislations have further hindered progress on appropriations measures.
Several crucial funding bills were put on hold due to internal conflicts. Bills intended to fund the Agriculture Department, the Food and Drug Administration, and Financial Services were not taken up as initially planned. Earlier in the month, the House failed to pass a $7 billion funding bill for parts of the legislative branch after 10 Republicans joined Democrats in voting against it.
The last vote before the recess involved a resolution criticizing Vice President Kamala Harris' performance as "border czar," which passed 220-196 with support from six Democrats. According to Managing Editor Kyle Kondik, this failure to pass the appropriations bills is unlikely to impact the 2024 elections, as internal GOP procedural issues are often not significant electorally. Kondik further commented that Republican voters usually do not pay close attention to the inner workings of the House.
With Congress scheduled to return on September 9, the House faces a tight deadline to pass a continuing resolution by October 1. Speaker Johnson's assurance last October sets the stage for a pressing situation as they return with only a few weeks to finalize appropriations measures.
Despite the setbacks, Republicans must navigate internal disagreements and work against the clock to prevent a government shutdown. The challenges faced in advancing appropriations bills underscore the party’s internal struggle and the pressure leaders face in aligning the interests of different factions.
The GOP-led House failed to pass all 12 appropriations bills before the August recess amid internal conflicts and disagreements over budget allocations. This increases the risk of passing another temporary Continuing Resolution to avoid a government shutdown when Congress reconvenes in September. Despite passing some spending bills, significant appropriations measures remain unaddressed.
A watchdog group has leveled serious accusations against the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA).
The Freedom Foundation has charged the PSEA with illegally moving $1.5 million to support the 2022 campaign of Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro, now rumored as a potential vice-presidential candidate, as the Daily Caller reports.
In complaints filed last Thursday, the Freedom Foundation alleged multiple violations of state and federal laws. The group believes that the PSEA funneled significant funds to back Shapiro, who is now considered to be on Kamala Harris' shortlist for VP.
Maxford Nelsen, the Freedom Foundation’s Director of Research and Government Affairs, has been vocal about these allegations. He asserts that PSEA engaged in a “scheme to secretly launder nearly $1.5 million” via the Democratic Governors Association (DGA). He contends that these actions defied numerous Pennsylvania laws and the Internal Revenue Code.
The funds were reportedly channeled to the Fund For Student Success (FSS), a PSEA-created entity, in May 2022. The FSS then allegedly forwarded the same amount to the DGA, which eventually donated $5.6 million to Shapiro’s campaign. The Freedom Foundation’s complaints highlight these transactions as a breach of both the Pennsylvania Election Code and Pennsylvania Public Employee Relations Act.
The Freedom Foundation did not stop at reporting to one authority. Complaints were filed not only with the FBI and IRS but also with Pennsylvania's attorney general, the Dauphin County district attorney, and the Pennsylvania secretary of state’s office. The watchdog group insists that the PSEA’s use of general treasury funds for political contributions is illegal under section 43 P.S. § 1101.1701.
Moreover, the FSS is accused of failing to register as a political committee. The Freedom Foundation also alleges that the FSS filed fraudulent tax returns, suggesting the funds were directed to Put Pennsylvania First instead of the DGA.
The issue extends beyond the PSEA and FSS. The DGA is also implicated in filing incomplete reports. The Freedom Foundation’s complaints indicate this could amount to criminal perjury or making false statements, as per Pennsylvania statutes 18 Pa.C.S.A. §§ 4902 and/or 4904. These discrepancies raise significant concerns about the transparency and legality of the entire funding process supporting Shapiro's campaign.
Freedom Foundation Director Maxford Nelsen condemned the PSEA's actions, remarking on the apparent disregard for both their members and Pennsylvania law. Nelsen emphasized that Pennsylvania teachers should feel confident that their dues are not being covertly used to back political candidates.
The entities involved have so far remained silent. Neither Gov. Shapiro’s office nor the PSEA responded to requests for comment. This ongoing silence adds to the gravity of the situation, leaving many questions unanswered about the integrity of the election process and the use of union funds.
The Freedom Foundation’s complaints insist that the PSEA executives' actions show a significant contempt for both their members and the law. This has become a matter of public interest given the amount involved and the potential impact on future political campaigns and union fund utilization.
This case underlines the importance of accountability within organizations that deal with substantial monetary contributions and political influence. As the investigation proceeds, the responses of the implicated organizations and individuals will be crucial in determining the outcomes and potential repercussions.
The implications of these accusations are far-reaching. The involvement of high-ranking officials and significant sums of money highlight the potential for ongoing scrutiny and legal actions. The financial contributions and political maneuvers detailed in these complaints may ignite a broader discussion on the regulatory oversight of campaign finances and union activities within Pennsylvania and beyond.
President Joe Biden paid tribute to Ambassador Martin Indyk, a renowned Middle East peace negotiator, following his passing from cancer complications.
In the wake of his death, Indyk’s legacy is being marked by his extensive contributions to White House Middle East peace efforts over the years, mentoring, and influence on U.S. foreign policy, as The Hill reports.
On Friday, Biden lauded the significant contributions of Indyk, who died on Thursday, as a Special Envoy for Israeli-Palestinian Negotiations during the Obama administration. Indyk also served twice as the U.S. ambassador to Israel during the Clinton administration, showcasing his long-standing commitment to Middle East peace.
Indyk's influence stretched beyond his official roles, mentoring numerous current administration officials and scholars dedicated to Middle East policy. Born in Australia, his experiences during the 1973 Yom Kippur War deeply impacted his dedication to peace efforts.
In addition to his diplomatic service, Indyk was a vocal critic of Israeli policies that he believed hindered peace. He notably criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for not supporting the establishment of a Palestinian state and recently condemned Israel's rejection of a Saudi peace offer.
Indyk’s career began in Washington as the founding executive director of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. His tenure in the Clinton administration saw him taking a crucial role during pivotal moments, such as the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.
Former President Bill Clinton expressed his gratitude for Indyk’s unwavering dedication to peace, highlighting his skill and perseverance in the face of obstacles. Clifton's sentiment was echoed by other notable diplomats who praised Indyk's contributions.
President Biden emphasized Indyk’s enduring impact, noting his unshakeable optimism and commitment to peace. He lauded Indyk’s ability to inspire and educate others, solidifying his legacy in U.S. foreign policy.
Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz recalled a meeting with Indyk earlier in the year, praising his deep commitment to Israel’s security and future. This personal connection underscored Indyk's strategic and personal importance to Israeli-U.S. relations.
Indyk held senior roles at prestigious institutions such as the Brookings Institution and the Council on Foreign Relations. His academic contributions included authoring works on American peace diplomacy and former President Barack Obama’s foreign policy. Aaron David Miller, in a social media post, mourned Indyk's passing and celebrated their shared dedication to Arab-Israeli peacemaking. Dennis Ross similarly praised Indyk’s life dedicated to fostering peace between Israel and its neighbors.
Robert Satloff underscored Indyk’s significant imprint on American Middle East policy, attributing any progress in the volatile region to Indyk’s substantial contributions. Indyk’s voice of clarity and conviction had been a guiding light during recent conflicts.
Indyk’s eloquent posts on social media continued to reflect his commitment to peace until his final days. In May, he lamented Israel's missed opportunity to accept a peace offer from Saudi Arabia, urging Israeli leaders to reconsider their course.
As the world reflects on Martin Indyk’s life, his enduring impact on Middle East diplomacy and U.S. foreign policy is unmistakable. His dedication to peace and mentorship will continue to inspire future generations of diplomats and policymakers.
President Joe Biden's initiative to reform the Supreme Court hits a significant roadblock.
According to the Washington Examiner, Biden’s efforts to enact Supreme Court legislative changes are hampered by the Republican-majority House.
President Biden has proposed several reforms targeting the highest court in the land. His plan includes setting term limits for justices, instituting an enforceable ethics code, and eliminating presidential immunity through a constitutional amendment.
During a White House press briefing this Wednesday, Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, was questioned about President Biden's dedication to these reforms. Jean-Pierre reiterated Biden's commitment to high ethical standards for public officials but did not offer detailed policy updates.
Jean-Pierre stated, "The president believes that when you hold a high office, you should be held by a certain ethics and transparency." She underscored the importance of these principles without revealing new policy directions.
The Democratic Party's push for a Supreme Court ethics code has intensified following controversies involving Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito. These issues have eroded public trust and underscored the need for reform among supporters.
Justice Thomas has come under fire for allegedly accepting lavish gifts from wealthy benefactors without proper disclosure, which he argues was not required. Meanwhile, Justice Alito has been urged by Democrats to step aside from a case linked to January 6 due to a flag linked to Capitol rioters being seen outside one of his properties. Alito has attributed this to his spouse.
Neither Justice Thomas nor Justice Alito has indicated any plans to resign. This lack of movement adds to the Democrats' mounting frustration over the absence of enforceable ethical standards.
Establishing term limits for Supreme Court justices has become a top priority for many Democratic lawmakers. Senator Alex Padilla tabled a bill last year proposing 18-year service limits for Supreme Court justices as a means to inject regularity and predictability into the Judicial branch.
Despite the potential impact of these reforms, the likelihood of their passing remains bleak. The current Republican majority in the House poses a significant barrier to the enactment of Biden's proposals in the foreseeable future.
Though political dynamics are not in Biden's favor for these Supreme Court reforms, he is no stranger to overcoming legislative hurdles. The president has already navigated a challenging political environment to sign off on landmark pieces of legislation.
Jean-Pierre acknowledged the challenges, saying, "The president has gotten a lot done, and historic pieces of legislation have been passed. That wasn't done with an easy political climate." She hinted at future announcements about upcoming legislative initiatives without providing specifics.
President Biden's ambitious legislative effort aims to reshape the Supreme Court by proposing term limits, enforceable ethics codes, and eradicating presidential immunity. During a Wednesday briefing, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reaffirmed Biden’s commitment to ethical standards without specifying policy actions. Democrats' pleas for an ethics code follow scandals involving Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, with Republicans in the House limiting the prospects of swift legislative progress.
A recent appearance on Fox Business became highly controversial due to remarks made about Vice President Kamala Harris.
The Daily Mail reported that on July 5, guest Alec Lace referred to Harris as the "original Hawk Tuah girl," sparking significant debate about her history and the future of her political career.
During a segment discussing President Joe Biden's debate performance and the Democratic Party's future, Alec Lace criticized Vice President Harris, likening her to Hailey Welch, a figure known for her sexual commentary. Lace described Harris as the “original Hawk Tuah girl."
Fox host Dagen McDowell intervened with, "That was harsh," acknowledging the severity of Lace's comment. Harsh or not, Lace made it clear that voters can't allow Democrats to whitewash Harris's past.
Harris owes her career in politics to former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown whom she became infamous for sleeping with. Without him, it's unlikely that she would be where she is today.
Lace's comment quickly drew attention on social media. Posting on X, previously known as Twitter, Lace questioned whether he was out of line or simply addressing a pivotal issue regarding Harris. He asked, "Did I go too far on FOX News calling Kamala Harris the OG Hawk Tuah girl or am I right over the target?"
The remarks gained momentum as President Biden’s announcement that he would not seek re-election positioned Harris as a potential successor.
This has intensified scrutiny over her past, particularly her relationship with former San Francisco mayor Willie Brown, a long-standing point of contention.
Harris has often been criticized, notably by political figures including former President Donald Trump. Trump has not shied away from using her past relationship with Brown as a point of attack.
Harris and Brown's relationship, which ended decades ago, has continued to be a subject of public and media interest. Brown, during the mid-1990s, was a powerful political figure, while Harris was an emerging prosecutor. Their relationship, which Brown acknowledged in a 2019 op-ed, has cast a long shadow over Harris's career.
Brown appointed Harris to two key positions during their relationship.
However, Harris has maintained that his influence did not shape her independent political trajectory. How she can claim that knowing he gave her jobs during their relationship speaks to the dishonesty surrounding this episode.
The relationship's baggage resurfaced with commentary by Trump, who recently referenced Harris's association with Brown, questioning her political achievements and independence.
Harris has been vocal about distancing herself from Brown's political legacy. In 2003, she stated, "I refuse to design my campaign around criticizing Willie Brown for the sake of appearing to be independent when I have no doubt that I am independent of him." She emphasized her autonomy in her political decisions.
The resurfacing of Harris and Brown’s past relationship underscores the challenges female politicians face regarding their personal lives and professional achievements. Harris's relationship with Brown ended years ago, and although Brown was separated from his wife at the time, the discourse around it remains potent.
Despite this, Harris has emphasized her independence and capabilities, stating her refusal to be tethered to past relationships. She married entertainment lawyer Doug Emhoff in 2014, further committing to her own life path.
The comments made by Alec Lace have ignited significant debate regarding sexism and the scrutiny faced by female politicians. The controversy surrounding Harris's past continues to influence her current political narrative.
Lace’s comments about Harris have incited discussions on social media and across political commentators regarding the implications and appropriateness of his remarks. The incident highlights ongoing issues of gender and political rhetoric in the United States.
This attention on Harris's past comes during a crucial period as the Democratic Party seeks a nominee for the upcoming presidential election.
Harris's historical relationship with Brown, and her defensive stance, perpetuate conversation about her political journey and future.
Alec Lace's statement has brought both criticism and defense from various quarters, exemplifying the complexities and challenges in American political discourse related to personal histories and public perceptions.
Amidst this controversy, Harris remains a significant figure in American politics, with her past and present continually scrutinized and evaluated as she potentially steps into a larger role within the Democratic Party.