According to Fox News, Philadelphia's Black-owned radio station WURD has severed ties with host Andrea Lawful-Sanders following revelations that the White House provided her with predetermined questions for an interview with President Biden.
WURD, a prominent Black-owned radio station in Philadelphia, ended its relationship with Andrea Lawful-Sanders. The split followed her admission that the White House gave her pre-determined questions for an interview with President Biden on her show "The Source" last Wednesday.
WURD's president and CEO, Sara M. Lomax, announced on Sunday that Lawful-Sanders and the station had mutually agreed to part ways. Lomax emphasized that WURD is committed to being an independent media outlet and not a mouthpiece for any administration.
Lomax stated, "WURD Radio is not a mouthpiece for Biden or any other administration." She also pointed out that the use of pre-determined questions violated the station's practice of maintaining independence.
Lawful-Sanders had arranged the interview with Biden independently, without the knowledge or collaboration of WURD management. The interview, Biden's first since his recent debate, covered topics like his accomplishments, debate performance, and advice for voters.
The revelation has stirred discussions about media independence and integrity. CNN's Blackwell noted that the questions asked by Lawful-Sanders were similar to those used by another radio host, Earl Ingram, who also received pre-determined questions for his Biden interview.
Biden’s campaign spokesperson, Lauren Hitt, defended the practice, saying it's not uncommon for interviewees to share preferred topics. Hitt remarked:
It’s not at all an uncommon practice for interviewees to share topics they would prefer. These questions were relevant to news of the day - the president was asked about this debate performance as well as what he'd delivered for black Americans.
Lomax stressed the importance of accountability and trust with WURD's audience, built over 20 years. She mentioned that the station would review its policies to reinforce its commitment to independence.
The incident with WURD has broader implications for the media industry, highlighting the delicate balance between access and independence. The use of pre-approved questions, while not illegal, raises ethical questions about journalistic integrity.
Lawful-Sanders' show page was removed from WURD's website by Sunday afternoon, marking the end of her tenure with the station. This move was part of WURD's efforts to maintain its credibility and the trust of its listeners.
Despite the controversy, Biden's campaign continues to defend the practice, arguing that it ensures the relevance of the questions to current events. Hitt noted that the President has participated in unscripted interactions, providing ample opportunities for spontaneous questioning.
The fallout from this incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by media outlets in maintaining independence while gaining access to high-profile figures. WURD's actions reflect a commitment to these principles, even amid difficult decisions.
In conclusion, the separation between WURD and Andrea Lawful-Sanders following the pre-approval of interview questions by the White House has sparked significant discussion about media independence. The incident has led WURD to reinforce its policies and underscores the broader debate on journalistic ethics.
President Joe Biden recently addressed rising concerns about his cognitive abilities and age in a revealing interview with ABC's George Stephanopoulos.
In the interview, Biden stated he would not undergo an independent cognitive test and attributed his debate performance against former President Donald Trump to temporary factors, including exhaustion and illness, as the Washington Examiner reports.
During the ABC interview, Biden was questioned about his mental acuity following the controversial debate with Trump. He firmly stated he would not take an independent cognitive test, emphasizing that he undergoes daily cognitive assessments as part of his routine.
Biden explained that the demands of his dual roles in governing and campaigning, as well as illness, contributed to his subpar debate performance. He also reinforced the importance of the United States on the global stage.
Reflecting on his overall health, Biden admitted he can no longer run as fast as he used to, though he claimed to be in good condition. He challenged Stephanopoulos to keep up with his schedule as proof of his capabilities.
Biden responded to questions on whether he was similar to his former self, affirming that he still achieves significant successes, despite the toll his first term took on his health. He categorized the debate incident as merely a "bad episode" and not a sign of a serious condition.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had previously expressed concern about Biden’s debate performance possibly indicating a health issue. Biden dismissed these concerns, repeating that his poor performance was due to tiredness and not adhering to his instinctive preparation methods.
Following his European trips, Biden spent some downtime at Camp David, where he reportedly felt unwell. His doctors conducted various tests, including for COVID-19 and other infections, but concluded he had only a severe cold.
"Matter of fact, the docs with me, I asked them," Biden recalled. "They did a COVID test because we were trying to figure out what was wrong. They did a test to see whether or not I had some infection, you know, a virus. I didn’t. I just had a really bad cold."
Biden shared that he did not recall watching his debate performance afterward and stated that he did not place any blame on his team for the incident.
In the interview, Biden highlighted that despite the challenges, he remains focused on the campaign and leading the country. He promised his supporters that there is ample time left in the campaign for him to demonstrate his capabilities. "Watch me between — there’s a lot of time left in this campaign," Biden said, denying he is frail.
He reflected on the accomplishments of his tenure and remains confident in his physical condition and cognitive abilities. Biden's standpoint is that the incident was isolated and not reflective of his overall health or capacity to lead the nation.
In summary, Biden declined to commit to an independent cognitive test, attributing his debate performance to exhaustion and illness. He asserted his daily cognitive checks, the significant role of the U.S. on the global stage, and his overall good health. He addressed concerns from Pelosi, discussed the toll of his first term, and assured the public of his continued capabilities.
President Joe Biden is encountering mounting calls to exit the presidential race as worries about his mental and cognitive health intensify.
These concerns were amplified by signs prominently displayed at a recent rally, yet Biden and his staff at the White House remain resolved to continue his campaign, as Mediaite reports.
Biden was en route to Madison, Wisconsin on Friday, where community members were prepared to greet him with signs urging him to end his presidential bid. Biden has been scrutinized increasingly in the wake of last Thursday's debate with Trump, which featured several verbal blunders.
Residents in Madison, Wisconsin, have been vocal about their concerns, holding signs with messages such as “I LOVE YOU JOE, BOW OUT” and “KEEP DEMOCRACY’S FLAME BURNING, PASS THE TORCH.” This public display of sentiment highlights the anxiety many feel regarding Biden’s capabilities.
A recent survey indicates a substantial lack of confidence in Biden’s mental and cognitive abilities, with 72% of Americans doubting his fitness for the presidency. This sentiment is visible in the reluctance of some Democrats to continue supporting his campaign. On Tuesday, Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas became the first active Democrat in Congress to openly suggest President Biden step aside. This bold move adds to the growing chorus of voices from both within the party and the general public urging Biden to consider his position.
Rumors of internal discord among Democrats and a sense of unease among Biden’s campaign staff are growing. Despite this, Biden is adamant about maintaining his bid for re-election.
Biden was set for a televised interview with George Stephanopoulos on ABC News on Friday. During the interview, he attempted to address numerous pressing questions about his intentions to remain in the race.
In a move manifesting his resolve, Biden’s campaign has announced a comprehensive travel itinerary for July, coupled with a substantial $50 million “paid media blitz.” The campaign strategy includes engaging voters through unscripted interactions, aiming to reinforce his commitment to his second term.
Broadcast journalist Boris Sanchez from CNN reported on Friday from Madison, showing crowds awaiting the president’s motorcade. This display featured signage urging Biden to reconsider his campaign.
Eli Stokols from Politico emphasized the gravity of these public reactions from Democrats, indicating a shift in the party’s outward stance on Biden's debate performance. Stokols highlighted the broader sentiment within the Democratic base, which seems to appreciate Biden’s past efforts but doubts his capacity to serve another term. The suggestion for him to step aside comes not from a place of disdain, but from concern for the party's future.
The culmination of local sentiment in Madison, internal party unrest, and public opinion polls, paints a complex picture for Biden’s campaign. His unwavering stance on continuing his campaign amidst these challenges demonstrates his commitment despite the growing calls for him to step down.
As President Joe Biden continues to face mounting pressure and scrutiny, the coming weeks will be critical in determining the course of his campaign. The Friday interview and his planned engagements were expected to play pivotal roles in shaping public and party opinion, but initial reaction to the ABC News sit-down was not overwhelmingly positive.
With residents in Wisconsin, political figures like Rep. Lloyd Doggett, and journalists like Eli Stokols voicing their concerns, the narrative around Biden's suitability for another term remains at the forefront of current political discourse.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange secured his release following a plea deal with U.S. authorities.
According to Fox News, Assange's plea agreement allows him to avoid additional prison time in the U.S. and return to his home in Australia.
On Wednesday, Assange pleaded guilty to a felony charge in the Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands federal court. This plea deal led to his sentencing of time served by U.S. District Judge Ramona Manglona.
Judge Manglona acknowledged the severity of Assange's previous incarceration in the U.K., remarking that it factored into her decision to accept the plea agreement. She stated that the prolonged nature of his detention and the lack of physical harm caused by his actions influenced her judgment.
Assange had been held at Belmarsh Prison in London since April 2019 before being flown to Saipan on a chartered flight to face U.S. charges. The charges included 17 counts of violating the Espionage Act and one count of conspiracy to commit computer intrusion, stemming from WikiLeaks' 2010 release of classified U.S. documents leaked by Chelsea Manning.
The documents publicly detailed alleged war crimes and instances of torture by the U.S. government. As part of the plea deal, Assange agreed to destroy any classified information that had been provided to WikiLeaks.
The Justice Department disclosed the plea arrangement on Monday night. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia expressed his relief and support for the judgment, emphasizing that Assange's continued incarceration served no purpose.
Stella Assange, Julian's wife, expressed her relief regarding the deal, stating that it had been a tense period for the family, with uncertainty about whether the agreement would go through. Assange’s attorney, Jennifer Robinson, also expressed immense satisfaction that Assange can now reunite with his family in Australia.
Seth Stern, head of advocacy at the Freedom of the Press Foundation, criticized the prosecution yet acknowledged that ending the legal pursuit was a relief. Ben Wizner, who leads the ACLU’s Speech, Privacy, and Technology Project, shared similar sentiments, stressing that the activities Assange admitted to are fundamental to investigative journalism.
Judge Manglona emphasized the temporal aspect of her decision, suggesting that her view of the case might have been different had it occurred closer to when the acts were initially committed. Her remarks about the absence of a personal victim reinforced the decision. She reminded the court that it's 2024, implying the lengthy duration of proceedings weighed heavily on her mind.
President Obama had previously refrained from charging Assange for the 2010 leaks. This was consistent with his commutation of Chelsea Manning's sentence in January 2017.
Looking forward, Assange’s return to Australia is welcomed by supporters who view this outcome as a victory for free speech and press freedom. Meanwhile, critics continue to reflect on the broader implications for national security and the boundaries of investigative journalism.
In summary, Julian Assange’s guilty plea ends his imprisonment and extradition battle, steadfastly supported by prominent figures in advocacy and politics. He leaves behind a contentious legacy that sparks ongoing debate in journalism and national security circles.
On Tuesday afternoon, President Joe Biden's official White House X account committed an embarrassing error in a now-deleted post.
As reported by Fox News, President Biden's account mistakenly referred to a federal judge's decision as a ruling by the Supreme Court before quickly deleting and correcting the post.
The incorrect post aimed to address a preliminary injunction issued by a Louisiana federal judge. This injunction temporarily paused the White House's ban on new liquefied natural gas exports.
The case was brought forward by sixteen Republican-led states, which stood against Biden’s limitations on energy projects. The White House X account inaccurately described the ruling as a "Supreme Court ruling" rather than a federal court decision.
The original post read:
Yesterday's Supreme Court ruling on our pause on Liquified Natural Gas exports is incredibly disappointing. I'll continue doing everything I can to protect our environment and our communities, while ensuring America’s energy security.
Realizing the error, the account swiftly deleted the post and published a corrected version, omitting the mention of the Supreme Court. The corrected statement properly referred to it as "yesterday’s court ruling."
Despite the swift correction, screenshots of the original post were captured and circulated by social media users, drawing widespread attention to the mistake. The community note attached to the shared images clarified, "This was not a Supreme Court decision. It was a federal judge in Louisiana."
Public figures and commentators quickly chimed in with their reactions. David Pivtorak remarked, "Good lord even the X account has dementia," while Paul Szypula added, "Wow, even his interns have cognitive issues."
The popular Libs of TikTok account noted: "Biden just deleted this post after confusing the Supreme Court with a Federal Court. This case literally had nothing to do with the Supreme Court." Christopher Calvin Reid expressed: "Biden's staff is just as inattentive to detail as he is."
Chaya Raichik criticized the error, questioning, "Which DEI hire is responsible for this." Michael D. Brown speculated: "Maybe Hunter Biden is now doing POTUS’ social media…"
Courtney Holland also commented on the mistake, stating: "The Biden team, in a now deleted post, confused a federal court decision with a SCOTUS decision. Not the best timing."
Overall, the gaffe and the subsequent correction have opened a dialogue about President Biden's and his administration's competence. As screenshots of the initial error continue to spread across social media, it remains to be seen how the White House will address the fallout from this mistake.
In summary, Biden’s White House X account mistakenly referred to a federal judge's ruling as a Supreme Court decision, leading to a swift deletion and correction. The lawsuit challenging the White House’s energy policies involved sixteen Republican states. Despite the swift correction, social media reactions highlighted the mistake, further fueling ongoing concerns regarding Biden's mental acuity ahead of the political battle for the presidency.