Two Democratic senators have requested a criminal investigation into Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.
The senators are concerned about potential ethics and tax law violations related to Thomas' receipt of luxury gifts, as Forbes reports.
Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) sent a request to Attorney General Merrick Garland for the appointment of a special counsel. This request, submitted on Wednesday, seeks to explore possible breaches of federal ethics and tax regulations by Justice Clarence Thomas.
Justice Thomas has faced scrutiny for accepting luxury vacations and other significant gifts from affluent friends, many of which were reportedly undisclosed. Whitehouse and Wyden argue that Thomas's actions may violate the Ethics in Government Act, which mandates the reporting of gifts and external income sources.
The controversy includes payments made by judicial activist Leonard Leo to a consulting firm managed by Thomas' wife, Ginni Thomas. Additionally, there is a question regarding a recreational vehicle loan from one of Thomas’ wealthy friends, which may not have been fully repaid. The senators have also pointed to potential breaches of federal tax laws and statutes against making false declarations. The publicized letter addressed to Garland came out on Tuesday.
It remains uncertain whether Garland will appoint a special counsel or initiate the investigation himself. He is not legally obligated to pursue the matter. Should Garland choose not to act, Democratic lawmakers have limited avenues for recourse, given Republican resistance to implementing a judicial ethics code. The Judicial Conference has also been called upon to investigate Thomas, possibly engaging Garland in the process.
Justice Thomas has refuted any allegations of misconduct, asserting that he accepted hospitality from long-time friends. He has claimed that the previous guidelines did not require him to disclose such gifts.
Thomas has reported several trips with Harlan Crow in his 2022 financial disclosure, adhering to new reporting criteria. Crow has also denied any improper conduct, stating he would never discuss judicial matters with Thomas.
Forbes estimates Justice Thomas's net worth at approximately $4 million. The broader ethical debate encompasses other justices, such as Samuel Alito, who faced criticism for his alleged connections with hedge fund manager Paul Singer and the "Stop the Steal" movement.
Public trust in the Supreme Court has been faltering in recent years. This has prompted Democratic lawmakers to advocate for a binding code of ethics for the justices, although the recently announced Supreme Court code has been criticized for lacking enforcement mechanisms.
In summary, Sens. Whitehouse and Wyden have formally requested that Attorney General Garland appoint a special counsel to investigate potential ethics and tax law violations by Justice Thomas over the acceptance of luxury gifts.
The request follows a series of reports about unreported luxury vacations and other gifts received by Thomas from wealthy acquaintances. Despite the allegations, Justice Thomas denies any wrongdoing, claiming he believed he was not required to report the gifts under the previous rules.
Garland's decision on whether to appoint a special counsel remains uncertain. The complexities of the situation highlight the remarkable tensions regarding judicial ethics and public trust in the nation's highest court.
In a dramatic courtroom decision, Judge Mary Marlowe Sonner has permanently dismissed the involuntary manslaughter case against actor Alec Baldwin, related to the fatal shooting on the Rust film set.
Judge Sonner's ruling, rooted in a significant Brady violation concerning undisclosed evidence, concludes Alec Baldwin cannot be retried on these charges, as AV Club reports.
Baldwin faced severe legal scrutiny after the tragic incident on the set of Rust, where cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was fatally shot. The case took a turn when the concept of "with prejudice" was applied, ensuring that the dismissal is final, and Baldwin cannot be subject to future prosecution on the same grounds.
The decisive factor for this dismissal was a so-called Brady violation. By definition, such a violation occurs when the prosecution fails to disclose evidence that could be beneficial to the defense. In Baldwin's case, this undisclosed evidence involved live ammunition similar to what was found on set.
Further deepening the complexity of the case, the violation involved live bullets, which matched those found on set. These were supplied to investigators by an associate of armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed but never made it to Baldwin’s defense team. This significant oversight prompted a reevaluation of the case’s integrity.
During her testimony, Morrissey unexpectedly disclosed her personal admiration for Baldwin, specifically mentioning her enjoyment of his film roles and his performances on "Saturday Night Live." This confession, given under oath, added a layer of controversy to the proceedings, coming from someone deeply involved in the case.
The day was further marred by the sudden resignation of Prosecutor Erlinda Ocampo Johnson. Her departure coincided with escalating defense arguments centered on the potential Brady violation, suggesting turmoil within the prosecution team.
The 'with prejudice' nature of the dismissal carries profound implications. It not only halts this case but also prevents Baldwin from being subjected to future prosecution on the same charges under U.S. law. This legal protection is pivotal, offering Baldwin closure on a national legal drama.
Such dismissals are not issued lightly and signify a fundamental flaw or mishandling within the prosecutorial process. In Baldwin's case, the oversight of not divulging critical evidence was seen as severe enough to warrant a complete dismissal.
The case against Baldwin has been closely followed by the public and the media, spotlighting not only legal proceedings but also safety protocols in film production. The actor's situation also stirred debates on responsibility and accountability in such tragic incidents within the entertainment industry.
With the judge's decision to dismiss the case 'with prejudice,' Baldwin is legally cleared from these specific charges, allowing him to focus on professional and personal recovery from the incident that captured public and media attention worldwide.
This case, marked by procedural anomalies and legal controversies, has underscored the importance of fairness and transparency in the judicial process. The unique aspects of the testimony, including a prosecutor’s self-subpoena and subsequent revelations, will likely become a subject of legal discussions and studies for years to come.
In conclusion, the dismissal of the charges against Alec Baldwin ends a significant chapter in a saga that has riveted the nation. The case's closure is underscored by critical judicial and procedural insights, particularly regarding the handling and disclosure of evidence in criminal proceedings. Baldwin's exoneration on these grounds sets a notable precedent and brings a controversial legal battle to its end.
Alex Jones, a far-right podcaster known for his conspiracy theories, has been sharply criticized following a livestream he hosted called "Assassinate Biden."
According to Raw Story, the show's title prompted widespread demands for an investigation and fueled a significant public uproar. The livestream prompted vigorous activity on social media, with users reporting the incident to authorities, and ignited a fierce debate about the limits of free speech and the role of content moderation online.
Alex Jones, well-known for his controversial opinions and conspiracy theories, hosted the livestream, which drew immediate ire and concern across various platforms. The provocative title led many to question the intent behind such a statement and the potential consequences of broadcasting it.
Among those raising alarms was independent multimedia journalist David Leavitt, who reported the stream on X, formerly known as Twitter. Leavitt tagged the Secret Service and X's safety team, amplifying calls for official scrutiny.
Leavitt, whose works have appeared in CBS, AXS, Yahoo, and Examiner, emphasized how the platform should respond. "If you were to replace the word 'Biden' with 'Elon,' how fast would your account be banned from Twitter?" he questioned.
The incident saw extensive engagement from social media users, further highlighting the role these platforms play in identifying and reporting potential threats.
A user named @eortner voiced concerns by questioning why Jones' account remained active, tagging Elon Musk and citing terrorism laws.
Another account, @MayoIsSpicyy, tagged the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in a heightened call for attention. The collective outcry underscored a heightened vigilance among users toward potentially dangerous rhetoric.
An account named "WTFGOP" also flagged the stream to the Secret Service, reinforcing the urgency many felt regarding the broadcast. The account suggested an investigation was necessary, given the nature of the content.
Public reactions were swift and multifaceted, reflecting a range of opinions on Jones' actions and their implications. @GOPJesusUSA predicted that Jones would soon face an inquiry from the Secret Service while mentioning Jones' claim that the title was a joke.
The issue of potential misinterpretation was also raised. User @jjacobs8438 pointed out that the title might be misleading, suggesting that the full title was "Will the Deep State Assassinate Biden If He Refuses To Leave?"
This perspective added another layer to the debate, as it touched upon the importance of context in judging the severity of the broadcast’s title.
This controversy underscores ongoing debates about free speech, platform responsibilities, and acceptable online discourse. Jones' actions and the public’s reaction reveal the tension between free expression and public safety. The broader implications will likely influence future content moderation discussions as platforms navigate the balance between preventing harm and preserving freedoms.
Barron Trump joined his father, former President Donald Trump, at a campaign rally, drawing enthusiastic applause.
Barron Trump attended his first political rally alongside his father, former President Donald Trump, who criticized Democratic leaders Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
According to The Telegraph, this marked Barron Trump's inaugural appearance at a campaign rally, a significant step into the political arena for the youngest son of the former president.
Recently turning 18, the towering 6ft 7in Barron caught the eyes of many as he entered the scene with a barrage of applause from supporters.
Donald Trump welcomed his son with open arms, proudly referencing Barron's newfound presence in the political spotlight. The elder Trump humorously posited that Barron might be more sought after than his older brothers, Don and Eric Trump.
While Barron pumped his fists and waved at the crowd, Donald Trump couldn’t help but remark on the significant shift in his son's life, noting the transition from a life of relative privacy to one under the public eye. “He had such a nice easy life, now it’s a little bit changed,” Trump commented.
Though largely shielded from the public limelight throughout his childhood, Barron now appears poised for a more active role. He recently declined a delegate role at the upcoming Republican National Convention due to prior commitments.
Concurrently, Melania Trump played a key role in fundraising efforts for Donald Trump's campaign, raising $1.4 million at a lavish event hosted in the Trump Tower penthouse in New York City. The event supported the Log Cabin Republicans, a group that advocates for LGBT rights within the Republican Party.
Attendees lauded Melania Trump's dazzling appearance in a striking “fire engine red Valentino dress,” with one attendee noting she “stunned all in attendance.” The Log Cabin Republicans praised the event as “amazingly spectacular.”
The substantial funds raised are a testament to Melania Trump's continued influence and commitment to her husband's political endeavors.
During the rally, Donald Trump seized the opportunity to launch pointed attacks against current President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. He criticized Biden’s performance in the recent presidential debate, suggesting that even members of Biden's own party wanted him to step down following the 90-minute encounter.
In a display of his characteristic bravado, Trump challenged Biden to a charity golf match, confidently highlighting what he perceived as Biden's weaknesses. Additionally, Trump did not shy away from criticizing Harris's effectiveness as vice president, assuring the crowd that a more competent running mate could have led to a different political landscape.
Speculation had circulated that Trump might announce his running mate at this rally, with Sen. Marco Rubio mentioned as a potential candidate. However, no definitive announcement was made.
In summary, Barron Trump's first foray into the political spotlight has garnered significant attention and enthusiastic reception. Meanwhile, Melania Trump's successful fundraising efforts underscore her influential role in the campaign. Donald Trump remains vocally critical of his Democratic opponents, continuing to challenge their leadership at every opportunity.
According to the New York Post, a senior White House official has urged President Joe Biden to reconsider his reelection bid amid growing concerns about his age and cognitive abilities.
This plea has sparked a national debate and prompted actions from key figures to convince Biden to step aside for the upcoming November 5th election.
The official, who has worked closely with Biden since his vice presidency, expressed doubts about Biden's ability to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election. Observing Biden in both private and public settings, the official concluded that the president may not have the stamina and mental sharpness required for another term.
In recent months, Biden has shown more signs of aging, including appearing tired and speaking more slowly. His performance during a debate last month exacerbated concerns, with Biden freezing, mumbling, and losing his train of thought, which left many Democrats worried about his capacity to lead the nation.
Despite efforts to address these concerns in an interview with ABC News on Friday, Biden's support within his party continued to dwindle. The president, however, remains resolute, stating, "I am staying in the race," and asserting that only a divine intervention could persuade him otherwise.
Biden pointed to his achievements as evidence of his ability to serve another term. If re-elected, he would be 86 years old at the end of his term, making him the oldest sitting president in U.S. history.
Biden is expected to be declared the Democratic Party's presidential nominee within weeks, as he has secured enough delegates to ensure his nomination. Nonetheless, the call for him to step aside has been gaining momentum.
Six House Representatives, including Angie Craig, Mike Quigley, Seth Moulton, Raúl Grijalva, and Lloyd Doggett, have publicly urged Biden to reconsider his candidacy. Additionally, more Democrats have voiced similar concerns privately.
Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner is reportedly leading efforts among Senate Democrats to encourage Biden to drop out. Warner's spokesperson did not deny these claims, and Biden dismissed them during his ABC interview.
Prominent Democratic figures like James Carville have also called for Biden to step down. In response to the mounting pressure, top administration officials have hinted that Biden is contemplating holding a rare press conference to address concerns about his cognitive state.
Biden's reluctance to hold frequent press conferences has only fueled speculation about his ability to handle the demands of the presidency. He has held fewer press conferences than any recent president, raising questions about his transparency and availability.
The debate over Biden's fitness for office comes at a critical juncture as the nation prepares for the November election. The potential implications of Biden's decision are significant, with Democrats weighing the risks and benefits of his continued candidacy.
A senior White House official and other Democrats have urged President Biden to reconsider running for reelection due to concerns over his age and cognitive state. Biden's recent debate performance and his handling of press conferences have intensified these concerns. Despite this, Biden remains determined to stay in the race, citing his achievements and dismissing calls for him to step aside.
The House Oversight Committee is questioning White House doctor Dr. Kevin O'Connor amid contrasting reports regarding President Joe Biden's cognitive evaluations.
According to Daily Mail, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer initiated an investigation following various statements about whether President Biden underwent cognitive testing.
White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre stated that President Biden had not taken a test assessing his mental acuity. At the same time, Biden himself mentioned being deemed fine by his physician after a debate.
In a letter to Dr. O'Connor, Rep. Comer highlighted the discrepancies between the White House’s assertions and President Biden's own words. Comer expressed the committee’s intent to understand Dr. O'Connor’s current role at the White House in light of these inconsistencies. An anonymous White House official also indicated to The Washington Post that Dr. O'Connor never recommended the president for a cognitive assessment.
House Republicans are further probing Dr. O'Connor to determine if financial ties influenced his medical evaluations. Comer’s letter noted concerns about Dr. O'Connor's private engagements with the Biden family, suggesting these connections could impact his objectivity.
Rep. Comer emphasized, "The Oversight Committee is concerned your private business endeavors with the Biden family have influenced your medical assessments."
President Biden previously denied any long-term mental health issues during a post-debate television interview. In a conversation with George Stephanopoulos, he also dismissed the necessity of an independent medical review.
The committee’s focus expanded to include Dr. O'Connor’s association with Americore, a healthcare company where Biden’s brother, James Biden, held a principal role. Records disclosed that James Biden transferred $200,000 to President Biden on March 1, 2018, presenting it as repayment for a loan. This transaction has further fueled suspicions among House Republicans about possible conflicts of interest.
The committee's letter reported, "On March 1, 2018, the same day James Biden received the $200,000 wire transfer from Americore into his bank account, James Biden wrote a check to his brother, Joe Biden, for $200,000 for a 'loan repayment.'"
During a transcribed interview, James Biden admitted that Dr. O'Connor provided counsel regarding his business dealings with Americore. The committee aims to clarify if Dr. O'Connor will be able to conduct an independent review of the president’s capacity to serve.
Rep. Comer questioned Dr. O'Connor's ability to deliver unbiased medical opinions given his close connections to the Biden family. The investigation aims to assess whether Dr. O'Connor can impartially review President Biden's health without influence from personal or financial relationships.
"Given your connections with the Biden family, the Committee also seeks to understand if you are in a position to provide accurate and independent reviews of the President's fitness to serve," Comer wrote.
The House Oversight Committee investigates Dr. Kevin O'Connor for discrepancies regarding President Biden's cognitive testing and potential conflicts of interest. The investigation probes whether financial ties with the Biden family and Americore influenced O’Connor’s assessments, with emphasis on his ability to provide impartial medical evaluations.
According to Fox News, a human case of the plague has been confirmed in Pueblo County, Colorado, and health officials are providing tips to prevent its spread.
The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment (PDPHE) is working with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to investigate the case. The identity of the individual who contracted the plague has not been disclosed.
The bubonic plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. This bacterium is believed to have been brought to North America around 1900 by rats on ships from South Asia. Yersinia pestis has since become endemic in ground squirrels and other rodents in the rural Southwestern United States. About half of the plague cases occur in individuals between 12 and 45.
Globally, between 1,000 and 2,000 cases of plague are reported to the World Health Organization annually, with an average of seven cases yearly in the United States.
If untreated, the plague has a fatality rate of 30% to 60%. However, with prompt antibiotic treatment, the fatality rate drops below 5%. Symptoms of the plague include severe headache, fever and chills, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and swollen lymph nodes.
The disease can spread through droplets from an infected person, pets, rodents, and fleas, either through bites or contact with infected body fluids.
Infected dust from dried rodent urine or feces can also spread the infection. Prevention measures include avoiding contact with rodents and fleas, keeping pets indoors, treating flea infestations, and using insect repellents.
"We advise all individuals to protect themselves and their pets from plague," said Alicia Solis, program manager of the Office of Communicable Disease and Emergency Preparedness at PDPHE.
Timothy Brewer, M.D., noted, "Since its introduction 120 years ago, it has become endemic in ground squirrels and rodents in the rural Southwestern U.S."
Erica Susky, a certified infection control practitioner, emphasized:
The more common risk of exposure in the U.S. is from pets, rodents and fleas. Pets can sometimes be infected when encountering an infected flea or rodent and may pass it along to their pet owners from a bite or if the pet is ill. Skinned animals are also a risk, as the bacterium can spread via infected body fluids.
Susky recommended treating pets promptly if they have a flea infestation and seeking veterinary treatment if a pet becomes ill. She also advised ensuring homes are rodent-proof by eliminating entry points and hiding places.
Using repellent to avoid insect bites when spending time outdoors is crucial, Susky noted, as bites from infected fleas are a primary means of transmission. "Plague can be treated successfully with antibiotics, but an infected person must be treated promptly to avoid serious complications or death," Solis stated.
A human case of the plague has been confirmed in Pueblo County, Colorado, with health officials investigating the situation. Yersinia pestis, the bacterium causing the plague, has been endemic in the rural Southwestern U.S. since its introduction around 1900. Symptoms of the plague are severe but treatable with prompt antibiotics. Preventative measures include avoiding contact with rodents and fleas, keeping pets indoors, and using repellents. Public health officials emphasize the importance of protecting humans and pets from this potentially deadly disease.
Aboard a United Airlines flight to Jackson Hole, Wyoming a former campaign consultant found himself sharing the journey with notable passengers: Bill and Hillary Clinton.
Link Lauren, a former campaign advisor for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., documented his chance encounter with former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on social media, highlighting the pair's continued support for Joe Biden amidst Democratic Party upheaval, as the Daily Mail reports.
Lauren, who once played a significant role in RFK Jr.'s campaign, managed to snap a photo with the Clintons on the flight. The Democratic Party has been in disarray following a heated debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, but the Clintons appeared unfazed as they headed to Wyoming.
At 77, Bill Clinton is still younger than the leading candidates for the upcoming 2024 election, Joe Biden and Donald Trump. The former president visibly maintained his signature charm and charisma during the flight, an attribute Lauren said "can't be taught, can't be duplicated."
The Clintons, both of whom have largely stayed out of the public eye, have expressed their support for Joe Biden on social media after the recent contentious debate. Bill Clinton, in particular, tweeted affirmations for Biden, demonstrating his ongoing involvement in the political landscape.
Lauren described Bill Clinton as sociable and engaging, noting that he interacted naturally with flight attendants and passengers. In contrast, Hillary Clinton, while polite, remained more reserved, busying herself with her phone throughout the flight.
Despite their high-profile presence, the couple in first class with the Clintons were thrilled to converse, highlighting Bill Clinton's approachable nature. Lauren couldn't help but make a quip about Epstein's notorious plane, noting the differences in experience.
While Lauren found Bill Clinton's charisma undeniable, he felt that Hillary Clinton wasn't entirely impressed by his right-wing views and alignment with RFK Jr. Nevertheless, he respected their demeanor during the flight.
Lauren's past involvement with RFK Jr.'s campaign included significant contributions, such as aiding in the selection of Nicole Shanahan as Kennedy's running mate. He also revealed that a diverse group of candidates was considered for the position of vice president, including figures like Aaron Rodgers, Andrew Yang, and Tulsi Gabbard.
Lauren exited the RFK Jr. campaign in April, but he praised Kennedy's selection process and expressed enthusiasm for Shanahan's upcoming role in the campaign. He mentioned how a VP Select Committee, consisting of about ten people, was instrumental in narrowing down the choices.
Despite the current turmoil within the Democratic Party, the Clintons seemed composed and content, seemingly undeterred by the ongoing political strife. Their vacation plans to Wyoming come amid Biden's heated exchanges with Trump.
Bill Clinton, known for his relaxed and approachable manner, made a lasting impression on those aboard the flight. Lauren noted that Bill Clinton was eager to chat, fostering a friendly atmosphere.
As the couple made their way to Jackson Hole, both continues to demonstrate support for Biden, a point Lauren emphasized. Their actions reflect the ongoing influence they wield within the Democratic Party.
This spontaneous encounter underscores the Clintons' enduring presence in American politics. Despite stepping back from public life, their support for Biden against Trump remains steadfast amid Democratic Party challenges.
The sporting world is in mourning, as the body of Jacques Freitag, a former Olympian and world high jump champion, has been found in Pretoria, South Africa.
The discovery of Freitag has turned his missing person case into a murder investigation after he was found with multiple gunshot wounds, as Fox News reports.
Freitag, 42, disappeared on June 17 after leaving his mother’s home. His disappearance prompted his family to seek assistance through social media, particularly his sister, who disclosed that Freitag had been struggling with drug addiction since his retirement from professional athletics.
This week, Freitag’s body was discovered in a field near a cemetery in Pretoria. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed the elevation of the case to a murder investigation. Brigadier Brenda Muridili of SAPS confirmed to ESPN that the initially missing person report has now shifted due to the circumstances of the discovery.
World Athletics reported that Freitag's body showed multiple gunshot wounds. The gruesome discovery has shocked many, as no immediate suspects have been identified, and police are still actively pursuing leads in the case.
Brigadier Muridili noted that, as of yet, no arrests have been made but investigations are ongoing. This leaves Freitag’s family and the community at large in a state of frustration and grief, yearning for answers and justice.
Freitag’s sister had turned to social media to amplify the search, highlighting her brother's recent battles and appealing for help in finding him. The struggle Freitag faced with addiction had been a significant post-retirement hurdle, a detail that sheds light on the difficulties athletes sometimes endure away from the public eye.
The athlete made a name for himself in the early 2000s, most notably by winning a gold medal at the World Championships in Paris in 2003 and representing South Africa at the 2004 Athens Olympics. His impressive achievements in high jump placed him among the top athletes of his time. However, his transition from sport to retired life was marred by personal battles, a plight that many sports professionals can relate to but one that few have to face as tragically as Freitag did.
The SAPS remains tight-lipped on specific details of the investigation to maintain its integrity. However, Brigadier Muridili has reassured the public that all leads are being meticulously followed. The reclassification from a missing person to a homicide underscores the severity of the case and the extensive efforts underway to bring the perpetrator to justice.
The site where Freitag's body was found has been analyzed for forensic evidence, and the investigation team is sifting through potential witnesses and communication records in hopes of uncovering any clues that may lead to an arrest.
The loss of Jacques Freitag is felt profoundly within the athletic community, both in South Africa and globally. His legacy as an elite high jumper is now overshadowed by the tragic manner of his death, and the search for truth in his final days continues.
Concluding this tragic story, it’s crucial to reflect on the life of Jacques Freitag who brought pride to his country through his athletic prowess. Despite his personal struggles, his accomplishments in sports should be remembered and celebrated.
As of now, the investigation continues with police following up on any and all leads. The hope remains that those responsible for Freitag’s death will be brought to justice promptly, providing some solace to his grieving family and fans.
Dave Ramsey did not hold back in his advice to a married couple wrangling over fun money contributions.
According to Daily Mail, Ramsey urged the couple to see their finances as a unified entity in marriage rather than separate accounts.
Val, a woman who wrote to Dave Ramsey, works outside the home alongside her husband. They are at an impasse over how to handle their discretionary spending contributions.
Her husband suggested they each contribute 5 percent of their earnings to an account reserved for discretionary spending. However, since he earns significantly more, he would end up with a larger sum to spend, which seemed unfair to Val.
Though Val isn’t greedy and doesn't indulge in frivolous expenditures, she believes that contributing an equal dollar amount would be much fairer. She sought Ramsey's perspective on this disagreement.
Ramsey critiqued the husband’s proposal, describing it as immature and selfish. “I’m sure your husband means well and he’s really a good guy overall, but it sounds like he hasn’t thought this whole thing through,” Ramsey insisted. He pointed out that limiting fun money to the income earner would be unreasonable in families where only one spouse works outside the home.
According to Ramsey, most spouses who do not work outside the home still fulfill numerous responsibilities and contribute significantly. Placing a monetary value on their contributions would reflect a considerable income.
He stressed the philosophy of ‘our income’ and ‘our assets’ instead of focusing on individual earnings. Ramsey reminded the couple of their marriage vows, asserting that marriage should be a partnership in every way, including financially.
He asked Val and her husband to reflect on their wedding day when they were pronounced “as one.” He emphasized that their joined income, assets, and responsibilities should be viewed collectively, not individually.
“If you own a home, it’s our home,” Ramsey said. “It’s not more his home just because he makes more money than you. Our kids, our marriage, our everything. Get the picture?”
Ramsey concluded with a stern reminder: marriage is not a “me” proposition; it should always be viewed as a “we” proposition. He urged Val’s husband to embrace this mindset for the benefit of their partnership.
The story highlights a common issue many couples face regarding finances and underscores the importance of a unified approach. Ramsey's advice serves as a reminder that marriage requires collaboration in all aspects, notably in managing finances.
As this story illustrates, contributing equally to fun money doesn’t mean contributing equivalent percentages when earnings are lopsided. Fairness in marriage often means thinking about what’s best for the partnership as a whole, rather than what feels fair to individual members. Dave Ramsey's insights resonate beyond this specific case, offering valuable guidance for any couple navigating financial complexities in their relationship.