Democratic socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani has secured a major endorsement that could dramatically shift the landscape of New York City's mayoral race. The 33-year-old state assembly member is positioning himself as the progressive alternative to former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the upcoming Democratic primary.
According to Fox News, Senator Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., announced his support for Mamdani on Tuesday, delivering a significant boost to the candidate who has already earned the endorsement of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. This development marks a strategic consolidation behind Mamdani as progressives attempt to unite their voting bloc against the more moderate Cuomo.
The Sanders endorsement represents a critical milestone for Mamdani, who has been gaining momentum in recent polls. With both Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez now backing his campaign, Mamdani has secured the support of the two most influential figures in the American progressive movement.
Progressive Movement Unites Behind Single Candidate
Sanders praised Mamdani's campaign in his endorsement statement, highlighting the candidate's grassroots approach and progressive policy platform. The senator specifically mentioned Mamdani's plans to construct 200,000 new affordable housing units, implement a rent freeze, and provide free public transportation.
"We need a new politics and new leadership which is prepared to stand up to powerful corporate interests and fight for the working class," Sanders stated in his endorsement. The senator also took aim at the "corporate Democratic establishment" in what appeared to be a veiled criticism of Cuomo's campaign.
Mamdani expressed deep appreciation for Sanders' support, writing on social media: "As for so many across this country, @BernieSanders has been the single most influential political figure in my life. As mayor, I will strive to live up to his example by fighting for the working class every day and hopefully make Brooklyn's own proud."
Cuomo Faces Progressive Challenge In Comeback Bid
The former governor, who resigned from office in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations, has been leading in the polls as he attempts a political comeback. Cuomo has positioned himself as a moderate alternative who can effectively manage the city's challenges.
Despite his frontrunner status, Cuomo now faces a potentially unified progressive opposition with Mamdani emerging as the clear alternative. Other progressive candidates, including New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and state Sen. Jessica Ramos, remain in the race, though Ramos has oddly endorsed Cuomo while maintaining her candidacy.
The primary dynamics echo the 2021 mayoral race, when progressive candidates failed to coalesce around a single alternative to Eric Adams. That division ultimately helped Adams, a moderate Democrat, secure the nomination and eventually win the general election.
Progressive Policy Platform Takes Center Stage
Mamdani's campaign emphasizes a bold progressive agenda that Sanders highlighted in his endorsement. Beyond housing and transportation initiatives, the candidate is advocating for free childcare, city-owned grocery stores, expanded mental health services, and reduced fees for small businesses.
Sanders specifically noted that Mamdani plans to fund these initiatives by increasing taxes on the wealthiest 1% of New Yorkers. This approach aligns with the democratic socialist philosophy both Sanders and Mamdani espouse, focusing on redistributive economic policies.
Born in Uganda and having moved to the United States at age 7, Mamdani has been serving in the New York State Assembly. His rising poll numbers indicate that his message is resonating with a significant portion of Democratic primary voters.
Critical Primary Showdown Approaches
Early voting for the Democratic primary began on Saturday, with Election Day scheduled for June 24. The next week will be crucial as candidates make their final appeals to voters in what has become an increasingly competitive race.
Current Mayor Eric Adams announced in April that he would run for re-election as an independent rather than seek the Democratic Party nomination. This unusual move has further complicated the political dynamics of the race.
The Sanders-Mamdani alliance appears designed to avoid repeating the mistakes of the 2021 election, when progressive fragmentation helped elect a moderate mayor. By consolidating support behind Mamdani, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez are attempting to create a viable alternative to Cuomo.
Alleged Minnesota assassin Vance Boelter sent chilling text messages to family members hours after his deadly shooting spree that killed a state representative and her husband, according to federal court documents. In the disturbing message, he informed relatives of his violent actions while apparently trying to minimize their legal exposure.
According to the New York Post, Boelter texted his wife and other family members around 6:15 a.m. Saturday, in a group thread, writing: "Dad went to war last night … I don't wanna say more because I don't wanna implicate anybody." The message came shortly after his targeted attacks on Democratic lawmakers left two dead and two injured.
Federal prosecutors have charged Boelter in connection with the murder of former state House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, as well as the non-fatal shooting of state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. The horrific attacks have shocked Minnesota and drawn national attention to political violence.
Meticulously Planned Political Assassinations
Investigators discovered detailed notebooks in Boelter's possession that revealed extensive planning for the attacks. His handwritten notes contained information about multiple politicians he had apparently targeted, showing he had conducted significant research on his victims.
The notebooks included specific details about Hortman, noting she was "married Mark 2 children 11th term" and describing her residence as a "Big house off golf course 2 ways in to watch from one spot." Prosecutors say Boelter had also compiled information from Internet-based people search engines that aggregate personal data.
After attacking Hoffman and his wife, Boelter reportedly attempted to target two other lawmakers. One unidentified legislator wasn't home, while state Sen. Ann Rest was protected by police presence outside her residence. He then proceeded to the Hortman home, where he fatally shot the former House Speaker and her husband.
Flight Attempt With Family Preparations
After committing the shootings, Boelter appeared to have prepared for a potential escape with his family. When authorities stopped his wife's vehicle during their manhunt, they discovered concerning items suggesting flight preparations.
Law enforcement found $10,000 in cash and passports for Boelter's wife and some of their children inside the vehicle. According to court documents, the family includes five children, who were reportedly in the car with their mother at the time of the traffic stop.
In a separate apologetic message to his wife sent around the same time as his "went to war" text, Boelter warned: "Words are not gonna explain how sorry I am for this situation … there's gonna be some people coming to the house armed and trigger-happy and I don't want you guys around."
Suspect's Post-Attack Actions Revealed
Hours after the shootings, Boelter took steps to evade capture while leaving puzzling evidence behind. His movements showed both calculated planning and bizarre behavior as authorities closed in.
Wearing a cowboy hat as a disguise, Boelter visited a local bank and emptied an account in his name. He used some of the withdrawn funds to purchase an old Buick and an e-bike from an unidentified individual, apparently seeking alternative transportation methods to avoid detection.
The abandoned Buick was later discovered on Highway 25 early Sunday, containing a note addressed to the FBI. The letter, signed "Dr. Vance Luther Boelter," included a confession stating he was "the shooter at large in Minnesota involved in the 2 shootings the morning of Saturday June 15th." Court documents noted that while Boelter claimed a doctorate on his LinkedIn profile, the university he cited closed in 2023.
Suspect Faces Severe Legal Consequences
Boelter now faces both federal and state charges for the politically motivated attacks that have devastated Minnesota's legislative community. The severity of the charges could potentially result in capital punishment if convicted.
The 57-year-old suspect made his first federal court appearance Monday afternoon, where a judge ordered him held without bail. The case has drawn significant attention not only for the high-profile nature of the victims but also for the apparent political motivation behind the attacks.
Authorities finally captured Boelter about a mile from his family home after an extensive manhunt. His targeting of Democratic lawmakers, detailed planning, and cryptic messages to the family have raised serious concerns about political violence as federal prosecutors build their case against the alleged assassin.
Donald Trump's highly publicized military parade has reignited bizarre conspiracy theories about the First Lady. Social media users scrutinized Melania Trump's behavior during the event, questioning whether she was actually present or had been replaced with a stand-in.
According to The Mirror US, viewers of the military procession observed Melania's unusual demeanor, noting that she appeared to smile warmly at times but later seemed disengaged, with some claiming she fell asleep during the ceremony.
The First Lady's rare public appearance alongside her husband for the 250th-anniversary celebration of the US Army became fodder for online speculation. Many commented on her apparent boredom and periodic closed eyes, contrasting sharply with the President's more animated engagement with the proceedings.
Body Double Claims Flood Social Media
Eagle-eyed spectators flooded X (formerly Twitter) with posts suggesting the woman at the parade wasn't actually Melania. Their observations focused on perceived differences in her appearance and uncharacteristic warmth displayed during parts of the event.
One confused viewer wrote on the platform: "Ummm I don't think that's really Melania Trump... she seems nice and warm and older and wider... is that a body double?!!" The sentiment was echoed by others, including self-identified Trump supporters who expressed certainty that the woman wasn't genuine.
Despite sounding outlandish, the "fake Melania" theory has persisted throughout Trump's political career. Another social media user posted a picture of the First Lady smiling broadly at the parade with the caption: "A Melania Trump Body Double is a conspiracy theory I 100% believe."
First Lady's Puzzling Parade Behavior
Observers noted that Melania's demeanor shifted dramatically during the event, moving from smiles and engagement to what many described as apparent sleepiness. The contrast fueled speculation among those already suspicious about her authenticity.
Photos and videos from the parade captured Melania with her eyes closed while seated next to her husband. This sparked numerous comments online about her apparent boredom, with one viewer writing, "This parade is one of the most boring things on TV ever and absolutely a waste of lifetime!! No wonder why half of the administration nearly falls asleep.... including... Melania."
The First Lady's limited public appearances have historically fed conspiracy theories about potential stand-ins. Reports earlier this year indicated she spent just 14 days at the White House during Trump's first 100 days of his current term, creating fertile ground for such speculation whenever she does make public appearances.
Military Celebration Meets Public Criticism
The military parade, coinciding with President Trump's birthday, featured aerial displays, parachute demonstrations, and a formal procession. Trump and Melania entered to a 21-gun salute and "Hail to the Chief," surrounded by Cabinet members and Republican legislators.
Despite the pomp, the event faced widespread criticism from various quarters. While the President celebrated with military displays near the White House, other parts of the country saw "No Kings Day" protests amid ongoing civil unrest in Los Angeles.
Notable attendees included singer Lee Greenwood and Ultimate Fight Championship CEO Dana White, who joined the Trump administration officials watching Army parachutists descend onto the ellipse where the presidential viewing area was positioned.
Conspiracy Theory's Persistent Appeal
The "fake Melania" theory continues to captivate the public imagination despite repeated debunking efforts by fact-checkers like Snopes. The idea thrives in the vacuum created by the First Lady's limited public appearances.
Social media users frequently joke about Melania's apparent disinterest in her husband, sometimes suggesting she appears repulsed by him. This background makes any display of warmth or affection seem suspicious to conspiracy theorists, who immediately suggest a body double must be involved.
The military parade controversy exemplifies how even routine public appearances by the First Lady become fertile ground for speculation. As Trump's presidency continues, these theories show no signs of abating, especially when Melania's behavior includes anything perceived as uncharacteristic warmth or unexpected disengagement.
A terrifying series of politically motivated shootings in Minnesota left two prominent state leaders dead and two others gravely wounded. A nationwide search is underway for Vance Boelter, the suspect in a brazen attack that claimed the lives of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband and wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife.
In the early hours of a Saturday morning, a gunman carrying out a planned assassination targeted the homes of two political figures in Minnesota, leaving a state in shock and authorities in pursuit of the suspect, who sent a final eerie message to a friend, as the Daily Mail reports.
The series of attacks began at State Sen. John Hoffman’s home in Champlin around 2 a.m. There, Sen. Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot and seriously injured. Just two hours later, State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were tragically killed in their residence. The suspect, Vance Boelter, was identified as the assailant responsible for these calculated attacks.
Investigation underway
Vance Boelter, aged 57, has been identified as the suspect. He is known to have served as the director of security patrols at Praetorian Guard Security and has significant armed security experience in international regions. During the attack, Boelter was seen disguising himself with a Halloween-style mask and a police uniform, which has been described by witnesses as deeply unsettling.
Authorities have alerted the public that Boelter is still at large, and a comprehensive manhunt has been initiated. The FBI has issued a monetary reward for $50,000 in exchange for any information that may lead to his capture. Surveillance footage from Minneapolis captured Boelter wearing a cowboy hat post-attacks, adding to the bizarre nature of these events.
Community reacts to tragedy
A chilling manifesto was found in a police vehicle that Boelter left behind, along with a list of 70 potential targets. These targets included lawmakers and advocates of pro-choice positions, further underscoring the politically charged motivation behind his actions. Figures on the list have been alerted by authorities about their potential risk.
The violent events have sent ripples of shock across Minnesota. Gov. Tim Walz remarked on the tragic loss of Rep. Hortman, stating, "Minnesota lost a great leader. Violence must end in our political system." His sentiment was echoed by other leaders, including Senator Tina Smith, who expressed profound grief over Hortman's death, and Mayor Jenny Wilson, who lamented the loss and extended her sympathy to the families affected by the attacks.
Exploring suspect's background
Those who knew Boelter have expressed disbelief over his involvement in such heinous acts. David Carlson, one of Boelter's acquaintances, shared a message he received from Boelter: "David and Ron, I love you guys... I made some choices, and you guys don’t know anything about this, but I’m going to be gone for a while." Carlson expressed his own disbelief, highlighting that Boelter had many friends who trusted him.
Boelter's political views have come into focus amid the investigation, though it remains to be see what may have triggered his rampage.
Alarming details unearthed
Throughout the investigation, unsettling details have emerged about Boelter's planning and methods. His extensive security training raises concerns about his current capabilities and strategies for avoiding capture. The fact that a person with substantial security knowledge could carry out such violence has heightened alarm and urgency in the ongoing search.
Mayor Jenny Wilson emphasized her hopes for a full recovery for the Hoffmans and extended her condolences for the losses suffered. The collective shock and grief within the community are palpable, with Norm Coleman describing the events as "incomprehensible and unimaginable," especially within the context of Minnesota.
Law enforcement efforts continue
Efforts to communicate with those on the target list are ongoing as authorities work to provide protection and reassurance amidst fears of potential follow-up attacks. Police have prioritized the safety and security of those deemed at risk according to the list discovered in Boelter’s possession.
The larger national and state-level response reflects serious collaboration among agencies to apprehend Boelter and prevent further catastrophe. Carlson's reflection on the situation highlighted the surprise and concern shared by many: "I don't know why he did what he did. It's just... it's not Vance."
As Minnesota reels from this violent spree, officials urge the public to remain vigilant and report any information that could be vital in capturing Boelter. The community stands united in its resolve to heal and bring justice for the victims and their families.
Former Hillary Clinton aide Huma Abedin and Alex Soros, son of billionaire investor George Soros, are set to exchange vows in what promises to be one of the summer's most politically star-studded events. The couple's nuptials will bring together a who's who of liberal elite.
According to the New York Post, the wedding will take place Saturday at the Soros family's $14.5 million Southampton estate. The lavish ceremony comes just over a year after the couple became engaged in May 2024.
The pair met at a birthday celebration for Nicky Hilton thrown by her husband, James Rothschild, in fall 2023. Their relationship blossomed quickly, with Soros later admitting to New York Magazine that before Abedin, he hadn't maintained a relationship lasting longer than three months in roughly a decade.
Political powerhouse guest list
Hillary, Bill, and Chelsea Clinton are expected to attend the ceremony, adding significant political weight to the occasion. The Clintons' presence highlights Abedin's long professional relationship with Hillary, having served as her close aide for many years.
Barack and Michelle Obama are also anticipated guests, along with several European prime ministers connected to George Soros' Open Society foundation. The gathering represents a convergence of influential progressive figures rarely seen outside major political events.
Some guests will arrive by helicopter from Manhattan, demonstrating the high-profile nature of the event. Other notable attendees likely include Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, banker James Rothschild, and former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, underscoring the couple's connections across business, media, and politics.
Pre-wedding celebrations begin
The celebration kicked off Friday with an exclusive rehearsal dinner held at the home of Soros' mother on Shelter Island. The intimate gathering was catered by Marie Eiffel, setting an elegant tone for the weekend's festivities.
The couple sent emerald green save-the-date cards earlier this year, formally announcing their June 14 wedding date. This stylish touch offered a glimpse into the sophisticated nature of their planned celebration.
After becoming engaged in New York City last May, Abedin and Soros celebrated their commitment with a romantic trip to Italy. The European getaway foreshadowed the international flavor of their wedding guest list, which includes dignitaries from multiple countries.
New chapter for both partners
Abedin, 48, brings significant political experience to the relationship, having long served as Hillary Clinton's trusted aide. Her previous marriage to disgraced former New York Congressman Anthony Weiner ended in divorce, though they share a 13-year-old son.
Soros, 39, serves on the investment committee for Soros Fund Management. His father, George Soros, has an estimated net worth of $7.2 billion and has been a major donor to liberal campaigns, organizations, and causes throughout his career.
In discussing their relationship with New York Magazine, Abedin described finding "a certain kind of stability and comfort" with Soros. The sentiment suggests the couple shares not only political values but also personal compatibility that had eluded Soros in previous relationships.
High society wedding spectacle
The Southampton ceremony represents a significant social event for both liberal political circles and New York high society. The $14.5 million Soros family estate provides an appropriately luxurious backdrop for the union of these two prominent figures.
Notably absent from the celebration will be Abedin's ex-husband, Anthony Weiner. The former congressman's political career ended in scandal, creating a stark contrast to the successful trajectories of both Abedin and her soon-to-be husband.
With the gathering of so many influential figures from politics, business, and media, the wedding transcends a simple personal milestone. It serves as a reminder of the interconnected nature of America's political and financial elite, particularly within progressive circles where the Soros name carries significant weight.
Gun control activist David Hogg found himself at the center of a political firestorm following his removal from the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The Parkland shooting survivor was escorted out of the United Center during President Biden's speech on Monday night.
According to The Hill, Hogg was removed after joining protesters chanting "cease-fire now" during Biden's address. His ejection from the convention has sparked heated debate across political lines about free speech and the Democratic Party's handling of dissent.
Hogg later clarified his position on social media, explaining that while he opposes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies, he does not support Hamas. The activist, who rose to prominence after surviving the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, emphasized his concerns about civilian casualties in Gaza.
Controversial Convention Moment
Security personnel approached Hogg and other protesters during Biden's speech when they began chanting anti-war slogans. Video footage shows Hogg being physically escorted from the convention floor alongside other demonstrators expressing opposition to the administration's Israel policy.
Democratic officials defended the removal, citing convention rules prohibiting disruptions during official speeches. Party representatives stated that while diverse viewpoints are welcome within the Democratic coalition, the prime-time addresses require decorum and respect for speakers.
Critics, however, have accused the party of silencing legitimate dissent on a crucial foreign policy issue. Progressive organizations pointed to polling showing significant portions of Democratic voters, particularly younger ones, opposing continued military support for Israel without humanitarian conditions.
Hogg Responds To Criticism
Following his removal, Hogg took to social media platform X to clarify his position. He expressed frustration at what he characterized as oversimplification of his views on the complex Middle East conflict.
"To be clear I can both be against Netanyahu's far right government's actions and against Hamas. I'm against all terrorism," Hogg wrote. His comments reflect the challenging position many progressive Democrats have taken – criticizing both Hamas's October 7 attack and the subsequent Israeli military response.
Hogg further explained that he attended the convention to support Democratic candidates and policies on gun violence prevention, his primary advocacy focus since surviving the Parkland tragedy. He emphasized that disagreement on one issue should not negate cooperation on others.
Party Division Exposed
The incident highlights deep divisions within the Democratic Party regarding U.S. policy toward Israel. While the party's leadership, including President Biden, has maintained strong support for Israel, a growing faction of progressive and younger Democrats has called for conditions on military aid.
Several Democratic lawmakers expressed concern about the optics of removing protesters. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez noted that the party should "make space for dissenting voices" while Senator Bernie Sanders emphasized that "democratic debate is essential to our values."
Convention organizers defended their actions, stating that all attendees agree to certain conduct rules when receiving credentials. They pointed out that designated protest areas existed outside the convention hall for those wishing to express opposition to specific policies.
Activism Continues Despite Setback
Despite the controversy, Hogg indicated he remains committed to working within the Democratic Party on multiple issues, particularly gun violence prevention. His organization, March For Our Lives, continues advocating for stricter gun control legislation nationwide.
The incident has not diminished Hogg's resolve to engage in political activism. He emphasized that effective advocacy sometimes requires challenging party leadership while still supporting broader Democratic priorities against Republican alternatives.
Hogg's fellow Parkland activists offered mixed reactions to his protest. Some supported his stance on Gaza, while others expressed concern that the controversy might distract from their shared gun safety advocacy goals during a crucial election season.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has issued a stark warning about the increasing threat of nuclear war following her recent visit to Hiroshima, Japan. Her emotional message comes amid growing tensions between global nuclear powers.
According to Breitbart, Gabbard shared her experience in a video posted to X, describing the "haunting sadness" that still lingers in Hiroshima nearly 80 years after an atomic bomb devastated the city. The DNI emphasized that the world is currently "closer to the brink of nuclear annihilation than ever before."
In her message, Gabbard detailed the horrific aftermath of the 1945 bombing, which killed over 300,000 people immediately and left countless others suffering from radiation sickness, severe burns, and cancer in the months and years that followed.
Modern weapons far deadlier
Gabbard pointed out a frightening reality about today's nuclear arsenals compared to the weapons used during World War II. The bomb dropped on Hiroshima had a yield of just fifteen kilotons of TNT, while modern nuclear weapons are exponentially more powerful.
"A single nuclear weapon today could kill millions in just minutes," Gabbard warned in her video message. She described in vivid detail how such weapons would "vaporize everything at its core" and send deadly shockwaves miles beyond the initial blast zone.
The DNI further explained that the aftermath of a nuclear strike would be catastrophic, with radioactive fallout spreading through air, water, and soil. She warned that a potential "nuclear winter" could block sunlight globally, leading to crop failures and mass starvation affecting billions.
Trump seeks denuclearization path
President Trump has recently expressed support for nuclear disarmament efforts, aligning with Gabbard's concerns about the existential threat posed by these weapons. His administration appears to be exploring diplomatic avenues to reduce nuclear tensions.
In March, Trump stated that "it would be great if everybody would get rid of their nuclear weapons," noting that Russia and the United States possess the largest arsenals. He also acknowledged that China is rapidly expanding its nuclear capabilities and could reach parity within five years.
The president previously indicated plans to advance denuclearization talks with both Russia and China. "There's no reason for us to be building brand new nuclear weapons," Trump said in February, adding that existing arsenals could already "destroy the world 50 times over, 100 times over."
Warning against warmongers
Gabbard's message took aim at those she believes are increasing the risk of nuclear conflict through reckless rhetoric and policies that heighten international tensions.
"This isn't some made-up science fiction story, this is the reality of what's at stake," Gabbard emphasized in her video. She specifically criticized "political elite and warmongers" who she accused of "carelessly fomenting fear and tensions between nuclear powers."
The DNI called for people to "reject this path to nuclear war" and instead work toward "a world where no one has to live in fear of a nuclear holocaust." Her message represents one of the most direct warnings about nuclear danger from a high-ranking U.S. intelligence official in recent years.
Gabbard supports peace initiatives
Alexa Henning, Deputy Chief of Staff for Gabbard, clarified that the DNI's message aligns with President Trump's stated objectives of pursuing peace and preventing conflicts that could escalate to nuclear confrontation.
"Acknowledging the past is critical to inform the future," Henning stated. She emphasized that the DNI supports Trump's "clearly stated objectives of bringing about lasting peace and stability and preventing war."
Gabbard's warning comes at a time of heightened global tensions, with ongoing conflicts in multiple regions and strained relations between nuclear powers. Her Hiroshima visit appears to have deeply affected her perspective on nuclear risks.
Veteran ABC News correspondent Terry Moran has lost his job after posting controversial comments about President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller on social media. The firing marks an abrupt end to Moran's nearly three-decade career with the network.
According to the Daily Mail, ABC News confirmed Moran's termination in a statement Tuesday, specifically citing his social media post as a "clear violation" of the network's policies. The now-deleted tweet described Trump as a "world class hater" and characterized Miller as a man "richly endowed with the capacity for hatred."
The incident occurred just weeks after Moran conducted an exclusive interview with President Trump in the Oval Office. The veteran journalist, who had served as ABC's senior national correspondent, previously co-anchored Nightline for eight years and worked as the network's Chief White House Correspondent from 1999 to 2005.
Late-night tweet sparks immediate backlash
Moran's controversial post appeared shortly after midnight on Sunday, when he wrote that Miller is "a man who is richly endowed with the capacity for hatred" and claimed "you can see this just by looking at him because you can see that his hatreds are his spiritual nourishment."
The journalist continued his critique by calling Trump "a world-class hater," though he distinguished the president's motivation, suggesting Trump's "hatred [is] only a means to an end, and that end his own glorification." The tweet was quickly deleted, but not before screenshots were captured and shared widely online.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reposted Moran's comments, drawing significant attention to them. Miller himself responded to the tweet, saying it revealed what he considers the true nature of mainstream media: "For decades, the privileged anchors and reporters narrating and gatekeeping our society have been radicals adopting a journalist's pose. Terry pulled off his mask."
ABC cites violation of journalistic standards
ABC News initially suspended Moran on Monday "pending further evaluation" before announcing their decision not to renew his contract. The network emphasized its commitment to journalistic principles in its statement.
"We are at the end of our agreement with Terry Moran and based on his recent post – which was a clear violation of ABC News policies – we have made the decision to not renew," the statement read. "At ABC News, we hold all of our reporters to the highest standards of objectivity, fairness and professionalism, and we remain committed to delivering straightforward, trusted journalism."
The termination comes months after ABC paid a $15 million libel settlement to Trump in December following erroneous on-air comments made by George Stephanopoulos, another longtime ABC News personality. The network has been navigating coverage of Trump's presidency while attempting to maintain journalistic impartiality.
Trump administration officials respond
Several Trump administration figures quickly weighed in on Moran's tweet, with Vice President JD Vance calling the comments a "vile smear" and demanding an apology to Miller from ABC News.
Miller, a key architect of Trump's immigration policies, including the administration's mass deportation agenda, framed Moran's comments as revealing a broader issue with media bias. His response on social media characterized the incident as a "full public meltdown" that exposed what he views as longstanding prejudice among journalists.
The backlash from administration officials and subsequent social media criticism likely contributed to ABC's swift action. The network, which has faced scrutiny over its coverage of the Trump administration, appeared eager to address the violation of its journalistic standards.
Veteran journalist's career ends abruptly
Moran's firing concludes a distinguished 28-year career at ABC News that included numerous high-profile interviews and assignments. The 65-year-old journalist had established himself as one of the network's senior correspondents after joining ABC in 1997.
Throughout his tenure, Moran received several journalistic honors, including the White House Correspondents Association's Merriman Smith Award for excellence in presidential reporting on deadline and a George Foster Peabody Award. His career included nine one-on-one interviews with former President Barack Obama during his time as Nightline co-anchor.
Interestingly, when Trump sat down with Moran for their April interview, the president reportedly told Moran he had selected him because he "had never heard of him," despite Moran's extensive experience and long career in television news. That interview, which took place in the Oval Office, came just weeks before the social media post that ultimately ended Moran's ABC career.
Newly declassified intelligence documents reveal that the Biden administration significantly inflated domestic terrorism statistics by classifying January 6 Capitol riot cases as domestic terrorism, despite the event resulting in no fatalities caused by rioters.
According to Just The News, recently released intelligence records show that January 6-related cases accounted for the vast majority of the administration's reported rise in domestic terrorism threats.
A declassified "Special Analysis" report from February 2022 reveals that 61 percent of all FBI domestic terrorism investigations at that time were related to the Capitol riot, and 78 percent of domestic terrorism arrests in 2021 stemmed from that single event on January 6, 2021.
Whistleblowers' claims validated
FBI whistleblowers had previously come forward alleging that the Bureau was artificially inflating domestic terrorism numbers by using January 6-related cases. These claims appear to have been validated by the recently declassified internal analysis from the FBI, DHS, and National Counterterrorism Center.
Special Agent Stephen Friend told House investigators that "the manipulative case file practice creates false and misleading crime statistics" because "instead of hundreds of investigations stemming from a single black swan incident at the Capitol, FBI and Justice Department officials point to significant increases in domestic violent extremism and terrorism around the United States."
FBI Special Agent Garret O'Boyle claimed that the FBI classified "every single Jan. 6 case... as a domestic terrorism case," further supporting allegations that the Biden administration was distorting statistics.
Concealed statistical manipulation
The Biden administration regularly cited the dramatic increase in domestic terrorism cases without disclosing that the majority were related to a single event. FBI Director Christopher Wray repeatedly testified to Congress about doubled domestic terrorism investigations since spring 2020 without revealing the January 6 connection.
In August 2022, Wray told Congress, "The number of FBI investigations of suspected DVEs has more than doubled since the spring of 2020." He made similar statements in April 2023, July 2023, and December 2023, consistently failing to clarify that most cases stemmed from the Capitol riot.
Then-DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas echoed these claims in November 2023, stating that "the number of FBI domestic terrorism investigations has more than doubled since the spring of 2020." The public was never informed that without January 6 cases, domestic terrorism figures would have actually decreased compared to 2020.
Political motivations questioned
The administration used the inflated statistics to justify expanded federal law enforcement powers and a sweeping new domestic terrorism strategy. Just days after Biden's inauguration, then-White House press secretary Jen Psaki announced a review of the alleged rising domestic terrorism threat, citing January 6 as her only example.
In June 2021, the White House released its "National Strategy for Countering Domestic Terrorism," which repeatedly cited January 6 as justification for expanded powers. The strategy equated the Capitol riot with deadly terrorist attacks like the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, despite the fact that unlike these other incidents, the January 6 rioters did not kill anyone.
Then-Attorney General Merrick Garland declared in January 2022 that pursuing January 6 cases was the Justice Department's highest priority, calling it "one of the largest, most complex, and most resource-intensive investigations in our history." That same month, the DOJ announced the creation of a new "domestic terrorism unit."
Deceptive data practices exposed
The declassified report confirms that without January 6 cases, domestic terrorism figures would have actually decreased in 2021 compared to 2020. While the FBI arrested approximately 180 domestic terrorism subjects in 2020, it arrested around 800 in 2021 – with 78% of those arrests related to January 6.
A February 2023 report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) noted that the Justice Department's data did not explicitly state which cases were tied to January 6, making it impossible to determine the true nature of the alleged increase in domestic terrorism.
The House Judiciary Committee and Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government released a May 2023 report detailing whistleblower claims that "the FBI pressured agents to reclassify cases as domestic violent extremism (DVE), and even manufactured DVE cases where they may not otherwise exist while manipulating its case categorization system to feign a national problem."
Vice President JD Vance has weighed in on the escalating conflict between President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, characterizing the public spat as detrimental to both parties and the nation. During a candid conversation on Theo Von's podcast, Vance expressed hope for reconciliation despite the increasingly hostile exchanges between the former allies.
According to The Daily Caller, Vance made it clear where his loyalties lie while still acknowledging Musk's contributions. The vice president praised Musk's entrepreneurial accomplishments and his work with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative but emphasized his primary allegiance remains with President Trump.
The interview comes after days of increasingly bitter public exchanges between Trump and Musk, culminating in explosive allegations from the Tesla CEO that were later deleted from social media. Vance's comments represent the first major administration response attempting to defuse the situation.
Political newcomer frustrations
Vance suggested Musk's political inexperience may be contributing to the conflict. He noted that the tech entrepreneur has faced significant backlash since becoming more politically active, including attacks on his businesses.
"Elon's new to politics... his businesses are being attacked nonstop, they're literally like firebombing some of his cars, and by the way, we're looking into a lot of this stuff," Vance explained during the interview. "I think part of it is this guy got into politics and has suffered a lot for it, and I get the frustration there."
The vice president acknowledged Musk's frustrations while still maintaining that the public criticism of Trump was misguided. He expressed concern that the feud could have negative consequences not only for the country but for Musk personally.
Spending bill sparked conflict
The public disagreement erupted Tuesday when Musk harshly criticized Trump's signature spending legislation, which he characterized as a "disgusting abomination" in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
"I'm sorry, but I just can't stand it anymore. This massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination. Shame on those who voted for it: you know you did wrong. You know it," Musk wrote on the platform he owns.
The tech billionaire further claimed the bill would increase national debt by $2.5 trillion and predicted that Trump's tariff policies would trigger a recession before year's end. The criticisms struck at the heart of Trump's economic policy agenda, prompting a swift response from the president.
Trump's counterattack escalates tension
President Trump responded by accusing Musk of hypocrisy, claiming the tech entrepreneur had been fully informed about the legislation's contents before its passage. According to Trump, Musk only objected after learning about planned cuts to electric vehicle mandates.
"I'm very disappointed because Elon knew the inner workings of this bill better than almost anybody sitting here... he had no problem with it. All of a sudden he had a problem and he only developed the problem when he found out we're going to have cut the EV mandate," Trump stated during a press briefing.
The conflict quickly intensified, with Musk eventually making explosive allegations about Trump's connection to Jeffrey Epstein in a post he later deleted. This marked a significant escalation in the feud between the two influential figures.
Administration seeks reconciliation
Vance emphasized throughout the interview that he believes the ongoing conflict serves neither party well and damages the country's interests. The vice president expressed hope that Musk would eventually return to working with the administration.
"My hope is, [Musk] comes back, says 'look, made some mistakes, didn't mean to say everything, let's smooth it out and let's all be friends,' because again I care about the country, and I think the country's better off under the president's leadership, Elon's helping us out as opposed to fighting the administration," Vance stated.
He concluded the interview by reiterating his desire to see the conflict resolved quickly, noting that neither he nor President Trump wants continued hostility with the influential tech entrepreneur who had previously been a key supporter of the administration.
