Barack Obama on Wednesday (Oct 28) mocked US President Donald Trump over his and his administration's days-long meltdown over a Cheesecake Factory joke, as the two traded barbs at duelling campaign rallies ahead of Tuesday's (Nov 3) midterm elections.The clash began last week when Obama mocked Trump's redecoration of the White House at a rally, saying it looked like "Saddam Hussein opened a Cheesecake Factory, just gold everywhere." Since then, Trump and those in his administration have gone over the top in praising the restaurant franchise while desperately trying to paint Obama as out of touch with everyday Americans for daring to evoke the chain to make a dig at Trump.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-dead-for-years-paedophile-jeffrey-epstein-finds-mention-in-over-500-campaign-ads-texas-alone-spent-10-million-1792839624663">US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million</a><h2>Obama's comeback</h2>Obama fired back at Trump during a campaign rally in Georgia supporting Democratic candidates Jon Ossoff for Senate and Keisha Lance Bottoms for governor. He clarified that his earlier comments targeted the sitting president, not the Cheesecake Factory and those who eat there."I am the father of two daughters. Do you think I could have survived their childhood without going to the Cheesecake Factory?" Obama said. "I lived at Chuck E. Cheese and the Cheesecake Factory. Of course, the real problem is prices have gotten so high a lot of folks can barely afford to go out to eat."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Man, oh man. Obama just roasted Trump and some of his cabinet members for minutes in Atlanta. Stop what you're doing and watch this. There is no way Trump is sleeping tonight. https://t.co/akqwRxIi4m&mdash; CALL TO ACTIVISM (@CalltoActivism) <a href="https://x.com/CalltoActivism/status/2115612371943129513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2026</a></blockquote>
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That remark, made in front of a packed arena in Atlanta, comes after Trump whined about Obama's initial dig."Obama, who doesn't understand cleanliness," Trump said at a rally in Ohio on Wednesday. “Who doesn't understand broken, cracked stone and sidewalk. Who doesn't understand that having asphalt going to your main entrance is not the right thing. We'd like to have granites and marbles.”<h2>'Not serious people'</h2>Obama has used his lasting influence in the Democratic Party to tour the country and endorse a slate of candidates in the last month. He has travelled across competitive Midwestern and Southern battleground states, including Michigan, Ohio and Georgia, to boost his Democratic candidates."This is what I mean when I say [the Trump administration] are not serious people," Obama said. "They do not have solutions to serious problems, so they'd rather have the media, and you, talking about the Cheesecake Factory."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-us-midterm-bribe-5-000-dividend-1-2-trillion-promise-fiscal-hawks-and-the-voters-who-want-the-cheque-but-don-t-expect-it-1792228505050">US Midterms: Trump doubles down on $5,000 dividend as economists call it a 'half-baked political scheme'. Can a Republican win guarantee it?</a><h2>Trump's response</h2>President Donald Trump downplayed concerns about Obama hitting the campaign trail, saying Obama supported both Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris and "he lost.""I took heat because Obama, who is, I mean, I always worry when he campaigns against me because he got involved with Hillary Clinton. He was really, oh, and then he lost," Trump said in Chillicothe at the same time Obama rallied in Georgia. He continued: "He then got involved with Kamala, and he lost. And he lost."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | “Always lost when he campaigned against me”, says US President Donald Trump, to Barack Obama at Ohio rally.

(Source: Jon Ossoff/YT)

(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/d8jp61yd2p) https://t.co/nUMp753Yrn&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2115667753516585184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Trump said he was told Obama was coming out on the campaign trail. His reaction: "I said, 'That's good.'"The president alluded to recent comments from Obama attacking his aesthetic changes to the White House, defending his preoccupation with projects like his massive ballroom, among others. "The White House, I think, is the number one symbol of our country, and we can't have a White House with broken windows, with broken stone that hasn't been painted in 30 years," Trump said.

Barack Obama mocked Donald Trump over his administration's days-long meltdown over a Cheesecake Factory joke, as the two traded barbs at duelling rallies ahead of the midterms. Here's what they said.

Barack Obama on Wednesday (Oct 28) mocked US President Donald Trump over his and his administration's days-long meltdown over a Cheesecake Factory joke, as the two traded barbs at duelling campaign rallies ahead of Tuesday's (Nov 3) midterm elections. The clash began last week when Obama mocked Trump's redecoration of the White House at a rally, saying it looked like "Saddam Hussein opened a Cheesecake Factory, just gold everywhere." Since then, Trump and those in his administration have gone over the top in praising the restaurant franchise while desperately trying to paint Obama as out of touch with everyday Americans for daring to evoke the chain to make a dig at Trump. Also read | US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million Obama's comeback Obama fired back at Trump during a campaign rally in Georgia supporting Democratic candidates Jon Ossoff for Senate and Keisha Lance Bottoms for governor. He clarified that his earlier comments targeted the sitting president, not the Cheesecake Factory and those who eat there. "I am the father of two daughters. Do you think I could have survived their childhood without going to the Cheesecake Factory?" Obama said. "I lived at Chuck E. Cheese and the Cheesecake Factory. Of course, the real problem is prices have gotten so high a lot of folks can barely afford to go out to eat."

Barack Obama mocked Donald Trump over his administration's days-long meltdown over a Cheesecake Factory joke, as the two traded barbs at duelling rallies ahead of the midterms. Here's what they said.

'He lost' vs 'they aren't serious people': Obama mocks Trump's Cheesecake Factory meltdown as rivals trade barbs at duelling rallies

Details of more than 41,000 personnel working for the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including thousands involved in immigration enforcement, have been leaked to the public. Wednesday's leak marks the third time in recent weeks that a government agency has been targeted by leaks or hacks. Last month, the FBI was hacked by a group called ShinyHunters, which took personal information about thousands of agents. In recent days, the Federal Election Commission, which makes public political campaign donation data, was taken offline because of a suspected hacking attempt.A DHS spokesperson said the agency is "aware of a potential breach and is actively working to address the situation swiftly and effectively." "We take all security threats against our employees and officers seriously and will work to ensure all are properly protected," the spokesperson added. "We will update the public when more information is available."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-strikes-back-at-shinyhunters-after-alleged-hack-arrests-leader-in-netherlands-warns-members-your-anonymity-won-t-protect-you-1790748838819">FBI strikes back at ShinyHunters after alleged hack, arrests leader in Netherlands, warns members: 'Your anonymity won't protect you'</a><h2>Who was exposed</h2>The leak, as per reports, includes names, work addresses and phone numbers of DHS staff, including that of agents working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) blamed for more than two dozen shootings and killing at least nine people, including Alex Pretti and Renee Good, both of whom were shot and killed by ICE agents this year in Minnesota, despite not being the targets of arrests. Additionally, data of Customs and Border Protection agents is included in the leak. Details made public also include descriptions of the exact work the agents do for each agency.The seemingly unprecedented breach of employee information was made public online. A group called the Department of Peace accessed the information from DHS, while journalist and cybersecurity researcher maia crimew, alongside the website Distributed Denial of Secrets, put it online. The information was put in a database named Icepick.Most of the agents included, over 21,000 of them, work for CBP, according to the data. Nearly 6,600 work for ICE. Other records show agents with Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Protective Service and even people working for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.The leaked information also included dozens of previously unknown operation names, the agents that led and worked on those operations, and some of the technology they used in their work, including tech provided by Cellebrite and Palantir.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-operation-metro-surge-alex-pretti-s-killers-named-even-as-dhs-refuses-to-confirm-identities-to-avoid-doxxing-minneapolis-shooting-1769996227446">Identities of US federal officers who killed Alex Pretti REVEALED, even as DHS refuses to confirm identities to avoid 'doxing'</a><h2>Replacing 'anonymity with accountability'</h2>The groups wrote in an online statement that the leak was not meant to be a directory of every DHS agent. Rather, the aim was to replace "anonymity with accountability", according to Emma Best, a co-founder of DDoSecrets."The leak is extraordinary but deceptive in its simplicity as it identifies the officials responsible for overseeing covert and undercover operations, the government's hunt for leakers and the failed BlueLeaks investigation – along with key personnel in DHS's ever-escalating rendition and deportation programs," Best added.BlueLeaks refers to a massive leak of US police data in 2020, data from which DDoSecrets also hosted.A spokesperson for the so-called Department of Peace pointed directly at actions by ICE agents for the group's work to hack DHS records. "On July 17th, Markwayne Mullin said he was 'turning up the heat'. This is what happens to ICE when you do that," the spokesperson wrote on Wednesday. Mullin in March became Secretary of Homeland Security.<h2>How the data was accessed</h2>The Department of Peace said it accessed the DHS agent profiles through a single sign-on service called Okta.Okta is a popular online security tool that organisations use to ensure that only people with access to internal platforms are logging on to them. A spokeswoman for Okta said the company is aware of the claims being made, but said: "Okta is secure, and we have no evidence our data or systems were compromised."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-you-killed-my-fu-ing-neighbour-medic-begs-to-help-renee-good-ice-officers-tells-him-i-don-t-care-disturbing-video-emerges-1767857999720">'You killed my fu**ing neighbour': Medic begs to help Renee Good, ICE officers tells him 'I don't care'. Disturbing video emerges</a><h2>Backlash to immigration enforcement?</h2>In recent months, public backlash to US immigration enforcement has been building as the Trump Administration continues to push a huge increase in arrests and deportations of people suspected of being in the country illegally.Immigration operations this year have repeatedly turned violent, with ICE agents shooting at more than two dozen people and killing at least nine people. Often, ICE agents are seen carrying out enforcement actions while their faces are covered by masks and sunglasses. Immigration agents rarely identify themselves, despite being required by law to do so, and US politicians have publicly demanded DHS enforce the requirement.Since President Donald Trump returned to office in 2025, the US has enacted nearly 1 million deportations, according to data from the Migration Policy Institute. More than 70 per cent of the deportations have been of people with no criminal record.

Details of more than 41,000 DHS personnel, including thousands of ICE and CBP agents, have been leaked online. The data, including names, addresses and phone numbers, was accessed by a group called the Department of Peace and published by DDoSecrets in a database named Icepick.

Details of more than 41,000 personnel working for the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including thousands involved in immigration enforcement, have been leaked to the public. Wednesday's leak marks the third time in recent weeks that a government agency has been targeted by leaks or hacks. Last month, the FBI was hacked by a group called ShinyHunters, which took personal information about thousands of agents. In recent days, the Federal Election Commission, which makes public political campaign donation data, was taken offline because of a suspected hacking attempt. A DHS spokesperson said the agency is "aware of a potential breach and is actively working to address the situation swiftly and effectively." "We take all security threats against our employees and officers seriously and will work to ensure all are properly protected," the spokesperson added. "We will update the public when more information is available." Also read | FBI strikes back at ShinyHunters after alleged hack, arrests leader in Netherlands, warns members: 'Your anonymity won't protect you' Who was exposed The leak, as per reports, includes names, work addresses and phone numbers of DHS staff, including that of agents working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) blamed for more than two dozen shootings and killing at least nine people, including Alex Pretti and Renee Good, both of whom were shot and killed by ICE agents this year in Minnesota, despite not being the targets of arrests. Additionally, data of Customs and Border Protection agents is included in the leak. Details made public also include descriptions of the exact work the agents do for each agency. The seemingly unprecedented breach of employee information was made public online. A group called the Department of Peace accessed the information from DHS, while journalist and cybersecurity researcher maia crimew, alongside the website Distributed Denial of Secrets, put it online. The information was put in a database named Icepick. Most of the agents included, over 21,000 of them, work for CBP, according to the data. Nearly 6,600 work for ICE. Other records show agents with Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Protective Service and even people working for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. The leaked information also included dozens of previously unknown operation names, the agents that led and worked on those operations, and some of the technology they used in their work, including tech provided by Cellebrite and Palantir. Also read | Identities of US federal officers who killed Alex Pretti REVEALED, even as DHS refuses to confirm identities to avoid 'doxing' Replacing 'anonymity with accountability' The groups wrote in an online statement that the leak was not meant to be a directory of every DHS agent. Rather, the aim was to replace "anonymity with accountability", according to Emma Best, a co-founder of DDoSecrets. "The leak is extraordinary but deceptive in its simplicity as it identifies the officials responsible for overseeing covert and undercover operations, the government's hunt for leakers and the failed BlueLeaks investigation – along with key personnel in DHS's ever-escalating rendition and deportation programs," Best added. BlueLeaks refers to a massive leak of US police data in 2020, data from which DDoSecrets also hosted. A spokesperson for the so-called Department of Peace pointed directly at actions by ICE agents for the group's work to hack DHS records. "On July 17th, Markwayne Mullin said he was 'turning up the heat'. This is what happens to ICE when you do that," the spokesperson wrote on Wednesday. Mullin in March became Secretary of Homeland Security. How the data was accessed The Department of Peace said it accessed the DHS agent profiles through a single sign-on service called Okta. Okta is a popular online security tool that organisations use to ensure that only people with access to internal platforms are logging on to them. A spokeswoman for Okta said the company is aware of the claims being made, but said: "Okta is secure, and we have no evidence our data or systems were compromised." Also read | 'You killed my fu**ing neighbour': Medic begs to help Renee Good, ICE officers tells him 'I don't care'. Disturbing video emerges Backlash to immigration enforcement? In recent months, public backlash to US immigration enforcement has been building as the Trump Administration continues to push a huge increase in arrests and deportations of people suspected of being in the country illegally. Immigration operations this year have repeatedly turned violent, with ICE agents shooting at more than two dozen people and killing at least nine people. Often, ICE agents are seen carrying out enforcement actions while their faces are covered by masks and sunglasses. Immigration agents rarely identify themselves, despite being required by law to do so, and US politicians have publicly demanded DHS enforce the requirement. Since President Donald Trump returned to office in 2025, the US has enacted nearly 1 million deportations, according to data from the Migration Policy Institute. More than 70 per cent of the deportations have been of people with no criminal record.

Details of more than 41,000 DHS personnel, including thousands of ICE and CBP agents, have been leaked online. The data, including names, addresses and phone numbers, was accessed by a group called the Department of Peace and published by DDoSecrets in a database named Icepick.

'Icepick': Private info of over 41,000 DHS personnel, including ICE agents, leaked by hackers

Democratic Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed has called President Donald Trump an ‘idiot’ and criticised Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing them of using bullying tactics and power to influence others. During a lengthy interview with comedian Hasan Minhaj on his podcast, El-Sayed said Americans are being actively bullied by the dumbest people in the room, referring to Trump, Vance and Hegseth.&nbsp;El-Sayed, who could become the first Muslim senator if he defeats Republican Mike Rogers next week, told Minhaj that he supports underdogs who are exploited by powerful people. “I don’t bully, but I bully bullies,” the Michigan Democrat said on the “Hasan Minhaj Doesn’t Know” episode released on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;“And maybe it’s just because I understood quickly what the consequences of allowing bullies to persist would look like. And none of us, when you think about our politics, like we are being actively bullied by the dumbest people in the room. And I mean Donald Trump is an idiot. Whatever you think about him, he has one genius, which is the genius of getting attention which is because you know his dad never gave him enough,” El-Sayed said.&nbsp;“And so because he was a nepo baby, because he had resources, realized quickly that he just craved for attention and then used the bullying tactics that he uses right now to get it. But the man is an idiot. I mean, just when it comes down to it, like just a fool,” he continued.<h2>Watch the video</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Abdul El-Sayed, Democratic Senate candidate, lashes out at Trump

“We are being actively bullied by the dumbest people in the room. And I mean, Donald Trump is an idiot.

Whatever you think about him, he has one genius, which is the genius of getting attention, because his dad never gave him enough.

Because he was a nepo baby, because he had resources, he realized quickly that he just craved attention and then used the bullying tactics that he uses right now to get it.

But the man is an idiot. I mean, just when it comes down to it, just a fool.”

Earlier, Trump called El-Sayed a “jihadist.”&mdash; NEXTA (@nexta_tv) <a href="https://x.com/nexta_tv/status/2115516448013738234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h2>El-Sayed criticises JD Vance and Pete Hegseth</h2>El-Sayed also targeted other members of the Trump administration, questioning Vance's conduct and criticizing Hegseth. “And then you’ve got other people like JD Vance, who do this thing of just becoming curs to the dumbest person in the room,” El-Sayed said. “JD Vance is a smart person, but he has no actual soul, and he has no actual charisma. And so, his think is just to suck up to the strongest person in in the room to do their bidding. And then you got people like Pete Hegseth who are like, you know, minifool bullies around him. But like this whole coterie of the dumbest people, or the most cowardly people, are running the country. So, part of the responsibility I think we have is not to allow them to use their power to bend the rest of us to their will.”&nbsp;The Michigan Democrat suggested he would take the same approach toward Trump if elected to the Senate, emphasising the importance of confronting people who use power to intimidate others. “And that means standing up. And the thing about it is if you ever stood up to a bully, you realize that they’re very fragile. Like, once you get past the immediate bullying and the fear that they strike in people, there’s no there there. And when you hit them back, they back off. So, you know, I’m not looking to bully anybody, but if you’re walking around bullying people and you are causing them harm as a function of it, I’m gonna show up and I’m going to do exactly to you what you do to everybody else,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flavio-bolsonaro-claims-he-is-brazil-s-elected-president-after-fleeing-to-us-trump-says-he-won-t-get-involved-1793224385997">Flavio Bolsonaro claims he is Brazil's 'elected president' after fleeing to US; Trump says he 'won't get involved'</a><h2>El-Sayed questions Democrats' response to Trump</h2>During the interview, Minhaj asked El-Sayed why traditional Democrats were not taking the same confrontational approach toward Trump. “I think for a lot of folks, they’ve never been in a fight,” El-Sayed said. “And the thing about a fight is that a fight is not a pretty thing, right? And the logic of fighting is that once you get into a fight, like you’ve got to be willing to end the fight. And they have more power."&nbsp;“And so, for a lot of folks, they’ll look at what their resources and say, ‘Maybe it’s not worth it.’ But what they don’t realize is that for people who’ve set the culture of the debate around power, if you let them take what you have, you won’t have anything. And so that I think is part of it,” he said.&nbsp;El-Sayed also rejected the idea that Trumpism would disappear once Trump leaves office, arguing that confronting bullying was necessary to prevent the continued abuse of power. “I think the other part of it is people think that this will go away and the only way to beat a bully is to beat a bully and then you get to decide what happens next. We don’t want a world where people bully each other. We don’t want a world where might makes right. We don’t want a world where the most powerful in the room gets to take whatever they want from anybody else because of power. But when somebody violates that norm, you have a responsibility to stand up to them and take power back and then decide that we are not going to continue to live like this. And I think for a lot of the Democratic Party, it’s some combination of lack of courage and lack of understanding,” he said.

Abdul El-Sayed calls Donald Trump an 'idiot', criticises JD Vance and Pete Hegseth, and discusses bullying, political power and Democratic resistance

Democratic Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed has called President Donald Trump an ‘idiot’ and criticised Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing them of using bullying tactics and power to influence others. During a lengthy interview with comedian Hasan Minhaj on his podcast, El-Sayed said Americans are being actively bullied by the dumbest people in the room, referring to Trump, Vance and Hegseth. El-Sayed, who could become the first Muslim senator if he defeats Republican Mike Rogers next week, told Minhaj that he supports underdogs who are exploited by powerful people. “I don’t bully, but I bully bullies,” the Michigan Democrat said on the “Hasan Minhaj Doesn’t Know” episode released on Wednesday. “And maybe it’s just because I understood quickly what the consequences of allowing bullies to persist would look like. And none of us, when you think about our politics, like we are being actively bullied by the dumbest people in the room. And I mean Donald Trump is an idiot. Whatever you think about him, he has one genius, which is the genius of getting attention which is because you know his dad never gave him enough,” El-Sayed said. “And so because he was a nepo baby, because he had resources, realized quickly that he just craved for attention and then used the bullying tactics that he uses right now to get it. But the man is an idiot. I mean, just when it comes down to it, like just a fool,” he continued. Watch the video

Abdul El-Sayed calls Trump an ‘idiot’, criticises JD Vance and Pete Hegseth, and urges Democrats to stand up to bullies and reclaim power

'Donald Trump is an idiot': Michigan candidate Abdul El-Sayed tears into Trump, calls JD Vance 'soulless' and Pete Hegseth a 'bully'

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday demanded that Democratic Senate candidate Mary Peltola and a rival sharing the name of Alaska's Republican incumbent be removed from next week's election ballot, accusing Democrats of running an illegal scheme to confuse voters. Trump's demand followed a New York Times investigation that reported Democratic operatives had secretly recruited so-called ‘spoiler’ candidates, including another Dan Sullivan, in an attempt to divert votes from Republican Senator Dan Sullivan.&nbsp;"It has just been determined that the Democrats in Alaska illegally searched for, and recruited, a man named Dan Sullivan," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He accused Democrats of perjury, alleging they had made false statements under oath in federal court. Trump also demanded that the incumbent be allowed to contest the election without either Peltola or the ‘FAKE Dan Sullivan’ appearing on the ballot.&nbsp;However, the Times noted that recruiting candidates to divide an opponent's vote, a practice known as ballot stacking, is generally legal and has been used by both political parties in Alaska. The investigation did not establish criminal wrongdoing or substantiate Trump's allegation of perjury. According to the newspaper, the effort involved senior aides and lawyers working for Peltola, along with officials from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC).&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-federal-reserve-keeps-rates-unchanged-as-inflation-remains-high-warsh-says-politics-played-no-role-in-decision-1793214610244">US Federal Reserve keeps rates unchanged as inflation remains high; Warsh says politics 'played no role' in decision</a>&nbsp;The Times cited interviews, dozens of text messages and documents prepared for a potential lawsuit against the campaign. One of the individuals reportedly recruited was Daniel J. Sullivan, a retired teacher from a remote Alaskan fishing community. He has maintained that he entered the race of his own accord. The newspaper identified Democratic operative Jerid Kurtz as a central figure in the effort, reporting that he travelled around Alaska under an assumed name to approach potential candidates.

The Times also reported that Kurtz encouraged a Democrat to withdraw from the race after the August primary, creating a place on the four-candidate ranked-choice ballot for Republican Gerald Heikes, who was also a recruit. Heikes told the newspaper that he had been recruited by a Midwesterner whom he did not believe resembled a photograph of Kurtz. Kurtz did not respond to the Times' requests for comment.

Peltola's former campaign manager, Elisa Rios, told the newspaper that the candidate was ‘definitely aware’ of the project but was not directly involved. She also said DSCC aides had introduced Kurtz to the campaign. Rios, who was fired in August and had been planning a wrongful termination lawsuit, later sought to retract her statements. The Times reported that her account was consistent with its other findings. Peltola's campaign and the DSCC have denied recruiting any candidates.&nbsp;The revelations emerged days after Trump directed the Justice Department to sue Alaska over the presence of the second Sullivan on the ballot. The lawsuit seeks to delay certification if Peltola narrowly defeats the incumbent and votes cast for his namesake could have changed the result. In June, Alaska's Supreme Court upheld the retired teacher's right to run, rejecting Republican efforts to remove him from the ballot. The state has asked a federal judge to dismiss the Justice Department's lawsuit, arguing that it has no legal basis.

Donald Trump demands the removal of Mary Peltola and a second Dan Sullivan from Alaska's Senate ballot, accusing Democrats of recruiting spoiler candidates. The New York Times investigation and a Justice Department lawsuit fuel the election controversy

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday demanded that Democratic Senate candidate Mary Peltola and a rival sharing the name of Alaska's Republican incumbent be removed from next week's election ballot, accusing Democrats of running an illegal scheme to confuse voters. Trump's demand followed a New York Times investigation that reported Democratic operatives had secretly recruited so-called ‘spoiler’ candidates, including another Dan Sullivan, in an attempt to divert votes from Republican Senator Dan Sullivan. "It has just been determined that the Democrats in Alaska illegally searched for, and recruited, a man named Dan Sullivan," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He accused Democrats of perjury, alleging they had made false statements under oath in federal court. Trump also demanded that the incumbent be allowed to contest the election without either Peltola or the ‘FAKE Dan Sullivan’ appearing on the ballot. However, the Times noted that recruiting candidates to divide an opponent's vote, a practice known as ballot stacking, is generally legal and has been used by both political parties in Alaska. The investigation did not establish criminal wrongdoing or substantiate Trump's allegation of perjury. According to the newspaper, the effort involved senior aides and lawyers working for Peltola, along with officials from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC). Also Read: US Federal Reserve keeps rates unchanged as inflation remains high; Warsh says politics 'played no role' in decision The Times cited interviews, dozens of text messages and documents prepared for a potential lawsuit against the campaign. One of the individuals reportedly recruited was Daniel J. Sullivan, a retired teacher from a remote Alaskan fishing community. He has maintained that he entered the race of his own accord. The newspaper identified Democratic operative Jerid Kurtz as a central figure in the effort, reporting that he travelled around Alaska under an assumed name to approach potential candidates.

Trump demands removal of Mary Peltola and a second Dan Sullivan from Alaska's ballot, alleging a Democratic scheme to confuse voters

Alaska Senate race: Trump accuses Democrats of running 'illegal scheme', seeks removal of Mary Peltola, ‘FAKE Dan Sullivan’

US President Donald Trump warns Gulf nations of the risk of a renewed war with Iran, as Tehran threatens devastating consequences amid rising regional tensions. With fears of another confrontation mounting, the Middle East faces fresh uncertainty over the possibility of military escalation.

What is behind Washington’s latest warning? How is Iran responding, and what could another conflict mean for Gulf security, regional stability and global energy supplies? Gravitas brings you the latest developments, key statements and analysis as tensions between the US and Iran remain in focus.



Trump warns Gulf of new war, Iran threatens devastation

In connection with the Epstein files, Democrats have now demanded a probe against U.S. President Donald Trump. Democrats released a 53-page report, reviving allegations of sexual misconduct made against Trump. 


Democrats release 53-page dossier on Trump's links with Epstein

Could Donald Trump lose support among South Asian Americans in the upcoming US midterm elections? Political debates over immigration, economic pressures, foreign policy and the administration’s approach to diversity and minority communities could shape how some South Asian American voters view the Trump administration.


Why Trump may lose support of South Asian Americans in midterms

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 27) claimed credit for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's performance in this week's elections, saying his endorsement helped the premier "a lot" as vote counting continued. "I think when the endorsement went out, it had helped him a lot," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, referring to Netanyahu.The remarks were Trump's first on the Israeli election as counting was underway. "I hear he did very well. It's pretty close, very good," Trump told reporters while returning from a campaign rally in Texas. "When the endorsement came out, it helped him a lot."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-elections-record-voter-turnout-in-decades-as-opposition-edges-ahead-of-netanyahu-in-early-projections-1793133218215">Israel elections: Record voter turnout in decades as Opposition edges ahead of Netanyahu in early projections</a> &nbsp;"But actually, I heard he did pretty well. He's probably winning or tied. But I heard he's doing pretty well," he added.Trump acknowledged that the results were far from final but suggested Netanyahu had significantly exceeded expectations. "It's still a little early. But I hear in Israel, I mean, top people are saying, 'Wow, he did much better.' Something like a tie, maybe even a win. We'll see what happens."On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “When President Trump endorsed Bibi Netanyahu, the whole tide turned, and now, rather than a decisive defeat for a Great Prime Minister, it looks like a big come-from-behind stalemate, or even a WIN for Netanyahu”. The POTUS attributed the text to an individual named Irving C. Schwartz. However, a simple search of the name only found a Canadian businessman who died in 2010.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261028/image-1793167084130.png"></figure><h2>Bloc leads after 50% counted</h2>According to AFP, with 53.7 per cent of ballot boxes counted as of 7:27 am, partial results published by the Central Elections Committee give the pro-Netanyahu bloc 55 seats and the anti-Netanyahu bloc 50.Parties currently below the 3.25 per cent threshold include Reservists (2.7 per cent), People of Israel (1.7 per cent) and Charedi Public (0.2 per cent). The results are partial and will change as counting continues. Votes cast in double envelopes, including those of soldiers, are counted later.The vote, the first general election since Hamas's unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack, drew 77.7 per cent turnout, the highest since 1999.Voters turned out Tuesday in the highest numbers in decades to give their verdict on the divisive rule of Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister who has pushed the country sharply to the right and unleashed a wave of wars in response to the Hamas attack.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/complete-lack-of-confidence-in-netanyahu-says-eisenkot-after-opposition-leads-in-exit-polls-arab-parties-make-gains-1793134765389">'Complete lack of confidence' in Netanyahu, says Eisenkot after Opposition leads in exit polls; Arab parties make gains</a><h2>Netanyahu in brief address touts partnership with Trump</h2>Netanyahu, greeting cheering supporters at a Jerusalem convention centre after 3:00 am (0100 GMT), called for a "strong government of the right" and said that the "Jewish and Zionist majority must unite".The 77-year-old prime minister was unusually brief and did not directly claim victory. Instead, he listed leaders Israel has killed under his orders and again hinted that he was ready for a third bombing campaign against Iran alongside Trump, his close ally."Israel has a unique opportunity with our partner President Trump to forever eliminate the existential threat of Iran," Netanyahu said.<h2>“Public has voted for change”: Eisenkot's warning</h2>Eisenkot, speaking to his own supporters in Tel Aviv, issued a veiled warning to Netanyahu, who observers say could use a war to push for a unity government. "Netanyahu, don't you dare use Israel's security for your political needs," Eisenkot said. Addressing Israel's security establishment, Eisenkot said that they served the state and not Netanyahu, calling him "a caretaker prime minister, without a mandate or the people's trust".After the highest turnout since 1999, Eisenkot said it would be a mistake to hold a second election and vowed to work "swiftly" to form a government. "The public has voted for change," Eisenkot said. "A worthy leader would accept the people's vote of no confidence and announce his retirement from political life today."&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump claimed credit for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's election performance, saying his endorsement helped Bibi "a lot" as counting continued. With 53.7% of ballot boxes counted, the pro-Netanyahu bloc holds 55 seats against 50 for the anti-Netanyahu bloc.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Oct 27) claimed credit for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's performance in this week's elections, saying his endorsement helped the premier "a lot" as vote counting continued. "I think when the endorsement went out, it had helped him a lot," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, referring to Netanyahu. The remarks were Trump's first on the Israeli election as counting was underway. "I hear he did very well. It's pretty close, very good," Trump told reporters while returning from a campaign rally in Texas. "When the endorsement came out, it helped him a lot." Also read | Israel elections: Record voter turnout in decades as Opposition edges ahead of Netanyahu in early projections "But actually, I heard he did pretty well. He's probably winning or tied. But I heard he's doing pretty well," he added. Trump acknowledged that the results were far from final but suggested Netanyahu had significantly exceeded expectations. "It's still a little early. But I hear in Israel, I mean, top people are saying, 'Wow, he did much better.' Something like a tie, maybe even a win. We'll see what happens." On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “When President Trump endorsed Bibi Netanyahu, the whole tide turned, and now, rather than a decisive defeat for a Great Prime Minister, it looks like a big come-from-behind stalemate, or even a WIN for Netanyahu”. The POTUS attributed the text to an individual named Irving C. Schwartz. However, a simple search of the name only found a Canadian businessman who died in 2010. Bloc leads after 50% counted According to AFP, with 53.7 per cent of ballot boxes counted as of 7:27 am, partial results published by the Central Elections Committee give the pro-Netanyahu bloc 55 seats and the anti-Netanyahu bloc 50. Parties currently below the 3.25 per cent threshold include Reservists (2.7 per cent), People of Israel (1.7 per cent) and Charedi Public (0.2 per cent). The results are partial and will change as counting continues. Votes cast in double envelopes, including those of soldiers, are counted later. The vote, the first general election since Hamas's unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack, drew 77.7 per cent turnout, the highest since 1999. Voters turned out Tuesday in the highest numbers in decades to give their verdict on the divisive rule of Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister who has pushed the country sharply to the right and unleashed a wave of wars in response to the Hamas attack. Also read | 'Complete lack of confidence' in Netanyahu, says Eisenkot after Opposition leads in exit polls; Arab parties make gains Netanyahu in brief address touts partnership with Trump Netanyahu, greeting cheering supporters at a Jerusalem convention centre after 3:00 am (0100 GMT), called for a "strong government of the right" and said that the "Jewish and Zionist majority must unite". The 77-year-old prime minister was unusually brief and did not directly claim victory. Instead, he listed leaders Israel has killed under his orders and again hinted that he was ready for a third bombing campaign against Iran alongside Trump, his close ally. "Israel has a unique opportunity with our partner President Trump to forever eliminate the existential threat of Iran," Netanyahu said. “Public has voted for change”: Eisenkot's warning Eisenkot, speaking to his own supporters in Tel Aviv, issued a veiled warning to Netanyahu, who observers say could use a war to push for a unity government. "Netanyahu, don't you dare use Israel's security for your political needs," Eisenkot said. Addressing Israel's security establishment, Eisenkot said that they served the state and not Netanyahu, calling him "a caretaker prime minister, without a mandate or the people's trust". After the highest turnout since 1999, Eisenkot said it would be a mistake to hold a second election and vowed to work "swiftly" to form a government. "The public has voted for change," Eisenkot said. "A worthy leader would accept the people's vote of no confidence and announce his retirement from political life today."

US President Donald Trump claimed credit for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's election performance, saying his endorsement helped Bibi "a lot" as counting continued. With 53.7% of ballot boxes counted, the pro-Netanyahu bloc holds 55 seats against 50 for the anti-Netanyahu bloc.

'When Trump endorsed Bibi, the whole tide turned': Trump hogs credit as Netanyahu bloc leads Israel vote after 50% counted

US President Donald Trump suggested on Tuesday that Venezuela could ‘maybe someday soon’ become the 51st US state as he promoted an influx of Venezuelan oil to American voters facing higher fuel prices. “It will become a prosperous country, and who knows, maybe someday soon, it will become a prosperous 51st state. That’s possible,” Trump told a crowd in Corpus Christi, Texas. “Let’s make it the 51st state, and instead of a president, we’ll have an election for a governor,” Trump added. “How about that? You know, they have a lot of oil,” he said.<h2>Trump calls Venezuelan oil shipment a ‘gift’</h2>Earlier on Tuesday, Trump announced that Venezuela had sent a million barrels of oil to the United States ‘as a gift’. Trump also referred to an oil tanker he planned to show off in Texas, describing the shipment as a personal gift from Venezuela. “See that little ship out there?” Trump told the Corpus Christi crowd. “It’s got 1 million barrels of oil on it from Venezuela, and we’re celebrating the greatest oil victory in history. To the victor belong the spoils, right?” he further added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/food-poisoned-by-meat-trump-mocks-james-talarico-over-campaign-absence-as-former-texas-chief-justice-endorses-democrat-1793145433320">‘Food poisoned by meat’: Trump mocks James Talarico over campaign absence, as former Texas Chief Justice endorses Democrat</a>&nbsp;Trump touted the US operation in Venezuela earlier this year, arguing that it had increased America's oil supply. “This historic win gives us control over the massive part, the biggest part of the world’s oil supply. We have more oil than any other country, even any countries combined, and it’ll be refined right here in Texas, including right here in Corpus Christi,” Trump said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The president's remarks came as Republican candidates face pressure over elevated fuel prices ahead of Election Day. A gallon of unleaded gasoline costs 40% more than it did a year ago, while diesel prices are nearly 75% higher.

Donald Trump says Venezuela could become the 51st US state as he touts a million-barrel Venezuelan oil shipment and addresses rising US fuel prices

US President Donald Trump suggested on Tuesday that Venezuela could ‘maybe someday soon’ become the 51st US state as he promoted an influx of Venezuelan oil to American voters facing higher fuel prices. “It will become a prosperous country, and who knows, maybe someday soon, it will become a prosperous 51st state. That’s possible,” Trump told a crowd in Corpus Christi, Texas. “Let’s make it the 51st state, and instead of a president, we’ll have an election for a governor,” Trump added. “How about that? You know, they have a lot of oil,” he said. Trump calls Venezuelan oil shipment a ‘gift’ Earlier on Tuesday, Trump announced that Venezuela had sent a million barrels of oil to the United States ‘as a gift’. Trump also referred to an oil tanker he planned to show off in Texas, describing the shipment as a personal gift from Venezuela. “See that little ship out there?” Trump told the Corpus Christi crowd. “It’s got 1 million barrels of oil on it from Venezuela, and we’re celebrating the greatest oil victory in history. To the victor belong the spoils, right?” he further added. Also Read: ‘Food poisoned by meat’: Trump mocks James Talarico over campaign absence, as former Texas Chief Justice endorses Democrat Trump touted the US operation in Venezuela earlier this year, arguing that it had increased America's oil supply. “This historic win gives us control over the massive part, the biggest part of the world’s oil supply. We have more oil than any other country, even any countries combined, and it’ll be refined right here in Texas, including right here in Corpus Christi,” Trump said. The president's remarks came as Republican candidates face pressure over elevated fuel prices ahead of Election Day. A gallon of unleaded gasoline costs 40% more than it did a year ago, while diesel prices are nearly 75% higher.

Trump suggests Venezuela could become the 51st US state as he promotes Venezuelan oil supplies amid rising gasoline and diesel prices

US midterms 2026: Trump says Venezuela could ‘maybe someday soon’ become 51st US state, calls Venezuelan oil shipment a ‘gift'

As Republicans face an uphill task to retain control over the US Senate and House of Representatives, US President Donald Trump's desperation is growing. While earlier only domestic opponents were at the receiving end of his diatribe during the midterm campaign trail, now even foreign leaders are not being spared.Addressing a rally in Mississippi, Trump mocked his Mexican counterpart Claudia Sheinbaum over her refusal to accept his decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Now, this is not the first time when Trump has used questionable language for women. At a Republican rally in Michigan over the weekend, the US president made a rather blunt remark about rapper Nicki Minaj's backside. While critics questioned the appropriateness of such language at a political rally, Trump supporters attributed it to his unscripted speaking style.Previously, he has targeted prominent Democratic lawmakers Maxine Waters and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez with the 'low IQ' slur. This is not all. Last year, he described former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as an 'evil woman'. In May this year, Trump also riled Italian PM Georgia Meloni to an extent that her foreign minister called off his scheduled visit to America. While Trump claimed that Meloni begged to have a picture with him during the G7 summit, she accused him of lying and expressed surprise at the way in which he treats US allies.Now, even as his approval rating slightly rose to 32% in the latest Reuters-Ipsos poll, Democrats still enjoy an 11% lead over Republicans as far as voting preference is concerned. While Trump earlier announced a 5,000 US dollar dole to win over voters, he has now dangled a one million US dollar reward for reporting voter fraud, which leads to the arrest and conviction of someone. This move stems from his longstanding allegation that large numbers of non-Americans have been illegally voting in the federal election. On multiple occasions, he has even accused Democrats of seeking to cheat in elections.In the run-up to the midterm polls, the US president has been seeking a greater federal role in overseeing the elections. For instance, the Trump administration asked the state of California to stop counting the ballots of 20,000 voters, whom it claimed are non-citizens. However, a US federal appeals court declined to intervene after California refused to follow its order. But the Trump administration has doubled down on its approach by asking Washington not to count ballots of 400 suspected non-citizens.This raises a key question. Is Trump preparing the ground to question the legitimacy of the midterm polls if the result doesn't go in his favour?

Donald Trump intensifies voter fraud claims and attacks political opponents as Democrats lead in voting preferences ahead of the US midterm elections.

As Republicans face an uphill task to retain control over the US Senate and House of Representatives, US President Donald Trump's desperation is growing. While earlier only domestic opponents were at the receiving end of his diatribe during the midterm campaign trail, now even foreign leaders are not being spared. Addressing a rally in Mississippi, Trump mocked his Mexican counterpart Claudia Sheinbaum over her refusal to accept his decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Now, this is not the first time when Trump has used questionable language for women. At a Republican rally in Michigan over the weekend, the US president made a rather blunt remark about rapper Nicki Minaj's backside. While critics questioned the appropriateness of such language at a political rally, Trump supporters attributed it to his unscripted speaking style. Previously, he has targeted prominent Democratic lawmakers Maxine Waters and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez with the 'low IQ' slur. This is not all. Last year, he described former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as an 'evil woman'. In May this year, Trump also riled Italian PM Georgia Meloni to an extent that her foreign minister called off his scheduled visit to America. While Trump claimed that Meloni begged to have a picture with him during the G7 summit, she accused him of lying and expressed surprise at the way in which he treats US allies. Now, even as his approval rating slightly rose to 32% in the latest Reuters-Ipsos poll, Democrats still enjoy an 11% lead over Republicans as far as voting preference is concerned. While Trump earlier announced a 5,000 US dollar dole to win over voters, he has now dangled a one million US dollar reward for reporting voter fraud, which leads to the arrest and conviction of someone. This move stems from his longstanding allegation that large numbers of non-Americans have been illegally voting in the federal election. On multiple occasions, he has even accused Democrats of seeking to cheat in elections. In the run-up to the midterm polls, the US president has been seeking a greater federal role in overseeing the elections. For instance, the Trump administration asked the state of California to stop counting the ballots of 20,000 voters, whom it claimed are non-citizens. However, a US federal appeals court declined to intervene after California refused to follow its order. But the Trump administration has doubled down on its approach by asking Washington not to count ballots of 400 suspected non-citizens. This raises a key question. Is Trump preparing the ground to question the legitimacy of the midterm polls if the result doesn't go in his favour?

Donald Trump intensifies voter fraud claims and attacks political opponents as Democrats lead in voting preferences ahead of the US midterm elections.

Trump mocks Mexican president on midterm campaign trail, dangles $1 million reward | Gravitas

A former model and Miss Switzerland has accused US President Donald Trump of rape in a report released Monday (Oct 26) by House Democrats investigating the president's alleged ties to disgraced financier and paedophile Jeffrey Epstein's crimes. Beatrice Keul, who before the 2024 election claimed Trump had groped her in November 1993, has now alleged the president also raped her during that same incident. The report, produced after interviews with Democratic committee staffers "over several weeks", says Keul met Trump when she was 24 at a press event for a pageant at New York's Plaza Hotel, which he owned at the time.According to the report, Trump allegedly promised to arrange a visa for her and said he could ensure she got accepted into New York University. "I will take care of you," he told her, the claims state.The fresh rape allegations against the POTUS landed a week before the US midterm elections. Trump's handling of the Epstein files, along with inflation and rising energy prices caused by his war with Iran, have emerged as key points in the upcoming elections.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-dead-for-years-paedophile-jeffrey-epstein-finds-mention-in-over-500-campaign-ads-texas-alone-spent-10-million-1792839624663">US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million</a><h2>Don's best friend, Epstein</h2>After Trump stepped away, Keul said she was approached by convicted sex trafficker Epstein, who described himself as "Don's best friend", and invited her to a party at Mar-a-Lago. "We organise many parties with Don," Epstein apparently told her.Notably, Trump claims he ended his friendship with Epstein long before there were suspicions of criminal wrongdoing and has repeatedly described him as a "creep" whom he kicked out of his Mar-a-Lago club.<h2>The alleged assault</h2>The report claims a representative for Trump later invited Keul to meet the future president upstairs at the Plaza Hotel. "Upon entering, Trump reportedly grabbed Keul from behind and forcibly raped her; in the process, tearing her dress and causing bleeding and bruising on multiple parts of her body," the report claimed. “Keul described the rape as 'brutal'.”Following the alleged assault, Keul claimed Trump "sat her on the edge of the bed, repeated his promises to arrange for a visa and NYU admission, and made her promise she would keep quiet, saying, '[T]he show must go on.'"In her original claims in October 2024, Keul accused Trump of groping her at the Plaza Hotel in 1993 but said things did not go further. "He kissed me on the lips and on the neck. He tried to lift my dress. He was grabbing and touching my body everywhere he could," she told The Daily Mail. "I tried everything I could. Finally, I said 'let's talk first' or something like that, then he slowed down,' she said at the time.The 6 ft 1 in ex-model suggested it was her height that "saved her" from the alleged attack escalating. The newspaper also reported that a long-time friend said Keul "first told him her story of Trump's unwanted sexual advances 20 years ago, and that her telling of the incident has not changed in the intervening years."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100-victory-claims-200-days-of-war-is-trump-s-iran-gamble-turning-into-a-midterm-nightmare-us-midterms-2026-1790843647554">100 victory claims, 200+ days of war: Is Trump's Iran gamble turning into a midterm nightmare?</a><h2>White House response</h2>The White House has denied the report's allegations. A spokesperson, as per The Telegraph, described the claims as "a desperate attempt by crazed Democrats to distract Americans from the surging Republican momentum driven by President Trump's historic achievements."At the time of the original claims, Karoline Leavitt, then press secretary to Trump, described the allegations as "fake." In a statement to Time magazine regarding the new allegations, a spokesman said Trump had been "fully exonerated of anything related to Epstein."<h2>Keul not the only person to accuse Trump of rape</h2>The newly released report summarises the accounts of four other women who have accused Trump of rape or sexual assault. It also claims that Trump, Epstein and others used the pageant at the Plaza Hotel as a "'hunting ground' to prey on vulnerable young women and girls.""Five women have directly accused Trump of rape or sexual assault in Epstein's company or presence; others have indicated that Epstein or Maxwell attempted to traffic them to Trump," Jamie Raskin, the committee's ranking member, said in a statement alongside the release of the report. "Trump's Justice Department appears to be covering up these crimes to protect the President," he added. &nbsp;

Beatrice Keul, a former model and Miss Switzerland, has accused Donald Trump of rape in a Democratic Party report released Monday, adding to her earlier groping claims from 1993. The White House dismissed the claims as "a desperate attempt by crazed Democrats."

A former model and Miss Switzerland has accused US President Donald Trump of rape in a report released Monday (Oct 26) by House Democrats investigating the president's alleged ties to disgraced financier and paedophile Jeffrey Epstein's crimes. Beatrice Keul, who before the 2024 election claimed Trump had groped her in November 1993, has now alleged the president also raped her during that same incident. The report, produced after interviews with Democratic committee staffers "over several weeks", says Keul met Trump when she was 24 at a press event for a pageant at New York's Plaza Hotel, which he owned at the time. According to the report, Trump allegedly promised to arrange a visa for her and said he could ensure she got accepted into New York University. "I will take care of you," he told her, the claims state. The fresh rape allegations against the POTUS landed a week before the US midterm elections. Trump's handling of the Epstein files, along with inflation and rising energy prices caused by his war with Iran, have emerged as key points in the upcoming elections. Also read | US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million Don's best friend, Epstein After Trump stepped away, Keul said she was approached by convicted sex trafficker Epstein, who described himself as "Don's best friend", and invited her to a party at Mar-a-Lago. "We organise many parties with Don," Epstein apparently told her. Notably, Trump claims he ended his friendship with Epstein long before there were suspicions of criminal wrongdoing and has repeatedly described him as a "creep" whom he kicked out of his Mar-a-Lago club. The alleged assault The report claims a representative for Trump later invited Keul to meet the future president upstairs at the Plaza Hotel. "Upon entering, Trump reportedly grabbed Keul from behind and forcibly raped her; in the process, tearing her dress and causing bleeding and bruising on multiple parts of her body," the report claimed. “Keul described the rape as 'brutal'.” Following the alleged assault, Keul claimed Trump "sat her on the edge of the bed, repeated his promises to arrange for a visa and NYU admission, and made her promise she would keep quiet, saying, '[T]he show must go on.'" In her original claims in October 2024, Keul accused Trump of groping her at the Plaza Hotel in 1993 but said things did not go further. "He kissed me on the lips and on the neck. He tried to lift my dress. He was grabbing and touching my body everywhere he could," she told The Daily Mail. "I tried everything I could. Finally, I said 'let's talk first' or something like that, then he slowed down,' she said at the time. The 6 ft 1 in ex-model suggested it was her height that "saved her" from the alleged attack escalating. The newspaper also reported that a long-time friend said Keul "first told him her story of Trump's unwanted sexual advances 20 years ago, and that her telling of the incident has not changed in the intervening years." Also read | 100 victory claims, 200+ days of war: Is Trump's Iran gamble turning into a midterm nightmare? White House response The White House has denied the report's allegations. A spokesperson, as per The Telegraph, described the claims as "a desperate attempt by crazed Democrats to distract Americans from the surging Republican momentum driven by President Trump's historic achievements." At the time of the original claims, Karoline Leavitt, then press secretary to Trump, described the allegations as "fake." In a statement to Time magazine regarding the new allegations, a spokesman said Trump had been "fully exonerated of anything related to Epstein." Keul not the only person to accuse Trump of rape The newly released report summarises the accounts of four other women who have accused Trump of rape or sexual assault. It also claims that Trump, Epstein and others used the pageant at the Plaza Hotel as a "'hunting ground' to prey on vulnerable young women and girls." "Five women have directly accused Trump of rape or sexual assault in Epstein's company or presence; others have indicated that Epstein or Maxwell attempted to traffic them to Trump," Jamie Raskin, the committee's ranking member, said in a statement alongside the release of the report. "Trump's Justice Department appears to be covering up these crimes to protect the President," he added.

Beatrice Keul, a former model and Miss Switzerland, has accused Donald Trump of rape in a Democratic Party report released Monday, adding to her earlier groping claims from 1993. The White House dismissed the claims as "a desperate attempt by crazed Democrats."

Trump accused of 'brutal' rape by ex-Miss Switzerland; Beatrice Keul alleges 'Don's best friend' Epstein facilitated assault in 1993

House Judiciary Committee Democrats on Monday (Oct 26) released an unsigned staff report laying out what they call "the case against Donald Trump emerging in the Epstein Files and DOJ's desperate efforts to cover it up," and are now calling for an independent special counsel to investigate the president, Attorney General Todd Blanche's alleged conflicts of interest, and the Justice Department's reluctance to share evidence with state and foreign law enforcement."The women who survived Epstein deserve to be heard," the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said in a statement. "Congress must have the complete files required by law, and an independent special counsel must investigate Epstein's co-conspirators and DOJ's cover-up and ensure that state and foreign prosecutors have the evidence they need to pursue justice."The more than 50-page report alleges that Trump was "an active participant in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of young women in the mid-to-late 1990s." It also contains at least one entirely new allegation against the president, though it provides no direct evidence other than the woman's own conversations with Judiciary Committee staff.Notably, for years, Trump has denied that he engaged in any sexual misconduct with any woman connected to Epstein and has said he knew nothing about Epstein's crimes. He even claimed to have kicked out "creep" Epstein from his Mar-a-Lago resort in 2203.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-s-best-friend-epstein-trump-accused-of-rape-by-ex-miss-switzerland-beatrice-keul-alleges-trump-raped-her-in-1993-democrats-report-1793069124230">Trump accused of 'brutal' rape by ex-Miss Switzerland; Beatrice Keul alleges 'Don's best friend' Epstein facilitated assault in 1993</a><h2>What the report claims</h2>Talking to MS Now, a Democratic Judiciary Committee member said that the report draws on publicly available accounts as well as conversations with survivors.The report repeats several other longstanding allegations against Trump. It also compares Trump's statements about Epstein in recent years to documentary evidence, including emails, deposition transcripts, Trump's prior public statements, and Trump's drawings and signatures. Among the discrepancies highlighted are inconsistencies with what Trump has said about his awareness of Epstein's crimes.The report suggests DOJ officials, including the attorney general, are "doing everything they can to keep the American people in the dark" about Trump's alleged participation in Epstein's abuse of young women."Attorney General Blanche may have engaged in criminal obstruction of justice while acting on a mission to protect Trump," the report alleges.It lays out how Blanche's meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell "potentially constituted witness tampering and obstruction of an official proceeding.""Blanche's apparent instructions not to discuss a specific Epstein victim, and how that victim could implicate Donald Trump, could easily run afoul of 18 U.S.C. § 1512, which forbids hindering or delaying the communication of information relating to the potential commission of a federal offense to a law enforcement officer, as well as corruptly influencing the testimony of any person in an official proceeding — such as a congressional interview and investigation," Democrats write in the report.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-dead-for-years-paedophile-jeffrey-epstein-finds-mention-in-over-500-campaign-ads-texas-alone-spent-10-million-1792839624663">US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million</a><h2>The DOJ response</h2>A Justice Department spokesperson said the report was "nothing more than a last-ditch effort by House Judiciary Democrats to mislead the public."The spokesperson said the DOJ complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act and made nearly 3 million documents related to Epstein available to the public. "The Department also freely offered members of Congress the opportunity to view the files unredacted. All these files were part of FBI investigations that spanned decades and these claims were investigated by agents at the time," the spokesperson said."While we cannot talk about the existence of any ongoing investigations, the Trump Administration is the only administration to prosecute Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell and make any of these documents available to the public," the spokesperson added.

House Judiciary Democrats have released an unsigned staff report alleging Trump was "an active participant in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of young women" and calling for an independent special counsel to investigate the president and Attorney General Todd Blanche. 

House Judiciary Committee Democrats on Monday (Oct 26) released an unsigned staff report laying out what they call "the case against Donald Trump emerging in the Epstein Files and DOJ's desperate efforts to cover it up," and are now calling for an independent special counsel to investigate the president, Attorney General Todd Blanche's alleged conflicts of interest, and the Justice Department's reluctance to share evidence with state and foreign law enforcement. "The women who survived Epstein deserve to be heard," the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said in a statement. "Congress must have the complete files required by law, and an independent special counsel must investigate Epstein's co-conspirators and DOJ's cover-up and ensure that state and foreign prosecutors have the evidence they need to pursue justice." The more than 50-page report alleges that Trump was "an active participant in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of young women in the mid-to-late 1990s." It also contains at least one entirely new allegation against the president, though it provides no direct evidence other than the woman's own conversations with Judiciary Committee staff. Notably, for years, Trump has denied that he engaged in any sexual misconduct with any woman connected to Epstein and has said he knew nothing about Epstein's crimes. He even claimed to have kicked out "creep" Epstein from his Mar-a-Lago resort in 2203. Also read | Trump accused of 'brutal' rape by ex-Miss Switzerland; Beatrice Keul alleges 'Don's best friend' Epstein facilitated assault in 1993 What the report claims Talking to MS Now, a Democratic Judiciary Committee member said that the report draws on publicly available accounts as well as conversations with survivors. The report repeats several other longstanding allegations against Trump. It also compares Trump's statements about Epstein in recent years to documentary evidence, including emails, deposition transcripts, Trump's prior public statements, and Trump's drawings and signatures. Among the discrepancies highlighted are inconsistencies with what Trump has said about his awareness of Epstein's crimes. The report suggests DOJ officials, including the attorney general, are "doing everything they can to keep the American people in the dark" about Trump's alleged participation in Epstein's abuse of young women. "Attorney General Blanche may have engaged in criminal obstruction of justice while acting on a mission to protect Trump," the report alleges. It lays out how Blanche's meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell "potentially constituted witness tampering and obstruction of an official proceeding." "Blanche's apparent instructions not to discuss a specific Epstein victim, and how that victim could implicate Donald Trump, could easily run afoul of 18 U.S.C. § 1512, which forbids hindering or delaying the communication of information relating to the potential commission of a federal offense to a law enforcement officer, as well as corruptly influencing the testimony of any person in an official proceeding — such as a congressional interview and investigation," Democrats write in the report. Also read | US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million The DOJ response A Justice Department spokesperson said the report was "nothing more than a last-ditch effort by House Judiciary Democrats to mislead the public." The spokesperson said the DOJ complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act and made nearly 3 million documents related to Epstein available to the public. "The Department also freely offered members of Congress the opportunity to view the files unredacted. All these files were part of FBI investigations that spanned decades and these claims were investigated by agents at the time," the spokesperson said. "While we cannot talk about the existence of any ongoing investigations, the Trump Administration is the only administration to prosecute Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell and make any of these documents available to the public," the spokesperson added.

House Judiciary Democrats have released an unsigned staff report alleging Trump was "an active participant in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of young women" and calling for an independent special counsel to investigate the president and Attorney General Todd Blanche.&nbsp;

Democrats allege 'desperate efforts to cover up' Trump's involvement in Jeffrey Epstein sex crimes, release 50-page report

A federal appeals court on Monday (Oct 26) refused to order California to set aside 20,000 ballots that President Donald Trump's administration says were likely cast by noncitizens, ruling that the government did not give the lower court enough time to weigh the case. The 2-1 decision sends the matter back to the district judge, who has scheduled arguments for later this week. The setback comes with just 9 days left for the US midterms.<h2>Trouble of his "own making"</h2>The majority found that the Trump administration, by its "own making", created a time crunch by waiting until late in the election season and then improperly trying to rush District Judge David Carter. "That these proceedings encroach on the cusp of an election is a delay entirely of the United States' own making," wrote Judge Gabriel Sanchez, a Biden appointee and one of the two judges in the majority. The other was Judge Mark Bennett, a Trump pick.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-dead-for-years-paedophile-jeffrey-epstein-finds-mention-in-over-500-campaign-ads-texas-alone-spent-10-million-1792839624663">US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million</a>Judge Sanchez noted that ballots began going out on Oct. 1, and the Justice Department waited weeks to file its lawsuit. Notably, some ballots have already been tallied, including those of alleged noncitizens. He also said the administration's demand of state election officials to sequester the ballots until citizenship is redetermined was likely impossible to carry out.Judge Patrick Bumatay, a Trump pick, dissented, arguing the federal government has the power to demand the ballots not be counted and that the Supremacy Clause lets the administration sue to enforce that. He called the emergency serious enough that the appeals court should have stepped in."We should've granted the federal government relief — federal law precludes California from commingling ballots likely cast by aliens with legitimate ballots, because it encourages and induces illegal voting," he wrote. "Stopping that practice for those identified as likely noncitizens is the bare minimum."<h2>A "welcome speed bump": Newsom responds</h2>California Gov. Gavin Newsom called the ruling "a welcome speed bump" for Trump's agenda and urged voters to punish the president at the polls."Vote early, go to a vote centre, put your ballot in a dropbox. If everyone who cares about democracy participates, this election won't be close — and none of Trump's lies or conspiracy theories will be able to call that result, and the will of people, into doubt," he added.A single district judge in Florida recently ruled that the federal law barring noncitizens from voting was unconstitutional. That decision is on appeal, and no other court has adopted that reasoning.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-us-midterm-bribe-5-000-dividend-1-2-trillion-promise-fiscal-hawks-and-the-voters-who-want-the-cheque-but-don-t-expect-it-1792228505050">US Midterms: Trump doubles down on $5,000 dividend as economists call it a 'half-baked political scheme'. Can a Republican win guarantee it?</a><h2>How the 20,000 names were found</h2>The 20,000 names identified by the federal government are far fewer than the 190,000 names Homeland Security said it spotted over the summer.The smaller tally came from taking a list of California voters, running it through third-party databases to match names to identities, then checking them in government files. DHS's citizenship agency looked for people with immigration files and then searched for evidence they had achieved citizenship. Those without such evidence were deemed good candidates to be noncitizens.That list was forwarded to Homeland Security Investigations, DHS's detective force, which reviewed it and produced the final list given to the state.State officials said they distrusted the process, pointing to previous DHS lists sent to other states that were found to have included actual citizens as potential noncitizens. Judge Sanchez, in Monday's ruling, said those problems likely persist.

A federal appeals court has refused to force California to sequester 20,000 ballots that the Trump administration says were likely cast by noncitizens, ruling 2-1 that the government waited too long to bring the case. All you need to know.

A federal appeals court on Monday (Oct 26) refused to order California to set aside 20,000 ballots that President Donald Trump's administration says were likely cast by noncitizens, ruling that the government did not give the lower court enough time to weigh the case. The 2-1 decision sends the matter back to the district judge, who has scheduled arguments for later this week. The setback comes with just 9 days left for the US midterms. Trouble of his "own making" The majority found that the Trump administration, by its "own making", created a time crunch by waiting until late in the election season and then improperly trying to rush District Judge David Carter. "That these proceedings encroach on the cusp of an election is a delay entirely of the United States' own making," wrote Judge Gabriel Sanchez, a Biden appointee and one of the two judges in the majority. The other was Judge Mark Bennett, a Trump pick. Also read | US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million Judge Sanchez noted that ballots began going out on Oct. 1, and the Justice Department waited weeks to file its lawsuit. Notably, some ballots have already been tallied, including those of alleged noncitizens. He also said the administration's demand of state election officials to sequester the ballots until citizenship is redetermined was likely impossible to carry out. Judge Patrick Bumatay, a Trump pick, dissented, arguing the federal government has the power to demand the ballots not be counted and that the Supremacy Clause lets the administration sue to enforce that. He called the emergency serious enough that the appeals court should have stepped in. "We should've granted the federal government relief — federal law precludes California from commingling ballots likely cast by aliens with legitimate ballots, because it encourages and induces illegal voting," he wrote. "Stopping that practice for those identified as likely noncitizens is the bare minimum." A "welcome speed bump": Newsom responds California Gov. Gavin Newsom called the ruling "a welcome speed bump" for Trump's agenda and urged voters to punish the president at the polls. "Vote early, go to a vote centre, put your ballot in a dropbox. If everyone who cares about democracy participates, this election won't be close — and none of Trump's lies or conspiracy theories will be able to call that result, and the will of people, into doubt," he added. A single district judge in Florida recently ruled that the federal law barring noncitizens from voting was unconstitutional. That decision is on appeal, and no other court has adopted that reasoning. Also read | US Midterms: Trump doubles down on $5,000 dividend as economists call it a 'half-baked political scheme'. Can a Republican win guarantee it? How the 20,000 names were found The 20,000 names identified by the federal government are far fewer than the 190,000 names Homeland Security said it spotted over the summer. The smaller tally came from taking a list of California voters, running it through third-party databases to match names to identities, then checking them in government files. DHS's citizenship agency looked for people with immigration files and then searched for evidence they had achieved citizenship. Those without such evidence were deemed good candidates to be noncitizens. That list was forwarded to Homeland Security Investigations, DHS's detective force, which reviewed it and produced the final list given to the state. State officials said they distrusted the process, pointing to previous DHS lists sent to other states that were found to have included actual citizens as potential noncitizens. Judge Sanchez, in Monday's ruling, said those problems likely persist.

A federal appeals court has refused to force California to sequester 20,000 ballots that the Trump administration says were likely cast by noncitizens, ruling 2-1 that the government waited too long to bring the case. All you need to know.

Appeals court blocks Trump bid to block 20,000 ballots of suspected non-citizens in California. Here's why

Flavio Bolsonaro said on Monday that he would lead the opposition to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's government, a day after refusing to concede defeat to the incumbent in the presidential election. "To withstand the chaos, I'm going to organize the opposition," the right-wing senator and son of former president Jair Bolsonaro said.<h2>Trump calls Brazil election 'rigged' after ally's defeat</h2>US President Donald Trump on Monday described Brazil's election as ‘rigged’ and ‘so corrupt’ after Lula defeated his right-wing ally Flavio Bolsonaro. The 45-year-old son of far-right former president Jair Bolsonaro has called for the election result to be annulled, challenging an outcome that denied Trump the political shift in South America he had hoped for. "It looked terrible to me," Trump told reporters as he left Washington for a campaign rally ahead of next week's US midterm elections. “I didn't take sides but it looked like another rigged election frankly... it was a terrible look for the world.”&nbsp;&nbsp;An ally of the Bolsonaro family, Trump had appeared to favour Flavio's victory. The Brazilian senator had pledged to join a growing group of conservative Latin American leaders seeking closer ties with Washington. "Elections have to be indisputable and it looked very bad to me," Trump continued. "I didn't endorse anybody or anything, but I watched the election and it looked so corrupt, so terrible."&nbsp;However, Trump declined to say whether he would take any action in response to the Brazilian election result. "I'm not running for Brazil, I'm running for the USA," Trump said. "I like Lula, I get along with him very well. I just thought it was a very bad look, the way it was tabulated -- with the extension."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-1-million-before-us-midterms-what-is-he-asking-americans-to-report-1793046416131">Trump offers $1 million before US midterms. What is he asking Americans to report?</a><h2>Bolsonaro says Supreme Court justice barred him from leaving Brazil</h2>Flavio Bolsonaro said on Monday that a Supreme Court justice had prohibited him from leaving Brazil, one day after his defeat in the presidential election and his refusal to concede to Lula. The senator received 48.2% of the vote, compared with 51.8% for incumbent President Lula. "I was served with an order to hand over my passports and I am also banned from leaving the country," he said in a video posted to Instagram. Bolsonaro described the move as a clear attempt to intimidate me.&nbsp;The senator is under investigation over alleged corruption and money laundering related to the financing of a biopic about his father. He has denied any wrongdoing. The 45-year-old said the passport order stemmed from comments by his brother, Eduardo Bolsonaro, a former lawmaker based in the United States, who had said Flavio would have to leave Brazil if he lost the election. "I never said that," the defeated candidate insisted in the Instagram video.

Flavio Bolsonaro refuses to concede Brazil's presidential election to Lula, vows to lead the opposition and claims a court barred him from leaving Brazil as Trump calls the vote 'rigged'

Flavio Bolsonaro said on Monday that he would lead the opposition to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's government, a day after refusing to concede defeat to the incumbent in the presidential election. "To withstand the chaos, I'm going to organize the opposition," the right-wing senator and son of former president Jair Bolsonaro said. Trump calls Brazil election 'rigged' after ally's defeat US President Donald Trump on Monday described Brazil's election as ‘rigged’ and ‘so corrupt’ after Lula defeated his right-wing ally Flavio Bolsonaro. The 45-year-old son of far-right former president Jair Bolsonaro has called for the election result to be annulled, challenging an outcome that denied Trump the political shift in South America he had hoped for. "It looked terrible to me," Trump told reporters as he left Washington for a campaign rally ahead of next week's US midterm elections. “I didn't take sides but it looked like another rigged election frankly... it was a terrible look for the world.” An ally of the Bolsonaro family, Trump had appeared to favour Flavio's victory. The Brazilian senator had pledged to join a growing group of conservative Latin American leaders seeking closer ties with Washington. "Elections have to be indisputable and it looked very bad to me," Trump continued. "I didn't endorse anybody or anything, but I watched the election and it looked so corrupt, so terrible." However, Trump declined to say whether he would take any action in response to the Brazilian election result. "I'm not running for Brazil, I'm running for the USA," Trump said. "I like Lula, I get along with him very well. I just thought it was a very bad look, the way it was tabulated -- with the extension." Also Read: Trump offers $1 million before US midterms. What is he asking Americans to report? Bolsonaro says Supreme Court justice barred him from leaving Brazil Flavio Bolsonaro said on Monday that a Supreme Court justice had prohibited him from leaving Brazil, one day after his defeat in the presidential election and his refusal to concede to Lula. The senator received 48.2% of the vote, compared with 51.8% for incumbent President Lula. "I was served with an order to hand over my passports and I am also banned from leaving the country," he said in a video posted to Instagram. Bolsonaro described the move as a clear attempt to intimidate me. The senator is under investigation over alleged corruption and money laundering related to the financing of a biopic about his father. He has denied any wrongdoing. The 45-year-old said the passport order stemmed from comments by his brother, Eduardo Bolsonaro, a former lawmaker based in the United States, who had said Flavio would have to leave Brazil if he lost the election. "I never said that," the defeated candidate insisted in the Instagram video.

Flavio Bolsonaro rejects Brazil's election result and vows to oppose Lula as Trump calls the vote 'rigged' and questions the outcome

'I'll organise the Opposition': Bolsonaro vows to challenge Lula government after defeat, Trump calls vote 'rigged'

US President Donald Trump on Monday announced a $1 million reward for information about voter fraud, making another attempt to cast doubt on the electoral process ahead of the US midterm elections and promote his false claim that he won the 2020 presidential election. "Anybody reporting Voter Fraud in the past Elections, or the upcoming 2026 Midterm Election, will be paid $1,000,000 upon the arrest and conviction of those that created the Fraud!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social network.&nbsp;The president did not provide details about how the reward would be financed or administered. With the November 3 elections only eight days away, polls indicate that Democrats are gaining ground as Republicans work to maintain control of both chambers of Congress. A Democratic victory could hinder Trump's legislative agenda and open his administration to congressional investigations during the final two years of his presidency. Trump has repeatedly made unsubstantiated allegations of election fraud, including his claim that he won the 2020 presidential election.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-oil-and-gas-holdings-surge-to-81-6-million-amid-iran-war-as-americans-face-rising-fuel-costs-1793045489250">Trump’s oil and gas holdings surge to $81.6 million amid Iran war as Americans face rising fuel costs</a>

<h2>Trump makes fresh election-related promises</h2>The reward announcement comes after a series of extraordinary promises by Trump ahead of the midterm elections. Among them was a proposal to give $5,000 to every adult American citizen if Republicans retain control of both chambers of Congress. The plan would cost more than $1 trillion and require congressional approval. Trump has also linked compensation for veterans who became ill after exposure to contaminated water at a North Carolina military base to a Republican election victory.<h2>Justice Department sues over Alaska Senate election</h2>Meanwhile, the Justice Department has filed a lawsuit seeking to prevent Alaska from certifying its Senate election results if Republican incumbent Dan Sullivan loses. The department cited the possibility of voter confusion involving another candidate with the same name. Trump acknowledged that he personally ordered the lawsuit, although his attorney general denied that the administration was seeking to overturn the election result.

Donald Trump announces a $1 million reward for voter fraud information ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections amid renewed election fraud claims

US President Donald Trump on Monday announced a $1 million reward for information about voter fraud, making another attempt to cast doubt on the electoral process ahead of the US midterm elections and promote his false claim that he won the 2020 presidential election. "Anybody reporting Voter Fraud in the past Elections, or the upcoming 2026 Midterm Election, will be paid $1,000,000 upon the arrest and conviction of those that created the Fraud!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social network. The president did not provide details about how the reward would be financed or administered. With the November 3 elections only eight days away, polls indicate that Democrats are gaining ground as Republicans work to maintain control of both chambers of Congress. A Democratic victory could hinder Trump's legislative agenda and open his administration to congressional investigations during the final two years of his presidency. Trump has repeatedly made unsubstantiated allegations of election fraud, including his claim that he won the 2020 presidential election. Also Read: Trump’s oil and gas holdings surge to $81.6 million amid Iran war as Americans face rising fuel costs

Trump offers $1 million for voter fraud information ahead of US midterms as Democrats gain ground and Republicans fight to retain Congress

Trump offers $1 million before US midterms. What is he asking Americans to report?

President Donald Trump’s personal oil and gas holdings have risen significantly since the end of 2025, reaching an estimated value of between $22.5 million and $81.6 million, compared with between $12.6 million and $46 million at the end of last year, according to a new report from Democrats on the Congressional Joint Economic Committee. According to the Democratic minority, the stocks held by Trump have increased in value by an average of 43% since the end of 2025. The findings are based on data from LSEG Data Analytics.&nbsp;The report also found that Trump purchased between $4.7 million and $17.5 million in oil and gas stocks between March, after the war started, and the end of August, the latest period for which data was available. During the same timeframe, he sold between $2 million and $5.4 million in oil and gas stocks. CBS News exclusively obtained the report, which is based on Trump’s financial disclosures filed with the Office of Government Ethics. The filings require individuals to report transactions within value ranges rather than disclose exact amounts.&nbsp;The findings come as Americans face substantially higher gasoline prices amid the economic effects of the war. On Saturday night in Georgia, Trump boasted about the financial gains being made by the US oil and gas industry. "And while oil prices are temporarily high and will be falling dramatically in a short period of time, as soon as that war's over, because there's so much oil," he told the crowd. "All in the Hormuz Strait, there are ships waiting to come, we're getting them out so fast. The United States oil and gas business is making hundreds of billions of dollars. … Our country is making hundreds of billions of dollars because of what's happened in the Middle East."&nbsp;Trump also said his advisers had warned him against discussing the amount of money the oil and gas industry was making amid the turmoil in the Middle East. The wealthiest person to have served as president, Trump maintains a broad stock portfolio with investments across multiple sectors of the economy. CBS News has previously reported that he has executed thousands of stock and securities transactions this year, involving hundreds of millions of dollars. The White House has said Trump does not personally make investment decisions and that his money managers seek to replicate major stock market indexes.&nbsp;"President Trump only acts in the best interests of the American public, which is why they overwhelmingly reelected him to this office, despite years of lies and false accusations against him and his businesses," said White House spokesman Davis Ingle. Ingle said Trump's stock and bond portfolio is independently managed by third-party financial institutions and all his holdings are maintained in discretionary accounts and invested through computer-based model portfolios that automatically replicate recognized indexes." "Neither President Trump nor any member of his family has any ability to direct, influence, or provide input regarding how the portfolio is invested or when investments are bought or sold," Ingle added. “All investment decisions are made entirely by independent managers. There are no conflicts of interest.” During a July 2026 interview with CNBC, Trump said his son, Eric Trump, also manages his finances.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maurene-comey-daughter-of-ex-fbi-director-james-comey-was-unlawfully-fired-as-federal-prosecutor-judge-rules-1793042366048">Maurene Comey, daughter of ex-FBI director James Comey, was unlawfully fired as federal prosecutor, judge rules</a><h2>Energy stocks rally as fuel prices rise</h2>Energy stocks have climbed as the Iran war has driven oil and gasoline prices to their highest levels in years, boosting oil companies' profits. Shares of energy companies listed on the S&amp;P 500 have risen more than 50% since the beginning of the year, significantly outperforming the broader index, which has gained approximately 11%. In early February, before the war with Iran began at the end of the month, the national average price of regular gasoline was $2.87 per gallon, while diesel cost $3.68 per gallon.&nbsp;Eight months later, regular gasoline costs $4.29 per gallon on average, while diesel has reached $6.28 per gallon. Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, is also trading above $115 per barrel, compared with less than $75 per barrel on the day before the war began.<h2>Trump has criticised oil companies over profits</h2>Trump's public statements have occasionally highlighted the influence his comments can have on policy and markets. In August, he singled out ExxonMobil and Chevron, accusing the companies of earning excessive profits from fuel. "They're making too much money, okay?" he said in the Oval Office. "Based on a shortage, they're making too much money. I don't like it. And I should be the last one to say because I'm a big free enterprise guy, nobody bigger."&nbsp;The president's oil and gas stock transactions account for a relatively small share of his overall wealth. Forbes estimated his net worth at approximately $7 billion as of September. CBS News reviewed Trump's oil and gas transactions in August. One notable transaction occurred on April 7, the day he announced a ceasefire in the war. According to a financial disclosure filed in late June, Trump's investment accounts sold between $500,000 and $1 million worth of ExxonMobil stock that day. ExxonMobil shares closed at $163.91 on April 7, before Trump announced the ceasefire that evening. The stock opened at $153.52 on April 8, a decline of more than 6%.

Trump’s oil and gas holdings have risen to as much as $81.6 million amid the Iran war, as higher energy prices drive up costs for Americans

President Donald Trump’s personal oil and gas holdings have risen significantly since the end of 2025, reaching an estimated value of between $22.5 million and $81.6 million, compared with between $12.6 million and $46 million at the end of last year, according to a new report from Democrats on the Congressional Joint Economic Committee. According to the Democratic minority, the stocks held by Trump have increased in value by an average of 43% since the end of 2025. The findings are based on data from LSEG Data Analytics. The report also found that Trump purchased between $4.7 million and $17.5 million in oil and gas stocks between March, after the war started, and the end of August, the latest period for which data was available. During the same timeframe, he sold between $2 million and $5.4 million in oil and gas stocks. CBS News exclusively obtained the report, which is based on Trump’s financial disclosures filed with the Office of Government Ethics. The filings require individuals to report transactions within value ranges rather than disclose exact amounts. The findings come as Americans face substantially higher gasoline prices amid the economic effects of the war. On Saturday night in Georgia, Trump boasted about the financial gains being made by the US oil and gas industry. "And while oil prices are temporarily high and will be falling dramatically in a short period of time, as soon as that war's over, because there's so much oil," he told the crowd. "All in the Hormuz Strait, there are ships waiting to come, we're getting them out so fast. The United States oil and gas business is making hundreds of billions of dollars. … Our country is making hundreds of billions of dollars because of what's happened in the Middle East." Trump also said his advisers had warned him against discussing the amount of money the oil and gas industry was making amid the turmoil in the Middle East. The wealthiest person to have served as president, Trump maintains a broad stock portfolio with investments across multiple sectors of the economy. CBS News has previously reported that he has executed thousands of stock and securities transactions this year, involving hundreds of millions of dollars. The White House has said Trump does not personally make investment decisions and that his money managers seek to replicate major stock market indexes. "President Trump only acts in the best interests of the American public, which is why they overwhelmingly reelected him to this office, despite years of lies and false accusations against him and his businesses," said White House spokesman Davis Ingle. Ingle said Trump's stock and bond portfolio is independently managed by third-party financial institutions and all his holdings are maintained in discretionary accounts and invested through computer-based model portfolios that automatically replicate recognized indexes." "Neither President Trump nor any member of his family has any ability to direct, influence, or provide input regarding how the portfolio is invested or when investments are bought or sold," Ingle added. “All investment decisions are made entirely by independent managers. There are no conflicts of interest.” During a July 2026 interview with CNBC, Trump said his son, Eric Trump, also manages his finances. Also Read: Maurene Comey, daughter of ex-FBI director James Comey, was unlawfully fired as federal prosecutor, judge rules Energy stocks rally as fuel prices rise Energy stocks have climbed as the Iran war has driven oil and gasoline prices to their highest levels in years, boosting oil companies' profits. Shares of energy companies listed on the S&P 500 have risen more than 50% since the beginning of the year, significantly outperforming the broader index, which has gained approximately 11%. In early February, before the war with Iran began at the end of the month, the national average price of regular gasoline was $2.87 per gallon, while diesel cost $3.68 per gallon. Eight months later, regular gasoline costs $4.29 per gallon on average, while diesel has reached $6.28 per gallon. Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, is also trading above $115 per barrel, compared with less than $75 per barrel on the day before the war began. Trump has criticised oil companies over profits Trump's public statements have occasionally highlighted the influence his comments can have on policy and markets. In August, he singled out ExxonMobil and Chevron, accusing the companies of earning excessive profits from fuel. "They're making too much money, okay?" he said in the Oval Office. "Based on a shortage, they're making too much money. I don't like it. And I should be the last one to say because I'm a big free enterprise guy, nobody bigger." The president's oil and gas stock transactions account for a relatively small share of his overall wealth. Forbes estimated his net worth at approximately $7 billion as of September. CBS News reviewed Trump's oil and gas transactions in August. One notable transaction occurred on April 7, the day he announced a ceasefire in the war. According to a financial disclosure filed in late June, Trump's investment accounts sold between $500,000 and $1 million worth of ExxonMobil stock that day. ExxonMobil shares closed at $163.91 on April 7, before Trump announced the ceasefire that evening. The stock opened at $153.52 on April 8, a decline of more than 6%.

Trump’s oil and gas holdings have surged amid the Iran war, while rising fuel prices increase costs for American households

Trump’s oil and gas holdings surge to $81.6 million amid Iran war as Americans face rising fuel costs

Is rapper Nicki Minaj the next White House press secretary? Her recent outing to Michigan with the US President, Donald Trump, in Air Force One prompted White House communications director Steven Cheung to jokingly remark, “Ladies and gentlemen, I think we may have found the new White House Press Secretary!”&nbsp;White House communications director Steven Cheung on Sunday jokingly suggested that rapper Nicki Minaj could become the next White House press secretary after she accompanied US President Donald Trump aboard Air Force One to Michigan.&nbsp;“Ladies and gentlemen, I think we may have found the new White House Press Secretary!” Cheung wrote on X, sharing a video of the rapper. The remark came days after Katie Zachariah resigned from the position just five days into the job.&nbsp;&nbsp;The White House official channel joined in with an emoji but no comments, further adding to the rumour mill.&nbsp;Minaj has been a vocal Trump Supporter for a long time. On Sunday, she was seen walking alongside the president as they stepped out of Air Force One at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. Dressed in a head-to-toe Gucci outfit, the “Super Bass” singer joined Trump for a rally in Michigan, marking another public appearance alongside the Republican president.<h2>Nicki Minaj shares inside glimpse of Air Force One</h2>The rapper took to her social media to share a short clip with the caption "#AirForceOneBARBIE ✈️"&nbsp;She later shared another video, giving a brief and rare glimpse of the insides of the aircraft.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;While addressing the audience at the rally, Minaj praised Trump and said, “He represents resilience. You know, so many people, um, were maybe giving up a little bit, a little bit hopeless. And since he's come back, he's changed the energy of our country and um he's given us a future to look forward to, a brighter future for us and our children. So, let's make some noise for this great man. I love him so much.”&nbsp;Minaj added, “We need this place to lead in the movement, right? And we're not going to give up because we want our children to grow up in a place where we can be proud of.”&nbsp;“We don't want our children to be bombarded with sex changes, right? We don't want that for our children. We want people to leave the children alone. Leave them out of it. Right? So, President Trump, it is an honour to stand with you every single time, and I will continue to support you forever," she said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rapper-nicki-minaj-sued-by-former-tour-employee-over-assault-rappers-lawyer-denies-8590388">Nicki Minaj sued by former tour employee over physical assault, rapper's lawyer reacts</a><h2>'One hell of a beautifull a**’</h2>Trump meanwhile talked about the rapper’s body and said, “By the way, I looked at one hell of a beautiful a** before – Nicki Minaj.” Trump said, prompting celebratory woos from the crowd. “That’s hard to miss. That – stand up! That’s hard to miss.” Trump’s remark drew sharp criticism on social media.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/hell-of-a-beautiful-a-trump-compliments-nicki-minaj-as-rapper-joins-him-in-michigan-rally-1792990382567">'Hell of a beautiful a**': Trump compliments Nicki Minaj as rapper joins him in Michigan rally</a>&nbsp;Trump subsequently expressed hope that Minaj had not taken offence to his comment. “I hope Nicki wasn’t insulted, but we love Nicki. She’s been with us for a long time,” he said.

A day after she attended a rally in Michigan along with the US President Donald Trump, rapper Nicki Minaj shared a video on Instagram giving an inside glimpse of the Air Force One. 

Is rapper Nicki Minaj the next White House press secretary? Her recent outing to Michigan with the US President, Donald Trump, in Air Force One prompted White House communications director Steven Cheung to jokingly remark, “Ladies and gentlemen, I think we may have found the new White House Press Secretary!” White House communications director Steven Cheung on Sunday jokingly suggested that rapper Nicki Minaj could become the next White House press secretary after she accompanied US President Donald Trump aboard Air Force One to Michigan. “Ladies and gentlemen, I think we may have found the new White House Press Secretary!” Cheung wrote on X, sharing a video of the rapper. The remark came days after Katie Zachariah resigned from the position just five days into the job. The White House official channel joined in with an emoji but no comments, further adding to the rumour mill. Minaj has been a vocal Trump Supporter for a long time. On Sunday, she was seen walking alongside the president as they stepped out of Air Force One at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. Dressed in a head-to-toe Gucci outfit, the “Super Bass” singer joined Trump for a rally in Michigan, marking another public appearance alongside the Republican president. Nicki Minaj shares inside glimpse of Air Force One The rapper took to her social media to share a short clip with the caption "#AirForceOneBARBIE ✈️" She later shared another video, giving a brief and rare glimpse of the insides of the aircraft.

A day after she attended a rally in Michigan along with the US President Donald Trump, rapper Nicki Minaj shared a video on Instagram giving an inside glimpse of the Air Force One.&nbsp;

Nicki Minaj as next White House Press Secretary? Rapper sparks speculation after sharing inside glimpse of Air Force One

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev on Sunday suggested that Donald Trump should have Volodymyr Zelensky assassinated. Medvedev, who is a close ally of Vladimir Putin, said in a public statement that he should "summon the secretary of war and the CIA director and tell them to take care of this 'unfortunate little problem,'" according to The Moscow Times.&nbsp;"After all, the man does far more damage to Trump's real interests than all the fallout from Trump's imaginary grievances against Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran combined," he added.&nbsp;Medvedev currently serves as Putin's deputy on the Kremlin's security council. He further said that the "how, where, or by what means" is irrelevant. He tried to instigate Trump into taking the step by trying to insinuate him against Zelensky. Medvedev said that Zelensky allegedly insults Trump and demands money and weapons from the United States. He accused Zelensky of refusing to accept proposals for peace talks.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-drone-attacks-six-dead-31-injured-1792933111981">Russia-Ukraine drone attacks kill 6, injure 31 across both countries</a>&nbsp;He also accused Zelensky of embezzling American aid and of creating an environment of possible nuclear conflict between Russia and NATO. &nbsp;Medvedev also slammed Ukraine for strikes on Russian oil refineries. He did not provide any evidence for the accusations made against Ukraine and Zelensky.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Russia-Ukraine war has been going on for over four years. The assassination appeal comes as Russia accused Ukraine of using lethal British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles and drones to strike a defence facility in Yelets, Liptsek region. The establishment is a critical producer of batteries and accumulators for missile systems, aviation, and other military hardware.<h2>Medvedev accuses Zelensky of harbouring a ‘grudge’ against Trump</h2>Medvedev's latest move is an attempt to turn Trump against Zelensky. He made several nasty and unsubstantiated comments, including saying that Zelensky holds a "major grudge" against the US president "and is being downright disrespectful to him at every turn." His other accusation was that the Ukrainian president "pestered Trump like a fat green fly, rudely demanding money and weapons to keep the war against Russia going".&nbsp;He further said that Zelensky worked "day in and day out" to turn Western leaders against Trump. Medvedev further said Zelensky does not seek peace, as he "repeatedly told Trump and his aides to get lost whenever they floated proposals for negotiating an end to the conflict".&nbsp; &nbsp;

Dmitry Medvedev suggested Donald Trump should have Zelensky assassinated, accusing him of insulting him, embezzling American aid and pushing Russia and NATO towards a nuclear conflict. He told Trump that Zelensky is damaging Trump's interests.

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev on Sunday suggested that Donald Trump should have Volodymyr Zelensky assassinated. Medvedev, who is a close ally of Vladimir Putin, said in a public statement that he should "summon the secretary of war and the CIA director and tell them to take care of this 'unfortunate little problem,'" according to The Moscow Times. "After all, the man does far more damage to Trump's real interests than all the fallout from Trump's imaginary grievances against Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran combined," he added. Medvedev currently serves as Putin's deputy on the Kremlin's security council. He further said that the "how, where, or by what means" is irrelevant. He tried to instigate Trump into taking the step by trying to insinuate him against Zelensky. Medvedev said that Zelensky allegedly insults Trump and demands money and weapons from the United States. He accused Zelensky of refusing to accept proposals for peace talks. Also Read: Russia-Ukraine drone attacks kill 6, injure 31 across both countries He also accused Zelensky of embezzling American aid and of creating an environment of possible nuclear conflict between Russia and NATO. Medvedev also slammed Ukraine for strikes on Russian oil refineries. He did not provide any evidence for the accusations made against Ukraine and Zelensky. The Russia-Ukraine war has been going on for over four years. The assassination appeal comes as Russia accused Ukraine of using lethal British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles and drones to strike a defence facility in Yelets, Liptsek region. The establishment is a critical producer of batteries and accumulators for missile systems, aviation, and other military hardware. Medvedev accuses Zelensky of harbouring a ‘grudge’ against Trump Medvedev's latest move is an attempt to turn Trump against Zelensky. He made several nasty and unsubstantiated comments, including saying that Zelensky holds a "major grudge" against the US president "and is being downright disrespectful to him at every turn." His other accusation was that the Ukrainian president "pestered Trump like a fat green fly, rudely demanding money and weapons to keep the war against Russia going". He further said that Zelensky worked "day in and day out" to turn Western leaders against Trump. Medvedev further said Zelensky does not seek peace, as he "repeatedly told Trump and his aides to get lost whenever they floated proposals for negotiating an end to the conflict".

Dmitry Medvedev suggested Donald Trump should have Zelensky assassinated, accusing him of insulting him, embezzling American aid and pushing Russia and NATO towards a nuclear conflict. He told Trump that Zelensky is damaging Trump's interests.

Medvedev says Trump should have Zelensky 'assassinated' - 'Take care of this unfortunate little problem'

US President Donald Trump has publicly turned against comedian and television host Bill Maher days after welcoming him to the White House for dinner. In a lengthy Truth Social post published on October 25, Trump attacked Maher’s television show, questioned his credibility and criticised his remarks following their latest meeting. The post, which ran to 1,323 words, followed Maher’s account of the dinner on HBO’s Real Time With Bill Maher, where the comedian discussed their conversation while continuing to poke fun at the president<h2>Trump launches lengthy attack on Bill Maher</h2>Donald Trump has launched a fresh public attack on Bill Maher in a Truth Social post, criticising the comedian in a lengthy Truth Social post following their latest White House dinner. The post followed Maher's discussion of his latest dinner with Trump during Friday's episode of Real Time With Bill Maher, where he defended meeting with the president while continuing to criticise and joke about him&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/hell-of-a-beautiful-a-trump-compliments-nicki-minaj-as-rapper-joins-him-in-michigan-rally-1792990382567">'Hell of a beautiful a**': Trump compliments Nicki Minaj as rapper joins him in Michigan rally</a>&nbsp;The president began his October 25 message by calling Maher a “complete and total loser” before taking aim at his HBO programme, Real Time With Bill Maher. Trump questioned the show's popularity, criticised its content and accused the host of making misleading statements about him. US President&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/south-park-is-now-south-america-creators-take-swipe-at-trump-s-renaming-spree-1788922431375">South Park is now South America - creators take swipe at Trump's renaming spree</a>&nbsp;Trump stated, "I go and say face-to-face to the man the things you write in articles he'll never read. He also defiantly made clear that he enjoyed the experience, saying: "I like these dinners."<h2>Why Trump is upset with Bill Maher</h2>The latest dispute followed Maher’s appearance on his HBO show, where he spoke about meeting Trump at the White House on October 15. Maher defended his decision to attend despite criticism from some viewers who objected to his willingness to dine with a president he frequently mocks.&nbsp;Also Read <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/so-hot-and-respected-donald-trump-heaps-praises-on-nicki-minaj-at-recent-event-then-makes-this-gaffe-1783405723831">'So hot and respected': Donald Trump heaps praises on Nicki Minaj at recent event, then makes this gaffe</a>&nbsp;During the programme, Maher said he enjoyed the dinner and argued that speaking directly to Trump allowed him to raise issues with the president face-to-face. He also continued making jokes about&nbsp;Trump’s political standing and administration.&nbsp;Also Read <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/reacher-star-alan-ritchson-slams-us-president-donald-trump-over-epstein-files-white-house-fires-back-1784975946494">Reacher star Alan Ritchson slams US President Donald Trump over Epstein files; White House fires back</a>&nbsp;Trump subsequently accused Maher of returning to his critical approach after the dinner. In his post, the president complained about the comedian’s comments and questioned the accuracy of his account of their interaction. &nbsp;

Trump called Maher a “complete and total loser” and told him not to contact him again after the comedian spoke about their October 15 White House dinner. Read to know more. 

US President Donald Trump has publicly turned against comedian and television host Bill Maher days after welcoming him to the White House for dinner. In a lengthy Truth Social post published on October 25, Trump attacked Maher’s television show, questioned his credibility and criticised his remarks following their latest meeting. The post, which ran to 1,323 words, followed Maher’s account of the dinner on HBO’s Real Time With Bill Maher, where the comedian discussed their conversation while continuing to poke fun at the president Trump launches lengthy attack on Bill Maher Donald Trump has launched a fresh public attack on Bill Maher in a Truth Social post, criticising the comedian in a lengthy Truth Social post following their latest White House dinner. The post followed Maher's discussion of his latest dinner with Trump during Friday's episode of Real Time With Bill Maher, where he defended meeting with the president while continuing to criticise and joke about him Also Read: 'Hell of a beautiful a**': Trump compliments Nicki Minaj as rapper joins him in Michigan rally The president began his October 25 message by calling Maher a “complete and total loser” before taking aim at his HBO programme, Real Time With Bill Maher. Trump questioned the show's popularity, criticised its content and accused the host of making misleading statements about him. US President Also Read: South Park is now South America - creators take swipe at Trump's renaming spree Trump stated, "I go and say face-to-face to the man the things you write in articles he'll never read. He also defiantly made clear that he enjoyed the experience, saying: "I like these dinners." Why Trump is upset with Bill Maher The latest dispute followed Maher’s appearance on his HBO show, where he spoke about meeting Trump at the White House on October 15. Maher defended his decision to attend despite criticism from some viewers who objected to his willingness to dine with a president he frequently mocks. Also Read 'So hot and respected': Donald Trump heaps praises on Nicki Minaj at recent event, then makes this gaffe During the programme, Maher said he enjoyed the dinner and argued that speaking directly to Trump allowed him to raise issues with the president face-to-face. He also continued making jokes about Trump’s political standing and administration. Also Read Reacher star Alan Ritchson slams US President Donald Trump over Epstein files; White House fires back Trump subsequently accused Maher of returning to his critical approach after the dinner. In his post, the president complained about the comedian’s comments and questioned the accuracy of his account of their interaction.

Trump called Maher a “complete and total loser” and told him not to contact him again after the comedian spoke about their October 15 White House dinner. Read to know more.&nbsp;

Donald Trump targets Bill Maher in lengthy post after White House dinner, says ‘Don’t call anymore’

US President Donald Trump has grabbed attention on social media after he praised Nicki Minaj’s appearance while addressing supporters at a Republican rally in Port Huron, Michigan, on Sunday, October 25. Before joining him at the event, the rapper had travelled with the president aboard Air Force One.<h2>Trump on Nicki Minaj</h2>During his speech, Trump referred to his recent comments about Republican Ohio Senator Jon Husted’s physique before bringing Minaj into the conversation.&nbsp;“By the way, I looked at one hell of a beautiful a** before – Nicki Minaj,” Trump said, leading to cheers from the crowd. He then asked the rapper to stand up, adding, “That’s hard to miss.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rapper-nicki-minaj-sued-by-former-tour-employee-over-assault-rappers-lawyer-denies-8590388">Nicki Minaj sued by former tour employee over physical assault, rapper's lawyer reacts</a>&nbsp;Trump subsequently expressed hope that Minaj had not taken offence to his comment. “I hope Nicki wasn’t insulted, but we love Nicki. She’s been with us for a long time,” he said.&nbsp;The president also complimented her after she finished addressing the audience. “She never looked more beautiful,” he said, adding, “She gets it. She's smart.”&nbsp;Earlier in his speech, Trump addressed the attention surrounding his remarks about Husted, whose athletic background he had referenced while discussing his appearance.&nbsp;“I don’t do this with men very often. I started examining his body, because I didn’t know he was a great athlete,” Trump said, as reported by The Guardian.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/nicki-minaj-defends-her-support-for-donald-trump-not-going-to-ever-make-excuses-1789795048524">Nicki Minaj defends her support for Donald Trump</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Ladies and gentlemen, I think we may have found the new White House Press Secretary! @NICKIMINAJ https://t.co/petoprxVoX&mdash; Steven Cheung (@StevenCheung47) <a href="https://x.com/StevenCheung47/status/2114388391429124121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/nicki-minaj-s-controversies-from-marijuana-arrest-to-cardi-b-show-incident-1769764233230">Nicki Minaj's controversies: From marijuana arrest to Cardi B show incident</a>&nbsp;The president dismissed criticism of his earlier comments as “fake news” and maintained that his remarks had been made in jest. He also described looking at Husted’s physique before turning his attention to Minaj.<h2>Nicki Minaj backs Trump</h2>The singer used her appearance at the Michigan rally to express her support for Trump. Wearing a gold-coloured Gucci suit, the 43-year-old rapper praised the president saying, “I am so honoured to be working with this president. He represents resilience. You know, so many people um were maybe giving up a little bit, a little bit hopeless. And since he's come back, he's changed the energy of our country and um he's given us a a a future to look forward to, a brighter future for us and our children. So, let's make some noise for this great man. I love him so much."&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/nicky-minaj-throws-shade-at-trevor-noah-post-grammy-joke-roasts-chrissy-teigen-and-more-in-a-series-of-posts-1770018367177"> Nicky Minaj throws shade at Trevor Noah post Grammy joke, roasts Chrissy Teigen and more in a series of posts</a> She also called on voters to support Republican candidates in the state. "We really need all these great people to be elected, because this is a major turning point for our country,” Minaj said.&nbsp;This comes amid speculation about a possible role for her in the Trump administration. Before the rally, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung shared a video featuring the rapper aboard Air Force One.&nbsp;In the clip, Minaj discussed why she believed the US economy was performing well under Trump.Cheung accompanied the video with the caption, “Ladies and gentlemen, I think we may have found the new White House Press Secretary!”

US President Donald Trump recently praised Nicki Minaj’s appearance at a Michigan rally. He made a remark about her figure. At the event, Minaj also urged voters to back Trump ahead of the US midterm elections.

US President Donald Trump has grabbed attention on social media after he praised Nicki Minaj’s appearance while addressing supporters at a Republican rally in Port Huron, Michigan, on Sunday, October 25. Before joining him at the event, the rapper had travelled with the president aboard Air Force One. Trump on Nicki Minaj During his speech, Trump referred to his recent comments about Republican Ohio Senator Jon Husted’s physique before bringing Minaj into the conversation. “By the way, I looked at one hell of a beautiful a** before – Nicki Minaj,” Trump said, leading to cheers from the crowd. He then asked the rapper to stand up, adding, “That’s hard to miss.” Also Read: Nicki Minaj sued by former tour employee over physical assault, rapper's lawyer reacts Trump subsequently expressed hope that Minaj had not taken offence to his comment. “I hope Nicki wasn’t insulted, but we love Nicki. She’s been with us for a long time,” he said. The president also complimented her after she finished addressing the audience. “She never looked more beautiful,” he said, adding, “She gets it. She's smart.” Earlier in his speech, Trump addressed the attention surrounding his remarks about Husted, whose athletic background he had referenced while discussing his appearance. “I don’t do this with men very often. I started examining his body, because I didn’t know he was a great athlete,” Trump said, as reported by The Guardian. Also Read: Nicki Minaj defends her support for Donald Trump

US President Donald Trump recently praised Nicki Minaj’s appearance at a Michigan rally. He made a remark about her figure. At the event, Minaj also urged voters to back Trump ahead of the US midterm elections.

'Hell of a beautiful a**': Trump compliments Nicki Minaj as rapper joins him in Michigan rally

With just two weeks left for the US midterms 2026, the campaigning has taken a sharp turn, with candidates across the country accusing rivals of going easy on child predators. As per an NBC News report, more than 500 House, Senate and gubernatorial ads this cycle have focused on disgraced financier, convicted sex trafficker, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and have used the phrases "child predator," "predator" or “paedophile,” according to AdImpact, which tracks campaign advertising. That is roughly two per cent of all tracked ads. As per the reports, candidates across the board have ramped up the attacks sharply this month in nearly every competitive state.Democrats and allied groups back nearly three in four of these spots. Many tie directly to the release, or the refusal to release, of files connected to Jeffrey Epstein. Democrats have hit Republicans for voting against making more information public or for accepting donations from people whose names appeared in unredacted documents released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act.Note: A name in those files did not mean the person had committed a crime.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-us-midterm-bribe-5-000-dividend-1-2-trillion-promise-fiscal-hawks-and-the-voters-who-want-the-cheque-but-don-t-expect-it-1792228505050">US Midterms: Trump doubles down on $5,000 dividend as economists call it a 'half-baked political scheme'. Can a Republican win guarantee it?</a><h2>Texas leads the spending</h2>No state has put more money behind these ads than Texas, where upward of $38 million has been spent in the fiercely contested Senate race and more than $8 million in two House races.Democrat James Talarico, a state lawmaker, has hammered Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton over a plea deal his office offered a Waco man charged with sexually abusing a boy. In one campaign spot, Talarico walks through a warehouse as the words "NEVER GIVEN AN EPSTEIN-STYLE DEAL" flash behind him. "I've never given a sweetheart deal to a pedophile," he says in the ad.The case centres on former Waco attorney Adam Hoffman, who faced life without parole on felony charges of continuous sexual abuse of a young child. His trial ended in a mistrial in June 2025, and Paxton's office offered a plea deal and one day in jail. Prosecutors wrote to a state lawmaker that the deal was "a difficult decision" because the boy did not wish to testify again. Hoffman ultimately served 29 days."There is an infinite number of ways you can say and explain with evidence that this guy is a corrupt loser," a Democratic strategist close to the campaign said of Paxton. "But this one is so clear, and it gets people's attention, and it's just right in your face on tape, and it just happened."<h2>Why now</h2>The wave comes at a cultural moment of heightened attention on alleged paedophiles. The recent months saw huge discourse on the so-called Epstein files, with widespread anger over the botched release of the documents surrounding the case by Trump's administration. The heavily redacted files left much to be desired and were slammed for outing information, including compromising pictures of the victims.Additionally, online "pedophile hunter" shows have grown in popularity, building on the QAnon conspiracy theory that claimed Donald Trump was fighting a cabal of pedophile elites.An upcoming movie, "Primetime," starring Robert Pattinson as Chris Hansen, host of the defunct NBC show "To Catch a Predator," also contributed to the attention. It follows the 2025 documentary "Predators," which examined the legacy of that programme.One national GOP strategist told NBC that the tactic is less about ideology and more about dragging down an opponent's favourability to keep voters away from the polls. But the strategist also pointed to a wider societal focus, suggesting the ads may be "meeting an American cultural moment", adding, "In a way that's kind of grim."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-mamdani-factor-how-nyc-s-mayor-could-influence-the-november-2026-midterm-elections-1791622472019">US midterm elections: Why Zohran Mamdani's influence could become a headache for Democrats and Republicans</a><h2>Kansas, Ohio and Iowa</h2>Texas is one of at least six states where more than $10 million has been spent on such ads. Kansas, Ohio and Iowa have seen the most Epstein and paedophilia-related spots in their Senate races.In Kansas, both candidates accuse the other of being soft on child predators. Republicans are targeting Democrat Adam Hamilton, a pastor, over a child sex abuse scandal at his church camps, citing two instances of a volunteer attempting to assault campers. Hamilton denies any cover-up but says he would respond differently now. The Kansas City Star, which reviewed court records, reported that church officials found an internal investigation inconclusive, did not report the first allegation to police, and allowed the volunteer, Scott Preston Moore, to return to camp the next year. The church later reported Moore to police after a second allegation and barred him from working with children.Hamilton has fought back on air, accusing his opponent, Sen. Roger Marshall, of "lying" and saying his church "reported incidents involving a volunteer to law enforcement and then cut ties with him." His ad also notes that Hamilton "later helped get this predator convicted," pointing to Moore's 2013 conviction.Hamilton is also hitting Marshall for voting against the release of the Epstein files. Last September, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer offered an amendment to a defence bill ordering the files' release, and nearly every Republican voted to table it. Marshall called the vote a "political stunt."The Senate later passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent.Marshall adviser Alex Degrasse said the senator "has always supported the release," including the unanimous consent vote last November that Trump signed. That second vote came after Trump permitted Republicans to support release after months of resistance. Trump had a years-long friendship with Epstein but denies wrongdoing.<h2>The Ramaswamy-Acton ad controversy</h2>Also adding fuel to the fire is an ad by Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican nominee for governor, in Ohio. The controversial ad features the estranged mother of his Democratic opponent, Amy Acton, casting her daughter as a liar.The ad centres on paedophilia and dates back nearly 50 years, when Acton, then 12, accused her stepfather of sexual assault. Court records show the man was indicted on a rape charge. Acton said in 2019 she last saw her mother at a hearing during the 1978 case. Her brother, Phillip Stearns, released a statement pointing to the "sexual abuse Amy endured at 12 years old from our birth mother's husband," saying the siblings were removed from custody after the arrest.Several Republicans, including in Ohio, have criticised the ad or called for it to be pulled. Trump on Thursday encouraged Ramaswamy to lean into it, while Vice President JD Vance said Republicans needed to "stop whining" about it.In North Carolina, Cooper's campaign has gone after his opponent, former RNC chairman Michael Whatley, for appointing Harvey West, a convicted sex offender and long-time party fundraiser, to a state party committee. West claims he did not commit the crimes and pleaded guilty to avoid a stiffer sentence, The Associated Press reported. A Whatley spokesperson, DJ Griffin, instead said Cooper "failed at his most basic job to protect our kids and keep North Carolinians safe."The ads come as voters have recoiled at the Epstein files and rank corruption as a top issue. A June Quinnipiac survey found 38 per cent of voters said the Epstein investigation was important to their vote.

Jeffrey Epstein has been dead for years, but his name is back at the centre of America's political battle. With candidates increasingly accusing rivals of protecting child predators, the controversy over his files is shaping a fierce new wave of US midterm attack ads.

With just two weeks left for the US midterms 2026, the campaigning has taken a sharp turn, with candidates across the country accusing rivals of going easy on child predators. As per an NBC News report, more than 500 House, Senate and gubernatorial ads this cycle have focused on disgraced financier, convicted sex trafficker, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and have used the phrases "child predator," "predator" or “paedophile,” according to AdImpact, which tracks campaign advertising. That is roughly two per cent of all tracked ads. As per the reports, candidates across the board have ramped up the attacks sharply this month in nearly every competitive state. Democrats and allied groups back nearly three in four of these spots. Many tie directly to the release, or the refusal to release, of files connected to Jeffrey Epstein. Democrats have hit Republicans for voting against making more information public or for accepting donations from people whose names appeared in unredacted documents released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Note: A name in those files did not mean the person had committed a crime. Also read | US Midterms: Trump doubles down on $5,000 dividend as economists call it a 'half-baked political scheme'. Can a Republican win guarantee it? Texas leads the spending No state has put more money behind these ads than Texas, where upward of $38 million has been spent in the fiercely contested Senate race and more than $8 million in two House races. Democrat James Talarico, a state lawmaker, has hammered Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton over a plea deal his office offered a Waco man charged with sexually abusing a boy. In one campaign spot, Talarico walks through a warehouse as the words "NEVER GIVEN AN EPSTEIN-STYLE DEAL" flash behind him. "I've never given a sweetheart deal to a pedophile," he says in the ad. The case centres on former Waco attorney Adam Hoffman, who faced life without parole on felony charges of continuous sexual abuse of a young child. His trial ended in a mistrial in June 2025, and Paxton's office offered a plea deal and one day in jail. Prosecutors wrote to a state lawmaker that the deal was "a difficult decision" because the boy did not wish to testify again. Hoffman ultimately served 29 days. "There is an infinite number of ways you can say and explain with evidence that this guy is a corrupt loser," a Democratic strategist close to the campaign said of Paxton. "But this one is so clear, and it gets people's attention, and it's just right in your face on tape, and it just happened." Why now The wave comes at a cultural moment of heightened attention on alleged paedophiles. The recent months saw huge discourse on the so-called Epstein files, with widespread anger over the botched release of the documents surrounding the case by Trump's administration. The heavily redacted files left much to be desired and were slammed for outing information, including compromising pictures of the victims. Additionally, online "pedophile hunter" shows have grown in popularity, building on the QAnon conspiracy theory that claimed Donald Trump was fighting a cabal of pedophile elites. An upcoming movie, "Primetime," starring Robert Pattinson as Chris Hansen, host of the defunct NBC show "To Catch a Predator," also contributed to the attention. It follows the 2025 documentary "Predators," which examined the legacy of that programme. One national GOP strategist told NBC that the tactic is less about ideology and more about dragging down an opponent's favourability to keep voters away from the polls. But the strategist also pointed to a wider societal focus, suggesting the ads may be "meeting an American cultural moment", adding, "In a way that's kind of grim." Also read | US midterm elections: Why Zohran Mamdani's influence could become a headache for Democrats and Republicans Kansas, Ohio and Iowa Texas is one of at least six states where more than $10 million has been spent on such ads. Kansas, Ohio and Iowa have seen the most Epstein and paedophilia-related spots in their Senate races. In Kansas, both candidates accuse the other of being soft on child predators. Republicans are targeting Democrat Adam Hamilton, a pastor, over a child sex abuse scandal at his church camps, citing two instances of a volunteer attempting to assault campers. Hamilton denies any cover-up but says he would respond differently now. The Kansas City Star, which reviewed court records, reported that church officials found an internal investigation inconclusive, did not report the first allegation to police, and allowed the volunteer, Scott Preston Moore, to return to camp the next year. The church later reported Moore to police after a second allegation and barred him from working with children. Hamilton has fought back on air, accusing his opponent, Sen. Roger Marshall, of "lying" and saying his church "reported incidents involving a volunteer to law enforcement and then cut ties with him." His ad also notes that Hamilton "later helped get this predator convicted," pointing to Moore's 2013 conviction. Hamilton is also hitting Marshall for voting against the release of the Epstein files. Last September, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer offered an amendment to a defence bill ordering the files' release, and nearly every Republican voted to table it. Marshall called the vote a "political stunt." The Senate later passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent. Marshall adviser Alex Degrasse said the senator "has always supported the release," including the unanimous consent vote last November that Trump signed. That second vote came after Trump permitted Republicans to support release after months of resistance. Trump had a years-long friendship with Epstein but denies wrongdoing. The Ramaswamy-Acton ad controversy Also adding fuel to the fire is an ad by Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican nominee for governor, in Ohio. The controversial ad features the estranged mother of his Democratic opponent, Amy Acton, casting her daughter as a liar. The ad centres on paedophilia and dates back nearly 50 years, when Acton, then 12, accused her stepfather of sexual assault. Court records show the man was indicted on a rape charge. Acton said in 2019 she last saw her mother at a hearing during the 1978 case. Her brother, Phillip Stearns, released a statement pointing to the "sexual abuse Amy endured at 12 years old from our birth mother's husband," saying the siblings were removed from custody after the arrest. Several Republicans, including in Ohio, have criticised the ad or called for it to be pulled. Trump on Thursday encouraged Ramaswamy to lean into it, while Vice President JD Vance said Republicans needed to "stop whining" about it. In North Carolina, Cooper's campaign has gone after his opponent, former RNC chairman Michael Whatley, for appointing Harvey West, a convicted sex offender and long-time party fundraiser, to a state party committee. West claims he did not commit the crimes and pleaded guilty to avoid a stiffer sentence, The Associated Press reported. A Whatley spokesperson, DJ Griffin, instead said Cooper "failed at his most basic job to protect our kids and keep North Carolinians safe." The ads come as voters have recoiled at the Epstein files and rank corruption as a top issue. A June Quinnipiac survey found 38 per cent of voters said the Epstein investigation was important to their vote.

Jeffrey Epstein has been dead for years, but his name is back at the centre of America's political battle. With candidates increasingly accusing rivals of protecting child predators, the controversy over his files is shaping a fierce new wave of US midterm attack ads.

US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Oct 23) said American warships returning from the Middle East could make a stopover in Cuba once they return from the Iran war. Speaking at an election campaign event for the midterms in Florida, Trump ominously said, "We'll take care of Cuba on our way back from Iran. Those beautiful ships, they'll pass Cuba. We'll have one of them stop about 50 yards off the coast. They'll raise up their hands, and then we're gonna send Marco Rubio in."This comes as United States Secretary of State Rubio called on Cuban people to "discreetly" become Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) informants.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-a-question-of-time-trump-vows-to-turn-us-focus-to-cuba-once-iran-conflict-is-finished-israel-tehran-carribean-island-1772759431337">'It's a question of time': Trump vows to turn US focus to THIS neighbour once Iran war is 'finished'</a><h2>Cuba rejects 'all threats'</h2>Cuba's Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez rejected the remarks, dismissing "all threats regarding U.S. ambitions toward Cuba."In a post on X, Rodríguez wrote, "We reject every threat related to US ambitions toward Cuba. Our coastline is full of beautiful beaches, but there are also razor-sharp limestone spikes, an inhospitable environment for those who make it to our shores with hostile purposes and lust for domination."<h2>Rubio urges Cubans to work with the CIA</h2>Earlier in the day, Rubio called on the people of Cuba to form a discreet partnership with the CIA, saying the move would bring a "positive change" in their country.In a post on X, Rubio wrote, "To those who seek to create positive change in Cuba - now is the time. The disappointment of failed promises, corruption, and the privileged lives of only a few; seize this opportunity to create the change you desire through a discreet partnership with the CIA."Earlier in the day, a White House statement said, "The policies, practices, and actions of the Government of Cuba continue to constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to the US. These policies, practices, and actions are also repugnant to the moral and political values of free and democratic societies."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-charges-two-former-fbi-officials-with-lying-to-congress-about-hunter-biden-probes-politically-motivated-trump-grievance-or-something-else-1792807281508">US charges two former FBI officials with lying to Congress about Hunter Biden probes. 'Politically motivated' Trump grievance or something else?</a><h2>Trump's Cuba plans: A widening economic squeeze</h2>The Trump administration has been intensifying economic pressure on Cuba, subjecting nine state-owned firms in the construction, mining and metals sectors to new penalties while tightening enforcement of US regulations that restrict American citizens travelling to the island from doing business with state-controlled enterprises.Trump has repeatedly hinted at a change in leadership in Cuba. On May 2 this year, he said the US would "take over" Cuba immediately. Speaking at The Forum Club of the Palm Beaches Dinner, Trump said Cuba "has got problems. Cuba, which we will be taking over almost immediately. Cuba's got problems. We'll finish one first."

Trump says US warships returning from Iran could stop off Cuba's coast, while Rubio urges Cubans to partner with the CIA. Havana rejects "all threats." Here is the full picture.


US President Donald Trump on Friday (Oct 23) said American warships returning from the Middle East could make a stopover in Cuba once they return from the Iran war. Speaking at an election campaign event for the midterms in Florida, Trump ominously said, "We'll take care of Cuba on our way back from Iran. Those beautiful ships, they'll pass Cuba. We'll have one of them stop about 50 yards off the coast. They'll raise up their hands, and then we're gonna send Marco Rubio in." This comes as United States Secretary of State Rubio called on Cuban people to "discreetly" become Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) informants. Also read | 'It's a question of time': Trump vows to turn US focus to THIS neighbour once Iran war is 'finished' Cuba rejects 'all threats' Cuba's Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez rejected the remarks, dismissing "all threats regarding U.S. ambitions toward Cuba." In a post on X, Rodríguez wrote, "We reject every threat related to US ambitions toward Cuba. Our coastline is full of beautiful beaches, but there are also razor-sharp limestone spikes, an inhospitable environment for those who make it to our shores with hostile purposes and lust for domination." Rubio urges Cubans to work with the CIA Earlier in the day, Rubio called on the people of Cuba to form a discreet partnership with the CIA, saying the move would bring a "positive change" in their country. In a post on X, Rubio wrote, "To those who seek to create positive change in Cuba - now is the time. The disappointment of failed promises, corruption, and the privileged lives of only a few; seize this opportunity to create the change you desire through a discreet partnership with the CIA." Earlier in the day, a White House statement said, "The policies, practices, and actions of the Government of Cuba continue to constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to the US. These policies, practices, and actions are also repugnant to the moral and political values of free and democratic societies." Also read | US charges two former FBI officials with lying to Congress about Hunter Biden probes. 'Politically motivated' Trump grievance or something else? Trump's Cuba plans: A widening economic squeeze The Trump administration has been intensifying economic pressure on Cuba, subjecting nine state-owned firms in the construction, mining and metals sectors to new penalties while tightening enforcement of US regulations that restrict American citizens travelling to the island from doing business with state-controlled enterprises. Trump has repeatedly hinted at a change in leadership in Cuba. On May 2 this year, he said the US would "take over" Cuba immediately. Speaking at The Forum Club of the Palm Beaches Dinner, Trump said Cuba "has got problems. Cuba, which we will be taking over almost immediately. Cuba's got problems. We'll finish one first."

Trump says US warships returning from Iran could stop off Cuba's coast, while Rubio urges Cubans to partner with the CIA. Havana rejects "all threats." Here is the full picture.

Trump threatens Cuba with US warships 'stopover' as Rubio calls on Cubans to become CIA informants: US ready to 'take over' Havana?

The US Justice Department has charged two former senior FBI officials with lying to Congress about their knowledge of investigations into Hunter Biden, according to court documents made public on Friday (Oct 23).Nikki Floris, 46, and Bradley Benavides, 56, who each held senior counterintelligence roles at the FBI, were charged in federal court in Washington. They allegedly misled a House panel about the role of an FBI foreign influence task force in investigations into Hunter Biden, according to a criminal complaint.Floris and Benavides served in leading roles on the FBI foreign influence task force, a group aimed at combating attempts to influence US elections that was disbanded during the second Trump administration after facing criticism from Republicans. The officials briefed two Republican senators in 2020, warning them of US intelligence concerns that some allegations against Hunter Biden were part of a Russian influence operation, according to prior media reports.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/whose-cocaine-was-it-hunter-biden-sarcastic-response-to-white-house-narcotics-accusation-goes-viral-i-d-never-forget-my-drugs-joe-biden-west-wing-1780562403574">Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs'</a><h2>'Politically motivated' or 'a disgrace'?</h2>Lawyers for Floris condemned the case as the latest in a string of politically motivated prosecutions by the DOJ under the Trump administration."The government's reasons for charging Nikki are as transparent as they are unjust: to push a false narrative for a shot at political points," Floris' lawyers said in a statement. A lawyer for Benavides called the charges a "disgrace" and said Benavides is a "true patriot who devoted his career to protecting this country and its people."Floris and Benavides made an initial court appearance on Friday. A federal grand jury in Washington will have to approve an indictment for the case to move forward."Lying to Congress by anyone strikes at the heart of our democratic system, but when senior FBI agents lie to Congress believing they are above the law, it's time to bring the hammer of justice down on them," US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro wrote in a social media post.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doj-opens-criminal-probe-into-trump-ally-corey-lewandowski-as-potus-warns-dishonest-staff-have-to-be-prosecuted-1792727902674">DOJ opens criminal probe into Trump ally Corey Lewandowski as POTUS warns dishonest staff 'have to be prosecuted'</a><h2>A Trump grievance</h2>The case centres on an issue that has long been a focus of Trump and his allies: the FBI's handling of a laptop purportedly belonging to Hunter Biden that surfaced in the weeks before the 2020 election, which Trump lost to Joe Biden.The complaint alleges that Floris and Benavides lied to the House Judiciary Committee in 2023 testimony, where they each claimed little knowledge of the Hunter Biden investigation and the laptop episode. It alleges they were in contact with members of the Hunter Biden investigative team in 2020 and took part in the FBI's response to public reporting on the laptop. Benavides told the House panel he learned about the probes through searching on Wikipedia, according to the complaint.Hunter Biden was later charged with federal gun and tax-related crimes during his father's administration. Joe Biden pardoned his son shortly before leaving office.The case against Floris and Benavides does not allege the FBI suppressed the laptop story, a claim Trump and his allies have long made.Notably, the DOJ under Trump has also investigated the US intelligence community's finding that Russia sought to aid Trump's 2016 campaign and the FBI raid of Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in 2022, a probe mired in staff turmoil. The DOJ had previously also brought charges against former FBI Director James Comey for allegedly lying to Congress about media leaks, a case later dismissed.

Two former senior FBI officials face charges for allegedly lying to Congress about Hunter Biden investigations. Their lawyers call the case politically motivated. What's happening in Washington? All you need to know,

The US Justice Department has charged two former senior FBI officials with lying to Congress about their knowledge of investigations into Hunter Biden, according to court documents made public on Friday (Oct 23). Nikki Floris, 46, and Bradley Benavides, 56, who each held senior counterintelligence roles at the FBI, were charged in federal court in Washington. They allegedly misled a House panel about the role of an FBI foreign influence task force in investigations into Hunter Biden, according to a criminal complaint. Floris and Benavides served in leading roles on the FBI foreign influence task force, a group aimed at combating attempts to influence US elections that was disbanded during the second Trump administration after facing criticism from Republicans. The officials briefed two Republican senators in 2020, warning them of US intelligence concerns that some allegations against Hunter Biden were part of a Russian influence operation, according to prior media reports. Also read | Whose cocaine was it? Hunter Biden sarcastic response to White House narcotics accusation goes viral: 'I'd never forget my drugs' 'Politically motivated' or 'a disgrace'? Lawyers for Floris condemned the case as the latest in a string of politically motivated prosecutions by the DOJ under the Trump administration. "The government's reasons for charging Nikki are as transparent as they are unjust: to push a false narrative for a shot at political points," Floris' lawyers said in a statement. A lawyer for Benavides called the charges a "disgrace" and said Benavides is a "true patriot who devoted his career to protecting this country and its people." Floris and Benavides made an initial court appearance on Friday. A federal grand jury in Washington will have to approve an indictment for the case to move forward. "Lying to Congress by anyone strikes at the heart of our democratic system, but when senior FBI agents lie to Congress believing they are above the law, it's time to bring the hammer of justice down on them," US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro wrote in a social media post. Also read | DOJ opens criminal probe into Trump ally Corey Lewandowski as POTUS warns dishonest staff 'have to be prosecuted' A Trump grievance The case centres on an issue that has long been a focus of Trump and his allies: the FBI's handling of a laptop purportedly belonging to Hunter Biden that surfaced in the weeks before the 2020 election, which Trump lost to Joe Biden. The complaint alleges that Floris and Benavides lied to the House Judiciary Committee in 2023 testimony, where they each claimed little knowledge of the Hunter Biden investigation and the laptop episode. It alleges they were in contact with members of the Hunter Biden investigative team in 2020 and took part in the FBI's response to public reporting on the laptop. Benavides told the House panel he learned about the probes through searching on Wikipedia, according to the complaint. Hunter Biden was later charged with federal gun and tax-related crimes during his father's administration. Joe Biden pardoned his son shortly before leaving office. The case against Floris and Benavides does not allege the FBI suppressed the laptop story, a claim Trump and his allies have long made. Notably, the DOJ under Trump has also investigated the US intelligence community's finding that Russia sought to aid Trump's 2016 campaign and the FBI raid of Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in 2022, a probe mired in staff turmoil. The DOJ had previously also brought charges against former FBI Director James Comey for allegedly lying to Congress about media leaks, a case later dismissed.

Two former senior FBI officials face charges for allegedly lying to Congress about Hunter Biden investigations. Their lawyers call the case politically motivated. What's happening in Washington? All you need to know,

US charges two former FBI officials with lying to Congress about Hunter Biden probes. 'Politically motivated' Trump grievance or something else?

US President Donald Trump said on Friday, October 23, that he has not spoken to the SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, but he would if there were still problems related to Ukraine's military-grade version of the Starlink service."If there is a problem, I will get it straightened out," Trump told reporters in White House before leaving for a rally in Florida."I have not spoken to him. I might have to, but I have not. I've heard it was fixed, but if it's not, I'll speak to him." Trump added that he had heard the issue was resolved. He also rejected that the tech mogul had too much control over a system that is vital for Ukraine's fight against Russia's invasion, now in its fifth year."I don't think he does," Trump said. "Elon will never do anything wrong. I know him very well; he is a fair person." The pair have shared a complicated relationship, including a public fallout after Musk exited the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in 2025. The two then maintained a cordial relationship when they appeared in Trump's caravan several times, including in Beijing and in White House while meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-unprecedented-west-bank-offensive-hebron-demolitions-1792773228295">Netanyahu warns of unprecedented offensive unseen since 1967 in occupied West Bank</a>Trump's statement comes in direct contradiction to the Wall Street Journal report, which claimed that he had spoken to the SpaceX CEO. According to the report, which cites anonymous US officials, Trump called Musk and expressed frustration over the network being capped. According to those sources, Trump asked Musk to lift a 100 mph speed limit that was causing Ukrainian defence and offensive drones to lose connectivity behind Russian lines. Musk previously said he was not behind the slowdown, which affected Ukraine's ability to use attack drones and coordinate defensive operations.According to a BBC report which cites Ukrainian defence officials, &nbsp;there was "currently no confirmation that these restrictions have been lifted".&nbsp;

Donald Trump says he may contact Elon Musk over reported Starlink restrictions affecting Ukraine's military operations, while Kyiv has yet to confirm the limits were lifted.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday, October 23, that he has not spoken to the SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, but he would if there were still problems related to Ukraine's military-grade version of the Starlink service. "If there is a problem, I will get it straightened out," Trump told reporters in White House before leaving for a rally in Florida."I have not spoken to him. I might have to, but I have not. I've heard it was fixed, but if it's not, I'll speak to him." Trump added that he had heard the issue was resolved. He also rejected that the tech mogul had too much control over a system that is vital for Ukraine's fight against Russia's invasion, now in its fifth year. "I don't think he does," Trump said. "Elon will never do anything wrong. I know him very well; he is a fair person." The pair have shared a complicated relationship, including a public fallout after Musk exited the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in 2025. The two then maintained a cordial relationship when they appeared in Trump's caravan several times, including in Beijing and in White House while meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping. Also Read: Netanyahu warns of unprecedented offensive unseen since 1967 in occupied West Bank Trump's statement comes in direct contradiction to the Wall Street Journal report, which claimed that he had spoken to the SpaceX CEO. According to the report, which cites anonymous US officials, Trump called Musk and expressed frustration over the network being capped. According to those sources, Trump asked Musk to lift a 100 mph speed limit that was causing Ukrainian defence and offensive drones to lose connectivity behind Russian lines. Musk previously said he was not behind the slowdown, which affected Ukraine's ability to use attack drones and coordinate defensive operations. According to a BBC report which cites Ukrainian defence officials, there was "currently no confirmation that these restrictions have been lifted".

Donald Trump says he may contact Elon Musk over reported Starlink restrictions affecting Ukraine's military operations, while Kyiv has yet to confirm the limits were lifted.

Trump says he may contact Musk over Starlink restrictions affecting Ukraine

The United States could strike Iran as soon as this weekend, US envoy Tom Barrack said on Friday, amid escalating threats from Washington and Israel. "Could there be a strike this weekend? Absolutely," Tom Barrack, the US ambassador to Turkey and point man on Syria who does not have a direct role on Iran, told podcast host Mario Nawfal.&nbsp;President Donald Trump is very clear. He's open and available and accessible to a deal and we've been at the table for months and months and months, Barrack said in an interview during his visit to the Gulf. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly vowed in recent days to topple Iran's clerical leadership. His remarks come after two major bombing campaigns against the country since last year, as he faces elections on Tuesday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/race-to-power/the-verdict-france-s-protest-crackdown-when-protecting-democracy-risks-restricting-it-1792771638035">The Verdict | France's protest crackdown: When protecting democracy risks restricting it</a>&nbsp;Trump has also hinted that he is open to resuming strikes following a prolonged diplomatic deadlock. However, he previously said that such action would not take place before the US congressional elections on November 3. Barrack's remarks contradicted Netanyahu's position, with the US envoy saying that Washington was not seeking to overthrow the Islamic republic. Iran has been a sworn enemy of the United States and Israel since the 1979 revolution that toppled the pro-Western shah.&nbsp;"If you keep threatening the world, our allies, the Gulf, there will be a consequence. The consequence won't be regime change," Barrack said. "The United States, the president of the United States, has said he's not interested in regime change," he added. "The problem with regime change always is, what's the day-two scenario?" Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

US envoy Tom Barrack warns a strike on Iran could happen this weekend as Trump remains open to a deal and rules out regime change

The United States could strike Iran as soon as this weekend, US envoy Tom Barrack said on Friday, amid escalating threats from Washington and Israel. "Could there be a strike this weekend? Absolutely," Tom Barrack, the US ambassador to Turkey and point man on Syria who does not have a direct role on Iran, told podcast host Mario Nawfal. President Donald Trump is very clear. He's open and available and accessible to a deal and we've been at the table for months and months and months, Barrack said in an interview during his visit to the Gulf. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly vowed in recent days to topple Iran's clerical leadership. His remarks come after two major bombing campaigns against the country since last year, as he faces elections on Tuesday. Also Read: The Verdict | France's protest crackdown: When protecting democracy risks restricting it Trump has also hinted that he is open to resuming strikes following a prolonged diplomatic deadlock. However, he previously said that such action would not take place before the US congressional elections on November 3. Barrack's remarks contradicted Netanyahu's position, with the US envoy saying that Washington was not seeking to overthrow the Islamic republic. Iran has been a sworn enemy of the United States and Israel since the 1979 revolution that toppled the pro-Western shah. "If you keep threatening the world, our allies, the Gulf, there will be a consequence. The consequence won't be regime change," Barrack said. "The United States, the president of the United States, has said he's not interested in regime change," he added. "The problem with regime change always is, what's the day-two scenario?" Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

US envoy Tom Barrack says a strike on Iran could happen this weekend, while stressing that President Trump remains open to a diplomatic deal

Will the US attack Iran this weekend? Trump's envoy says, 'absolutely'

Brent Crude futures, the benchmark oil index, climbed to $116.20 per barrel on Friday, October 23, its highest level in five months, in May 4. At the same time, US West Texas Intermediate futures traded about 3% higher at $102.56 a barrel. This comes after Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia, and investors are spooked by concerns over the US resuming strikes on Iran and further disruption to energy supplies.US President Donald Trump, before leaving for a rally in Florida, said that we could take all of Iran's oil if we wanted to. "Iran is not able to do much now. And we could, if we wanted to, just take all of the oil," Mr Trump said. "We could take the whole country.""And as you know, the Hormuz Strait is ours, and that's the way we'll keep it," the president added.Meanwhile, Iran's army chief said the country’s military is fully prepared for “asymmetric warfare” while it is actively engaged in the production, distribution, and maintenance of such weapons, while providing personnel with the necessary training to operate them.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-border-tensions-mea-congress-modi-1792764991109">China border situation gets ‘disturbed’ over changing patrolling patterns: MEA</a><h2>UAE reports oil spill in its coast</h2>Earlier on Friday, the UAE reported an oil spill from a tanker off the coast of Umm Al Quwain; it did not specify the reason for the spill. The report comes a day after Iran claimed to have struck four commercial vessels in Persian Gulf waters and said three others had hit sea mines in the region.The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said in a statement, "teams immediately began containment, cordoning, clean-up and remediation ... to limit environmental impacts," adding that Umm Al Quwain beaches had been closed."The slick is considerably larger, covering approximately 160 square km (60 square miles), and looks to be coming from the ship," Leon Moreland, a researcher at ⁠the Conflict and Environment Observatory, said.&nbsp;The authorities have not disclosed the identity of the tanker, while Martin Kelly, CEO of Orbital Risk Intelligence, told Reuters the oil slick was coming from a vessel called the Gem No 2.

Brent crude hits $116.20 a barrel, its highest level in five months, as fears of renewed US strikes on Iran and Gulf oil supply disruptions rattle markets.

Brent Crude futures, the benchmark oil index, climbed to $116.20 per barrel on Friday, October 23, its highest level in five months, in May 4. At the same time, US West Texas Intermediate futures traded about 3% higher at $102.56 a barrel. This comes after Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia, and investors are spooked by concerns over the US resuming strikes on Iran and further disruption to energy supplies. US President Donald Trump, before leaving for a rally in Florida, said that we could take all of Iran's oil if we wanted to. "Iran is not able to do much now. And we could, if we wanted to, just take all of the oil," Mr Trump said. "We could take the whole country." "And as you know, the Hormuz Strait is ours, and that's the way we'll keep it," the president added. Meanwhile, Iran's army chief said the country’s military is fully prepared for “asymmetric warfare” while it is actively engaged in the production, distribution, and maintenance of such weapons, while providing personnel with the necessary training to operate them. Also Read: China border situation gets ‘disturbed’ over changing patrolling patterns: MEA UAE reports oil spill in its coast Earlier on Friday, the UAE reported an oil spill from a tanker off the coast of Umm Al Quwain; it did not specify the reason for the spill. The report comes a day after Iran claimed to have struck four commercial vessels in Persian Gulf waters and said three others had hit sea mines in the region. The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said in a statement, "teams immediately began containment, cordoning, clean-up and remediation ... to limit environmental impacts," adding that Umm Al Quwain beaches had been closed. "The slick is considerably larger, covering approximately 160 square km (60 square miles), and looks to be coming from the ship," Leon Moreland, a researcher at ⁠the Conflict and Environment Observatory, said. The authorities have not disclosed the identity of the tanker, while Martin Kelly, CEO of Orbital Risk Intelligence, told Reuters the oil slick was coming from a vessel called the Gem No 2.

Brent crude hits $116.20 a barrel, its highest level in five months, as fears of renewed US strikes on Iran and Gulf oil supply disruptions rattle markets.

Brent crude hits $116 as UAE reports oil spill and Trump threatens to seize Iran's oil

The Justice Department has launched an investigation into long-time Trump advisor Corey Lewandowski, according to reports. This comes after a criminal referral from the Department of Homeland Security's inspector general.When asked about the inquiry outside the White House, President Donald Trump said he wants his staff held accountable and that he had "heard something about it.""All I know is I want my people to be honest," Trump said. "If they're not going to be honest, they have to be prosecuted... They are stealing from me. So, I want my people to be honest. And if they're not honest, I'll have my DOJ go and do whatever they have to do."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-trump-demands-ilhan-omar-removal-from-congress-for-using-fake-name-to-be-sworn-in-so-what-is-her-real-name-1792721069682">WATCH: Trump demands Ilhan Omar removal from Congress for 'using fake name to be sworn in'. So what is her real name?</a><h2>Lewandowski denies wrongdoing</h2>Adam Trigg, an attorney for Lewandowski, said his client has not been contacted by the Justice Department and denies any wrongdoing. "Mr. Lewandowski has not been contacted by the Justice Department regarding any investigation, and he denies any wrongdoing when he was proudly serving his country in a voluntary capacity," Trigg said in a statement posted on Lewandowski's X account.Lewandowski, who served as Trump's first campaign manager in 2016 before being fired that June, later served as a senior advisor on the 2020 and 2024 campaigns. He also served as an advisor to former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.After The Wall Street Journal reported that the Justice Department was reviewing allegations of corruption and personal financial gain involving Lewandowski, he called the report "another example of the kind of anonymous-source, politically driven reporting that Americans have seen time and again," adding he was confident "the facts and not anonymous accusations will ultimately speak for themselves."<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261023/image-1792737111693.png"></figure>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-justice-department-quietly-drops-legal-fight-to-overhaul-student-loan-forgiveness-program-1792649896547">Trump's Justice Department quietly drops legal fight to overhaul student loan forgiveness program</a><h2>Noem in the crosshairs</h2>The investigation overlaps with scrutiny of Noem on three fronts. As DHS Secretary, she required her personal written approval for all contracts and grants exceeding $100,000, and records show Lewandowski signed off on high-value spending decisions alongside her, despite serving as an unpaid, part-time "Special Government Employee."Investigators are dissecting contracts approved during her tenure, including a $220 million no-bid advertising campaign prominently featuring Noem, a $200 million contract for two private jets, and a $30 million non-competitive Palantir Technologies contract Lewandowski reportedly lobbied her to approve.Noem also faces potential perjury allegations. During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, she testified under oath that Lewandowski had no role in approving contracts, but internal DHS records show his signature on spending documents, prompting Democratic lawmakers to push for an investigation.Senator Richard Blumenthal's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations is running a separate inquiry, and the DHS inspector general has reported that leadership during Noem's tenure obstructed its initial investigation. Noem has admitted approving the ad contracts but maintains Trump was fully aware, a claim Trump has publicly denied.

US President Donald Trump says dishonest staff "have to be prosecuted" as the DOJ, according to reports, starts investigating his long-time ally, Corey Lewandowski. The probe is dragging Kristi Noem into the crosshairs. Here's all you need to know.

The Justice Department has launched an investigation into long-time Trump advisor Corey Lewandowski, according to reports. This comes after a criminal referral from the Department of Homeland Security's inspector general. When asked about the inquiry outside the White House, President Donald Trump said he wants his staff held accountable and that he had "heard something about it." "All I know is I want my people to be honest," Trump said. "If they're not going to be honest, they have to be prosecuted... They are stealing from me. So, I want my people to be honest. And if they're not honest, I'll have my DOJ go and do whatever they have to do." Also read | WATCH: Trump demands Ilhan Omar removal from Congress for 'using fake name to be sworn in'. So what is her real name? Lewandowski denies wrongdoing Adam Trigg, an attorney for Lewandowski, said his client has not been contacted by the Justice Department and denies any wrongdoing. "Mr. Lewandowski has not been contacted by the Justice Department regarding any investigation, and he denies any wrongdoing when he was proudly serving his country in a voluntary capacity," Trigg said in a statement posted on Lewandowski's X account. Lewandowski, who served as Trump's first campaign manager in 2016 before being fired that June, later served as a senior advisor on the 2020 and 2024 campaigns. He also served as an advisor to former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. After The Wall Street Journal reported that the Justice Department was reviewing allegations of corruption and personal financial gain involving Lewandowski, he called the report "another example of the kind of anonymous-source, politically driven reporting that Americans have seen time and again," adding he was confident "the facts and not anonymous accusations will ultimately speak for themselves." Also read | Trump's Justice Department quietly drops legal fight to overhaul student loan forgiveness program Noem in the crosshairs The investigation overlaps with scrutiny of Noem on three fronts. As DHS Secretary, she required her personal written approval for all contracts and grants exceeding $100,000, and records show Lewandowski signed off on high-value spending decisions alongside her, despite serving as an unpaid, part-time "Special Government Employee." Investigators are dissecting contracts approved during her tenure, including a $220 million no-bid advertising campaign prominently featuring Noem, a $200 million contract for two private jets, and a $30 million non-competitive Palantir Technologies contract Lewandowski reportedly lobbied her to approve. Noem also faces potential perjury allegations. During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, she testified under oath that Lewandowski had no role in approving contracts, but internal DHS records show his signature on spending documents, prompting Democratic lawmakers to push for an investigation. Senator Richard Blumenthal's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations is running a separate inquiry, and the DHS inspector general has reported that leadership during Noem's tenure obstructed its initial investigation. Noem has admitted approving the ad contracts but maintains Trump was fully aware, a claim Trump has publicly denied.

US President Donald Trump says dishonest staff "have to be prosecuted" as the DOJ, according to reports, starts investigating his long-time ally, Corey Lewandowski. The probe is dragging Kristi Noem into the crosshairs. Here's all you need to know.

DOJ opens criminal probe into Trump ally Corey Lewandowski as POTUS warns dishonest staff 'have to be prosecuted'

US President Donald Trump says SpaceX’s Starshield satellite communications system is back in Ukraine, but questions remain over Kyiv’s confidence in the service. The development comes amid growing scrutiny of Ukraine’s reliance on satellite connectivity for military communications and battlefield operations.


Trump says Starshield is back in Ukraine; Kyiv not convinced

US President Donald Trump lashed out at NBA superstar LeBron James in a social media post on Thursday (Oct 22) for disrespecting the national anthem. Trump also shared a video of the incident, which happened on Tuesday (Oct 20), wherein LeBron could be seen working on his golf swing and other warmup activities while the national anthem played in the background. It happened when LeBron was lined up with his Philadelphia 76ers teammates during Tuesday's game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden in New York.<h2>Trump hits out at LeBron for disrespectful national anthem display</h2>"I said right from the beginning that he's no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE," Trump's post read, adding, "LeBron James should apologize to all of those great American warriors and heroes who died for the American flag, and all that our country stands for!" <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/117485480701878421">Trump wrote on Truth Social</a> along with a video of the incident.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-police-arrest-former-national-100m-champ-jake-doran-for-alleged-child-abuse-1792644950804">Australia police arrest former national 100m champ for alleged child abuse</a>76ers coach Nick Nurse, before the home opener for the 76ers on Thursday, addressed it and said: "I think that goes right in with other outside noise we've already had. I keep saying the same thing. All I really care about is getting to the practice floor, getting them in the film room, getting them to the game floor. The focus that they've had and the intent and all the stuff like that has been outstanding."<h2>LeBron makes 76ers look good</h2>The Sixers won the game against the Knicks 106-100, with LeBron playing 34 minutes and scoring 14 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. In the home opener against the Cavaliers, LeBron played 33 minutes and scored 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists as the 76ers won 114-106.The superstar is in his 24th season in the NBA and holds the record for the most points in regular-season history.

President Donald Trump criticized NBA star LeBron James on Truth Social as a "total disgrace" after a video surfaced showing James practicing golf swings while the national anthem played.

US President Donald Trump lashed out at NBA superstar LeBron James in a social media post on Thursday (Oct 22) for disrespecting the national anthem. Trump also shared a video of the incident, which happened on Tuesday (Oct 20), wherein LeBron could be seen working on his golf swing and other warmup activities while the national anthem played in the background. It happened when LeBron was lined up with his Philadelphia 76ers teammates during Tuesday's game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump hits out at LeBron for disrespectful national anthem display "I said right from the beginning that he's no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE," Trump's post read, adding, "LeBron James should apologize to all of those great American warriors and heroes who died for the American flag, and all that our country stands for!" Trump wrote on Truth Social along with a video of the incident. Also Read - Australia police arrest former national 100m champ for alleged child abuse 76ers coach Nick Nurse, before the home opener for the 76ers on Thursday, addressed it and said: "I think that goes right in with other outside noise we've already had. I keep saying the same thing. All I really care about is getting to the practice floor, getting them in the film room, getting them to the game floor. The focus that they've had and the intent and all the stuff like that has been outstanding." LeBron makes 76ers look good The Sixers won the game against the Knicks 106-100, with LeBron playing 34 minutes and scoring 14 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. In the home opener against the Cavaliers, LeBron played 33 minutes and scored 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists as the 76ers won 114-106. The superstar is in his 24th season in the NBA and holds the record for the most points in regular-season history.

President Donald Trump criticized NBA star LeBron James on Truth Social as a "total disgrace" after a video surfaced showing James practicing golf swings while the national anthem played.

US President Donald Trump calls NBA superstar LeBron James 'total disgrace' for disrespecting national anthem

US President Donald Trump on Thursday voiced support for Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican candidate for Ohio governor, defending a controversial attack advertisement featuring the estranged mother of his Democratic rival, Amy Acton. The advertisement has drawn widespread criticism because it features Acton’s mother, whose husband was charged with sexually abusing Acton when she was a child. Ramaswamy has faced mounting backlash over the campaign ad and its portrayal of the family’s troubled history.&nbsp;However, Trump defended the advertisement on his Truth Social platform, describing it as ‘very powerful’ and accusing the media of launching a ‘well coordinated attack’ to pressure Ramaswamy into withdrawing it. "Vivek should keep it up, and let everyone listen to the mother of a defective, dishonest, and incapable Candidate, explain how the daughter is a DISASTER who, uncontrollably, lies, cheats, and steals!" Trump wrote. "I only wish the mothers of my opponents would be so brave as to come forward and explain that their son or daughter is a liar, and much worse."&nbsp;Trump, 80, added, “If my mother, the legendary Mary MacLeod Trump, said anything bad about me, the Fake News would play it up.” The controversy comes as political rhetoric intensifies ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections, when voters will decide races for governorships, Senate seats and every seat in the House of Representatives, along with other congressional contests.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-despicable-amy-acton-hits-back-at-vivek-ramaswamy-over-ohio-campaign-ad-featuring-her-estranged-mother-1792695100839">'This is despicable': Amy Acton hits back at Vivek Ramaswamy over Ohio campaign ad featuring her estranged mother</a>&nbsp;Ramaswamy, a billionaire biotech entrepreneur who challenged Trump in the 2024 Republican presidential primaries, is competing against Acton to become Ohio’s next governor. Acton is a physician by training and previously served as director of the state health department. In the campaign advertisement, Acton’s mother, Arthur, claims that her daughter has 'lied her entire life'.&nbsp;Arthur’s husband fled before he could stand trial on the sexual assault charges and has since died. Acton has said she had not seen her mother since 1978. On Tuesday, Acton released a statement saying that she and her brother endured abuse, hunger, and neglect during their childhood.&nbsp;The advertisement has drawn criticism from Democrats and some Republicans. However, US Vice President JD Vance defended Ramaswamy, describing him as his ‘good friend’ while campaigning in Ohio, his home state. Earlier this month, Vance also highlighted other attack advertisements targeting Acton that accused her of having problems with alcohol.

Donald Trump defends Vivek Ramaswamy's controversial Ohio governor campaign ad targeting Democratic rival Amy Acton amid criticism from both parties

US President Donald Trump on Thursday voiced support for Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican candidate for Ohio governor, defending a controversial attack advertisement featuring the estranged mother of his Democratic rival, Amy Acton. The advertisement has drawn widespread criticism because it features Acton’s mother, whose husband was charged with sexually abusing Acton when she was a child. Ramaswamy has faced mounting backlash over the campaign ad and its portrayal of the family’s troubled history. However, Trump defended the advertisement on his Truth Social platform, describing it as ‘very powerful’ and accusing the media of launching a ‘well coordinated attack’ to pressure Ramaswamy into withdrawing it. "Vivek should keep it up, and let everyone listen to the mother of a defective, dishonest, and incapable Candidate, explain how the daughter is a DISASTER who, uncontrollably, lies, cheats, and steals!" Trump wrote. "I only wish the mothers of my opponents would be so brave as to come forward and explain that their son or daughter is a liar, and much worse." Trump, 80, added, “If my mother, the legendary Mary MacLeod Trump, said anything bad about me, the Fake News would play it up.” The controversy comes as political rhetoric intensifies ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections, when voters will decide races for governorships, Senate seats and every seat in the House of Representatives, along with other congressional contests.

Trump backs Vivek Ramaswamy over a controversial Ohio campaign ad featuring rival Amy Acton's estranged mother, drawing criticism from both parties

'Vivek should keep it up': Trump defends Ramaswamy's controversial campaign ad targeting Amy Acton

A US judge has ordered President Donald Trump to answer questions under oath by December 11 in his defamation lawsuit against the BBC over the editing of a speech he delivered before the 2021 US Capitol riot. Charles Tobin, a lawyer representing the BBC, told the court that we still haven't been able to depose the plaintiff, with two months remaining in the discovery period. Trump cancelled a previously scheduled deposition on October 16, citing matters of national importance while campaigning in Georgia.&nbsp;Under US law, a deposition is an out-of-court statement made under oath in response to questions. The proceedings are recorded and can be used in subsequent legal proceedings. US Magistrate Judge Enjolique Lett ruled that Trump must appear for the deposition by December 11, unless the discovery period is extended. Last week, attorneys asked Lett to compel Trump to attend the deposition after the last scheduled meeting failed to take place.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-hits-mines-in-hormuz-trump-accuses-iran-of-driving-up-oil-prices-ahead-of-us-midterms-1792686379571">‘Fake hits, mines’ in Hormuz? Trump accuses Iran of driving up oil prices ahead of US midterms</a>&nbsp;On the day of the cancelled deposition, Trump attended a midterms campaign rally in Dalton, Georgia, followed by a fundraiser at his Mar-a-Lago property in Florida. In a separate filing on Wednesday, Trump's lawyers said the president could appear for the interview between 11 and 22 January next year. They also argued that the BBC was wrong to claim that President Trump is avoiding his deposition in this action. Trump filed the lawsuit in Florida, accusing the BBC of intentionally, maliciously, and deceptively doctoring a speech he delivered outside the US Capitol on January 6, 2021.&nbsp;The BBC apologised for the editing error, acknowledging that the broadcast gave the mistaken impression that President Trump made a direct call for violent action. The broadcaster has since asked the court to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that the programme does not meet the legal requirements for defamation and was not available in the United States. In July, Trump's lawyers conceded that they had no evidence that the documentary was available in the US through the BBC's BritBox subscription service, as they had originally claimed.&nbsp;&nbsp;They also lacked evidence that it was available on the BBC's website, BBC Select or through US broadcasters. Trump subsequently agreed to drop the lawsuit against BBC Studios, the broadcaster's commercial arm, after the BBC argued that it had no role in creating or producing the documentary.&nbsp;

A US judge orders Donald Trump to give a deposition by 11 December in his BBC defamation lawsuit over the editing of his January 6 speech

A US judge has ordered President Donald Trump to answer questions under oath by December 11 in his defamation lawsuit against the BBC over the editing of a speech he delivered before the 2021 US Capitol riot. Charles Tobin, a lawyer representing the BBC, told the court that we still haven't been able to depose the plaintiff, with two months remaining in the discovery period. Trump cancelled a previously scheduled deposition on October 16, citing matters of national importance while campaigning in Georgia. Under US law, a deposition is an out-of-court statement made under oath in response to questions. The proceedings are recorded and can be used in subsequent legal proceedings. US Magistrate Judge Enjolique Lett ruled that Trump must appear for the deposition by December 11, unless the discovery period is extended. Last week, attorneys asked Lett to compel Trump to attend the deposition after the last scheduled meeting failed to take place. Also Read: ‘Fake hits, mines’ in Hormuz? Trump accuses Iran of driving up oil prices ahead of US midterms On the day of the cancelled deposition, Trump attended a midterms campaign rally in Dalton, Georgia, followed by a fundraiser at his Mar-a-Lago property in Florida. In a separate filing on Wednesday, Trump's lawyers said the president could appear for the interview between 11 and 22 January next year. They also argued that the BBC was wrong to claim that President Trump is avoiding his deposition in this action. Trump filed the lawsuit in Florida, accusing the BBC of intentionally, maliciously, and deceptively doctoring a speech he delivered outside the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. The BBC apologised for the editing error, acknowledging that the broadcast gave the mistaken impression that President Trump made a direct call for violent action. The broadcaster has since asked the court to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that the programme does not meet the legal requirements for defamation and was not available in the United States. In July, Trump's lawyers conceded that they had no evidence that the documentary was available in the US through the BBC's BritBox subscription service, as they had originally claimed. They also lacked evidence that it was available on the BBC's website, BBC Select or through US broadcasters. Trump subsequently agreed to drop the lawsuit against BBC Studios, the broadcaster's commercial arm, after the BBC argued that it had no role in creating or producing the documentary.

A US judge has ordered Trump to answer questions under oath by 11 December in his defamation lawsuit against the BBC over a Panorama edit

Trump ordered to answer questions under oath in BBC defamation lawsuit by December 11

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