On Monday, when the Midwestern state kicks off the 2024 White House nomination race with its caucuses, farmers from Iowa have decided to choose Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over frontrunner and former president Donald Trump. Watch this report for more details.

US: Farmers in Iowa have dumped Donald Trump for Ron DeSantis

The Supreme Court of the US state of Oregon, on Friday (Jan 12) decided to keep former United States President and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump on the state’s primary ballot after it declined to hear the bid filed against him&nbsp;over his role in the January 6 attack on the US Capitol by his supporters. &nbsp;

<h2>What did the court say?</h2>

Oregon is one of the several states where rights groups have filed lawsuits to get the former president removed from their state ballot under section 3 of the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution.&nbsp;

The rarely used, civil-war era provision of the American Constitution that bars officials who have engaged in “insurrection or rebellion” from holding office is being used against Trump over his role in the January 6 insurrection by his supporters at the US Capitol.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Donald Trump blocked from Maine presidential ballot

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The lawsuit at the Oregon Supreme Court was filed by five Oregon voters and organised by Free Speech For The People, a liberal advocacy group last year.

The state’s top court has decided to hold the ruling until the US Supreme Court (SCOTUS) hears an appeal by the former president.

The SCOTUS’ ruling may decide the issue once and for all, but the Oregon court said that plaintiffs could try again.&nbsp;

Notably, the US Supreme Court, where conservatives hold a six to three majority, has never ruled on Section 3, which fell into disuse after the 1870s.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-barred-from-colorado-ballot-for-role-in-january-6-attack-on-us-capitol-671523">Trump barred from Colorado ballot for role in January 6 attack on US Capitol</a>

So far, the US states of Colorado and Maine have kicked Trump off their state ballots based on the lawsuits filed under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution. However, these decisions can be appealed.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Disappointing’</h2>

“The Oregon Supreme Court’s decision not to decide is disappointing,” the liberal advocacy group said in a statement Friday (Jan 12) after the ruling.&nbsp;

It added, “Waiting until the U.S. Supreme Court issues its order only compresses the time that the Oregon Supreme Court may have to resolve the issues that may remain.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-appeals-maines-biased-decision-makers-presidential-primary-ballot-ban-676039">Donald Trump appeals Maine's 'biased' decision maker's presidential primary ballot ban</a>

Meanwhile, the Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung hailed the decision calling it the “correct one.” He added, “President Trump urges the swift dismissal of all remaining, bad-faith, election interference 14th Amendment ballot challenges.”

According to Oregon election officials, the names on the primary ballot must be finalised by March 21 and the state’s primary will be held exactly two months after.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court of the US state of Oregon, on Friday (Jan 12) decided to keep former United States President and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump on the state’s primary ballot after it declined to hear the bid filed against him over his role in the January 6 attack on the US Capitol by his supporters.

The Supreme Court of the US state of Oregon, on Friday (Jan 12) decided to keep former United States President and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump on the state’s primary ballot after it declined to hear the bid filed against him over his role in the January 6 attack on the US Capitol by his supporters. What did the court say? Oregon is one of the several states where rights groups have filed lawsuits to get the former president removed from their state ballot under section 3 of the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution. The rarely used, civil-war era provision of the American Constitution that bars officials who have engaged in “insurrection or rebellion” from holding office is being used against Trump over his role in the January 6 insurrection by his supporters at the US Capitol. WATCH | Donald Trump blocked from Maine presidential ballot The lawsuit at the Oregon Supreme Court was filed by five Oregon voters and organised by Free Speech For The People, a liberal advocacy group last year. The state’s top court has decided to hold the ruling until the US Supreme Court (SCOTUS) hears an appeal by the former president. The SCOTUS’ ruling may decide the issue once and for all, but the Oregon court said that plaintiffs could try again. Notably, the US Supreme Court, where conservatives hold a six to three majority, has never ruled on Section 3, which fell into disuse after the 1870s. ALSO READ | Trump barred from Colorado ballot for role in January 6 attack on US Capitol So far, the US states of Colorado and Maine have kicked Trump off their state ballots based on the lawsuits filed under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution. However, these decisions can be appealed. ‘Disappointing’ “The Oregon Supreme Court’s decision not to decide is disappointing,” the liberal advocacy group said in a statement Friday (Jan 12) after the ruling. It added, “Waiting until the U.S. Supreme Court issues its order only compresses the time that the Oregon Supreme Court may have to resolve the issues that may remain.” ALSO READ | Donald Trump appeals Maine's 'biased' decision maker's presidential primary ballot ban Meanwhile, the Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung hailed the decision calling it the “correct one.” He added, “President Trump urges the swift dismissal of all remaining, bad-faith, election interference 14th Amendment ballot challenges.” According to Oregon election officials, the names on the primary ballot must be finalised by March 21 and the state’s primary will be held exactly two months after. (With inputs from agencies)

US presidential election 2024: Trump not to be removed from Oregon ballot, for now, says state’s supreme court

Former US President Donald Trump mocked the current President Joe Biden's age with a satirical video in what he portrayed as a retirement home advertisement. The 30-second clip, shared on Instagram and Truth Social, shows the White House as a senior living facility with the 81-year-old Biden as its primary resident.

Joe Biden is aged 81 and is set to go to polls later this year to claim another term as the US president in the White House.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-road-for-vivek-ramaswamy-republican-leader-remained-absent-from-gop-debate-679149">End of road for Vivek Ramaswamy? Republican leader remained absent from GOP debate</a>

Biden's age has become a point of concern among voters ahead of the 2024 presidential election, given his noticeable slips, falls, and gaffes during his tenure as the US president.&nbsp;

The video, titled 'White House Senior Living,' portrays the White House as a vibrant facility offering various activities, professional care, and exquisite homemade meals.&nbsp;

The narrator quips, "Our residents feel right at home," as the camera zooms in on the White House, followed by footage of a seemingly ill-focused Biden.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Rewind 2023: This year saw Trump rising from the ashes

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The clip humorously includes scenes of Biden at the beach and First Lady Jill Biden assisting him with his jacket, all set against an uplifting background music.&nbsp;

A TV interview snippet then captures Biden admitting to indulging in Italian food and, notably, his fondness for chocolate chip ice cream.

<h2>Questions on Joe Biden's age</h2>

Despite the light-hearted tone of the video, concerns about Biden's age persist.&nbsp;

An August poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research revealed that 77 per cent of US&nbsp;adults, including 69 per cent of Democrats, viewed Biden as too old to effectively serve for four more years. In contrast, a Monmouth University poll in October indicated that 48 per cent of voters felt the same about Trump.

As the 2024 election season heats up, the debate over the impact of age on presidential hopefuls continues to be a key point of discussion among voters and political observers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US President Donald Trump mocked the current President Joe Biden's age with a satirical video in what he portrayed as a retirement home advertisement. The 30-second clip, shared on Instagram and Truth Social, shows the White House as a senior living facility with the 81-year-old Biden as its primary resident.

Former US President Donald Trump mocked the current President Joe Biden's age with a satirical video in what he portrayed as a retirement home advertisement. The 30-second clip, shared on Instagram and Truth Social, shows the White House as a senior living facility with the 81-year-old Biden as its primary resident. Joe Biden is aged 81 and is set to go to polls later this year to claim another term as the US president in the White House. Also read | End of road for Vivek Ramaswamy? Republican leader remained absent from GOP debate Biden's age has become a point of concern among voters ahead of the 2024 presidential election, given his noticeable slips, falls, and gaffes during his tenure as the US president. The video, titled 'White House Senior Living,' portrays the White House as a vibrant facility offering various activities, professional care, and exquisite homemade meals. The narrator quips, "Our residents feel right at home," as the camera zooms in on the White House, followed by footage of a seemingly ill-focused Biden. Also watch | WION Rewind 2023: This year saw Trump rising from the ashes × The clip humorously includes scenes of Biden at the beach and First Lady Jill Biden assisting him with his jacket, all set against an uplifting background music. A TV interview snippet then captures Biden admitting to indulging in Italian food and, notably, his fondness for chocolate chip ice cream. Questions on Joe Biden's age Despite the light-hearted tone of the video, concerns about Biden's age persist. An August poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research revealed that 77 per cent of US adults, including 69 per cent of Democrats, viewed Biden as too old to effectively serve for four more years. In contrast, a Monmouth University poll in October indicated that 48 per cent of voters felt the same about Trump. As the 2024 election season heats up, the debate over the impact of age on presidential hopefuls continues to be a key point of discussion among voters and political observers. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump mocks Biden with 'White House Senior Living' campaign video

The last hearing of former US president Donald Trump’s fraud trial started off in a frenzy in New York on Thursday morning (Jan 11), as a bomb squad reached the home of the judge, who is overseeing the cases, and spectators, as well as reporters, packed the courtroom to see the end of the trial. 
 
Thursday was the last opportunity for the legal team of Trump to make an appeal to Judge Arthur Engoron, who is set to decide if a fine of $370 million should be imposed on Trump for allegedly falsifying financial statements to increase his net worth. 
 
Before the court hearing started, police in Nassau County on Long Island said that responding to a security incident at Engoron’s residence, they reached the home at 5.30 am (local time). 
 
Engoron, along with his staff, has faced frequent vitriolic criticism from Trump throughout the case, and his office received many death threats.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-knows-who-he-wants-to-be-his-vice-president-but-wont-reveal-679131">Trump knows who he wants to be his vice president, but won't reveal</a>

On Wednesday (Jan 12), the legal team of Trump and Engoron clashed again over the unusual request of Trump to deliver his own closing arguments at the trial. 
 
Engoron did not allow Trump to speak after his lawyers failed to confirm that the former US president would not use the opportunity to deliver “a campaign speech” or “impugn myself, my staff, plaintiff, plaintiff’s staff, or the New York state court system”.

<h2 lang="en-US">What happened here, sir, is a fraud on me: Trump</h2>

However, Trump – who sat quietly during the closing arguments of the attorney – later started a rant in a bid to express his feelings. 
 
“We have a situation where I’m an innocent man,” Trump said to the judge. “They should pay me for what I’ve gone through. This is not consumer fraud. This is no fraud. It is a fraud on me,” he added. 
 
Trump claimed that he was persecuted by “someone running for office” while making reference to New York Attorney General Letitia James, who brought the case against Trump.

Watch:&nbsp;US: Trump's trial reaches its climax after clashes with the judge

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Before Trump started speaking, the judge had reluctantly agreed to give the US president five minutes but had asked him to “focus on the facts” of the case. 
 
Trump also made insulting remarks at the judge as well as the attorney general Letitia James, who was present in the court. 
 
“I know this is boring to you. I know you have your own agenda,” said Trump, angrily to the judge, while sitting at the defence table. He added that James “hates” him and “doesn’t want him to get elected,” and called the case a “persecution".

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The last hearing of former US president Donald Trump’s fraud trial started off in a frenzy in New York on Thursday morning (Jan 11), as a bomb squad reached the home of the judge, who is overseeing the cases, and spectators, as well as reporters, packed the courtroom to see the end of the trial.

The last hearing of former US president Donald Trump’s fraud trial started off in a frenzy in New York on Thursday morning (Jan 11), as a bomb squad reached the home of the judge, who is overseeing the cases, and spectators, as well as reporters, packed the courtroom to see the end of the trial. Thursday was the last opportunity for the legal team of Trump to make an appeal to Judge Arthur Engoron, who is set to decide if a fine of $370 million should be imposed on Trump for allegedly falsifying financial statements to increase his net worth. Before the court hearing started, police in Nassau County on Long Island said that responding to a security incident at Engoron’s residence, they reached the home at 5.30 am (local time). Engoron, along with his staff, has faced frequent vitriolic criticism from Trump throughout the case, and his office received many death threats. Also read: Trump knows who he wants to be his vice president, but won't reveal On Wednesday (Jan 12), the legal team of Trump and Engoron clashed again over the unusual request of Trump to deliver his own closing arguments at the trial. Engoron did not allow Trump to speak after his lawyers failed to confirm that the former US president would not use the opportunity to deliver “a campaign speech” or “impugn myself, my staff, plaintiff, plaintiff’s staff, or the New York state court system”. What happened here, sir, is a fraud on me: Trump However, Trump – who sat quietly during the closing arguments of the attorney – later started a rant in a bid to express his feelings. “We have a situation where I’m an innocent man,” Trump said to the judge. “They should pay me for what I’ve gone through. This is not consumer fraud. This is no fraud. It is a fraud on me,” he added. Trump claimed that he was persecuted by “someone running for office” while making reference to New York Attorney General Letitia James, who brought the case against Trump. Watch: US: Trump's trial reaches its climax after clashes with the judge Before Trump started speaking, the judge had reluctantly agreed to give the US president five minutes but had asked him to “focus on the facts” of the case. Trump also made insulting remarks at the judge as well as the attorney general Letitia James, who was present in the court. “I know this is boring to you. I know you have your own agenda,” said Trump, angrily to the judge, while sitting at the defence table. He added that James “hates” him and “doesn’t want him to get elected,” and called the case a “persecution". (With inputs from agencies)

NY fraud trial: Trump calls himself 'innocent', claims ‘what happened here is fraud on me’

Former United States president and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump lashed out at Democrats and actor Mark Ruffalo amid backlash following allegations that he was on the plane of the convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein.&nbsp;

<h2>Trump lashes out</h2>

The former president took to his social media platform ‘Truth Social’, on Wednesday (Jan 10) and criticised actor Mark Ruffalo after he unknowingly shared AI-generated images showing the former president on the plane of the disgraced sex offender.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-billionaire-had-sex-tapes-of-prince-andrew-bill-clinton-and-trump-claims-witness-678144">Epstein files: Billionaire had ‘sex tapes’ of Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton and Trump, claimed witness</a>

“Gross. #MAGA wants to paint everyone on those flights as pedophiles except the one guy who smiles in a group of young girls all headed to Epstein’s ‘Fantasy Island’ with him. My bet is there are some decent Republicans left in America that may think this is going too far,” said Ruffalo, in a post on X along with the fake images.&nbsp;

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Gross. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MAGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MAGA</a> wants to paint everyone on those flights as pedophiles except the one guy who smiles in a group of young girls all headed to Epstein’s “Fantasy Island” with him. My bet is there are some decent republicans left in America that may think this is going too far. <a href="https://t.co/e0IWT1lnCZ">https://t.co/e0IWT1lnCZ</a>
— Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkRuffalo/status/1743060455239901573?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The actor, best known for playing Bruce Banner or the Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), later backtracked and issued an apology while also taking a swipe at Elon Musk.&nbsp;

“Sorry Folks. Apparently these images are AI fakes. The fact Trump was on Epstein’s plane and what Epstein was up to is not. Be careful. Elon’s X and his allowing so much disinformation here is driving the value of his app down by 55%.”

The images that the Hollywood actor shared were posted by an X user claiming that they were pictures of Trump&nbsp;who took two separate flights to Epstein’s “paedophile island,” but they turned out to be AI-generated.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/more-court-documents-related-to-jeffrey-epstein-unsealed-676986">More court documents related to Jeffrey Epstein unsealed</a>

Trump lashed out at the actor and the&nbsp;Democrats over the incident saying, “This is what the Democrats do to their Republican Opponent, who is leading them, by a lot, in the Polls. This is A.I., and it is very dangerous for our Country! Also, I was never on Epstein’s Plane, or at his ‘stupid’ Island. Strong Laws ought to be developed against A.I. It will be a big and very dangerous problem in the future!”

<h2>Allegations against Trump</h2>

Earlier this month, previously sealed court documents related to Epstein’s decades of sexual abuse were released disclosing details about the case against him. The documents contained the names of prominent figures who reportedly were once connected to Epstein, including Trump.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeffrey-epstein-papers-underage-girls-were-recruited-to-be-exploited-for-massages-676728">Jeffrey Epstein papers: Underage girls were recruited to be exploited 'for massages'</a>

Sarah Ransome, one of the witnesses in the Epstein case claimed that former US president Trump “had sexual relations with [her friend] at Jeffrey’s NY mansion on regular occasions”.

In one of the email extracts, Ransome, aiming at Hillary Clinton, is reported to have said, "I will make sure that neither that evil b***h Hillary or that paedophile Trump gets elected.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Former United States president and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump lashed out at Democrats and actor Mark Ruffalo amid backlash following allegations that he was on the plane of the convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Former United States president and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump lashed out at Democrats and actor Mark Ruffalo amid backlash following allegations that he was on the plane of the convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Trump lashes out The former president took to his social media platform ‘Truth Social’, on Wednesday (Jan 10) and criticised actor Mark Ruffalo after he unknowingly shared AI-generated images showing the former president on the plane of the disgraced sex offender. ALSO READ | Epstein files: Billionaire had ‘sex tapes’ of Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton and Trump, claimed witness “Gross. #MAGA wants to paint everyone on those flights as pedophiles except the one guy who smiles in a group of young girls all headed to Epstein’s ‘Fantasy Island’ with him. My bet is there are some decent Republicans left in America that may think this is going too far,” said Ruffalo, in a post on X along with the fake images. Gross. #MAGA wants to paint everyone on those flights as pedophiles except the one guy who smiles in a group of young girls all headed to Epstein’s “Fantasy Island” with him. My bet is there are some decent republicans left in America that may think this is going too far. https://t.co/e0IWT1lnCZ — Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) January 5, 2024 × The actor, best known for playing Bruce Banner or the Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), later backtracked and issued an apology while also taking a swipe at Elon Musk. “Sorry Folks. Apparently these images are AI fakes. The fact Trump was on Epstein’s plane and what Epstein was up to is not. Be careful. Elon’s X and his allowing so much disinformation here is driving the value of his app down by 55%.” The images that the Hollywood actor shared were posted by an X user claiming that they were pictures of Trump who took two separate flights to Epstein’s “paedophile island,” but they turned out to be AI-generated. ALSO WATCH | More court documents related to Jeffrey Epstein unsealed Trump lashed out at the actor and the Democrats over the incident saying, “This is what the Democrats do to their Republican Opponent, who is leading them, by a lot, in the Polls. This is A.I., and it is very dangerous for our Country! Also, I was never on Epstein’s Plane, or at his ‘stupid’ Island. Strong Laws ought to be developed against A.I. It will be a big and very dangerous problem in the future!” Allegations against Trump Earlier this month, previously sealed court documents related to Epstein’s decades of sexual abuse were released disclosing details about the case against him. The documents contained the names of prominent figures who reportedly were once connected to Epstein, including Trump. ALSO READ | Jeffrey Epstein papers: Underage girls were recruited to be exploited 'for massages' Sarah Ransome, one of the witnesses in the Epstein case claimed that former US president Trump “had sexual relations with [her friend] at Jeffrey’s NY mansion on regular occasions”. In one of the email extracts, Ransome, aiming at Hillary Clinton, is reported to have said, "I will make sure that neither that evil b***h Hillary or that paedophile Trump gets elected.” (With inputs from agencies)

Jeffrey Epstein files: Trump lashes out at actor Mark Ruffalo, says was ‘never on stupid island’

Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that he has already decided who he wants to be his vice president, but didn't reveal the name.&nbsp;

At a Fox News town hall in Des Moines, Trump was asked about a potential vice president, he said: "I can't tell you that really. I mean, I know who it's going to be."&nbsp;

Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination, said that he was open to choosing someone competing against him for the party's nomination.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-iowa-caucuses-2024-are-important-for-us-presidential-elections-679088">Explained | Why Iowa Caucuses 2024 are important for US Presidential Elections?</a>&nbsp;

The presenter asked him about "any of the people who you've run against" and would the former president be open to mending ties with any of his rivals in the race.&nbsp;

Trump replied: "Oh, sure I will. I will. I've already started to like (Chris) Christie better."&nbsp;&nbsp;

While talking about Chris Christie's exit from the presidential race, Trump said that he was not worried for the nomination.&nbsp;

He also talked about his rival, stating, "He (Chris Christie) had a hot mic where he was talking to somebody about the weather and he happened to say that she (Nikki Haley) doesn't have what it takes, she'll be creamed in the election. And I mean, I know her very well and I happen to believe that Chris Christie is right. That's one of the few things he's been right about."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-ocean-conferences-7th-edition-set-for-perth-on-february-9-10-679052">Indian Ocean Conference's 7th edition set for Perth on February 9-10</a>

Trump's campaign advisers told reporters after the town hall that they could not provide any additional information about the former president's views on the topic.&nbsp;

Chris LaCivita, one of Trump's top aides, said: "All I know is what I heard tonight. And I'm not going to categorise it any other way than that."&nbsp;

The town hall took place at the same time Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Haley came out swinging at each other during a Republican debate.&nbsp;

Both candidates sought to emerge as the clear alternative to Trump just days before the campaign's first votes were cast.&nbsp;

A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Tuesday showed Trump maintaining a commanding lead in the race to be the party's nominee against President Joe Biden in the November 5 election.&nbsp;

The poll put him at 49%, ahead of Haley at 12% and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at 11%.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that he has already decided who he wants to be his vice president, but didn't reveal the name. At a Fox News town hall in Des Moines, Trump was asked about a potential vice president, he said: "I can't tell you that really.

Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 10) said that he has already decided who he wants to be his vice president, but didn't reveal the name. At a Fox News town hall in Des Moines, Trump was asked about a potential vice president, he said: "I can't tell you that really. I mean, I know who it's going to be." Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination, said that he was open to choosing someone competing against him for the party's nomination. Also read: Explained | Why Iowa Caucuses 2024 are important for US Presidential Elections? The presenter asked him about "any of the people who you've run against" and would the former president be open to mending ties with any of his rivals in the race. Trump replied: "Oh, sure I will. I will. I've already started to like (Chris) Christie better." While talking about Chris Christie's exit from the presidential race, Trump said that he was not worried for the nomination. He also talked about his rival, stating, "He (Chris Christie) had a hot mic where he was talking to somebody about the weather and he happened to say that she (Nikki Haley) doesn't have what it takes, she'll be creamed in the election. And I mean, I know her very well and I happen to believe that Chris Christie is right. That's one of the few things he's been right about." Also read: Indian Ocean Conference's 7th edition set for Perth on February 9-10 Trump's campaign advisers told reporters after the town hall that they could not provide any additional information about the former president's views on the topic. Chris LaCivita, one of Trump's top aides, said: "All I know is what I heard tonight. And I'm not going to categorise it any other way than that." The town hall took place at the same time Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Haley came out swinging at each other during a Republican debate. Both candidates sought to emerge as the clear alternative to Trump just days before the campaign's first votes were cast. A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Tuesday showed Trump maintaining a commanding lead in the race to be the party's nominee against President Joe Biden in the November 5 election. The poll put him at 49%, ahead of Haley at 12% and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at 11%. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump knows who he wants to be his vice president, but won't reveal name yet

In a dramatic conclusion to his civil fraud trial, Donald Trump accused the New York judge justice Arthur Engoron of quote-unquote, having your own agenda. In response, Engoron didn't mince words, asking Trump's lawyer to control his client.

US: Donald Trump's New York Civil fraud trial wraps up, judge asks lawyers to 'control your client'

Donald Trump took to his social media platform to share a claim about Nikki Haley, that she is not eligible to become president of the United States because her parents were not US citizens when she was born.&nbsp;

On his Truth Social profile, Trump posted a screenshot of the claim being made about Haley by the far-right website The Gateway Pundit.&nbsp;

The Gateway Pundit posted a screenshot on X, which read, "In @NikkiHaley's situation, reports indicate that her parents were not U.S. citizens at the time of her birth in 1972."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-opposition-leader-was-stabbed-to-keep-him-from-presidency-678724">South Korean opposition leader was stabbed to keep him from presidency</a>&nbsp;

"Based on the Constitution as interpreted by @PaulIngrassia, this disqualifies Haley from presidential or vice-presidential candidacy under the 12th Amendment," it further read, which was shared by Trump.&nbsp;

In the US, a person must be a "natural born citizen" and at least 35 years old and must have resided in the country for at least 14 years to be eligible for the presidency.&nbsp;

Notably, Haley's parents were immigrants, who became citizens after her birth in 1972. She was born in South Carolina and has lived in the nation her entire life. In her 2012 autobiography, she wrote that her parents "were born in the Punjab region of India".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-in-favour-of-tangible-steps-for-palestinian-state-blinken-tells-abbas-678690">US in favour of 'tangible steps' for Palestinian state, Blinken tells Abbas</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Major winter storm slams US with power outages&nbsp;

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<h2>What about the claims?&nbsp;</h2>

NBC News reported that in an email, Harvard Law School professor emeritus Laurence Tribe wrote: "The birther claims against Nikki Haley are totally baseless as a legal and constitutional matter."&nbsp;

"I can't imagine what Trump hopes to gain by those claims unless it's to play the race card against the former governor and UN ambassador as a woman of colour — and to draw on the wellsprings of anti-immigrant prejudice by reminding everyone that Haley's parents weren't citizens when she was born in the USA," Tribe added.&nbsp;

US-based media outlets have reported that the 14th Amendment clearly states that "all persons born or naturalised in the United States" are citizens.&nbsp;

The 14th Amendment was enacted after the Civil War to confer citizenship upon Black Americans who had previously been slaves.&nbsp;

As quoted by NBC News, Burt Neuborne, a professor emeritus at New York University Law School and the founding legal director of the Brennan Center for Justice said that "someone should tell him [Trump] that the North won" the Civil War.&nbsp;

"If you're born in the United States, the whole purpose of the 14th Amendment was to make you a citizen," he further added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Donald Trump took to his social media platform to share a claim about Nikki Haley, that she is not eligible to become president of the United States because her parents were not US citizens when she was born.

Donald Trump took to his social media platform to share a claim about Nikki Haley, that she is not eligible to become president of the United States because her parents were not US citizens when she was born. On his Truth Social profile, Trump posted a screenshot of the claim being made about Haley by the far-right website The Gateway Pundit. The Gateway Pundit posted a screenshot on X, which read, "In @NikkiHaley's situation, reports indicate that her parents were not U.S. citizens at the time of her birth in 1972." Also read: South Korean opposition leader was stabbed to keep him from presidency "Based on the Constitution as interpreted by @PaulIngrassia, this disqualifies Haley from presidential or vice-presidential candidacy under the 12th Amendment," it further read, which was shared by Trump. In the US, a person must be a "natural born citizen" and at least 35 years old and must have resided in the country for at least 14 years to be eligible for the presidency. Notably, Haley's parents were immigrants, who became citizens after her birth in 1972. She was born in South Carolina and has lived in the nation her entire life. In her 2012 autobiography, she wrote that her parents "were born in the Punjab region of India". Also read: US in favour of 'tangible steps' for Palestinian state, Blinken tells Abbas Watch: Major winter storm slams US with power outages × What about the claims? NBC News reported that in an email, Harvard Law School professor emeritus Laurence Tribe wrote: "The birther claims against Nikki Haley are totally baseless as a legal and constitutional matter." "I can't imagine what Trump hopes to gain by those claims unless it's to play the race card against the former governor and UN ambassador as a woman of colour — and to draw on the wellsprings of anti-immigrant prejudice by reminding everyone that Haley's parents weren't citizens when she was born in the USA," Tribe added. US-based media outlets have reported that the 14th Amendment clearly states that "all persons born or naturalised in the United States" are citizens. The 14th Amendment was enacted after the Civil War to confer citizenship upon Black Americans who had previously been slaves. As quoted by NBC News, Burt Neuborne, a professor emeritus at New York University Law School and the founding legal director of the Brennan Center for Justice said that "someone should tell him [Trump] that the North won" the Civil War. "If you're born in the United States, the whole purpose of the 14th Amendment was to make you a citizen," he further added. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump shares far-right claim about Nikki Haley not being eligible for presidency over her birth

In a Republican debate that featured insults mixed with policy, US presidential hopefuls Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley repeatedly accused each other of lying. On Wednesday, in the final&nbsp; debate before the nominating process known as primaries begins, the Florida governor and former US Ambassador to UN&nbsp;pitched their bids to Republicans, battling to emerge as the top alternative to favourite Donald Trump.

Days before the campaign's first votes are to be cast, the two battled to be the GOP's candidate in the 2024 US presidential election.

&nbsp;

<h2>Verbal ammunition flies thick and fast</h2>

Former US president Donald Trump was once again absent from the debate held in Iowa's capital, Des Moines. The two present at the debate, DeSantis and Haley, bombarded each other with a slew of insults, engaging in an increasingly rancorous battle.

At one point, DeSantis referred to Haley as a "mealy-mouthed politician".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/creme-de-la-creme-these-are-the-worlds-most-powerful-passports-india-pakistan-rank-at-these-positions-678821">Crème de la crème: These are the world's most powerful passports; India, Pakistan rank at these positions</a>

"We don't need another mealy-mouthed politician who just tells you what she thinks you want to hear just to try to get your vote, then to get an office and to do her donors' bidding," he said.

"Donald Trump is running to pursue his issues. Nikki Haley is running to pursue her donors' issues. I'm running to pursue your issues and your family's issues and to turn this country around," he added.

Haley also made it obvious that the gloves were off. Hitting out at rival DeSantis' runaway campaign, she, as per AFP, repeatedly directed the audience to a website dedicated to documenting his "lies".

"Every time he lies… don't turn this into a drinking game because you will be over-served by the end of the night," said Haley.

<h2>Donald Trump absent, Chris Christie drops out</h2>

Trump, the clear frontrunner, was noticeably absent from the head-to-head showdown just five days before Iowa's pivotal opening vote in the primary season.

Chris Christie, Trump's most vocal critic in the Republican Party, dropped out just hours earlier. With no other candidates qualifying, Haley and DeSantis were expected to take potshots at Trump. However, the two mainly were seen competing to be his closest runner-up.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-trump-critic-chris-christie-drops-out-of-2024-white-house-race-678791">US elections: Trump critic Chris Christie drops out of 2024 presidential race</a>

Haley, for the most part, stuck to her campaign line that Trump was "the right president at the right time" but that "his way is not my way."

At one point, she did criticise Trump over his bogus claims of a stolen election in 2020.&nbsp;

DeSantis was tougher on Trump and briefly hit out at his 'poor record' on curbing public disorder, broken promises on border security and failure to attack Washington's corruption.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a Republican debate that featured insults mixed with policy, US presidential hopefuls Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley repeatedly accused each other of lying. On Wednesday, in the final debate before the nominating process known as primaries begins, the Florida governor and former US Ambassador to UN pitched their bids to Republicans, battling to emerge as the top alternative to favourite Donald Trump.

In a Republican debate that featured insults mixed with policy, US presidential hopefuls Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley repeatedly accused each other of lying. On Wednesday, in the final debate before the nominating process known as primaries begins, the Florida governor and former US Ambassador to UN pitched their bids to Republicans, battling to emerge as the top alternative to favourite Donald Trump. Days before the campaign's first votes are to be cast, the two battled to be the GOP's candidate in the 2024 US presidential election. Verbal ammunition flies thick and fast Former US president Donald Trump was once again absent from the debate held in Iowa's capital, Des Moines. The two present at the debate, DeSantis and Haley, bombarded each other with a slew of insults, engaging in an increasingly rancorous battle. At one point, DeSantis referred to Haley as a "mealy-mouthed politician". Also read | Crème de la crème: These are the world's most powerful passports; India, Pakistan rank at these positions "We don't need another mealy-mouthed politician who just tells you what she thinks you want to hear just to try to get your vote, then to get an office and to do her donors' bidding," he said. "Donald Trump is running to pursue his issues. Nikki Haley is running to pursue her donors' issues. I'm running to pursue your issues and your family's issues and to turn this country around," he added. Haley also made it obvious that the gloves were off. Hitting out at rival DeSantis' runaway campaign, she, as per AFP, repeatedly directed the audience to a website dedicated to documenting his "lies". "Every time he lies… don't turn this into a drinking game because you will be over-served by the end of the night," said Haley. Donald Trump absent, Chris Christie drops out Trump, the clear frontrunner, was noticeably absent from the head-to-head showdown just five days before Iowa's pivotal opening vote in the primary season. Chris Christie, Trump's most vocal critic in the Republican Party, dropped out just hours earlier. With no other candidates qualifying, Haley and DeSantis were expected to take potshots at Trump. However, the two mainly were seen competing to be his closest runner-up. Also read | US elections: Trump critic Chris Christie drops out of 2024 presidential race Haley, for the most part, stuck to her campaign line that Trump was "the right president at the right time" but that "his way is not my way." At one point, she did criticise Trump over his bogus claims of a stolen election in 2020. DeSantis was tougher on Trump and briefly hit out at his 'poor record' on curbing public disorder, broken promises on border security and failure to attack Washington's corruption. (With inputs from agencies)

'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race for the 2024 US elections, with a parting shot at frontrunner and former president Donald Trump. 
 
"I am going to make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be president of the United States again," said the Trump ally-turned-critic. 
 
"It's clear to me tonight that there isn't a path for me to win the nomination, which is why I'm suspending my campaign tonight for president of the United States," said Christie, while speaking to the supporters at an event held in Windham, New Hampshire.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-arrives-in-court-asking-for-immunity-against-election-interference-charges-678338">Trump warns of 'bedlam' in US if court cases against him go ahead</a>

The Republican candidate was facing pressure to step aside and allow the party to unify around a viable challenger to Trump. Christie bowed out of the race without endorsing anyone.

<h2 lang="en-US">Christie takes a dig at Haley on a hot mic</h2>

However, on a hot mic, minutes before announcing that he was stepping away from the race, Christie predicted that former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who is gaining on Trump in a few polls, was "going to get smoked, and you and I both know it". 
 
"She's not up to this," Christie added. He further said that even Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was "petrified". At a town hall event held in New Hampshire, United States on Wednesday afternoon (Jan 10), the 61-year-old said that he is suspending his election campaign. 
 
In his remarks, he called on the Republican voters to not support the former president who he said has been accused of "putting himself before the people of this country". 
 
"Donald Trump wants you to be angry every day because he is angry," DeSantis added. 
 
Christie's departure from the presidential elections comes five days before the Iowa caucuses, which will be the first of the state-by-state contests in which the preferred candidate for president's position will be chosen by Republican voters. 
 
In July, the winner of the contests will be anointed the Republican nominee, before he goes on to challenge the Democratic nominee, which is most likely going to be Joe Biden - in the general election to be held in November.

Watch:&nbsp;US Elections 2024: DeSantis &amp; Haley seek to be alternative to Donald Trump

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Christie was facing pressure to drop out ahead of the second election in New Hampshire, where Haley is now running for second position in some polls, just behind Trump. The northeastern state has a major faction of unaffiliated voters and is known to deliver unpredictable results. 
 
Haley, in a statement, called Christie "a friend for many years" and commended him "on a hard-fought campaign". However, her opponents were quick to chime in on social media. 
 
Commenting on Christie's dig, DeSantis said he agreed Haley is "going to get smoked". Trump said he "might even get to like (Christie) again" following his "very truthful statement" about Haley.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race for the 2024 US elections, with a parting shot at frontrunner and former president Donald Trump.

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race for the 2024 US elections, with a parting shot at frontrunner and former president Donald Trump. "I am going to make sure that in no way do I enable Donald Trump to ever be president of the United States again," said the Trump ally-turned-critic. "It's clear to me tonight that there isn't a path for me to win the nomination, which is why I'm suspending my campaign tonight for president of the United States," said Christie, while speaking to the supporters at an event held in Windham, New Hampshire. Also read: Trump warns of 'bedlam' in US if court cases against him go ahead The Republican candidate was facing pressure to step aside and allow the party to unify around a viable challenger to Trump. Christie bowed out of the race without endorsing anyone. Christie takes a dig at Haley on a hot mic However, on a hot mic, minutes before announcing that he was stepping away from the race, Christie predicted that former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who is gaining on Trump in a few polls, was "going to get smoked, and you and I both know it". "She's not up to this," Christie added. He further said that even Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was "petrified". At a town hall event held in New Hampshire, United States on Wednesday afternoon (Jan 10), the 61-year-old said that he is suspending his election campaign. In his remarks, he called on the Republican voters to not support the former president who he said has been accused of "putting himself before the people of this country". "Donald Trump wants you to be angry every day because he is angry," DeSantis added. Christie's departure from the presidential elections comes five days before the Iowa caucuses, which will be the first of the state-by-state contests in which the preferred candidate for president's position will be chosen by Republican voters. In July, the winner of the contests will be anointed the Republican nominee, before he goes on to challenge the Democratic nominee, which is most likely going to be Joe Biden - in the general election to be held in November. Watch: US Elections 2024: DeSantis & Haley seek to be alternative to Donald Trump Christie was facing pressure to drop out ahead of the second election in New Hampshire, where Haley is now running for second position in some polls, just behind Trump. The northeastern state has a major faction of unaffiliated voters and is known to deliver unpredictable results. Haley, in a statement, called Christie "a friend for many years" and commended him "on a hard-fought campaign". However, her opponents were quick to chime in on social media. Commenting on Christie's dig, DeSantis said he agreed Haley is "going to get smoked". Trump said he "might even get to like (Christie) again" following his "very truthful statement" about Haley. (With inputs from agencies)

US elections: Trump critic Chris Christie drops out of 2024 presidential race

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie on Wednesday suspended his campaign for president. He has cast his decision as part of an effort to prevent former president Donald Trump being re-elected.

US Presidential elections: Chris Christie drops out of Republican Presidential race

In Washington DC, former US President Donald J Trump is speaking after a court hearing for his immunity appeal. Listen in.

Trump speaks after immunity appeal hearing

Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis made closing arguments on Tuesday in Iowa as they battle to become a clear alternative to frontrunner Donald Trump in the race for the Republican presidential nomination. Haley had much of Iowa to herself earlier in the day: Trump was stuck in court, while DeSantis began Tuesday tending to his day job back home as the Florida governor.

Trump poised to win Republican Iowa Caucus

Former US president Donald Trump on Tuesday (January 9) warned that prosecution against him would lead to chaos in the US. The exact word he chose was 'bedlam'&nbsp;which, despite not having a catastrophic literal meaning ('a scene full of noise and confusion') is enough to suggest&nbsp;something considerably chaotic, especially when viewed in the context of the January 6, 2021 attack on US Capitol building, the attack carried out by Trump supporters.

"It's very unfair when a political opponent is prosecuted by the (Justice Department)" of President Joe Biden, his likely 2024 election rival, Trump said.

"They feel this is the way they're going to try and win. And that's not the way it goes. It will be bedlam in the country."&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Trump appeared&nbsp;in a court in Washington DC to bat for immunity from prosecution over charges that accuse him of conspiracy to overturn US Presidential Election 2020 results. The court where the 77-year-old former president arrived is just a few blocks away from US Capitol building, which was stormed by his supporters in Janauary 2021. The last attack on the US Capitol building took place when America was still a British colony.

The trial over the election charges is set to begin on March 4. Trump's legal team has appealed quashing the charges claiming that he has "absolute immunity" and can't be prosecuted for his actions while he was in the White House.

By January 6, 2021, although it was clear that Trump had lost the election, he technically still was US president since current President Joe Biden had not formally taken charge.

Watch | Donald Trump calls for Lloyd Austin's removal over his secret hospitalisation

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This is not the first time an immunity claim has been made. Just last month, US District Judge Tanya Chutkan rejected immunity saying that even a former president can't have a "lifelong 'get-out-of-jail-free' pass." Chutkan will preside over the election-related trial against Trump.

Trump's "four-year service as Commander in Chief did not bestow on him the divine right of kings to evade the criminal accountability that governs his fellow citizens," Chutkan had said while she rejected the request for immunity.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ivanka-trump-faces-criticism-over-social-media-post-on-husband-jared-kushner-678261">Ivanka Trump faces criticism over social media post on husband Jared Kushner</a>

Trump made an appeal against the decision and a three-judge panel of US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit was hearing oral arguments on Tuesday.

Trump didn't need to attend the hearing but he decided to turn up anyway. This is being seen as a political signal as the hearing is taking place just days before Republican presidential primary in Iowa.

<h2>‘If I don't get it, Biden doesn't get it’</h2>

In the run up to the court hearing on Tuesday, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform saying that if he doesn't get immunity, President Joe Biden can be indicted if he returns to power after 2024 elections.

"The least I am entitled to is Presidential Immunity on Fake Biden Indictments!" Trump said.

"If I don't get Immunity, then Crooked Joe Biden doesn't get Immunity," Trump said, claiming Biden "would be ripe for Indictment."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-poll-case-co-defendant-seeks-das-disqualification-over-her-romantic-relationship-with-prosecutor-678147">Trump poll case co-defendant wants DA Fani Willis disqualified over relationship with prosecutor</a>

Trump has some historic&nbsp;firsts to his name. While in office, he became first US president to be impeached twice. After his tenure as president, he became first sitting or former US president to be charged, indicted and then arrested.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US president Donald Trump on Tuesday (January 9) warned that prosecution against him would lead to chaos in the US. The exact word he chose was 'bedlam' which, despite not having a catastrophic literal meaning ('a scene full of noise and confusion') is enough to suggest something considerably chaotic, especially when viewed in the context of the January 6, 2021 attack on US Capitol building, the attack carried out by Trump supporters.

Former US president Donald Trump on Tuesday (January 9) warned that prosecution against him would lead to chaos in the US. The exact word he chose was 'bedlam' which, despite not having a catastrophic literal meaning ('a scene full of noise and confusion') is enough to suggest something considerably chaotic, especially when viewed in the context of the January 6, 2021 attack on US Capitol building, the attack carried out by Trump supporters. "It's very unfair when a political opponent is prosecuted by the (Justice Department)" of President Joe Biden, his likely 2024 election rival, Trump said. "They feel this is the way they're going to try and win. And that's not the way it goes. It will be bedlam in the country." On Tuesday, Trump appeared in a court in Washington DC to bat for immunity from prosecution over charges that accuse him of conspiracy to overturn US Presidential Election 2020 results. The court where the 77-year-old former president arrived is just a few blocks away from US Capitol building, which was stormed by his supporters in Janauary 2021. The last attack on the US Capitol building took place when America was still a British colony. The trial over the election charges is set to begin on March 4. Trump's legal team has appealed quashing the charges claiming that he has "absolute immunity" and can't be prosecuted for his actions while he was in the White House. By January 6, 2021, although it was clear that Trump had lost the election, he technically still was US president since current President Joe Biden had not formally taken charge. Watch | Donald Trump calls for Lloyd Austin's removal over his secret hospitalisation × This is not the first time an immunity claim has been made. Just last month, US District Judge Tanya Chutkan rejected immunity saying that even a former president can't have a "lifelong 'get-out-of-jail-free' pass." Chutkan will preside over the election-related trial against Trump. Trump's "four-year service as Commander in Chief did not bestow on him the divine right of kings to evade the criminal accountability that governs his fellow citizens," Chutkan had said while she rejected the request for immunity. Also Read | Ivanka Trump faces criticism over social media post on husband Jared Kushner Trump made an appeal against the decision and a three-judge panel of US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit was hearing oral arguments on Tuesday. Trump didn't need to attend the hearing but he decided to turn up anyway. This is being seen as a political signal as the hearing is taking place just days before Republican presidential primary in Iowa. ‘If I don't get it, Biden doesn't get it’ In the run up to the court hearing on Tuesday, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform saying that if he doesn't get immunity, President Joe Biden can be indicted if he returns to power after 2024 elections. "The least I am entitled to is Presidential Immunity on Fake Biden Indictments!" Trump said. "If I don't get Immunity, then Crooked Joe Biden doesn't get Immunity," Trump said, claiming Biden "would be ripe for Indictment." Also Read | Trump poll case co-defendant wants DA Fani Willis disqualified over relationship with prosecutor Trump has some historic firsts to his name. While in office, he became first US president to be impeached twice. After his tenure as president, he became first sitting or former US president to be charged, indicted and then arrested. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump warns of 'bedlam' in US if court cases against him go ahead

A three-judge panel of the federal appeals court in Washington heard arguments on Tuesday in a momentous case over former President Donald Trump’s claim that he is immune from criminal charges for the efforts he took to overturn the 2020 election. Watch the report to know more!

US: Trump lawyers argue former president is immune from prosecution

A co-defendant in former US president Donald Trump's 2020 election interference case on Monday (Jan 8) sought the disqualification of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis over her "improper, clandestine personal relationship" with the case's special prosecutor.

A co-defendant in former US president Donald Trump's 2020 election interference case on Monday (Jan 8) sought the disqualification of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis over her "improper, clandestine personal relationship" with the case's special prosecutor. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the accusation was mentioned in a 127-page filing by co-defendant Michael Roman, who is seeking to have his indictment dismissed. The filing alleged a romantic relationship between Willis and prosecutor Nathan Wade. It said that Willis contracted Wade without the required approval by Washington. 'Willis, Wade violated laws...' "Sources close to both the special prosecutor and the district attorney have confirmed Willis and Wade had an ongoing, personal, and romantic relationship during the pendency of Wade's divorce proceedings," the document said. It alleged that the pair profited "significantly from this prosecution at the expense of the taxpayers," adding that Wade has been paid $653,881 as of December last year. "Accordingly, the district attorney and the special prosecutor have violated laws regulating the use of public monies, suffer from irreparable conflicts of interest, and have violated their oaths of office under the Georgia Rules of Professional Conduct and should be disqualified from prosecuting this matter," the document further said. Who is Michael Roman? Michael Roman is one of the 19 defendants charged with racketeering in the election case. In August last year, Roman turned himself in to authorities in Georgia to face charges that he played a role in a fake electors' plot to overturn the 2020 presidential election there. According to American media, Roman was indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit forgery in the first degree; conspiracy to commit false statements and writings; violation of the Georgia RICO Act; conspiracy to commit impersonating a public officer, and conspiracy to commit filing false documents. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump poll case co-defendant wants DA Fani Willis disqualified over relationship with prosecutor

In the fresh batch of the unsealed court files of Jeffrey Epstein, it has been disclosed that the defence team of the sex offender tried to undermine the credibility of one of the witnesses by revealing that she made claims of Epstein keeping "sex tapes" of prominent personalities. &nbsp;

As per allegations made by Sarah Ransome, the celebrities whose alleged sex tapes were recorded included Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton and Sir Richard Branson. A firm, which was representing Epstein’s lawyer Alan Dershowitz, had flagged her claims to demonstrate Ransome “manifestly lacks credibility”. No proof of the existence of any tapes was submitted by the court and Ransome had retracted the allegations&nbsp;soon after they were made initially.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-co-founder-sergey-brin-visited-jeffrey-epsteins-paedophile-island-new-court-docs-reveal-678096">Google co-founder Sergey Brin visited Jeffrey Epstein's 'paedophile island', new court docs reveal</a>

A victim impact statement was given by Ransome before British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell was sentenced for sex trafficking. The court was provided with the emails in which she had allegedly claimed Prince Andrew, Clinton and Branson were filmed by the child sex offender. Serious accusations were also made against the former US president Donald Trump by Ransome.&nbsp;

<h2>Jeffrey filmed the sex tapes: Ransome&nbsp;</h2>

As per the newly-released documents, Ransome had written in the emails: “When my friend had sexual intercourse with Clinton, Prince Andrew and Richard Branson, sex tapes were in fact filmed on each separate occasion by Jeffrey. Thank God she managed to get a hold of some footage of the filmed sex tapes, which clearly identify the faces of Clinton, Prince Andrew and Branson having sexual intercourse with her. Frustratingly enough, Epstein was not seen in any of the footage but he was clever like that."

“When my friend eventually had the courage to speak out and went to the police in 2008 to report what had happened, nothing was done and she was utterly humiliated by the police department where she went to report what had happened with Epstein, Clinton, Branson and Prince Andrew," she added.&nbsp;

In the emails, Ransome&nbsp;further alleged that&nbsp;former US president Trump “had sexual relations with [her friend] at Jeffrey’s NY mansion on regular occasions”.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Where is Nadia Marcinko, Epstein's 'Sex Slave' Turned Accomplice?

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Emery Celli Brinckerhoff &amp; Abady LLP, in a letter to the court, said that false allegations were made against Epstein’s lawyer Dershowitz, and added, “[Ransome’s] testimony was fabricated from whole cloth. Ms Ransome’s testimony also contains a slew of other incendiary claims concerning the sexual proclivities of Donald Trump, Bill Clinton and other prominent individuals. The emails are a necessary antidote to Ms Ransome’s deposition misstatements because they demonstrate she manifestly lacks credibility.”

Soon after,&nbsp;Ransome withdrew her claims and said, “I want to walk away from this … I shouldn’t have contacted you and I’m sorry I wasted your time. It’s not worth coming forward and I will never be heard anyhow and only bad things will happen as a consequence of me going public.”

“In a New Yorker report published in 2019, Ransome admitted that she had ‘invented’ the tapes. We can confirm that Sarah Ransome’s claims are baseless and unfounded," said a Virgin Group spokesperson.

In one of the email extracts, Ransome, aiming at Hillary Clinton, is reported to have said, "I will make sure that neither that evil b***h&nbsp;Hillary or that paedophile Trump gets elected. I will also make sure that everyone on the God damn planet sees that footage and photos and will release them to WikiLeaks by Sunday.”

(With inputs from agencies)

In the fresh batch of the unsealed court files of Jeffrey Epstein, it has been disclosed that the defence team of the sex offender tried to undermine the credibility of one of the witnesses by revealing that she made claims of Epstein keeping "sex tapes" of prominent personalities.

In the fresh batch of the unsealed court files of Jeffrey Epstein, it has been disclosed that the defence team of the sex offender tried to undermine the credibility of one of the witnesses by revealing that she made claims of Epstein keeping "sex tapes" of prominent personalities. As per allegations made by Sarah Ransome, the celebrities whose alleged sex tapes were recorded included Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton and Sir Richard Branson. A firm, which was representing Epstein’s lawyer Alan Dershowitz, had flagged her claims to demonstrate Ransome “manifestly lacks credibility”. No proof of the existence of any tapes was submitted by the court and Ransome had retracted the allegations soon after they were made initially. Also read: Google co-founder Sergey Brin visited Jeffrey Epstein's 'paedophile island', new court docs reveal A victim impact statement was given by Ransome before British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell was sentenced for sex trafficking. The court was provided with the emails in which she had allegedly claimed Prince Andrew, Clinton and Branson were filmed by the child sex offender. Serious accusations were also made against the former US president Donald Trump by Ransome. Jeffrey filmed the sex tapes: Ransome As per the newly-released documents, Ransome had written in the emails: “When my friend had sexual intercourse with Clinton, Prince Andrew and Richard Branson, sex tapes were in fact filmed on each separate occasion by Jeffrey. Thank God she managed to get a hold of some footage of the filmed sex tapes, which clearly identify the faces of Clinton, Prince Andrew and Branson having sexual intercourse with her. Frustratingly enough, Epstein was not seen in any of the footage but he was clever like that." “When my friend eventually had the courage to speak out and went to the police in 2008 to report what had happened, nothing was done and she was utterly humiliated by the police department where she went to report what had happened with Epstein, Clinton, Branson and Prince Andrew," she added. In the emails, Ransome further alleged that former US president Trump “had sexual relations with [her friend] at Jeffrey’s NY mansion on regular occasions”. Watch: Gravitas: Where is Nadia Marcinko, Epstein's 'Sex Slave' Turned Accomplice? Emery Celli Brinckerhoff & Abady LLP, in a letter to the court, said that false allegations were made against Epstein’s lawyer Dershowitz, and added, “[Ransome’s] testimony was fabricated from whole cloth. Ms Ransome’s testimony also contains a slew of other incendiary claims concerning the sexual proclivities of Donald Trump, Bill Clinton and other prominent individuals. The emails are a necessary antidote to Ms Ransome’s deposition misstatements because they demonstrate she manifestly lacks credibility.” Soon after, Ransome withdrew her claims and said, “I want to walk away from this … I shouldn’t have contacted you and I’m sorry I wasted your time. It’s not worth coming forward and I will never be heard anyhow and only bad things will happen as a consequence of me going public.” “In a New Yorker report published in 2019, Ransome admitted that she had ‘invented’ the tapes. We can confirm that Sarah Ransome’s claims are baseless and unfounded," said a Virgin Group spokesperson. In one of the email extracts, Ransome, aiming at Hillary Clinton, is reported to have said, "I will make sure that neither that evil b***h Hillary or that paedophile Trump gets elected. I will also make sure that everyone on the God damn planet sees that footage and photos and will release them to WikiLeaks by Sunday.” (With inputs from agencies)

Epstein files: Billionaire had ‘sex tapes’ of Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton and Trump, claimed witness

Lawmakers In the United States have reached a $1.4 trillion deal to avoid a partial government shutdown.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump has&nbsp;again made headlines by&nbsp;referring&nbsp;to the those&nbsp;jailed in connection to the 2021 Capitol riots as 'hostages'. The Republican also faces condemnation as he skipped signing an Illinois loyalty oath under which candidates promise to not overthrow the government.

Finally, WION Showbiz brings you an extensive coverage of the 2024 edition of the Golden Globe Awards.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-reach-14tn-deal-to-avoid-partial-government-shutdown-677598">US lawmakers reach $1.4tn deal to avoid partial government shutdown</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/03/370915-capitol.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

The US lawmakers on Sunday (Jan 7) reached a $1.4&nbsp;trillion deal over the total amount of spending for the rest of 2024 to avoid a partial government shutdown.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-jan-6-rioters-hostages-skips-signing-illinois-loyalty-oath-promising-to-not-overthrow-govt-677620">Trump calls Jan 6 rioters 'hostages,' skips signing Illinois loyalty oath promising to not overthrow govt</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404316-new-wion-2024-01-08t082201012.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Donald Trump is facing criticism from Joe Biden's 2024 election campaign for failing to sign a loyalty oath in Illinois, which says that the former president won't advocate to overthrow the government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeings-mid-air-door-blow-out-no-design-flaws-suspected-this-time-claim-investigators-677630">Boeing’s mid-air door blow out: No design flaws suspected ‘this time’, claim investigators</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/08/404324-untitled-design-2024-01-08t090115827.png?imwidth=3840" />United States aviation investigators tried to inspect the Boeing jets in Oregon on Sunday (Jan 7) and found out the reason that led to passenger jet’s door panel blowing out minutes after takeoff.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-golden-globe-awards-2024-full-list-of-winners-677596">Golden Globes 2024: Oppenheimer wins top honours; see full list of winners</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/27/369645-oppenheimer.png?imwidth=3840" />Hollywood's award season kicks off with 2024 Golden Globes. The revamped and&nbsp;reformed awards night is being hosted by Jo Koy and will aim to honour the best of cinema in 2023. Barbenheimer is leading the nominations this year and all eyes are on which film-between Barbie and Oppenheimer- will take the maximum globes home on Sunday night.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK: Labour scrutiny over closure of firm owned by PM Sunak's wife

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Lawmakers In the United States have reached a $1.4 trillion deal to avoid a partial government shutdown. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has again made headlines by referring to the those jailed in connection to the 2021 Capitol riots as 'hostages'.

Lawmakers In the United States have reached a $1.4 trillion deal to avoid a partial government shutdown. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has again made headlines by referring to the those jailed in connection to the 2021 Capitol riots as 'hostages'. The Republican also faces condemnation as he skipped signing an Illinois loyalty oath under which candidates promise to not overthrow the government. Finally, WION Showbiz brings you an extensive coverage of the 2024 edition of the Golden Globe Awards. Click on the headlines to read more US lawmakers reach $1.4tn deal to avoid partial government shutdown The US lawmakers on Sunday (Jan 7) reached a $1.4 trillion deal over the total amount of spending for the rest of 2024 to avoid a partial government shutdown. Trump calls Jan 6 rioters 'hostages,' skips signing Illinois loyalty oath promising to not overthrow govt Donald Trump is facing criticism from Joe Biden's 2024 election campaign for failing to sign a loyalty oath in Illinois, which says that the former president won't advocate to overthrow the government. Boeing’s mid-air door blow out: No design flaws suspected ‘this time’, claim investigators United States aviation investigators tried to inspect the Boeing jets in Oregon on Sunday (Jan 7) and found out the reason that led to passenger jet’s door panel blowing out minutes after takeoff. Golden Globes 2024: Oppenheimer wins top honours; see full list of winners Hollywood's award season kicks off with 2024 Golden Globes. The revamped and reformed awards night is being hosted by Jo Koy and will aim to honour the best of cinema in 2023. Barbenheimer is leading the nominations this year and all eyes are on which film-between Barbie and Oppenheimer- will take the maximum globes home on Sunday night. Watch | UK: Labour scrutiny over closure of firm owned by PM Sunak's wife

Morning news brief: Trump calls Jan 6 rioters 'hostages', Golden Globe Awards, and more

Donald Trump is facing criticism from Joe Biden's 2024 election campaign for failing to sign a loyalty oath in Illinois, which says that the former president won't advocate overthrowing the government.

Supposedly downplaying his role in the Jan 6 Capitol Hill siege, Donald Trump, on the third anniversary of the riots, demanded that the Biden administration free those prosecuted for storming the government building in 2021.

Speaking at a campaign event in Iowa on Saturday (Jan 6), Trump called those jailed over charges relating to the attack "hostages" and alleged the government had mistreated them.

<h2>Illinois loyalty oath</h2>

In the US state of Illinois, there's a ballot tradition, whereby candidates pledge against advocating the overthrow of the government.

The loyalty oath is a time-honoured part of the election process in the state. However, it was missing from Trump's package of ballot-access paperwork&nbsp;the Republican submitted on Thursday (Jan 4), reports WBEZ/Chicago Sun-Times.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-faces-370mn-in-potential-payments-to-new-york-state-in-real-estate-fraud-case-677080">Trump faces $370 million in penalty demand to New York state in civil fraud case</a>

Condemning Trump, Biden's campaign spokesperson Michael Tyler in a statement on Saturday said: "For the entirety of our nation's history, presidents have put their hand on the Bible and sworn to protect and uphold the Constitution of the United States—and Donald Trump can't bring himself to sign a piece of paper saying he won't attempt a coup to overthrow our government."

"We know he's deadly serious because three years ago today he tried and failed to do exactly that."

As per the Guardian, Trump signed this voluntary oath in his previous presidential runs — 2016 and 2020.

"This is the same man who thinks American troops who died protecting the ideals outlined in the Constitution are suckers and losers – yet calls the convicted felons who violently assaulted and killed police officers on January 6th 'hostages'. He can't fathom putting anything – our country, our principles, or the wellbeing and safety of the American people – above his own quest for retribution and power," remarked Tyler.

Responding to Tyler's statement, Trump's spokesperson Steven Cheung said: "President Trump will once again take the oath of office on January 20th, 2025, and will swear 'to faithfully execute the office of President of the United States and will to the best of my ability preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.'"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-to-rule-if-trump-can-run-for-president-in-2024-677031">US Supreme Court to rule if Trump can run for president in 2024</a>

Incumbent Joe Biden and another major Republican candidate, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, have both signed the loyalty oath.

<h2>'Hostage' rioters</h2>

Calling those jailed in the wake of the Jan 6 attack on Capitol Hill 'hostages', Trump during a campaign event in Clinton, Iowa, argued that they should be freed.

"They've suffered enough," he said, adding, "I call them hostages. Some people call them prisoners."

"I got indicted because I challenged the crooked election," said the ex-president, who continues to claim that his 2020 election loss to Biden was the result of "fraud".

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump is facing criticism from Joe Biden's 2024 election campaign for failing to sign a loyalty oath in Illinois, which says that the former president won't advocate overthrowing the government.

Donald Trump is facing criticism from Joe Biden's 2024 election campaign for failing to sign a loyalty oath in Illinois, which says that the former president won't advocate overthrowing the government. Supposedly downplaying his role in the Jan 6 Capitol Hill siege, Donald Trump, on the third anniversary of the riots, demanded that the Biden administration free those prosecuted for storming the government building in 2021. Speaking at a campaign event in Iowa on Saturday (Jan 6), Trump called those jailed over charges relating to the attack "hostages" and alleged the government had mistreated them. Illinois loyalty oath In the US state of Illinois, there's a ballot tradition, whereby candidates pledge against advocating the overthrow of the government. The loyalty oath is a time-honoured part of the election process in the state. However, it was missing from Trump's package of ballot-access paperwork the Republican submitted on Thursday (Jan 4), reports WBEZ/Chicago Sun-Times. Also read | Trump faces $370 million in penalty demand to New York state in civil fraud case Condemning Trump, Biden's campaign spokesperson Michael Tyler in a statement on Saturday said: "For the entirety of our nation's history, presidents have put their hand on the Bible and sworn to protect and uphold the Constitution of the United States—and Donald Trump can't bring himself to sign a piece of paper saying he won't attempt a coup to overthrow our government." "We know he's deadly serious because three years ago today he tried and failed to do exactly that." As per the Guardian, Trump signed this voluntary oath in his previous presidential runs — 2016 and 2020. "This is the same man who thinks American troops who died protecting the ideals outlined in the Constitution are suckers and losers – yet calls the convicted felons who violently assaulted and killed police officers on January 6th 'hostages'. He can't fathom putting anything – our country, our principles, or the wellbeing and safety of the American people – above his own quest for retribution and power," remarked Tyler. Responding to Tyler's statement, Trump's spokesperson Steven Cheung said: "President Trump will once again take the oath of office on January 20th, 2025, and will swear 'to faithfully execute the office of President of the United States and will to the best of my ability preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.'" Also read | US Supreme Court to rule if Trump can run for president in 2024 Incumbent Joe Biden and another major Republican candidate, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, have both signed the loyalty oath. 'Hostage' rioters Calling those jailed in the wake of the Jan 6 attack on Capitol Hill 'hostages', Trump during a campaign event in Clinton, Iowa, argued that they should be freed. "They've suffered enough," he said, adding, "I call them hostages. Some people call them prisoners." "I got indicted because I challenged the crooked election," said the ex-president, who continues to claim that his 2020 election loss to Biden was the result of "fraud". (With inputs from agencies)

Trump calls Jan 6 rioters 'hostages,' skips signing Illinois loyalty oath promising to not overthrow govt

US President Joe Biden launched his harshest attack yet on Donald Trump as he kickstarted his 2024 reelection campaign Friday, accusing the Republican of echoing Nazi Germany and posing a threat to democracy.

US Presidential Elections: Joe Biden goes toe-to-toe in heated rhetoric against Donald Trump

US Presidential Election: Biden compares Trump to Nazis in 2024 campaign launch

President Joe Biden seeks to fire up his 2024 campaign with a major speech warning that democracy is at risk from Donald Trump. A day before the third anniversary of the January 6 attack on the US Capitol, Joe Biden delivered a pointed speech to warn voters against re-electing Donald Trump.

US Presidential Elections: War of words between Biden & Trump heats up

The US Supreme Court on Friday (Jan 5) agreed to hear former President Donald Trump's appeal after he was barred from Colorado's Republican primary ballot. Colorado Supreme Court on December 19 last year disqualified Trump from the state's primary based on the 14th Amendment, citing his alleged involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack.

The justices have expedited the process, scheduling oral arguments for February 8, well ahead of the Colorado Republican primary slated for March 5. Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination, filed his appeal on Wednesday (Jan 4).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-urges-us-supreme-court-to-summarily-reverse-colorado-presidential-primary-ballot-ban-676361">Donald Trump urges US Supreme Court to 'summarily reverse' Colorado presidential primary ballot ban</a>

The Colorado Supreme Court's decision, in response to a challenge by Republican and unaffiliated voters, found Trump ineligible under the constitutional provision barring those who "engaged in insurrection or rebellion" from holding public office. The US Supreme Court has not yet addressed a separate appeal from the Colorado Republican Party on the same matter.

<h2>Potential advantage for Donald Trump?</h2>

The legal battle has put the US Supreme Court, with its conservative majority including three Trump-appointed justices, into a highly charged political dispute.&nbsp;

Detractors aim to thwart Trump's campaign to reclaim the presidency, while his supporters decry the efforts as election interference.

Trump's spokesperson, Steven Cheung, applauded the decision, and claimed that the disqualification attempts were a "well-funded effort by left-wing political activists."

<h2>What does it mean</h2>

The Colorado case not only poses challenges to Trump's presidential aspirations but also places the Supreme Court in a precarious position. The outcome will likely influence wider efforts to disqualify Trump from other state ballots, with implications reaching beyond Colorado and Maine, where similar legal battles are underway.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Rewind 2023: This year saw Trump rising from the ashes

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The Colorado ruling marks the first instance of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment being used to deem a presidential candidate ineligible. Trump's legal team argues that this is an unprecedented judicial intervention in preventing voters from casting ballots for a major-party presidential candidate.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Supreme Court on Friday (Jan 5) agreed to hear former President Donald Trump's appeal after he was barred from Colorado's Republican primary ballot. Colorado Supreme Court on December 19 last year disqualified Trump from the state's primary based on the 14th Amendment, citing his alleged involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack.

The US Supreme Court on Friday (Jan 5) agreed to hear former President Donald Trump's appeal after he was barred from Colorado's Republican primary ballot. Colorado Supreme Court on December 19 last year disqualified Trump from the state's primary based on the 14th Amendment, citing his alleged involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. The justices have expedited the process, scheduling oral arguments for February 8, well ahead of the Colorado Republican primary slated for March 5. Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination, filed his appeal on Wednesday (Jan 4). Also read | Donald Trump urges US Supreme Court to 'summarily reverse' Colorado presidential primary ballot ban The Colorado Supreme Court's decision, in response to a challenge by Republican and unaffiliated voters, found Trump ineligible under the constitutional provision barring those who "engaged in insurrection or rebellion" from holding public office. The US Supreme Court has not yet addressed a separate appeal from the Colorado Republican Party on the same matter. Potential advantage for Donald Trump? The legal battle has put the US Supreme Court, with its conservative majority including three Trump-appointed justices, into a highly charged political dispute. Detractors aim to thwart Trump's campaign to reclaim the presidency, while his supporters decry the efforts as election interference. Trump's spokesperson, Steven Cheung, applauded the decision, and claimed that the disqualification attempts were a "well-funded effort by left-wing political activists." What does it mean The Colorado case not only poses challenges to Trump's presidential aspirations but also places the Supreme Court in a precarious position. The outcome will likely influence wider efforts to disqualify Trump from other state ballots, with implications reaching beyond Colorado and Maine, where similar legal battles are underway. Also watch | WION Rewind 2023: This year saw Trump rising from the ashes × The Colorado ruling marks the first instance of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment being used to deem a presidential candidate ineligible. Trump's legal team argues that this is an unprecedented judicial intervention in preventing voters from casting ballots for a major-party presidential candidate. (With inputs from agencies)

US Supreme Court to rule if Trump can run for president in 2024

New York's attorney general is seeking $370 million from former president Donald Trump in a fraud case which has seen the real estate mogul accused of inflating the value of his properties, court documents showed Friday.

"Record evidence... supports disgorgement of $370 million, plus pre-judgment interest," said the filing, significantly more than the $250 million that New York Attorney General Letitia James previously said she would seek.

Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, and his two eldest sons are accused of fraudulently inflating the value of their real estate assets to receive more favourable bank loans and insurance terms.

The amount to be paid will be determined by the judge, Arthur Engoron, whom Trump has repeatedly attacked on social media.

It will be released in his final decision and order.

Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, lashed out at James, calling her "totally corrupt" and saying "I did nothing wrong."

"My financial statements are great &amp; very conservative," he said. "This case should never have been brought."

The former president will separately stand trial on March 4 in Washington in a federal case in which he is accused of seeking to upend the results of the 2020 election in a concerted effort that led to the violent January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol by his supporters.

Trump also faces federal charges for allegedly mishandling top secret documents after he left the White House, and has been charged with racketeering in Georgia on accusations that he tried to overturn the 2020 election results in the southern state.

New York's attorney general is seeking $370 million from former president Donald Trump in a fraud case which has seen the real estate mogul accused of inflating the value of his properties, court documents showed Friday.

New York's attorney general is seeking $370 million from former president Donald Trump in a fraud case which has seen the real estate mogul accused of inflating the value of his properties, court documents showed Friday. "Record evidence... supports disgorgement of $370 million, plus pre-judgment interest," said the filing, significantly more than the $250 million that New York Attorney General Letitia James previously said she would seek. Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, and his two eldest sons are accused of fraudulently inflating the value of their real estate assets to receive more favourable bank loans and insurance terms. The amount to be paid will be determined by the judge, Arthur Engoron, whom Trump has repeatedly attacked on social media. It will be released in his final decision and order. Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, lashed out at James, calling her "totally corrupt" and saying "I did nothing wrong." "My financial statements are great & very conservative," he said. "This case should never have been brought." The former president will separately stand trial on March 4 in Washington in a federal case in which he is accused of seeking to upend the results of the 2020 election in a concerted effort that led to the violent January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol by his supporters. Trump also faces federal charges for allegedly mishandling top secret documents after he left the White House, and has been charged with racketeering in Georgia on accusations that he tried to overturn the 2020 election results in the southern state.

Trump faces $370 million in penalty demand to New York state in civil fraud case

Businesses tied to former United States president Donald Trump got at least $7.8 million in foreign payments from 20 countries when he was serving as president, said Democratic congressional investigators, reported news agency Reuters on Thursday (Jan 4).

Businesses tied to former United States president Donald Trump got at least $7.8 million in foreign payments from 20 countries when he was serving as president, said Democratic congressional investigators, reported news agency Reuters on Thursday (Jan 4). In a 156-page report, US House of Representatives Oversight Committee Democrats said, "These countries spent — often lavishly — on apartments and hotel stays at Donald Trump's properties — personally enriching President Trump while he made foreign policy decisions connected to their policy agendas with far-reaching ramifications for the United States." The countries included China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Malaysia. China spent over $5.5 million at Trump properties The report said that the Chinese government and its state-owned entities spent more than $5.5 million at properties owned by Trump when he was president. This is the largest total of payments made by a foreign nation to date. A report by CNN on Thursday said that these payments included millions of dollars from the Chinese embassy in the US, a state-owned Chinese bank accused by the US Justice Department of helping North Korea evade sanctions and a state-owned Chinese air transit company. Also read: Trump's support remains resilient, while one in three Americans now question Biden's 2020 win: Poll Trump's campaign has not commented on the matter so far. The 77-year-old Republican, who is a presidential hopeful, is facing 91 felony counts across four criminal cases. Shortly after Trump became president in 2016, Congress began investigating conflicts of interest and his potential violations of the emoluments clause of the American Constitution, which bars the acceptance of presents from foreign states by a person holding federal elected office without congressional consent. Reuters reported that the investigation led to a lengthy court dispute, which ended in a settlement in 2022. When Republicans took control of the House in 2023, the committee stopped requiring Trump's accounting firm to produce documents and a district court ended the litigation. 'Trump has legitimate businesses, Bidens do not' Reacting to the report's findings, House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer said that it was beyond parody that Democrats continued their obsession with Trump. "Former President Trump has legitimate businesses but the Bidens do not," Comer said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump businesses got $7.8 million in foreign payments when he was prez; China paid over $5.5 million

Donald Trump businesses received millions in foreign payments while he was in office.

Donald Trump businesses received millions in foreign payments while he was in office

Former President Donald Trump appealed to the US supreme court on Wednesday to undo the Colorado ruling that removed him from the ballot in the western state under the 14th amendment to the US constitution.

Trump asks US top court to review Colorado ruling barring him from ballot

As the countdown begins for the US Presidential race, trouble is mounting for Donald Trump. Now, Trump has asked the US Supreme Court to review Colorado ruling.

US: Former Pres Trump asks Supreme Court to review Colorado ruling, bars Trump from state's ballot

Donald Trump, the former US president, on Wednesday (Jan 3rd) appealed to the country's highest court to lift a Colorado state ban that would keep him off the presidential primary ballot in the western US state.

This overture to the US Supreme Court comes just a day after the Republican candidate filed an appeal with the Maine Superior Court against a similar decision.

<h2>Toss out the ban</h2>

In a 43-page filing, attorneys for Trump asked the conservative-dominated US Supreme Court to "summarily reverse the Colorado Supreme Court's ruling."

They claim that if the ruling is allowed to stand, it "will mark the first time in the history of the United States that the judiciary has prevented voters from casting ballots for the leading major-party presidential candidate."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-appeals-maines-biased-decision-makers-presidential-primary-ballot-ban-676039">Donald Trump appeals Maine's 'biased' decision maker's presidential primary ballot ban</a>

The appeal further states that "The question of eligibility to serve as President of the United States is properly reserved for Congress, not the state courts, to consider and decide."

Previously, on Tuesday (Jan 2nd) Trump urged the Maine Superior Court to toss out a similar ban by Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows.&nbsp;In her decision, Bellows said that the January 6 Capitol attack "occurred at the behest of, and with the knowledge and support of, the outgoing president," as quoted by AFP.

Calling Bellows, a Democrat, a "biased decision maker," he alleged that she "acted in an arbitrary and capricious manner."

<h2>Two strikes against Trump</h2>

Last week, Maine became the second US state to bar Trump from appearing on the presidential primary ballot over his role in the January 6, 2021, assault on the US Capitol by his supporters. Before that, on December 19, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled that Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, is ineligible to appear on the presidential primary ballot.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-a-weak-and-feeble-man-who-could-end-american-democracy-as-we-know-it-warn-his-former-staff-675547">Trump ‘a weak and feeble man’ who could ‘end American democracy as we know it,’ warn his former staffers</a>

The western state had invoked the 14th Amendment's "insurrection clause" which the state's supreme court said was violated by Donald Trump.

Section Three of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution bars anyone from holding public office if they engaged in "insurrection or rebellion" after once pledging to support and defend the Constitution.

Trump also faces similar 14th Amendment challenges questioning his&nbsp;eligibility in other US states. Recently, California, Minnesota, and Michigan ruled that the Republican leader should stay on their ballots.

<h2>Four Minnesota GOP candidates endorse Trump for US President</h2>

On Wednesday (Jan 3) Representative Tom Emmer, a Republican, currently serving as US House Majority Whip, endorsed Trump in the 2024 presidential race.&nbsp;

In a statement, he said that the endorsement was in part because Trump is the Republican party's "clear frontrunner".

"Democrats have made clear they will use every tool in their arsenal to try and keep Joe Biden and his failed policies in power. We cannot let them," said Emmer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-support-remains-resilient-while-one-in-three-americans-question-bidens-win-poll-676189">Trump's support remains resilient, while one in three Americans now question Biden's 2020 win: Poll</a>

"It's time for Republicans to unite behind our party's clear frontrunner, which is why I am proud to endorse Donald J. Trump for President," he added.

As per CBS News, Emmer was joined by three other Republican Party members of Minnesota's congressional delegation: Representatives Brad Finstad, Michelle Fischbach and Pete Stauber, who said that Trump "has what it takes to get our country back on track".

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump, the former US president, on Wednesday (Jan 3rd) appealed to the country's highest court to lift a Colorado state ban that would keep him off the presidential primary ballot in the western US state.

Donald Trump, the former US president, on Wednesday (Jan 3rd) appealed to the country's highest court to lift a Colorado state ban that would keep him off the presidential primary ballot in the western US state. This overture to the US Supreme Court comes just a day after the Republican candidate filed an appeal with the Maine Superior Court against a similar decision. Toss out the ban In a 43-page filing, attorneys for Trump asked the conservative-dominated US Supreme Court to "summarily reverse the Colorado Supreme Court's ruling." They claim that if the ruling is allowed to stand, it "will mark the first time in the history of the United States that the judiciary has prevented voters from casting ballots for the leading major-party presidential candidate." Also read | Donald Trump appeals Maine's 'biased' decision maker's presidential primary ballot ban The appeal further states that "The question of eligibility to serve as President of the United States is properly reserved for Congress, not the state courts, to consider and decide." Previously, on Tuesday (Jan 2nd) Trump urged the Maine Superior Court to toss out a similar ban by Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. In her decision, Bellows said that the January 6 Capitol attack "occurred at the behest of, and with the knowledge and support of, the outgoing president," as quoted by AFP. Calling Bellows, a Democrat, a "biased decision maker," he alleged that she "acted in an arbitrary and capricious manner." Two strikes against Trump Last week, Maine became the second US state to bar Trump from appearing on the presidential primary ballot over his role in the January 6, 2021, assault on the US Capitol by his supporters. Before that, on December 19, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled that Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, is ineligible to appear on the presidential primary ballot. Also read | Trump ‘a weak and feeble man’ who could ‘end American democracy as we know it,’ warn his former staffers The western state had invoked the 14th Amendment's "insurrection clause" which the state's supreme court said was violated by Donald Trump. Section Three of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution bars anyone from holding public office if they engaged in "insurrection or rebellion" after once pledging to support and defend the Constitution. Trump also faces similar 14th Amendment challenges questioning his eligibility in other US states. Recently, California, Minnesota, and Michigan ruled that the Republican leader should stay on their ballots. Four Minnesota GOP candidates endorse Trump for US President On Wednesday (Jan 3) Representative Tom Emmer, a Republican, currently serving as US House Majority Whip, endorsed Trump in the 2024 presidential race. In a statement, he said that the endorsement was in part because Trump is the Republican party's "clear frontrunner". "Democrats have made clear they will use every tool in their arsenal to try and keep Joe Biden and his failed policies in power. We cannot let them," said Emmer. Also read | Trump's support remains resilient, while one in three Americans now question Biden's 2020 win: Poll "It's time for Republicans to unite behind our party's clear frontrunner, which is why I am proud to endorse Donald J. Trump for President," he added. As per CBS News, Emmer was joined by three other Republican Party members of Minnesota's congressional delegation: Representatives Brad Finstad, Michelle Fischbach and Pete Stauber, who said that Trump "has what it takes to get our country back on track". (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump urges US Supreme Court to 'summarily reverse' Colorado presidential primary ballot ban

Trump asks US Supreme Court to overturn Colorado ruling removing him from ballot

As the countdown begins for the US Presidential race, trouble is mounting for Donald Trump. Maine's top official had removed Trump from 2024 primary ballot. Trump calls election official a 'biased decision maker.'

US: Donald Trump appeals disqualification from Maine primary ballot

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