Following the vote on Tuesday, McCarthy declared that he would not seek reelection to the position that required an unprecedented 15 rounds of voting to secure in January. In an interview with conservative radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt on Monday, McCarthy backed off, stating, "I will do whatever the conference wants."

US: GOP braces for messy fight over speakership

The stage is set for the second Republican debate as the race for the White House intensifies.

Race for white house: 7 republican candidates qualify for 2nd presidential debate

<p>United States House Republicans plan to hold the first hearing in the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden next week, said a spokesperson for the GOP-led panel, on Tuesday (September 19).</p>

<p>This comes a week after House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy said he is directing a House committee to open an impeachment inquiry into the Democratic president over his family’s business dealings.</p>

<h2><strong>When will the hearing take place?</strong></h2>

<p>The hearing which will reportedly take place on September 28, is set to “focus on constitutional and legal questions surrounding the President’s involvement in corruption and abuse of public office,” said a spokesperson for the House Oversight Committee, as quoted by the New York Post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Oversight Committee will continue to follow the evidence and money trail to provide the transparency and accountability that Americans demand from their government,” the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-house-republican-mccarthy-calls-for-prez-bidens-impeachment-inquiry-white-house-slams-move-635383">US House Speaker McCarthy orders Prez Biden's impeachment inquiry; White House slams move</a></strong></p>

<p>Oversight Chair James Comer, ahead of the hearing, said that he plans to subpoena the bank records of the US president's&nbsp;son Hunter Biden and his brother James Biden. “We’ll be issuing the details hopefully by the end of the day or first thing in the morning,” said Comer.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the impeachment inquiry about?</strong></h2>

<p>McCarthy said last Tuesday (Sep 12) that the House Oversight Committee’s investigation so far has found a “culture of corruption” around the Biden family, in reference to the probe sought by Republicans into dealings of the incumbent president’s son, Hunter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also alleged that the Democratic president had lied to the American people about his son’s foreign business dealings when he was serving as the vice president under Barack Obama. The issue has also been a constant target for the GOP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Republicans, who now narrowly control the House, have repeatedly accused Biden of profiting from his son’s foreign business ventures while he served as vice president, but have not reportedly provided any substantial evidence for their claim.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-ramps-up-efforts-against-potential-impeachment-inquiry-against-biden-632445">White House ramps up efforts against potential impeachment inquiry against Biden</a></strong></p>

<p>When asked if the hearing would reveal new evidence, Comer, a Republican from the US state of Kentucky said, “I think that some of you need to have a refresher course on the existing evidence, so we’ll probably rehash some of that if for no other purpose (than) to help educate the Washington, D.C., press corps,” in an apparent jibe at the media, as quoted by The Hill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The inquiry also comes ahead of the 2024 presidential elections. Notably, the&nbsp;House, then controlled by Democrats, impeached former US president and now Republican frontrunner Donald Trump in 2019 and 2021.</p>

<p>While he was acquitted both times after the impeachment resolution failed to gain a majority in the Senate, it was also previously reported that some hardline Republicans had threatened to remove McCarthy as the speaker of the House if he did not back impeachment efforts against Biden.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


United States House Republicans plan to hold the first hearing in the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden next week, said a spokesperson for the GOP-led panel, on Tuesday (September 19).

United States House Republicans plan to hold the first hearing in the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden next week, said a spokesperson for the GOP-led panel, on Tuesday (September 19). This comes a week after House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy said he is directing a House committee to open an impeachment inquiry into the Democratic president over his family’s business dealings. When will the hearing take place? The hearing which will reportedly take place on September 28, is set to “focus on constitutional and legal questions surrounding the President’s involvement in corruption and abuse of public office,” said a spokesperson for the House Oversight Committee, as quoted by the New York Post. “The Oversight Committee will continue to follow the evidence and money trail to provide the transparency and accountability that Americans demand from their government,” the statement added. ALSO READ | US House Speaker McCarthy orders Prez Biden's impeachment inquiry; White House slams move Oversight Chair James Comer, ahead of the hearing, said that he plans to subpoena the bank records of the US president's son Hunter Biden and his brother James Biden. “We’ll be issuing the details hopefully by the end of the day or first thing in the morning,” said Comer. What is the impeachment inquiry about? McCarthy said last Tuesday (Sep 12) that the House Oversight Committee’s investigation so far has found a “culture of corruption” around the Biden family, in reference to the probe sought by Republicans into dealings of the incumbent president’s son, Hunter. He also alleged that the Democratic president had lied to the American people about his son’s foreign business dealings when he was serving as the vice president under Barack Obama. The issue has also been a constant target for the GOP. Republicans, who now narrowly control the House, have repeatedly accused Biden of profiting from his son’s foreign business ventures while he served as vice president, but have not reportedly provided any substantial evidence for their claim. ALSO READ | White House ramps up efforts against potential impeachment inquiry against Biden When asked if the hearing would reveal new evidence, Comer, a Republican from the US state of Kentucky said, “I think that some of you need to have a refresher course on the existing evidence, so we’ll probably rehash some of that if for no other purpose (than) to help educate the Washington, D.C., press corps,” in an apparent jibe at the media, as quoted by The Hill. The inquiry also comes ahead of the 2024 presidential elections. Notably, the House, then controlled by Democrats, impeached former US president and now Republican frontrunner Donald Trump in 2019 and 2021. While he was acquitted both times after the impeachment resolution failed to gain a majority in the Senate, it was also previously reported that some hardline Republicans had threatened to remove McCarthy as the speaker of the House if he did not back impeachment efforts against Biden. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US House Republicans to hold first impeachment hearing against President Biden next week

<p>In a recent interview to the NBC, former US president and 2024 presidential contender Donald Trump said he likes “the concept” of having a woman by his side as his running mate.</p>

<p>“I like the concept, but we’re going to pick the best person,” Trump replied to the NBC moderator Kristen Welker. “But I do like the concept, yes.”</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-states-issue-alert-over-west-nile-virus-after-new-york-city-reports-death-637133">US: States issue alert over West Nile virus after New York City reports death</a></p>

<p>South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem recently endorsed Trump at a rally in the state, fueling speculation that she could be a likely contender for his potential running mate.</p>

<p>Trump said she would be someone he'd consider choosing, calling her "fantastic."</p>

<p>"She’s been a great governor," he told Welker. "She gave me a very full-throated endorsement, a beautiful endorsement actually.”</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Kristi Noem, South Dakota governor, likely to be Trump’s running mate?</strong></h2>

<p>Kristi Noem is the Republican Governor of US state South Dakota. In terms of politics, she has been known for promoting family values and traditional marriage ideals in her addresses to the people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Being a Republican, she is a natural critic of Democratic President Joe Biden and his energy policies, arguing that she aims to see America less dependent on foreign oil.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Kristi Noem’s alleged affair with Trump’s advisor</strong></p>

<p>What is brewing more than Kristi being Trump’s running mate is her alleged affair with Corey Lewandowski, a former Trump aide.</p>

<p>The Daily Mail published an explosive article soon after Trump hinted Kristi as his running mate.</p>

<p>It reported that Kristi and Corey have been in a secret affair for years, since 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-has-his-say-on-mexico-alien-corpse-saga-637126">Elon Musk has his say on Mexico alien corpses saga</a></p>

<p>Kristi’s spokesperson told the tabloid, “This is so predictable that you would attack Governor Noem less than a week after she endorsed Donald J. Trump as the 47th President of the United States.” It does not deny any allegations of affair.</p>

<p>Kristi has been married to Bryon Noem since 1992 and have three children.</p>

<p>Corey has been married to Alison since 2005, and the couple have four children.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/everything-will-be-forgiven-how-the-us-got-pakistans-support-for-ukraine-after-aiding-imran-khans-ouster-637134">'Everything will be forgiven': How the US got Pakistan's support for Ukraine after aiding Imran Khan's ouster</a></p>

<p>Kristi's alleged affair is in sharp contrast to what she preaches.</p>

<p>Speculations about affair between Kristi and Corey were published in the past but the former had shut down those reports via Twitter post in September 2021.</p>

<p>“These rumours are total garbage and a disgusting lie," Kristi wrote on Twitter.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In a recent interview to the NBC, former US president and 2024 presidential contender Donald Trump said he likes “the concept” of having a woman by his side as his running mate.

In a recent interview to the NBC, former US president and 2024 presidential contender Donald Trump said he likes “the concept” of having a woman by his side as his running mate. “I like the concept, but we’re going to pick the best person,” Trump replied to the NBC moderator Kristen Welker. “But I do like the concept, yes.” Also Read | US: States issue alert over West Nile virus after New York City reports death South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem recently endorsed Trump at a rally in the state, fueling speculation that she could be a likely contender for his potential running mate. Trump said she would be someone he'd consider choosing, calling her "fantastic." "She’s been a great governor," he told Welker. "She gave me a very full-throated endorsement, a beautiful endorsement actually.” Who is Kristi Noem, South Dakota governor, likely to be Trump’s running mate? Kristi Noem is the Republican Governor of US state South Dakota. In terms of politics, she has been known for promoting family values and traditional marriage ideals in her addresses to the people. Being a Republican, she is a natural critic of Democratic President Joe Biden and his energy policies, arguing that she aims to see America less dependent on foreign oil. Kristi Noem’s alleged affair with Trump’s advisor What is brewing more than Kristi being Trump’s running mate is her alleged affair with Corey Lewandowski, a former Trump aide. The Daily Mail published an explosive article soon after Trump hinted Kristi as his running mate. It reported that Kristi and Corey have been in a secret affair for years, since 2019. Also Read | Elon Musk has his say on Mexico alien corpses saga Kristi’s spokesperson told the tabloid, “This is so predictable that you would attack Governor Noem less than a week after she endorsed Donald J. Trump as the 47th President of the United States.” It does not deny any allegations of affair. Kristi has been married to Bryon Noem since 1992 and have three children. Corey has been married to Alison since 2005, and the couple have four children. Also Read | 'Everything will be forgiven': How the US got Pakistan's support for Ukraine after aiding Imran Khan's ouster Kristi's alleged affair is in sharp contrast to what she preaches. Speculations about affair between Kristi and Corey were published in the past but the former had shut down those reports via Twitter post in September 2021. “These rumours are total garbage and a disgusting lie," Kristi wrote on Twitter. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Kristi Noem, South Dakota governor likely to be Trump's running mate for 2024 elections?

The GOP has conducted its first presidential primary debate which saw eight candidates often engage in heated exchanges.

First GOP Presidential primary debate

Vivek Ramaswamy 'stole the show' at the Republican party's first primary debate. The 38-year-old's anti-woke, & anti-climate change remarks are going viral. Who exactly is he? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Vivek Ramaswamy: The Indian-origin entrepreneur taking on Trump | GOP Primary Debate

<p>The stage is set for the Republican Party’s first presidential debate ahead of the polls slated to be held next year. The debate will be attended by eight candidates, and notably, two of them—Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy—are of Indian origin.</p>

<p>Candidates will be discussing a range of urgent topics and the discourse will provide insight into each candidate's focal points and strategies.</p>

<h2><strong>When will the GOP debate take place?</strong></h2>

<p>The debate is scheduled for Wednesday (local time) at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It will commence at 9 pm ET (6:30 a.m. Thursday, IST) and will be a two-hour event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The event will be exclusively covered by Fox News. Hosts Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum will moderate the debate, featuring eight Republican candidates participating in the GOP's first presidential debate.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump to be absent</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, former President Donald Trump will be absent from the Republican debate stage. He previously mentioned limited political intent to attend, citing his popularity among Republican voters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nevertheless, Trump's influence is still expected to dominate the conversation, both within and outside the debate.</p>

<h2><br />
Vivek’s magical rise</h2>

<p>Vivek Ramaswamy, a 38-year-old tech entrepreneur new to politics, has garnered attention in the lead-up to the primaries. Ramaswamy ranks second, following Trump and tied with Ron DeSantis, in the Republican nomination polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Trump is not attending the debate but that doesn’t give a free hand to other candidates to attack the former president.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US presidential election 2024: Trump expected to skip GOP debate</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-presidential-election-2024-trump-expected-to-skip-gop-debate-627151/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Experts predict that other candidates will avoid saying a word against Trump to avoid alienating his supporters, whose votes are crucial for securing the nomination. This reaffirms that Trump’s popularity is quite unique and even his opponents in the GOP acknowledge that.</p>

<p>Polls reveal that most Republicans perceive the charges against Trump as politically motivated, adding complexity to the topic for his opponents.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-before-major-gop-debate-vivek-ramaswamy-shares-video-of-his-topless-tennis-session-628024"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Watch: Before major GOP debate, Vivek Ramaswamy shares video of his topless tennis session</strong></a></p>

<p>"He's still in the room because every Republican primary candidate is going to have to take a position on the former president and his legal troubles," Jeanette Hoffman, a Republican political consultant said. "It's a bit of a catch-22 for some candidates. They don't want Trump to be the candidate but they also can't be the one to take him out," he added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The stage is set for the Republican Party’s first presidential debate ahead of the polls slated to be held next year. The debate will be attended by eight candidates, and notably, two of them—Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy—are of Indian origin.

The stage is set for the Republican Party’s first presidential debate ahead of the polls slated to be held next year. The debate will be attended by eight candidates, and notably, two of them—Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy—are of Indian origin. Candidates will be discussing a range of urgent topics and the discourse will provide insight into each candidate's focal points and strategies. When will the GOP debate take place? The debate is scheduled for Wednesday (local time) at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It will commence at 9 pm ET (6:30 a.m. Thursday, IST) and will be a two-hour event. The event will be exclusively covered by Fox News. Hosts Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum will moderate the debate, featuring eight Republican candidates participating in the GOP's first presidential debate. Trump to be absent Notably, former President Donald Trump will be absent from the Republican debate stage. He previously mentioned limited political intent to attend, citing his popularity among Republican voters. Nevertheless, Trump's influence is still expected to dominate the conversation, both within and outside the debate. Vivek’s magical rise Vivek Ramaswamy, a 38-year-old tech entrepreneur new to politics, has garnered attention in the lead-up to the primaries. Ramaswamy ranks second, following Trump and tied with Ron DeSantis, in the Republican nomination polls. Meanwhile, Trump is not attending the debate but that doesn’t give a free hand to other candidates to attack the former president. Watch: US presidential election 2024: Trump expected to skip GOP debate × Experts predict that other candidates will avoid saying a word against Trump to avoid alienating his supporters, whose votes are crucial for securing the nomination. This reaffirms that Trump’s popularity is quite unique and even his opponents in the GOP acknowledge that. Polls reveal that most Republicans perceive the charges against Trump as politically motivated, adding complexity to the topic for his opponents. Also read: Watch: Before major GOP debate, Vivek Ramaswamy shares video of his topless tennis session "He's still in the room because every Republican primary candidate is going to have to take a position on the former president and his legal troubles," Jeanette Hoffman, a Republican political consultant said. "It's a bit of a catch-22 for some candidates. They don't want Trump to be the candidate but they also can't be the one to take him out," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

GOP primary debate: 8 candidates to take part, Trump to be absent

<p>Vivek Ramaswamy, a multimillionaire former biotech executive, called the climate change a 'hoax' as GOP candidates on Thursday (August 24) argued over global warming and other climate-related issues during the first Republican debate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaswamy said, "I'm the only candidate on stage who isn't bought and paid for, so I can say this. Climate change is a hoax… The reality is more people are dying of bad climate change policies than they are of actual climate change."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Climate change is evident in the form of long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, mainly caused by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-republican-presidential-debate-live-8-gop-biggies-take-centrestae-while-trump-skips-primary-628516">First Republican presidential debate LIVE</a></strong></p>

<p>Amid urgent calls for global support to tackle the issues, the crowd booed Ramaswamy's remarks. He was slammed by former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who compared the entrepreneur to ChatGPT and former President Obama.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 38-year-old Ramaswamy was born in Ohio to immigrant parents from southern India. He was raised in the Hindu faith by his parents but went to a Catholic high school. He earned a biology degree at Harvard University before moving on to Yale Law School.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tucker-carlson-interview-former-prez-justifies-skipping-republican-debate-628548">Trump-Tucker Carlson interview: Former prez justifies skipping Republican debate</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>He has been criticised also as he has become a fierce conservative. In his 2021 bestseller 'Woke, Inc.', Ramaswamy decries&nbsp;decisions by some big companies to base business strategy around social justice and climate change concerns and lambasts&nbsp;"wokeism" as an insidious influence on hard work, capitalism, religious faith and patriotism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina Gov. called for China and India to cut emissions. She said, "First of all, we do care about clean air, clean water. We want to see that taken care of, but there is a right way to do it. The right way is first of all, yes, is climate change real? Yes, it is. But if you want to go and really change the environment, we need to start telling China and India that they have to lower their emissions."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/absent-donald-trump-still-expected-to-remain-in-the-spotlight-628545/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Ramaswamy on the Ukraine war&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ramaswamy also said that if he was elected president, he would not support an increase in aid to Ukraine and called US support of Ukraine "disastrous". He added that the resources that are going to Kyiv should instead be used domestically.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said: "This is disastrous we are protecting against an invasion across somebody else's border when we should use those same military resources to prevent the invasion across our southern border here in the United States of America."&nbsp;</p>

<p>His comments were slammed by Haley, who said she would support more funding for the war in Ukraine. "He wants to hand Ukraine to Russia. He wants to let China eat Taiwan. He wants to go and stop funding Israel. You don't do that to friends. What you do instead is you have the backs of your friends," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Vivek Ramaswamy, a multimillionaire former biotech executive, called the climate change a 'hoax' as GOP candidates on Thursday (August 24) argued over global warming and other climate-related issues during the first Republican debate.

Vivek Ramaswamy, a multimillionaire former biotech executive, called the climate change a 'hoax' as GOP candidates on Thursday (August 24) argued over global warming and other climate-related issues during the first Republican debate. Ramaswamy said, "I'm the only candidate on stage who isn't bought and paid for, so I can say this. Climate change is a hoax… The reality is more people are dying of bad climate change policies than they are of actual climate change." Climate change is evident in the form of long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, mainly caused by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels. First Republican presidential debate LIVE Amid urgent calls for global support to tackle the issues, the crowd booed Ramaswamy's remarks. He was slammed by former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who compared the entrepreneur to ChatGPT and former President Obama. The 38-year-old Ramaswamy was born in Ohio to immigrant parents from southern India. He was raised in the Hindu faith by his parents but went to a Catholic high school. He earned a biology degree at Harvard University before moving on to Yale Law School. Also read: Trump-Tucker Carlson interview: Former prez justifies skipping Republican debate He has been criticised also as he has become a fierce conservative. In his 2021 bestseller 'Woke, Inc.', Ramaswamy decries decisions by some big companies to base business strategy around social justice and climate change concerns and lambasts "wokeism" as an insidious influence on hard work, capitalism, religious faith and patriotism. Meanwhile, Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina Gov. called for China and India to cut emissions. She said, "First of all, we do care about clean air, clean water. We want to see that taken care of, but there is a right way to do it. The right way is first of all, yes, is climate change real? Yes, it is. But if you want to go and really change the environment, we need to start telling China and India that they have to lower their emissions." Watch this report × Ramaswamy on the Ukraine war Ramaswamy also said that if he was elected president, he would not support an increase in aid to Ukraine and called US support of Ukraine "disastrous". He added that the resources that are going to Kyiv should instead be used domestically. He said: "This is disastrous we are protecting against an invasion across somebody else's border when we should use those same military resources to prevent the invasion across our southern border here in the United States of America." His comments were slammed by Haley, who said she would support more funding for the war in Ukraine. "He wants to hand Ukraine to Russia. He wants to let China eat Taiwan. He wants to go and stop funding Israel. You don't do that to friends. What you do instead is you have the backs of your friends," she said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

GOP debate: Vivek Ramaswamy calls climate change a 'hoax', aid to Ukraine 'disastrous'

<p>Indian-American entrepreneur, Vivek Ramaswamy, has said that he would decline an offer to become the&nbsp;vice president in case he is unable to secure the GOP nomination in the 2024 elections. Speaking on Fox News, Ramaswamy said, “I’m not interested in a different position in the government."</p>

<p>“Frankly, I’d drive change through the private sector sooner than becoming number two or three in the federal government," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing remarks about his age, Ramaswamy, who just turned 38, challenged that he is too young to vie for the presidency, underscoring the urgency of taking action now.</p>

<p>Ramaswamy said that he and his wife reflected on the idea of waiting for gaining more experience before entering the presidential race. But he highlighted that the state of the country cannot afford such an approach.&nbsp;“My wife and I, we reflected on this: Should we wait 20 years, when our sons are out of the house when we might have some more experience?” Ramaswamy said adding,&nbsp;“The truth is, I don’t think we have 20 years left as a country if we just passively stand by and watch.”</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecowas-rejects-niger-coup-leaders-pitch-to-restore-civilian-rule-in-three-years-627364">ECOWAS rejects Niger coup leader's pledge to restore civilian rule in three years</a></p>

<p>Regarding the matter of age in presidential eligibility, Ramaswamy said that age should not be a limiting factor. He acknowledged that many older individuals possess sharp intellect and potential for impactful leadership except in the case of Joe Biden.</p>

<p>“They’re plenty of older people who are sharper than many people my age and may still yet have their best days ahead of them,” Ramaswamy said.</p>

<h2><strong>Rising GOP contender&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ramaswamy has been gaining ground in recent opinion polls in the Republican presidential primary.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-president-ramaphosa-calls-for-unsc-reform-sets-pitch-for-brics-expansion-ahead-of-summit-627366">South Africa's President Ramaphosa calls for UNSC reform, sets pitch for BRICS expansion ahead of summit</a></p>

<p>Notably recognised in conservative circles for his critique of environmental, social, and governance standards in business, Ramaswamy's decision to run for president has garnered much attention. Vivek Ramaswamy, whose parents hail from Kerala, was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. He completed his undergraduate studies at Harvard University and pursued a law degree from Yale University.</p>

<h2><strong>Lineup of Indian-origin Republican candidates</strong></h2>

<p>Vivek Ramaswamy is not the only Republican candidate of Indian origin in the race. Nikki Haley, the former Governor of South Carolina and former UN ambassador under Trump, and Hirsh Vardhan Singh, who entered the race on July 30, are also in the race.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan: President Arif Alvi denies signing of key laws</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-president-arif-alvi-denies-signing-of-key-laws-627347/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The White House race has seen several Indian-American contenders, including Bobby Jindal in 2016 and Kamala Harris, who ultimately became the Vice President of the United States, in the 2020 election.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian-American entrepreneur, Vivek Ramaswamy, has said that he would decline an offer to become the vice president in case he is unable to secure the GOP nomination in the 2024 elections.

Indian-American entrepreneur, Vivek Ramaswamy, has said that he would decline an offer to become the vice president in case he is unable to secure the GOP nomination in the 2024 elections. Speaking on Fox News, Ramaswamy said, “I’m not interested in a different position in the government." “Frankly, I’d drive change through the private sector sooner than becoming number two or three in the federal government," he added. Addressing remarks about his age, Ramaswamy, who just turned 38, challenged that he is too young to vie for the presidency, underscoring the urgency of taking action now. Ramaswamy said that he and his wife reflected on the idea of waiting for gaining more experience before entering the presidential race. But he highlighted that the state of the country cannot afford such an approach. “My wife and I, we reflected on this: Should we wait 20 years, when our sons are out of the house when we might have some more experience?” Ramaswamy said adding, “The truth is, I don’t think we have 20 years left as a country if we just passively stand by and watch.” Also Read | ECOWAS rejects Niger coup leader's pledge to restore civilian rule in three years Regarding the matter of age in presidential eligibility, Ramaswamy said that age should not be a limiting factor. He acknowledged that many older individuals possess sharp intellect and potential for impactful leadership except in the case of Joe Biden. “They’re plenty of older people who are sharper than many people my age and may still yet have their best days ahead of them,” Ramaswamy said. Rising GOP contender Ramaswamy has been gaining ground in recent opinion polls in the Republican presidential primary. Also Read | South Africa's President Ramaphosa calls for UNSC reform, sets pitch for BRICS expansion ahead of summit Notably recognised in conservative circles for his critique of environmental, social, and governance standards in business, Ramaswamy's decision to run for president has garnered much attention. Vivek Ramaswamy, whose parents hail from Kerala, was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. He completed his undergraduate studies at Harvard University and pursued a law degree from Yale University. Lineup of Indian-origin Republican candidates Vivek Ramaswamy is not the only Republican candidate of Indian origin in the race. Nikki Haley, the former Governor of South Carolina and former UN ambassador under Trump, and Hirsh Vardhan Singh, who entered the race on July 30, are also in the race. Watch | Pakistan: President Arif Alvi denies signing of key laws × The White House race has seen several Indian-American contenders, including Bobby Jindal in 2016 and Kamala Harris, who ultimately became the Vice President of the United States, in the 2020 election. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Vivek Ramaswamy doesn't want to be vice president if he fails to win a GOP nomination for 2024

<p>The race to secure the presidential nomination from the Republican party is heating up. While former president Donald Trump still leads the GOP charts, it is India-origin&nbsp;American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy who&nbsp;has&nbsp;made rapid strides to tie himself to second-placed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a poll conducted by Emerson College, Ramaswamy and DeSantis were tied at 10 per cent each, trailing Trump, who holds a substantial lead with 56 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>DeSantis suffered a plunge of 21 per cent in the polls since June while Ramaswamy, who was stuck on two per cent, had made a steady climb.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the poll results, Emerson College Polling Executive Director Spencer Kimball&nbsp; said Ramaswamy made improvements in voters with postgraduate degrees, taking 17 per cent of that group, and with younger voters, winning 16 per cent of those younger than 35.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Comparatively, DeSantis fell sharply in favour among the&nbsp;postgraduate voters from 38 per cent in June to 14 per cent now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The poll may have come as a warning message for DeSantis who was urged by the super Political Action Committee (PAC) in a leaked memo to "take a sledgehammer" to Ramaswamy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ramaswamy replied to the memo saying:&nbsp;“Another boring, establishment attack from Super PAC-creation ‘Robot Ron’ who is literally taking lame, pre-programmed attack lines against me for next week’s debate."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vivek-ramaswamy-i-want-to-revive-our-nations-patriotism-and-pride-613452"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Vivek Ramaswamy: I want to revive our nation's patriotism and pride</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-25="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vivek-ramaswamy-i-want-to-revive-our-nations-patriotism-and-pride-613452/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ramaswamy and his politics&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ramaswamy is a US citizen, born and raised in&nbsp;Cincinnati, Ohio.&nbsp;His father worked at the General Electric Plant in Evendale, Ohio while his&nbsp;mother was a geriatric psychiatrist in Cincinnati.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He put his hat in the ring to secure a presidential nomination earlier this year.&nbsp;He is up against Trump, DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Mike Pence, Chris Christie&nbsp;and other GOP heavyweights.</p>

<p>After making sedate progress through his perfect elocution and clarity of&nbsp;ideas,&nbsp; Ramaswamy has lifted himself into serious discussion after X (formerly known as Twitter) owner Elon Musk publicly endorsed him and his ideas.</p>

<p>Ramaswamy was also granted a space on former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson's new show where he exhibited his core campaign ideas, which were widely appreciated by the netizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Musk responded to a clip of Ramaswamy, shared on X after his appearance on Carlson’s show and said:&nbsp;“He [Ramaswamy]&nbsp;is a very promising candidate."</p>

<p>The Tesla CEO’s support also comes ahead of a Republican-leaning enclave in Atlanta, in the US state of Georgia, in an otherwise Democratic-dominated city.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The race to secure the presidential nomination from the Republican party is heating up. While former president Donald Trump still leads the GOP charts, it is India-origin American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy who has made rapid strides to tie himself to second-placed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

The race to secure the presidential nomination from the Republican party is heating up. While former president Donald Trump still leads the GOP charts, it is India-origin American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy who has made rapid strides to tie himself to second-placed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. According to a poll conducted by Emerson College, Ramaswamy and DeSantis were tied at 10 per cent each, trailing Trump, who holds a substantial lead with 56 per cent. DeSantis suffered a plunge of 21 per cent in the polls since June while Ramaswamy, who was stuck on two per cent, had made a steady climb. Talking about the poll results, Emerson College Polling Executive Director Spencer Kimball said Ramaswamy made improvements in voters with postgraduate degrees, taking 17 per cent of that group, and with younger voters, winning 16 per cent of those younger than 35. Comparatively, DeSantis fell sharply in favour among the postgraduate voters from 38 per cent in June to 14 per cent now. The poll may have come as a warning message for DeSantis who was urged by the super Political Action Committee (PAC) in a leaked memo to "take a sledgehammer" to Ramaswamy. Meanwhile, Ramaswamy replied to the memo saying: “Another boring, establishment attack from Super PAC-creation ‘Robot Ron’ who is literally taking lame, pre-programmed attack lines against me for next week’s debate." Watch | Vivek Ramaswamy: I want to revive our nation's patriotism and pride Ramaswamy and his politics Ramaswamy is a US citizen, born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. His father worked at the General Electric Plant in Evendale, Ohio while his mother was a geriatric psychiatrist in Cincinnati. He put his hat in the ring to secure a presidential nomination earlier this year. He is up against Trump, DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Mike Pence, Chris Christie and other GOP heavyweights. After making sedate progress through his perfect elocution and clarity of ideas, Ramaswamy has lifted himself into serious discussion after X (formerly known as Twitter) owner Elon Musk publicly endorsed him and his ideas. Ramaswamy was also granted a space on former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson's new show where he exhibited his core campaign ideas, which were widely appreciated by the netizens. Musk responded to a clip of Ramaswamy, shared on X after his appearance on Carlson’s show and said: “He [Ramaswamy] is a very promising candidate." The Tesla CEO’s support also comes ahead of a Republican-leaning enclave in Atlanta, in the US state of Georgia, in an otherwise Democratic-dominated city. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy now tied with Ron DeSantis at second in GOP primary: Poll

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidQANB0JTw8p0E" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidQANB0JTw8p0E" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden's troubles continue to mount. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer on Wednesday (August 9), released a 19-page memo revealing that Hunter and his business associate received millions in payments from Russian and Kazakhstani oligarchs when Biden Sr served as the country's vice president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The memo names Russian oligarch Yelena Baturina and Kazakhstani oligarch Kenes Rakishev as well as a Ukrainian energy company, known as Burisma Holdings. According to screenshots of redacted bank records added in the memo, Hunter received millions in payments from all three. Later on, VP Biden attended dinners with Baturina, Rakishev and a representative from Burisma.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Then-Vice President Biden joined approximately 20 phone calls on speakerphone with Hunter Biden’s foreign business associates and attended dinners with foreign oligarchs who paid huge sums of money to Hunter Biden," the memo reads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bank records show that Baturina, the widow of former Moscow Mayor Yury Luzhkov, transferred $3.5 million to Rosemont Seneca Thornton (a company founded by Hunter) on 14 February 2014. Notably, Hunter's longtime business partner Devon Archer confirmed the payment during his interview last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, a total of $2.7 million was wired to Rosemont Seneca Bohai - another company that Hunter co-owned with Archer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-white-house-influence-hunter-biden-case-607970"><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Did White House influence Hunter Biden case?</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-25="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-31="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-white-house-influence-hunter-biden-case-607970/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>During a press conference, after the release of the memo, Comer said Hunter sold his father and his position as 'the brand' to reap millions from oligarchs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“During Joe Biden’s vice presidency, Hunter Biden sold him as ‘the brand’ to reap millions from oligarchs in Kazakhstan, Russia, and Ukraine. It appears no real services were provided other than access to the Biden network, including Joe Biden himself," said Comer.</p>

<p><i>"</i>And Hunter Biden seems to have delivered. This is made clear by meals at Café Milano where then-Vice President Joe Biden dined with oligarchs from around the world who had sent money to his son," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hunter-biden-admits-receiving-664k-from-company-backed-by-chinese-communist-party-620344" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Hunter Biden admits receiving $664K from company backed by Chinese Communist Party</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>White House refutes the claims&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the revelations by the GOP lawmaker, the White House continues to assert that Comer’s investigation is designed for political purposes. Washington says that GOP is yet to find any evidence that Joe Biden directly profited from his son's foreign business dealings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Today House Republicans on the Oversight Committee released another memo full of years-old ‘news,’ innuendo, and misdirection – but notably missing, yet again, is any connection to President Biden," said White House spokesperson Ian Sams.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


US President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden's troubles continue to mount. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer on Wednesday (August 9), released a 19-page memo revealing that Hunter and his business associate received millions in payments from Russian and Kazakhstani oligarchs when Biden Sr served as the country's vice president.

US President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden's troubles continue to mount. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer on Wednesday (August 9), released a 19-page memo revealing that Hunter and his business associate received millions in payments from Russian and Kazakhstani oligarchs when Biden Sr served as the country's vice president. The memo names Russian oligarch Yelena Baturina and Kazakhstani oligarch Kenes Rakishev as well as a Ukrainian energy company, known as Burisma Holdings. According to screenshots of redacted bank records added in the memo, Hunter received millions in payments from all three. Later on, VP Biden attended dinners with Baturina, Rakishev and a representative from Burisma. "Then-Vice President Biden joined approximately 20 phone calls on speakerphone with Hunter Biden’s foreign business associates and attended dinners with foreign oligarchs who paid huge sums of money to Hunter Biden," the memo reads. Bank records show that Baturina, the widow of former Moscow Mayor Yury Luzhkov, transferred $3.5 million to Rosemont Seneca Thornton (a company founded by Hunter) on 14 February 2014. Notably, Hunter's longtime business partner Devon Archer confirmed the payment during his interview last week. Afterwards, a total of $2.7 million was wired to Rosemont Seneca Bohai - another company that Hunter co-owned with Archer. WATCH | Gravitas: Did White House influence Hunter Biden case? During a press conference, after the release of the memo, Comer said Hunter sold his father and his position as 'the brand' to reap millions from oligarchs. “During Joe Biden’s vice presidency, Hunter Biden sold him as ‘the brand’ to reap millions from oligarchs in Kazakhstan, Russia, and Ukraine. It appears no real services were provided other than access to the Biden network, including Joe Biden himself," said Comer. "And Hunter Biden seems to have delivered. This is made clear by meals at Café Milano where then-Vice President Joe Biden dined with oligarchs from around the world who had sent money to his son," he added. Also read | Hunter Biden admits receiving $664K from company backed by Chinese Communist Party White House refutes the claims Despite the revelations by the GOP lawmaker, the White House continues to assert that Comer’s investigation is designed for political purposes. Washington says that GOP is yet to find any evidence that Joe Biden directly profited from his son's foreign business dealings. “Today House Republicans on the Oversight Committee released another memo full of years-old ‘news,’ innuendo, and misdirection – but notably missing, yet again, is any connection to President Biden," said White House spokesperson Ian Sams. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hunter Biden sold his father as 'the brand' to oligarchs, House Oversight memo claims

<p>Miami GOP Mayor Francis Suarez has officially launched his presidential campaign for 2024, embarking on a challenging journey as a long-shot candidate. In a video released Thursday morning, Suarez announced his formal entry into the race, expressing his determination to fight for a better future for the nation's children.</p>

<p>Drawing inspiration from his father, Suarez proclaimed, "You get to choose your battles, and I am choosing the biggest one of my life. I'm going to run for president, not just for my children, but for yours as well. Let's grant them the future they deserve. It's time to take matters into our own hands. It's time to get things started."</p>

<p>Suarez is scheduled to address the public at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. In a recent appearance on Fox News, the mayor hinted at a "major announcement" in the upcoming weeks and emphasised that his speech at the Reagan Library is one that Americans should not miss.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Mayor Francis Suarez?</strong></h2>

<p>Suarez, a Cuban American, is currently serving his second term as the mayor of Miami, Florida's second-most populous city. Until recently, he also held the position of president at the bipartisan US Conference of Mayors, showcasing his ability to work across party lines.</p>

<p>Before his official filing, a super PAC supporting Suarez released a two-minute video that praised his leadership in Miami while teasing his underdog bid for the White House. The video highlighted his approach to combating crime and his unwavering support for law enforcement.</p>

<h2><strong>Suarez faces an uphill battle</strong></h2>

<p>As the first major Hispanic candidate to enter the Republican race, Suarez faces an uphill battle in the primary. Former President Donald Trump, who resides in nearby Palm Beach, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis currently dominate the polls.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiymNPQ-sX_AhXVbd4KHeYJCOwQtwJ6BAgHEAI" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKx_ohOCf2U" jsname="ACyKwe" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;url=https://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DzKx_ohOCf2U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiymNPQ-sX_AhXVbd4KHeYJCOwQtwJ6BAgHEAI">How's the grand old party presidential race playing out?</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hows-the-grand-old-party-presidential-race-playing-out-601022/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The primary field also includes notable figures such as former Vice President Mike Pence, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie.</p>

<h2><strong>A look at Francis Suarez’s political career</strong></h2>

<p>Before becoming mayor in 2017, Suarez served as a Miami city commissioner for eight years. His father, Xavier Suarez, was also a former mayor of Miami in the 1980s and 1990s, albeit with his victory in 1997 being overturned due to an investigation into voter fraud.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-chances-of-winning-republican-nomination-for-2024-election-high-poll-580067"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Trump's chances of winning Republican nomination for 2024 election high: Poll</strong></a></p>

<p>As mayor, Suarez has been a driving force behind Miami's push for technological advancements, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He has actively promoted industries like cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence, envisioning Miami as the new Silicon Valley. Notably, he even extended an invitation to Elon Musk to relocate Twitter's headquarters to the city.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Miami GOP Mayor Francis Suarez has officially launched his presidential campaign for 2024, embarking on a challenging journey as a long-shot candidate. In a video released Thursday morning, Suarez announced his formal entry into the race, expressing his determination to fight for a better future for the nation's children.

Miami GOP Mayor Francis Suarez has officially launched his presidential campaign for 2024, embarking on a challenging journey as a long-shot candidate. In a video released Thursday morning, Suarez announced his formal entry into the race, expressing his determination to fight for a better future for the nation's children. Drawing inspiration from his father, Suarez proclaimed, "You get to choose your battles, and I am choosing the biggest one of my life. I'm going to run for president, not just for my children, but for yours as well. Let's grant them the future they deserve. It's time to take matters into our own hands. It's time to get things started." Suarez is scheduled to address the public at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. In a recent appearance on Fox News, the mayor hinted at a "major announcement" in the upcoming weeks and emphasised that his speech at the Reagan Library is one that Americans should not miss. Who is Mayor Francis Suarez? Suarez, a Cuban American, is currently serving his second term as the mayor of Miami, Florida's second-most populous city. Until recently, he also held the position of president at the bipartisan US Conference of Mayors, showcasing his ability to work across party lines. Before his official filing, a super PAC supporting Suarez released a two-minute video that praised his leadership in Miami while teasing his underdog bid for the White House. The video highlighted his approach to combating crime and his unwavering support for law enforcement. Suarez faces an uphill battle As the first major Hispanic candidate to enter the Republican race, Suarez faces an uphill battle in the primary. Former President Donald Trump, who resides in nearby Palm Beach, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis currently dominate the polls. Watch: How's the grand old party presidential race playing out? × The primary field also includes notable figures such as former Vice President Mike Pence, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. A look at Francis Suarez’s political career Before becoming mayor in 2017, Suarez served as a Miami city commissioner for eight years. His father, Xavier Suarez, was also a former mayor of Miami in the 1980s and 1990s, albeit with his victory in 1997 being overturned due to an investigation into voter fraud. Also read: Trump's chances of winning Republican nomination for 2024 election high: Poll As mayor, Suarez has been a driving force behind Miami's push for technological advancements, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He has actively promoted industries like cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence, envisioning Miami as the new Silicon Valley. Notably, he even extended an invitation to Elon Musk to relocate Twitter's headquarters to the city. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Miami GOP Mayor Francis Suarez throws his hat into ring for 2024 presidential race

<p>Former US president Donald Trump entered a plea of not guilty to the 37-count indictment<br />
— marking his second indictment since announcing a 2024 run, and the first time a former president faces federal charges —&nbsp;as he faces allegations of mishandling sensitive government secrets and engaging in scheming to prevent their recovery and&nbsp;return. In a historic event on Tuesday, Trump appeared in a federal court in Miami&nbsp;and surrendered to US Marshals.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Trump was formally arrested and fingerprinted, but was not put in handcuffs, nor did he have his mugshot taken, given his high profile and low flight and security risks.</p>

<p>On the eve of his 77th birthday, Trump stood before a magistrate judge to officially face 37 charges filed by a special counsel, following an FBI raid on his Florida mansion from where several classified documents — some marked&nbsp;top secret — were recovered. This hearing comes shortly after Trump's denial of state-level financial fraud charges in a separate case in Manhattan. The mounting legal troubles for the former president pose a serious threat to his aspirations of returning to the Oval Office.The US government alleges that Trump violated the Espionage Act and other laws by taking classified documents with him upon leaving office in 2021 and deliberately withholding them from the National Archives. Authorities assert that he conspired to impede investigators and knowingly shared national security secrets with individuals lacking proper clearance.<br />
<br />
Justice Department prosecutors recommended both Nauta and Trump be released without conditions because “the government does not view either defendant as a flight risk.”<br />
Magistrate Judge Jonathan Goodman ordered Trump not to have contact with any witnesses in the case, including his co-defendant Walt Naut.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump greets supporters at restaurant</strong></h2>

<p>After the hearing, Trump made his way to his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, to deliver an evening speech and vehemently proclaiming his innocence. But before that, he took a moment to greet his supporters at a Cuban restaurant in Miami's Little Havana. Trump met with his supporters, while he expressed his outrage at the charges, decrying what he sees as a corrupt and declining country.</p>

<p>“A country in decline like never before,” he said. “I think it’s a rigged deal here.”</p>

<h2><strong>No massive gathering of pro-Trump supporters&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Large-scale protests were anticipated in Miami, prompting increased security measures by local authorities. However, only a small gathering of a few dozen Trump supporters showed up near the courthouse.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Former US President Donald Trump put National Security at risk</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indictment-former-us-president-donald-trump-put-national-security-at-risk-604042/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Some attendees wore "Make America Great Again" caps, and one person held a sign calling for the indictment of Jack Smith, the special prosecutor responsible for bringing the charges. Trump himself had previously criticised Smith on his Truth Social network, labelling him a "thug" and a "lunatic."</p>

<h2><strong>Trump enjoys strong backing from Republicans</strong></h2>

<p>The former president enjoys strong support from Republican voters, with 81 per cent of them, according to a recent Ipsos poll, believing that the charges against him are politically motivated. Trump’s lawyer Alina Habba emphasised the dangerous rise of politically driven prosecutors who, in her view, disregard impartiality, due process, and equal protection of the law.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ramaswamy-vows-to-pardon-trump-if-elected-dares-opponents-to-do-the-same-604092"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;US: Ramaswamy vows to pardon Trump if elected, dares opponents to do the same</strong></a></p>

<p>Republican leaders in Congress and Trump's rivals within the party vying for the presidential nomination have predominantly focused their attacks on the Justice Department, rather than acknowledging the gravity of the allegations against Trump.<br />
<br />
However, the charges against Trump are grevious, and if convicted, he faces upto 20 years in jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former US president Donald Trump entered a plea of not guilty to the 37-count indictment — marking his second indictment since announcing a 2024 run, and the first time a former president faces federal charges — as he faces allegations of mishandling sensitive government secrets and engaging in scheming to prevent their recovery and return.

Former US president Donald Trump entered a plea of not guilty to the 37-count indictment — marking his second indictment since announcing a 2024 run, and the first time a former president faces federal charges — as he faces allegations of mishandling sensitive government secrets and engaging in scheming to prevent their recovery and return. In a historic event on Tuesday, Trump appeared in a federal court in Miami and surrendered to US Marshals. Trump was formally arrested and fingerprinted, but was not put in handcuffs, nor did he have his mugshot taken, given his high profile and low flight and security risks. On the eve of his 77th birthday, Trump stood before a magistrate judge to officially face 37 charges filed by a special counsel, following an FBI raid on his Florida mansion from where several classified documents — some marked top secret — were recovered. This hearing comes shortly after Trump's denial of state-level financial fraud charges in a separate case in Manhattan. The mounting legal troubles for the former president pose a serious threat to his aspirations of returning to the Oval Office.The US government alleges that Trump violated the Espionage Act and other laws by taking classified documents with him upon leaving office in 2021 and deliberately withholding them from the National Archives. Authorities assert that he conspired to impede investigators and knowingly shared national security secrets with individuals lacking proper clearance. Justice Department prosecutors recommended both Nauta and Trump be released without conditions because “the government does not view either defendant as a flight risk.” Magistrate Judge Jonathan Goodman ordered Trump not to have contact with any witnesses in the case, including his co-defendant Walt Naut. Trump greets supporters at restaurant After the hearing, Trump made his way to his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, to deliver an evening speech and vehemently proclaiming his innocence. But before that, he took a moment to greet his supporters at a Cuban restaurant in Miami's Little Havana. Trump met with his supporters, while he expressed his outrage at the charges, decrying what he sees as a corrupt and declining country. “A country in decline like never before,” he said. “I think it’s a rigged deal here.” No massive gathering of pro-Trump supporters Large-scale protests were anticipated in Miami, prompting increased security measures by local authorities. However, only a small gathering of a few dozen Trump supporters showed up near the courthouse. Watch: Former US President Donald Trump put National Security at risk × Some attendees wore "Make America Great Again" caps, and one person held a sign calling for the indictment of Jack Smith, the special prosecutor responsible for bringing the charges. Trump himself had previously criticised Smith on his Truth Social network, labelling him a "thug" and a "lunatic." Trump enjoys strong backing from Republicans The former president enjoys strong support from Republican voters, with 81 per cent of them, according to a recent Ipsos poll, believing that the charges against him are politically motivated. Trump’s lawyer Alina Habba emphasised the dangerous rise of politically driven prosecutors who, in her view, disregard impartiality, due process, and equal protection of the law. Also read: US: Ramaswamy vows to pardon Trump if elected, dares opponents to do the same Republican leaders in Congress and Trump's rivals within the party vying for the presidential nomination have predominantly focused their attacks on the Justice Department, rather than acknowledging the gravity of the allegations against Trump. However, the charges against Trump are grevious, and if convicted, he faces upto 20 years in jail. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Donald Trump pleads not guilty to 37-count indictment, released without conditions after formal arrest

North Carolina's Republican-led General Assembly moved Tuesday to ban most abortions after 12 weeks, voting to override a veto from Democratic Governor Roy Cooper. The bill now becomes law and takes effect July 1.

North Carolina GOP overrides veto of 12-week abortion limit

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is prepared to announce a plan the following week that would extend the country's debt ceiling for a year in exchange for expenditure cuts. According to two persons who requested to remain anonymous, the plan calls for a vote in the House in late May to extend the debt ceiling until around May 2024. This would serve as the starting point for negotiations with the White House and congressional Democrats.

GOP vs Biden: GOP bill seeks to suspend ceiling until May 2024

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidJlP7UhxIGdEt" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The US state of Florida is planning to extend the ban on teaching sexual orientation and gender identity to all school grades. Currently, those studying above third grade are allowed to indulge in such discussions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new proposal has been put forth by the Florida Department of Education which will not require any legislative approval. Once passed, the ban would extend through the 12th grade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The proposal received almost immediate criticism with the White House slamming the decision, calling it 'completely, utterly wrong'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Make no mistake: This is a part of a disturbing and dangerous trend that we're seeing across the country of legislations that are anti-LGBTQI+, anti-trans," said Karine Jean-Pierre, White House Press Secretary.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/florida-governor-ron-desantis-condemns-woke-ideology-of-democrat-leaders-568983"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Florida governor Ron DeSantis condemns 'woke ideology' of Democrat leaders</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/florida-governor-ron-desantis-condemns-woke-ideology-of-democrat-leaders-568983/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Democrats, for long, have called the passing of the legislation immoral and dubbed it as the 'Don't say gay' bill, contrary to its formal name 'Florida Parental Rights in Education Act'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The law, as the name suggests, claims to give parents more control over their children's education and limit the influence of schools and teachers in certain areas. Signed by DeSantis himself, the Parental Rights in Education banned classroom discussions on gay or transgender people for students in third grade or younger.</p>

<p>"Classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards," reads the law.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--ron-desantis-takes-control-of-disneys-self-governing-district-in-florida-amid-dont-say-gay-row-566819" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Explained | Ron DeSantis takes control of Disney's self-governing district in Florida amid 'Don't Say Gay' row</strong></a></p>

<p>The proposed rule change comes in the backdrop of Florida GOP Governor Ron DeSantis attempting to secure the party's nomination for the 2024 presidential election. DeSantis is engaged in a battle with former US president Donald Trump for the nomination.</p>

<p>The Conservatives have lapped up DeSantis' cracking of the whip against 'woke' agendas and extending the rule may help him gain more votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The US state of Florida is planning to extend the ban on teaching sexual orientation and gender identity to all school grades. Currently, those studying above third grade are allowed to indulge in such discussions.

The US state of Florida is planning to extend the ban on teaching sexual orientation and gender identity to all school grades. Currently, those studying above third grade are allowed to indulge in such discussions. The new proposal has been put forth by the Florida Department of Education which will not require any legislative approval. Once passed, the ban would extend through the 12th grade. The proposal received almost immediate criticism with the White House slamming the decision, calling it 'completely, utterly wrong'. "Make no mistake: This is a part of a disturbing and dangerous trend that we're seeing across the country of legislations that are anti-LGBTQI+, anti-trans," said Karine Jean-Pierre, White House Press Secretary. WATCH | Florida governor Ron DeSantis condemns 'woke ideology' of Democrat leaders × Democrats, for long, have called the passing of the legislation immoral and dubbed it as the 'Don't say gay' bill, contrary to its formal name 'Florida Parental Rights in Education Act'. The law, as the name suggests, claims to give parents more control over their children's education and limit the influence of schools and teachers in certain areas. Signed by DeSantis himself, the Parental Rights in Education banned classroom discussions on gay or transgender people for students in third grade or younger. "Classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards," reads the law. ALSO READ | Explained | Ron DeSantis takes control of Disney's self-governing district in Florida amid 'Don't Say Gay' row The proposed rule change comes in the backdrop of Florida GOP Governor Ron DeSantis attempting to secure the party's nomination for the 2024 presidential election. DeSantis is engaged in a battle with former US president Donald Trump for the nomination. The Conservatives have lapped up DeSantis' cracking of the whip against 'woke' agendas and extending the rule may help him gain more votes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Florida set to extend the ambit of 'Don't say gay' law to all school grades

<p>Raising questions over the GOPs "deafening" silence, presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy is calling out for Republicans' support against&nbsp;Donald Trump's possible indictment in a probe by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.</p>

<p>Indian-American Ramaswamy, on Saturday, called on Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley "to join him by 9 AM tomorrow (Sunday) in calling on Bragg to abandon the political persecution of the 45th president of the US".</p>

<p>"This is about principle, not a person. This is about our country, not one man. The silence from the rest of the GOP field is deafening," he said. "That is not the America I know. That is not America my parents came to. That is not the America our founding fathers set in motion 250 years ago. That is the stuff of a&nbsp;Banana Republic."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-president-obrador-holds-massive-rally-ahead-of-2024-elections-573468">Mexico: President Obrador holds massive rally ahead of 2024 elections</a></p>

<p>Ramaswamy&nbsp;said it is not about Trump being his competition in the race to become the next US president, but more about the integrity of the elections and the integrity of the self-governing democracy.</p>

<p>He asserted that it does not matter whether anyone roots for Trump or not, but must speak up if they are rooting for the constitutional republic.&nbsp;Ramaswamy said a politically empowered prosecutor cannot eliminate the opposition of the ruling party, Trump, by using arrest, and called it a sad and dark day in America.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vivek Ramaswamy mostly speaks on the Mexican drug cartel menace in America, special treatment for SVB, targeting woke culture and overcoming climate change as part of the promises since he threw his hat in the ring by declaring that he will be running for the president's office in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wyoming-becomes-first-us-state-to-ban-abortion-pills-573474">Wyoming becomes first US state to ban abortion pills</a></p>

<p>However, on Saturday, Ramaswamy saved the day by lending support to Trump and calling his possible indictment a "national disaster".&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I held a press conference following my South Carolina speech. I called on GOP donor class favorites <a href="https://twitter.com/RonDeSantisFL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RonDeSantisFL</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/NikkiHaley?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NikkiHaley</a> to join me by 9 AM tomorrow in calling on the Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg to abandon the political persecution through prosecution of the 45th… <a href="https://t.co/UhXfV2ZroP">https://t.co/UhXfV2ZroP</a> <a href="https://t.co/koSbMBwQRy">pic.twitter.com/koSbMBwQRy</a></p>
— Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) <a href="https://twitter.com/VivekGRamaswamy/status/1637233081806364675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"It is un-American for the ruling party to use police power to arrest its political rivals. If a Republican prosecutor in 2004 had used a campaign finance technicality to arrest then-candidate John Kerry while Bush and Cheney were in power, liberals would have cried foul – and rightly so. Principles go beyond partisanship," he wrote on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This will mark a dark moment in American history and will undermine public trust in our electoral system itself. I call on the Manhattan District Attorney to reconsider this action and to put aside partisan politics in service of preserving our constitutional republic," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mumbais-air-pollution-aqi-continues-to-remain-poor-indian-city-witnesses-most-polluted-winters-573472">Mumbai's air pollution: AQI continues to remain poor, Indian city witnesses most polluted winters</a></p>

<p>Former US president Donald Trump claimed on Saturday that he was expecting to get "arrested" on Tuesday next week. He also called on his supporters to start protests against his potential indictment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citing a "leak" from the Manhattan district attorney's office, Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, "Leading Republican candidate &amp; former President of the United States of America will be arrested on Tuesday of next week. Protest, take our nation back!"</p>

<p>The investigation is centred around $130,000 hush money paid weeks before the 2016 polls to stop Stormy Daniels from going public about an affair she says she had with Trump years ago.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Raising questions over the GOPs "deafening" silence, presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy is calling out for Republicans' support against Donald Trump's possible indictment in a probe by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Raising questions over the GOPs "deafening" silence, presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy is calling out for Republicans' support against Donald Trump's possible indictment in a probe by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. Indian-American Ramaswamy, on Saturday, called on Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley "to join him by 9 AM tomorrow (Sunday) in calling on Bragg to abandon the political persecution of the 45th president of the US". "This is about principle, not a person. This is about our country, not one man. The silence from the rest of the GOP field is deafening," he said. "That is not the America I know. That is not America my parents came to. That is not the America our founding fathers set in motion 250 years ago. That is the stuff of a Banana Republic." Also Read | Mexico: President Obrador holds massive rally ahead of 2024 elections Ramaswamy said it is not about Trump being his competition in the race to become the next US president, but more about the integrity of the elections and the integrity of the self-governing democracy. He asserted that it does not matter whether anyone roots for Trump or not, but must speak up if they are rooting for the constitutional republic. Ramaswamy said a politically empowered prosecutor cannot eliminate the opposition of the ruling party, Trump, by using arrest, and called it a sad and dark day in America. Vivek Ramaswamy mostly speaks on the Mexican drug cartel menace in America, special treatment for SVB, targeting woke culture and overcoming climate change as part of the promises since he threw his hat in the ring by declaring that he will be running for the president's office in 2024. Also Read | Wyoming becomes first US state to ban abortion pills However, on Saturday, Ramaswamy saved the day by lending support to Trump and calling his possible indictment a "national disaster". I held a press conference following my South Carolina speech. I called on GOP donor class favorites @RonDeSantisFL and @NikkiHaley to join me by 9 AM tomorrow in calling on the Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg to abandon the political persecution through prosecution of the 45th… https://t.co/UhXfV2ZroP pic.twitter.com/koSbMBwQRy — Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) March 18, 2023 × "It is un-American for the ruling party to use police power to arrest its political rivals. If a Republican prosecutor in 2004 had used a campaign finance technicality to arrest then-candidate John Kerry while Bush and Cheney were in power, liberals would have cried foul – and rightly so. Principles go beyond partisanship," he wrote on social media. "This will mark a dark moment in American history and will undermine public trust in our electoral system itself. I call on the Manhattan District Attorney to reconsider this action and to put aside partisan politics in service of preserving our constitutional republic," he added. Watch | Mumbai's air pollution: AQI continues to remain poor, Indian city witnesses most polluted winters Former US president Donald Trump claimed on Saturday that he was expecting to get "arrested" on Tuesday next week. He also called on his supporters to start protests against his potential indictment. Citing a "leak" from the Manhattan district attorney's office, Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, "Leading Republican candidate & former President of the United States of America will be arrested on Tuesday of next week. Protest, take our nation back!" The investigation is centred around $130,000 hush money paid weeks before the 2016 polls to stop Stormy Daniels from going public about an affair she says she had with Trump years ago. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy calls for GOP support against Trump’s likely indictment

<p>Republican Matt Rosendale gives explanation after he posed with members of far-right neo-Nazi movement last week, which resulted in a huge hue and cry on social media with netizens condemning the actions by the GOP leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rosendale was seen posing with neo-Nazi movement members, Ryan Sanchez and Greyson Arnold. Sanchez who was associated with a white supremacist street-fighting gang Rise Above Movement whereas Greyson Arnold is a Nazi sympathizer &nbsp;and a podcaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-lloyd-austin-visits-iraq-vows-defence-support-against-daesh-569575">US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin visits Iraq, vows defence support against Daesh</a></p>

<p>In a photo op, the GOP leader on 1 March was posing with Sanchez and Arnold in front of the Capitol. Arnold was one of the many who was at the 6 January, 2021 insurrection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The photo went viral on social media where users were seen criticising the leader so much so that it made him come out and defend himself.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/germany-planning-to-ban-huawei-zte-from-parts-of-5g-networks-paper-569540">Germany planning to ban Huawei, ZTE from parts of 5G networks: Paper</a></p>

<p>In an email statement to the newspaper The Billings Gazette, Rosendale said, “I absolutely condemn and have zero tolerance for hate groups, hate speech, and violence. I did not take a meeting with these individuals."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-estonias-election-result-important-for-ukraine-569565">Why is Estonia's election result important for Ukraine?</a></p>

<p>“I was asked for a photo while walking between hearings, accommodating as I do for all photo requests, and was not aware of the individuals’ identity or affiliation with these hate groups that stand in stark contrast to my personal beliefs.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Republican Matt Rosendale gives explanation after he posed with members of far-right neo-Nazi movement last week, which resulted in a huge hue and cry on social media with netizens condemning the actions by the GOP leader.

Republican Matt Rosendale gives explanation after he posed with members of far-right neo-Nazi movement last week, which resulted in a huge hue and cry on social media with netizens condemning the actions by the GOP leader. Rosendale was seen posing with neo-Nazi movement members, Ryan Sanchez and Greyson Arnold. Sanchez who was associated with a white supremacist street-fighting gang Rise Above Movement whereas Greyson Arnold is a Nazi sympathizer and a podcaster. Also Read | US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin visits Iraq, vows defence support against Daesh In a photo op, the GOP leader on 1 March was posing with Sanchez and Arnold in front of the Capitol. Arnold was one of the many who was at the 6 January, 2021 insurrection. The photo went viral on social media where users were seen criticising the leader so much so that it made him come out and defend himself. Also Read | Germany planning to ban Huawei, ZTE from parts of 5G networks: Paper In an email statement to the newspaper The Billings Gazette, Rosendale said, “I absolutely condemn and have zero tolerance for hate groups, hate speech, and violence. I did not take a meeting with these individuals." Watch | Why is Estonia's election result important for Ukraine? “I was asked for a photo while walking between hearings, accommodating as I do for all photo requests, and was not aware of the individuals’ identity or affiliation with these hate groups that stand in stark contrast to my personal beliefs.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

GOP congressman Matt Rosendale defends himself after photo op with neo-Nazis draws flak

<p>The top two Republicans broke&nbsp;the silence about former United States president Donald Trump’s dinner with white supremacist Nick Fuentes and musician Ye (formerly known as Kanye West) who has recently come under fire for his anti-semitic remarks.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Senate minority leader and Republican Mitch McConnell&nbsp;during his weekly address told reporters, “There is no room in the Republican party for antisemitism or white supremacy and anyone meeting with people advocating that point of view, in my judgment, are highly unlikely to ever be elected president of the United States.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after Trump announced his bid to run for the presidential election in 2024, however, the former president is yet to win the Republican nomination.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-should-definitely-not-trump-about-kanyes-potential-run-at-us-presidency-refuses-to-be-his-running-mate-537602">'He should definitely not': Trump on Kanye's potential run at US presidency; refuses to be his running mate</a></strong></p>

<p>When asked if he would support Trump should he become the party’s 2024 nominee, the senate minority leader repeated, “There is simply no room in the Republican Party for antisemitism or white supremacy…That would apply to all of the leaders in the party who will be seeking offices.” Notably, while Trump was not mentioned by name in McConnell’s remarks, this indicates a shift in the GOP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>House minority leader, Kevin McCarthy, on Tuesday, said, “I don’t think anybody should have a meeting with Nick Fuentes, and his views are nowhere within the Republican Party or within this country itself.”&nbsp;He added that Trump should also not associate with Ye. These remarks were made following his meeting with incumbent President Biden in Washington. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/all-you-need-to-know-about-trumps-explosive-dinner-with-ye-and-nick-fuentes-538692">All you need to know about Trump’s explosive dinner with Ye and Nick Fuentes</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, former vice president Mike Pence called for Trump to apologise for meeting with Fuentes.&nbsp;“President Trump was wrong to give a white nationalist, an antisemite and Holocaust denier a seat at the table, and I think he should apologise for it,” Pence said during an interview with NewsNation. He added that the former president should “denounce those individuals and their hateful rhetoric without qualification”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/journalist-ray-locker-assess-trumps-mar-a-lago-dinner-with-ye-and-nick-fuentes-538696">Journalist Ray Locker assess Trump's Mar-a-Lago dinner with Ye and Nick Fuentes</a></strong></p>

<p>Last week, Trump hosted, Fuentes who has been described as a white supremacist by the US Department of Justice and Ye who has drawn criticism for anti-semitic comments, at Mar-a-Lago. Subsequently, on Friday, amid mounting criticism,&nbsp;the former president claimed that he “knew nothing” about Fuentes and that he “unexpectedly” showed up at the dinner with Ye.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The top two Republicans broke the silence about former United States president Donald Trump’s dinner with white supremacist Nick Fuentes and musician Ye (formerly known as Kanye West) who has recently come under fire for his anti-semitic remarks.

The top two Republicans broke the silence about former United States president Donald Trump’s dinner with white supremacist Nick Fuentes and musician Ye (formerly known as Kanye West) who has recently come under fire for his anti-semitic remarks. On Tuesday, Senate minority leader and Republican Mitch McConnell during his weekly address told reporters, “There is no room in the Republican party for antisemitism or white supremacy and anyone meeting with people advocating that point of view, in my judgment, are highly unlikely to ever be elected president of the United States.” This comes after Trump announced his bid to run for the presidential election in 2024, however, the former president is yet to win the Republican nomination. ALSO READ | 'He should definitely not': Trump on Kanye's potential run at US presidency; refuses to be his running mate When asked if he would support Trump should he become the party’s 2024 nominee, the senate minority leader repeated, “There is simply no room in the Republican Party for antisemitism or white supremacy…That would apply to all of the leaders in the party who will be seeking offices.” Notably, while Trump was not mentioned by name in McConnell’s remarks, this indicates a shift in the GOP. House minority leader, Kevin McCarthy, on Tuesday, said, “I don’t think anybody should have a meeting with Nick Fuentes, and his views are nowhere within the Republican Party or within this country itself.” He added that Trump should also not associate with Ye. These remarks were made following his meeting with incumbent President Biden in Washington. ALSO WATCH | All you need to know about Trump’s explosive dinner with Ye and Nick Fuentes Meanwhile, former vice president Mike Pence called for Trump to apologise for meeting with Fuentes. “President Trump was wrong to give a white nationalist, an antisemite and Holocaust denier a seat at the table, and I think he should apologise for it,” Pence said during an interview with NewsNation. He added that the former president should “denounce those individuals and their hateful rhetoric without qualification”. ALSO WATCH | Journalist Ray Locker assess Trump's Mar-a-Lago dinner with Ye and Nick Fuentes Last week, Trump hosted, Fuentes who has been described as a white supremacist by the US Department of Justice and Ye who has drawn criticism for anti-semitic comments, at Mar-a-Lago. Subsequently, on Friday, amid mounting criticism, the former president claimed that he “knew nothing” about Fuentes and that he “unexpectedly” showed up at the dinner with Ye. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Republican leaders criticise Trump’s Mar-a-Lago dinner with Fuentes and Kanye

<p>Republican officials in two counties of the United States’ Arizona and Pennsylvania have refused to certify the results of the midterm elections, on Monday. This comes after the Republicans on the election boards of Cochise County in Arizona and Luzerne County in Pennsylvania have voted against the motion in their respective counties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two GOP county supervisors on the three-person Cochise County election board have postponed the certification of the county's results and seemingly embraced voter fraud theories. Reportedly, they have raised concerns about the certification of the county’s voting machines, without evidence, while they have been repeatedly assured that the equipment is approved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, on Monday, secretary of state and Democrat, Katie Hobbs who had previously threatened to sue the county for not certifying the elections, filed a lawsuit. She has reportedly asked the judge to order Cochise County to canvass (the official tally of votes) the election which she said was an obligation under state law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania faced a deadlock as two Democratic members in the election board moved to certify the results and two Republicans voted “no”, while the tie-breaker Democrat Daniel Schramm, abstained from voting. This comes after the county faced paper shortages on Election Day as voting centres ran out of ballots early in the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Schramm, in a phone interview with Associated Press said that after the meeting on Monday, he was reassured that only a few, if any, voters could not cast their ballots because of the shortage. Additionally, he was told that all provisional ballots were accounted for previously. Therefore, Schramm said that he will move to vote in favour of certifying the results in the next meeting on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I wanted to research to see exactly how many people were just not allowed to vote. I couldn’t find any,” said the Democrat Schramm after election officials reportedly contacted 125 judges of elections from the county’s 187 precincts and said, “nobody being turned away.” Furthermore, the judge had extended the voting time in the Pennsylvania county by two hours on November 8 following the paper shortage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Republican officials in two counties of the United States’ Arizona and Pennsylvania have refused to certify the results of the midterm elections, on Monday. This comes after the Republicans on the election boards of Cochise County in Arizona and Luzerne County in Pennsylvania have voted against the motion in their respective counties.

Republican officials in two counties of the United States’ Arizona and Pennsylvania have refused to certify the results of the midterm elections, on Monday. This comes after the Republicans on the election boards of Cochise County in Arizona and Luzerne County in Pennsylvania have voted against the motion in their respective counties. The two GOP county supervisors on the three-person Cochise County election board have postponed the certification of the county's results and seemingly embraced voter fraud theories. Reportedly, they have raised concerns about the certification of the county’s voting machines, without evidence, while they have been repeatedly assured that the equipment is approved. Meanwhile, on Monday, secretary of state and Democrat, Katie Hobbs who had previously threatened to sue the county for not certifying the elections, filed a lawsuit. She has reportedly asked the judge to order Cochise County to canvass (the official tally of votes) the election which she said was an obligation under state law. On the other hand, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania faced a deadlock as two Democratic members in the election board moved to certify the results and two Republicans voted “no”, while the tie-breaker Democrat Daniel Schramm, abstained from voting. This comes after the county faced paper shortages on Election Day as voting centres ran out of ballots early in the day. However, Schramm, in a phone interview with Associated Press said that after the meeting on Monday, he was reassured that only a few, if any, voters could not cast their ballots because of the shortage. Additionally, he was told that all provisional ballots were accounted for previously. Therefore, Schramm said that he will move to vote in favour of certifying the results in the next meeting on Wednesday. “I wanted to research to see exactly how many people were just not allowed to vote. I couldn’t find any,” said the Democrat Schramm after election officials reportedly contacted 125 judges of elections from the county’s 187 precincts and said, “nobody being turned away.” Furthermore, the judge had extended the voting time in the Pennsylvania county by two hours on November 8 following the paper shortage. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Republican officials refuse to certify midterm elections results in Arizona, Pennsylvania counties

The Republican Party's narrow win in the house is poised to transform the agenda in Washington. This will empower GOP lawmakers to pursue conservative goals and challenge the policies of President Joe Biden.

US: Republicans' top priority is to probe Biden family

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidS8k03N5cYgFX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><meta name="uuid" content="uuidS8k03N5cYgFX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidS8k03N5cYgFX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Former US President Donald Trump is expected to launch his presidential bid today from his Mar-a-Lago residence. Sensing that competition might be intense this time around, Trump has attempted to convince Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner to speak during the announcement, according to The New York Post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trump put forth the proposal at his daughter Tiffany Trump's wedding on Sunday, according to The New York Post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Trump thought he could convince Ivanka this weekend to come back and campaign for him as she was the most requested speaker after the president himself last time around...but so far she's resisting his entreaties and holding firm, as is Jared," the publication noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiffany-donald-trumps-daughter-marries-beau-michael-boulos-533939" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Tiffany, Donald Trump's daughter, marries beau Michael Boulos</strong></a></p>

<p>It added that both Ivanka and Jared feel, "they got burned in Washington and don’t want to go back and expose themselves and their children to another bitter campaign."</p>

<p>During Trump's 2016 victorious presidential race, Ivanka and Jared played a pivotal part. Both remained in the inner circle of Trump for the next four years and had a decisive say in numerous policies of the former president.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-ivanka-trump-testifies-in-capitol-riot-probe-468738"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;United States: Ivanka Trump testifies in capitol riot probe</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-ivanka-trump-testifies-in-capitol-riot-probe-468738/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>However, after Trump lost the 2020 election, the couple returned to their upscale, socialite, Indian Creek Island&nbsp;life in Miami. Both have been busy attending to social commitments with Jared recently releasing his memoir titled “Breaking History: A White House Memoir”.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Trump has been facing a stiff contest from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis who some GOP leaders want to be projected as the next presidential candidate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 'red wave' in the midterm elections was not as significant as Trump had promised in the run-up, further suggesting that his charisma was waning. Consequently, several voices inside GOP have suggested that Trump should not run for the 2024 election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Trump appears determined to give another crack to the position. As reported by WION, Trump's longtime advisor Jason Miller last week said that he "is going to announce on Tuesday that he is running for president."</p>

<p>In Miller's words "it's gonna be a very professional, very buttoned-up announcement."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-make-a-very-professional-very-buttoned-up-announcement-for-presidential-bid-on-tuesday-533454" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Trump to make a 'very professional, very buttoned-up announcement' for presidential bid on Tuesday</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Former US President Donald Trump is expected to launch his presidential bid today from his Mar-a-Lago residence. Sensing that competition might be intense this time around, Trump has attempted to convince Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner to speak during the announcement, according to The New York Post.

Former US President Donald Trump is expected to launch his presidential bid today from his Mar-a-Lago residence. Sensing that competition might be intense this time around, Trump has attempted to convince Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner to speak during the announcement, according to The New York Post. Trump put forth the proposal at his daughter Tiffany Trump's wedding on Sunday, according to The New York Post. "Trump thought he could convince Ivanka this weekend to come back and campaign for him as she was the most requested speaker after the president himself last time around...but so far she's resisting his entreaties and holding firm, as is Jared," the publication noted. Read more: Tiffany, Donald Trump's daughter, marries beau Michael Boulos It added that both Ivanka and Jared feel, "they got burned in Washington and don’t want to go back and expose themselves and their children to another bitter campaign." During Trump's 2016 victorious presidential race, Ivanka and Jared played a pivotal part. Both remained in the inner circle of Trump for the next four years and had a decisive say in numerous policies of the former president. WATCH | United States: Ivanka Trump testifies in capitol riot probe × However, after Trump lost the 2020 election, the couple returned to their upscale, socialite, Indian Creek Island life in Miami. Both have been busy attending to social commitments with Jared recently releasing his memoir titled “Breaking History: A White House Memoir”. Notably, Trump has been facing a stiff contest from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis who some GOP leaders want to be projected as the next presidential candidate. The 'red wave' in the midterm elections was not as significant as Trump had promised in the run-up, further suggesting that his charisma was waning. Consequently, several voices inside GOP have suggested that Trump should not run for the 2024 election. However, Trump appears determined to give another crack to the position. As reported by WION, Trump's longtime advisor Jason Miller last week said that he "is going to announce on Tuesday that he is running for president." In Miller's words "it's gonna be a very professional, very buttoned-up announcement." Read more: Trump to make a 'very professional, very buttoned-up announcement' for presidential bid on Tuesday (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Donald Trump asks Ivanka and Jared to join him for campaign launch: Reports

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid9eQPVbrqis0W" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden on Wednesday signed the historic Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, which paves the way for healthcare facilities and coverage for millions of US military veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After signing the legislation, President Biden stated, “We owe you [veterans]. You’re the steel. You’re the sinew. You’re the very fiber that makes this country what it is.”</p>

<p>The Democrat leader further added, “The PACT Act is the least we can do for the countless men and women, many of whom may be in this room, for all I know, who suffered toxic exposure while serving their country.”</p>

<p><strong>GOP had tanked the bill earlier</strong></p>

<p>As reported by WION, the bill was tanked last month by the GOP lawmakers which invited widespread criticism. At the time, Republican senators such as Ted Cruz, Steve Daines and several others were seen fist bumping each other after tanking the bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video of the same had gone viral on social media platforms. Most of the netizens were of the view that the GOP senators should have kept their political differences aside and voted for a bill that was for the benefit of the veterans who protected the country.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Senate Republicans BLOCKED the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PACTAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PACTAct</a>, critical health care for veterans with illness caused by toxic burn pits.<br />
<br />
Even though many Republicans supported it just weeks ago.<br />
<br />
And they celebrated. <a href="https://t.co/fAWIVrwB0A">pic.twitter.com/fAWIVrwB0A</a></p>
— Senate Democrats (@SenateDems) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenateDems/status/1552773816027418625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-senators-fist-bump-after-tanking-a-healthcare-bill-for-military-veterans-502061" target="_blank">Republican senators fist-bump after tanking a healthcare bill for military veterans</a></p>

<p>However, after the controversy snowballed, the Republicans regrouped and decided on a change in strategy. Reportedly, the legislation was brought back to the house last week and it, fortunately, passed with an 86-11 vote.</p>

<p><strong>What is the PACT Act?</strong></p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that the PACT Act came into being after the death of Ohio soldier Heath Robinson in 2020. The army veteran was deployed in Kosovo and Iraq during his military days. However, the excessive exposure to burn pits led Robison to develop a rare form of lung cancer, which ultimately became the cause of his death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The burn pits used in west Asian countries like Afghanistan and Iraq were used to dispose of human waste, tires, chemicals, plastic waste, medical equipment and myriad other items. However, when the veterans complained about suffering life-threatening diseases due to the exposure, they were denied the claims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The passing of the legislation makes sure that veterans can avail the benefits and treat the illness without any more bottlenecks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


US President Joe Biden on Wednesday signed the historic Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, which paves the way for healthcare facilities and coverage for millions of US military veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their service.

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday signed the historic Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, which paves the way for healthcare facilities and coverage for millions of US military veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their service. After signing the legislation, President Biden stated, “We owe you [veterans]. You’re the steel. You’re the sinew. You’re the very fiber that makes this country what it is.” The Democrat leader further added, “The PACT Act is the least we can do for the countless men and women, many of whom may be in this room, for all I know, who suffered toxic exposure while serving their country.” GOP had tanked the bill earlier As reported by WION, the bill was tanked last month by the GOP lawmakers which invited widespread criticism. At the time, Republican senators such as Ted Cruz, Steve Daines and several others were seen fist bumping each other after tanking the bill. The video of the same had gone viral on social media platforms. Most of the netizens were of the view that the GOP senators should have kept their political differences aside and voted for a bill that was for the benefit of the veterans who protected the country. Senate Republicans BLOCKED the #PACTAct, critical health care for veterans with illness caused by toxic burn pits. Even though many Republicans supported it just weeks ago. And they celebrated. pic.twitter.com/fAWIVrwB0A — Senate Democrats (@SenateDems) July 28, 2022 × WATCH: Republican senators fist-bump after tanking a healthcare bill for military veterans However, after the controversy snowballed, the Republicans regrouped and decided on a change in strategy. Reportedly, the legislation was brought back to the house last week and it, fortunately, passed with an 86-11 vote. What is the PACT Act? It is pertinent to note that the PACT Act came into being after the death of Ohio soldier Heath Robinson in 2020. The army veteran was deployed in Kosovo and Iraq during his military days. However, the excessive exposure to burn pits led Robison to develop a rare form of lung cancer, which ultimately became the cause of his death. The burn pits used in west Asian countries like Afghanistan and Iraq were used to dispose of human waste, tires, chemicals, plastic waste, medical equipment and myriad other items. However, when the veterans complained about suffering life-threatening diseases due to the exposure, they were denied the claims. The passing of the legislation makes sure that veterans can avail the benefits and treat the illness without any more bottlenecks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden signs the healthcare bill for military veterans; Republicans finally come on board

<p>Republican senators Ted Cruz, Steve Daines and several others are being mocked on social media platforms after being seen fist-bumping each other as GOP tanked a veteran Healthcare Bill.</p>

<p>Reportedly, the senate had gathered to vote on the&nbsp;Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act which would have expanded the healthcare facilities and coverage to millions of military veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bill had received 'broadly bipartisan' support up until now. However,&nbsp;when the senate gathered to vote, it was blocked by the Republicans. 41 out of the 42 senators to vote against the bill were from the GOP.</p>

<p>After the vote, Texas senator Ted Cruz, Montana senator Steve Daines along with others were seen fist bumping and congratulating each other by shaking hands. The video of the incident was posted on the microblogging platform Twitter and immediately gained traction.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Senate Republicans BLOCKED the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PACTAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PACTAct</a>, critical health care for veterans with illness caused by toxic burn pits.<br />
<br />
Even though many Republicans supported it just weeks ago.<br />
<br />
And they celebrated. <a href="https://t.co/fAWIVrwB0A">pic.twitter.com/fAWIVrwB0A</a></p>
— Senate Democrats (@SenateDems) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenateDems/status/1552773816027418625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Most of the netizens were of the view that the GOP senators should have kept their political differences aside and voted for a bill that was for the benefit of the veterans who protected the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the controversy snowballed, Ted Cruz's office released a statement saying:&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote>
<p>"Senator Cruz is a strong supporter of the PACT Act and our nation's veterans. However, this version of the PACT Act contains an irresponsible Democratic provision allowing Congress&nbsp;to recklessly spend an additional $400 billion on programs totally unrelated to our veterans."</p>
</blockquote>

<p>It is pertinent to note that last month, 25 senators backed and supported the bill. The sudden u-turn of the senators suggests that it was another attempt by the GOP to settle political scores.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republicans-threaten-google-include-anti-abortion-crisis-pregnancy-centres-in-results-for-abortion-or-else-501345">Republicans threaten Google: Include 'anti-abortion' crisis pregnancy centres in results for abortion or else</a></p>

<p>The PACT Act came into being after&nbsp;the death of Ohio soldier&nbsp;Heath Robinson in 2020. The army veteran was deployed in Kosovo and Iraq during his military days. However, the excessive exposure to burn pits led Robison to develop a rare form of lung cancer, which ultimately&nbsp;became the cause of his death.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


Republican senators Ted Cruz, Steve Daines and several others are being mocked on social media platforms after being seen fist-bumping each other as GOP tanked a veteran Healthcare Bill.

Republican senators Ted Cruz, Steve Daines and several others are being mocked on social media platforms after being seen fist-bumping each other as GOP tanked a veteran Healthcare Bill. Reportedly, the senate had gathered to vote on the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act which would have expanded the healthcare facilities and coverage to millions of military veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their service. The bill had received 'broadly bipartisan' support up until now. However, when the senate gathered to vote, it was blocked by the Republicans. 41 out of the 42 senators to vote against the bill were from the GOP. After the vote, Texas senator Ted Cruz, Montana senator Steve Daines along with others were seen fist bumping and congratulating each other by shaking hands. The video of the incident was posted on the microblogging platform Twitter and immediately gained traction. Senate Republicans BLOCKED the #PACTAct, critical health care for veterans with illness caused by toxic burn pits. Even though many Republicans supported it just weeks ago. And they celebrated. pic.twitter.com/fAWIVrwB0A — Senate Democrats (@SenateDems) July 28, 2022 × Most of the netizens were of the view that the GOP senators should have kept their political differences aside and voted for a bill that was for the benefit of the veterans who protected the country. After the controversy snowballed, Ted Cruz's office released a statement saying: "Senator Cruz is a strong supporter of the PACT Act and our nation's veterans. However, this version of the PACT Act contains an irresponsible Democratic provision allowing Congress to recklessly spend an additional $400 billion on programs totally unrelated to our veterans." It is pertinent to note that last month, 25 senators backed and supported the bill. The sudden u-turn of the senators suggests that it was another attempt by the GOP to settle political scores. Read More: Republicans threaten Google: Include 'anti-abortion' crisis pregnancy centres in results for abortion or else The PACT Act came into being after the death of Ohio soldier Heath Robinson in 2020. The army veteran was deployed in Kosovo and Iraq during his military days. However, the excessive exposure to burn pits led Robison to develop a rare form of lung cancer, which ultimately became the cause of his death. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH: Republican senators fist-bump after tanking a healthcare bill for military veterans

<p>US Republican lawmakers on Tuesday released a report that revealed that China had been infiltrating the Federal Reserve for more than a decade. The European Union's proposal to curb gas use was met with disapproval from the member states. Meanwhile, Russia announced that it will withdraw from International Space Station.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-has-infiltrated-the-us-federal-reserve-for-over-a-decade-gop-lawmakers-in-a-report-500840">China has infiltrated the US Federal Reserve for over a decade: GOP lawmakers</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/05/259866-fed-res.jpg" /></p>

<p>According to a report prepared by the Republican staff of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, it has been revealed that the Federal Reserve does not have a system or the adequate resources to counter China, seeking to gather classified, inside information about USA's monetary policy and economy. The report revealed that China's efforts to infiltrate the US central bank had been ongoing for a decade at least.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-unity-in-european-union-member-nations-oppose-eus-gas-curb-proposal-500825">No unity in European Union? Member nations oppose EU's gas curb plans</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/04/08/253291-eu.jpg" /></p>

<p>The proposal put forth by the European Union to cut gas use by 15 per cent in anticipation of possible Russian supply cuts, has been met with disapproval from member countries.&nbsp;rance, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Ireland, Portugal and Malta among other countries demanded the EU give the member nations a chance to present their opinion about the proposal, or perhaps even, a veto power.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/russia-says-it-will-quit-iss-after-2024-shows-plans-of-new-station-500883">Russia says it will quit ISS after 2024, shows plans of 'new station'</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/26/282145-international-space-station.png" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopra-out-of-cwg22-after-stupendous-run-since-tokyo-2020-javelin-stars-misfortune-catches-up-500802">Neeraj Chopra out of CWG'22: After stupendous run since Tokyo 2020, javelin star's misfortune catches up</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/26/282090-neeraj-chopra-out-of-cwg-2022-javelin-throwers-misfortune-catches-up.jpg" /></p>

<p>India were dealt a huge blow ahead of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. , Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, touted as one of the strongest medal contenders for CWG 2022 was ruled out of the showpiece event due to a groin injury&nbsp;during the men's javelin throw final in the World Athletics Championships, where he attained a silver medal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WATCH<strong>:&nbsp;WION Exclusive: 'You have to believe in yourself,' says Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-you-have-to-believe-in-yourself-says-olympic-champion-neeraj-chopra-500246/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-civilians-helped-indian-army-to-throw-out-pak-intruders-during-the-1999-kargil-war-500781">How civilians helped Indian Army to throw out Pak intruders in Kargil war</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/26/282087-army.jpg" /></p>

<p>Victory is assured when the civilians join hands with the army. The Kargil victory was possible not only because of the brave soldiers, the civilians, too, played a major role in throwing out the intruders.&nbsp;Notably, the civilians did not fight with weapons, but their role&nbsp;was&nbsp;as important as that of an Indian soldier.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India pays homage to martyr soldiers of the Kargil war</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-pays-homage-to-martyr-soldiers-of-the-kargil-war-500804/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-man-makes-a-plane-for-family-during-lockdown-and-travels-to-europe-in-it-500855">Believe it or not: This Indian man made a plane during lockdown and flew family to Europe</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/26/282137-ashok-aliseril-thamarakshan.jpg" /></p>

<p>London-based Ashok Aliseril Thamarakshan, a native of Alappuzha in the Southern Indian State of Kerala&nbsp;has successfully constructed a four-seater aeroplane in a project that took close to 18 months to complete. Now, Thamarakshan and his wife fly around the UK and Europe in their home-built aircraft, along with their two daughters.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-slams-pak-chinas-proposal-to-invite-third-countries-in-cpec-projects-500680">India slams Pak-China’s proposal to invite third countries in CPEC projects</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/26/282012-pak.jpg" /></p>

<p>India has taken umbrage at the invitation extended by Pakistan and China, allowing third countries to join and invest in the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects—a pet project of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).&nbsp;India’s response came days after the third meeting of the CPEC Joint Working Group (JWG) on International Cooperation and Coordination (JWG-ICC) where all-weather allies Pakistan and China expressed interest in inviting other countries to make investments in the project.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-lovlina-olympic-medalist-bajrang-punia-slams-officials-over-his-physios-non-inclusion-for-cwg-2022-500859">After Lovlina, Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia slams officials over his physio's non-inclusion for CWG 2022</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/26/282138-bajrang-punia-slams-officials-over-his-physios-non-inclusion-for-cwg22.jpg" /></p>

<p>India's wrestler Bajrang Punia -- who claimed a bronze medal in Tokyo 2020 -- has come forward and slammed the officials for his physio's non-inclusion. He has pointed out that the IOA has not granted an United Kingdom (UK) visa to his physio, who was with him for training in the United States of America (USA) as well.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-avengers-the-kang-dynasty-and-avengers-secret-wars-what-do-those-titles-mean-500784">'Avengers: The Kang Dynasty' and 'Avengers: Secret Wars': What do those titles mean?</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/26/282088-secret-wars-kang-dynasty-1200.jpg" /></p>

<p>Marvel Studios has announced the titles of the next two movies in the Avengers series.&nbsp;While the fourth Avengers movie is called 'Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, the fifth Avengers movie is called 'Avengers: Secret Wars. Marvel Studios will be expecting to recreate the success of Infinity War and Endgame Made on a staggering combined budget of $500 million, the movie also delivered in spades. However, what do the new titles mean going ahead in the Avengers universe?</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Major marvel announcements from Comic-Con 2022: Black Panther trailer, Phase 6 &amp; much more!</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/major-marvel-announcements-from-comic-con-2022-black-panther-trailer-phase-6-much-more-500892/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-nasa-is-being-pressured-to-change-james-webb-space-telescopes-name-500753">Why NASA is being pressured to change James Webb space telescope's name</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/06/09/269212-telescope.jpg" /></p>

<p>James Webb, after whom the observatory was named, was a celebrated NASA administrator and he was well known for heading the Apollo program.&nbsp;During his tenure as the top official in NASA, three Apollo I astronauts lost their lives during a 1967 ground test in Florida.&nbsp;The other major accusation plaguing his name is Webb’s role in the ‘Lavender Scare’ – a period of time in US history when a number of homosexual people were removed from government positions.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


US Republican lawmakers on Tuesday released a report that revealed that China had been infiltrating the Federal Reserve for more than a decade. The European Union's proposal to curb gas use was met with disapproval from the member states.

US Republican lawmakers on Tuesday released a report that revealed that China had been infiltrating the Federal Reserve for more than a decade. The European Union's proposal to curb gas use was met with disapproval from the member states. Meanwhile, Russia announced that it will withdraw from International Space Station. Click on the headlines to read more: China has infiltrated the US Federal Reserve for over a decade: GOP lawmakers According to a report prepared by the Republican staff of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, it has been revealed that the Federal Reserve does not have a system or the adequate resources to counter China, seeking to gather classified, inside information about USA's monetary policy and economy. The report revealed that China's efforts to infiltrate the US central bank had been ongoing for a decade at least. No unity in European Union? Member nations oppose EU's gas curb plans The proposal put forth by the European Union to cut gas use by 15 per cent in anticipation of possible Russian supply cuts, has been met with disapproval from member countries. rance, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Ireland, Portugal and Malta among other countries demanded the EU give the member nations a chance to present their opinion about the proposal, or perhaps even, a veto power. Russia says it will quit ISS after 2024, shows plans of 'new station' Neeraj Chopra out of CWG'22: After stupendous run since Tokyo 2020, javelin star's misfortune catches up India were dealt a huge blow ahead of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. , Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, touted as one of the strongest medal contenders for CWG 2022 was ruled out of the showpiece event due to a groin injury during the men's javelin throw final in the World Athletics Championships, where he attained a silver medal. WATCH: WION Exclusive: 'You have to believe in yourself,' says Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra × How civilians helped Indian Army to throw out Pak intruders in Kargil war Victory is assured when the civilians join hands with the army. The Kargil victory was possible not only because of the brave soldiers, the civilians, too, played a major role in throwing out the intruders. Notably, the civilians did not fight with weapons, but their role was as important as that of an Indian soldier. Watch: India pays homage to martyr soldiers of the Kargil war × Believe it or not: This Indian man made a plane during lockdown and flew family to Europe London-based Ashok Aliseril Thamarakshan, a native of Alappuzha in the Southern Indian State of Kerala has successfully constructed a four-seater aeroplane in a project that took close to 18 months to complete. Now, Thamarakshan and his wife fly around the UK and Europe in their home-built aircraft, along with their two daughters. India slams Pak-China’s proposal to invite third countries in CPEC projects India has taken umbrage at the invitation extended by Pakistan and China, allowing third countries to join and invest in the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects—a pet project of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). India’s response came days after the third meeting of the CPEC Joint Working Group (JWG) on International Cooperation and Coordination (JWG-ICC) where all-weather allies Pakistan and China expressed interest in inviting other countries to make investments in the project. After Lovlina, Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia slams officials over his physio's non-inclusion for CWG 2022 India's wrestler Bajrang Punia -- who claimed a bronze medal in Tokyo 2020 -- has come forward and slammed the officials for his physio's non-inclusion. He has pointed out that the IOA has not granted an United Kingdom (UK) visa to his physio, who was with him for training in the United States of America (USA) as well. 'Avengers: The Kang Dynasty' and 'Avengers: Secret Wars': What do those titles mean? Marvel Studios has announced the titles of the next two movies in the Avengers series. While the fourth Avengers movie is called 'Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, the fifth Avengers movie is called 'Avengers: Secret Wars. Marvel Studios will be expecting to recreate the success of Infinity War and Endgame Made on a staggering combined budget of $500 million, the movie also delivered in spades. However, what do the new titles mean going ahead in the Avengers universe? Watch: Major marvel announcements from Comic-Con 2022: Black Panther trailer, Phase 6 & much more! × Why NASA is being pressured to change James Webb space telescope's name James Webb, after whom the observatory was named, was a celebrated NASA administrator and he was well known for heading the Apollo program. During his tenure as the top official in NASA, three Apollo I astronauts lost their lives during a 1967 ground test in Florida. The other major accusation plaguing his name is Webb’s role in the ‘Lavender Scare’ – a period of time in US history when a number of homosexual people were removed from government positions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Top 10 world news:US claims China has infiltrated its central bank, Russia says it will quit ISS & more

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for Russia to be officially recognised as a ''terrorist state'' during his meeting with a US Senate GOP delegation.</p>

<p>Mitch McConnell, the top Republican in the US Senate, who is pressing Republican Senator Rand Paul to end his opposition to a $40 billion aid package for Ukraine, paid an unannounced visit to Kyiv and met Zelensky.</p>

<p>Hailing the strength of relations between the two nations, Zelensky said "We discussed many areas of support for our state, including in defence and finance, as well as strengthening sanctions against Russia."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He posted a video of his meeting with McConnell on Instagram, who was accompanied by fellow Senators Susan Collins, John Barrasso and John Cornyn, and in its caption said "Thank you for your leadership in helping us in our struggle not only for our country, but also for democratic values and freedoms. We really appreciate it."</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CdiZsDvIAT7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CdiZsDvIAT7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CdiZsDvIAT7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CdiZsDvIAT7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Володимир Зеленський (@zelenskiy_official)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<p>The Ukrainian leader "expressed hope that the US Senate will promptly approve a package of additional funding to support the Ukrainian people," as per a statement posted on Zelensky's official website.</p>

<p>Calling it an honour to Zelensky, McConnell said "that the United States stands squarely behind Ukraine and will sustain our support until Ukraine wins this war. It is also essential that America not stand alone."</p>

<p>"It is squarely in our national interest to help Ukraine achieve victory in this war and to help Ukraine and other countries deter other wars of aggression before they start," he added.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-under-attack-defenders-of-mariupol-reject-russian-offer-to-surrender-478984/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>After McConnell's meeting with Zelensky, the Tass news agency reported that Moscow's ambassador to the United States warned against closer cooperation with Ukraine.</p>

<p>Tass quoted Anatoly Antonov as telling Russian television "The United States is getting dragged ever deeper into a conflict with the most unpredictable consequences for relations between the two nuclear powers."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, US President Joe Biden's wife Jill Biden, and US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Kyiv to show their support.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><strong>Watch WION's live TV here:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for Russia to be officially recognised as a ''terrorist state'' during his meeting with a US Senate GOP delegation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for Russia to be officially recognised as a ''terrorist state'' during his meeting with a US Senate GOP delegation. Mitch McConnell, the top Republican in the US Senate, who is pressing Republican Senator Rand Paul to end his opposition to a $40 billion aid package for Ukraine, paid an unannounced visit to Kyiv and met Zelensky. Hailing the strength of relations between the two nations, Zelensky said "We discussed many areas of support for our state, including in defence and finance, as well as strengthening sanctions against Russia." He posted a video of his meeting with McConnell on Instagram, who was accompanied by fellow Senators Susan Collins, John Barrasso and John Cornyn, and in its caption said "Thank you for your leadership in helping us in our struggle not only for our country, but also for democratic values and freedoms. We really appreciate it." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Володимир Зеленський (@zelenskiy_official) The Ukrainian leader "expressed hope that the US Senate will promptly approve a package of additional funding to support the Ukrainian people," as per a statement posted on Zelensky's official website. Calling it an honour to Zelensky, McConnell said "that the United States stands squarely behind Ukraine and will sustain our support until Ukraine wins this war. It is also essential that America not stand alone." "It is squarely in our national interest to help Ukraine achieve victory in this war and to help Ukraine and other countries deter other wars of aggression before they start," he added. After McConnell's meeting with Zelensky, the Tass news agency reported that Moscow's ambassador to the United States warned against closer cooperation with Ukraine. Tass quoted Anatoly Antonov as telling Russian television "The United States is getting dragged ever deeper into a conflict with the most unpredictable consequences for relations between the two nuclear powers." Previously, US President Joe Biden's wife Jill Biden, and US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Kyiv to show their support. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Top Senate Republican meets Zelensky; Ukraine calls for recognition of Russia as 'terrorist state'

<p>Usually, it’s the party out of power that frets about whether it will ever win again. This time, it’s the party in control of government that’s staring into the political wilderness.</p>

<p>Democrats now have a Washington trifecta — command of the White House and both chambers of Congress. If the results of last week’s elections in Virginia and elsewhere are any indication, they may not retain it after next November’s midterm elections. And a decade or longer may pass before they win a trifecta again.</p>

<p>The unusual structure of American government, combined with the electorate’s reflexive instinct to check the party in power, makes it hard for any party to retain a hold on both the White House and Congress for long.</p>

<p>Since World War II, political parties have waited an average of 14 years to regain full control of government after losing it. Only one president — Harry Truman — has lost Congress and retaken it later. In every other case, the president’s party regained a trifecta only after losing the White House.</p>

<p>It would be foolish to predict the next decade of election results. Still, today’s Democrats will have a hard time defying this long history. Not only do the Democrats have especially slim majorities, but they face a series of structural disadvantages in the House and the Senate that make it difficult to translate popular vote majorities into governing majorities.</p>

<p>The specter of divided government is a bitter one for Democrats.</p>

<p>The party has won the national popular vote in seven of the last eight presidential elections but has nonetheless struggled to amass enough power to enact its agenda. That has added to the high stakes in the ongoing negotiations over the large Democratic spending package, which increasingly looks like a last chance for progressives to push an ambitious agenda.</p>

<p>And it has helped spur the kind of acrimonious internal Democratic debate over the party’s message and strategy that would usually follow an electoral defeat, with moderates and progressives clashing over whether the party’s highly educated activist base needs to take a back seat for the party to cling to its majority. The strong Republican showing in Virginia and New Jersey last week has prompted yet another round of recriminations.</p>

<p>But with such a long history of the president’s party struggling to hold on to power, one wonders whether any policy, tactic or message might help Democrats escape divided government.</p>

<p>The political winds seem to blow against the president’s party almost as soon as a new party seizes the White House. For decades, political scientists have observed a so-called thermostatic backlash in public opinion, in which voters instinctively move to turn down the temperature when government runs too hot in either party’s favor. The pattern dates back as long as survey research and helps explain why the election of Barack Obama led to the Tea Party, or how Donald Trump’s election led to record support for immigration.</p>

<p>The president’s party faces additional burdens at the ballot box. A sliver of voters prefers gridlock and divided government and votes for a check and balance against the president. And the party out of power tends to enjoy a turnout advantage, whether because the president’s opponents are resolved to stop his agenda or because of complacency by the president’s supporters.</p>

<p>While Democrats can still hope to avoid losing control of Congress in 2022, Biden’s sagging approval ratings make it seem increasingly unlikely that they will. Historically, only presidents with strong approval ratings have managed to avoid the midterm curse. And with Democrats holding only the most tenuous majorities in the House and the Senate, any losses at all would be enough to break the trifecta.</p>

<p>If the Democrats are going to get a trifecta again, 2024 would seem to be their best chance. The president’s party usually bounces back when the president seeks reelection, perhaps because presidential elections offer a clear choice between two sides, not merely a referendum on the party in power. And in the House, a Democratic rebound in 2024 is very easy to imagine, even if far from assured.</p>

<p>The Senate, however, may be a different and ultimately bleaker story for Democrats.</p>

<p>In the short term, the president’s party is relatively insulated from midterm losses in the Senate, since only one-third of the seats are up for grabs. And the president’s party usually doesn’t have to defend much in its first midterm, as it has often already lost many of the contested seats six years earlier — when the party out of power fared well en route to last winning the White House. The same thing insulates some Democratic losses in 2022.</p>

<p>But if 2024 represents an opening for a Democratic bounce-back in the House, it may not offer as favorable an opportunity in the Senate. Democrats will have no opportunity to reclaim any Senate seats they might lose in 2022. And they will need to defend the seats they won six years earlier, in their 2018 midterm rout, including some in otherwise reliably Republican states such as West Virginia, Ohio and Montana. To hold or regain the Senate — and a trifecta — they might need all of those seats.</p>

<p>The Democratic grip on the Senate is dependent on holding Republican-leaning states because the Democrats are at a significant disadvantage in the chamber. The party tends to excel in a relatively small number of populous states, but every state receives two senators, regardless of population.</p>

<p>The size of the Democratic disadvantage in the Senate can be overstated: Biden won 25 states, after all, and the Democrats control the chamber today by the margin of Vice President Kamala Harris’ tiebreaking vote.</p>

<p>But the Democratic majority is tenuous, and there are few opportunities to solidify it: There are only 27 states where Biden was within 5 points of victory in 2020. And since there are only 19 states where Biden won by more than he did nationwide, Republicans could easily flip many seats if they benefit from a favorable political environment.</p>

<p>With Republicans commanding such formidable structural advantages in the chamber, some Democrats fear they could be reduced to just 43 Senate seats by the end of the 2024 election. If Biden won reelection, Republicans could claim even more seats in 2026. The path back to a Democratic trifecta would be daunting.</p>

<p>Even if Democrats do hold down their Senate losses next year, it would still be a long road back to control of the chamber. They might struggle to win it back until there’s a new Republican president, when the benefits of being the party out of power will again work to their advantage.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Usually, it’s the party out of power that frets about whether it will ever win again. This time, it’s the party in control of government that’s staring into the political wilderness.

Usually, it’s the party out of power that frets about whether it will ever win again. This time, it’s the party in control of government that’s staring into the political wilderness. Democrats now have a Washington trifecta — command of the White House and both chambers of Congress. If the results of last week’s elections in Virginia and elsewhere are any indication, they may not retain it after next November’s midterm elections. And a decade or longer may pass before they win a trifecta again. The unusual structure of American government, combined with the electorate’s reflexive instinct to check the party in power, makes it hard for any party to retain a hold on both the White House and Congress for long. Since World War II, political parties have waited an average of 14 years to regain full control of government after losing it. Only one president — Harry Truman — has lost Congress and retaken it later. In every other case, the president’s party regained a trifecta only after losing the White House. It would be foolish to predict the next decade of election results. Still, today’s Democrats will have a hard time defying this long history. Not only do the Democrats have especially slim majorities, but they face a series of structural disadvantages in the House and the Senate that make it difficult to translate popular vote majorities into governing majorities. The specter of divided government is a bitter one for Democrats. The party has won the national popular vote in seven of the last eight presidential elections but has nonetheless struggled to amass enough power to enact its agenda. That has added to the high stakes in the ongoing negotiations over the large Democratic spending package, which increasingly looks like a last chance for progressives to push an ambitious agenda. And it has helped spur the kind of acrimonious internal Democratic debate over the party’s message and strategy that would usually follow an electoral defeat, with moderates and progressives clashing over whether the party’s highly educated activist base needs to take a back seat for the party to cling to its majority. The strong Republican showing in Virginia and New Jersey last week has prompted yet another round of recriminations. But with such a long history of the president’s party struggling to hold on to power, one wonders whether any policy, tactic or message might help Democrats escape divided government. The political winds seem to blow against the president’s party almost as soon as a new party seizes the White House. For decades, political scientists have observed a so-called thermostatic backlash in public opinion, in which voters instinctively move to turn down the temperature when government runs too hot in either party’s favor. The pattern dates back as long as survey research and helps explain why the election of Barack Obama led to the Tea Party, or how Donald Trump’s election led to record support for immigration. The president’s party faces additional burdens at the ballot box. A sliver of voters prefers gridlock and divided government and votes for a check and balance against the president. And the party out of power tends to enjoy a turnout advantage, whether because the president’s opponents are resolved to stop his agenda or because of complacency by the president’s supporters. While Democrats can still hope to avoid losing control of Congress in 2022, Biden’s sagging approval ratings make it seem increasingly unlikely that they will. Historically, only presidents with strong approval ratings have managed to avoid the midterm curse. And with Democrats holding only the most tenuous majorities in the House and the Senate, any losses at all would be enough to break the trifecta. If the Democrats are going to get a trifecta again, 2024 would seem to be their best chance. The president’s party usually bounces back when the president seeks reelection, perhaps because presidential elections offer a clear choice between two sides, not merely a referendum on the party in power. And in the House, a Democratic rebound in 2024 is very easy to imagine, even if far from assured. The Senate, however, may be a different and ultimately bleaker story for Democrats. In the short term, the president’s party is relatively insulated from midterm losses in the Senate, since only one-third of the seats are up for grabs. And the president’s party usually doesn’t have to defend much in its first midterm, as it has often already lost many of the contested seats six years earlier — when the party out of power fared well en route to last winning the White House. The same thing insulates some Democratic losses in 2022. But if 2024 represents an opening for a Democratic bounce-back in the House, it may not offer as favorable an opportunity in the Senate. Democrats will have no opportunity to reclaim any Senate seats they might lose in 2022. And they will need to defend the seats they won six years earlier, in their 2018 midterm rout, including some in otherwise reliably Republican states such as West Virginia, Ohio and Montana. To hold or regain the Senate — and a trifecta — they might need all of those seats. The Democratic grip on the Senate is dependent on holding Republican-leaning states because the Democrats are at a significant disadvantage in the chamber. The party tends to excel in a relatively small number of populous states, but every state receives two senators, regardless of population. The size of the Democratic disadvantage in the Senate can be overstated: Biden won 25 states, after all, and the Democrats control the chamber today by the margin of Vice President Kamala Harris’ tiebreaking vote. But the Democratic majority is tenuous, and there are few opportunities to solidify it: There are only 27 states where Biden was within 5 points of victory in 2020. And since there are only 19 states where Biden won by more than he did nationwide, Republicans could easily flip many seats if they benefit from a favorable political environment. With Republicans commanding such formidable structural advantages in the chamber, some Democrats fear they could be reduced to just 43 Senate seats by the end of the 2024 election. If Biden won reelection, Republicans could claim even more seats in 2026. The path back to a Democratic trifecta would be daunting. Even if Democrats do hold down their Senate losses next year, it would still be a long road back to control of the chamber. They might struggle to win it back until there’s a new Republican president, when the benefits of being the party out of power will again work to their advantage.

Why Democrats may have a long wait if they lose their grip on Washington

<p>Nearly 80 per cent of Republicans want former President Donald Trump to run in the US election 2024 as per a new poll.</p>

<p>The survey conducted by Quinnipiac University shows that Trump enjoys robust backing by the Republican Party or the GOP.</p>

<p>However, 94 per cent of Democrats believe running again in 2024 will be a waste of time for Trump. This opinion was also supported by 58 independents in the opinion poll.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, GOP Senator Bill Cassidy said in an interview that he will not vote for Trump if decides to run again in the next election.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2024-former-us-president-donald-trump-favourite-candidate-biden-lagging-behind-420648"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US election 2024: Former US President Donald Trump favourite candidate, Biden lagging behind</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier, a UK-based betting exchange company called Smarkets has predicted that Trump, for the first time, has edged ahead of his predecessor Joe Biden.</p>

<p>It had also been predicted that Trump has the highest chances of winning the 2024 election and returning to the White House.</p>

<p>Biden who is the second place with 19 per cent votes as per a poll conducted by the website, is followed by Vice-President Kamala Harris with 13 per cent votes.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hows-biden-doing-do-you-miss-me-yet-trump-pokes-fun-at-us-president-420630">Also read |&nbsp;'How's Biden doing? 'Do you miss me yet?': Trump pokes fun at US President</a></strong></p>

<p>Poking fun at Biden, Trump's spokesperson, Liz Harrington had asked on Twitter, ''How’s Biden doing? Do you miss me yet?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trump has hinted at a possible presidential run in 2024, attacking Biden and repeating his fraudulent claims he won the 2020 election.</p>

<p>Trump's flirtation with another run could freeze the Republican field for 2024 as other potential candidates try to decide whether they will have to compete against him.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a US congressional committee probing the deadly January 6 assault on the Capitol voted unanimously in favour of contempt-of-Congress charges against Steve Bannon, a longtime aide to Trump.</p>

<p>The seven Democratic and two Republican members of the House of Representatives Select Committee approved a report recommending the criminal charge by a unanimous 9-0 vote, calling it "shocking" that Bannon refused to comply with subpoenas seeking documents and testimony.</p>


Nearly 80 per cent of Republicans want former President Donald Trump to run in the US election 2024 as per a new poll. The survey conducted by Quinnipiac University shows that Trump enjoys robust backing by the Republican Party or the GOP.

Nearly 80 per cent of Republicans want former President Donald Trump to run in the US election 2024 as per a new poll. The survey conducted by Quinnipiac University shows that Trump enjoys robust backing by the Republican Party or the GOP. However, 94 per cent of Democrats believe running again in 2024 will be a waste of time for Trump. This opinion was also supported by 58 independents in the opinion poll. Meanwhile, GOP Senator Bill Cassidy said in an interview that he will not vote for Trump if decides to run again in the next election. Also read | US election 2024: Former US President Donald Trump favourite candidate, Biden lagging behind Earlier, a UK-based betting exchange company called Smarkets has predicted that Trump, for the first time, has edged ahead of his predecessor Joe Biden. It had also been predicted that Trump has the highest chances of winning the 2024 election and returning to the White House. Biden who is the second place with 19 per cent votes as per a poll conducted by the website, is followed by Vice-President Kamala Harris with 13 per cent votes. Also read | 'How's Biden doing? 'Do you miss me yet?': Trump pokes fun at US President Poking fun at Biden, Trump's spokesperson, Liz Harrington had asked on Twitter, ''How’s Biden doing? Do you miss me yet?" Trump has hinted at a possible presidential run in 2024, attacking Biden and repeating his fraudulent claims he won the 2020 election. Trump's flirtation with another run could freeze the Republican field for 2024 as other potential candidates try to decide whether they will have to compete against him. Meanwhile, a US congressional committee probing the deadly January 6 assault on the Capitol voted unanimously in favour of contempt-of-Congress charges against Steve Bannon, a longtime aide to Trump. The seven Democratic and two Republican members of the House of Representatives Select Committee approved a report recommending the criminal charge by a unanimous 9-0 vote, calling it "shocking" that Bannon refused to comply with subpoenas seeking documents and testimony.

US election 2024: Poll shows 80% Republicans want Donald Trump to run

<p>Texas Democrats fled the state Monday in a last-ditch effort to prevent the passage of a restrictive new voting law by the Republican-controlled Legislature, heading to Washington to draw national attention to their cause.</p>

<p>The group left Austin, Texas, in midafternoon on a pair of chartered flights that arrived at Dulles International Airport just before sunset. Fifty-one of the 67 state House Democrats flew on the planes, leaders of the delegation said, and several others arrived separately in Washington; that’s enough to prevent Texas Republicans from attaining a quorum, which is required to conduct state business.</p>

<p>The hastily arranged departure added a cinematic element to the partisan wrangling in a state with a colorful political history. Democrats have fled to neighboring states in the past to try to block legislation, including in 2003, when they traveled to New Mexico and Oklahoma in an effort to avoid Republican attempts to redraw congressional districts.</p>

<p>The move could paralyze the Legislature for weeks if Democrats remain out of state until this special session ends in August. Still, it lays bare their limited options long term in a Legislature where the Republicans hold the majority in both chambers. Parliamentary procedures and efforts to add amendments can delay the process but not derail it. Republicans said Monday the Democrats’ gambit would ultimately fail.</p>

<p>State Rep. Briscoe Cain, a Houston-area Republican who chairs the House Elections Committee, said Democrats’ departure “slows things down” but would not prevent Republicans from prevailing.</p>

<p>“It’s just delaying the inevitable,” said State Representative Briscoe Cain, a Houston-area Republican who chairs the House Elections Committee. He described the move as “political theater.”</p>

<p>“We will eventually get it done, this special or another,” he added.</p>

<p>Nevertheless, by traveling en masse to Washington, the Texas Democrats were hoping to apply pressure to Democrats in the U.S. Senate who so far have been unable to pass federal legislation to address the issue.</p>

<p>On Monday night, members of the Texas delegation reiterated their resolve in a 15-minute news conference from an airport parking lot, which concluded with members singing the chorus of “We Shall Overcome.”</p>

<p>The group has scheduled a news conference for 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Capitol, but has no concrete plans in Washington beyond that.</p>


Texas Democrats fled the state Monday in a last-ditch effort to prevent the passage of a restrictive new voting law by the Republican-controlled Legislature, heading to Washington to draw national attention to their cause.

Texas Democrats fled the state Monday in a last-ditch effort to prevent the passage of a restrictive new voting law by the Republican-controlled Legislature, heading to Washington to draw national attention to their cause. The group left Austin, Texas, in midafternoon on a pair of chartered flights that arrived at Dulles International Airport just before sunset. Fifty-one of the 67 state House Democrats flew on the planes, leaders of the delegation said, and several others arrived separately in Washington; that’s enough to prevent Texas Republicans from attaining a quorum, which is required to conduct state business. The hastily arranged departure added a cinematic element to the partisan wrangling in a state with a colorful political history. Democrats have fled to neighboring states in the past to try to block legislation, including in 2003, when they traveled to New Mexico and Oklahoma in an effort to avoid Republican attempts to redraw congressional districts. The move could paralyze the Legislature for weeks if Democrats remain out of state until this special session ends in August. Still, it lays bare their limited options long term in a Legislature where the Republicans hold the majority in both chambers. Parliamentary procedures and efforts to add amendments can delay the process but not derail it. Republicans said Monday the Democrats’ gambit would ultimately fail. State Rep. Briscoe Cain, a Houston-area Republican who chairs the House Elections Committee, said Democrats’ departure “slows things down” but would not prevent Republicans from prevailing. “It’s just delaying the inevitable,” said State Representative Briscoe Cain, a Houston-area Republican who chairs the House Elections Committee. He described the move as “political theater.” “We will eventually get it done, this special or another,” he added. Nevertheless, by traveling en masse to Washington, the Texas Democrats were hoping to apply pressure to Democrats in the U.S. Senate who so far have been unable to pass federal legislation to address the issue. On Monday night, members of the Texas delegation reiterated their resolve in a 15-minute news conference from an airport parking lot, which concluded with members singing the chorus of “We Shall Overcome.” The group has scheduled a news conference for 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Capitol, but has no concrete plans in Washington beyond that.

Texas Democrats flee state to block voting restriction legislation

<p>WASHINGTON — It was a familiar play by Donald Trump: lashing out at his enemies and trying to raise money from it.</p>

<p>The former president this week escalated a standoff over the Republican Party’s financial future, blasting party leaders and urging his backers to send donations to his new political action committee — not to the institutional groups that traditionally control the GOP’s coffers.</p>

<p>“No more money for RINOS,” he said in a statement released Monday by his bare-bones post-presidential office, referring to Republicans In Name Only. He directed donors to his own website instead.</p>

<p>The aggressive move against his own party is the latest sign that Trump is trying to wrest control of the low-dollar online fundraising juggernaut he helped create, diverting it from Republican fundraising groups toward his own committee, which has virtually no restrictions on how the money can be spent.</p>

<p>Last week, Trump sent cease-and-desist letters — which appear to have little legal standing — to the Republican National Committee, the National Republican Congressional Committee and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, warning them not to appeal to donors using his name and image.</p>

<p>The jockeying comes as the party struggles to chart its path forward after losing the House, the Senate and the White House during Trump’s tenure, with moderate party leaders pushing the party to move beyond the divisive former president while much of the GOP base remains firmly behind him. Who controls a majority of donors’ cash is set to be a fiercely contested point of dispute as Republicans try to regroup and take back power in the 2022 midterm elections.</p>

<p>What’s more, Trump’s advisers believe the future of party fundraising is in low-dollar contributions, not the class of major donors who have mostly signaled that they want distance from him after his monthslong push falsely claiming that the Nov. 3 election had been stolen, which led to the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol.</p>

<p>Trump’s maneuvering is born partly out of his anger toward Republican leaders who he feels were disloyal when they edged away from him after Jan. 6. The former president is also being encouraged by people like Dick Morris, the notorious political consultant known for flipping between the parties, who has been meeting with him in New York and encouraging him to take on the party he once led.</p>

<p>Trump’s actions could give him a stream of money at a time when his private company is struggling under the scrutiny of investigations, with some discussions of whether properties need to be sold. His business is now politics, and political action committees have few restrictions on how they operate and use their money, according to campaign finance experts.</p>

<p>The former president could, in theory, pay himself and his family members salaries from the money raised there.</p>

<p>“That sort of PAC has no meaningful restrictions on how it could spend its money,” said Adav Noti, the senior director of trial litigation at the Campaign Legal Center.</p>

<p>People close to the former president say there has been no discussion about Trump giving himself a salary. But historically, his political committees have paid to use his properties, among other things, indirectly enriching him.</p>

<p>Republican fundraising groups have pushed back against the former president. In a letter Monday responding to the cease-and-desist request by Trump’s committee, Justin Riemer, the chief counsel for the RNC, stated, “The RNC, of course, has every right to refer to public figures as it engages in core, First Amendment-protected political speech, and it will continue to do so in pursuit of those common goals.”</p>

<p>But in a sign of the delicate dance between Trump and a Republican Party fearful of alienating its most popular figure, Riemer also said that the RNC had not and would not make fundraising appeals using Trump’s name or likeness without his approval.</p>

<p>And on Tuesday night, Trump released a second statement walking back his earlier attacks on the Republican committees.</p>

<p>“I fully support the Republican Party and important GOP Committees, but I do not support RINOs and fools, and it is not their right to use my likeness or image to raise funds,” he said. But even as he tried to clarify that he supported his party, he gave another plug for his own group. “If you donate to our Save America PAC at DonaldJTrump.com, you are helping the America First movement and doing it right,” he said.</p>

<p>For now, aides said, Trump’s plan is to stockpile money so he can remain a force in politics and help candidates challenging dissident Republicans like Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, who supported impeaching him this year.</p>

<p>Trump, along with the national party, raised roughly $250 million between Election Day and President Joe Biden’s inauguration. More than $60 million of that went to a new political action committee. That committee and the former president’s campaign committee were both converted to linked political action committees. Trump’s aides said this week that they had not yet started to send fundraising solicitations since he left office, but planned to do so in the coming days.</p>

<p>The Republican clash could resonate particularly in the House.</p>

<p>If Trump is successful in persuading donors to give money to him instead of supporting Republican House candidates directly, he could cause problems for Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the minority leader, who is trying to take back the House in two years. He needs to flip five seats to do so.</p>

<p>“If you control the money, you control the party,” said Dan Eberhart, a Republican donor.</p>

<p>Some Republican strategists noted that less than a decade ago, Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah, the party’s 2012 presidential nominee, was the biggest fundraising name in GOP politics. Now he barely recognizes his party.</p>

<p>The strategists played down the threat Trump poses to Republican fundraising. “The donors that are unique to him who would be affected by that message are people who wouldn’t have donated in the first place,” said Josh Holmes, a political adviser to Sen. Mitch McConnell, the Senate minority leader.</p>

<p>Holmes also said that as the Biden administration rolled out new policies like a nearly $2 trillion relief bill, Republicans would coalesce in opposition and develop new fundraising constituencies.</p>

<p>“In midterms, you raise a lot of money out of opposition to an administration and policy,” Holmes said. “In presidential years, it becomes more of a face and name of each of the parties. We’re naturally entering a different era of fundraising.”</p>

<p>So far, all Trump’s organization has done is release endorsements for loyalists in key states, like Gov. Henry McMaster of South Carolina, who is running for reelection. But longtime party fundraisers see that as a reminder by Trump to those lawmakers that they need to stick with him, or else he could pull his endorsement down the road.</p>

<p>Trump aides were split over whether the RNC should have received the threatening letter at all. Ronna McDaniel, the group’s chairwoman, won her job in large part because of Trump’s support. Some of his aides told her that Trump himself had not known that she received one of the threatening letters.</p>

<p>There have historically been tensions between some of Trump’s advisers and RNC officials. But in a phone call with McDaniel over the weekend to smooth over the relationship, Trump played down any intent to directly target the RNC or prevent it from reaching its donors. The takeaway from an overall pleasant conversation, people familiar with the call said, was that Trump was still supportive of Republican donors’ giving money to the RNC and that he did not plan to stand in the way.</p>

<p>The RNC is planning to hold part of its spring fundraising gala at Mar-a-Lago, Trump’s private club in Palm Beach, Florida. That plan was in the works before the cease-and-desist letters. The Four Seasons in Palm Beach, which is hosting the rest of the gala, had social distancing and space requirements that would not allow for the 350 people who wanted to attend the Saturday night reception where Trump is scheduled to speak. The hotel also expressed concerns about hosting the former president.</p>


WASHINGTON — It was a familiar play by Donald Trump: lashing out at his enemies and trying to raise money from it. The former president this week escalated a standoff over the Republican Party’s financial future, blasting party leaders and urging his backers to send donations to his new political action committee — not to the institutional groups that traditionally control the GOP’s coffers.

WASHINGTON — It was a familiar play by Donald Trump: lashing out at his enemies and trying to raise money from it. The former president this week escalated a standoff over the Republican Party’s financial future, blasting party leaders and urging his backers to send donations to his new political action committee — not to the institutional groups that traditionally control the GOP’s coffers. “No more money for RINOS,” he said in a statement released Monday by his bare-bones post-presidential office, referring to Republicans In Name Only. He directed donors to his own website instead. The aggressive move against his own party is the latest sign that Trump is trying to wrest control of the low-dollar online fundraising juggernaut he helped create, diverting it from Republican fundraising groups toward his own committee, which has virtually no restrictions on how the money can be spent. Last week, Trump sent cease-and-desist letters — which appear to have little legal standing — to the Republican National Committee, the National Republican Congressional Committee and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, warning them not to appeal to donors using his name and image. The jockeying comes as the party struggles to chart its path forward after losing the House, the Senate and the White House during Trump’s tenure, with moderate party leaders pushing the party to move beyond the divisive former president while much of the GOP base remains firmly behind him. Who controls a majority of donors’ cash is set to be a fiercely contested point of dispute as Republicans try to regroup and take back power in the 2022 midterm elections. What’s more, Trump’s advisers believe the future of party fundraising is in low-dollar contributions, not the class of major donors who have mostly signaled that they want distance from him after his monthslong push falsely claiming that the Nov. 3 election had been stolen, which led to the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol. Trump’s maneuvering is born partly out of his anger toward Republican leaders who he feels were disloyal when they edged away from him after Jan. 6. The former president is also being encouraged by people like Dick Morris, the notorious political consultant known for flipping between the parties, who has been meeting with him in New York and encouraging him to take on the party he once led. Trump’s actions could give him a stream of money at a time when his private company is struggling under the scrutiny of investigations, with some discussions of whether properties need to be sold. His business is now politics, and political action committees have few restrictions on how they operate and use their money, according to campaign finance experts. The former president could, in theory, pay himself and his family members salaries from the money raised there. “That sort of PAC has no meaningful restrictions on how it could spend its money,” said Adav Noti, the senior director of trial litigation at the Campaign Legal Center. People close to the former president say there has been no discussion about Trump giving himself a salary. But historically, his political committees have paid to use his properties, among other things, indirectly enriching him. Republican fundraising groups have pushed back against the former president. In a letter Monday responding to the cease-and-desist request by Trump’s committee, Justin Riemer, the chief counsel for the RNC, stated, “The RNC, of course, has every right to refer to public figures as it engages in core, First Amendment-protected political speech, and it will continue to do so in pursuit of those common goals.” But in a sign of the delicate dance between Trump and a Republican Party fearful of alienating its most popular figure, Riemer also said that the RNC had not and would not make fundraising appeals using Trump’s name or likeness without his approval. And on Tuesday night, Trump released a second statement walking back his earlier attacks on the Republican committees. “I fully support the Republican Party and important GOP Committees, but I do not support RINOs and fools, and it is not their right to use my likeness or image to raise funds,” he said. But even as he tried to clarify that he supported his party, he gave another plug for his own group. “If you donate to our Save America PAC at DonaldJTrump.com, you are helping the America First movement and doing it right,” he said. For now, aides said, Trump’s plan is to stockpile money so he can remain a force in politics and help candidates challenging dissident Republicans like Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, who supported impeaching him this year. Trump, along with the national party, raised roughly $250 million between Election Day and President Joe Biden’s inauguration. More than $60 million of that went to a new political action committee. That committee and the former president’s campaign committee were both converted to linked political action committees. Trump’s aides said this week that they had not yet started to send fundraising solicitations since he left office, but planned to do so in the coming days. The Republican clash could resonate particularly in the House. If Trump is successful in persuading donors to give money to him instead of supporting Republican House candidates directly, he could cause problems for Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the minority leader, who is trying to take back the House in two years. He needs to flip five seats to do so. “If you control the money, you control the party,” said Dan Eberhart, a Republican donor. Some Republican strategists noted that less than a decade ago, Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah, the party’s 2012 presidential nominee, was the biggest fundraising name in GOP politics. Now he barely recognizes his party. The strategists played down the threat Trump poses to Republican fundraising. “The donors that are unique to him who would be affected by that message are people who wouldn’t have donated in the first place,” said Josh Holmes, a political adviser to Sen. Mitch McConnell, the Senate minority leader. Holmes also said that as the Biden administration rolled out new policies like a nearly $2 trillion relief bill, Republicans would coalesce in opposition and develop new fundraising constituencies. “In midterms, you raise a lot of money out of opposition to an administration and policy,” Holmes said. “In presidential years, it becomes more of a face and name of each of the parties. We’re naturally entering a different era of fundraising.” So far, all Trump’s organization has done is release endorsements for loyalists in key states, like Gov. Henry McMaster of South Carolina, who is running for reelection. But longtime party fundraisers see that as a reminder by Trump to those lawmakers that they need to stick with him, or else he could pull his endorsement down the road. Trump aides were split over whether the RNC should have received the threatening letter at all. Ronna McDaniel, the group’s chairwoman, won her job in large part because of Trump’s support. Some of his aides told her that Trump himself had not known that she received one of the threatening letters. There have historically been tensions between some of Trump’s advisers and RNC officials. But in a phone call with McDaniel over the weekend to smooth over the relationship, Trump played down any intent to directly target the RNC or prevent it from reaching its donors. The takeaway from an overall pleasant conversation, people familiar with the call said, was that Trump was still supportive of Republican donors’ giving money to the RNC and that he did not plan to stand in the way. The RNC is planning to hold part of its spring fundraising gala at Mar-a-Lago, Trump’s private club in Palm Beach, Florida. That plan was in the works before the cease-and-desist letters. The Four Seasons in Palm Beach, which is hosting the rest of the gala, had social distancing and space requirements that would not allow for the 350 people who wanted to attend the Saturday night reception where Trump is scheduled to speak. The hotel also expressed concerns about hosting the former president.

Trump, hungry for power, tries to wrestle away GOP fundraising

<p>Marjorie Taylor Greene had just finished questioning whether a plane really flew into the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, and flatly stating that President Barack Obama was secretly Muslim when she paused to offer an aside implicating another former president in a crime.</p>

<p>“That’s another one of those Clinton murders,” Greene said, referring to John F. Kennedy Jr.’s death in a 1999 plane crash, suggesting that he had been assassinated because he was a potential rival to Hillary Clinton for a New York Senate seat.</p>

<p>Greene casually unfurled the cascade of dangerous and patently untrue conspiracy theories in a previously unreported 40-minute video that was originally posted to YouTube in 2018. It provides a window into the warped worldview amplified by the freshman Republican congresswoman from Georgia, who in the three months since she was elected has created a national brand for herself as a conservative provocateur who has proudly brought the hard-right fringe to the Capitol.</p>

<p>In the process, Greene, 46, has also created a dilemma for Republican leaders, who for months have been unwilling to publicly rebuke or punish her in any way for her inflammatory statements, in part for fear of alienating voters delighted by her incendiary brand of politics and conspiratorial beliefs.</p>

<p>After avoiding the issue for months in the hope that it would resolve itself, Republicans are now facing calls from Democrats to expel Greene from Congress, pressure from a prominent group of Jewish Republicans to discipline her, and private consternation from within their own ranks.</p>

<p>Their reticence to take action is yet another example of how Republican leaders have allowed those forces to fester and strengthen. Some leaders have privately said they are eager to move past the fringe movements and the charged messaging used by President Donald Trump that fueled the assault on the Capitol on Jan. 6.</p>

<p>Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., the minority leader, has yet to say anything personally about Greene’s comments or conduct, even after a week in which a slew of problematic social media posts and videos have surfaced from the years before she was elected. In them, Greene circulated and endorsed a seemingly endless array of hate speech and conspiracy theories explicitly rooted in Islamophobia, anti-Semitism and the belief that government actors were secretly behind a sweeping range of violence.</p>

<p>Greene suggested in 2018 that a devastating wildfire that ravaged California was started by “a laser” beamed from space and controlled by a prominent Jewish banking family with connections to powerful Democrats. She endorsed executing Democratic lawmakers, including Speaker Nancy Pelosi. She served as a prolific writer for a now-defunct conspiracy blog called “American Truth Seekers,” writing posts with headlines including “MUST READ — Democratic Party Involved With Child Sex, Satanism, and The Occult.” And she argued that the 2018 midterm elections — in which the first two Muslim women were elected to the House — were part of “an Islamic invasion of our government.”</p>

<p>Greene has repeatedly claimed in multiple videos and social media posts that several school shooting massacres were “false flag” events perpetrated by government officials in an attempt to drum up support for gun control laws. In an October 2020 video surfaced Friday by Mother Jones, she said that the “only way you get your freedoms back is it’s earned with the price of blood.”</p>

<p>Greene is perhaps best known for having endorsed QAnon, the pro-Trump conspiracy movement that claims that Trump was facing down a shadowy cabal of Democratic pedophiles. (She told Fox News last year that she “chose a different path,” and a spokesman, Nick Dyer, told The New York Times this week that she did not support QAnon.)</p>

<p>Sent a list of detailed questions about her beliefs and postings, Dyer declined to respond to any of them. In her own statement posted on Twitter on Friday afternoon, Greene assailed the “radical, left-wing Democrat mob” and reporters she said were trying to smear her, and claimed she was profiting politically and financially from the outrage she has provoked, saying that every negative news report “strengthens my base of support at home and across the country.”</p>

<p>She also issued what amounted to a threat to top Republicans who might be contemplating punishing her, warning that they would pay steep consequences.</p>

<p>“If Republicans cower to the mob, and let the Democrats and the fake news media take me out,” Greene said, “they’re opening the door to come after every single Republican until there’s none left.”</p>

<p>The statement came as internal pressure was mounting for Republican leaders to address Greene’s comments. The Republican Jewish Coalition, which over the summer intervened in a rare move to back Greene’s primary challenger, disavowed the congresswoman in a scathing statement and said it was “working closely with the House Republican leadership regarding next steps.”</p>

<p>“She repeatedly used offensive language in long online video diatribes, promoted bizarre political conspiracy theories, and refused to admit a mistake after posing for photos with a longtime white supremacist leader,” the group said. “It is unfortunate that she prevailed in her election despite this terrible record.”</p>

<p>A spokesman for McCarthy told Axios this week that newly surfaced Facebook posts written by Greene and reported by CNN, in which she discussed executing top Democratic politicians, were “deeply disturbing” and that McCarthy planned to “have a conversation” with her about them next week.</p>

<p>But McCarthy’s silence so far reflects, in part, the sway Trump still has over the Republican Party and its leaders. The former president has praised Greene effusively and refused to condemn QAnon, despite being asked to disavow it repeatedly while in office.</p>

<p>On Friday evening, Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., chair of the House Rules Committee, suggested Democrats could move unilaterally to strip Greene of her committees if Republicans did not act.</p>

<p>“We could break precedent,” McGovern said on CNN. “We should talk about that if nothing changes.”</p>

<p>In her own telling, Greene became more outspoken about her politics in 2016 after she sold the CrossFit gym she owned and felt she no longer needed to worry about alienating her customers by stating her beliefs.</p>

<p>She began traveling to Washington for conservative events, including a prayer rally hosted by the White House, and to lobby lawmakers against passing gun safety measures. On one such trip, Greene accosted David Hogg, a student who had survived a 2018 school shooting in Parkland, Florida, who was also on Capitol Hill, but to lobby in support of stricter gun laws. In a video that CNN unearthed this week, Greene follows Hogg as he walks toward the Capitol, calling him a “coward” and accusing him of “using kids” to promote his own political agenda.</p>

<p>When Greene decided to run for Congress, she initially started her campaign in a Georgia district held by Rep. Lucy McBath, a Democrat. But after Rep. Tom Graves, a Republican, announced he would retire, Greene moved her campaign to his more conservative district. She eventually placed first in a crowded primary race and advanced to a runoff election against Dr. John Cowan, a mild-mannered neurosurgeon.</p>

<p>On the campaign trail, Greene presented herself as a deeply conservative, pro-Trump Christian mother and business owner, arguing that her work in the construction industry had imbued her with the toughness that comes from working in a male-dominated field. She railed against the ascendant progressive wing in Congress, emphasized the importance of the Second Amendment while toting an AR-15, and warned of “thousands” of immigrants “pouring over” the southwestern border.</p>

<p>Greene largely veered away from the conspiratorial on the trail, though she did cut a campaign ad claiming that “‘Deep State’ actors tried to sabotage President Donald J. Trump before he even took office” and claimed on her campaign accounts that George Soros, the billionaire investor and Democratic donor, was “bankrolling left-wing movements worldwide who want to destroy Israel.”</p>

<p>The messaging raised alarm at the time among House Republican leaders and some members of the Georgia delegation who worried that if elected, Greene could create a grave problem for their party. But they never mobilized to defeat her.</p>

<p>While the top three House Republicans condemned a series of racist videos Greene made, surfaced by Politico, only Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana, the No. 2 Republican, endorsed Cowan. McCarthy and Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, the third-ranking leader, stayed neutral.</p>

<p>Privately, according to a person familiar with their thinking, top Republicans hoped that outside groups would swoop into the primary race in support of Cowan and weaponize Greene’s incendiary comments against her, dooming her candidacy. But the outside effort never materialized.</p>

<p>Instead, Greene’s campaign received an important boost when the political arm of the ultraconservative Freedom Caucus endorsed her, as did Reps. Andy Biggs of Arizona, the group’s chairman, and Jim Jordan of Ohio, a founder. She handily won the runoff in August and cruised to victory in November.</p>

<p>That left Republican leaders hoping that, once sworn in, Greene would clean up her act, disavowing her past comments and dialing back her outlandish rhetoric.</p>

<p>Instead, she charged into Congress and immediately faced scrutiny for her support of the “Stop the Steal” campaign that falsely claimed that Trump had won the 2020 presidential election.</p>

<p>She referred to Jan. 6, the day Congress was slated to formalize the election results, as Republicans’ “1776 moment” in the lead up to the violent storming of the Capitol by pro-Trump rioters. After the rampage, she pledged that Trump would “remain in office” and that attempts to remove him from the White House constituted “an attack on every American who voted for him.”</p>

<p>Days later, she announced she would file articles of impeachment against President Joe Biden.</p>

<p>“Troll level: EXPERT,” Dinesh D’Souza, a right-wing firebrand, wrote on Twitter.</p>

<p>Greene liked the post.</p>


Marjorie Taylor Greene had just finished questioning whether a plane really flew into the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, and flatly stating that President Barack Obama was secretly Muslim when she paused to offer an aside implicating another former president in a crime.

Marjorie Taylor Greene had just finished questioning whether a plane really flew into the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, and flatly stating that President Barack Obama was secretly Muslim when she paused to offer an aside implicating another former president in a crime. “That’s another one of those Clinton murders,” Greene said, referring to John F. Kennedy Jr.’s death in a 1999 plane crash, suggesting that he had been assassinated because he was a potential rival to Hillary Clinton for a New York Senate seat. Greene casually unfurled the cascade of dangerous and patently untrue conspiracy theories in a previously unreported 40-minute video that was originally posted to YouTube in 2018. It provides a window into the warped worldview amplified by the freshman Republican congresswoman from Georgia, who in the three months since she was elected has created a national brand for herself as a conservative provocateur who has proudly brought the hard-right fringe to the Capitol. In the process, Greene, 46, has also created a dilemma for Republican leaders, who for months have been unwilling to publicly rebuke or punish her in any way for her inflammatory statements, in part for fear of alienating voters delighted by her incendiary brand of politics and conspiratorial beliefs. After avoiding the issue for months in the hope that it would resolve itself, Republicans are now facing calls from Democrats to expel Greene from Congress, pressure from a prominent group of Jewish Republicans to discipline her, and private consternation from within their own ranks. Their reticence to take action is yet another example of how Republican leaders have allowed those forces to fester and strengthen. Some leaders have privately said they are eager to move past the fringe movements and the charged messaging used by President Donald Trump that fueled the assault on the Capitol on Jan. 6. Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., the minority leader, has yet to say anything personally about Greene’s comments or conduct, even after a week in which a slew of problematic social media posts and videos have surfaced from the years before she was elected. In them, Greene circulated and endorsed a seemingly endless array of hate speech and conspiracy theories explicitly rooted in Islamophobia, anti-Semitism and the belief that government actors were secretly behind a sweeping range of violence. Greene suggested in 2018 that a devastating wildfire that ravaged California was started by “a laser” beamed from space and controlled by a prominent Jewish banking family with connections to powerful Democrats. She endorsed executing Democratic lawmakers, including Speaker Nancy Pelosi. She served as a prolific writer for a now-defunct conspiracy blog called “American Truth Seekers,” writing posts with headlines including “MUST READ — Democratic Party Involved With Child Sex, Satanism, and The Occult.” And she argued that the 2018 midterm elections — in which the first two Muslim women were elected to the House — were part of “an Islamic invasion of our government.” Greene has repeatedly claimed in multiple videos and social media posts that several school shooting massacres were “false flag” events perpetrated by government officials in an attempt to drum up support for gun control laws. In an October 2020 video surfaced Friday by Mother Jones, she said that the “only way you get your freedoms back is it’s earned with the price of blood.” Greene is perhaps best known for having endorsed QAnon, the pro-Trump conspiracy movement that claims that Trump was facing down a shadowy cabal of Democratic pedophiles. (She told Fox News last year that she “chose a different path,” and a spokesman, Nick Dyer, told The New York Times this week that she did not support QAnon.) Sent a list of detailed questions about her beliefs and postings, Dyer declined to respond to any of them. In her own statement posted on Twitter on Friday afternoon, Greene assailed the “radical, left-wing Democrat mob” and reporters she said were trying to smear her, and claimed she was profiting politically and financially from the outrage she has provoked, saying that every negative news report “strengthens my base of support at home and across the country.” She also issued what amounted to a threat to top Republicans who might be contemplating punishing her, warning that they would pay steep consequences. “If Republicans cower to the mob, and let the Democrats and the fake news media take me out,” Greene said, “they’re opening the door to come after every single Republican until there’s none left.” The statement came as internal pressure was mounting for Republican leaders to address Greene’s comments. The Republican Jewish Coalition, which over the summer intervened in a rare move to back Greene’s primary challenger, disavowed the congresswoman in a scathing statement and said it was “working closely with the House Republican leadership regarding next steps.” “She repeatedly used offensive language in long online video diatribes, promoted bizarre political conspiracy theories, and refused to admit a mistake after posing for photos with a longtime white supremacist leader,” the group said. “It is unfortunate that she prevailed in her election despite this terrible record.” A spokesman for McCarthy told Axios this week that newly surfaced Facebook posts written by Greene and reported by CNN, in which she discussed executing top Democratic politicians, were “deeply disturbing” and that McCarthy planned to “have a conversation” with her about them next week. But McCarthy’s silence so far reflects, in part, the sway Trump still has over the Republican Party and its leaders. The former president has praised Greene effusively and refused to condemn QAnon, despite being asked to disavow it repeatedly while in office. On Friday evening, Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., chair of the House Rules Committee, suggested Democrats could move unilaterally to strip Greene of her committees if Republicans did not act. “We could break precedent,” McGovern said on CNN. “We should talk about that if nothing changes.” In her own telling, Greene became more outspoken about her politics in 2016 after she sold the CrossFit gym she owned and felt she no longer needed to worry about alienating her customers by stating her beliefs. She began traveling to Washington for conservative events, including a prayer rally hosted by the White House, and to lobby lawmakers against passing gun safety measures. On one such trip, Greene accosted David Hogg, a student who had survived a 2018 school shooting in Parkland, Florida, who was also on Capitol Hill, but to lobby in support of stricter gun laws. In a video that CNN unearthed this week, Greene follows Hogg as he walks toward the Capitol, calling him a “coward” and accusing him of “using kids” to promote his own political agenda. When Greene decided to run for Congress, she initially started her campaign in a Georgia district held by Rep. Lucy McBath, a Democrat. But after Rep. Tom Graves, a Republican, announced he would retire, Greene moved her campaign to his more conservative district. She eventually placed first in a crowded primary race and advanced to a runoff election against Dr. John Cowan, a mild-mannered neurosurgeon. On the campaign trail, Greene presented herself as a deeply conservative, pro-Trump Christian mother and business owner, arguing that her work in the construction industry had imbued her with the toughness that comes from working in a male-dominated field. She railed against the ascendant progressive wing in Congress, emphasized the importance of the Second Amendment while toting an AR-15, and warned of “thousands” of immigrants “pouring over” the southwestern border. Greene largely veered away from the conspiratorial on the trail, though she did cut a campaign ad claiming that “‘Deep State’ actors tried to sabotage President Donald J. Trump before he even took office” and claimed on her campaign accounts that George Soros, the billionaire investor and Democratic donor, was “bankrolling left-wing movements worldwide who want to destroy Israel.” The messaging raised alarm at the time among House Republican leaders and some members of the Georgia delegation who worried that if elected, Greene could create a grave problem for their party. But they never mobilized to defeat her. While the top three House Republicans condemned a series of racist videos Greene made, surfaced by Politico, only Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana, the No. 2 Republican, endorsed Cowan. McCarthy and Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, the third-ranking leader, stayed neutral. Privately, according to a person familiar with their thinking, top Republicans hoped that outside groups would swoop into the primary race in support of Cowan and weaponize Greene’s incendiary comments against her, dooming her candidacy. But the outside effort never materialized. Instead, Greene’s campaign received an important boost when the political arm of the ultraconservative Freedom Caucus endorsed her, as did Reps. Andy Biggs of Arizona, the group’s chairman, and Jim Jordan of Ohio, a founder. She handily won the runoff in August and cruised to victory in November. That left Republican leaders hoping that, once sworn in, Greene would clean up her act, disavowing her past comments and dialing back her outlandish rhetoric. Instead, she charged into Congress and immediately faced scrutiny for her support of the “Stop the Steal” campaign that falsely claimed that Trump had won the 2020 presidential election. She referred to Jan. 6, the day Congress was slated to formalize the election results, as Republicans’ “1776 moment” in the lead up to the violent storming of the Capitol by pro-Trump rioters. After the rampage, she pledged that Trump would “remain in office” and that attempts to remove him from the White House constituted “an attack on every American who voted for him.” Days later, she announced she would file articles of impeachment against President Joe Biden. “Troll level: EXPERT,” Dinesh D’Souza, a right-wing firebrand, wrote on Twitter. Greene liked the post.

GOP quiet as pressure mounts to address lawmaker’s conspiracy claims

Gop, News on Gop, stories on Gop, articles on Gop, Gop stories at Wion, Gop news, Gop latest news