Authorities in New York and other cities in the United States are preparing for the unprecedented scenario of the possible arrest of former US president Donald Trump. The former leader of the free world has himself said that he might be arrested. The charges? Alleged payment of USD 130,000 to porn star Stormy Daniels in 2016 as hush money to hide an affair with him. On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump has already asked his supporters to protest against his possible arrest. The last time he made such an appeal, hundreds of his supporters had stormed the US Capitol Building on January 6, 2021.

If an indictment is filed against Trump, he would be the first sitting or former US president ever to be charged with a crime. Trump supporters were scheduled to protest in New York later Monday as Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg weighs charging the ex-president&nbsp;

Bragg, an elected Democrat, has not confirmed any plans to indict, but has indicated that prosecutors are nearing a decision by putting key witnesses in front of a grand jury in recent weeks and offering Trump the opportunity to testify.

"They are MANY years beyond the Statute of Limitations which, in this instance, is TWO YEARS. More importantly, THERE WAS NO CRIME!!!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform Monday.

The New York Times reported that on Sunday, more than a dozen senior New York officials met senior safety aides of city mayor Eric Adams to discuss security and contingency plans for any protests.

NBC News said that police and other law enforcement agencies had conducted "preliminary security assessments," including placing a security perimeter around the Manhattan Criminal Court where Trump would likely appear before a judge.

"The NYPD's state of readiness remains a constant at all times, for all contingencies. Our communications and coordination with our partners in government and in law enforcement are fundamental tenets of our commitment to public safety," a police spokesperson told AFP.

Senior Democrats have warned that Trump's calls could trigger a repeat of the violence that his supporters unleashed on the US Capitol in January 2021.

The New York Young Republican Club announced a "peaceful protest" of Bragg's "heinous attack" on Trump for 6:00 pm (2000 GMT) in lower Manhattan Monday but it was unclear how many would turn out.

Trump has blasted the investigation as a "witch hunt," while his vice-president Mike Pence described the probe as a "politically charged prosecution."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities in New York and other cities in the United States are preparing for the unprecedented scenario of the possible arrest of former US president Donald Trump.

Authorities in New York and other cities in the United States are preparing for the unprecedented scenario of the possible arrest of former US president Donald Trump. The former leader of the free world has himself said that he might be arrested. The charges? Alleged payment of USD 130,000 to porn star Stormy Daniels in 2016 as hush money to hide an affair with him. On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump has already asked his supporters to protest against his possible arrest. The last time he made such an appeal, hundreds of his supporters had stormed the US Capitol Building on January 6, 2021. If an indictment is filed against Trump, he would be the first sitting or former US president ever to be charged with a crime. Trump supporters were scheduled to protest in New York later Monday as Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg weighs charging the ex-president Bragg, an elected Democrat, has not confirmed any plans to indict, but has indicated that prosecutors are nearing a decision by putting key witnesses in front of a grand jury in recent weeks and offering Trump the opportunity to testify. "They are MANY years beyond the Statute of Limitations which, in this instance, is TWO YEARS. More importantly, THERE WAS NO CRIME!!!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform Monday. The New York Times reported that on Sunday, more than a dozen senior New York officials met senior safety aides of city mayor Eric Adams to discuss security and contingency plans for any protests. NBC News said that police and other law enforcement agencies had conducted "preliminary security assessments," including placing a security perimeter around the Manhattan Criminal Court where Trump would likely appear before a judge. "The NYPD's state of readiness remains a constant at all times, for all contingencies. Our communications and coordination with our partners in government and in law enforcement are fundamental tenets of our commitment to public safety," a police spokesperson told AFP. Senior Democrats have warned that Trump's calls could trigger a repeat of the violence that his supporters unleashed on the US Capitol in January 2021. The New York Young Republican Club announced a "peaceful protest" of Bragg's "heinous attack" on Trump for 6:00 pm (2000 GMT) in lower Manhattan Monday but it was unclear how many would turn out. Trump has blasted the investigation as a "witch hunt," while his vice-president Mike Pence described the probe as a "politically charged prosecution." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US prepares for the unthinkable but possible arrest of a former president

Former US president Donald Trump claimed on Saturday (March 18) that he was expecting to get "arrested" on Tuesday next week and exhorted his supporters to start protests.

Citing a "leak" from the Manhattan district attorney's office, Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform on Saturday morning:&nbsp;"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!"

The investigation focuses on $130,000 paid weeks before the 2016 polls to stop porn star Stormy Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, from going public about an affair she says she had with Trump years ago.

Watch | Trump-Daniels hush money case nearing conclusion

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Prosecutors are weighing whether to charge Trump in the case.

If the Manhattan district attorney were to indict Trump, the 76-year-old would become the first former president to be charged with a crime.

Trump's lawyer told CNBC on Friday evening that his client would surrender to face criminal charges if he was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury.

Trump has denied having an affair with Daniels.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-officials-beef-up-security-around-new-york-ahead-of-possible-donald-trumps-indictment-573298Also Read | US officials beef up security around New York ahead of possible Donald Trump’s indictment https://www.wionews.com/world/us-officials-beef-up-security-around-new-york-ahead-of-possible-donald-trumps-indictment-573298">US officials beef up security around New York ahead of possible Donald Trump’s indictment</a>

In his post, written in capital letters, Trump referred to the "illegal leaks from a corrupt &amp; highly political Manhattan district attorneys office."

Invitation to testify

Daniels met with prosecutors on Wednesday and "agreed to make herself available as a witness, or for further inquiry if needed," according to her lawyer Charles Brewster.

Earlier this month, Trump was given the opportunity to testify by District Attorney Alvin Bragg's team but is expected to decline, to avoid potentially incriminating himself.&nbsp;

Experts say the invitation is a sign that he will almost certainly be charged.

(From inputs from agencies)

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Former US president Donald Trump claimed on Saturday (March 18) that he was expecting to get "arrested" on Tuesday next week and exhorted his supporters to start protests.

Former US president Donald Trump claimed on Saturday (March 18) that he was expecting to get "arrested" on Tuesday next week and exhorted his supporters to start protests. Citing a "leak" from the Manhattan district attorney's office, Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform on Saturday morning: "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 focuses on $130,000 paid weeks before the 2016 polls to stop porn star Stormy Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, from going public about an affair she says she had with Trump years ago. Watch | Trump-Daniels hush money case nearing conclusion × Prosecutors are weighing whether to charge Trump in the case. If the Manhattan district attorney were to indict Trump, the 76-year-old would become the first former president to be charged with a crime. Trump's lawyer told CNBC on Friday evening that his client would surrender to face criminal charges if he was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury. Trump has denied having an affair with Daniels. Also Read | US officials beef up security around New York ahead of possible Donald Trump’s indictment In his post, written in capital letters, Trump referred to the "illegal leaks from a corrupt & highly political Manhattan district attorneys office." Invitation to testify Daniels met with prosecutors on Wednesday and "agreed to make herself available as a witness, or for further inquiry if needed," according to her lawyer Charles Brewster. Earlier this month, Trump was given the opportunity to testify by District Attorney Alvin Bragg's team but is expected to decline, to avoid potentially incriminating himself. Experts say the invitation is a sign that he will almost certainly be charged. (From inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: Donald Trump claims he'll be 'arrested' on Tuesday, exhorts followers to stage protests

Former President Donald Trump said that royals Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and other celebrities like Richard Nixon, Oprah Winfrey, and Hillary Clinton "kissed my ass" once upon a time. Trump made these claims while promoting a soon-to-be-released book titled "Letters to Trump". Speaking to Breitbart, Trump said that he "knew them all — and every one of them kissed my ass, and now I only have half of them kissing my ass."

Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr from his ex-wife Ivana Trump, claimed that the tone of these celebrities witnessed a drastic u-turn when his father ran for office. He said that the book will shine a light on "how phoney" the disdain of these people is.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Charges likely as Evidence reveals Donald Trump paid Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels for silence

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"It’s amazing how quickly their adoration of him changed when he ran for office as a Republican. Letters to Trump shows you exactly how they felt about him and how phoney their newfound disdain truly is."

"Letters to Trump" is Trump's second book release since the 2021 historic loss in the presidential race. The first book "Our Journey Together" was a collection of historic photos from his time in office.

Here's all you need to know:

<h2>Donald Trump's new book</h2>

The former President as per reports will soon be releasing a new book through which readers are "going to see a very fascinating life".

<h2>What is so "fascinating" about the book?</h2>

"Letters to Trump" as per&nbsp;The Hill features correspondence between Donald Trump and some of the biggest names in recent history.

According to Breitbart, it includes letters sent and received by the businessman.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-trump-slams-nations-insane-woke-education-system-at-iowa-rally-571750">Former US president Trump slams nation's 'insane', 'woke' education system at Iowa rally</a>

It includes missives from "interesting, famous, powerful, and influential people over the years," both during his time as president and for the decades leading up to his time in the White House.

<h2>Which famous figures are featured in the book?</h2>

The book, as per Breitbart, "includes correspondence with such wide-ranging figures as royal world leaders like Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana; cultural figures like Clint Eastwood, Oprah Winfrey, and Michael Jackson; sports stars like Shaquille O’Neal; and former presidents Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, George H&nbsp;W&nbsp;Bush, George W&nbsp;Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-grab-them-by-the-py-tape-to-be-used-in-civil-rape-trial-570885">Donald Trump’s ‘grab them by the p***y’ tape to be used in civil rape trial</a>

Additionally, it has correspondence the former president Trump had with "foreign leaders like Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korea leader Kim Jong-un, and former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro."

<h2>When will the book be published?</h2>

The book, as per Winning Publishing, the publisher behind the book, will be released on April 25. Two editions of the book will be made available — the normal edition will be sold for $99, and a signed edition of 'Letters to Trump' will cost $399.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former President Donald Trump said that royals Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and other celebrities like Richard Nixon, Oprah Winfrey, and Hillary Clinton "kissed my ass" once upon a time.

Former President Donald Trump said that royals Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and other celebrities like Richard Nixon, Oprah Winfrey, and Hillary Clinton "kissed my ass" once upon a time. Trump made these claims while promoting a soon-to-be-released book titled "Letters to Trump". Speaking to Breitbart, Trump said that he "knew them all — and every one of them kissed my ass, and now I only have half of them kissing my ass." Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr from his ex-wife Ivana Trump, claimed that the tone of these celebrities witnessed a drastic u-turn when his father ran for office. He said that the book will shine a light on "how phoney" the disdain of these people is. Watch | Charges likely as Evidence reveals Donald Trump paid Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels for silence "It’s amazing how quickly their adoration of him changed when he ran for office as a Republican. Letters to Trump shows you exactly how they felt about him and how phoney their newfound disdain truly is." "Letters to Trump" is Trump's second book release since the 2021 historic loss in the presidential race. The first book "Our Journey Together" was a collection of historic photos from his time in office. Here's all you need to know: Donald Trump's new book The former President as per reports will soon be releasing a new book through which readers are "going to see a very fascinating life". What is so "fascinating" about the book? "Letters to Trump" as per The Hill features correspondence between Donald Trump and some of the biggest names in recent history. According to Breitbart, it includes letters sent and received by the businessman. Also read | Former US president Trump slams nation's 'insane', 'woke' education system at Iowa rally It includes missives from "interesting, famous, powerful, and influential people over the years," both during his time as president and for the decades leading up to his time in the White House. Which famous figures are featured in the book? The book, as per Breitbart, "includes correspondence with such wide-ranging figures as royal world leaders like Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana; cultural figures like Clint Eastwood, Oprah Winfrey, and Michael Jackson; sports stars like Shaquille O’Neal; and former presidents Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, George H W Bush, George W Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama." Also read | Donald Trump’s ‘grab them by the p***y’ tape to be used in civil rape trial Additionally, it has correspondence the former president Trump had with "foreign leaders like Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korea leader Kim Jong-un, and former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro." When will the book be published? The book, as per Winning Publishing, the publisher behind the book, will be released on April 25. Two editions of the book will be made available — the normal edition will be sold for $99, and a signed edition of 'Letters to Trump' will cost $399. (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.

New book 'Letters to Trump' will show Queen Elizabeth, Princess Diana 'kissed my a**,' says Donald Trump

Joseph Tacopina, lawyer of former US president Donald Trump, said on Monday (March 13) that the former president had no plans to participate in the grand jury probe that is investigating the alleged hush money paid to porn star Stormy Daniels. Tacopina made the revelation in ABC News show "Good Morning America"

Trump faces accusations of paying to Daniels to cover-up a love affair. Trump denies this.

Meanwhile, Michael Cohen, former lawyer of Donald Trump is expected to testify before Manhattan grand jury. He has said that he orchestrated to pay Daniels the money on behalf of the former president.

"This is all about accountability. He needs to be held accountable for his dirty deeds," Cohen said of Trump outside a Manhattan courthouse on his way to the grand jury.

Lanny Davis, Cohen's attorney, confirmed earlier that Cohen was scheduled to testify in the closed door proceeding at 2 p.m. (1800 GMT).

The Manhattan District Attorney's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Grand jury proceedings are not public.

The renewed interest in Stormy Daniels and the $130,000 payment she received before the 2016 presidential election comes at a critical time for Trump, who is running for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024. Daniels has said she received the payment in exchange for not discussing a sexual liaison with Trump, who denies it happened.

Trump has been given a chance to testify before the grand jury as a person subject to an investigation, Susan Necheles, an attorney for the former president, told Reuters last Thursday, a sign the grand jury may be close to deciding whether to bring criminal charges against him.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Joseph Tacopina, lawyer of former US president Donald Trump, said on Monday (March 13) that the former president had no plans to participate in the grand jury probe that is investigating the alleged hush money paid to porn star Stormy Daniels.

Joseph Tacopina, lawyer of former US president Donald Trump, said on Monday (March 13) that the former president had no plans to participate in the grand jury probe that is investigating the alleged hush money paid to porn star Stormy Daniels. Tacopina made the revelation in ABC News show "Good Morning America" Trump faces accusations of paying to Daniels to cover-up a love affair. Trump denies this. Meanwhile, Michael Cohen, former lawyer of Donald Trump is expected to testify before Manhattan grand jury. He has said that he orchestrated to pay Daniels the money on behalf of the former president. "This is all about accountability. He needs to be held accountable for his dirty deeds," Cohen said of Trump outside a Manhattan courthouse on his way to the grand jury. Lanny Davis, Cohen's attorney, confirmed earlier that Cohen was scheduled to testify in the closed door proceeding at 2 p.m. (1800 GMT). The Manhattan District Attorney's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Grand jury proceedings are not public. The renewed interest in Stormy Daniels and the $130,000 payment she received before the 2016 presidential election comes at a critical time for Trump, who is running for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024. Daniels has said she received the payment in exchange for not discussing a sexual liaison with Trump, who denies it happened. Trump has been given a chance to testify before the grand jury as a person subject to an investigation, Susan Necheles, an attorney for the former president, told Reuters last Thursday, a sign the grand jury may be close to deciding whether to bring criminal charges against him. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Trump has no plans to take part in Stormy Daniels hush money probe: Lawyer

Former United States president Donald Trump on Monday slammed the nation's "insane" education system and vowed to revamp it. He further pledged to bring back "common sense" schooling as part of his "America First" campaign.

Trump was speaking to potential voters in Iowa when he touched upon the highly debated issue that is expected to continue to dominate the conversations throughout the year and up to next year's elections.

Watch |&nbsp;Charges likely as Evidence reveals Donald Trump paid Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels for silence

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"We have to get back to common sense, and that is reading, writing, arithmetic," Trump told the crowd in Davenport. As per AFP, he was answering an audience question about schools becoming "indoctrination camps," focused on "sexualizing our children."

Reiterating Republican allegations of appropriation of "wokeness" into teaching, Donald Trump at the Iowa rally said that "what they're teaching in schools today is insane."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-grab-them-by-the-py-tape-to-be-used-in-civil-rape-trial-570885">Donald Trump’s ‘grab them by the p***y’ tape to be used in civil rape trial</a>

Earlier, in January, Trump had called for federal funding cuts to school programmes that dealt with "critical race theory, gender ideology, or other inappropriate racial, sexual, or political content."

Trump also promised to champion "school choice" i.e., giving parents the right to elect principals, and state — rather than federal — control over curriculums. As per Merriam-Webster, it also means that "students are given the choice to attend a school other than their district's public school".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-justice-for-all-knocks-miley-cyrus-flower-to-become-itunes-no-1-song-571366">Donald Trump's ‘Justice for All’ knocks Miley Cyrus's 'Flowers' to become iTunes No. 1 song</a>

Former president Trump said that if he were to win the 2024 Presidential elections, he'll "fight to expand that right to every single state in America."

He also echoed his previous pledge to "keep men out of women's sports." This is a reference to another highly debated topic about whether transgender women and girls should be allowed to participate in women's sports.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former United States president Donald Trump on Monday slammed the nation's "insane" education system and vowed to revamp it. He further pledged to bring back "common sense" schooling as part of his "America First" campaign.

Former United States president Donald Trump on Monday slammed the nation's "insane" education system and vowed to revamp it. He further pledged to bring back "common sense" schooling as part of his "America First" campaign. Trump was speaking to potential voters in Iowa when he touched upon the highly debated issue that is expected to continue to dominate the conversations throughout the year and up to next year's elections. Watch | Charges likely as Evidence reveals Donald Trump paid Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels for silence "We have to get back to common sense, and that is reading, writing, arithmetic," Trump told the crowd in Davenport. As per AFP, he was answering an audience question about schools becoming "indoctrination camps," focused on "sexualizing our children." Reiterating Republican allegations of appropriation of "wokeness" into teaching, Donald Trump at the Iowa rally said that "what they're teaching in schools today is insane." Also read | Donald Trump’s ‘grab them by the p***y’ tape to be used in civil rape trial Earlier, in January, Trump had called for federal funding cuts to school programmes that dealt with "critical race theory, gender ideology, or other inappropriate racial, sexual, or political content." Trump also promised to champion "school choice" i.e., giving parents the right to elect principals, and state — rather than federal — control over curriculums. As per Merriam-Webster, it also means that "students are given the choice to attend a school other than their district's public school". Also read | Donald Trump's ‘Justice for All’ knocks Miley Cyrus's 'Flowers' to become iTunes No. 1 song Former president Trump said that if he were to win the 2024 Presidential elections, he'll "fight to expand that right to every single state in America." He also echoed his previous pledge to "keep men out of women's sports." This is a reference to another highly debated topic about whether transgender women and girls should be allowed to participate in women's sports. (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.

Former US president Trump slams nation's 'insane', 'woke' education system at Iowa rally

The US Air Force on Friday (March 10) discarded the colour palette chosen by former president Donald Trump for Air Force One and unveiled a new colour scheme for the presidential aircraft. President Joe Biden is going ahead with a classic blue-and-white colour scheme for the jets which are under construction. This means that the design that dates back to John Kennedy administration will be retained.

Former president Trump, who left office in January 2021, wanted a bolder red, white and blue design, and kept a scale model bearing those colors on a coffee table in the Oval Office.

Trump's design called for a deep red stripe down the middle of the aircraft and a dark blue underbelly.

The colours presented challenges to engineers, however, and a Friday statement from the secretary of the Air Force cited possible delays and tests to deal with "the added heat" from the darker shade of blue.

The new Air Force One aircraft will instead closely resemble the aging current one, although the light blue will be a "more modern tone" than the existing robin's egg blue, and there will be no polished metal on the fuselage "because modern commercial aircraft skin alloys don't allow for it," it said.

The replacement aircraft are projected to be delivered in 2027 and 2028, so the winner of the 2024 elections will be the first to take off in the new jets.

The Boeing aircraft are not like commercial airliners. Each includes high-tech communication facilities, a medical bay and a self-defence system.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US Air Force on Friday (March 10) discarded the colour palette chosen by former president Donald Trump for Air Force One and unveiled a new colour scheme for the presidential aircraft.

The US Air Force on Friday (March 10) discarded the colour palette chosen by former president Donald Trump for Air Force One and unveiled a new colour scheme for the presidential aircraft. President Joe Biden is going ahead with a classic blue-and-white colour scheme for the jets which are under construction. This means that the design that dates back to John Kennedy administration will be retained. Former president Trump, who left office in January 2021, wanted a bolder red, white and blue design, and kept a scale model bearing those colors on a coffee table in the Oval Office. Trump's design called for a deep red stripe down the middle of the aircraft and a dark blue underbelly. The colours presented challenges to engineers, however, and a Friday statement from the secretary of the Air Force cited possible delays and tests to deal with "the added heat" from the darker shade of blue. The new Air Force One aircraft will instead closely resemble the aging current one, although the light blue will be a "more modern tone" than the existing robin's egg blue, and there will be no polished metal on the fuselage "because modern commercial aircraft skin alloys don't allow for it," it said. The replacement aircraft are projected to be delivered in 2027 and 2028, so the winner of the 2024 elections will be the first to take off in the new jets. The Boeing aircraft are not like commercial airliners. Each includes high-tech communication facilities, a medical bay and a self-defence system. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

President Biden junks Air Force One paint scheme chosen by predecessor Trump

Former US president Donald Trump and his publisher said on Thursday (March 10) that the former president will release more than 150 letters from giants of world history like Richard Nixon, Kim Jong Un and even media personalities like Oprah Winfrey.

The "Letters to Trump" collection captures "incredible, and oftentimes private" correspondence between Trump and foreign leaders, media personalities, athletes and captains of industry.&nbsp;

"What do presidents, royals, celebrities, and business titans have in common? They all love Donald Trump," Winning Team Publishing founder Sergio Gor said in a statement to AFP.

"Long before entering politics, Donald Trump lived an extraordinary life. No book highlights his iconic relationships like 'Letters to Trump,' and we are thrilled to be able to share it with our readers."&nbsp;

The book is due to be released next month. It spans forty years of correspondence which would reveal instances like Winfrey telling the now-76-year-old leader back in 2000: "Too bad we're not running for office. What a team!"

The TV mogul had written to Trump -- who is running to be the next president -- after he sent her an excerpt from his book&nbsp; 
"The America We Deserve," in which he said she would be his ideal vice president.

Winfrey, 69, reportedly tells Trump his comments made her "a little weepy," according to US politics website Axios.&nbsp;

"It's one thing to try and live a life of integrity -- still another to have people like yourself notice," she reportedly gushes.

'Incredible letters'

Each letter is accompanied by commentary from Trump, who writes that he considers Winfrey "amazing," according to Axios, but complains that "she never spoke to me again" once he announced his bid for the White House in 2015.

Many of the missives, hand-picked by the billionaire, come from fellow titans of pop culture at a time when he cut a more glamorous, less divisive figure as a property magnate and reality TV star in Manhattan.

Michael Jackson, Clint Eastwood and Shaquille O'Neal all loom large in the 320-page hardback, as does Britain's Queen Elizabeth the Second.

(With inpurts from agencies)

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Former US president Donald Trump and his publisher said on Thursday (March 10) that the former president will release more than 150 letters from giants of world history like Richard Nixon, Kim Jong Un and even media personalities like Oprah Winfrey.

Former US president Donald Trump and his publisher said on Thursday (March 10) that the former president will release more than 150 letters from giants of world history like Richard Nixon, Kim Jong Un and even media personalities like Oprah Winfrey. The "Letters to Trump" collection captures "incredible, and oftentimes private" correspondence between Trump and foreign leaders, media personalities, athletes and captains of industry. "What do presidents, royals, celebrities, and business titans have in common? They all love Donald Trump," Winning Team Publishing founder Sergio Gor said in a statement to AFP. "Long before entering politics, Donald Trump lived an extraordinary life. No book highlights his iconic relationships like 'Letters to Trump,' and we are thrilled to be able to share it with our readers." The book is due to be released next month. It spans forty years of correspondence which would reveal instances like Winfrey telling the now-76-year-old leader back in 2000: "Too bad we're not running for office. What a team!" The TV mogul had written to Trump -- who is running to be the next president -- after he sent her an excerpt from his book "The America We Deserve," in which he said she would be his ideal vice president. Winfrey, 69, reportedly tells Trump his comments made her "a little weepy," according to US politics website Axios. "It's one thing to try and live a life of integrity -- still another to have people like yourself notice," she reportedly gushes. 'Incredible letters' Each letter is accompanied by commentary from Trump, who writes that he considers Winfrey "amazing," according to Axios, but complains that "she never spoke to me again" once he announced his bid for the White House in 2015. Many of the missives, hand-picked by the billionaire, come from fellow titans of pop culture at a time when he cut a more glamorous, less divisive figure as a property magnate and reality TV star in Manhattan. Michael Jackson, Clint Eastwood and Shaquille O'Neal all loom large in the 320-page hardback, as does Britain's Queen Elizabeth the Second. (With inpurts from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Letters to Trump' from rich and famous set to release next month

Former United States (US) First Lady Michelle Obama opened up about how she felt on the day of then-President Donald Trump's inauguration in January 2017. She shared her experience on the "Michelle Obama Light Podcast" (by Audible) on Tuesday (March 7).

"That day was emotional for so many different reasons. We were leaving the home we had been in for eight years. The only home our kids really knew. They remembered Chicago, but they had spent more time in the White House than anywhere else," Obama said.&nbsp;

“There were tears, there was that emotion. But then to sit on that stage and watch the opposite of what we represented on display – there was no diversity, there was no colour on that stage, there was no reflection of the broader sense of America," she added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ridiculous-us-first-lady-slams-nikki-haleys-proposal-for-mental-health-test-for-politicians-over-75-569841">'Ridiculous': US First Lady slams Nikki Haley's proposal for mental health test for politicians over 75</a>

"You walk through the Capitol, you wave goodbye, you get on Marine One and you take your last flight off flying over the Capitol, where there weren’t that many people there. We saw it," the former First Lady said, in an apparent jab at Trump over how many people attended his inauguration.&nbsp;

Obama said the family then went to the Andrews Air Force Base, said goodbye to the military, and got on Air Force One. "And when those doors (of Air Force One) shut, I cried for 30 minutes straight. Uncontrollable sobbing," Obama also said during the podcast.&nbsp;

Since leaving the White House, Michelle Obama has revealed details about her mood on the day of Trump's inauguration. According to a report by ABC news, Obama said in her book that she was unable to put on a happy face and smile during the inauguration.

In the audio of the book, Obama said, "Someone from Barack’s administration might have said that the optics there were bad, that what the public saw didn’t reflect the President’s reality or ideals, but in this case, maybe it did. Realising it, I made my own optic adjustment. I stopped even trying to smile," according to the report.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Former United States (US) First Lady Michelle Obama opened up about how she felt on the day of then-President Donald Trump's inauguration in January 2017. She shared her experience on the "Michelle Obama Light Podcast" (by Audible) on Tuesday (March 7).

Former United States (US) First Lady Michelle Obama opened up about how she felt on the day of then-President Donald Trump's inauguration in January 2017. She shared her experience on the "Michelle Obama Light Podcast" (by Audible) on Tuesday (March 7). "That day was emotional for so many different reasons. We were leaving the home we had been in for eight years. The only home our kids really knew. They remembered Chicago, but they had spent more time in the White House than anywhere else," Obama said. “There were tears, there was that emotion. But then to sit on that stage and watch the opposite of what we represented on display – there was no diversity, there was no colour on that stage, there was no reflection of the broader sense of America," she added. ALSO READ | 'Ridiculous': US First Lady slams Nikki Haley's proposal for mental health test for politicians over 75 "You walk through the Capitol, you wave goodbye, you get on Marine One and you take your last flight off flying over the Capitol, where there weren’t that many people there. We saw it," the former First Lady said, in an apparent jab at Trump over how many people attended his inauguration. Obama said the family then went to the Andrews Air Force Base, said goodbye to the military, and got on Air Force One. "And when those doors (of Air Force One) shut, I cried for 30 minutes straight. Uncontrollable sobbing," Obama also said during the podcast. Since leaving the White House, Michelle Obama has revealed details about her mood on the day of Trump's inauguration. According to a report by ABC news, Obama said in her book that she was unable to put on a happy face and smile during the inauguration. In the audio of the book, Obama said, "Someone from Barack’s administration might have said that the optics there were bad, that what the public saw didn’t reflect the President’s reality or ideals, but in this case, maybe it did. Realising it, I made my own optic adjustment. I stopped even trying to smile," according to the report. (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.

I cried for 30 minutes straight: Michelle Obama on day of Donald Trump’s inauguration in 2017

Since last week, United States President Joe Biden has come under fire after his attorneys first acknowledged that he has been in possession of classified documents from when he served as the vice president in the Barack Obama administration from 2009 to 2017. However, over the week additional documents were found at Biden’s personal residence in Wilmington, Delaware, said his attorney in a statement on Saturday. This comes amid the ongoing investigation of why classified documents were kept at the incumbent US president’s home and office by the Attorney General, Merrick Garland, appointed special counsel.&nbsp;

How many documents have been found and where?

So far, there have been three different announcements about finding classified documents from Joe Biden’s time as vice president. The first set of documents was reportedly discovered by Biden’s personal lawyers back in November at the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement in Washington, DC, as per media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/classified-documents-from-obama-administration-found-in-bidens-private-office-550962">Classified documents from Obama administration found in Biden's private office</a>

However, the White House later acknowledged the claims. At the time, Richard Sauber, special counsel to the president, in a statement had said that they found the documents while “packing files housed in a locked closet to prepare to vacate office space” which Biden used sometimes as an office space between 2017 and 2020.&nbsp;

“The White House is cooperating with the National Archives and the Department of Justice regarding the discovery of what appear to be Obama-Biden Administration records, including a small number of documents with classified markings,” said Sauber. He added, “On the day of this discovery, November 2, 2022, the White House Counsel’s Office notified the National Archives. The Archives took possession of the materials the following morning.”

Subsequently, days later, another media report emerged which said that a second of classified documents have been found, this time at Biden’s home in Wilmington, Delaware. On Thursday (January 12), the incumbent president’s lawyers and the White House acknowledged that documents were found in December in his garage at his house in Delaware.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/documents-from-bidens-vice-presidency-days-found-at-think-tank-550973">Documents from Biden's Vice-presidency days found at Think Tank</a>

The most recent disclosure took place over the weekend when the White House lawyer in a statement said that a total of six pages of classified documents were found during a search of Biden’s private library in his home in Delaware.&nbsp;

“While I was transferring it to the DOJ officials who accompanied me, five additional pages with classification markings were discovered among the material with it, for a total of six pages,” said Sauber on Saturday. He added, “The DOJ officials with me immediately took possession of them.” 
 
However, his statement did not address why the Biden administration waited for two days to give this update while the White House was already facing scrutiny for not disclosing the discovery of the initial documents found at the president’s Washington office.&nbsp;

Notably, no documents were found at Biden’s second home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. This most recent development took the total number of documents marked classified or top secret found at Biden’s home and previous office to at least 20, out of which nearly 10 were found at the think tank in Washington, a federal law enforcement official familiar with the investigation told CBS, on Saturday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-joe-bidens-lawyers-find-more-classified-documents-at-his-delaware-house-white-house-confirms-552721">US: Joe Biden's lawyers find more classified documents at his Delaware house, White House confirms</a>

One of the biggest questions concerning the documents at the moment remains about their content which is not known since it is believed that&nbsp;much of the case would hinge on the sensitivity of the information. A report by CNN last week said that some documents found at Biden’s office included intelligence and briefing materials on “Ukraine, Iran and the United Kingdom”, however, nothing has been officially confirmed about the same.&nbsp;

Who&nbsp;is the special counsel appointed to oversee the investigation?

In light of the recently found classified documents and Biden’s apparent mishandling of official records, on Thursday, Garland appointed special counsel Robert Hur a former US attorney from Maryland to oversee the Justice Department probes into the case.&nbsp;

“This appointment underscores for the public the department’s commitment to both independence and accountability in particularly sensitive matters, and to making decisions indisputably guided only by the facts and the law,” said Garland addressing the press, last week.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/former-us-attorney-named-special-counsel-in-biden-classified-documents-case-552120">Former U.S. attorney named special counsel in Biden classified documents case</a>

A special counsel is essentially an attorney appointed, in this case, Hur when the DOJ perceives it having a conflict or deems that it would be in the public interest to have someone outside of the government handle an investigation.&nbsp;

What have Biden and the White House said?

The incumbent US president was first questioned about the discovery of the documents, on Tuesday (January 10) while he was attending a trilateral summit with Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Mexico City. “I was surprised to learn there were any government records that were taken there to that office,” said Biden asserting that he did not know about documents being taken to his private office after he had left public service.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Biden’s attorney Sauber and the White House have previously said that they are “confident that a thorough review will show that these documents were inadvertently misplaced, and the president and his lawyers acted promptly upon discovery of this mistake.” The White House attorney also said that Biden’s lawyer “immediately and voluntarily” handed over the documents found and will move to refer specific questions to the special counsel’s office moving forward.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-legal-team-finds-another-batch-of-classified-documents-during-a-search-551735">Biden's legal team finds another batch of classified documents during a search</a>

Subsequently, Biden told reporters at the White House that he was “cooperating fully and completely” with a Justice Department investigation, on Thursday. He added, “It’s not like they’re sitting out in the street…People know I take classified documents and classified material seriously”. Furthermore, Biden’s personal attorney, Bob Bauer, attempted to explain why they haven’t been forthcoming about the discovery of the documents.&nbsp;

“The President’s personal attorneys have attempted to balance the importance of public transparency where appropriate with the established norms and limitations necessary to protect the investigation’s integrity,” said Bauer in a statement, on Saturday.&nbsp;

He added that such considerations are important to avoid the public release of detail relevant to the investigation while it is ongoing as it might complicate the ability of authorities to obtain information “readily and in an uncompromised form.” This includes information about the witnesses, documents, and events involved in&nbsp;the case.&nbsp;

Will Biden face legal action?

So far, it does not seem likely that the US president will face criminal charges as several reports citing experts have noted. As it would only be considered a crime by the Justice Department if the retention or removal of classified records is intentional and makes it an offence if a person “knowingly” removes classified documents and stores them in an unauthorised way.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/they-were-inadvertently-misplaced-biden-lawyer-on-the-classified-documents-552188">&nbsp;'They were inadvertently misplaced': Biden lawyer on the classified documents</a>

Additionally, prosecutors would not pursue charges if it is proven that Biden accidentally or unknowingly retained documents. In a statement, Representative Jamie Raskin, the top Democrat on the House of Representatives Oversight Committee, had earlier said that Biden’s lawyers appeared to have taken “immediate and proper action” after discovering the documents and that he trusts that the attorney general will “make an impartial decision” about further action.&nbsp;

Furthermore, he also rejected the comparisons between the ongoing investigation and the probe into former US President Donald Trump's alleged&nbsp;mishandling of classified documents called the&nbsp;two cases "apples and oranges," on&nbsp;CNN’s “State of the Union”.&nbsp;

Republicans criticise Biden administration 
 
House Oversight Committee Chairman and&nbsp;Kentucky Republican,&nbsp;James Comer, on&nbsp;CNN’s “State of the Union”, said, “We would never have known about the possession of the classified documents were it not for investigative reporting by CBS that somehow got a leak to determine that this had happened prior to the election.” He also criticised&nbsp;the Biden administration and its&nbsp;handling of classified documents and sought additional information on the ongoing investigation from&nbsp;National Archives and the DOJ.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/white-house-dodges-critical-questions-about-biden-classified-documents-551783">White House dodges 'critical' questions about Biden classified documents</a> 
 
He added, "My concern is that the special counsel was called for, but yet hours after that we still had the president's personal attorneys, who have no security clearance, still rummaging around the president's residence looking for things." Comer also went on to call Biden's&nbsp;residence in Delaware a "crime scene" after the documents were discovered. 
 
In the context of Biden's criticism of Trump for mishandling documents, the&nbsp;new chair of the House&nbsp;committee also said, "While he was doing this, he knew very well that he himself had possession of classified documents so the hypocrisy here is great." 
 
Meanwhile, House Speaker and California Republican,&nbsp;Kevin McCarthy in an interview with Fox News said that the House will have a role in overseeing in the proceedings of the Biden investigation. Earlier this week, he had also&nbsp;said that there is no need for a special prosecutor and that the US Congress should be the one investigating Biden, reported ANI.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-biden-in-trouble-for-mishandling-classified-documents-552455">Gravitas: Biden in trouble for mishandling classified documents?</a>

Along similar lines, during the Fox interview, he said, "They apply a special counsel, but how many agents do they apply to that and apply to President Trump as well?" and described it as "hypocrisy".&nbsp; 
 
Cases of alleged&nbsp;mishandling of documents: Biden and Trump&nbsp;

Speaking of the alleged mishandling of classified documents, Biden’s case also came to light at a time when former US President Trump is&nbsp;facing a special counsel of his own as well as a federal criminal investigation for his handling of classified materials. Notably, both the former and the current US presidents should not have had classified documents in their possession as they are supposed to be handed to the legal custody of the US National Archives during a presidential transition period by the respective administration.&nbsp;

However, many have pointed out the similarities between the two cases&nbsp;but highlighted the key difference in how easily the documents were returned to the authorities as well as the response to the incident. In Biden’s case, his attorneys and administration have so far claimed that the&nbsp;documents were&nbsp;promptly returned to the US National Archives upon their discovery.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-have-done-nothing-wrong-trump-after-doj-appoints-war-crimes-specialist-in-jan-6-classified-documents-row-535471">'I have done nothing wrong': Trump after DOJ appoints special counsel in Jan 6, classified documents cases</a>

On the other hand, when classified documents were found at the former president’s private club and residence in Mar-a-Lago, Florida there was a series of events which are still under investigation. Initially, National Archives requested documents that it believed were in Trump’s possession in May 2021 and tried to collect the documents for over a year without any success.&nbsp;

It was later found that the 15 boxes of documents that Trump returned last year contained classified materials and consequently the matter was referred to the DOJ which issued a subpoena that sought the return of all the official documents. Subsequently, they also asserted that the former US president does not&nbsp;have any more documents.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, department officials accused Trump’s representatives of not fully complying with a subpoena prompting them to return to his Palm Beach estate with a search warrant. This was also&nbsp;amid concerns of possible obstruction and following the search,&nbsp;the agency recovered an additional 13,000 documents that were in the former president’s possession out of which at least 10 were marked classified.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mar-a-lago-probe-trumps-admission-in-audiotapes-contradicts-his-defence-reports-526948">Mar-A-Lago probe | Trump's admission in audiotapes contradicts his defence: Reports</a>

It is this series of events that put Trump at a real risk of obstruction which special counsel Jack Smith is currently investigating. “When is the FBI going to raid the many homes of Joe Biden, perhaps even the White House? These documents were definitely not declassified,” said Trump, late Monday, in a post on his social media platform Truth Social, as per Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Since last week, United States President Joe Biden has come under fire after his attorneys first acknowledged that he has been in possession of classified documents from when he served as the vice president in the Barack Obama administration from 2009 to 2017.

Since last week, United States President Joe Biden has come under fire after his attorneys first acknowledged that he has been in possession of classified documents from when he served as the vice president in the Barack Obama administration from 2009 to 2017. However, over the week additional documents were found at Biden’s personal residence in Wilmington, Delaware, said his attorney in a statement on Saturday. This comes amid the ongoing investigation of why classified documents were kept at the incumbent US president’s home and office by the Attorney General, Merrick Garland, appointed special counsel. How many documents have been found and where? So far, there have been three different announcements about finding classified documents from Joe Biden’s time as vice president. The first set of documents was reportedly discovered by Biden’s personal lawyers back in November at the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement in Washington, DC, as per media reports. ALSO READ | Classified documents from Obama administration found in Biden's private office However, the White House later acknowledged the claims. At the time, Richard Sauber, special counsel to the president, in a statement had said that they found the documents while “packing files housed in a locked closet to prepare to vacate office space” which Biden used sometimes as an office space between 2017 and 2020. “The White House is cooperating with the National Archives and the Department of Justice regarding the discovery of what appear to be Obama-Biden Administration records, including a small number of documents with classified markings,” said Sauber. He added, “On the day of this discovery, November 2, 2022, the White House Counsel’s Office notified the National Archives. The Archives took possession of the materials the following morning.” Subsequently, days later, another media report emerged which said that a second of classified documents have been found, this time at Biden’s home in Wilmington, Delaware. On Thursday (January 12), the incumbent president’s lawyers and the White House acknowledged that documents were found in December in his garage at his house in Delaware. ALSO WATCH | Documents from Biden's Vice-presidency days found at Think Tank The most recent disclosure took place over the weekend when the White House lawyer in a statement said that a total of six pages of classified documents were found during a search of Biden’s private library in his home in Delaware. “While I was transferring it to the DOJ officials who accompanied me, five additional pages with classification markings were discovered among the material with it, for a total of six pages,” said Sauber on Saturday. He added, “The DOJ officials with me immediately took possession of them.” However, his statement did not address why the Biden administration waited for two days to give this update while the White House was already facing scrutiny for not disclosing the discovery of the initial documents found at the president’s Washington office. Notably, no documents were found at Biden’s second home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. This most recent development took the total number of documents marked classified or top secret found at Biden’s home and previous office to at least 20, out of which nearly 10 were found at the think tank in Washington, a federal law enforcement official familiar with the investigation told CBS, on Saturday. ALSO READ | US: Joe Biden's lawyers find more classified documents at his Delaware house, White House confirms One of the biggest questions concerning the documents at the moment remains about their content which is not known since it is believed that much of the case would hinge on the sensitivity of the information. A report by CNN last week said that some documents found at Biden’s office included intelligence and briefing materials on “Ukraine, Iran and the United Kingdom”, however, nothing has been officially confirmed about the same. Who is the special counsel appointed to oversee the investigation? In light of the recently found classified documents and Biden’s apparent mishandling of official records, on Thursday, Garland appointed special counsel Robert Hur a former US attorney from Maryland to oversee the Justice Department probes into the case. “This appointment underscores for the public the department’s commitment to both independence and accountability in particularly sensitive matters, and to making decisions indisputably guided only by the facts and the law,” said Garland addressing the press, last week. ALSO WATCH | Former U.S. attorney named special counsel in Biden classified documents case A special counsel is essentially an attorney appointed, in this case, Hur when the DOJ perceives it having a conflict or deems that it would be in the public interest to have someone outside of the government handle an investigation. What have Biden and the White House said? The incumbent US president was first questioned about the discovery of the documents, on Tuesday (January 10) while he was attending a trilateral summit with Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Mexico City. “I was surprised to learn there were any government records that were taken there to that office,” said Biden asserting that he did not know about documents being taken to his private office after he had left public service. Meanwhile, Biden’s attorney Sauber and the White House have previously said that they are “confident that a thorough review will show that these documents were inadvertently misplaced, and the president and his lawyers acted promptly upon discovery of this mistake.” The White House attorney also said that Biden’s lawyer “immediately and voluntarily” handed over the documents found and will move to refer specific questions to the special counsel’s office moving forward. ALSO READ | Biden's legal team finds another batch of classified documents during a search Subsequently, Biden told reporters at the White House that he was “cooperating fully and completely” with a Justice Department investigation, on Thursday. He added, “It’s not like they’re sitting out in the street…People know I take classified documents and classified material seriously”. Furthermore, Biden’s personal attorney, Bob Bauer, attempted to explain why they haven’t been forthcoming about the discovery of the documents. “The President’s personal attorneys have attempted to balance the importance of public transparency where appropriate with the established norms and limitations necessary to protect the investigation’s integrity,” said Bauer in a statement, on Saturday. He added that such considerations are important to avoid the public release of detail relevant to the investigation while it is ongoing as it might complicate the ability of authorities to obtain information “readily and in an uncompromised form.” This includes information about the witnesses, documents, and events involved in the case. Will Biden face legal action? So far, it does not seem likely that the US president will face criminal charges as several reports citing experts have noted. As it would only be considered a crime by the Justice Department if the retention or removal of classified records is intentional and makes it an offence if a person “knowingly” removes classified documents and stores them in an unauthorised way. ALSO WATCH | 'They were inadvertently misplaced': Biden lawyer on the classified documents Additionally, prosecutors would not pursue charges if it is proven that Biden accidentally or unknowingly retained documents. In a statement, Representative Jamie Raskin, the top Democrat on the House of Representatives Oversight Committee, had earlier said that Biden’s lawyers appeared to have taken “immediate and proper action” after discovering the documents and that he trusts that the attorney general will “make an impartial decision” about further action. Furthermore, he also rejected the comparisons between the ongoing investigation and the probe into former US President Donald Trump's alleged mishandling of classified documents called the two cases "apples and oranges," on CNN’s “State of the Union”. Republicans criticise Biden administration House Oversight Committee Chairman and Kentucky Republican, James Comer, on CNN’s “State of the Union”, said, “We would never have known about the possession of the classified documents were it not for investigative reporting by CBS that somehow got a leak to determine that this had happened prior to the election.” He also criticised the Biden administration and its handling of classified documents and sought additional information on the ongoing investigation from National Archives and the DOJ. ALSO WATCH | White House dodges 'critical' questions about Biden classified documents He added, "My concern is that the special counsel was called for, but yet hours after that we still had the president's personal attorneys, who have no security clearance, still rummaging around the president's residence looking for things." Comer also went on to call Biden's residence in Delaware a "crime scene" after the documents were discovered. In the context of Biden's criticism of Trump for mishandling documents, the new chair of the House committee also said, "While he was doing this, he knew very well that he himself had possession of classified documents so the hypocrisy here is great." Meanwhile, House Speaker and California Republican, Kevin McCarthy in an interview with Fox News said that the House will have a role in overseeing in the proceedings of the Biden investigation. Earlier this week, he had also said that there is no need for a special prosecutor and that the US Congress should be the one investigating Biden, reported ANI. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Biden in trouble for mishandling classified documents? Along similar lines, during the Fox interview, he said, "They apply a special counsel, but how many agents do they apply to that and apply to President Trump as well?" and described it as "hypocrisy". Cases of alleged mishandling of documents: Biden and Trump Speaking of the alleged mishandling of classified documents, Biden’s case also came to light at a time when former US President Trump is facing a special counsel of his own as well as a federal criminal investigation for his handling of classified materials. Notably, both the former and the current US presidents should not have had classified documents in their possession as they are supposed to be handed to the legal custody of the US National Archives during a presidential transition period by the respective administration. However, many have pointed out the similarities between the two cases but highlighted the key difference in how easily the documents were returned to the authorities as well as the response to the incident. In Biden’s case, his attorneys and administration have so far claimed that the documents were promptly returned to the US National Archives upon their discovery. ALSO READ | 'I have done nothing wrong': Trump after DOJ appoints special counsel in Jan 6, classified documents cases On the other hand, when classified documents were found at the former president’s private club and residence in Mar-a-Lago, Florida there was a series of events which are still under investigation. Initially, National Archives requested documents that it believed were in Trump’s possession in May 2021 and tried to collect the documents for over a year without any success. It was later found that the 15 boxes of documents that Trump returned last year contained classified materials and consequently the matter was referred to the DOJ which issued a subpoena that sought the return of all the official documents. Subsequently, they also asserted that the former US president does not have any more documents. However, department officials accused Trump’s representatives of not fully complying with a subpoena prompting them to return to his Palm Beach estate with a search warrant. This was also amid concerns of possible obstruction and following the search, the agency recovered an additional 13,000 documents that were in the former president’s possession out of which at least 10 were marked classified. ALSO WATCH | Mar-A-Lago probe | Trump's admission in audiotapes contradicts his defence: Reports It is this series of events that put Trump at a real risk of obstruction which special counsel Jack Smith is currently investigating. “When is the FBI going to raid the many homes of Joe Biden, perhaps even the White House? These documents were definitely not declassified,” said Trump, late Monday, in a post on his social media platform Truth Social, as per Al Jazeera. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Biden classified documents investigation: What we know so far

At the end of over a year of investigation, 10 public hearings, more than thousands of interviews, and several million documents,&nbsp;the January 6 congressional committee has recommended four separate criminal&nbsp;charges against&nbsp;former United States President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

While these charges are largely symbolic and the Justice Department is not obliged to abide by these recommendations it marks a momentous step in the panel of seven Democrats and five Republicans’ of over 16 months of investigation. The referrals were made based on “sufficient evidence” which indicated that the former US president violated the following statutes.&nbsp;

What happened on January 6?

On January 6, 2021, a joint session of the Congress was set to convene to certify the 2020 presidential election and incumbent US President Joe Biden’s electoral vote win. Meanwhile, the now-former president’s supporters had gathered to listen to him speak. In what was eventually seen as an attempt to prevent the peaceful transfer of power, Trump addressing his supporters said, “We will never give up. We will never concede.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-supporters-storm-us-capitol-building-during-joe-biden-certification-354950">Donald Trump supporters storm US Capitol building during Joe Biden certification</a>

Meanwhile, he&nbsp;called on former Vice President Mike Pence to reject Biden’s win and&nbsp;asked&nbsp;supporters to march to the US Capitol. What followed was chaos as thousands of Trump supporters stormed the building, breaking the barricades while the police were outnumbered. Subsequently, the lawmakers present in the building who were unaware of the protests outside were evacuated from the Senate floor as the mob broke windows and doors to enter the building.&nbsp;

What are the recommended charges against the former US president?

Inciting, assisting, or aiding and comforting an insurrection

The committee accused Trump of not only inciting, assisting, or engaging “in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States,” but they also recommended that the be held former president responsible for not taking appropriate action to stop the violence and in turn encouraged his supporters to come to Washington and wreak havoc. &nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/january-6-panel-recommends-criminal-charges-against-donald-trump-544666">January 6 panel recommends criminal charges against Donald Trump</a> 
 
Obstruction of an official proceeding&nbsp;

This charge makes “corruptly” obstructing, influencing, or impeding an official proceeding or attempting to do so a criminal offence. According to the committee, Trump was told that his VP Pence cannot decline to tally votes and has to abide by the Electoral Count Act. Additionally, the former president was also reportedly aware of his losses in state and federal lawsuits when he alleged voter fraud.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the committee also attributed this charge to Trump’s plans to persuade state officials to change the electoral results “provides further evidence that President Trump was attempting through multiple means to corruptly obstruct, impede or influence the counting of electoral votes on January 6th,” said the panel’s executive summary. &nbsp;

Conspiracy to defraud the United States

Two or more people are&nbsp;charged with this criminal statute&nbsp;when they&nbsp;conspire to either “commit any offence against the United States or to defraud the United States, or any agency thereof”. The panel has recommended this charge citing Trump and his allies entering into agreements, formal or informal, to obstruct the certification of the&nbsp;Electoral College votes.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/january-6-committee-recommends-charging-trump-calling-him-unfit-for-any-office-544650">January 6 committee recommends charging Trump, calling him 'unfit for any office'</a>

This also comes as the Justice Department told the panel that they had already concluded that there is no evidence or factual basis to argue that the election was stolen, a claim that Trump had made repeatedly. Furthermore, the former president also asked Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, to “find” him over 11,000 votes, which the state official declined to do since he did not have the authority to do so, said the panel report.&nbsp;

Conspiracy to make a false statement

This statute makes it unlawful for a government official to cover up a scheme, make false statements, or issue false statements, or documents, knowing that it is not true. The panel claims that several people acting on Trump’s orders submitted fake slates of electors to Congress and the National Archives.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-closing-door-on-that-former-us-vice-president-mike-pence-refuses-to-testify-before-jan-06-committee-535001">'I'm closing door on that': Former US Vice President Mike Pence refuses to testify before Jan 6 panel&nbsp;</a>

Subsequently, the&nbsp;existence of those fake electors was used to assert that&nbsp;Pence could delay or reject the certification of Biden’s electors, said the committee in its report. It added, that the former president, “personally participated in a scheme to have the Trump electors meet, cast votes, and send their votes to the Joint Session of Congress in several states that Vice President Biden won, and then his supporters relied on the existence of these fake electors as part of their effort to obstruct the Joint Session.”

Trump’s response to the referred charges

On Monday, following the announcement of the panel’s recommendations and charges against Trump, he took to his social media platform, ‘Truth Social’ and posted a series of statements.&nbsp;

“These folks don’t get it that when they come after me, people who love freedom rally around me. &nbsp;It strengthens me. What doesn’t kill me makes me stronger,” said the former president, seemingly brushing off the potential criminal charges.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sues-to-block-invalid-unconstitutional-and-unenforceable-january-6-committee-subpoena-533511">Trump files suit to block Jan 6 panel subpoena to avoid being ‘compelled’ to testify, hand papers</a>

He also asserted that he had “pushed for 20,000 troops to prevent violence on Jan 6, and that I went on television and told everyone to go home…” Furthermore, Trump accused House lawmakers of recommending “fake charges” against him in an attempt to stop him from running for the White House again.&nbsp;

“The people understand that the Democratic Bureau of Investigation, the DBI, are out to keep me from running for president because they know I’ll win and that this whole business of prosecuting me is just like impeachment was - a partisan attempt to sideline me and the Republican Party,” said Trump also referring to two impeachment trials during his presidency.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-declares-his-2024-presidential-run-to-make-america-great-again-534559">'America's comeback starts right now': Donald Trump declares his 2024 presidential bid</a>

He added, “The Fake charges made by the highly partisan Unselect Committee of January 6th have already been submitted, prosecuted, and tried in the form of Impeachment Hoax # 2. I WON convincingly. Double Jeopardy anyone!”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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At the end of over a year of investigation, 10 public hearings, more than thousands of interviews, and several million documents, the January 6 congressional committee has recommended four separate criminal charges against former United States President Donald Trump.

At the end of over a year of investigation, 10 public hearings, more than thousands of interviews, and several million documents, the January 6 congressional committee has recommended four separate criminal charges against former United States President Donald Trump. While these charges are largely symbolic and the Justice Department is not obliged to abide by these recommendations it marks a momentous step in the panel of seven Democrats and five Republicans’ of over 16 months of investigation. The referrals were made based on “sufficient evidence” which indicated that the former US president violated the following statutes. What happened on January 6? On January 6, 2021, a joint session of the Congress was set to convene to certify the 2020 presidential election and incumbent US President Joe Biden’s electoral vote win. Meanwhile, the now-former president’s supporters had gathered to listen to him speak. In what was eventually seen as an attempt to prevent the peaceful transfer of power, Trump addressing his supporters said, “We will never give up. We will never concede.” ALSO READ | Donald Trump supporters storm US Capitol building during Joe Biden certification Meanwhile, he called on former Vice President Mike Pence to reject Biden’s win and asked supporters to march to the US Capitol. What followed was chaos as thousands of Trump supporters stormed the building, breaking the barricades while the police were outnumbered. Subsequently, the lawmakers present in the building who were unaware of the protests outside were evacuated from the Senate floor as the mob broke windows and doors to enter the building. What are the recommended charges against the former US president? Inciting, assisting, or aiding and comforting an insurrection The committee accused Trump of not only inciting, assisting, or engaging “in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States,” but they also recommended that the be held former president responsible for not taking appropriate action to stop the violence and in turn encouraged his supporters to come to Washington and wreak havoc. ALSO WATCH | January 6 panel recommends criminal charges against Donald Trump Obstruction of an official proceeding This charge makes “corruptly” obstructing, influencing, or impeding an official proceeding or attempting to do so a criminal offence. According to the committee, Trump was told that his VP Pence cannot decline to tally votes and has to abide by the Electoral Count Act. Additionally, the former president was also reportedly aware of his losses in state and federal lawsuits when he alleged voter fraud. Furthermore, the committee also attributed this charge to Trump’s plans to persuade state officials to change the electoral results “provides further evidence that President Trump was attempting through multiple means to corruptly obstruct, impede or influence the counting of electoral votes on January 6th,” said the panel’s executive summary. Conspiracy to defraud the United States Two or more people are charged with this criminal statute when they conspire to either “commit any offence against the United States or to defraud the United States, or any agency thereof”. The panel has recommended this charge citing Trump and his allies entering into agreements, formal or informal, to obstruct the certification of the Electoral College votes. ALSO WATCH | January 6 committee recommends charging Trump, calling him 'unfit for any office' This also comes as the Justice Department told the panel that they had already concluded that there is no evidence or factual basis to argue that the election was stolen, a claim that Trump had made repeatedly. Furthermore, the former president also asked Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, to “find” him over 11,000 votes, which the state official declined to do since he did not have the authority to do so, said the panel report. Conspiracy to make a false statement This statute makes it unlawful for a government official to cover up a scheme, make false statements, or issue false statements, or documents, knowing that it is not true. The panel claims that several people acting on Trump’s orders submitted fake slates of electors to Congress and the National Archives. ALSO READ | 'I'm closing door on that': Former US Vice President Mike Pence refuses to testify before Jan 6 panel Subsequently, the existence of those fake electors was used to assert that Pence could delay or reject the certification of Biden’s electors, said the committee in its report. It added, that the former president, “personally participated in a scheme to have the Trump electors meet, cast votes, and send their votes to the Joint Session of Congress in several states that Vice President Biden won, and then his supporters relied on the existence of these fake electors as part of their effort to obstruct the Joint Session.” Trump’s response to the referred charges On Monday, following the announcement of the panel’s recommendations and charges against Trump, he took to his social media platform, ‘Truth Social’ and posted a series of statements. “These folks don’t get it that when they come after me, people who love freedom rally around me. It strengthens me. What doesn’t kill me makes me stronger,” said the former president, seemingly brushing off the potential criminal charges. ALSO READ | Trump files suit to block Jan 6 panel subpoena to avoid being ‘compelled’ to testify, hand papers He also asserted that he had “pushed for 20,000 troops to prevent violence on Jan 6, and that I went on television and told everyone to go home…” Furthermore, Trump accused House lawmakers of recommending “fake charges” against him in an attempt to stop him from running for the White House again. “The people understand that the Democratic Bureau of Investigation, the DBI, are out to keep me from running for president because they know I’ll win and that this whole business of prosecuting me is just like impeachment was - a partisan attempt to sideline me and the Republican Party,” said Trump also referring to two impeachment trials during his presidency. ALSO READ | 'America's comeback starts right now': Donald Trump declares his 2024 presidential bid He added, “The Fake charges made by the highly partisan Unselect Committee of January 6th have already been submitted, prosecuted, and tried in the form of Impeachment Hoax # 2. I WON convincingly. Double Jeopardy anyone!” (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.

Explained: Trump cries foul at January 6 panel criminal charge move. What is he accused of?

Former US president Donald Trump, who is eyeing the White House for a second term, has launched a collection of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) of himself. These are USD 99 digital trading cards showing the former president in several guises including a cowboy, astronaut and fighter pilot.

Trump has been creating a hype for days that he would be making a "major announcement."

But his unveiling of NFTs -- timed to tap into the lucrative festive shopping season -- attracted widespread ridicule.

In a promotional video showing him in a Superman-style costume with laser-beam eyes, Trump gave the cards his classic hard sell.

"These cards feature some of the really incredible artwork pertaining to my life and my career. It has been very exciting," he said.

"Buy one and you will join a very exclusive community -- it is my community.

"Buy your Trump Digital Trading Cards right now before they are all gone, and they will be gone!"

"Remember Christmas is coming and this makes a great Christmas gift," he added.

Those who buy the NFTs are also entered into a sweepstakes to win prizes like a dinner or a round of gold with Trump. The prizes include autographs and Zoom meetings as well.

Trump's last "major announcement" was in November when he declared he would run again for the White House.

But he has since suffered heavy setbacks including the defeat of many candidates he backed in midterm elections, mounting public criticism from Republican former allies and multiple legal cases against him.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former US president Donald Trump, who is eyeing the White House for a second term, has launched a collection of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) of himself. These are USD 99 digital trading cards showing the former president in several guises including a cowboy, astronaut and fighter pilot.

Former US president Donald Trump, who is eyeing the White House for a second term, has launched a collection of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) of himself. These are USD 99 digital trading cards showing the former president in several guises including a cowboy, astronaut and fighter pilot. Trump has been creating a hype for days that he would be making a "major announcement." But his unveiling of NFTs -- timed to tap into the lucrative festive shopping season -- attracted widespread ridicule. In a promotional video showing him in a Superman-style costume with laser-beam eyes, Trump gave the cards his classic hard sell. "These cards feature some of the really incredible artwork pertaining to my life and my career. It has been very exciting," he said. "Buy one and you will join a very exclusive community -- it is my community. "Buy your Trump Digital Trading Cards right now before they are all gone, and they will be gone!" "Remember Christmas is coming and this makes a great Christmas gift," he added. Those who buy the NFTs are also entered into a sweepstakes to win prizes like a dinner or a round of gold with Trump. The prizes include autographs and Zoom meetings as well. Trump's last "major announcement" was in November when he declared he would run again for the White House. But he has since suffered heavy setbacks including the defeat of many candidates he backed in midterm elections, mounting public criticism from Republican former allies and multiple legal cases against him. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Trump unveils NFTs showing himself as cowboy, astronaut and more

Former US president Donald Trump's family business, Trump Organization was found guilty of tax fraud by a New York jury on Tuesday. This has dealt a blow to Trump's possible ambition to eye White House again in 2024 polls.

The organisation was found guilty on all nine counts, prosecutors said in a statement. This has marked the first time it had ever been convicted.

"This was a case about greed and cheating. In Manhattan, no corporation is above the law," said Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

This will now cause the company to pay up a fine of around USD 1.5 million, a small sum considering Trump's vast wealth. However the ruling is likely to inflict damage to his reputation.

The Trump Organization and separate Trump entity the Trump Payroll Corp were convicted of running a 13-year-scheme to defraud and evade taxes by falsifying business records. The conviction also came for helping executives dodge taxes on extravagant perks such as Manhattan apartments and luxury cars.

Alan Futerfas, a lawyer for the&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;Organization, told reporters the company would appeal. Futerfas said the law allowing the company to be found guilty if executives took criminal acts “in behalf of” the company was vague.

“It was central to the case,” Futerfas said.

Jurors agreed with prosecutors that the Trump Organization -- currently run by Trump's two adult sons, Donald Jr and Eric Trump -- hid compensation it paid to top executives between 2005 and 2021.

Longtime CFO Allen Weisselberg, had already pleaded guilty to 15 counts of tax fraud, and testified against his former company as part of a plea bargain.

A close friend of the Trump family, the 75-year-old Weisselberg admitted he schemed with the company to receive undeclared benefits such as a rent-free apartment in a posh Manhattan neighborhood, luxury cars for him and his wife and private school tuition for his grandchildren.

Trump, who had slammed the charges as a "witch hunt" by rivals," was himself not named in the case.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former US president Donald Trump's family business, Trump Organization was found guilty of tax fraud by a New York jury on Tuesday. This has dealt a blow to Trump's possible ambition to eye White House again in 2024 polls.

Former US president Donald Trump's family business, Trump Organization was found guilty of tax fraud by a New York jury on Tuesday. This has dealt a blow to Trump's possible ambition to eye White House again in 2024 polls. The organisation was found guilty on all nine counts, prosecutors said in a statement. This has marked the first time it had ever been convicted. "This was a case about greed and cheating. In Manhattan, no corporation is above the law," said Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. This will now cause the company to pay up a fine of around USD 1.5 million, a small sum considering Trump's vast wealth. However the ruling is likely to inflict damage to his reputation. The Trump Organization and separate Trump entity the Trump Payroll Corp were convicted of running a 13-year-scheme to defraud and evade taxes by falsifying business records. The conviction also came for helping executives dodge taxes on extravagant perks such as Manhattan apartments and luxury cars. Alan Futerfas, a lawyer for the Trump Organization, told reporters the company would appeal. Futerfas said the law allowing the company to be found guilty if executives took criminal acts “in behalf of” the company was vague. “It was central to the case,” Futerfas said. Jurors agreed with prosecutors that the Trump Organization -- currently run by Trump's two adult sons, Donald Jr and Eric Trump -- hid compensation it paid to top executives between 2005 and 2021. Longtime CFO Allen Weisselberg, had already pleaded guilty to 15 counts of tax fraud, and testified against his former company as part of a plea bargain. A close friend of the Trump family, the 75-year-old Weisselberg admitted he schemed with the company to receive undeclared benefits such as a rent-free apartment in a posh Manhattan neighborhood, luxury cars for him and his wife and private school tuition for his grandchildren. Trump, who had slammed the charges as a "witch hunt" by rivals," was himself not named in the case. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Trump Organization found guilty of tax fraud

Prosecutors in the Trump Organization tax fraud asserted on Friday (December 2) that former US president Donald Trump knew about the fraud taking place in the family business. Prosecution also said that not only Trump knew about the fraud, he also sanctioned the manoeuvres that enabled his companies avoid tax in a sweeping 15-year operation.

“Donald Trump is explicitly sanctioning tax fraud. That’s what this document shows,” said Joshua Steinglass, the prosecutor in Manhattan Criminal Court on Friday. “This whole narrative that Donald Trump is blissfully ignorant is just not real.”

Trump's lawyers have taken a stance that the former US president did not know about the fraud taking place in the organisation. Their line of defence is concentrated on the assertion that Allen Weisselberg, a former senior executive in the company, committed the fraud.

"We are here today because of one reason and one reason only - the greed of Allen Weisselberg," said the defence earlier this week. "The purpose of Mr. Weisselberg's crimes was to benefit Mr. Weisselberg."

Watch | US appeals court rules against Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago documents case

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Defence lawyer Susan Necheles also said that Donald Bender, an accountant with the firm Mazars USA, did not pay heed to Weisselberg's wrongdoing and chose to stay silent.&nbsp;

On Friday, when the prosecution alleged that Trump knew about the fraud, the defence asked the judge for a mistrial.

“We picked a jury...based on the people’s representations that Donald Trump was not on trial,” said defence lawyer Michael van der Veen, adding that the prosecution has now “made him a co-conspirator.”

The entire matter revolves around the Trump Organization which was charged in July 2021 with paying personal expenses for some executives without reporting the income. They were also compensated as if they were independent contractors, in a 15-year scheme to cheat tax authorities.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-deals-big-setback-to-donald-trump-in-mar-a-lago-documents-issue-539271">Court deals big blow to Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago documents issue&nbsp;</a>

The prosecutors need to prove that Weisselberg and other executives acted as "high managerial agents" of the company when they carried out tax fraud, and that they intended to benefit the company in some way.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Prosecutors in the Trump Organization tax fraud asserted on Friday (December 2) that former US president Donald Trump knew about the fraud taking place in the family business.

Prosecutors in the Trump Organization tax fraud asserted on Friday (December 2) that former US president Donald Trump knew about the fraud taking place in the family business. Prosecution also said that not only Trump knew about the fraud, he also sanctioned the manoeuvres that enabled his companies avoid tax in a sweeping 15-year operation. “Donald Trump is explicitly sanctioning tax fraud. That’s what this document shows,” said Joshua Steinglass, the prosecutor in Manhattan Criminal Court on Friday. “This whole narrative that Donald Trump is blissfully ignorant is just not real.” Trump's lawyers have taken a stance that the former US president did not know about the fraud taking place in the organisation. Their line of defence is concentrated on the assertion that Allen Weisselberg, a former senior executive in the company, committed the fraud. "We are here today because of one reason and one reason only - the greed of Allen Weisselberg," said the defence earlier this week. "The purpose of Mr. Weisselberg's crimes was to benefit Mr. Weisselberg." Watch | US appeals court rules against Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago documents case × Defence lawyer Susan Necheles also said that Donald Bender, an accountant with the firm Mazars USA, did not pay heed to Weisselberg's wrongdoing and chose to stay silent. On Friday, when the prosecution alleged that Trump knew about the fraud, the defence asked the judge for a mistrial. “We picked a jury...based on the people’s representations that Donald Trump was not on trial,” said defence lawyer Michael van der Veen, adding that the prosecution has now “made him a co-conspirator.” The entire matter revolves around the Trump Organization which was charged in July 2021 with paying personal expenses for some executives without reporting the income. They were also compensated as if they were independent contractors, in a 15-year scheme to cheat tax authorities. Also Read | Court deals big blow to Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago documents issue The prosecutors need to prove that Weisselberg and other executives acted as "high managerial agents" of the company when they carried out tax fraud, and that they intended to benefit the company in some way. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Trump knew about tax fraud in his company, says prosecution in closing arguments

Former US president Donald Trump was dealt a major blow on Thursday (December 1) as an appeals court rejected his efforts to stop prosecutors from examining thousands of government documents at his Florida home. Trump has held on to the documents even after leaving office.

The federal appeals court in Atlanta, Georgia unanimously overruled a previous order by a Florida judge to appoint a "special master" to review documents seized at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach in August, preventing the justice department from using them in its investigation of Trump's behaviour in the documents case.

The seized documents include thousands of White House records. These were property of the US National Archives. There were also 100 classified documents. Some of them are marked with highest secrecy designations.

Appointment of the special master delayed and threatened to disable the justice department's criminal investigation of Trump for unauthorised possession of national defence information. This falls under the Espionage Act and for obstruction of justice.

But three Atlanta appeals court justices said there was nothing illegal about the August 8 search and document seizure, and that the Florida judge had no jurisdiction to place limits on the justice department's examination of the documents.

They also rejected Trump's claim that the search and seizure violated his rights and that as a former president, he deserved special treatment to protect his reputation.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-defence-lawyer-tells-jurors-he-was-unaware-of-tax-fraud-at-his-company-539262">Trump's defence lawyer tells jurors he was unaware of tax fraud at his company</a>

"It is indeed extraordinary for a warrant to be executed at the home of a former president -- but not in a way that affects our legal analysis or otherwise gives the judiciary license to interfere in an ongoing investigation," the justices wrote.

The ruling effectively removes restrictions that could have hampered the investigation of Trump by Special Counsel Jack Smith, who was appointed on November 18 to take charge of the two major federal investigations into Trump.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former US president Donald Trump was dealt a major blow on Thursday (December 1) as an appeals court rejected his efforts to stop prosecutors from examining thousands of government documents at his Florida home.

Former US president Donald Trump was dealt a major blow on Thursday (December 1) as an appeals court rejected his efforts to stop prosecutors from examining thousands of government documents at his Florida home. Trump has held on to the documents even after leaving office. The federal appeals court in Atlanta, Georgia unanimously overruled a previous order by a Florida judge to appoint a "special master" to review documents seized at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach in August, preventing the justice department from using them in its investigation of Trump's behaviour in the documents case. The seized documents include thousands of White House records. These were property of the US National Archives. There were also 100 classified documents. Some of them are marked with highest secrecy designations. Appointment of the special master delayed and threatened to disable the justice department's criminal investigation of Trump for unauthorised possession of national defence information. This falls under the Espionage Act and for obstruction of justice. But three Atlanta appeals court justices said there was nothing illegal about the August 8 search and document seizure, and that the Florida judge had no jurisdiction to place limits on the justice department's examination of the documents. They also rejected Trump's claim that the search and seizure violated his rights and that as a former president, he deserved special treatment to protect his reputation. Also Read | Trump's defence lawyer tells jurors he was unaware of tax fraud at his company "It is indeed extraordinary for a warrant to be executed at the home of a former president -- but not in a way that affects our legal analysis or otherwise gives the judiciary license to interfere in an ongoing investigation," the justices wrote. The ruling effectively removes restrictions that could have hampered the investigation of Trump by Special Counsel Jack Smith, who was appointed on November 18 to take charge of the two major federal investigations into Trump. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Court deals big blow to Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago documents issue 

Ahead of Thanksgiving, the incumbent United States President Joe Biden continued the White House tradition and “pardoned” two turkeys named “Chocolate” and “Chip” on the South Lawn, earlier this week. The long and somewhat sporadic tradition has garnered a lot of attention in recent years, because well it is a turkey (in this case two turkeys) getting a presidential pardon from being someone’s Thanksgiving dinner and living the rest of its days elsewhere.&nbsp;

The long and complicated history

Each Thanksgiving the sitting US president pardons a turkey saving it from becoming a part of someone's meal since the bird is a traditional food for the celebratory dinner. As mentioned earlier, the tradition has been sporadic and while it may have started in 1947 during Ronald Reagan’s administration it was not cemented until George Bush’s presidency in 1989.&nbsp;

Reports of Americans sending the country’s president a turkey for the holidays date back to the 19th century. While there are rumours of former President Abraham Lincoln being the first one to pardon a turkey after the first family was sent a live turkey for their Christmas meal and&nbsp;his young son asked him to spare the bird. At the time his son had argued that the turkey had the right to live as anyone and the former president granted the bird a “reprieve”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-takes-a-shot-at-gop-as-he-pardons-chocolate-and-chip-has-friendsgiving-dinner-with-marines-536263">Biden takes potshots at GOP as he pardons 'Chocolate' and 'Chip'; has 'Friendsgiving' dinner with marines</a>

During the Ulysses Grant presidency, in 1873, a poultry dealer from Rhode Island named Horace Vose became responsible for selecting the president’s Thanksgiving dinner turkey, a tradition which was carried out for two decades, before he passed away.&nbsp;

In 1947, the National Turkey Federation took over the role of becoming the official turkey supplier to the first family and former President Harry Truman was the first one to accept it in a formal turkey presentation ceremony, but in this case, the bird was not spared. It was actually former president John F Kennedy who sent the turkey presented away to a nearby farm in Washington&nbsp;and&nbsp;said, “Let's keep him going” while&nbsp;a Washington Post report used the word “pardon” as well as “reprieve” for it, in 1973.&nbsp;

In the following years, two first ladies Patricia Nixon (1973) and Rosalynn Carter (1978) sent the turkeys they received to the Oxon Hill Children’s Farm and Evans Farm Inn to live in a mini zoo, respectively. In 1981, it had sort of become a norm to send the turkey to a nearby farm in Washington during Reagan’s presidency but no formal pardon was given.&nbsp;

Satirical remarks by presidents

It was former president Bush in 1989 to offer a presidential pardon to a turkey after animal rights groups were picketing outside the White House during the presentation of the bird and he quipped, “Let me assure you, and this fine tom turkey, that he will not end up on anyone's dinner table, not this guy...he’s granted a Presidential pardon as of right now.”&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-takes-jibe-at-biden-says-stupid-people-do-not-have-a-clue-524132">Donald Trump takes jibe at Biden, says 'stupid people do not have a clue'</a>

Since then granting the presidential pardon has become somewhat satirical. Notably, the first turkeys which were pardoned were sent to the unfortunately named Frying Pan Park in Herndon, Virginia.&nbsp;

This year as Biden granted clemency to the two turkeys and&nbsp;said that he would keep his remarks short “Nobody likes it when their turkey gets cold”. This was also followed by a shot at the Republican Party and election deniers, “The votes are in. They’ve been counted and verified. There’s no ballot stuffing. There’s no foul play,” he said, referring to the process of how the two turkeys are selected by an online poll.&nbsp;

He added, “The only red wave this season is going to be if German Shepard Commander knocks over the cranberry sauce on our table,” in the context of a “red wave” which was expected by the GOP in the midterm elections.&nbsp;

Last year, Biden pardoned Peanut Butter and Jelly when the number of COVID-19 cases in the country increased&nbsp;during the holidays. “Peanut Butter and Jelly were selected based on their temperament, appearance and, I suspect, vaccination status…instead of getting basted, these two turkeys are getting boosted,” president Biden had said last year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-wave-didnt-happen-president-biden-hails-midterm-poll-results-calls-it-good-day-for-democracy-532758">'Red wave didn’t happen': President Biden hails midterm poll results, calls it ‘good day for democracy’</a>

In 2019, former President Donald Trump amid his ongoing impeachment trial during the turkey pardon said he has “already received subpoenas to appear in Adam Schiff’s basement.” While former president Barack Obama capped his final turkey pardoning by changing his signature from “Yes we can '' to “Yes, we cran” among several other&nbsp;dad jokes made in that speech in 2016.&nbsp;

Where do the turkeys go after being pardoned?&nbsp;

Over the years the turkeys have been sent to universities, farms and even parades. In 2022, for example, Chocolate and Chip were sent off to&nbsp;retirement at the&nbsp;North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina following their appearance at the White House. While previously the birds were sent to Virginia Tech’s Gobblers Rest exhibit in Blacksburg and during the Bush and Obama administrations the turkeys even spent a day at Disneyland to greet the park goers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Ahead of Thanksgiving, the incumbent United States President Joe Biden continued the White House tradition and “pardoned” two turkeys named “Chocolate” and “Chip” on the South Lawn, earlier this week.

Ahead of Thanksgiving, the incumbent United States President Joe Biden continued the White House tradition and “pardoned” two turkeys named “Chocolate” and “Chip” on the South Lawn, earlier this week. The long and somewhat sporadic tradition has garnered a lot of attention in recent years, because well it is a turkey (in this case two turkeys) getting a presidential pardon from being someone’s Thanksgiving dinner and living the rest of its days elsewhere. The long and complicated history Each Thanksgiving the sitting US president pardons a turkey saving it from becoming a part of someone's meal since the bird is a traditional food for the celebratory dinner. As mentioned earlier, the tradition has been sporadic and while it may have started in 1947 during Ronald Reagan’s administration it was not cemented until George Bush’s presidency in 1989. Reports of Americans sending the country’s president a turkey for the holidays date back to the 19th century. While there are rumours of former President Abraham Lincoln being the first one to pardon a turkey after the first family was sent a live turkey for their Christmas meal and his young son asked him to spare the bird. At the time his son had argued that the turkey had the right to live as anyone and the former president granted the bird a “reprieve”. ALSO READ | Biden takes potshots at GOP as he pardons 'Chocolate' and 'Chip'; has 'Friendsgiving' dinner with marines During the Ulysses Grant presidency, in 1873, a poultry dealer from Rhode Island named Horace Vose became responsible for selecting the president’s Thanksgiving dinner turkey, a tradition which was carried out for two decades, before he passed away. In 1947, the National Turkey Federation took over the role of becoming the official turkey supplier to the first family and former President Harry Truman was the first one to accept it in a formal turkey presentation ceremony, but in this case, the bird was not spared. It was actually former president John F Kennedy who sent the turkey presented away to a nearby farm in Washington and said, “Let's keep him going” while a Washington Post report used the word “pardon” as well as “reprieve” for it, in 1973. In the following years, two first ladies Patricia Nixon (1973) and Rosalynn Carter (1978) sent the turkeys they received to the Oxon Hill Children’s Farm and Evans Farm Inn to live in a mini zoo, respectively. In 1981, it had sort of become a norm to send the turkey to a nearby farm in Washington during Reagan’s presidency but no formal pardon was given. Satirical remarks by presidents It was former president Bush in 1989 to offer a presidential pardon to a turkey after animal rights groups were picketing outside the White House during the presentation of the bird and he quipped, “Let me assure you, and this fine tom turkey, that he will not end up on anyone's dinner table, not this guy...he’s granted a Presidential pardon as of right now.” ALSO WATCH | Donald Trump takes jibe at Biden, says 'stupid people do not have a clue' Since then granting the presidential pardon has become somewhat satirical. Notably, the first turkeys which were pardoned were sent to the unfortunately named Frying Pan Park in Herndon, Virginia. This year as Biden granted clemency to the two turkeys and said that he would keep his remarks short “Nobody likes it when their turkey gets cold”. This was also followed by a shot at the Republican Party and election deniers, “The votes are in. They’ve been counted and verified. There’s no ballot stuffing. There’s no foul play,” he said, referring to the process of how the two turkeys are selected by an online poll. He added, “The only red wave this season is going to be if German Shepard Commander knocks over the cranberry sauce on our table,” in the context of a “red wave” which was expected by the GOP in the midterm elections. Last year, Biden pardoned Peanut Butter and Jelly when the number of COVID-19 cases in the country increased during the holidays. “Peanut Butter and Jelly were selected based on their temperament, appearance and, I suspect, vaccination status…instead of getting basted, these two turkeys are getting boosted,” president Biden had said last year. ALSO READ | 'Red wave didn’t happen': President Biden hails midterm poll results, calls it ‘good day for democracy’ In 2019, former President Donald Trump amid his ongoing impeachment trial during the turkey pardon said he has “already received subpoenas to appear in Adam Schiff’s basement.” While former president Barack Obama capped his final turkey pardoning by changing his signature from “Yes we can '' to “Yes, we cran” among several other dad jokes made in that speech in 2016. Where do the turkeys go after being pardoned? Over the years the turkeys have been sent to universities, farms and even parades. In 2022, for example, Chocolate and Chip were sent off to retirement at the North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina following their appearance at the White House. While previously the birds were sent to Virginia Tech’s Gobblers Rest exhibit in Blacksburg and during the Bush and Obama administrations the turkeys even spent a day at Disneyland to greet the park goers. (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.

Explained: 'Chocolate' and 'Chip' pardoned from becoming Thanksgiving meals by US President

Allen Weisselberg, a former chief financial officer of the Trump Organization, appeared in court on Thursday, outlining how two of Donald Trump's children allegedly took part in a scheme to defraud tax authorities.

Weisselberg claimed that Donald Trump, or occasionally Eric Trump or Donald Trump Jr., wrote cheques totalling up to $100,000 to cover the cost of private school tuition of Weisselberg's grandchildren.&nbsp;

Weisselberg claimed that he subsequently gave the controller of the business the order to subtract $100,000 from his pay, enabling him to declare a lower income.&nbsp;

The Trumps signed copies of some of the cheques that were displayed in court.

Don't forget, I'm going to pay you back for this, Weisselberg claimed he promised Trump the first time he signed a tuition cheque. He claimed that the wage reduction served as payment.&nbsp;

Weisselberg, two Trump Organization businesses, and other defendants are charged with numerous counts of fraud and tax evasion.&nbsp;

In August, Weisselberg pleaded guilty to charges brought against him by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, which claimed he received more than $1.7 million in untaxed pay.

Also &nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kherson-residents-switch-russian-sim-cards-with-ukrainian-ones-535144">Kherson residents switch Russian SIM cards with Ukrainian ones</a>

Over the course of the first two days of evidence, Weisselberg, who is still employed by the Trump Organization, has detailed a long list of advantages he and other executives got, for which he claims their incomes were also decreased to avoid paying taxes.&nbsp;

He claimed that in the case of himself and many other executives, significant bonus payments made to the executives in the manner of independent contractors to Trump Organization firms served to offset the compensation decreases.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Allen Weisselberg, a former chief financial officer of the Trump Organization, appeared in court on Thursday, outlining how two of Donald Trump's children allegedly took part in a scheme to defraud tax authorities.

Allen Weisselberg, a former chief financial officer of the Trump Organization, appeared in court on Thursday, outlining how two of Donald Trump's children allegedly took part in a scheme to defraud tax authorities. Weisselberg claimed that Donald Trump, or occasionally Eric Trump or Donald Trump Jr., wrote cheques totalling up to $100,000 to cover the cost of private school tuition of Weisselberg's grandchildren. Weisselberg claimed that he subsequently gave the controller of the business the order to subtract $100,000 from his pay, enabling him to declare a lower income. The Trumps signed copies of some of the cheques that were displayed in court. Don't forget, I'm going to pay you back for this, Weisselberg claimed he promised Trump the first time he signed a tuition cheque. He claimed that the wage reduction served as payment. Weisselberg, two Trump Organization businesses, and other defendants are charged with numerous counts of fraud and tax evasion. In August, Weisselberg pleaded guilty to charges brought against him by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, which claimed he received more than $1.7 million in untaxed pay. Also Read: Kherson residents switch Russian SIM cards with Ukrainian ones Over the course of the first two days of evidence, Weisselberg, who is still employed by the Trump Organization, has detailed a long list of advantages he and other executives got, for which he claims their incomes were also decreased to avoid paying taxes. He claimed that in the case of himself and many other executives, significant bonus payments made to the executives in the manner of independent contractors to Trump Organization firms served to offset the compensation decreases. (with inputs from agencies)

Trump Org ex-CFO Weisselberg testifies Trumps played role in defrauding tax authorities

Democrats from US House of Representatives have unearthed information that may attract allegations that former US president Donald Trump profited from state visits during his presidency. It has reportedly been found that foreign dignitaries including from Saudi Arabia and China, spent about USD 750,000 on their stay in Trump-owned Waldorf Astoria. This may renew scrutiny about whether Trump profited from his time in the Oval Office.

The documents have been obtained from Trump's longtime accounting firm Mazars USA. The information was obtained by a subpoena. The documents even have Hotel ledgers and receipts.

House Oversight and Reform Committee chairwoman Carolyn Maloney said that documents "sharply call into question the extent to which President Trump was guided by his personal financial interest while in office rather than the best interests of the American people."

Maloney was quoted by CBS News&nbsp;

She wrote a letter to acting US archivist and said that the documents obtained by the committee show that governments of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, The UAE and even China spent large amount of money at the Trump International Hotel during the same time period when they were seeking to influence US foreign policy.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-filings-show-trump-handled-classified-documents-after-leaving-office-533884">Court filings show Trump handled 'classified' documents after leaving office</a>

For instance, the documents reportedly show that in 2017, when Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak had come to US. His delegation spent at least USD 259,724 for an eight-day stay at the hotel. Rate of one night's stay in the presidential suite was USD 10,000. The delegation also took "coffee breaks" worth USD 9229.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Democrats from US House of Representatives have unearthed information that may attract allegations that former US president Donald Trump profited from state visits during his presidency.

Democrats from US House of Representatives have unearthed information that may attract allegations that former US president Donald Trump profited from state visits during his presidency. It has reportedly been found that foreign dignitaries including from Saudi Arabia and China, spent about USD 750,000 on their stay in Trump-owned Waldorf Astoria. This may renew scrutiny about whether Trump profited from his time in the Oval Office. The documents have been obtained from Trump's longtime accounting firm Mazars USA. The information was obtained by a subpoena. The documents even have Hotel ledgers and receipts. House Oversight and Reform Committee chairwoman Carolyn Maloney said that documents "sharply call into question the extent to which President Trump was guided by his personal financial interest while in office rather than the best interests of the American people." Maloney was quoted by CBS News She wrote a letter to acting US archivist and said that the documents obtained by the committee show that governments of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, The UAE and even China spent large amount of money at the Trump International Hotel during the same time period when they were seeking to influence US foreign policy. Also Read | Court filings show Trump handled 'classified' documents after leaving office For instance, the documents reportedly show that in 2017, when Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak had come to US. His delegation spent at least USD 259,724 for an eight-day stay at the hotel. Rate of one night's stay in the presidential suite was USD 10,000. The delegation also took "coffee breaks" worth USD 9229. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Did Trump's hotel profit from his presidency? Democrats think so

Former US president Donald Trump may not yet have officially declared that he will run for presidential elections in 2024, but hints from his camps point to such a possibility. In an interesting development, share prices of companies linked to Trump have risen.

Shares of Digital World Acquisition Corp (DWAC), the blank-check company looking to take Donald Trump's social media venture public, rallied on Monday.

Watch |&nbsp;US Midterm Polls: Former President Donald Trump rallies for Florida governor

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The share price saw a massive jump of more than 24 per cent. Each share now costs USD 21.55. This has brought year-to-date losses to 58 per cent.

"The prospect of Donald Trump seizing the political spotlight again appears to have put a rocket under the share price of DWAC amid expectation there could be a sharp increase in users on the former President's highly controversial social media platform," said Susannah Streeter, senior investment and markets analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown.

The rally in DWAC, which was also the fifth most trending ticker on retail investor-focused social media forum Stocktwits, helped lift shares of other Trump-linked companies.

DWAC on Thursday extended the deadline to Nov. 22. for investors' approval to complete its merger deal with Trump Media and Technology Group.

Software developer Phunware Inc, which was hired by Trump's 2020 presidential reelection campaign to build a phone app, jumped 18.3%.

Rumble Inc, a Canadian video platform popular with conservatives, however, slipped 3.5%. Trump's social media venture Truth Social announced in August it would join Rumble's new ad platform as its first publisher in August.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-boss-elon-musk-asks-us-voters-to-vote-for-republican-congress-531962">US Midterms: Twitter boss Elon Musk asks Americans to vote for 'Republican Congress'</a>

Artificial intelligence solutions company Remark Holdings, which has been linked to the former president on social media sites, gained 8.6%. Reuters could not independently verify the link between Trump and Remark.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former US president Donald Trump may not yet have officially declared that he will run for presidential elections in 2024, but hints from his camps point to such a possibility.

Former US president Donald Trump may not yet have officially declared that he will run for presidential elections in 2024, but hints from his camps point to such a possibility. In an interesting development, share prices of companies linked to Trump have risen. Shares of Digital World Acquisition Corp (DWAC), the blank-check company looking to take Donald Trump's social media venture public, rallied on Monday. Watch | US Midterm Polls: Former President Donald Trump rallies for Florida governor Watch | US Midterm Polls: Former President Donald Trump rallies for Florida governor × The share price saw a massive jump of more than 24 per cent. Each share now costs USD 21.55. This has brought year-to-date losses to 58 per cent. "The prospect of Donald Trump seizing the political spotlight again appears to have put a rocket under the share price of DWAC amid expectation there could be a sharp increase in users on the former President's highly controversial social media platform," said Susannah Streeter, senior investment and markets analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown. The rally in DWAC, which was also the fifth most trending ticker on retail investor-focused social media forum Stocktwits, helped lift shares of other Trump-linked companies. DWAC on Thursday extended the deadline to Nov. 22. for investors' approval to complete its merger deal with Trump Media and Technology Group. Software developer Phunware Inc, which was hired by Trump's 2020 presidential reelection campaign to build a phone app, jumped 18.3%. Rumble Inc, a Canadian video platform popular with conservatives, however, slipped 3.5%. Trump's social media venture Truth Social announced in August it would join Rumble's new ad platform as its first publisher in August. Also Read | US Midterms: Twitter boss Elon Musk asks Americans to vote for 'Republican Congress' Artificial intelligence solutions company Remark Holdings, which has been linked to the former president on social media sites, gained 8.6%. Reuters could not independently verify the link between Trump and Remark. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

As Trump hints presidential re-run, shares of companies linked to him soar

US&nbsp; President Joe Biden warned that democracy is under assault by election deniers and threatened by some candidates contesting for the midterm elections who he said would refuse to accept the results of November 8.&nbsp;

Biden began his speech on Wednesday by addressing the recent attack on US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband Paul Pelosi and said “Thankfully, by the grace of God, all survived,”.

Biden noted that the assailant was looking for the Speaker, Paul Pelosi and was asking ‘Where’s Nancy?’”. He added, “those were the same words used by the mob who stormed the Capitol on January 6”.&nbsp;

In the almost 20-minute speech, Biden also spoke about the importance of the upcoming election, as well as some of the issues surrounding “political violence and voter intimidation over the past two years.”

He added, “We don’t settle our differences in America with a riot, a mob or a bullet or a hammer. We settle them peacefully at the ballot box.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-us-midterms-biden-makes-another-gaffe-says-there-are-54-states-529576">Ahead of midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’ in the US</a>

The incumbent US president also addressed some of the major issues faced by the country. 
 
“There is a lot at stake in these midterm elections from our economy, the safety of our streets, personal freedoms, future of healthcare, to our personal freedoms, the future of healthcare, social security, medicare, it’s all important…but there is something else at stake. Democracy itself”.&nbsp;

He then went on to hold former US president Donald Trump responsible for spreading the “Big Lie” that the 2020 election was stolen as well as inspiring the election deniers and candidates who “won’t commit to accepting the results of the elections they’re in."

This includes candidates running for every level of office in America including, governor, Congress, attorney general, secretary of state and so on, said Biden.&nbsp; 
 
“American democracy is under attack because the defeated former president of the United States refused to accept the results of the 2020 election…to accept the will of the people…the fact that he lost. He’s abused his power and put loyalty to himself before loyalty to the Constitution,” said Biden.&nbsp;

The US president also urged people to recognise what’s at stake, calling this a moment of “national and generational importance,” and ended his speech saying that “the fate of the nation” lies with the people.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-tensions-run-high-as-midterms-near-a-crucial-test-for-biden-administration-530400">United States: Tensions run high as midterms near, a crucial test for Biden administration</a>

These remarks were made in the context of hundreds of candidates who have reportedly continued to delegitimise the outcome of the 2020 presidential election and some of whom are poised to hold critical offices in the country.

A recent poll by Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that at least 52% of Americans believe that democracy is not working well.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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US President Joe Biden warned that democracy is under assault by election deniers and threatened by some candidates contesting for the midterm elections who he said would refuse to accept the results of November 8.

US President Joe Biden warned that democracy is under assault by election deniers and threatened by some candidates contesting for the midterm elections who he said would refuse to accept the results of November 8. Biden began his speech on Wednesday by addressing the recent attack on US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband Paul Pelosi and said “Thankfully, by the grace of God, all survived,”. Biden noted that the assailant was looking for the Speaker, Paul Pelosi and was asking ‘Where’s Nancy?’”. He added, “those were the same words used by the mob who stormed the Capitol on January 6”. In the almost 20-minute speech, Biden also spoke about the importance of the upcoming election, as well as some of the issues surrounding “political violence and voter intimidation over the past two years.” He added, “We don’t settle our differences in America with a riot, a mob or a bullet or a hammer. We settle them peacefully at the ballot box.” ALSO READ: Ahead of midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’ in the US The incumbent US president also addressed some of the major issues faced by the country. “There is a lot at stake in these midterm elections from our economy, the safety of our streets, personal freedoms, future of healthcare, to our personal freedoms, the future of healthcare, social security, medicare, it’s all important…but there is something else at stake. Democracy itself”. He then went on to hold former US president Donald Trump responsible for spreading the “Big Lie” that the 2020 election was stolen as well as inspiring the election deniers and candidates who “won’t commit to accepting the results of the elections they’re in." This includes candidates running for every level of office in America including, governor, Congress, attorney general, secretary of state and so on, said Biden. “American democracy is under attack because the defeated former president of the United States refused to accept the results of the 2020 election…to accept the will of the people…the fact that he lost. He’s abused his power and put loyalty to himself before loyalty to the Constitution,” said Biden. The US president also urged people to recognise what’s at stake, calling this a moment of “national and generational importance,” and ended his speech saying that “the fate of the nation” lies with the people. ALSO WATCH: United States: Tensions run high as midterms near, a crucial test for Biden administration These remarks were made in the context of hundreds of candidates who have reportedly continued to delegitimise the outcome of the 2020 presidential election and some of whom are poised to hold critical offices in the country. A recent poll by Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that at least 52% of Americans believe that democracy is not working well. (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.

'Democracy at stake': Biden warns about Republican election deniers ahead of US midterms

On Friday, former US president Donald Trump praised Jair Bolsonaro as a "great" leader and urged Brazilians to give him a second term in office.

"VOTE for President JAIR BOLSONARO -- HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!!!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

Trump referred to Sunday's second-round vote as a "great day for Brazil."&nbsp;

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Bolsonaro's rival, came under fire from him, who he referred to as "a Radical Left Lunatic who will quickly destroy your country."&nbsp;

Trump promoted Bolsonaro's reelection for the second time in the post, calling him "a fantastic man, one of the great presidents of any country in the world" prior to the first-round vote on October 2.

The Trump of the Tropics has been used to describe Bolsonaro. The former military officer's brazen demeanour and contempt for the media mirror the previous US president's attitude.&nbsp;

Instead of using his nickname, "Lula," Trump derided Bolsonaro's opponent by calling him&nbsp;"Lulu."&nbsp;

In the Sunday runoff, polls indicate that Lula has a slight advantage, although Bolsonaro shocked polling companies by outperforming expectations in the first round on October 2.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-is-now-in-sane-hands-says-trump-after-musk-purchase-529198">Twitter is 'now in sane hands,' says Donald Trump after takeover by Elon Musk</a>

Taking a page from Trump, Bolsonaro has claimed without evidence that the election may have been compromised by fraud and has warned that if he loses, he may reject the results.

Despite keeping a larger distance from Bolsonaro, President Joe Biden met with him in June at a regional gathering in Los Angeles and avoided outright condemnation.

Ned Price, a spokesman for the State Department, responded that the first round&nbsp;election demonstrated&nbsp;the integrity of the Brazilian democratic system when asked about the polls and the possibility that Bolsonaro might refuse to concede the loss.

(with inputs from agencies)

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On Friday, former US president Donald Trump praised Jair Bolsonaro as a "great" leader and urged Brazilians to give him a second term in office. "VOTE for President JAIR BOLSONARO -- HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

On Friday, former US president Donald Trump praised Jair Bolsonaro as a "great" leader and urged Brazilians to give him a second term in office. "VOTE for President JAIR BOLSONARO -- HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!!!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. Trump referred to Sunday's second-round vote as a "great day for Brazil." Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Bolsonaro's rival, came under fire from him, who he referred to as "a Radical Left Lunatic who will quickly destroy your country." Trump promoted Bolsonaro's reelection for the second time in the post, calling him "a fantastic man, one of the great presidents of any country in the world" prior to the first-round vote on October 2. The Trump of the Tropics has been used to describe Bolsonaro. The former military officer's brazen demeanour and contempt for the media mirror the previous US president's attitude. Instead of using his nickname, "Lula," Trump derided Bolsonaro's opponent by calling him "Lulu." In the Sunday runoff, polls indicate that Lula has a slight advantage, although Bolsonaro shocked polling companies by outperforming expectations in the first round on October 2. Also Read: Twitter is 'now in sane hands,' says Donald Trump after takeover by Elon Musk Taking a page from Trump, Bolsonaro has claimed without evidence that the election may have been compromised by fraud and has warned that if he loses, he may reject the results. Despite keeping a larger distance from Bolsonaro, President Joe Biden met with him in June at a regional gathering in Los Angeles and avoided outright condemnation. Ned Price, a spokesman for the State Department, responded that the first round election demonstrated the integrity of the Brazilian democratic system when asked about the polls and the possibility that Bolsonaro might refuse to concede the loss. (with inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump hails Bolsonaro as 'great' leader, asks Brazilians to reelect him

Former US President Donald Trump on Friday (October 28) welcomed billionaire Elon Musk's purchase of social media platform Twitter. He said that he was pleased the platform was "now in sane hands." Musk concluded his bid to buy Twitter for USD 44 billion on Thursday after uncertainty and speculation that lasted for months.&nbsp;

"I am very happy that Twitter is now in sane hands, and will no longer be run by Radical Left Lunatics and Maniacs that truly hate our country," Trump said on his Truth Social platform.

Elon Musk, chief of Tesla and SpaceX, has already indicated that he would lift Twitter's ban on Trump. The platform had suspended Trump's account after January 6, 2021 riots on Capitol Hill which saw Trump supporters attacking US Capitol building. Trump was famous for his off the cuff tweets which even entered the realm of politics and policy-making, all while he himself was the US President.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-bird-is-freed-musk-memes-flood-the-internet-after-twitter-takeover-529109">'The bird is freed': Musk memes flood the internet after Twitter takeover</a>

On Friday, though Trump welcomed Musk's acquisition of Twitter, he did not indicate whether he would want to make a comeback on the platform.

The prospect of Musk running Twitter has alarmed activists who fear a surge in harassment and misinformation, with Musk himself known for trolling other Twitter users.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-likely-to-assume-ceo-role-post-twitter-takeover-might-reverse-life-bans-report-529099">Musk likely to assume CEO role post Twitter takeover, might reverse life bans: Report</a> 
 
Far-right users celebrated the purchase, posting comments such as "masks don't work" and other taunts, under the belief that moderation rules will now be relaxed.

"Twitter must now work hard to rid itself of all of the bots and fake accounts that have hurt it so badly. It will be much smaller, but better," Trump said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former US President Donald Trump on Friday (October 28) welcomed billionaire Elon Musk's purchase of social media platform Twitter. He said that he was pleased the platform was "now in sane hands.

Former US President Donald Trump on Friday (October 28) welcomed billionaire Elon Musk's purchase of social media platform Twitter. He said that he was pleased the platform was "now in sane hands." Musk concluded his bid to buy Twitter for USD 44 billion on Thursday after uncertainty and speculation that lasted for months. "I am very happy that Twitter is now in sane hands, and will no longer be run by Radical Left Lunatics and Maniacs that truly hate our country," Trump said on his Truth Social platform. Elon Musk, chief of Tesla and SpaceX, has already indicated that he would lift Twitter's ban on Trump. The platform had suspended Trump's account after January 6, 2021 riots on Capitol Hill which saw Trump supporters attacking US Capitol building. Trump was famous for his off the cuff tweets which even entered the realm of politics and policy-making, all while he himself was the US President. Also Read | 'The bird is freed': Musk memes flood the internet after Twitter takeover On Friday, though Trump welcomed Musk's acquisition of Twitter, he did not indicate whether he would want to make a comeback on the platform. The prospect of Musk running Twitter has alarmed activists who fear a surge in harassment and misinformation, with Musk himself known for trolling other Twitter users. Also Read | Musk likely to assume CEO role post Twitter takeover, might reverse life bans: Report Far-right users celebrated the purchase, posting comments such as "masks don't work" and other taunts, under the belief that moderation rules will now be relaxed. "Twitter must now work hard to rid itself of all of the bots and fake accounts that have hurt it so badly. It will be much smaller, but better," Trump said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Twitter is 'now in sane hands,' says Donald Trump after takeover by Elon Musk

A US congressional report released on Monday (October 17) has revealed that former US president Donald Trump's administration prevented health officials from providing accurate information about Covid-19. This, says the report, was done to back Trump's overly optimistic view of the outbreak.

Former US president Trump was heavily criticised for his handling of the pandemic. Trump publicly endorsed medicines and treatment methods which were not scientifically proven.

Investigators for the congressional report were told by senior staff at US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that Trump aides bullied staff and tried to rewrite reports.&nbsp;

Officials took "unprecedented steps to insert political appointees into the publication process and rebut CDC's scientific reports, including drafting op-eds and other public messaging designed to directly counteract CDC's findings," the report said.

To make the congressional report, investigators interviews a dozen current and former CDC officials as well as senior administration figures.

The panel that has made the report, has described how Trump appointees at Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) tried to take over CDC's weekly scientific journal, the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), editing or blocking articles they believed might prove harmful to Trump.

Trump appointees had sought to "alter the contents, rebut, or delay the release" of 18 MMWRs and a health alert, succeeding on at least five occasions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A US congressional report released on Monday (October 17) has revealed that former US president Donald Trump's administration prevented health officials from providing accurate information about Covid-19.

A US congressional report released on Monday (October 17) has revealed that former US president Donald Trump's administration prevented health officials from providing accurate information about Covid-19. This, says the report, was done to back Trump's overly optimistic view of the outbreak. Former US president Trump was heavily criticised for his handling of the pandemic. Trump publicly endorsed medicines and treatment methods which were not scientifically proven. Investigators for the congressional report were told by senior staff at US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that Trump aides bullied staff and tried to rewrite reports. Officials took "unprecedented steps to insert political appointees into the publication process and rebut CDC's scientific reports, including drafting op-eds and other public messaging designed to directly counteract CDC's findings," the report said. To make the congressional report, investigators interviews a dozen current and former CDC officials as well as senior administration figures. The panel that has made the report, has described how Trump appointees at Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) tried to take over CDC's weekly scientific journal, the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), editing or blocking articles they believed might prove harmful to Trump. Trump appointees had sought to "alter the contents, rebut, or delay the release" of 18 MMWRs and a health alert, succeeding on at least five occasions. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US probe reveals Trump aides blocked correct information on Covid

The US Congress committee probing US Capitol Hill violence has voted to subpoena former US president Donald Trump. A subpoena forces a person to remain present before competent authority to answer questions.

"This committee will demand a full accounting to every American person of the events of January 6," said Bennie Thompson, the chairman of the investigating House Committee.

"So it is our obligation to seek Donald Trump's testimony."

The deadly US Capitol riots erupted on January 6, 2021 when Trump supporters attacked US Congress at a time when lawmakers were certifying current US President Joe Biden's electoral victory.

Before the riots, Trump had addressed his supporters in a rally and had said that he will "march with" them. Eventually Trump did not take part.

However, the unprecedented attack on US Capitol building led to evacuation of lawmakers. The security personnel were unable to control the crowds and in some instances, even had to draw our guns to deter the rampaging mob.

In what was expected to be its final hearing before the midterm elections, the House panel of seven Democrats and two Republicans agreed unanimously to compel Trump's appearance before investigators.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-ag-asks-judge-to-bar-donald-trump-from-moving-assets-to-new-company-525211">New York AG asks judge to bar Donald Trump from moving assets to new company</a>

"We need to be fair and thorough and gain a full context for the evidence we've obtained. But the need for this committee to hear from Donald Trump goes beyond our fact-finding," said Bennie Thompson, the chairman of the committee.

"This is a question about accountability to the American people. He must be accountable. He is required to answer for his actions."

Subpoenas from the panel have proved difficult to enforce, with former White House aide Steve Bannon the only target convicted of contempt of Congress for refusing to comply.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US Congress committee probing US Capitol Hill violence has voted to subpoena former US president Donald Trump. A subpoena forces a person to remain present before competent authority to answer questions.

The US Congress committee probing US Capitol Hill violence has voted to subpoena former US president Donald Trump. A subpoena forces a person to remain present before competent authority to answer questions. "This committee will demand a full accounting to every American person of the events of January 6," said Bennie Thompson, the chairman of the investigating House Committee. "So it is our obligation to seek Donald Trump's testimony." The deadly US Capitol riots erupted on January 6, 2021 when Trump supporters attacked US Congress at a time when lawmakers were certifying current US President Joe Biden's electoral victory. Before the riots, Trump had addressed his supporters in a rally and had said that he will "march with" them. Eventually Trump did not take part. However, the unprecedented attack on US Capitol building led to evacuation of lawmakers. The security personnel were unable to control the crowds and in some instances, even had to draw our guns to deter the rampaging mob. In what was expected to be its final hearing before the midterm elections, the House panel of seven Democrats and two Republicans agreed unanimously to compel Trump's appearance before investigators. Also Read | New York AG asks judge to bar Donald Trump from moving assets to new company "We need to be fair and thorough and gain a full context for the evidence we've obtained. But the need for this committee to hear from Donald Trump goes beyond our fact-finding," said Bennie Thompson, the chairman of the committee. "This is a question about accountability to the American people. He must be accountable. He is required to answer for his actions." Subpoenas from the panel have proved difficult to enforce, with former White House aide Steve Bannon the only target convicted of contempt of Congress for refusing to comply. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US Capitol attack probe panel subpoenas Donald Trump

There is a lot of the good, the bad and the ugly that is common to the 1920s and 2020s.&nbsp;

The “Roaring 1920s”, as the Americans used to call it, was a decade of change brought on by cars, radios and telephones. The radio brought the world into people’s homes. The telephone, like the automobile, connected people. A world rooted in and driven by communication and mobility triggered unforeseen development in America and Europe. It was a decade of economic growth and expanding prosperity marked by a cultural and social dynamism that saw both fashion and music make tremendous advances. Radio, telephone, films, automobiles, aviation, electricity and electrical goods spurred industrial growth and transformed millions of lives in the West. &nbsp;

The ‘flu epidemic that broke out in 1918 and is estimated to have killed between 20 and 50 million raged on till 1920 and was followed by disastrous after-effects. That was also the decade of migration and globalisation (good); violent nativism (bad); and, rampant racism, the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan and genocide (ugly). &nbsp;&nbsp;

The political and economic processes of the 1920s paved the way for the unimaginable horrors of the 1930s. The financial crisis that gripped the US and the economic distress in Europe paved the way for the rise of fascist forces which seized power and unleashed widespread hatred and violence against Jews and other minorities that made World War II inevitable.&nbsp;

Cut to the 2020s. Even those who remember this history are condemned to repeat it. The awesome technological revolution has spawned supercomputers, the internet, the cellular phone and the hydra-headed monster that is the media and social media. These in turn, both as medium and message, have brought about an explosion of information and knowledge extending to the remotest and poorest parts of the world connected in every way by multiple infrastructures. &nbsp;

The good that comes with technology, computers and cars do cannot be separated from the bad, the ugly and the evil that exist alongside. &nbsp;

Thus, 100 years later, despite all the advancements in medicine the world could not prevent the pandemic of Covid-19, which spared no country and killed millions. There is already a gathering economic crisis where large sections of the population in Africa, South America and the poor quarters of Asia are facing the threat of starvation. Hunger also looms large in regions which have been cut off from food supplies, first by the epidemic and now by the war in Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

There is migration, racism, intolerance, killings, persecution of minorities and, like in the 1920s, a resurgence of fascist forces in the developing and the developed parts of the world. &nbsp;

The latest reminder that the world today may be in for the ugly consequences that flowed from the events and developments of the 1920s, is former US President Donald Trump extending open support to the fascist far-right in Spain. Trump did this in a video recording that was shown at a rally of the far-right Vox party in Madrid. Trumped thanked Vox and its leader Santiago Abascal for the “great job” they were doing. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Vox, the third largest party in the Spanish parliament, is: opposed to immigrants, shuns gender equality, hostile to Islam and openly embraces the legacy of the fascist dictator Gen Francisco Franco. The rally was endorsed by the likes of Giorgia Meloni, leader of the neo-fascist Brothers of Italy that swept to power in the recent elections; and, Hungary’s Viktor Orban, who has emerged as an icon for the new generation of European fascists.&nbsp;

The big difference between the 1920s and the 2020s is that, in the last century, US presidents did not support the fascists or cheer them on. Instead, the US entered the War to fight fascism. In the 2020s, a former US president, who may well return to the White House in 2024, along with Senator Ted Cruz, has firmly cast their lot with the forces of fascism, intolerance and hate at home and abroad.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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There is a lot of the good, the bad and the ugly that is common to the 1920s and 2020s. The “Roaring 1920s”, as the Americans used to call it, was a decade of change brought on by cars, radios and telephones.

There is a lot of the good, the bad and the ugly that is common to the 1920s and 2020s. The “Roaring 1920s”, as the Americans used to call it, was a decade of change brought on by cars, radios and telephones. The radio brought the world into people’s homes. The telephone, like the automobile, connected people. A world rooted in and driven by communication and mobility triggered unforeseen development in America and Europe. It was a decade of economic growth and expanding prosperity marked by a cultural and social dynamism that saw both fashion and music make tremendous advances. Radio, telephone, films, automobiles, aviation, electricity and electrical goods spurred industrial growth and transformed millions of lives in the West. The ‘flu epidemic that broke out in 1918 and is estimated to have killed between 20 and 50 million raged on till 1920 and was followed by disastrous after-effects. That was also the decade of migration and globalisation (good); violent nativism (bad); and, rampant racism, the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan and genocide (ugly). The political and economic processes of the 1920s paved the way for the unimaginable horrors of the 1930s. The financial crisis that gripped the US and the economic distress in Europe paved the way for the rise of fascist forces which seized power and unleashed widespread hatred and violence against Jews and other minorities that made World War II inevitable. Cut to the 2020s. Even those who remember this history are condemned to repeat it. The awesome technological revolution has spawned supercomputers, the internet, the cellular phone and the hydra-headed monster that is the media and social media. These in turn, both as medium and message, have brought about an explosion of information and knowledge extending to the remotest and poorest parts of the world connected in every way by multiple infrastructures. The good that comes with technology, computers and cars do cannot be separated from the bad, the ugly and the evil that exist alongside. Thus, 100 years later, despite all the advancements in medicine the world could not prevent the pandemic of Covid-19, which spared no country and killed millions. There is already a gathering economic crisis where large sections of the population in Africa, South America and the poor quarters of Asia are facing the threat of starvation. Hunger also looms large in regions which have been cut off from food supplies, first by the epidemic and now by the war in Ukraine. There is migration, racism, intolerance, killings, persecution of minorities and, like in the 1920s, a resurgence of fascist forces in the developing and the developed parts of the world. The latest reminder that the world today may be in for the ugly consequences that flowed from the events and developments of the 1920s, is former US President Donald Trump extending open support to the fascist far-right in Spain. Trump did this in a video recording that was shown at a rally of the far-right Vox party in Madrid. Trumped thanked Vox and its leader Santiago Abascal for the “great job” they were doing. Vox, the third largest party in the Spanish parliament, is: opposed to immigrants, shuns gender equality, hostile to Islam and openly embraces the legacy of the fascist dictator Gen Francisco Franco. The rally was endorsed by the likes of Giorgia Meloni, leader of the neo-fascist Brothers of Italy that swept to power in the recent elections; and, Hungary’s Viktor Orban, who has emerged as an icon for the new generation of European fascists. The big difference between the 1920s and the 2020s is that, in the last century, US presidents did not support the fascists or cheer them on. Instead, the US entered the War to fight fascism. In the 2020s, a former US president, who may well return to the White House in 2024, along with Senator Ted Cruz, has firmly cast their lot with the forces of fascism, intolerance and hate at home and abroad. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

WION Spotlight | Trump says Spain's neo-fascists doing a 'great job'

Some members of Donald Trump's White House have yet to turn over presidential records that are government property, the US National Archives has informed Congress.

"While there is no easy way to establish absolute accountability, we do know that we do not have custody of everything we should," the acting US archivist, Debra Steidel Wall, said in a letter to Representative Carolyn Maloney, a Democrat who heads the House Oversight Committee.

The letter -- which was dated Friday but made public by US media late Saturday -- did not identify the White House staffers.

But it said that some staffers had used private electronic messaging accounts to conduct official business, and not turned those messages over as required by law.

Wall said in her letter that the National Archives -- which is charged with preserving government records -- would consult with the Justice Department about possible legal action "for the recovery of records unlawfully removed."

Wall's letter, sent in response to a request from Maloney for an update on the legal battle over sensitive materials removed from the White House by Trump, did not say whether the former president had yet turned over all such documents.

She referred Maloney to the Justice Department "in light of its ongoing investigation."

After repeated efforts by the federal government to secure all documents removed by Trump -- and after his lawyers insisted everything had been returned -- a team of FBI agents in August searched his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida and recovered more than 10,000 records, many of them bearing secret or classified markings.

Trump has claimed that many of the documents were private or covered by presidential or attorney-client privilege, and has turned to the courts in an ongoing bid to regain control.

The Justice Department has already taken legal action to secure records from one Trump aide, his former trade advisor Peter Navarro.&nbsp;

Navarro has separately been indicted for refusing to cooperate with a congressional inquiry into the January 6, 2021 assault on the US Capitol.

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Some members of Donald Trump's White House have yet to turn over presidential records that are government property, the US National Archives has informed Congress.

Some members of Donald Trump's White House have yet to turn over presidential records that are government property, the US National Archives has informed Congress. "While there is no easy way to establish absolute accountability, we do know that we do not have custody of everything we should," the acting US archivist, Debra Steidel Wall, said in a letter to Representative Carolyn Maloney, a Democrat who heads the House Oversight Committee. The letter -- which was dated Friday but made public by US media late Saturday -- did not identify the White House staffers. But it said that some staffers had used private electronic messaging accounts to conduct official business, and not turned those messages over as required by law. Wall said in her letter that the National Archives -- which is charged with preserving government records -- would consult with the Justice Department about possible legal action "for the recovery of records unlawfully removed." Wall's letter, sent in response to a request from Maloney for an update on the legal battle over sensitive materials removed from the White House by Trump, did not say whether the former president had yet turned over all such documents. She referred Maloney to the Justice Department "in light of its ongoing investigation." After repeated efforts by the federal government to secure all documents removed by Trump -- and after his lawyers insisted everything had been returned -- a team of FBI agents in August searched his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida and recovered more than 10,000 records, many of them bearing secret or classified markings. Trump has claimed that many of the documents were private or covered by presidential or attorney-client privilege, and has turned to the courts in an ongoing bid to regain control. The Justice Department has already taken legal action to secure records from one Trump aide, his former trade advisor Peter Navarro. Navarro has separately been indicted for refusing to cooperate with a congressional inquiry into the January 6, 2021 assault on the US Capitol. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Trump White House staffers still keeping documents: US Archives

Former US President Donald Trump is amid mounting lawsuits, his newest legal trouble includes him and his three children – Donald Jr, Ivanka, and Eric, who have allegedly lied about the value of their properties “by billions”.&nbsp;

On the other hand, a civil case by the New York attorney general Letitia James after a long-running investigation and a criminal one by the Manhattan D.A. are set to cost the former president millions. Meanwhile, Trump has vehemently denied any wrongdoings.&nbsp;

The millions of dollars to fight these lawsuits come from Trump’s ongoing political campaign Save America political action committee (PAC). It collects campaign donations from Trump supporters across the United States, said the Federal Election Commission (FEC).&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-for-letitia-james-to-be-disbarred-and-banished-following-fraud-suit-519187">Trump calls for Letitia James to be 'disbarred and banished' following fraud suit</a>

According to BBC, while it is unclear just how much money Trump has spent on these lawsuits, reportedly, in 2022 the Save America PAC has paid more than $1.12 to law firms for defending the former president. Meanwhile, Trump also has a “leadership PAC” which is used to pay expenses that are not covered by campaign committees including, personal travel and leadership expenses, said the report.&nbsp;

Notably, there is no mention of legal bills or any proof of what the money donated is being used for, on Save America's Joint Fundraising Committee’s website. The joint fundraising platform contributes to both Save America and Make America Great Again PACs. However, the $1.12 million spent till now at least $942,000 has been paid to a New Jersey-based attorney Alina Habba’s firm, said BBC.&nbsp;

On the other hand, in July Alan Futerfas, the New York-based attorney reportedly received nearly $185,000 for representing Trump’s three children in the state’s fraud case against them. Meanwhile, in the Mar-a-Lago case, in August alone Trump spent more than $3.8 million in legal fees following the FBI raid on his Palm Beach estate in Florida. At least $3 million went to a nearby Florida firm, the media reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ny-top-prosecutor-files-financial-fraud-lawsuit-against-trump-his-children-ex-prez-dubs-it-a-witch-hunt-518517">Donald Trump and children sued for financial fraud; Ex-Prez dubs it 'another witch hunt'</a>

The former president also faced lawsuits in Georgia when he illegally tried to overturn the 2020 presidential election result and of the $3.8 million, smaller amounts went to lawyers and used for other legal issues Trump is entangled in currently. Meanwhile, the Republican National Committee (RNC) or the Republican Party also has a hand in paying for Trump’s legal bills including the ongoing New York attorney general's investigation.&nbsp;

According to a report by Politico, in late August, the RNC did not pay for lawsuits related to the Mar-a-Lago case and also threatened to stop paying legal fees if Trump were to formally announce his run for the upcoming presidential elections in 2024.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-releases-list-of-materials-seized-from-donald-trumps-mar-a-lago-home-512492">US court releases detailed list of materials seized from Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home</a>

However, Trump can continue to use these funds as these expenses often fall in the “grey area” which is left for the Electoral Commission to take a call on, Erin Chlopak, a campaign finance expert, told BBC. The commission decides if the expense is “personal” or if it would exist outside of a person’s status as a “candidate or officeholder, in which case the money can be used”.&nbsp;

Chlopak, also noted how there is a “real problem in campaign finance law,” where they have not only seen the use of campaign funds for legal bills but also they are blatantly used for personal expenses like “travel, dining out at expensive restaurants and staying in hotels.” 
&nbsp;

Former US President Donald Trump is amid mounting lawsuits, his newest legal trouble includes him and his three children – Donald Jr, Ivanka, and Eric, who have allegedly lied about the value of their properties “by billions”.

Former US President Donald Trump is amid mounting lawsuits, his newest legal trouble includes him and his three children – Donald Jr, Ivanka, and Eric, who have allegedly lied about the value of their properties “by billions”. On the other hand, a civil case by the New York attorney general Letitia James after a long-running investigation and a criminal one by the Manhattan D.A. are set to cost the former president millions. Meanwhile, Trump has vehemently denied any wrongdoings. The millions of dollars to fight these lawsuits come from Trump’s ongoing political campaign Save America political action committee (PAC). It collects campaign donations from Trump supporters across the United States, said the Federal Election Commission (FEC). ALSO READ: Trump calls for Letitia James to be 'disbarred and banished' following fraud suit According to BBC, while it is unclear just how much money Trump has spent on these lawsuits, reportedly, in 2022 the Save America PAC has paid more than $1.12 to law firms for defending the former president. Meanwhile, Trump also has a “leadership PAC” which is used to pay expenses that are not covered by campaign committees including, personal travel and leadership expenses, said the report. Notably, there is no mention of legal bills or any proof of what the money donated is being used for, on Save America's Joint Fundraising Committee’s website. The joint fundraising platform contributes to both Save America and Make America Great Again PACs. However, the $1.12 million spent till now at least $942,000 has been paid to a New Jersey-based attorney Alina Habba’s firm, said BBC. On the other hand, in July Alan Futerfas, the New York-based attorney reportedly received nearly $185,000 for representing Trump’s three children in the state’s fraud case against them. Meanwhile, in the Mar-a-Lago case, in August alone Trump spent more than $3.8 million in legal fees following the FBI raid on his Palm Beach estate in Florida. At least $3 million went to a nearby Florida firm, the media reported. ALSO READ: Donald Trump and children sued for financial fraud; Ex-Prez dubs it 'another witch hunt' The former president also faced lawsuits in Georgia when he illegally tried to overturn the 2020 presidential election result and of the $3.8 million, smaller amounts went to lawyers and used for other legal issues Trump is entangled in currently. Meanwhile, the Republican National Committee (RNC) or the Republican Party also has a hand in paying for Trump’s legal bills including the ongoing New York attorney general's investigation. According to a report by Politico, in late August, the RNC did not pay for lawsuits related to the Mar-a-Lago case and also threatened to stop paying legal fees if Trump were to formally announce his run for the upcoming presidential elections in 2024. ALSO READ: US court releases detailed list of materials seized from Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home However, Trump can continue to use these funds as these expenses often fall in the “grey area” which is left for the Electoral Commission to take a call on, Erin Chlopak, a campaign finance expert, told BBC. The commission decides if the expense is “personal” or if it would exist outside of a person’s status as a “candidate or officeholder, in which case the money can be used”. Chlopak, also noted how there is a “real problem in campaign finance law,” where they have not only seen the use of campaign funds for legal bills but also they are blatantly used for personal expenses like “travel, dining out at expensive restaurants and staying in hotels.”

US: Donors and the Republican party have paid millions for Trump’s legal troubles, claims report

Former President Donald Trump appeared to more fully embrace QAnon on Saturday, playing a song at a political rally in Ohio that prompted attendees to respond with a salute in reference to the cultlike conspiracy theory’s theme song.

While speaking in Youngstown in support of J.D. Vance, whom he has endorsed as Ohio’s Republican nominee for the Senate, Trump delivered a dark address about the decline of the U.S. over music that was all but identical to a song called “Wwg1wga” — an abbreviation for the QAnon slogan, “Where we go one, we go all.”

As Trump spoke, scores of people in the crowd raised fingers in the air in an apparent reference to the “1” in what they thought was the song’s title. It was the first time in the memory of some Trump aides that such a display had occurred at one of his rallies.

Aides to Trump said the song played at the rally was called “Mirrors,” and it was selected for use in a video that Trump played at conservative meeting CPAC and posted on his social media site, Truth Social. But it sounds strikingly like the QAnon theme song.

Taylor Budowich, a spokesperson for Trump, said, “The fake news, in a pathetic attempt to create controversy and divide America, is brewing up another conspiracy about a royalty-free song from a popular audio library platform.” 
 
Last week Trump posted an image of himself on Truth Social wearing a Q pin on his lapel and under a slogan reading “The Storm is Coming.” Adherents to QAnon believe that the “storm” is the moment when Trump will retake power after vanquishing his enemies, having them arrested and potentially executed on live TV. 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-storm-is-coming-donald-trump-amplifies-qanon-conspiracy-theories-516950">'The storm is coming': Donald Trump amplifies QAnon conspiracy theories</a> 
 
Trump’s speech in Ohio had an apocalyptic tone and seemed intended to delegitimize officials in the FBI and Justice Department who are involved in investigations into both his handling of sensitive government documents removed from the White House and the role that he and allies played in trying to overturn the 2020 election.

Addressing the conflict in Ukraine, Trump also warned that the United States “may end up in World War III.” Assailing reporters, as he often does, he said that there was “no fair press any longer” and repeated his frequent refrain that the news media is “truly the enemy of the people.”

Former President Donald Trump appeared to more fully embrace QAnon on Saturday, playing a song at a political rally in Ohio that prompted attendees to respond with a salute in reference to the cultlike conspiracy theory’s theme song.

Former President Donald Trump appeared to more fully embrace QAnon on Saturday, playing a song at a political rally in Ohio that prompted attendees to respond with a salute in reference to the cultlike conspiracy theory’s theme song. While speaking in Youngstown in support of J.D. Vance, whom he has endorsed as Ohio’s Republican nominee for the Senate, Trump delivered a dark address about the decline of the U.S. over music that was all but identical to a song called “Wwg1wga” — an abbreviation for the QAnon slogan, “Where we go one, we go all.” As Trump spoke, scores of people in the crowd raised fingers in the air in an apparent reference to the “1” in what they thought was the song’s title. It was the first time in the memory of some Trump aides that such a display had occurred at one of his rallies. Aides to Trump said the song played at the rally was called “Mirrors,” and it was selected for use in a video that Trump played at conservative meeting CPAC and posted on his social media site, Truth Social. But it sounds strikingly like the QAnon theme song. Taylor Budowich, a spokesperson for Trump, said, “The fake news, in a pathetic attempt to create controversy and divide America, is brewing up another conspiracy about a royalty-free song from a popular audio library platform.” Last week Trump posted an image of himself on Truth Social wearing a Q pin on his lapel and under a slogan reading “The Storm is Coming.” Adherents to QAnon believe that the “storm” is the moment when Trump will retake power after vanquishing his enemies, having them arrested and potentially executed on live TV. ALSO READ: 'The storm is coming': Donald Trump amplifies QAnon conspiracy theories Trump’s speech in Ohio had an apocalyptic tone and seemed intended to delegitimize officials in the FBI and Justice Department who are involved in investigations into both his handling of sensitive government documents removed from the White House and the role that he and allies played in trying to overturn the 2020 election. Addressing the conflict in Ukraine, Trump also warned that the United States “may end up in World War III.” Assailing reporters, as he often does, he said that there was “no fair press any longer” and repeated his frequent refrain that the news media is “truly the enemy of the people.”

Trump rally plays music resembling QAnon song, and crowds react

Former US president Donald Trump on Saturday (September 3) called sitting President Joe Biden an "enemy of the state". His remarks came as he retaliated against Biden's assertion that Trump supporters are undermining American democracy. This was Trump's first public appearance since the August 8 FBI raids on his Florida home. He was speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania. 
 
He said&nbsp;the&nbsp;FBI raid was a "travesty of justice" and warned it would produce "a backlash the likes of which nobody has ever seen." 
&nbsp; 
"There can be no more vivid example of the very real threats from American freedom than just a few weeks ago, you saw, when we witnessed one of the most shocking abuses of power by any administration in American history," Trump said.&nbsp;

Long-standing protocols in the US mean that the Justice Department and the FBI act independently of the White House, he added.

Watch | FBI finds 90 empty folders at former US President Donald Trump's house

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Trump told cheering supporters at the "Save America" gathering in the city of Wilkes-Barre that the "egregious abuse of the law" was going to produce "a backlash the likes of which nobody has ever seen."

He also slammed Biden's remarks this week. Biden had said that Trump and his supporters "represent an extremism that threatens the very foundations of our republic."

Speaking in Philadelphia, the cradle of US democracy, on Thursday, Biden had launched an extraordinary assault on those&nbsp;Republicans who embrace Trump's "Make America Great Again" ideology -- and urged his own supporters to fight back in what he billed as a "battle for the Soul of the Nation."

Trump slammed it as the "most vicious, hateful and divisive speech ever delivered by an American president."

"He's an enemy of the state. You want to know the truth. The enemy of the state is him," Trump said.

"Republicans in the MAGA movement are not the ones trying to undermine our democracy," continued Trump, who has repeatedly claimed the 2020 presidential election, which he lost, was rigged; and whose party has made unfounded claims of voter fraud a central plank of their platform.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Former US president Donald Trump on Saturday (September 3) called sitting President Joe Biden an "enemy of the state". His remarks came as he retaliated against Biden's assertion that Trump supporters are undermining American democracy.

Former US president Donald Trump on Saturday (September 3) called sitting President Joe Biden an "enemy of the state". His remarks came as he retaliated against Biden's assertion that Trump supporters are undermining American democracy. This was Trump's first public appearance since the August 8 FBI raids on his Florida home. He was speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania. He said the FBI raid was a "travesty of justice" and warned it would produce "a backlash the likes of which nobody has ever seen." "There can be no more vivid example of the very real threats from American freedom than just a few weeks ago, you saw, when we witnessed one of the most shocking abuses of power by any administration in American history," Trump said. Long-standing protocols in the US mean that the Justice Department and the FBI act independently of the White House, he added. Watch | FBI finds 90 empty folders at former US President Donald Trump's house × Trump told cheering supporters at the "Save America" gathering in the city of Wilkes-Barre that the "egregious abuse of the law" was going to produce "a backlash the likes of which nobody has ever seen." He also slammed Biden's remarks this week. Biden had said that Trump and his supporters "represent an extremism that threatens the very foundations of our republic." Speaking in Philadelphia, the cradle of US democracy, on Thursday, Biden had launched an extraordinary assault on those Republicans who embrace Trump's "Make America Great Again" ideology -- and urged his own supporters to fight back in what he billed as a "battle for the Soul of the Nation." Trump slammed it as the "most vicious, hateful and divisive speech ever delivered by an American president." "He's an enemy of the state. You want to know the truth. The enemy of the state is him," Trump said. "Republicans in the MAGA movement are not the ones trying to undermine our democracy," continued Trump, who has repeatedly claimed the 2020 presidential election, which he lost, was rigged; and whose party has made unfounded claims of voter fraud a central plank of their platform. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Trump calls Biden 'enemy of the state', claims MAGA 'movement' is saving democracy

At the request of former President Trump and his legal team, a federal judge on Saturday announced her "preliminary intent to appoint a special master" to review records seized by the FBI during its unprecedented raid on his Mar-a-Lago home earlier this month.

Trump and his legal team filed a motion Monday evening seeking an independent review of the records seized by the FBI during its raid on Mar-a-Lago earlier this month, claiming that the decision to search his private residence just months before the 2022 midterm elections was motivated by "political calculations aimed at diminishing the Republican Party's leading voice, President Trump."

On Saturday afternoon, US District Judge Aileen M. Cannon of the Southern District of Florida announced the decision based on a review of Trump's submissions and "the exceptional circumstances presented."

On Saturday evening, Trump posted on Truth Social that a "Federal Judge in Florida" — Cannon — "just took over the Presidential Records Act case, including the unprecedented, unnecessary, and unannounced FBI/DOJ Raid (Break-In!) of my home." He did not mention her statements about his request for a special master.

At the request of former President Trump and his legal team, a federal judge on Saturday announced her "preliminary intent to appoint a special master" to review records seized by the FBI during its unprecedented raid on his Mar-a-Lago home earlier this month.

At the request of former President Trump and his legal team, a federal judge on Saturday announced her "preliminary intent to appoint a special master" to review records seized by the FBI during its unprecedented raid on his Mar-a-Lago home earlier this month. Trump and his legal team filed a motion Monday evening seeking an independent review of the records seized by the FBI during its raid on Mar-a-Lago earlier this month, claiming that the decision to search his private residence just months before the 2022 midterm elections was motivated by "political calculations aimed at diminishing the Republican Party's leading voice, President Trump." On Saturday afternoon, US District Judge Aileen M. Cannon of the Southern District of Florida announced the decision based on a review of Trump's submissions and "the exceptional circumstances presented." On Saturday evening, Trump posted on Truth Social that a "Federal Judge in Florida" — Cannon — "just took over the Presidential Records Act case, including the unprecedented, unnecessary, and unannounced FBI/DOJ Raid (Break-In!) of my home." He did not mention her statements about his request for a special master.

US: Judge announces intent to appoint special master to review Mar-a-Lago documents

One of Donald J Trump's most trusted executives pleaded guilty to conspiring with Trump's company to carry out a long-running tax scheme, a confession that painted a damning picture of the former president's family business but did not advance a larger investigation into the man himself.

The executive, Allen H Weisselberg, is required to testify at the company's trial if prosecutors choose to call him, and to admit his role in conspiring with Trump's company to carry out the tax scheme, as part of the plea agreement with the Manhattan district attorney's office. That testimony could tip the scales against the Trump Organization as it prepares for an October trial on the same charges.

Weisselberg pleaded guilty to 15 felonies and admitted he failed to pay taxes on $1.7 million in income, which included luxury perks like rent and utilities for a Manhattan apartment, leases for two Mercedes-Benz cars, and private school tuition for his grandchildren.

He admitted hiding those benefits from his accountant in order to underreport his income and knowingly omitting the income from his personal tax returns.

Weisselberg answered the judge's specific questions about the scheme in hushed and barely audible tones, repeatedly saying "Yes, your honour."

He will pay nearly $2 million in back taxes, interest, and penalties as part of the agreement and waive any right to appeal.

Weisselberg will be sentenced after the Trump Organization's trial, according to Judge Juan Merchan. He stated that the deal called for a five-month sentence followed by five years of probation. "I would be at liberty to impose any lawful sentence, which in your case includes imprisonment from 5 to 15 years," the judge warned Weisselberg if he did not meet all of the conditions of the plea agreement.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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One of Donald J Trump's most trusted executives pleaded guilty to conspiring with Trump's company to carry out a long-running tax scheme, a confession that painted a damning picture of the former president's family business but did not advance a larger investigation into the man himself.

One of Donald J Trump's most trusted executives pleaded guilty to conspiring with Trump's company to carry out a long-running tax scheme, a confession that painted a damning picture of the former president's family business but did not advance a larger investigation into the man himself. The executive, Allen H Weisselberg, is required to testify at the company's trial if prosecutors choose to call him, and to admit his role in conspiring with Trump's company to carry out the tax scheme, as part of the plea agreement with the Manhattan district attorney's office. That testimony could tip the scales against the Trump Organization as it prepares for an October trial on the same charges. Weisselberg pleaded guilty to 15 felonies and admitted he failed to pay taxes on $1.7 million in income, which included luxury perks like rent and utilities for a Manhattan apartment, leases for two Mercedes-Benz cars, and private school tuition for his grandchildren. He admitted hiding those benefits from his accountant in order to underreport his income and knowingly omitting the income from his personal tax returns. Weisselberg answered the judge's specific questions about the scheme in hushed and barely audible tones, repeatedly saying "Yes, your honour." He will pay nearly $2 million in back taxes, interest, and penalties as part of the agreement and waive any right to appeal. Weisselberg will be sentenced after the Trump Organization's trial, according to Judge Juan Merchan. He stated that the deal called for a five-month sentence followed by five years of probation. "I would be at liberty to impose any lawful sentence, which in your case includes imprisonment from 5 to 15 years," the judge warned Weisselberg if he did not meet all of the conditions of the plea agreement. (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.

Allen Weisselberg, ex-CFO of Trump, pleads guilty for his role in tax fraud scheme

Just days after losing in the Republican primary race, Liz Cheney said she is considering running for the president during the 2024 US elections.

Liz, who is the daughter of former US vice president Dick Cheney, lost to Trump-backed candidate Harriet Hageman in Wyoming by nearly 40 points. In her speech,&nbsp;Liz warned that,&nbsp;"No American should support election deniers, for any position of genuine responsibility, because their refusal to follow the rule of law will corrupt our future."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-jan-6-rally-tweet-was-a-call-to-arms-cheney-says-trump-tried-to-contact-witness-496836">Also Read:&nbsp;Donald Trump's Jan 6 rally tweet was a 'call to arms'</a>

Former President Donald Trump had repeatedly denied that he had lost the 2020 US polls to Joe Biden as rioters stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Cheney later voted to impeach Trump for inciting the Capitol riots.

Watch:&nbsp;Cheney loses Wyoming primary GOP to Trump-backed candidate

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Cheney, 56, remained defiant after her defeat stating that she will be making her decision to run for president in the "coming months".

"I have said since January 6 that I will do whatever it takes to ensure Donald Trump is never again anywhere near the Oval Office — and I mean it," the US Congresswoman had said as she lost her seat in Wyoming.

Cheney trailed Hageman in pre-poll surveys even as she sought to battle against Trump's hold over the Republican party. However, Trump's supporters in Wyoming's Republican Party have been against Cheney as former president Trump accused her of being "disloyal".

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Just days after losing in the Republican primary race, Liz Cheney said she is considering running for the president during the 2024 US elections. Liz, who is the daughter of former US vice president Dick Cheney, lost to Trump-backed candidate Harriet Hageman in Wyoming by nearly 40 points.

Just days after losing in the Republican primary race, Liz Cheney said she is considering running for the president during the 2024 US elections. Liz, who is the daughter of former US vice president Dick Cheney, lost to Trump-backed candidate Harriet Hageman in Wyoming by nearly 40 points. In her speech, Liz warned that, "No American should support election deniers, for any position of genuine responsibility, because their refusal to follow the rule of law will corrupt our future." Also Read: Donald Trump's Jan 6 rally tweet was a 'call to arms' Former President Donald Trump had repeatedly denied that he had lost the 2020 US polls to Joe Biden as rioters stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Cheney later voted to impeach Trump for inciting the Capitol riots. Watch: Cheney loses Wyoming primary GOP to Trump-backed candidate Cheney, 56, remained defiant after her defeat stating that she will be making her decision to run for president in the "coming months". "I have said since January 6 that I will do whatever it takes to ensure Donald Trump is never again anywhere near the Oval Office — and I mean it," the US Congresswoman had said as she lost her seat in Wyoming. Cheney trailed Hageman in pre-poll surveys even as she sought to battle against Trump's hold over the Republican party. However, Trump's supporters in Wyoming's Republican Party have been against Cheney as former president Trump accused her of being "disloyal". (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Days after losing Wyoming primary, Liz Cheney mulls running for president in 2024

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