Federal prosecutors in the United States have a 2021 audio recording of former President Donald Trump acknowledging he kept a classified Pentagon document about a possible attack on Iran after leaving the White House, according to a CNN report.

Tape shows Trump saying he kept classified document on Iran: Report

<p>In an impeachment that could become a first in decades in Texas history, a Republican-led committee of the state's House of Representatives recommended Thursday to impeach the state’s attorney general, Ken Paxton alleging that his conduct included a slew of abuses of his office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the investigators on the committee, Paxton's actions are believed to be accounted for crimes.&nbsp;This comes as Texas is holding its 88th Legislature's regular session which kicked off on 10 January and will go on through 29 May.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/more-than-5000-new-species-discovered-in-planned-mining-zone-of-pacific-ocean-596583">More than 5,000 new species discovered on seabed of Pacific Ocean</a></p>

<p>Since 2015, Paxton has been under a criminal indictment. He would have to temporarily step down from his position while he is tried in the State Senate. “There’s really no precedent — we’ve really only had two impeachments under the Constitution of 1876,” said a professor of political science at Rice University Mark P. Jones, reported New York Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musks-neuralink-cleared-for-human-test-of-brain-implants-596576">Elon Musk's Neuralink cleared for human test of brain implants</a></p>

<p>“Overturning elections begins behind closed doors,” Paxton tweeted earlier while sharing a video of his office lawyer who was seen arguing against his impeachment in conversation with media personnel at a committee room. It came when the committee was holding its deliberations over the impeachment.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Past impeachments</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The impeachment, if goes forward, will be one of the few others that were conducted in the state’s history decades ago. They include the 1917 governor, who resigned the day before the Senate found him guilty, and the 1970s district judge who was found guilty and expelled. The committee convened in a private executive session before going for the vote.</p>

<p>The committee filed 20 articles of impeachment against Paxton following the vote, accusing him of a long list of abuses including accepting bribes, failing to perform his official duties, obstructing justice in a separate securities fraud case that is pending against him, lying on official documents and reports, and abusing the public trust.</p>

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<p>The committee claimed that many of the accusations pertained to the different ways Paxton had allegedly exploited his authority to promote a specific donor and subsequently fired people in the office who objected to his behaviour. The chairman of the committee and a Republican Andrew Murr termed the abuses “grave offenses” and said that he is intending to bring the accusations against him up for a vote by the House.</p>

<p>The extraordinary developments were likely to test the Republican Party in Texas in new and unpredictable ways, at a time when divisions in the party have increasingly been exposed.</p>

<p>The development also comes at a time when divides inside Republican Party are becoming more apparent in Texas. Speaker Dade Phelan, a Republican representing Beaumont who is regarded as a conservative is in charge of the Texas House. In contrast, Paxton has sided with Texas' most adamant Republican lawmakers as well as former President Donald Trump.</p>

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In an impeachment that could become a first in decades in Texas history, a Republican-led committee of the state's House of Representatives recommended Thursday to impeach the state’s attorney general, Ken Paxton alleging that his conduct included a slew of abuses of his office.

In an impeachment that could become a first in decades in Texas history, a Republican-led committee of the state's House of Representatives recommended Thursday to impeach the state’s attorney general, Ken Paxton alleging that his conduct included a slew of abuses of his office. As per the investigators on the committee, Paxton's actions are believed to be accounted for crimes. This comes as Texas is holding its 88th Legislature's regular session which kicked off on 10 January and will go on through 29 May. Also Read | More than 5,000 new species discovered on seabed of Pacific Ocean Since 2015, Paxton has been under a criminal indictment. He would have to temporarily step down from his position while he is tried in the State Senate. “There’s really no precedent — we’ve really only had two impeachments under the Constitution of 1876,” said a professor of political science at Rice University Mark P. Jones, reported New York Times. Also Read | Elon Musk's Neuralink cleared for human test of brain implants “Overturning elections begins behind closed doors,” Paxton tweeted earlier while sharing a video of his office lawyer who was seen arguing against his impeachment in conversation with media personnel at a committee room. It came when the committee was holding its deliberations over the impeachment. Past impeachments The impeachment, if goes forward, will be one of the few others that were conducted in the state’s history decades ago. They include the 1917 governor, who resigned the day before the Senate found him guilty, and the 1970s district judge who was found guilty and expelled. The committee convened in a private executive session before going for the vote. The committee filed 20 articles of impeachment against Paxton following the vote, accusing him of a long list of abuses including accepting bribes, failing to perform his official duties, obstructing justice in a separate securities fraud case that is pending against him, lying on official documents and reports, and abusing the public trust. Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle × The committee claimed that many of the accusations pertained to the different ways Paxton had allegedly exploited his authority to promote a specific donor and subsequently fired people in the office who objected to his behaviour. The chairman of the committee and a Republican Andrew Murr termed the abuses “grave offenses” and said that he is intending to bring the accusations against him up for a vote by the House. The extraordinary developments were likely to test the Republican Party in Texas in new and unpredictable ways, at a time when divisions in the party have increasingly been exposed. The development also comes at a time when divides inside Republican Party are becoming more apparent in Texas. Speaker Dade Phelan, a Republican representing Beaumont who is regarded as a conservative is in charge of the Texas House. In contrast, Paxton has sided with Texas' most adamant Republican lawmakers as well as former President Donald Trump. 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. ×

Texas Republican-led Panel files 20 articles of impeachment against state attorney general

<p>President Joe Biden has picked U.S. Air Force chief General Charles Q. Brown as the top U.S. military officer, the White House said on Wednesday, elevating a former fighter pilot with experience in the Pacific at a time of rising tension with China.</p>

<p>Brown, whose long-anticipated appointment is subject to Senate confirmation, would be only the second Black officer to become chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, after Colin Powell two decades ago.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/11-year-old-black-boy-shot-in-chest-by-mississippi-police-he-called-for-help-596673">11-year-old black boy shot in chest by Mississippi police he called for help</a></p>

<p>Biden's official schedule for Wednesday said: "In the afternoon, the president will announce his intent to nominate General Charles Q. Brown, Jr. to serve as the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff."</p>

<p>The move follows Biden's appointment of Lloyd Austin to become the first Black U.S. secretary of defense, the top civilian position at the Pentagon.</p>

<p>A senior Biden administration official said Biden had accepted Austin's recommendation to pick Brown for the position, believing he "understands the strategic challenges the United States faces around the world."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-his-loyalists-orchestrated-may-9-violence-intel-report-596659">Imran, his loyalists orchestrated May 9 violence: Intel report</a></p>

<p>"He helped build and lead the air campaign against ISIS. He is deeply versed in the challenges posed by the PRC (Peoples Republic of China). And he has a strong understanding of our NATO allies’ perspectives and capabilities," the official said.</p>

<p>Upon Brown's confirmation, Black Americans would hold the top two positions at the Pentagon for the first time - a major milestone for an institution that is diverse in its lower ranks but largely white and male at the top.</p>

<p>Brown is a self-described introvert whose public persona contrasts sharply with the outgoing chair, Army General Mark Milley, a loquacious Boston native whose tenure included both the Trump and Biden administrations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle</strong></p>

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<p>Last year, speaking at a security forum, Brown joked that his wife would ask: "Did you use all your words at work today?"</p>

<p>In the wake of the 2020 killing of George Floyd, a Black man, by Minneapolis police, Brown recounted his experiences in an emotional video posted online.</p>

<p>He said how, during his Air Force career, he was "often the only African American in my squadron or, as a senior officer, the only African American in the room" and of wearing the same flight suit as his squadron with wings pinned on his chest yet being asked if he was a pilot.</p>

<p>Known by colleagues as "CQ," Brown's experiences include overseeing coalition air operations against Islamic State from the Air Force's top base in the Middle East.</p>

<p>But it's his experiences as commander of the U.S. Air Force in the Pacific from 2018 to 2020 that gave him a primer on tensions with China's rapidly strengthening military, an issue likely to loom large over his four-year term as chair.</p>

<p>Heather Wilson, who was secretary of the Air Force at the time, praised Brown's leadership style and experience in the Pacific.</p>

<p>"He's thoughtful, respected by his peers and subordinates, and will provide steady leadership and good advice for the country," she told Reuters.</p>

<p>Although widely respected, it is unclear how quickly Brown would be confirmed by the Senate. Senator Tommy Tuberville has been blocking military nominations from moving forward since February because he believes the Pentagon is improperly using funding to cover travel costs for abortions of service members. The White House on Wednesday urged Tuberville to release his hold on Pentagon nominees, saying he is threatening national security.</p>

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President Joe Biden has picked U.S. Air Force chief General Charles Q. Brown as the top U.S. military officer, the White House said on Wednesday, elevating a former fighter pilot with experience in the Pacific at a time of rising tension with China.

President Joe Biden has picked U.S. Air Force chief General Charles Q. Brown as the top U.S. military officer, the White House said on Wednesday, elevating a former fighter pilot with experience in the Pacific at a time of rising tension with China. Brown, whose long-anticipated appointment is subject to Senate confirmation, would be only the second Black officer to become chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, after Colin Powell two decades ago. Also Read | 11-year-old black boy shot in chest by Mississippi police he called for help Biden's official schedule for Wednesday said: "In the afternoon, the president will announce his intent to nominate General Charles Q. Brown, Jr. to serve as the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff." The move follows Biden's appointment of Lloyd Austin to become the first Black U.S. secretary of defense, the top civilian position at the Pentagon. A senior Biden administration official said Biden had accepted Austin's recommendation to pick Brown for the position, believing he "understands the strategic challenges the United States faces around the world." Also Read | Imran, his loyalists orchestrated May 9 violence: Intel report "He helped build and lead the air campaign against ISIS. He is deeply versed in the challenges posed by the PRC (Peoples Republic of China). And he has a strong understanding of our NATO allies’ perspectives and capabilities," the official said. Upon Brown's confirmation, Black Americans would hold the top two positions at the Pentagon for the first time - a major milestone for an institution that is diverse in its lower ranks but largely white and male at the top. Brown is a self-described introvert whose public persona contrasts sharply with the outgoing chair, Army General Mark Milley, a loquacious Boston native whose tenure included both the Trump and Biden administrations. Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle × Last year, speaking at a security forum, Brown joked that his wife would ask: "Did you use all your words at work today?" In the wake of the 2020 killing of George Floyd, a Black man, by Minneapolis police, Brown recounted his experiences in an emotional video posted online. He said how, during his Air Force career, he was "often the only African American in my squadron or, as a senior officer, the only African American in the room" and of wearing the same flight suit as his squadron with wings pinned on his chest yet being asked if he was a pilot. Known by colleagues as "CQ," Brown's experiences include overseeing coalition air operations against Islamic State from the Air Force's top base in the Middle East. But it's his experiences as commander of the U.S. Air Force in the Pacific from 2018 to 2020 that gave him a primer on tensions with China's rapidly strengthening military, an issue likely to loom large over his four-year term as chair. Heather Wilson, who was secretary of the Air Force at the time, praised Brown's leadership style and experience in the Pacific. "He's thoughtful, respected by his peers and subordinates, and will provide steady leadership and good advice for the country," she told Reuters. Although widely respected, it is unclear how quickly Brown would be confirmed by the Senate. Senator Tommy Tuberville has been blocking military nominations from moving forward since February because he believes the Pentagon is improperly using funding to cover travel costs for abortions of service members. The White House on Wednesday urged Tuberville to release his hold on Pentagon nominees, saying he is threatening national security. 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. ×

Biden picks Air Force Chief General Charles Q. Brown to become top US general

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced his candidacy for the U.S presidential elections 2024. DeSantis made the announcement through a campaign video ahead of joining Twitter CEO Elon Musk on the social media platform. Originally the ex-navel officer was to announce his candidacy on the Twitter spaces however owing to an unprecedented traffic of people joining in, the social media platform crashed several times before he or Musk could even speak.

Elon Musk hosts Ron DeSantis' campaign launch on Twitter, site crashes due to traffic

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced his candidacy for the US Presidential Elections 2024. DeSantis made the announcement through a campaign video ahead of joining Twitter CEO Elon Musk on the social media platform. Originally, the ex-naval officer was to announce his candidacy on Twitter spaces. However, owing to an unprecedented traffic of people joining in, the social media platform crashed several times, before he or musk could even speak....more than two hundred and fifty thousand eager listeners joined the social media platform to listen to the trump's strongest challenger yet. Watch to know more in this guest interview with political Commentator Mark Meirowitz.

Ron DeSantis announces presidential bid for 2024

Ron DeSantis announces presidential bid for 2024 | Guest Interview

Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis will officially enter the 2024 US presidential race next week, according to two sources familiar with the decision, immediately becoming Donald Trump's biggest rival for the Republican nomination and shaking up a contest that largely has been one-sided.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to announce presidential campaign on Twitter space

<p>Joshua Matthew Black, a resident of Leeds, Alabama was sentenced to two years in prison on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 for storming the US Capitol with a knife on his hip.</p>

<p>Following the defeat of the then US president Donald Trump, a riot broke out on Jan 6, 2021. Black was the first rioter to breach a barricade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Black, an evangelical Christian, is believed to be motivated by his religious beliefs. As stated by Defence&nbsp;attorney Clark Fleckinger, Black believed God directed him to go to Washington so he could seek atonement for the transgressions of a corrupt Democratic and Republican Party.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;United States: Unseen videos of Capitol Riots attack televised</strong></p>

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<p>A police officer had shot Black in his left cheek with a crowd-control munition. However, that did not stop him from entering and occupying the Senate Chamber and rummaging through the office of Ted Cruz, the Texas senator.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After being shot in the face, Black was given medical attention by law enforcement. However, in his statements during the court proceedings, he maintained&nbsp;that they were trying to pull him ‘behind enemy lines’ while he constantly told them that “I’m with them. I’m here to defend the constitution. I’m a patriot.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/four-proud-boys-convicted-of-seditious-conspiracy-over-us-capitol-riot-589034"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;Four Proud Boys convicted of seditious conspiracy over US Capitol riot</strong></a></p>

<p>Rioters around Black became enraged after watching him getting shot in the face, which then led the others to harass and assault police officers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>An FBI search of Black’s house</strong></h2>

<p>A search of Black’s home carried out by the FBI on Jan. 14, 2021, resulted in the recovery of the knife that Black carried at the Capitol on Jan 6, 2021. Black was arrested later that day at a police station in Moody.</p>

<h2><strong>The Conviction</strong></h2>

<p>Black was convicted on the following five charges: entering and remaining in a restricted building with a dangerous weapon, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building with a dangerous weapon, unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon on Capitol grounds, entering and remaining on the floor of Congress and disorderly conduct in a Capitol building. Black was acquitted of obstructing a Congressional proceeding.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Black’s sentencing</strong></h2>

<p>Following the incidents of Jan 6, which shocked everyone, Prosecutors had asked for a five-year prison sentence for Black.&nbsp;<br />
Amy Berman Jackson, a US&nbsp;District Judge, later on, sentenced Black to 22 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sentencing of the Capitol rioters</strong></h2>

<p>Following the Capitol Hill attack, more than 1,000 people have been charged with riot-related crimes. Nearly 320 individuals have been charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. Around 500 individuals have been sentenced to imprisonment ranging from seven days to more than 14 years. The investigation is still ongoing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Joshua Matthew Black, a resident of Leeds, Alabama was sentenced to two years in prison on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 for storming the US Capitol with a knife on his hip.

Joshua Matthew Black, a resident of Leeds, Alabama was sentenced to two years in prison on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 for storming the US Capitol with a knife on his hip. Following the defeat of the then US president Donald Trump, a riot broke out on Jan 6, 2021. Black was the first rioter to breach a barricade. Black, an evangelical Christian, is believed to be motivated by his religious beliefs. As stated by Defence attorney Clark Fleckinger, Black believed God directed him to go to Washington so he could seek atonement for the transgressions of a corrupt Democratic and Republican Party. Watch: United States: Unseen videos of Capitol Riots attack televised × A police officer had shot Black in his left cheek with a crowd-control munition. However, that did not stop him from entering and occupying the Senate Chamber and rummaging through the office of Ted Cruz, the Texas senator. After being shot in the face, Black was given medical attention by law enforcement. However, in his statements during the court proceedings, he maintained that they were trying to pull him ‘behind enemy lines’ while he constantly told them that “I’m with them. I’m here to defend the constitution. I’m a patriot.” Also Read | Four Proud Boys convicted of seditious conspiracy over US Capitol riot Rioters around Black became enraged after watching him getting shot in the face, which then led the others to harass and assault police officers. An FBI search of Black’s house A search of Black’s home carried out by the FBI on Jan. 14, 2021, resulted in the recovery of the knife that Black carried at the Capitol on Jan 6, 2021. Black was arrested later that day at a police station in Moody. The Conviction Black was convicted on the following five charges: entering and remaining in a restricted building with a dangerous weapon, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building with a dangerous weapon, unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon on Capitol grounds, entering and remaining on the floor of Congress and disorderly conduct in a Capitol building. Black was acquitted of obstructing a Congressional proceeding. Black’s sentencing Following the incidents of Jan 6, which shocked everyone, Prosecutors had asked for a five-year prison sentence for Black. Amy Berman Jackson, a US District Judge, later on, sentenced Black to 22 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release. Sentencing of the Capitol rioters Following the Capitol Hill attack, more than 1,000 people have been charged with riot-related crimes. Nearly 320 individuals have been charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. Around 500 individuals have been sentenced to imprisonment ranging from seven days to more than 14 years. The investigation is still ongoing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

USA: Capitol Hill rioter Joshua Black, who was shot in face, sentenced to two years in prison

A report by US special counsel says FBI lacked actual evidence to probe Trump's 2016 presidential campaign & relied too heavily on tips provided by political opponents. The US prosecutor claims the probe into alleged collusion between Russia & Trump's 2016 campaign was based on flimsy evidence & had serious flaws. Trump's attorney general Bill Barr had appointed special counsel John Durham to address allegations.

'FBI lacked actual evidence': U.S. Prosecutor says Trump-Russia probe relied on opponents' tips

<p>Special counsel John Durham has issued his final report on the FBI's investigation into links between Donald Trump's campaign and Russia during the 2016 election. The report, which is almost 300 pages long, strongly criticises the FBI and the Justice Department but does not suggest fresh charges or "wholesale changes" in how politically sensitive investigations are handled.</p>

<p>“Based on the review of Crossfire Hurricane and related intelligence activities, we conclude that the (Justice) Department and FBI failed to uphold their important mission of strict fidelity to the law in connection with certain events and activities described in this report,” Durham wrote.</p>

<p>Despite not living up to the expectations of former President Trump and his allies, who expected the report to portray the inquiry as a political witch hunt, the study contains some key insights.</p>

<h2><strong>Durham questions&nbsp;FBI's haste&nbsp;to investigate Trump</strong></h2>

<p>As per&nbsp;the report, the special counsel's office conducted over 480 interviews, analysed over one million documents, and issued 190 grand jury subpoenas. Durham, on the other hand, has reservations about the FBI's decision to begin a comprehensive investigation, accusing the organisation of failing to honour its commitment to rigorous adherence to the law, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He claims that, while a preliminary inquiry was warranted, the FBI failed to take the essential measures, such as questioning pertinent witnesses or utilising established analytical methods.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: Durham Report Exposes Russia Hoax Against Trump<br />
<br />
In a shocking revelation, the three-year-long investigation led by special counsel John Durham has concluded that the FBI's comprehensive probe into the alleged connections between Donald Trump's campaign and Russia… <a href="https://t.co/vjLd8nsGao">pic.twitter.com/vjLd8nsGao</a></p>
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/1658201168072327169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>No "actual evidence of collusion"</strong></h2>

<p>Durham concludes that federal investigators had no "actual evidence of collusion" between Trump's campaign and Russia before beginning the years-long investigation. This discovery lies at the heart of his critique of the FBI's decision to begin a thorough investigation.</p>

<p>According to the report,&nbsp;if the FBI had taken extra procedures, such as analysing its intelligence databases or using conventional analytical methods, it would have discovered no evidence tying Trump to Russian officials.</p>

<h2><strong>FBI's personnel bias</strong></h2>

<p>The report states that certain investigative staff had a proclivity to initiate an inquiry into Trump. Durham singles out former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe and former counter-intelligence division deputy director Peter Strzok as being hostile to Trump, reported CNN.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Prosecutor faults FBI's Trump-Russia probe | Former NY mayor Rudy Giuliani sued</strong></p>

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<p>However, it should be emphasised that a prior assessment by DOJ Inspector General Michael Horowitz determined that Strzok and Lisa Page, an FBI attorney, did not initiate the probe due to political prejudice.</p>

<h2><strong>Different standards for&nbsp;Clinton and Trump</strong></h2>

<p>As per&nbsp;Durham's assessment, the FBI launched the "Crossfire Hurricane" investigation between Trump and Russia using raw, unanalysed, and uncorroborated intelligence. When there was concern about potential electoral involvement by Hillary Clinton's campaign, the FBI used different requirements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report states&nbsp;that the FBI never opened any inquiry or issued any taskings in response to the intelligence it received about a supposed&nbsp;Clinton campaign plan.</p>

<h2 data-component-name="subheader" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/subheader/instances/paragraph_13EA10B5-AC3C-04BB-36E5-20ED5A3F55A6@published" id="paragraph-13ea10b5-ac3c-04bb-36e5-20ed5a3f55a6"><strong>Steele dossier’s role</strong></h2>

<p>The report also criticises the Steele dossier, an explosive document that the FBI used to strengthen its case for probable cause in order to get surveillance warrants against a former Trump campaign aide.</p>

<p>The Steele dossier featured unproven charges about Trump's supposed financial relationships with Russia, rumours of salacious trysts in Moscow, and suspicions that his campaign colluded with the Kremlin in 2016.</p>

<p>Durham claims that the Crossfire Hurricane investigation "did not and could not corroborate any of the substantive allegations" in the infamous Steele dossier, which the FBI used to get a FISA warrant.</p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_84B936F6-4C18-7B91-B9CA-20ED50580888@published">“As noted, it was not until mid-September that the Crossfire Hurricane investigators received several of the Steele Reports. Within days of their receipt, the unvetted and unverified Steele Reports were sed to support probable cause in the FBI’s FISA applications targeting (Carter) Page, a U.S. citizen who, for a period of time, had been an advisor to Trump,” the report says.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_7DA1AEE8-8BB3-25D4-5BD3-20ED505B6361@published">“As discussed later in the report, this was done at a time when the FBI knew that the same information Steele had provided to the FBI had also been fed to the media and others in Washington, D.C,” it adds.</p>

<p>Durham's report is certain to fuel further discussion about Russia, Trump, the FBI, and the 2016 presidential election. House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan has asked Durham to testify, signalling that Trump's Republican supporters may try to exploit the findings to further their political goals.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-special-counsel-slams-fbi-probe-of-trump-russia-collusion-592760">Durham report criticises FBI's probe of Trump-Russia collusion in 2016 election</a></p>

<p>The report's impact may be mitigated by Durham's criminal record and past investigation of the occurrences by the Justice Department's inspector general.</p>

<p>Trump has already exploited the report's publication to claim vindication and to support his narrative of being the victim of a politically driven inquiry.</p>

<h2 data-editable="headlineText" id="maincontent"><strong>Who is John Durham?</strong></h2>

<p>The special counsel who headed the inquiry into alleged wrongdoing in the FBI's Trump-Russia investigation, John Durham, has made a career of pursuing high-profile public malfeasance, reported CNN.</p>

<p>Durham, 73, was appointed as special counsel by then-Attorney General William Barr in October 2020. He was previously the Justice Department's top prosecutor in Connecticut, a post he held from 2017 to 2021.</p>

<p>Even though Democrats denounced Barr's inquiry as politicised, he received bipartisan backing in 2019 when he was instructed by Barr to begin exploring whether intelligence and law enforcement broke the law in investigating the 2016 Trump presidential campaign.</p>

<p>Durham obtained his undergraduate degree from Colgate University and his law degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law. According to his official biography, he graduated with honours.</p>

<p>His first position was with VISTA, now known as AmeriCorps, where he served as a lawyer in Montana, providing legal services to members of the Crow Indian Tribe. His work there was primarily concerned with land use and natural resource concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Special counsel John Durham has issued his final report on the FBI's investigation into links between Donald Trump's campaign and Russia during the 2016 election.

Special counsel John Durham has issued his final report on the FBI's investigation into links between Donald Trump's campaign and Russia during the 2016 election. The report, which is almost 300 pages long, strongly criticises the FBI and the Justice Department but does not suggest fresh charges or "wholesale changes" in how politically sensitive investigations are handled. “Based on the review of Crossfire Hurricane and related intelligence activities, we conclude that the (Justice) Department and FBI failed to uphold their important mission of strict fidelity to the law in connection with certain events and activities described in this report,” Durham wrote. Despite not living up to the expectations of former President Trump and his allies, who expected the report to portray the inquiry as a political witch hunt, the study contains some key insights. Durham questions FBI's haste to investigate Trump As per the report, the special counsel's office conducted over 480 interviews, analysed over one million documents, and issued 190 grand jury subpoenas. Durham, on the other hand, has reservations about the FBI's decision to begin a comprehensive investigation, accusing the organisation of failing to honour its commitment to rigorous adherence to the law, reported the Associated Press. He claims that, while a preliminary inquiry was warranted, the FBI failed to take the essential measures, such as questioning pertinent witnesses or utilising established analytical methods. BREAKING: Durham Report Exposes Russia Hoax Against Trump In a shocking revelation, the three-year-long investigation led by special counsel John Durham has concluded that the FBI's comprehensive probe into the alleged connections between Donald Trump's campaign and Russia… pic.twitter.com/vjLd8nsGao — Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) May 15, 2023 × No "actual evidence of collusion" Durham concludes that federal investigators had no "actual evidence of collusion" between Trump's campaign and Russia before beginning the years-long investigation. This discovery lies at the heart of his critique of the FBI's decision to begin a thorough investigation. According to the report, if the FBI had taken extra procedures, such as analysing its intelligence databases or using conventional analytical methods, it would have discovered no evidence tying Trump to Russian officials. FBI's personnel bias The report states that certain investigative staff had a proclivity to initiate an inquiry into Trump. Durham singles out former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe and former counter-intelligence division deputy director Peter Strzok as being hostile to Trump, reported CNN. ALSO WATCH | Prosecutor faults FBI's Trump-Russia probe | Former NY mayor Rudy Giuliani sued However, it should be emphasised that a prior assessment by DOJ Inspector General Michael Horowitz determined that Strzok and Lisa Page, an FBI attorney, did not initiate the probe due to political prejudice. Different standards for Clinton and Trump As per Durham's assessment, the FBI launched the "Crossfire Hurricane" investigation between Trump and Russia using raw, unanalysed, and uncorroborated intelligence. When there was concern about potential electoral involvement by Hillary Clinton's campaign, the FBI used different requirements. The report states that the FBI never opened any inquiry or issued any taskings in response to the intelligence it received about a supposed Clinton campaign plan. Steele dossier’s role The report also criticises the Steele dossier, an explosive document that the FBI used to strengthen its case for probable cause in order to get surveillance warrants against a former Trump campaign aide. The Steele dossier featured unproven charges about Trump's supposed financial relationships with Russia, rumours of salacious trysts in Moscow, and suspicions that his campaign colluded with the Kremlin in 2016. Durham claims that the Crossfire Hurricane investigation "did not and could not corroborate any of the substantive allegations" in the infamous Steele dossier, which the FBI used to get a FISA warrant. “As noted, it was not until mid-September that the Crossfire Hurricane investigators received several of the Steele Reports. Within days of their receipt, the unvetted and unverified Steele Reports were sed to support probable cause in the FBI’s FISA applications targeting (Carter) Page, a U.S. citizen who, for a period of time, had been an advisor to Trump,” the report says. “As discussed later in the report, this was done at a time when the FBI knew that the same information Steele had provided to the FBI had also been fed to the media and others in Washington, D.C,” it adds. Durham's report is certain to fuel further discussion about Russia, Trump, the FBI, and the 2016 presidential election. House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan has asked Durham to testify, signalling that Trump's Republican supporters may try to exploit the findings to further their political goals. ALSO READ | Durham report criticises FBI's probe of Trump-Russia collusion in 2016 election The report's impact may be mitigated by Durham's criminal record and past investigation of the occurrences by the Justice Department's inspector general. Trump has already exploited the report's publication to claim vindication and to support his narrative of being the victim of a politically driven inquiry. Who is John Durham? The special counsel who headed the inquiry into alleged wrongdoing in the FBI's Trump-Russia investigation, John Durham, has made a career of pursuing high-profile public malfeasance, reported CNN. Durham, 73, was appointed as special counsel by then-Attorney General William Barr in October 2020. He was previously the Justice Department's top prosecutor in Connecticut, a post he held from 2017 to 2021. Even though Democrats denounced Barr's inquiry as politicised, he received bipartisan backing in 2019 when he was instructed by Barr to begin exploring whether intelligence and law enforcement broke the law in investigating the 2016 Trump presidential campaign. Durham obtained his undergraduate degree from Colgate University and his law degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law. According to his official biography, he graduated with honours. His first position was with VISTA, now known as AmeriCorps, where he served as a lawyer in Montana, providing legal services to members of the Crow Indian Tribe. His work there was primarily concerned with land use and natural resource concerns. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | Durham report: Key takeaways from the Trump-Russia investigation

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: A report by US special counsel says FBI lacked actual evidence to probe Trump's 2016 presidential campaign & relied too heavily on tips provided by political opponents.

US special counsel slams FBI probe of Trump-Russia collusion

Prosecutor faults FBI's Trump-Russia probe | Former NY mayor Rudy Giuliani sued

A New York jury found Trump liable for sexually abusing & defaming a former magazine columnist & ordered the ex-president to pay her $5 million in damages. Jean Carroll's accusation of rape but upheld her other complaints in the closely watched civil trial. The former U.S. President immediately rejected the verdict as a disgrace. 79-year-old Carroll sued Trump last year, alleging that he raped her in the changing room of the luxury bergdorf goodman store on Manhattan's fifth avenue in 1996. Her lawyers called to the witness stand two other women who testified that Trump sexually assaulted them decades ago. Former businesswoman Jessica Leeds said that Trump groped her in the business class section of a flight in the united states in the 1970s. Journalist Natasha Stoynoff said Trump kissed her without her consent during an interview at his mar-a-lago estate in 2005. No criminal case can stem from Carroll's lawsuit.

Trump sexually abused writer E. Jean Carroll, must pay her $5 million, jury says

<p>A majority, or 63 per cent of Americans, surveyed in a new poll say US President Joe Biden does not have the mental sharpness to serve effectively in second term while 54 per cent say Donald Trump is sufficiently sharp mentally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is a new low for Biden as earlier in 2020, 43 per cent believed Biden does not have the mental capability to be a president. A year ago, it was 54 per cent who believed the same.</p>

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<p>This came in a random nationwide survey of 1,006 US adults for the Washington Post-ABC News poll from April 28 to May 3. It shows how US President Joe Biden faces significant obstacles as his reelection campaign gets underway.</p>

<p>As many as 62 per cent of Americans say&nbsp;the 80-years-old Biden is not in good enough physical health to be effective as a president.&nbsp;In contrast, 64 per cent of Americans say former US president Donald Trump is physically fit enough to serve. It is pertinent to note that Trump would turn 78 in January 2025 at the time of the next inauguration.</p>

<p>Biden's overall ratings is currently at 36%, down from 42% in February and almost equal to the previous low of 37% in an early 2022 Post-ABC survey. 56 per cent of people disapprove of him, including 47 per cent who do so "strongly."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Americans believe that Trump handled the economy better while he was president than Biden has thus far, according to a poll, by a margin of 54 per cent to 36 per cent.</p>

<p>On the subject of honesty and reliability, neither Biden nor Trump are seen favourably, but Trump is viewed more unfavourably because to his frequent fabrications that the 2020 election was rigged and therefore stolen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, just 33 per cent of people believe that Donald Trump is trustworthy and honest, while 63 per cent&nbsp;disagree. Comparatively, 41 per cent of respondents believe that Biden is trustworthy and honest, while 54 per cent disagree.</p>

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<p>When asked who respondents would pick for president in 2024, Biden is behind Trump. A 44 per cent of voting-age individuals say they would "definitely" or "probably" back Trump in 2024, while 38 per cent say they would "definitely" or "probably" favour Biden.&nbsp;The remaining 18% either provided a different response or are unsure.</p>

<p>Today, 42 per cent of Republican voters say they would definitely or probably support Florida Governor Ron DeSantis if he were the party's nominee, compared to 37 per cent who would support Joe Biden and 21 per cent who are unsure or have chosen another candidate.</p>

<p>Republicans and Democrats continue to be sharply divided about who will be president in 2024; 88 per cent of Republicans say they would definitely or probably vote for Trump, while 83 per cent of Democrats say they will choose Biden.</p>

<p>Trump is leading among White voters, but Biden is ahead among non-White voters. White males without college degrees perform best (60%) for Trump, while White women without college degrees perform second-best (56%) for him. When it comes to White women with college degrees, Biden does best (at 50%). He and Trump have about equal support among White males with college degrees (41 per cent to 43 per cent).</p>

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A majority, or 63 per cent of Americans, surveyed in a new poll say US President Joe Biden does not have the mental sharpness to serve effectively in second term while 54 per cent say Donald Trump is sufficiently sharp mentally.

A majority, or 63 per cent of Americans, surveyed in a new poll say US President Joe Biden does not have the mental sharpness to serve effectively in second term while 54 per cent say Donald Trump is sufficiently sharp mentally. This is a new low for Biden as earlier in 2020, 43 per cent believed Biden does not have the mental capability to be a president. A year ago, it was 54 per cent who believed the same. Also Read | French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how This came in a random nationwide survey of 1,006 US adults for the Washington Post-ABC News poll from April 28 to May 3. It shows how US President Joe Biden faces significant obstacles as his reelection campaign gets underway. As many as 62 per cent of Americans say the 80-years-old Biden is not in good enough physical health to be effective as a president. In contrast, 64 per cent of Americans say former US president Donald Trump is physically fit enough to serve. It is pertinent to note that Trump would turn 78 in January 2025 at the time of the next inauguration. Biden's overall ratings is currently at 36%, down from 42% in February and almost equal to the previous low of 37% in an early 2022 Post-ABC survey. 56 per cent of people disapprove of him, including 47 per cent who do so "strongly." Also Read | Japanese PM ‘sympathises’ with Korea’s colonial victims, stops short of offering apology Americans believe that Trump handled the economy better while he was president than Biden has thus far, according to a poll, by a margin of 54 per cent to 36 per cent. On the subject of honesty and reliability, neither Biden nor Trump are seen favourably, but Trump is viewed more unfavourably because to his frequent fabrications that the 2020 election was rigged and therefore stolen. Currently, just 33 per cent of people believe that Donald Trump is trustworthy and honest, while 63 per cent disagree. Comparatively, 41 per cent of respondents believe that Biden is trustworthy and honest, while 54 per cent disagree. Watch | India: 'Vegan leather' developed by Central Leather Research Institute | Sustainable Fashion × When asked who respondents would pick for president in 2024, Biden is behind Trump. A 44 per cent of voting-age individuals say they would "definitely" or "probably" back Trump in 2024, while 38 per cent say they would "definitely" or "probably" favour Biden. The remaining 18% either provided a different response or are unsure. Today, 42 per cent of Republican voters say they would definitely or probably support Florida Governor Ron DeSantis if he were the party's nominee, compared to 37 per cent who would support Joe Biden and 21 per cent who are unsure or have chosen another candidate. Republicans and Democrats continue to be sharply divided about who will be president in 2024; 88 per cent of Republicans say they would definitely or probably vote for Trump, while 83 per cent of Democrats say they will choose Biden. Trump is leading among White voters, but Biden is ahead among non-White voters. White males without college degrees perform best (60%) for Trump, while White women without college degrees perform second-best (56%) for him. When it comes to White women with college degrees, Biden does best (at 50%). He and Trump have about equal support among White males with college degrees (41 per cent to 43 per cent). 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.

Biden does not have mental sharpness to serve as president in second term: 63% Americans in poll

President Joe Biden's support has reached an all-time low as his re-election campaign has officially begun. According to a poll in a Gallup survey, it was discovered that only 37% of American adults approved of Biden's job performance as president, which is the lowest approval rating since July 2022 when only 38% said they did. Adults as a whole disliked, according to a staggering 59%.

Joe Biden's approval rating hits all-time low amid re-election campaign launch: Poll

<p>Jair Bolsonaro, the former president of Brazil, appeared before federal police on Wednesday and categorically denied any role in the anti-government Jan 6-style riots in&nbsp;the Brazilian capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On 8 January, a week after Brazilian president Lula da Silva took office, thousands of Bolsonaro supporters attacked Congress, the Supreme Court, and the presidential palace in Brasilia.</p>

<p>An inquiry into Bolsonaro's suspected involvement in the January 8 rampage was launched on 13 January by Supreme Court justice Alexandre de Moraes. During the riots, protesters breached the security perimeter and stormed the government buildings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Investigations are being conducted on the far-right Bolsonaro's suspected involvement in organising the riots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="Also Read | Argentina moves away from US dollar for trade in Chinese currency">Argentina moves away from US dollar for trade in Chinese currency</a></p>

<p>After spending three months in the US state of Florida, Bolsonaro returned to Brazil in late March.</p>

<p>He was interrogated for more than two hours at the federal police headquarters in Brasilia before leaving in a car with tinted windows. He left without speaking to the media personnel present there.</p>

<p>However, according to Bolsonaro's spokesperson Fabio Wajngarten, who spoke to the media shortly after, former president Bolsonaro "repudiated all the unfortunate events that happened in Brasilia" on the day of the violence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the reasons the probe was started was because Bolsonaro posted a video to social media two days after the riot. In the video, a prosecutor questioned the legitimacy of Lula's win.</p>

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<p>According to Bolsonaro's attorney Paulo Bueno, the president had just been brought to the hospital and was on medication at the time he released the video. "The sharing was so accidental that he did not mention it afterwards and soon deleted it," said Bueno after the hearing.</p>

<p>In a contentious election in October, Lula, who previously served as president of Brazil from 2003 to 2010, narrowly secured victory over Bolsonaro.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Gemini Sankaran, pioneer of Indian Circus dies at age of 99 in Kerala's Kannur</strong></p>

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<p>The riots were similar to 6 January, 2021 riots that took place in Washington and was spearheaded by Bolsonaro's political hero, former President Donald Trump's supporters.</p>

<p>On 8 January, Bolsonaro's supporters vandalised artwork, offices, and shattered windows while demanding that the military step in to remove Lula. Nearly 1,800 people have been arrested so far, as per the AFP news agency.</p>

<p>To shed light on the events of January 8, Congress will establish a legislative committee of investigation.</p>

<p>But the riots are not controversy Bolsonaro is surrounded with. Police earlier questioned former army captain Bolsonaro on 5 April in connection with a charge that he attempted to unlawfully import jewellery given to him by Saudi Arabia worth millions of dollars. According to a source close to the former president, he disputed the charge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bolsonaro is the focus of at least 16 investigations. If he is found guilty, he may get a prison term or lose his right to run for office.</p>

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Jair Bolsonaro, the former president of Brazil, appeared before federal police on Wednesday and categorically denied any role in the anti-government Jan 6-style riots in the Brazilian capital.

Jair Bolsonaro, the former president of Brazil, appeared before federal police on Wednesday and categorically denied any role in the anti-government Jan 6-style riots in the Brazilian capital. On 8 January, a week after Brazilian president Lula da Silva took office, thousands of Bolsonaro supporters attacked Congress, the Supreme Court, and the presidential palace in Brasilia. An inquiry into Bolsonaro's suspected involvement in the January 8 rampage was launched on 13 January by Supreme Court justice Alexandre de Moraes. During the riots, protesters breached the security perimeter and stormed the government buildings. Investigations are being conducted on the far-right Bolsonaro's suspected involvement in organising the riots. Also Read | Argentina moves away from US dollar for trade in Chinese currency After spending three months in the US state of Florida, Bolsonaro returned to Brazil in late March. He was interrogated for more than two hours at the federal police headquarters in Brasilia before leaving in a car with tinted windows. He left without speaking to the media personnel present there. However, according to Bolsonaro's spokesperson Fabio Wajngarten, who spoke to the media shortly after, former president Bolsonaro "repudiated all the unfortunate events that happened in Brasilia" on the day of the violence. One of the reasons the probe was started was because Bolsonaro posted a video to social media two days after the riot. In the video, a prosecutor questioned the legitimacy of Lula's win. Also Read | Singapore doubles stamp duty for foreigners buying home According to Bolsonaro's attorney Paulo Bueno, the president had just been brought to the hospital and was on medication at the time he released the video. "The sharing was so accidental that he did not mention it afterwards and soon deleted it," said Bueno after the hearing. In a contentious election in October, Lula, who previously served as president of Brazil from 2003 to 2010, narrowly secured victory over Bolsonaro. Watch | Gemini Sankaran, pioneer of Indian Circus dies at age of 99 in Kerala's Kannur × The riots were similar to 6 January, 2021 riots that took place in Washington and was spearheaded by Bolsonaro's political hero, former President Donald Trump's supporters. On 8 January, Bolsonaro's supporters vandalised artwork, offices, and shattered windows while demanding that the military step in to remove Lula. Nearly 1,800 people have been arrested so far, as per the AFP news agency. To shed light on the events of January 8, Congress will establish a legislative committee of investigation. But the riots are not controversy Bolsonaro is surrounded with. Police earlier questioned former army captain Bolsonaro on 5 April in connection with a charge that he attempted to unlawfully import jewellery given to him by Saudi Arabia worth millions of dollars. According to a source close to the former president, he disputed the charge. Bolsonaro is the focus of at least 16 investigations. If he is found guilty, he may get a prison term or lose his right to run for office. 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.

'Trump of the Tropics' Bolsonaro denies role in Jan 6-style attack on Brazilian capital

A writer told a US civil trial Wednesday that an alleged sexual assault by Donald Trump three decades ago left her feeling “ashamed" and unable to have romantic relationships. “I’m here because Donald Trump raped me," E. Jean Carroll said in Manhattan’s federal court, which is hearing a defamation and battery lawsuit against the former president.

'Donald Trump Raped Me': US writer testifies before court in Lawsuit trial

US President Joe Biden has finally announced his re-election bid. The 80-year-old, who is the oldest President in US history, had long signaled that he would announce his re-election bid for 2024. He would be 86 if he completes the second term by 2029.

US: Joe Biden redefining old age at 80 as he runs again for Presidential elections 2024?

Former President Donald Trump is facing a civil trial over an allegation that he raped an advice columnist nearly three decades ago. Watch the video to know more.

Donald Trump’s civil rape case: Ex president to pay damage if found guilty

<p>Two men employed by the legal team of former US president Donald Trump discussed via text message whether to use a compromised voting machine in a remote Georgia county in 2021 to decertify the state's upcoming Senate runoff results.</p>

<p>Two persons entered an election office in Coffee County, Georgia on January 7, 2021, the day after rioters seized the US Capitol. Coffee County is a rural area of the state that largely supported Trump in the presidential election of 2020. They transferred sensitive voting data onto a portable hard disc with the aid of a local election official.</p>

<p>The texts, which were sent two weeks after operatives broke into a voting machine in Coffee County, Georgia, reveal for the first time that Trump supporters thought about using voting data in an effort to maintain a Republican majority in the US Senate as well as to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.</p>

<p>The two men are former NSA official Jim Penrose and CEO of Cyber Ninjas&nbsp;Doug Logan.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>While Penrose was working with Trump lawyer Sidney Powell to access voting machines in Georgia, Logan's firm purports to run audits of voting systems. Penrose in a text on 19 January wrote to Logan,&nbsp;“Here’s the plan. Let’s keep this close hold."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the text, Penrose references to the upcoming certification of Democrat Jon Ossoff’s win over Republican David Perdue. “We only have until Saturday to decide if we are going to use this report to try to decertify the Senate run-off election or if we hold it for a bigger moment,” Penrose wrote.</p>

<p>The attempt to hack voting machines in Coffee County, which was coordinated by Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell of Trump's legal team, is part of a larger criminal investigation into intervention in the 2020 election being conducted by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.</p>

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<p>Sources told CNN that Willis' office is considering whether to file charges in a potential racketeering case involving several defendants. The two persons who committed the Coffee County breach and were in contact with Penrose and Logan are among the people Willis has subpoenaed.</p>

<p>As part of her investigation, Willis has also subpoenaed Giuliani and Powell. According to the jury foreperson, the special grand jury assembled for the case recommended issuing several indictments in its final report, which was finished in February.</p>

<p>Penrose and Powell also agreed to pay a cyber forensics company before it deployed a team to Coffee County on 7 January, 2021, according to emails acquired by CNN.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Oliver Dowden named UK deputy pm after Dominic Raab's resignation</strong></p>

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<p>The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is also looking into the Coffee County breach.</p>

<p>As part of his federal investigation into attempts to rig the 2020 election and the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, Special Counsel Jack Smith also appears to be looking into the larger effort to hack or seize polling equipment. It is unknown if he is in possession of any evidence pertaining to the Coffee County breach.</p>

<p>According to access records examined by CNN and evidence made public on January 6 by the committee, the breached data was subsequently uploaded to an encrypted server and shared with a number of Trump supporters.&nbsp;</p>

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Two men employed by the legal team of former US president Donald Trump discussed via text message whether to use a compromised voting machine in a remote Georgia county in 2021 to decertify the state's upcoming Senate runoff results.

Two men employed by the legal team of former US president Donald Trump discussed via text message whether to use a compromised voting machine in a remote Georgia county in 2021 to decertify the state's upcoming Senate runoff results. Two persons entered an election office in Coffee County, Georgia on January 7, 2021, the day after rioters seized the US Capitol. Coffee County is a rural area of the state that largely supported Trump in the presidential election of 2020. They transferred sensitive voting data onto a portable hard disc with the aid of a local election official. The texts, which were sent two weeks after operatives broke into a voting machine in Coffee County, Georgia, reveal for the first time that Trump supporters thought about using voting data in an effort to maintain a Republican majority in the US Senate as well as to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. The two men are former NSA official Jim Penrose and CEO of Cyber Ninjas Doug Logan. Also Read | Jack Dorsey's Twitter alternative Bluesky makes debut on Android While Penrose was working with Trump lawyer Sidney Powell to access voting machines in Georgia, Logan's firm purports to run audits of voting systems. Penrose in a text on 19 January wrote to Logan, “Here’s the plan. Let’s keep this close hold." In the text, Penrose references to the upcoming certification of Democrat Jon Ossoff’s win over Republican David Perdue. “We only have until Saturday to decide if we are going to use this report to try to decertify the Senate run-off election or if we hold it for a bigger moment,” Penrose wrote. The attempt to hack voting machines in Coffee County, which was coordinated by Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell of Trump's legal team, is part of a larger criminal investigation into intervention in the 2020 election being conducted by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. Also Read | Tesla secures big win in crash case, court says autopilot feature did not fail Sources told CNN that Willis' office is considering whether to file charges in a potential racketeering case involving several defendants. The two persons who committed the Coffee County breach and were in contact with Penrose and Logan are among the people Willis has subpoenaed. As part of her investigation, Willis has also subpoenaed Giuliani and Powell. According to the jury foreperson, the special grand jury assembled for the case recommended issuing several indictments in its final report, which was finished in February. Penrose and Powell also agreed to pay a cyber forensics company before it deployed a team to Coffee County on 7 January, 2021, according to emails acquired by CNN. Watch | Oliver Dowden named UK deputy pm after Dominic Raab's resignation × The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is also looking into the Coffee County breach. As part of his federal investigation into attempts to rig the 2020 election and the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, Special Counsel Jack Smith also appears to be looking into the larger effort to hack or seize polling equipment. It is unknown if he is in possession of any evidence pertaining to the Coffee County breach. According to access records examined by CNN and evidence made public on January 6 by the committee, the breached data was subsequently uploaded to an encrypted server and shared with a number of Trump supporters. 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.

Trump’s team considered overturning Georgia Senate race using breached voting data

<p>A man charged with participation in the January 6 storming of Capitol Hill opened fire on cops sent to check on him. As per a news release by the US Department of Justice, on April 12th, the man, Nathan Donald Pelham, 40, of Greenville, Texas allegedly "fired several shots towards law enforcement days before his first court appearance" and has now been also charged with a federal firearm crime.</p>

<p>He has been charged with a criminal complaint for being a felon in possession of a firearm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fresh charge comes just days after he was on April 11 charged with four misdemeanour counts stemming from his alleged participation in the January 6th breach of the US Capitol building.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-former-aides-ordered-to-testify-in-capitol-riots-probe-575452">US: Court orders Donald Trump’s former aides to testify before jury in Capitol riots case</a></strong></p>

<p>If found guilty, he could be sentenced up to 15 years in federal prison for the felony gun charge and three years for the misdemeanour charges.</p>

<p>He was given until April 17th to surrender. Soon after, as per Raw Story, a relative of Pelham called the police with information about a gun in the felon's possession.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-leaves-a-mess-behind-texans-try-to-deal-with-fallout-of-failed-spacex-rocket-starship-584843">Musk leaves a mess...Texans try to deal with 'fallout' of failed SpaceX rocket Starship</a></strong></p>

<p>When police conducted a welfare check, Pelham shot at them. Reportedly, the standoff between Pelham and the police lasted for nearly three hours.</p>

<p>"At approximately 9:38 p.m., Mr. Pelham – a previously convicted felon – walked onto the porch and allegedly fired towards several deputies, who could be heard on body-worn camera video noting bullets ‘whiz’ by them," said the DOJ in a statement published on its website.</p>

<p>"A deputy instructed Mr. Pelham to put his gun down, but he continued to wave it until re-entering his home. At 10:46 pm, Mr. Pelham again exited the residence and fired multiple rounds."</p>

<p>No one was injured in the standoff. A later search of the Pelham residence revealed "a Smith &amp; Wesson 9mm pistol and four boxes of ammunition, as well as several 9mm sized holes in the walls."&nbsp;On Wednesday, April 19 the felon made his initial appearance before US Magistrate Judge Toliver. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A man charged with participation in the January 6 storming of Capitol Hill opened fire on cops sent to check on him. As per a news release by the US Department of Justice, on April 12th, the man, Nathan Donald Pelham, 40, of Greenville, Texas allegedly "fired several shots towards law enforcement days before his first court appearance" and has now been also charged with a federal firearm crime.

A man charged with participation in the January 6 storming of Capitol Hill opened fire on cops sent to check on him. As per a news release by the US Department of Justice, on April 12th, the man, Nathan Donald Pelham, 40, of Greenville, Texas allegedly "fired several shots towards law enforcement days before his first court appearance" and has now been also charged with a federal firearm crime. He has been charged with a criminal complaint for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The fresh charge comes just days after he was on April 11 charged with four misdemeanour counts stemming from his alleged participation in the January 6th breach of the US Capitol building. Also read | US: Court orders Donald Trump’s former aides to testify before jury in Capitol riots case If found guilty, he could be sentenced up to 15 years in federal prison for the felony gun charge and three years for the misdemeanour charges. He was given until April 17th to surrender. Soon after, as per Raw Story, a relative of Pelham called the police with information about a gun in the felon's possession. Also read | Musk leaves a mess...Texans try to deal with 'fallout' of failed SpaceX rocket Starship When police conducted a welfare check, Pelham shot at them. Reportedly, the standoff between Pelham and the police lasted for nearly three hours. "At approximately 9:38 p.m., Mr. Pelham – a previously convicted felon – walked onto the porch and allegedly fired towards several deputies, who could be heard on body-worn camera video noting bullets ‘whiz’ by them," said the DOJ in a statement published on its website. "A deputy instructed Mr. Pelham to put his gun down, but he continued to wave it until re-entering his home. At 10:46 pm, Mr. Pelham again exited the residence and fired multiple rounds." No one was injured in the standoff. A later search of the Pelham residence revealed "a Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol and four boxes of ammunition, as well as several 9mm sized holes in the walls." On Wednesday, April 19 the felon made his initial appearance before US Magistrate Judge Toliver. (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.

Man charged with participation in Capitol hill riot opens fire at police; faces up to 18 years in jail

Former President Donald Trump answered questions for nearly seven hours today during his second deposition in a legal battle with New York's attorney general over his company's business practices, reversing an earlier decision to invoke his Fifth Amendment protection against self-incrimination and remain silent.

Former US President Donald Trump grilled for 7 hours in New York fraud lawsuit

<p>With hopes pinned on the 2024 presidential elections, former US president Donald Trump in an interview to a media outlet said that he would not drop out of the race regardless of any legal reason.&nbsp;Trump is facing a possible conviction in a case involving hush-money payments made to adult star Stormy Daniels. &nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked if there was anything, including a potential conviction, that could make him drop out, Trump said, “No, I’d never drop — it’s not my thing. I wouldn’t do it."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-of-pablo-escobars-cocaine-hippo-gets-struck-by-car-dies-582278">One of Pablo Escobar's ‘cocaine hippo’ gets struck by car, dies</a></p>

<p>Trump was charged with 34 counts of&nbsp;felony&nbsp;and was arraigned for concealing an alleged affair with Stormy. However, Trump has categorically denied having an affair. He also&nbsp;blasted at&nbsp;Manhattan District Attorney&nbsp;Alvin Bragg's probe into the matter&nbsp;and termed it politically motivated.</p>

<p>Trump was also questioned on Thursday in a civil fraud case filed by New York's Attorney General Letitia James last year which claims that Trump, along with his family misled banks and business partners by providing them misleading information.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the deposition, which was held privately, reports quoting sources familiar with the proceedings said Trump answered all questions for about seven hours. He also did not invoke Fifth Amendment protection against self-incrimination.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the past, Trump invoked the Fifth for over 400 times and refused to answer questions before lawyers from James' office in its probe into the Trump's business practices.&nbsp;The Fifth Amendment in US Constitution includes legal proceedings, including one that says no one “shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself”.</p>

<p>The case is said to go to trial later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thailand-celebrates-songkran-water-festival-582292">Thailand celebrates Songkran Water Festival</a></p>

<p>After the deposition concluded, a lawyer for Trump’s businesses, Christopher Kise reportedly said Trump during his deposition explained in detail his "extraordinary business success.”</p>

<p>“The transactions at the center of this case were wildly profitable for the banks and for the Trump entities,” Kise said. “When the facts of this success, and not politically engineered soundbites, are out in the open, everyone will scoff at the notion any fraud took place.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Joe Biden addresses Irish parliament, says he 'feels at home'</strong></p>

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<p>The case is different&nbsp;from&nbsp;the felony charges that the Manhattan district attorney brought against Trump which resulted in his arraignment, a&nbsp;first against&nbsp;a former/serving president.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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With hopes pinned on the 2024 presidential elections, former US president Donald Trump in an interview to a media outlet said that he would not drop out of the race regardless of any legal reason.

With hopes pinned on the 2024 presidential elections, former US president Donald Trump in an interview to a media outlet said that he would not drop out of the race regardless of any legal reason. Trump is facing a possible conviction in a case involving hush-money payments made to adult star Stormy Daniels. When asked if there was anything, including a potential conviction, that could make him drop out, Trump said, “No, I’d never drop — it’s not my thing. I wouldn’t do it." Also Read | One of Pablo Escobar's ‘cocaine hippo’ gets struck by car, dies Trump was charged with 34 counts of felony and was arraigned for concealing an alleged affair with Stormy. However, Trump has categorically denied having an affair. He also blasted at Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's probe into the matter and termed it politically motivated. Trump was also questioned on Thursday in a civil fraud case filed by New York's Attorney General Letitia James last year which claims that Trump, along with his family misled banks and business partners by providing them misleading information. During the deposition, which was held privately, reports quoting sources familiar with the proceedings said Trump answered all questions for about seven hours. He also did not invoke Fifth Amendment protection against self-incrimination. In the past, Trump invoked the Fifth for over 400 times and refused to answer questions before lawyers from James' office in its probe into the Trump's business practices. The Fifth Amendment in US Constitution includes legal proceedings, including one that says no one “shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself”. The case is said to go to trial later this year. Also Read | Thailand celebrates Songkran Water Festival After the deposition concluded, a lawyer for Trump’s businesses, Christopher Kise reportedly said Trump during his deposition explained in detail his "extraordinary business success.” “The transactions at the center of this case were wildly profitable for the banks and for the Trump entities,” Kise said. “When the facts of this success, and not politically engineered soundbites, are out in the open, everyone will scoff at the notion any fraud took place.” Watch | Joe Biden addresses Irish parliament, says he 'feels at home' × The case is different from the felony charges that the Manhattan district attorney brought against Trump which resulted in his arraignment, a first against a former/serving president. (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.

'It’s not my thing': Trump on dropping out of 2024 US presidential elections, if convicted

The indictment and other ongoing criminal investigations of Donald Trump raise the real — if still remote — prospect that a leading contender for the 2024 presidential nomination could face prison time.

Explained: Can Trump run for president from prison?

Former President Donald Trump was back in New York on Thursday for questioning in a $250 million civil fraud lawsuit against him by the state's attorney general.

Trump back in New York for questioning in state civil fraud case

James filed the civil fraud lawsuit last September against Trump, three of his adult children, the Trump Organization and others. The suit accuses Trump of repeatedly overstating the values of his assets in statements to banks, insurance companies and the IRS in order to obtain better loan and tax terms.

Trump faces deposition in New York AG Letitia James' fraud lawsuit

Donald Trump filed a lawsuit against Michael Cohen, his former personal attorney who is expected to be a key witness in the criminal case the former US president is currently facing in New York. Cohen is being sued for $500 million in a US District Court in Florida for allegedly violating attorney-client privileges and a confidentiality agreement. The grand jury that finally indicted Trump heard testimony from witnesses including Cohen, making him the first US president, past or present, to be charged with a crime.

Donald Trump sues his former lawyer Michael Cohen for $500 million

Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg has sued Republican US representative Jim Jordan in a bid to stop what Brad calls an unconstitutional attack on the ongoing criminal prosecution of former US president Donald Trump.

Trump prosecutor sues Republican Jim Jordan over 'interfering' in case

Trump prosecutor sues Republican Jim Jordan, accuses him of unconstitutional attack

<p>Former US president Donald Trump, who is eyeing 2024 presidential elections, recently instructed his aides to employ Laura Loomer, an anti-Muslim activist, for a campaign position, reported New York Times citing four sources familiar with the plans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a history of espousing racist views, Loomer, a far-right, is known for her controversial statements. She has made anti-Muslim rhetoric and held protests against social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook for banning her accounts for spreading hate speech and conspiracy theories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-korea-natural-partners-held-substantive-talks-with-eam-south-korean-foreign-minister-park-jin-to-wion-580323">India, Korea natural partners, held substantive talks with Jaishankar: South Korean FM Park Jin to WION</a></p>

<p>Loomer went to Trump's resort home at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida on Tuesday following his arraignment in Manhattan. Given her history of&nbsp;outbursts and her support of the Republican Party's fringes, some of Trump's advisers are reportedly worried of such a selection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Appearing to be doing damage-control for Trump's bid for the presidential race next year, several of his most outspoken conservative supporters said Loomer will no longer be hired.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-university-of-oklahoma-investigates-reports-of-active-shooter-possible-shots-fired-on-campus-580308">Police issue 'ALL CLEAR' after reports of active shooter at University of Oklahoma, calls off alert</a></p>

<p>Speaking with a&nbsp;media portal on Friday, Loomer said, “Out of respect for president Trump, I’m not going to comment on private conversations that I had with the president.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The president knows I have always been a Trump loyalist,” she said adding, “I’m committed to helping him win re-election in 2024. He likes me very much. And it’s a shame that he’s surrounded by some people that run to a publication that is notorious for attacking him in order to try to cut me at the knees instead of being loyal to president Trump and respecting their confidentiality agreements.”</p>

<p>As part of his 2016 campaign, Trump gave fuel to anti-Muslim prejudice. As president, he restricted travel from numerous countries with large Muslim population. He previously backed Loomer's bid for Florida's congressional seat in 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan: National Security Committee to launch new military operation against militants</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Laura Loomer controversies</strong></p>

<p>Loomer&nbsp;campaigned unsuccessfully for Congress on two occasions. She once&nbsp;tweeted hashtag "#proudislamophobe" and has referred to Islam as a "cancer". She even&nbsp;celebrated&nbsp;the deaths of migrants&nbsp;trying to cross the Mediterranean.</p>

<p>She was banned from Twitter in 2018 citing&nbsp;policy breach by hate speech. A&nbsp;Jewish politician, Loomer, chained herself to the gate to Twitter's New York offices and sewed a yellow Star of David to her clothing in retaliation for the ban.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Comments against Ron DeSantis, wife Casey&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Loomer released videos on social media criticising Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. DeSantis is a prospective contender for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>DeSantis and his wife Casey, who survived breast cancer, have been charged by Loomer of trying to play the 'cancer survivor' card "to make people think they are untouchable from criticism."<br />
<br />
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Former US president Donald Trump, who is eyeing 2024 presidential elections, recently instructed his aides to employ Laura Loomer, an anti-Muslim activist, for a campaign position, reported New York Times citing four sources familiar with the plans.

Former US president Donald Trump, who is eyeing 2024 presidential elections, recently instructed his aides to employ Laura Loomer, an anti-Muslim activist, for a campaign position, reported New York Times citing four sources familiar with the plans. With a history of espousing racist views, Loomer, a far-right, is known for her controversial statements. She has made anti-Muslim rhetoric and held protests against social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook for banning her accounts for spreading hate speech and conspiracy theories. Also Read | India, Korea natural partners, held substantive talks with Jaishankar: South Korean FM Park Jin to WION Loomer went to Trump's resort home at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida on Tuesday following his arraignment in Manhattan. Given her history of outbursts and her support of the Republican Party's fringes, some of Trump's advisers are reportedly worried of such a selection. Appearing to be doing damage-control for Trump's bid for the presidential race next year, several of his most outspoken conservative supporters said Loomer will no longer be hired. Also Read | Police issue 'ALL CLEAR' after reports of active shooter at University of Oklahoma, calls off alert Speaking with a media portal on Friday, Loomer said, “Out of respect for president Trump, I’m not going to comment on private conversations that I had with the president.” “The president knows I have always been a Trump loyalist,” she said adding, “I’m committed to helping him win re-election in 2024. He likes me very much. And it’s a shame that he’s surrounded by some people that run to a publication that is notorious for attacking him in order to try to cut me at the knees instead of being loyal to president Trump and respecting their confidentiality agreements.” As part of his 2016 campaign, Trump gave fuel to anti-Muslim prejudice. As president, he restricted travel from numerous countries with large Muslim population. He previously backed Loomer's bid for Florida's congressional seat in 2020. Watch | Pakistan: National Security Committee to launch new military operation against militants × Laura Loomer controversies Loomer campaigned unsuccessfully for Congress on two occasions. She once tweeted hashtag "#proudislamophobe" and has referred to Islam as a "cancer". She even celebrated the deaths of migrants trying to cross the Mediterranean. She was banned from Twitter in 2018 citing policy breach by hate speech. A Jewish politician, Loomer, chained herself to the gate to Twitter's New York offices and sewed a yellow Star of David to her clothing in retaliation for the ban. Comments against Ron DeSantis, wife Casey Loomer released videos on social media criticising Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. DeSantis is a prospective contender for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024. DeSantis and his wife Casey, who survived breast cancer, have been charged by Loomer of trying to play the 'cancer survivor' card "to make people think they are untouchable from criticism." 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.

Trump asks aides to hire Laura Loomer, an anti-Muslim, for campaign role

Stormy Daniels, the adult film star at the center of the criminal case against Donald Trump, said she does not think the former president should go to prison if convicted of concealing hush money payments he made to her.

Stormy Daniels says Donald Trump shouldn't go to jail in Hush money case

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