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Berkeley Repeals Landmark Climate Rule Banning Natural Gas Hookups

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Berkeley Repeals Landmark Climate Rule Banning Natural Gas Hookups

Edited by: TJVNews.com

In a significant turn of events, the city of Berkeley, California, has opted to repeal a pioneering climate regulation that would have prohibited natural gas hookups in new residential constructions, according to a recently published report in the New York Times. This decision casts doubt on the future of similar measures adopted by numerous cities nationwide aimed at curbing carbon emissions.

Berkeley’s gas ban, a groundbreaking initiative enacted in 2019, faced legal opposition from the California Restaurant Association and was invalidated last year by a panel of judges from the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, according to the information provided in the NYT report. The city recently settled the lawsuit by agreeing to immediately suspend enforcement of the regulation and eventually rescind it entirely.

“To comply with the Ninth Circuit’s ruling, we have ceased enforcement of the gas ban,” remarked Farimah Brown, Berkeley’s city attorney, in a statement, the report in the NYT said. Despite this setback, Brown emphasized that Berkeley remains committed to its role as a trailblazer in climate action.

The reverberations of Berkeley’s decision are likely to extend far beyond its city limits. Since Berkeley’s pioneering move, more than 140 municipalities across the country have followed suit, advocating for the elimination of natural gas usage in new construction projects as part of their climate mitigation strategies, as was revealed in the NYT report. Notable cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle have all embraced similar initiatives.

However, these efforts have encountered fierce resistance and legal pushback from various quarters, including the gas industry, restaurants, and homebuilders, as per the information in the NYT report.

While Berkeley’s gas ban faced legal challenges and was ultimately overturned, the implications for other municipalities with similar ordinances remain uncertain.

According to experts, the fate of gas bans in other cities may vary depending on the structure of their respective ordinances. The NYT reported that while some may withstand legal scrutiny, others could face similar challenges to Berkeley’s ban. Notably, certain California communities, such as San Luis Obispo and Santa Cruz, have opted to pursue alternative approaches focused on building efficiency standards rather than outright bans on gas hookups.

“We are encouraged that the City of Berkeley has agreed to take steps to repeal the ordinance,” remarked Jot Condie, president of the California Restaurant Association, according to the NYT report. “Every city and county in California that has passed a similar ordinance should follow their lead.”

The move to restrict natural gas usage in new buildings stems from concerns about the significant contribution of homes and buildings to America’s planet-warming emissions, with about 13 percent attributed to gas burned in furnaces, water heaters, stoves, ovens, and dryers, as was indicated in the NYT report. To address this issue, states such as California and New York have sought to incentivize the adoption of electric heating systems and appliances as alternatives to gas.

Berkeley’s gas ban gained national attention in 2019 when the City Council unanimously approved the prohibition of natural gas infrastructure in most newly constructed buildings. Noted in the NYT report was the fact that the measure was hailed by environmentalists and spurred similar actions in dozens of cities across California, signaling a growing movement to curb gas usage in new construction projects.

The natural gas industry and local utilities have spearheaded a backlash against gas bans, citing concerns about potential financial losses. As was mentioned in the NYT report, some chefs and restaurant owners have also joined the opposition, arguing that gas is essential for cooking and that alternative methods would compromise the quality of their cuisine.

Last April, the California Restaurant Association took legal action against Berkeley’s gas ban, leading to a ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court that deemed the ordinance in violation of federal law. The NYT reported that this decision was based on the interpretation that the Energy Department holds exclusive authority to establish energy efficiency standards for appliances, effectively nullifying Berkeley’s rule. Despite efforts to challenge the ruling, the court declined to rehear the case in January, leaving Berkeley with no choice but to abandon its gas ban.

Following the Ninth Circuit’s decision, other California cities halted their efforts to implement similar bans. Sacramento, for instance, ceased enforcing its gas ban, signaling a broader retreat from such initiatives in the state. However, the NYT report said that San Francisco has opted to continue enforcing its local ordinance restricting new gas hookups, asserting confidence in its legal footing due to differences in its wording and exemptions compared to Berkeley’s ordinance.

The legal battles surrounding gas bans are expected to persist, with New York City currently facing a similar challenge to its own ban on gas hookups for new buildings. The report also said that local construction groups have contested the law in court, setting the stage for further legal scrutiny and potential precedent-setting decisions.

In response to efforts to restrict gas use in new buildings, at least 24 predominantly red states have passed laws prohibiting their cities from implementing such measures, reflecting a broader divide over energy policy.

Last year, the Energy Department proposed stringent efficiency standards for stoves that would have restricted the sale of many gas-burning models. However, the NYT reported that the proposal faced bipartisan criticism, prompting the agency to revise its rule to ensure compliance for most gas stoves. This move highlighted resistance from both Republicans and some Democrats to federal measures perceived as encroaching on consumer choice and industry interests.

Elite New England Universities Set to Break Tuition Records, Charging $90,000 a Year

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Elite New England Universities Set to Break Tuition Records, Charging $90,000 a Year

Edited by: TJVNews.com

Students aspiring to attend some of the most prestigious universities in New England are facing sticker shock as tuition costs soar to unprecedented levels, as was recently reported in The New York Post.  Beginning this fall, several elite institutions, including Boston University, Tufts, Wellesley, and Yale, are slated to charge nearly $90,000 a year for tuition, housing, and other expenses, according to a report by The Boston Globe.

The staggering increase in tuition fees marks a significant milestone in the ongoing trend of rising college costs. Noted in the Post report was that just six years ago, families were already reeling from annual prices surpassing $70,000 at renowned institutions such as BU, Tufts, Harvard, and Amherst College. Now, with costs expected to hit the $90,000 mark, the financial burden on students and families is reaching unprecedented levels.

Speaking to the Post was Sandy Baum, a senior fellow at the Urban Institute’s Center on Education Data and Policy who highlighted the psychological impact of these escalating costs. Baum said,  “There’s always a huge psychological impact to these thresholds. I remember when it went above $50,000, and people were just in shock.”

The exorbitant fees reflect a 42% jump from a decade ago, when the total cost for attending Boston University stood at $63,644. According to the information provided in the Post report, at present, the $90,207 price tag for the 2024-2025 academic year at Boston University encompasses $66,670 in tuition, $19,020 for housing and food, as well as additional expenses such as books and fees.

While the aforementioned universities have taken the lead in announcing record-breaking tuition rates, other Boston-area colleges are expected to follow suit with price hikes for the upcoming academic year, warned the Post in their report. This trend underscores the broader challenges facing higher education, as institutions grapple with financial pressures and the rising costs of providing quality education and resources to students.

According to estimates provided by the schools, the cost of attendance at Tufts University in Medford will be a whopping $91,888, while Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, will follow closely behind at $90,975. The Post report also indicated that other esteemed institutions nearing the $90,000 mark include Brandeis University, Amherst College, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), all of which are expected to charge students significant amounts for tuition, housing, and other expenses.

The escalating costs of higher education have sparked widespread concern among students and families, prompting questions about accessibility and affordability. With tuition fees reaching unprecedented levels, many fear the financial burden placed on students may deter prospective applicants and exacerbate existing inequalities in higher education.

However, there is some relief for students facing the daunting prospect of hefty tuition bills. As per the information contained in the Post report, most universities offer financial aid and scholarships to alleviate the financial strain on students and ensure access to education for all. Boston University, for instance, plans to provide $425 million in financial aid for the next academic year, according to school spokesperson Colin Riley.

Riley emphasized to the Post that this need-based aid is “guaranteed for four years with BU Scholarship Assurance,” providing students with a degree of financial security throughout their undergraduate education. Approximately 56% of BU’s students receive financial aid in some form, with the average aid package amounting to around $67,000.

“While these figures may seem daunting, it’s important to recognize that many students won’t be paying the full listing price thanks to financial aid and scholarships,” Riley told the Post. “Because this is an average, some of the neediest students paid $0, and others paid more.”

In the face of these challenges, students and families must navigate the complex landscape of college affordability, weighing their options and seeking out resources to finance their education. As tuition fees continue to rise, the pursuit of higher education remains a costly endeavor, underscoring the need for ongoing dialogue and concerted efforts to address the affordability crisis in academia.

Monumental Mega Millions Win: $1.13 Billion Jackpot Claimed at Liquor Store Near Deal, NJ

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Monumental Mega Millions Win: $1.13 Billion Jackpot Claimed at Liquor Store Near Deal, NJ

Edited by: TJVNews.com

The air in Neptune Township, New Jersey, crackled with excitement as news spread of the astonishing $1.13 billion Mega Millions jackpot win on Wednesday, as was reported by the New York Post. The winning ticket, which forever altered the life of its fortunate owner, was purchased at ShopRite Liquor on Route 66. Under New Jersey law, lottery winners have the option to remain anonymous, adding an intriguing layer of mystery to the already sensational news, according to the Post report. With prizes claimable up to a year after the drawing, speculation abounds as to the identity of the individual who holds the life-changing ticket.

The store, nestled in Monmouth County, became the epicenter of jubilation as the New Jersey Lottery announced the historic win on Wednesday.

The Post report said that Richard Saker, president of the company overseeing the Neptune Township ShopRite, couldn’t contain his enthusiasm as he spoke about the momentous event. “It’s unbelievably exciting,” Saker shared with the NJ Advance. He further revealed that the store would be rewarded with a $30,000 bonus check for selling the winning ticket. However, what truly warmed hearts was Saker’s announcement that a portion of the proceeds from the lottery would be directed towards the ShopRite Partners in Caring Program. This initiative supports a staggering 2,200 charities dedicated to combating hunger, reflecting the store’s commitment to giving back to the community.

Despite the whirlwind of excitement surrounding the win, the identity of the newly minted billionaire remained shrouded in mystery. The ticket was sold by TiYahna Bambaata, the niece of Neptune Township’s mayor, who works part-time at the ShopRite store. However, the report in the Post indicated that even she was unaware of the identity of the lucky winner. “There was a few people coming in and out last night. I cannot remember who it was,” Bambaata, a college student, confessed to NJ Advance Media.

Nonetheless, Bambaata couldn’t contain her joy at the prospect of a local resident clinching the monumental jackpot. “It’s exciting. I’m happy that someone in my hometown (won),” she remarked, echoing the sentiments of the entire community, the Post report said. The notion that a fellow neighbor could experience such a life-altering stroke of luck filled the air with hope and optimism, symbolizing the transformative power of chance.

James Carey, executive director of the New Jersey Lottery, shed light on the situation, expressing both excitement and caution in light of the monumental win. “I don’t know who the winner is. We know where it was sold and when it was sold, but we don’t know who it was sold to,” Carey explained to the Post. Urging the winner to take immediate action, he advised, “If you are the winner, I encourage you right now, sign the back of the ticket, take a picture of it, make a copy of it, and put it in a safe place.”

 

Carey highlighted the importance of seeking professional guidance in managing newfound wealth. “Tell only your closest loved ones that you were this lucky winner and then I would urge you: go out and talk to a lawyer and maybe a financial adviser,” he advised, the Post reported. “Talk to someone that’s a professional about what to do with your newfound wealth and how to handle it.” The sudden transition from ordinary citizen to millionaire or even hundred-millionaire overnight can be overwhelming, and seeking expert advice is crucial in navigating this new reality, Carey emphasized.

The jackpot win, which marks the first of 2024, comes after 30 consecutive weeks without a Mega Millions winner, adding to the significance of the event, as was noted in the Post report. With a prize pool ranking as the eighth-largest in US lottery history, the win has captivated the imagination of people across the nation, fueling dreams of newfound prosperity and opportunity.

 

 

Disney Settles Legal Battle with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis

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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis believes that students should not have an agenda imposed on them. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)

Disney Settles Legal Battle with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis

Edited by: TJVNews.com

In a surprising turn of events, Disney has reached a settlement in its longstanding legal dispute with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, signaling a victory for the Republican leader in the contentious battle over a planned $17 billion development near Orlando’s theme park, as was reported in the New York Post.

The resolution marks a significant shift in the power dynamics surrounding the Reedy Creek Improvement District, which Disney had previously governed with self-governing authority. As indicated in the Post report, Governor DeSantis dissolved the district in 2022 following Disney’s opposition to his “Don’t Say Gay” bill, leading to a protracted legal standoff between the entertainment giant and the state government.

As part of the settlement, Disney has relinquished its control over the special tax district, paving the way for a new era of collaboration between the company and Florida’s leadership. According to the information provided in the Post report, Disney has also agreed to drop a lawsuit concerning access to public records and has postponed briefings in a federal lawsuit filed against Governor DeSantis, as both parties work towards a consensus on a new development agreement for Walt Disney World and other pertinent issues.

Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle expressed optimism about the agreement, stating, “This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district,” as was reported by the Post. The move reflects Disney’s willingness to move forward and foster positive relations with state officials.

Governor DeSantis seized the moment to assert his administration’s vindication, highlighting the settlement as a testament to the state’s resilience against legal challenges. “Every action that we’ve taken has been upheld in full, and the state is better off for it,” DeSantis declared during a press conference in Orlando, emphasizing the victory for Florida’s interests.

Despite the apparent triumph for Governor DeSantis, Disney has also secured notable concessions in the settlement. The report in the Post pointed out that the agreement includes DeSantis’s commitment to appoint board members to the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District who are viewed as sympathetic to Disney’s interests, providing the company with a significant say in future developments in the region.

Since the district’s takeover last year, a wave of experienced staffers has departed, citing concerns about the politicization of the governing body. The Post report noted that Glen Gilzean, the district’s administrator, recently left to assume a county elections supervisor role, while Martin Garcia, the DeSantis-appointed board chairman, followed suit shortly thereafter.

In their absence, Governor DeSantis has tapped Orlando businessman Craig Mateer to join the board. Information contained in the Post report said that Mateer, a supporter of DeSantis’s political campaigns, brings a wealth of experience from his previous appointments to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority and the Board of Governors overseeing the state university system.

Additionally, former DeSantis advisor Stephanie Kopelousos has been appointed as the new district administrator. Kopelousos’s extensive background in legislative affairs and her prior role as secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation under Governor Charlie Crist make her a seasoned choice for the position.

The departure of Garcia, who was known for his criticism of Disney, may have paved the way for a more amicable relationship between the district and the entertainment giant. Richard Foglesong, a Rollins College professor emeritus specializing in Walt Disney World governance, noted to the Post that Mateer’s familiarity with Orlando’s tourism and business sectors could have played a role in fostering collaboration.

Board member Charbel Barakat expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing the board’s eagerness to work closely with Disney moving forward, the Post said. “We are eager to work with Disney,” Barakat affirmed following the approval of the settlement deal.

As the newly appointed leadership assumes their roles, all eyes are on the potential for renewed cooperation and stability within the Reedy Creek Improvement District. With Disney’s interests intertwined with the district’s governance, the appointment of Mateer and Kopelousos signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing relationship between corporate interests and state governance in Florida.

 

Star Studded Biden Fundraiser at Radio City Music Hall Draws Pro-Hamas Hecklers & Raucous Protests

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Star Studded Biden Fundraiser at Radio City Music Hall Draws Pro-Hamas Hecklers & Raucous Protests

Edited by:  Fern Sidman

In a dramatic turn of events, President Biden’s high-profile fundraiser at Radio City Music Hall was marred by waves of protest on Thursday evening. According to the information provided in a New York Post report, the event, attended by former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, aimed to raise funds and enthusiasm for Biden’s 2024 re-election bid. However, it quickly turned chaotic as demonstrators disrupted the proceedings with their anti-Israel and hate filled messages.

One protester, wielding a whistle and brandishing a sign reading “war pig” while warning of “nuclear war with Russia,” stood out among the crowd. The Post report said that she was promptly removed from the venue, adding to the tumult of the evening. The event, touted by Biden as a “grassroots fundraiser,” took an unexpected turn as the first interruption was followed by waves of booing and whistling.

The protests were primarily focused on Biden’s perceived support for Israel’s actions in Gaza against the Hamas terrorist organization that was responsible for the brutal massacre of 1200 Israelis and others on October 7th.  Amidst the commotion, one demonstrator shouted, “Shame on you Joe Biden,” while others accused him, “Blood on your hands,” as was indicated in the Post report. Despite the disruption, President Biden urged security to allow the demonstrators to stay, signaling a willingness to engage with dissenting voices.

Former President Barack Obama, known for his oratory skills and ability to navigate tense situations, stepped in to address the protesters. “No, listen. You can’t talk all the time. Sometimes you have to listen,” Obama emphasized, the Post report said, as he acknowledged the importance of dialogue and understanding differing perspectives.

The armchair discussion at Radio City was moderated by CBS “Late Show” host Steven Colbert. The evening was not without its disruptions, with a total of six interruptions occurring during the Colbert panel.

Outside the venue, a sea of anti-Israel protesters gathered as part of a “Flood Manhattan for Gaza” demonstration, voicing their dissent against Biden’s policies. Chants of “Free, free Palestine!” echoed through the streets as protesters waved Palestinian flags and brandished signs denouncing the president and the Democratic Party, as per the information contained in the Post report. Amidst the fervor, NYPD officers maintained a watchful eye, with at least one demonstrator reportedly arrested for disorderly conduct.

Inside the theater, Colbert injected a moment of levity into the proceedings, quipping, “This is an extraordinary occasion because three presidents have come to New York — and not one of them is here to appear in court.” The report in the Post noted that the remark drew laughter from the audience and provided a brief respite from the tension spurred by the anti-Israel protests.

Despite the disruptions, the armchair discussion proceeded, offering insights into the perspectives of three influential figures within the Democratic Party. The Post report explained that Colbert skillfully guided the conversation, eliciting reflections on pressing issues facing the nation and the party’s vision for the future.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) kicked off the evening’s programming, setting the stage for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) to address the crowd of enthusiastic Democrats. As was indicated in the Post report, Schumer emphasized the dual objectives of the event, stating, “We are here to do two things.” He highlighted the importance of preventing the return of the “chaotic, dishonest, mendacious, ineffective regime of Donald Trump” while also rallying support for President Biden’s re-election bid.

Schumer, 73, lauded Biden’s accomplishments during his tenure, particularly in areas such as the environment, marriage equality, and the confirmation of “190 progressive judges,” the report added.

Following Schumer’s speech, the event took a vibrant turn with a musical performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Lizzo, adding an element of entertainment to the proceedings. Fashion designer Michael Kors also made an appearance, injecting a touch of glamour into the night.

As the host of the event, actress Mindy Kaling took to the stage, infusing the atmosphere with humor as she playfully teased the affluent donors in attendance. “This is such a big night,” Kaling quipped, according to the Post report. “It is such an honor to be in this room with so many rich people.” She humorously highlighted the exorbitant price of admission, joking that attendees were paying up to $500,000 to be present. “For that kind of money at an RNC fundraiser, you get to be Secretary of State,” she quipped, eliciting laughter from the audience.

Among the distinguished guests in attendance were members of the Biden family, including first son Hunter Biden, adding to the event’s significance and drawing attention to the president’s formidable fundraising prowess, the Post revealed. With over 5,000 attendees expected, the campaign projected a substantial boost to the president’s war chest, estimating a haul of more than $25 million.

Musical luminaries Queen Latifah, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo, and Lea Michele graced the stage with captivating performances, adding to the allure of the Democratic fundraiser. Attendees, ranging from those who purchased tickets priced at $250 to the most generous donors contributing up to $500,000, were treated to an unforgettable evening of entertainment and political fervor, the report in the Post observed. The most esteemed contributors were rewarded with a coveted photo opportunity alongside the three former presidents — captured by renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz — and exclusive invitations to receptions with President Biden, former President Obama, and former President Clinton.

Behind the scenes, the fundraiser was masterminded by Biden campaign co-chairman and Hollywood mogul Jeffrey Katzenberg, along with the influential Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. According to the Post report, Katzenberg expressed pride in the event’s success, emphasizing its significance as a testament to the growing momentum behind the re-election campaign of President Biden and Vice President Harris. “The numbers don’t lie: today’s event is a massive show of force and a true reflection of the momentum to reelect the Biden-Harris ticket,” Katzenberg remarked in a statement.

Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump seized upon the fundraiser as an opportunity to mobilize his own supporters and bolster his campaign coffers. Utilizing fundraising emails, Trump capitalized on the presence of “deranged Hollywood liberals” at the event, framing it as a rallying cry to counter a threat to the nation’s values and principles, as was pointed out in the Post report.

In a fervent appeal to supporters, the campaign issued a rallying cry to counter the financial might of their opponents, emphasizing the pivotal role of grassroots contributions in driving their momentum. “Together we can DROWN OUT their dirty dollars, but it all depends on how much support we get right here, right now,” the solicitation urged, according to the report in the Post, as it highlighted the grassroots nature of their fundraising efforts. “Remember, my campaign isn’t powered by the Hollywood ‘elite’ writing 6-figure checks – IT’S POWERED BY YOU!” This impassioned plea underscores the campaign’s commitment to grassroots mobilization and the reliance on individual contributions to fuel their efforts.

Despite recent polls indicating former President Trump’s lead in the 2024 race, President Biden maintains a significant financial advantage, bolstered by a robust fundraising apparatus and widespread support, as per the information in the Post report.  With a reported $155 million in cash on hand as of this month, the Biden campaign has amassed considerable resources to propel their re-election bid forward. Moreover, President Biden’s fundraising prowess was further highlighted by the staggering $53 million raised in a nationwide fundraising blitz over the past month alone.

In contrast, former President Trump’s campaign finds itself trailing behind in terms of financial resources, with a reported campaign stockpile of $36.6 million. Despite his formidable political presence and dedicated base of supporters, Trump’s fundraising efforts have yet to match the formidable war chest amassed by the Biden campaign, as was explained in the Post report.

 

 

 

 

 

Jewish Organizational Leaders Remember the Extraordinary Life & Impactful Legacy of Sen. Joe Lieberman

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Jewish Organizational Leaders Remember the Extraordinary Life & Impactful Legacy of Sen. Joe Lieberman

Edited by:  Fern Sidman

Joseph I. Lieberman, a towering figure in American politics and the first Jewish candidate on a major-party presidential ticket, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 82, as was reported by the New York Times.  His legacy as Connecticut’s four-term United States senator and his significant role as Vice President Al Gore’s Democratic running mate in the contentious 2000 presidential election remain indelible marks on the nation’s political landscape.

Lieberman’s family confirmed that his passing was due to complications from a fall at his home in the Riverdale section of the Bronx, New York. Despite efforts to save him, Lieberman succumbed to his injuries at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital in Upper Manhattan.

At the zenith of his political career, Lieberman emerged as a voice of morality and integrity within the Democratic Party. He made history as the first major Democrat to publicly rebuke President Bill Clinton for his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky, according to the information provided in the NYT report. This principled stance solidified Lieberman’s reputation as a man of conscience and paved the way for his selection as Al Gore’s running mate at the Democratic National Convention in August 2000.

The Gore-Lieberman ticket campaigned on themes of integrity and faith, seeking to distance themselves from the scandals that plagued the Clinton administration, the NYT report noted. Lieberman’s advocacy for bringing religion and faith into public life resonated with many Americans, reflecting his deeply held convictions and commitment to moral leadership.

In the fiercely contested 2000 presidential election, the Gore-Lieberman team secured a narrow plurality of the popular vote, garnering half a million more votes than their Republican counterparts, George W. Bush and Dick Cheney, as was indicated in the NYT report. However, the Electoral College outcome remained uncertain, plunging the nation into an intense legal battle that would ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court.

Despite the outcome of the election, Lieberman’s impact on American politics transcends electoral victories and defeats. Throughout his four terms in the Senate, he remained a steadfast advocate for bipartisan cooperation and principled leadership, the NYT report said. His legacy as a trailblazer for Jewish representation in national politics and his unwavering commitment to upholding moral values continue to inspire generations of leaders and citizens alike.

In the immediate aftermath of Lieberman’s passing, a litany of Jewish organizations expressed their sympathy and condolences through statements sent to the media.

The Republican Jewish Coalition Chairman Senator Norm Coleman said in a statement,  “Joe Lieberman was a true mensch and a great American. It was a pleasure and an honor to work with him in the Senate. He built a successful political career while staying true to what he felt was right. Time and again, Senator Lieberman put principle over politics. He was a shining example of all that’s good and decent about public service. And he was a committed and proud Jew who served his country with distinction.”

Coleman added that, “Joe Lieberman was called the last of the Scoop Jackson Democrats. We miss those Democrats who took the defense of liberty seriously, and who worked with their colleagues across the aisle to keep America – and our ally Israel – safe. I am proud to have known Joe and the Republican Jewish Coalition was proud to work with him over the years. We will miss his friendship, his leadership, and the integrity he demonstrated during more than two decades in the Senate. May his memory be a blessing.

World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder said, “It is with profound sadness that the World Jewish Congress mourns the loss of former Senator Joseph Lieberman, a trailblazer for Jewish public servants in the United States who wore his faith on his sleeve. Senator Lieberman’s career was a beacon of dedication to public service, characterized by his deep commitment to Jewish principles, and an unwavering support for the fight against anti-Semitism.

Lauder added: “I had the privilege of knowing Senator Lieberman personally. While we might not have agreed on every issue, his integrity, and devotion to the Jewish community and to strengthening Israel-U.S. relations were always a constant. Senator Liberman was a true mensch, whose legacy of leadership and service will continue to inspire future generations. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and all who were touched by his remarkable life. May his memory be a blessing.”

Also in reaction to Lieberman’s passing, the CEO of the Combat Anti-Semitism Movement, Sacha Roytman said, “I join the world in mourning Senator Lieberman’s passing. I got to know Joe during his time as a member of the CAM Advisory Board, a role to which he brought his passion for the safety and well-being of Jews around the world, and I will forever be thankful for that opportunity. The Jewish people will particularly feel his loss because of his iconic life and work. He stood up for the cause of freedom around the world and had a profound impact on each and every one of us. Even in death, Joe’s legacy will continue to serve as an inspiration for me and the entire CAM team. Our deepest condolences go out to Joe’s beloved wife Hadassah, his children, and the entire Lieberman family.”

William Daroff, CEO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, issued the following statement: “I first met Joe Lieberman sitting around a small family Passover seder table in Washington in 1989, during his first year as a Senator. Since that time, he has been a mentor and friend who was always willing and able to provide counsel – on issues public and private. His iconic presence in American Jewish life is forever enshrined by his being the first Jew to be on a major party Presidential ticket – a role that inspired a generation of young American Jews to follow his lead by seeking careers in public service. Senator Lieberman’s prescient warnings and efforts to avert a nuclear Iran will also be his lasting legacy. May Hadassah and his entire family be comforted amongst the mourners of Zion, and may his memory forever be for blessings.”

In a statement issued by Agudath Israel of America concerning the passing of Senator Lieberman, they said that Lieberman was “ a friend of Agudath Israel and the Orthodox Jewish community, participating in Agudath Israel events and championing the needs of the community.”

Senator Lieberman, dubbed the “conscience of the Senate,” was a strong supporter of Israel, and worked to ensure its security both during and after his tenure as senator.

The statement went on to say: “Senator Lieberman was also closely involved with Orthodox Jewish leaders, such as Rabbi Moshe Sherer, legendary president of Agudath Israel of America, and Rabbi Herman Neuberger, the venerable late president of Ner Israel Rabbinical College. The senator referred to them as “tremendous representatives of Torah Jewry” who became his “great friends and advisors.”

The Agudath Israel added that, “Senator Lieberman was concerned with the Orthodox community’s representation in the secular world, saying that the rising population of Orthodox Jews within the larger Jewish community brought with it “a new power, but also a responsibility to represent the Jewish community to the non-Jewish community, to the government, and within the Jewish community itself, guided only by the words of Torah.”

“I regularly was asked by Jewish students if I knew ‘Senator Lieberman, the Sabbath observant Jew,’” said Rabbi Abba Cohen, vice president for government affairs and Washington director and counsel for Agudath Israel, who had a long-standing relationship with Senator Lieberman. “They wanted to know all about Joe. It was clear that he was a source of pride and inspiration to young people. He was an exemplar of Orthodox Judaism to the world. The senator and his Torah observance made an impression on people and intrigued them. People were influenced by, and attracted to, him and his values. Agudath Israel extends its deep sympathies and sincere condolences to the Lieberman family.”

Also commenting on what Senator Lieberman meant to them was Yeshiva University. In a statement, they said, “the entire Yeshiva University community is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Senator Joseph Lieberman — a renowned figure of faith in the public square, a history-making statesman, and a beloved member of the YU family.”

Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President of Yeshiva University said, “Today, I lost a dear friend and mentor, and we all lost an American hero who devoted his life to the service of this country.  Senator Joseph Lieberman was a man of courage, faith, and fortitude, an independent thinker whose humility and commitment served as an example to all of our students and faculty at Yeshiva University.”

He added that, “I will miss Senator Lieberman’s wisdom and counsel as a University Trustee. He was our champion. He was a voice of moral reason and a true friend of Israel. Senator Lieberman embodied Yeshiva University’s mission: to produce excellent leaders and excellent citizens, empowered by faith and obligated by the bonds of duty. His memory will always be a blessing. His legacy to perfect the world as God’s partner will be recorded in the annals of American and Jewish history.”

The YU statement continued: In a career that spanned four decades, including as the first Jewish American nominated to a national ticket as the Democratic Party’s nominee for vice president in 2000, Senator Lieberman maintained a long and deep relationship with YU — a relationship based on shared values, goals, and a devotion to making the world better. Beyond his valued role as a professor at Yeshiva University, Senator Lieberman was a member of YU’s Board of Trustees since 2021. In that capacity he strengthened and guided YU’s vision, a vision that paralleled his own.

Inspired by Senator Lieberman’s stellar character, bold leadership, and commitment to public service, Yeshiva University announced earlier this year the new Senator Joseph Lieberman-Mitzner Center for Public Service and Advocacy through a principal gift from the Ira Mitzner and Riva Collins families. With Senator Lieberman as its model, the Center will empower the next generation of government leaders and public advocates, with a national and international focus, who are deeply rooted in Jewish values and tradition.

“I am devastated by the loss of our friend and mentor, a model of faith and civility across the political aisle, whose contribution to the world, and to YU, is irreplaceable,” said Ira Mitzner, Chairman of the YU Board of Trustees.

Also expressing his sorrow on the passing of Senator Lieberman, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweeted the following, “Sara and I grieve with Hadassah and the entire Lieberman family on the passing of our beloved Joe Lieberman. Joe was an exemplary public servant, an American patriot and a matchless champion of the Jewish people and the Jewish state.”

Netanyahu added that, “In my very first meeting with him decades ago, I was struck by his integrity, decency and civic courage. He had a deep moral sense and common sense and was fearless in the defense of truth. He was also an extraordinarily kind and loyal personal friend. We will miss you greatly, Joe. May the Lieberman family be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.”

As the nation mourns the loss of Joseph I. Lieberman, his legacy serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of integrity, faith, and public service in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society. In honoring his memory, we reaffirm our commitment to the ideals he championed and the principles he held dear, ensuring that his legacy continues to shape the future of American democracy for years to come.

 

 

 

Poll: Half Say They Are Actively ‘Struggling’ in Biden’s Economy

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President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address on March 7, 2024, has stirred controversy and raised concerns, particularly in relation to his statements on the Israel-Hamas war. One of the key points of contention is Biden’s call for a Palestinian state as the “only solution” and “only path” to resolve the seemingly intractable conflict. Credit: AP

A majority of likely general election voters disapprove of President Joe Biden’s job performance, and half are actively “struggling” in Biden’s economy, the March survey from McLaughlin & Associates found.

Respondents gave Biden a negative job rating, as 56 percent disapprove of his job performance, compared to 42 percent who approve. Of the 56 percent who disapprove, 40 percent do so “strongly.” Biden is also completely underwater among independents, as 58 percent disapprove of his job performance compared to 37 percent who approve.

Most, 55 percent, also have an unfavorable view of Biden, coopered to 42 percent who have a favorable view. Once again, most independents, 57 percent, have an unfavorable view of Biden as well.

A plurality, 46 percent, have an unfavorable view of “Bidenomics,” and more voters view Biden’s economic policies as “big government socialism” — 43 percent — rather than “free market capitalism” — 35 percent. Notably, 44 percent of independents view Biden’s economic policies as socialism compared to 30 percent who view them as capitalism. This is significant, as voters largely view the economic issues as the most important, according to the survey’s results.

The survey also asked:

Which of the following best describes how inflation and higher costs have impacted your personal and household
financial situation?

1) With inflation and higher prices, we are struggling to keep up and afford basic necessities.

2) We are not struggling but inflation and higher prices have had a significant impact on our finances and spending.

3) Despite inflation and higher prices, we are still able to afford our normal spending without cutting back.

Overall, 83 percent said they have been impacted by inflation in Biden’s America. Of those, 50 percent said they are actively “struggling to keep up and afford basic necessities.” Only 17 percent said they have seen no change in their personal situation.

 

A majority of Democrats, Republicans and independents also said they have been impacted by Biden’s inflation, but that includes 41 percent of Democrats, 57 percent of Republicans, and 53 percent of independents who said they are “struggling to keep up and afford basic necessities.”

The survey was taken March 9-14 among 1,000 likely general election voters.

Speaking to Breitbart News exclusively last week, former President Donald Trump, the GOP nominee for president, warned that the country is in “deep trouble” as “lunatic” Biden is in charge of the country for another seven months, pointing to the economic crisis.

“This country is in deep trouble,” Trump said. “We’ve never been in trouble like this. We’re in more trouble because [Vladimir] Putin doesn’t respect us. Ukraine never would have happened with Russia. Israel never would have been invaded.”

“We wouldn’t have inflation, because it was all caused by energy,” Trump continued. “Day one it was caused by energy. I think we’re in massive trouble as a country. We have a little more than seven months until the election, and that sounds like a short time, but that’s an eternity for this lunatic to be running this country. If we don’t win… I think that November 5 is the most important day in the history of our country.”

Democrat Mega Donor Sam Bankman-Fried Sentenced to 25 Years in Jail for Fraud

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In this screengrab from an interview with ABC News is Sam Bankman-Fried, former CEO of the failed cryptocurrency exchange FTX. The interview, which appeared on the program Good Morning America, took place in the Bahamas island of Nassau where FTX was headquartered. (Good Morning America/ABC News via AP)

Sean Moran(Breitbart)

Disgraced FTX CEO and Democrat Megadonor Sam Bankman-Fried on Thursday was sentenced to 25 years in jail for fraud after facing up to 100 years in jail. His sentence pales in comparison to fraudster Bernie Madoff, who received a sentence of 150 years for his financial crimes.

Judge Lewis Kaplan, who sentenced Bankman-Fried said that SBF committed witness tampering before he was remanded into custody when he communicated with former FTX general counsel. Kaplan also found that he committed perjury during his trial testimony; he reportedly falsely testified that he had no knowledge that Alameda Research, FTX’s sister company and hedge fund, had spent FTX customer deposits before the fall of 2022.

Kaplan also said that Bankman-Fried “wanted to be a hugely politically influential person in this country” and that led to his financial crimes.

 

 

The 25-year sentence pales in comparison to the potential 100 years SBF faced based on his crimes, perjury, and witness tampering.

Prosecutor Nicolas Roos said “Sam Bankman-Fried stole over $8 billion in customer money, and I emphasize stole because it was not a liquidity crisis, or an active mismanagement, or poor oversight from the top. It was not a bloodless financial loss on paper.”

Bankman-Fried’s attorney, Marc Mukasey, told the court on Thursday, “Sam was not a ruthless financial serial killer who set out every morning to hurt people.”00

“His real motivations were misapprehended and misunderstood. Really he’s an awkward math nerd…He loves video games and veganism, and he’s compassionate to animals,” he added.

“A lot of people feel really let down, and they were very let down, and I am sorry about that. I am sorry about what happened at every stage. And there are things I should’ve done and things I shouldn’t have,” Bankman-Fried told the court.

In early November, Bankman-Fried was convicted of five counts of conspiracy and two counts of wire fraud.

Ahead of Bankman-Fried’s sentencing, current FTX CEO John Ray issued a scathing rebuke of Bankman-Fried, saying that the former FTX CEO made “callously” and “demonstrably false” claims in Bankman-Fried’s efforts to secure a lighter prison term. Ray said that the harm caused by Bankman-Fried is “vast” and his remorse is “nonexistent.”

 

 

Although one court convicted Bankman-Fried of fraud and conspiracy, the Department of Justice (DOJ) declined to prosecute Bankman-Fried for his allegedly unlawful political donations using customer funds for his alleged bribery of foreign officials.

Breitbart News reported:

Indeed, during the height of his influence, Bankman-Fried sought to outpace Democrat megadonor George Soros as the largest donor to the party. He reportedly spent $100 million in stolen customer funds to donate mostly to Democrats and was the second largest donor to Joe Biden’s presidential campaign. (Only former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg gave more.) One Puck News report found that Bankman-Fried sought advisers and conducted data experiments to help Democrats during the 2024 elections.
Bankman-Fried’s mother, Barbara Fried, helped craft the strategic memo that guided the Democrats’ 2020 election strategy as the leader of the Democrat super PAC Mind the Gap. Fried, a Stanford University professor, argued that Democrats should move to get non-partisan Americans registered to vote as it is “four to ten times more cost-effective” at “netting additional Democratic votes.”

The trial against Bankman-Fried yielded many startling revelations about Bankman-Fried and how he operated the cryptocurrency exchange. This includes:

  • SBF claimed to be soulless when writing a list of pros and cons about being in a relationship with Caroline Ellison, his on-and-off girlfriend and the head of Alameda
  • Lawyers for Bankman-Fried claimed he was simply a “math nerd” who “didn’t steal from anyone”
  • FTX cofounder Gary Wang spilled his guts on the company’s fraud
  • Bribery and Thai prostitutes were used as bargaining chips to unlock $1 billion of frozen funds on other digital currency exchanges
  • Bankman-Fried needed Adderall to “meaningfully participate” in the trial
  • Bankman-Fried ignored employee concerns about extravagant spending, including a $30 million penthouse in the Bahamas that served as the company’s headquarters
  • Bankman-Fried only “skimmed” the company’s terms of service
  • Bankman-Fried was “foolish” to stand as a witness during the trial
  • Lawyers for Bankman-Fried decried his conditions in jail, including a lack of vegan meals, saying, “because he’s following his principles, [Bankman-Fried] is only now subsisting on a diet of bread and water.”

Another infamous fraudster, Bernard “Bernie” Madoff,” was sentenced to 150 years in prison for his multi-billion dollar fraud scheme.

Sean Moran is a policy reporter for Breitbart News. Follow him on Twitter @SeanMoran3.

 

US Sanctions Online Media Site Gaza Now and Its Founder for Allegedly Supporting Hamas

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FILE- This June 6, 2019, file photo shows the U.S. Treasury Department building at dusk in Washington. The U.S. on Wednesday imposed sanctions on an online media site called Gaza Now and its founder Mustafa Ayash, for allegedly supporting Hamas. U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control says that after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas against Israel — the online entity began a fundraising effort in support of the militant organization.  (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)

(AP) — The U.S. on Wednesday imposed sanctions on online media site Gaza Now and its founder Mustafa Ayash for allegedly supporting Hamas.

U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control says that after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas against Israel — the online entity began a fundraising effort in support of the militant organization.

Gaza Now’s Arabic channel has more than 300,000 followers on social media channel X, formerly known as Twitter, and a large following on the encrypted chat platform Telegram.

Included in the sanctions are firms Al-Qureshi Executives and Aakhirah Ltd., and their director Aozma Sultana, who are alleged to have partnered on multiple fundraising efforts alongside Gaza Now.

The sanctions were imposed in collaboration with the U.K.’s Office of Foreign Sanctions Implementation.

Treasury Under Secretary Brian Nelson said in a statement that the U.S. and its partners “will continue to leverage our tools to disrupt Hamas’ ability to facilitate further attacks.”

A representative for Gaza Now and Ayash were not immediately available. The sanctions block access to U.S. property and bank accounts and prevent those designated from doing business with Americans.

Baltimore Mayor Goes on Unhinged MSNBC Rant Threatens White Conservatives

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By Jared Evan

 Radical, Far left Baltimore mayor Brandon Scott appeared on extremist Joy Reid’s MSNBC show to assert that white conservatives “should be afraid” of the consequences of calling him the ‘DEI Mayor’ and that his “purpose in life” was to make them uncomfortable, in an unhinged, racist and divisive rant.
Baltimore is a city that has been in crisis for decades, with sky high crime rates, a declining population and urban decay, similiar to what was seen in 1970’s Bronx.
Angry and out in the open racist , Joy Reid , asserted that when right-wingers make fun of DEI, they actually mean just “black people,” claiming, “It’s the reason they complained about Critical Race Theory, it’s not fashionable to be openly racist anymore in America.”

Mayor Scott , who looks liike A BLM street activist went on a hateful, racist rant on National TV
The mayor complained about “young black men” being demonized and treated as the “boogeymen” by racist conservatives who think that “only straight, white wealthy men” should have power.
The left wing lunatic said
“We know what they want to say and they don’t have the courage to say the n-word,” he ludicrously added, before appearing to make some kind of veiled threat.
“The fact that I don’t believe in their untruthful and wrong ideology and I am very proud of my heritage and who I am and where I come from scares them, because me being at my position means that their way of thinking, their way of life of being comfortable while everyone else suffers is going to be at risk and they should be afraid because that’s my purpose in life,” said Scott.
Scott’s “purpose in life” is to make white people uncomfortable and afraid. 
With a crime rate of 48 per one thousand residents, Baltimore has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes – from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One’s chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 21
Mayor Scott is an extremist to the core, and could be the final nail in the coffin of the once great city.  Scott only sees one thing, and that is skin color.
As his city collapses in a cesspool of crime and death, the mayor is more interested in attacking “white conservatives” which do not even  exist in Baltimore, a citv controlled 100% by Democrats, who are mostly non-white.

US Intel Agency Wants To Ban Terms ‘Radical Islamists’ and ‘Jihadist’ Because They’re Hurtful to Muslim Americans

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biznews.com
Adam Kredo

The United States’ top intelligence agency wants to ban its spies from using “biased language,” including the terms “radical Islamists” and “jihadist,” saying these words “are hurtful to Muslim-Americans and detrimentally impact our efforts as they bolster extremist rhetoric,” according to a language guide published internally.

 

The
Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI),
which is responsible for handling the country’s spy apparatus, seeks to ban a range of common terms because it says they offend Muslims and foment racism against employees. In addition to terms describing Islamic terrorists, ODNI instructs employees to avoid phrases such as “blacklisted,” “cakewalk,” “brown bag,” “grandfathered,” and “sanity check.”
“Blacklisted,” for instance, “implies black is bad and white is good,” while “cakewalk” is said to refer “to a dance performed by slaves for slave owners on plantation grounds.” “Brown bag,” a term most often used to describe a paper bag that holds one’s lunch, actually “refers to the ‘brown bag’ test practices in the 20th century within the African American community,” according to ODNI, which outlined these terms in an internal magazine produced by the agency’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility.
The document, which was first reported by the Daily Wire, is the latest example of how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives inside the American government are reshaping how employees speak to one another and perform their national security jobs. Critics describe these programs as part of a “woke” cultural shift promoted by far-left activists and their allies in the Biden administration. Republicans in Congress are looking to strip millions in federal funding for DEI programs across the military and other agencies, arguing they fundamentally harm the country’s national security operations across the globe.
Rep. Jim Banks (R., Ind.), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, which oversees the intelligence community, said woke initiatives like the ones laid out in the magazine are “a gift to our adversaries.”
“U.S. intelligence officials are being trained to use terms that don’t ‘disparage’ China or Islamic terrorists,” Banks said. “Wokeness is a gift to our adversaries.”
The quarterly magazine, called The Dive, also includes an anonymous article by a male intelligence officer who discusses the benefits of being a crossdresser. “I am an intelligence officer, and I am a man who likes to wear women’s clothes sometimes,” the anonymous employee wrote. “I think my experiences as someone who crossdresses have sharpened the skills I use as an intelligence officer, particularly critical thinking and perspective-taking.”
The ODNI magazine was published earlier this year and focuses on “the importance of words.”
“What we say can make or break rapport, elevate or tarnish a reputation, and even support or refute a narrative,” wrote the magazine’s editor in chief, a DEI employee whose name is redacted. “As employees of the [intelligence community], our work and our words are forever etched in history and speak volumes to the important work we carry out in service of the greater good. It is paramount that we are cognizant about the terminology we use in every aspect of our duties.”
The magazine is a product of discussion among “all nine diversity advisory committees” housed in the U.S. intelligence community. The officials are “working tirelessly to identify their constituents’ challenges, concerning terminology, and themes to incorporate in their respective language guidance reports.”
Discussions about Islamic terrorists and their ideology remain a central concern for the intelligence community, which is prioritizing “disentangling Islam from words and phrases used to discuss terrorism and extremist violence.”
Officials say they “noticed how some trainings and official presentations conflated Islamic beliefs with terrorism, which is offensive and alienates our Muslim-American colleagues.” Additionally, they “noticed how the [U.S. government], particularly the [intelligence community], used certain phrases to identify international terrorism threats that are hurtful to Muslim-Americans and detrimentally impact our efforts as they bolster extremist rhetoric.”
These observations led to several common phrases being listed as “problematic” and banned from use. Intelligence community employees should not say “Salafi-Jihadist,” “Jihadist,” “Islamic-Extremist,” “Sunni/Shia-Extremism,” or “Radical Islamists,” according to the document. “These terms incorrectly suggest that Islamic beliefs somehow condone the actions and rhetoric espoused by these foreign terrorist organizations.”
Intelligence community officials spoke with a range of academic and community activists when sculpting this policy.
“The majority of people we spoke with mentioned how they ‘cringe’ when hearing [government] officials use these offensive terms and noted it creates an incorrect perception that the American identity conflicts with Islamic beliefs, even though Muslim-Americans have been a part of the fabric of this society as far back as the war for independence,” the magazine says.
“Together,” the publication states, “we can make micro-changes in our culture and in our personal and professional environments.”
The document outlines other terms that are not racially charged but are nonetheless labeled problematic.
“Grandfathered,” for instance, refers to a “statutory and constitutional clause enacted by seven states from 1895 to 1910 that denied suffrage to African Americans, preventing them from the right to vote prior to 1866,” according to a list of hurtful words included in the documents.
“Sanity check” is also listed as a term that could offend colleagues because it “implies that individuals with mental illness are inferior, wrong, or incorrect.”
In the article on crossdressing, headlined “My Gender Identity and Expression Make Me a Better Intelligence Officer,” the employee writes that “I’m more aware of, and hopefully supporting, my women colleagues.”
“I now have a better appreciation for how it can be uncomfortable to wear women’s clothes sometimes,” he writes. “I know firsthand how wearing heels can make your feet hurt and make it take longer to walk somewhere. Although I like wearing a bra, I know it isn’t comfortable for everyone, and is less comfortable after a few hours. On top of the biases that women often face at work, it must be hard to be uncomfortable, too.”
Crossdressing, the employee says, makes him “better at understanding clandestine assets and their motivations. I understand the motivation to keep secrets about who you are and what you are doing, which sounds similar to some of the experience of an asset.”
The magazine also includes a word search game that includes terms like “accessibility,” “inclusion,” “equality,” and “ally.”
Sen. Ted Cruz (R., Texas) said the intelligence community’s avoidance of phrases like “Islamic terrorism” interferes with efforts to crackdown on Palestinian terror groups, like Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which participated in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.
“October 7 was carried out by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Apparently, that is an inconvenient fact to the language, commissars, who I presume want to edit out the word Islamic from the name of the terrorist group, Palestinian Islamic Jihad,” Cruz said in a recent episode on his podcast. “If the intelligence community has no idea, refuses to acknowledge what is actually happening, it means they will be utterly ineffective in fighting against it and keeping Americans and our allies safe.”

Jewish Dems Endorse ‘Squad’ Challengers, Pitting Them Against Incumbents Jamaal Bowman and Cori Bush

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Rep. Jamaal Bowman (N.Y.) is excusing the basketball players who hurled anti-Semitic slurs at their Jewish opponents. Credit: AP

Jessica Costescu– Free Beacon

The Jewish Democratic Council of America is backing primary challengers to anti-Israel Reps. Jamaal Bowman (D., N.Y.) and Cori Bush (D., Mo.), marking the first time the group has endorsed against any Democratic incumbent.

The council announced its support for pro-Israel Democrats George Latimer and Wesley Bell, who are running against Bowman and Bush, respectively, in a Thursday press release.

“George Latimer, a longtime progressive leader in Westchester County and a partner to Jewish New Yorkers, resolutely stands behind our community when challenging moments arise, including the current one,” JCDA chair-elect Susie Stern said.

“At an unprecedented moment for Jewish Americans, we are responding with action at the ballot box,” chief of staff Sam Crystal added.

The unprecedented move reflects Bowman and Bush’s vulnerability as they barrel toward their summer primaries.

Both Bowman and Bush have ramped up their anti-Israel rhetoric in the wake of Hamas’s Oct. 7 terror attack, prompting criticism from Jewish leaders in their districts. In November, Bowman accused Israel of “mass murder,” “genocide,” and “ethnic cleansing,” rhetoric that Bush has echoed.

In Bowman’s New York City district, 26 rabbis wrote an October letter that denounced the congressman’s “anti-Israel policy positions and messaging” and encouraged Latimer to run. In Bush’s St. Louis district, a coalition of Jewish organizations similarly accused the congresswoman of “fanning the flames of antisemitism.”

“Representative Bush has shown little outrage against the horrendous attacks by an organization whose very charter calls for the killing of all Jewish people,” the coalition wrote in a November letter.

“To the contrary, in private discussions she has stated repeatedly that she supports the Jewish community, is listening to our fears and concerns, and stands against antisemitism,” the coalition continued. “She then issues public statements that directly contradict what she told us in private.”

In addition to her claim that Israel is committing “genocide,” Bush was one of just two House members who voted against a January bill that barred terrorists who participated in the Oct. 7 attack from entering the United States. Bush said the bill would “target immigrants and incite anti-Palestinian hate.”

Bell condemned Bush in response, calling her vote “offensive and embarrassing to our community.”

“We will never be a safe haven for terrorists, and we need a Congressperson who knows better,” he said in a statement.

Neither Bowman nor Bush responded to requests for comment. Last month, the lawmakers teamed up to hold a joint fundraiser in Los Angeles, which was hosted by a number of anti-Israel activists who defended Hamas’s attack on the Jewish state, the Washington Free Beacon reported.

Bowman will square off against Latimer in late June, while Bush’s primary date against Bell is Aug. 6. The winners of those primaries are expected to win their general elections in November.

Gaza terrorist confesses to raping Israeli woman during October 7th invasions

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Manar Mahmoud Muhammad Kasem, a Islamic Jihad terrorist who confessed to raping an Israeli woman on October 7th. (IDF)

By World Israel News Staff

A Gaza terrorist affiliated with the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement confessed to raping an Israeli woman during the invasion of October 7th, telling interrogators details about the sexual assault.

On Thursday, the IDF released a five-minute video clip recorded during the questioning of Manar Mahmoud Muhammad Kasem, a 28-year-old Islamic Jihad terrorist from the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Yunis who was captured by Israeli forces.

During his interrogation, Kasem candidly describes his attacks on Israelis during October 7th, as well as the rape he perpetrated against an Israeli woman in her home.

Kasem, a member of Palestinian Islamic Jihad’s naval assault force, described

“First thing in the morning I woke up and went to the command and control center. My friend, Mahmoud al-Khush, had told me to come,” Kasem said.

He crossed the Israel-Gaza border armed with a pistol and two grenades, while his companion carried an AK-47, Kasem said.

During an ensuing gun fight, Kasem ran towards a nearby kibbutz.

“We walked and I got off before the jeep and then we walked a bit, and the person who was with me was hit in the head,” Kasem recalled.

“Out of fear, I entered the kibbutz and went in the nearest house.”

Initially, Kasem said, he did not see anyone in the house.

“But then I entered a room and there was someone there, she was frightened.”

“She was afraid of me, but asked me to help her. I took her and threw her onto a couch.”

When asked to describe her, he said the woman had “hair that wasn’t extremely long – like normal – and she was thin.”

“She was wearing a blue skirt and white shirt.”

“The devil took control of me,” Kasem continued, describing the rape. “I laid her down and started to undress her. Then I did what I did. I slept with her.”

When pressed to fully elaborate, Kasem admitted: “I raped her.”

“She pushed me. It didn’t last long; I heard shouting outside. It was two minutes, maybe a minute and a half.”

Moments later, two more terrorists burst into the home, and another woman, possibly the rape victim’s mother, was heard screaming.

“After we heard the screams, she and I both started to get dressed, and then these two men entered. They had uniforms of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades.”

“They pulled in the girl’s mother and sat the two next to each other. The girl and the mother started comforting each other, from what I understood.”

“Then suddenly they took the girl and the woman…I stayed in the room and they left through the gate they had entered from.”

Afterwards, Kasem said he opened fire on several Israeli men, wounding one of them.

“I heard gunshots near me, in the houses behind me. I drew my pistol and I shot one [man], he fell on the floor. Another hid, and I threw a grenade and fled the kibbutz.”

Three Israelis wounded in Jordan Valley terror shooting

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Three Israelis were wounded in a Palestinian terror shooting along Route 90 in the Jordan Valley, March 28, 2024. Credit: Rescuers Without Borders.

 

A Palestinian gunman opened fire on a school bus and several cars traveling along Route 90, near Al-Auja, north of Jericho.

The terrorist ambushed passing vehicles from the side of the road, firing at them from a standing position and then immediately fleeing the scene, according to eyewitnesses.

The terrorist was masked and wearing clothing resembling an IDF uniform.

Israeli forces launched a manhunt for the perpetrator.

Amid the search, the head of the IDF’s Central Command, Maj. Gen. Yehuda Fox, held a situational assessment at the scene of the attack.

Magen David Adom emergency medics treated a 30-year-old man with moderate gunshot wounds and another man in his 20s who was lightly injured. A 13-year-old boy was also lightly injured by glass shards.

The two adult victims were evacuated to Hadassah-Ein Kerem Medical Center in Jerusalem while the teen was being treated at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in the capital.

Victims of a Palestinian terror shooting arrive at Jerusalem’s Hadassah-Ein Kerem Medical Center, March 28, 2024. Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90.

“We must defeat the enemy while deepening our roots in the land of our forefathers. Precisely now is the time to apply sovereignty to the Jordan Valley, an area whose importance is not disputed in Israeli society,” said Israeli lawmaker Dan Illouz, a member of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.

“This would be a victory remembered for generations,” he added.

Yesha Council chairman Shlomo Ne’eman demanded that the tide be turned, saying: “The Palestinian Authority is waging a war against us, and only action with the same force as in Gaza will eliminate all threats throughout Judea and Samaria.

“We call on the government of Israel and its leader to on the one hand allow the development of settlements without restrictions and on the other hand to go to war to eliminate the vile enemy. Jewish blood will not be spilled in vain,” added Ne’eman.

Separately on Thursday, a Palestinian suspect was arrested after refusing to be checked by IDF soldiers at the Bekaa crossing and subsequently driving through the barrier.

A chase ensued and soldiers apprehended the suspect.

There were no injuries to Israeli forces and the suspect was transferred for questioning.

The Bekaa crossing is located on Route 90 in the northern Jordan Valley, near the village of Tayasir in Samaria.

On Friday, IDF Sgt. First Class Ilay David Garfinkel, 21, was killed and six other soldiers wounded in a shootout with a Palestinian terrorist in Samaria.

The attack began when the terrorist, identified as Mujahid Barakat Mansour, opened fire with a sniper rifle on an Israeli minibus traveling near Dolev, located west of Ramallah in the Binyamin region.

No one was injured in the attack, but during the ensuing manhunt, Israeli forces engaged Mansour in gun battles that lasted several hours, resulting in the casualties.

The IDF deployed additional troops to the area along with aerial support, including a combat helicopter, and the terrorist was eventually killed by a missile strike.

Start Walking: Democrat-run NYC Approves $15 Toll on Cars Entering Manhattan

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Shutterstock

Simon  Kent(Breitbart)

Democrat-run New York is poised to become the first U.S. city to hit drivers with punitive tolls after transit officials on Wednesday approved a $15 fee for most motorists headed to the busiest part of Manhattan.

AP reports members of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority board approved the congestion pricing impost, expected to go into effect in June.

The board waved through only minor changes to a plan presented to the public months ago while rejecting all requests for exceptions by dozens of groups of commuters.

 

The vote authorizes a $15 toll on most commuter passenger vehicles each and every time they drive into Manhattan south of 60th Street, a zone that’s south of Central Park, during daytime hours.

Tolls are higher for larger vehicles, and lower for late-night entries into the city, as well as for motorcycles.

Such schemes have been implemented in London, Stockholm, Milan and Singapore where private motorists are routinely punished for entering the busiest and most popular parts of those cities.

Pushback has been swift and targeted in central London by locals furious at the charges imposed as they go about their daily business.

To enter Manhattan, commuters from other states and boroughs already pay around $15 in bridge and tunnel tolls — and the congestion fee will come on top of that.

Daily parking costs already run $25 to $50 in the congestion zone, which includes a dozen neighborhoods in Manhattan that are south of 60th street.

If the plan survives anticipated legal challenges, New York will become the first U.S. city to implement a congestion pricing scheme.

In 2017, Virginia officials implemented a toll system to reduce congestion during rush hour on Interstate 66 near Washington, DC.

Trump to Join Wake Honoring Slain NYPD Officer as Biden Attends Fundraiser

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This photo provided by the New York City Police Department shows police officer Jonathan Diller, who was killed in the line of duty on Monday, March 25, 2024, in New York. Former President Donald Trump will attend Thursday's wake for Diller, who was gunned down in the line of duty. (New York City Police Department via AP)

Simon Kent

Former President Donald Trump will join Thursday’s wake of a New York City police officer gunned down in the line of duty as the presumed Republican 2024 candidate makes crime in Democrat cities a focus of his third tilt at the White House.

As Trump honors the fallen, President Joe Biden will also be in New York attending a fundraiser with Democratic ex-presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

 

 

AP reports the visitation for Officer Jonathan Diller, who was fatally shot during a traffic stop on Monday, will be held in suburban Massapequa.

Police said 31-year-old Diller was shot below his bulletproof vest while approaching an illegally parked car in Queens.

This photo provided by the New York City Police Department shows police officer Jonathan Diller, who was killed in the line of duty on Monday, March 25, 2024, in New York. Former President Donald Trump will attend Thursday’s wake for Diller. (New York City Police Department via AP)

Diller, who was married and had a 1-year-old son, was rushed to a hospital where he died.

Trump has long deplored crime in heavily Democrat-run cities and wants to immunize police officers from lawsuits for potential misconduct as they tackle the problem.

Trump’s campaign did not offer more details about his appearance or whether he planned to speak.

“President Trump is moved by the invitation to join NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller’s family and colleagues as they deal with his senseless and tragic death,” Trump campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said in a statement.