Joe Biden’s brief stint in a Trump 2024 hat ignited a firestorm with Kamala Harris’ campaign. The incident, laid bare in a new book, exposed deep rifts between the president and his vice president. It’s a classic case of loyalty tested and egos bruised.
A new book by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson reveals Biden’s hat stunt at a 9/11 event in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, as the tipping point for Harris’ campaign to sideline him, as the Daily Mail reports.
Harris, running for president after Biden’s July exit, saw his actions as a betrayal. The book, Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again, paints a picture of mistrust and clashing ambitions.
Biden’s decision to drop out of the presidential race came with strings attached. He initially resisted endorsing Harris immediately, proposing a week’s delay. His team’s draft statement omitted her endorsement, a move that screamed hesitation.
Harris wasn’t having it. “That open airtime will be filled with speculation,” she warned Biden, per the book, pushing for an immediate endorsement. Twenty-seven minutes after announcing his exit, Biden caved, offering tepid support: “It’s been the best decision I’ve made.”
Even with the endorsement, doubts lingered among Biden’s aides. Some believed Harris couldn’t win, a sentiment that fueled her distrust. She viewed Biden’s team as saboteurs, assigning her toxic issues like the migrant crisis to tank her brand.
Harris guarded her political image fiercely. She often rebuffed Biden’s requests for help, prioritizing her narrative. The campaign’s early days were marked by this tension, setting the stage for the Shanksville debacle.
At the 9/11 commemoration, Biden mingled with firefighters and an elderly Trump supporter. When asked to autograph a Trump 2024 hat, he obliged, then wore it briefly to cheers. The Trump campaign gleefully posted, “Thanks for the support, Joe!”
Harris was livid. “What is he doing? This is completely unhelpful,” she fumed to her team, per the book. The moment cemented her decision to distance her campaign from Biden’s unpredictable antics.
The Harris team pivoted hard, emphasizing her leadership while sidelining Biden. His continued gaffes didn’t help. In October, he told supporters, “We got to lock him up,” referring to Trump, handing Trump’s team ammunition to cry “lawfare.”
Biden’s missteps kept coming. Later that month, he called Trump supporters “garbage,” a remark Trump’s campaign branded an insult to working-class Americans. Trump seized the moment, comparing it to Clinton’s “deplorable” jab while rolling up to a rally in a branded garbage truck. “That’s terrible. Remember Hillary?” Trump quipped at the rally, milking Biden’s blunder. The Harris campaign watched in frustration as Biden’s words overshadowed their messaging. Actions, it seems, have consequences.
From the start, Harris’ team grappled with Biden’s baggage. His eagerness to campaign for her clashed with their strategy to keep him at arm’s length. The Shanksville hat incident was merely the loudest note in a discordant symphony.
The book highlights Harris’ resolve to carve her path. She saw Biden’s team as more hindrance than help, a group more loyal to their boss than to her vision. This mistrust shaped her campaign’s insular approach.
Biden’s hat stunt wasn’t just a gaffe; it was a symbol of his inability to step back. Harris’ team, already wary, used it to justify cutting him out. The move was less about spite and more about survival in a brutal political arena.
The saga underscores a timeless truth: loyalty in politics is a fragile thing. Harris and Biden, once allies, found their ambitions at odds. Tapper and Thompson’s book serves as a stark reminder that even the best-laid plans can unravel when egos collide.
A Mexican navy ship slammed into the Brooklyn Bridge over the weekend, leaving two dead and 19 injured, as Fox News reports, and the Saturday night collision sparked immediate finger-pointing from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Though he is quick to blame a Trump-era policy, but the Coast Guard isn’t buying it.
The Cuauhtémoc, carrying 277 people, slammed into a portion of the iconic bridge, shocking bystanders, and New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed the power failure as the cause. This tragedy unfolded under the city’s twinkling skyline, but the political fallout is stealing the spotlight.
Schumer, briefed on the crash, wasted no time issuing a Sunday press release. He suggested a hiring freeze by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) at Homeland Security crippled the Coast Guard’s Vessel Traffic System (VTS). Here’s a classic case of a politician smelling an opportunity to dunk on Trump in real time.
“There are indications that this service called the VTS may not have been fully or adequately functional,” Schumer claimed. His insinuation? DOGE’s freeze left the Coast Guard shorthanded, possibly causing the crash. Sounds dramatic, but the facts don’t back his theatrics.
The Coast Guard fired back, stating the VTS was “fully functional” and operating normally. No other ships were involved, so the system wasn’t juggling multiple vessels. Schumer’s narrative of a bumbling, understaffed Coast Guard collapses under scrutiny.
“We know that the Trump administration has been meddling in U.S. Coast Guard operations,” Schumer doubled down. Meddling? The Coast Guard’s response suggests they were doing their job just fine, thank you very much.
The Coast Guard launched a crew from Station New York immediately after the crash. They set up a temporary safety zone and coordinated with NYPD, FDNY, and NYC DOT. No chaos here -- just professionals handling a crisis.
Meanwhile, Schumer’s still harping on DOGE, claiming it “may have limited the ability of the Coast Guard to fully staff up.” He’s painting a picture of a hollowed-out agency, but the Coast Guard’s actions tell a different story. Actions, not press releases, reveal competence.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) jumped in, announcing a “go-team” to investigate on Sunday. They’ll dig into why the Cuauhtémoc lost power and smashed into the bridge. Expect answers, not speculation, from their report.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the crash on X at 1:15 a.m. “Our solidarity and support go out to their families,” she said. Her response was somber, focused on the human toll, not political point-scoring.
Sheinbaum confirmed the Secretariat of the Navy, with local authorities, is tending to the injured. The Mexican Ambassador and Consulate General in New York are also assisting. This is international cooperation, not a blame game.
Back to Schumer: “If this were the case, the Brooklyn Bridge accident could be a national harbinger.” A harbinger? His rhetoric is dialed up to 11, but the Coast Guard’s already debunked his VTS theory.
Schumer’s press release reeks of opportunism, leveraging a tragedy to attack Trump’s policies. The Coast Guard’s statement, though, is a bucket of cold water on his claims. Facts trump feelings, senator.
With 277 people aboard, the Cuauhtémoc’s crash was a disaster, but the response was textbook. The Coast Guard, NYPD, FDNY, and NYC DOT worked seamlessly. Schumer’s DOGE obsession seems more about headlines than truth.
The NTSB’s investigation will clarify what went wrong, but one thing’s clear: Schumer’s rush to pin this on DOGE doesn’t hold water. Politicians love a crisis to exploit, but the Coast Guard’s competence shines through. Turns out, effective governance doesn’t need a press conference.
FBI Director Kash Patel just dropped a bombshell, announcing the agency’s exodus from its crumbling Washington, D.C., headquarters.
In an interview set to air in full over the weekend, Patel revealed plans to scatter 1,500 employees across the country, citing safety concerns at the J. Edgar Hoover Building, as the New York Post reports. Looks like the FBI’s finally waking up to the fact that concrete shouldn’t rain on pedestrians.
Patel’s plan yanks 1,500 workers from the Hoover Building, a brutalist eyesore on Pennsylvania Avenue, to spread them nationwide with no set timeline or new HQ location. The move aims to tackle crime where it actually happens, not just in DC’s bureaucratic bubble. Redistribution over the next three, six, and nine months is set to shake things up.
The Hoover Building, finished in 1975 after a decade of construction, sits on prime D.C. real estate between the White House and Capitol. Nets now drape its facade to catch falling concrete, a fitting metaphor for a government that’s been dropping the ball for years. Patel didn’t spell out the hazards, but the visuals speak louder than words.
“This FBI is leaving the Hoover Building because this building is unsafe for our workforce,” Patel told Maria Bartiromo. That’s a rare admission of reality from a federal official, but don’t hold your breath for details on what’s crumbling besides the concrete. The lack of a new HQ plan suggests this is more about action than optics.
Patel’s not just moving bodies; he’s aiming to inspire. “We want the American men and women to know if you’re going to come work at the premier law enforcement agency in the world, we’re going to give you a building that’s commensurate with that,” he said. Translation: no more dodging debris to serve justice.
The FBI’s 38,000-strong workforce, when fully staffed, has about 11,000 employees within 50 miles of DC. That’s a third of the agency’s muscle, yet, as Patel noted, “A third of the crime doesn’t happen here.” Finally, someone’s doing the math and sending agents where they’re needed.
Back in 2013, Donald Trump, then a private citizen, eyed the Hoover Building for a private project, offering to build a new FBI office in exchange. By 2018, as president, he called it “one of the ugliest buildings in the city.” Brutalist architecture’s charm didn’t win him over.
Trump’s dislike wasn’t just aesthetic. In March 2025, he pushed for a new FBI headquarters right where the Hoover Building stands, stressing its proximity to the DOJ. “The FBI and the DOJ have to be near each other,” he said, proving location still matters in the fight against crime.
Trump also axed a Biden-era plan to move the FBI to Greenbelt, Maryland, after an inspector general’s report exposed a shady site selection process. A General Services Administration official, previously tied to WMATA, which owned the Greenbelt site, overruled a three-person panel’s preference for Springfield, Virginia. Smells like the swamp’s still draining.
Patel’s relocation plan sends agents to every state, a move to boost recruitment and tackle violent crime head-on. “Every state is getting a plus-up,” he told Bartiromo, promising a supplemental supply of agents. It’s a refreshing pivot from D.C.’s ivory towers to America’s heartland.
With 1,500 employees on the move, the FBI’s betting on inspiring new blood. Patel said this will “inspire folks in America to become intel analysts and agents,” ready to fight crime nationwide. Bold words, but let’s see if the FBI can trade its desk jockeys for street warriors. The Hoover Building’s prime real estate might tempt developers, but no plans for its future were shared. Its block-long presence between DC’s power hubs makes it a hot commodity. Whoever snags it, better bring a hard hat.
Patel’s logic is simple: crime isn’t confined to D.C., so neither should the FBI. “In the next three, six, nine months we’re going to be doing that hard,” he vowed. That’s a timeline even bureaucrats can’t ignore, assuming they don’t trip over the red tape.
The FBI’s current staffing isn’t at full strength, making this redistribution even gutsier. Moving a chunk of the 11,000 D.C.-area employees could stretch resources thin, but it’s a calculated risk. Patel’s betting on quality over quantity to get the job done.
This shake-up signals a broader push to prioritize results over appearances. The FBI is leaving behind a decaying symbol of bureaucracy for a leaner, meaner approach to law enforcement. If Patel pulls this off, it’s a win for common sense over woke posturing.
Thieves in Slovenia have sunk to new lows, hacking off a bronze statue of Melania Trump at the ankles and making off with it.
The heist, which reeks of petty political vendetta, happened in Sevnica, Mrs. Trump's former hometown, as the New York Post reports, and this isn’t just theft -- it’s a slap at a woman who rose from Communist Yugoslavia to global prominence.
In a single brazen act on May 13, a bronze statue honoring Melania Trump was stolen after it was severed at the ankles in a field near Sevnica, Slovenia. The statue, anchored to a tree stump, was a tribute to the hometown hero born in Novo Mesto in 1970. Police were alerted the same day and launched an investigation, but the culprits remain at large.
The statue was the work of American artist Brad Downey, erected after a wooden predecessor was torched by arsonists in 2020. That earlier vandalism was bad enough, but this theft takes the cake, cutting Melania’s likeness off at the feet like some woke guillotine. It’s hard to see this as anything but a targeted attack on her legacy.
“The theft was reported on 13 May and immediately police officers visited the crime scene and launched an investigation,” a police spokesperson said. Well, good luck to them -- Slovenia’s not exactly crawling with bronze statue fences. The real question is whether this was a local grudge or a political hit job.
Downey, the artist behind the statue, isn’t holding his breath for justice. “I’m a bit sad that it’s gone,” he said. Sad? Try infuriated -- another piece of art honoring a conservative icon gets trashed, and the world just shrugs.
The artist is not wrong to suspect deeper motives. “My feeling is that it has something to do with the new election [of Donald Trump], but who knows, right?” he said. Oh, we know -- nothing screams “tolerance” like defacing a statue of a former first lady right after her husband’s political comeback.
Melania Trump, born in 1970, grew up in Sevnica when it was still part of Communist Yugoslavia -- a place where dreaming big wasn’t exactly encouraged. She defied those odds, becoming a global figure, only to have her hometown tributes repeatedly vandalized. It’s almost like success invites resentment from the perpetually aggrieved.
The wooden statue that preceded the bronze one was set ablaze in 2020, a fiery middle finger to Melania’s achievements. Arsonists didn’t just destroy art -- they tried to erase a symbol of aspiration. Funny how the “progressive” crowd loves to torch what they can’t control.
Now, the bronze replacement has been stolen, cut down like a trophy for some coward’s mantle. The thief’s hacksaw wasn’t just slicing metal -- it was carving out another chunk of respect for a woman who’s weathered more than her share of hate. Actions have consequences, and this one’s a disgrace.
The statue stood in a field, anchored to a tree stump -- a humble but proud nod to Melania’s roots. Cutting it off at the ankles feels symbolic, doesn’t it? Like trying to hobble the spirit of a woman who’s spent decades standing tall against critics. Sevnica’s loss isn’t just a statue; it’s a piece of its history. Melania’s journey from a small town to the White House put this place on the map. Yet some locals -- or outsiders -- seem hell-bent on erasing that pride.
The police investigation is ongoing, but don’t hold your breath for a quick resolution. Thieves who go to the trouble of sawing through bronze aren’t exactly leaving calling cards. Still, the truth has a way of surfacing, even in a world that loves to hide it.
This isn’t the first time Melania’s likeness has been targeted, and it probably won’t be the last. The 2020 arson was a wake-up call; this theft is a screaming alarm. When will people realize that tearing down symbols doesn’t erase the person they represent?
Brad Downey’s creation was more than art -- it was a statement of resilience. Replacing a burned wooden statue with a bronze one was a defiant act, a refusal to let vandals win. Too bad the mob doesn’t appreciate defiance when it’s not their own.
Melania Trump deserves better than having her legacy hacked apart in her hometown. If this theft is tied to political grudges, as Downey suspects, it’s just another reminder: the left’s “tolerance” stops where conservative icons begin. Slovenia -- and the world -- could use a refresher on respecting achievement over ideology.
Kamala Harris’ aides orchestrated a peculiar “mock soiree” to prep her for a high-profile Washington dinner party.
In spring 2022, the then-vice president’s team held a dry run, sans wine, to practice her social graces for an upcoming event, and this revelation, detailed in a forthcoming book, paints a picture of a politician uneasy in elite social settings, as the New York Post reports.
The book Original Sin by Alex Thompson and Jake Tapper exposes tensions between Harris’ team and Biden loyalists, highlighting her struggles with political assignments and a staged social rehearsal. The mock soiree was designed to prepare Harris for a salon-style dinner hosted by media mogul David Bradley. The owner of National Journal and holder of a stake in The Atlantic, Bradley welcomed Harris to his home for the event.
No awkward moments were reported at Bradley’s dinner, suggesting the rehearsal paid off. The mock event, however, underscores a cautious approach by Harris’ aides to ensure she navigated the social scene flawlessly. It was a calculated move to polish her image among Washington’s elite.
Friction between Harris’ staff and Biden’s team began before they even took office. In June 2019, Harris criticized Joe Biden on the issue of integration and busing during a Democratic Party primary debate, upsetting Jill Biden. This early clash set the stage for ongoing distrust between the two camps.
By fall 2021, Harris’ team was already at odds with Biden’s advisers, labeling some as “the cabal of the unhelpful.” Key Biden allies, including White House deputy chief of staff Jen O’Malley Dillon and first lady Jill Biden's office, were seen as obstacles by Harris’ aides. This internal strife complicated her early tenure as vice president.
In May 2021, Harris was tasked with leading the National Space Council, a Cabinet-level role. Yet, her team’s efforts, like a space exploration video featuring child actors who auditioned for their parts, drew scrutiny for being overly staged. These missteps fueled perceptions of Harris as disconnected from the administration’s core priorities.
Joe Biden’s 2020 campaign promise to pick a female vice president narrowed his options to Harris and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Biden confidant Ron Klain championed Harris for the role, believing she could unify the ticket. However, some Biden loyalists later regretted the choice, favoring Whitmer’s work ethic.
“Many on the Biden team felt that Harris didn’t put in the work,” the book notes, reflecting buyer’s remorse among some aides. Harris often avoided tough political tasks, unlike Biden, who embraced such challenges as vice president. Her reluctance to headline events like the Gridiron Club dinner further frustrated Biden’s team.
The book claims Harris “was also just not a very nice person,” according to some Biden insiders. This perception deepened the divide between her staff and Biden’s, creating a toxic dynamic within the administration. Harris’ aides, meanwhile, felt sidelined by key Biden operatives.
The spring 2022 mock soiree was a response to Harris’ unease in high-stakes social settings. Her aides, aware of her shaky standing with Biden’s team, went to great lengths to ensure she shone at Bradley’s dinner. The dry run, with no wine served, was a meticulous effort to refine her public persona.
Harris’ team saw the dinner as a chance to bolster her image among Washington’s power brokers. Bradley’s influence in media circles made the event a critical opportunity for Harris to network. The absence of reported gaffes at the dinner suggests their preparation worked. Yet, the need for such a rehearsal raises questions about Harris’ readiness for the vice presidency’s demands. Her team’s focus on optics, from the mock soiree to the space video, reflects a broader strategy to mask her weaknesses.
Original Sin, set for release on May 20, offers a candid look at Harris’ challenges as vice president. Authors Thompson and Tapper pull no punches, detailing her strained relationships with Biden’s inner circle. The book’s revelations could reignite debates about her leadership style.
O’Malley Dillon, once a source of friction, later chaired Harris’ campaign after Biden’s exit from the 2024 race in late July. This shift highlights the complex dynamics between Harris and Biden’s teams, even as they navigated new political realities. The book’s insights into these tensions are timely and revealing.
The mock soiree, while a footnote, encapsulates the broader narrative of Harris’ vice presidency: a struggle to fit into Washington’s elite circles while battling internal rivalries. For a nation craving authentic leadership, such anecdotes fuel skepticism about her ability to connect. As Original Sin hits shelves, expect its claims to spark fierce discussion.
A string of suspicious fires in North London has thrust Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s family into a chilling counter-terror investigation.
On May 8, a Toyota Rav 4, once owned by Starmer but sold to a neighbor, was torched just yards from his £2 million townhouse. The blaze, which turned the night sky orange, left the vehicle a charred wreck, an incident that formed the early basis of the ongoing terror probe, as The Sun reports.
Three days later, on May 11, first responders tackled a small fire at the front door of a house converted into flats in Islington, also linked to Starmer. The following night, another fire erupted at Starmer’s townhouse, currently rented to his sister-in-law and her family. Counter-terror police are probing these incidents, suspecting they may be connected.
The fires, including two at properties tied to Starmer, are believed to stem from a personal grudge against the prime minister, though the motive remains unclear. A 21-year-old man was arrested early on May 13, on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. Police are treating all three incidents as suspicious, with inquiries ongoing.
The car fire on May 8 startled residents, with neighbor Dan Nicholson, 36, describing a “loud noise” and a “dramatic” scene as flames engulfed the Toyota. He called the police, and firefighters quickly arrived. Nicholson noted the incident felt eerily similar to later fires, raising fears of a targeted campaign.
The Toyota, previously driven by Starmer, had a known history, including a 2020 collision with a Deliveroo driver in Camden. By May 2025, it belonged to a neighbor, yet its proximity to Starmer’s home fueled speculation of a deliberate attack. Linda Perry, a retired dinner lady, recalled the “frightening” blaze, worried other cars might ignite. Shaken, said she heard screams of “fire” around 3 a.m. and was stunned by the bright flames.
On May 11, the fire at the Islington property, notably linked to Starmer, damaged the front door of a converted house. Authorities suspect an accelerant was used, a tactic repeated in the subsequent townhouse fire. The Islington blaze was small but again raised alarms due to its connection to the prime minister.
The most brazen attack came on May 12 at Starmer’s four-bedroom Tufnell Park townhouse, rented out since he moved to 10 Downing Street. A “loud bang” woke residents, with an anonymous neighbor describing the sound as “glass shattering.” The fire singed the doorway but was swiftly controlled.
Firefighters were called at 1:11 a.m., followed by police at 1:35 a.m., who cordoned off the area as a “crime scene.” No injuries were reported, but the London Fire Brigade confirmed damage to the townhouse’s front. Neighbors reported police searching gardens for a possible “projectile” after the blaze.
Counter-terror police are investigating due to Starmer’s status, though they stress it’s a procedural step. A Met Police spokesperson said officers are examining whether the May 8 vehicle fire, the May 11 Islington fire, and the May 12 townhouse fire are linked. All are deemed suspicious, with no clear motive yet established.
The rental of the Tufnell Park property to Starmer’s sister-in-law is declared in the ministerial register, but its income falls below the £10,000 threshold for the MPs’ register. This detail, while minor, underscores Starmer’s ties to the targeted properties. The investigation remains focused on the arsonist’s intent.
The arrested 21-year-old remains in custody, with police probing his potential grudge against Starmer. Anonymous residents, like a 58-year-old tech worker, described waking to “flashing lights” and “sirens” on May 12, with forensics teams scouring the scene. The heavy police presence signaled the gravity of the situation.
Charles Grant, 66, a resident, expressed unease at the escalating incidents, noting police activity had disrupted the neighborhood. The fires, particularly those targeting Starmer-linked properties, have left residents on edge. Many fear the arsonist’s motives may extend beyond a personal vendetta.
The use of accelerants in house fires points to premeditation, heightening concerns about public safety. Both the Islington and Tufnell Park properties saw their front doors doused before being set alight, a chilling hallmark of the attacks. Police are urging calm while pursuing leads.
For working-class families in North London, these incidents underscore a broader unease about security and unchecked crime. The seeming targeting of a prime minister’s properties, even those that are currently rented out, raises questions about vulnerability in an era of rising tensions. As investigations continue, the community braces for answers.
A 33-year-old man’s life was tragically cut short by Arizona’s brutal heat on a popular hiking trail when, on Sunday, May 11, the individual succumbed to a heat-related medical emergency while trekking the Wave Cave Trail in Gold Canyon, roughly 40 miles east of Phoenix.
This emergency response and the hiker's demise serves as a grim reminder of nature’s unforgiving power when common-sense precautions are ignored, as ABC News reports.
Five hikers, including the deceased, were on the trail for about six hours before disaster struck. A 1st alarm mountain rescue call came in just before 1 p.m., as temperatures neared 100 degrees. The group, battling the scorching sun, was ill-prepared for the dangers of Arizona’s summer heat.
The 33-year-old man suffered a medical emergency directly linked to the oppressive heat. Civilians in his hiking party desperately attempted CPR before professional help arrived. Despite their efforts, the situation was dire by the time rescue teams reached the scene.
Rescue teams continued CPR upon arrival, pouring every ounce of effort into saving the man. Tragically, their attempts were in vain, and he did not survive. The Pinal County Medical Examiner will determine the official cause of death, though heat is the clear culprit.
The four other hikers, shaken but alive, were assisted down the mountain. They refused hospital transport, likely grateful to escape the trail’s deadly grip. No foul play is suspected, according to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, putting to rest any whispers of conspiracy.
Officials urged the public to steer clear of the Wave Cave Trail for the rest of Sunday. Arizona’s summers, with temperatures often soaring past 110 degrees, are no place for reckless adventuring. Heat exhaustion or stroke can strike in under an hour, especially during the day’s hottest window.
The Superstition Fire and Medical District noted that most trail deaths occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when the sun is at its peak, mercilessly baking anyone foolish enough to ignore warnings. Sunday’s tragedy unfolded squarely within this deadly timeframe. “Tragically this mountain rescue resulted in one fatality,” an official from the Superstition Fire and Medical District stated. Those words carry the weight of experience, with responders having seen too many lives lost to preventable mistakes.
“Unfortunately, the patient did not survive,” the district representative added, a stark acknowledgment of the outcome. The heat, not some far-fetched villain, was the enemy here. It’s a natural force that doesn’t care about ideology or excuses.
Heat-related deaths are a recurring problem on Arizona’s trails, yet some still treat warnings as merely optional. The Superstition Fire and Medical District emphasized that symptoms like dizziness or nausea demand immediate action. Ignoring these signs can lead to catastrophic consequences, as this incident proves.
“If you feel dizzy, nauseous, stop sweating, or become confused, get help immediately,” the district advised. This isn’t woke overreach; it’s practical advice rooted in saving lives. Too many hikers, caught up in bravado or ignorance, push past these red flags.
The district’s final plea was simple: “Please stay safe and plan wisely.” They underscored that no hike is worth a life, a sentiment that resonates with traditional values of responsibility and self-reliance. Risking it all for a photo or fleeting thrill is a choice that betrays common sense.
This tragedy highlights the importance of respecting nature’s limits, especially in a state like Arizona. The working-class families who cherish these trails for recreation deserve better than to lose loved ones to preventable deaths. Small-town communities like Gold Canyon feel these losses deeply.
Skepticism of elitist mandates doesn’t mean rejecting basic survival wisdom. Hiking in triple-digit heat without proper preparation isn’t freedom -- it’s folly. The American spirit thrives on grit, but it also demands respect for reality.
Let this man’s death be a wake-up call, not just another statistic. Plan hikes for cooler hours, carry water, and heed warnings. Faith, family, and community are what anchor us -- don’t throw them away on a reckless gamble with the desert sun.
Donald Trump’s Middle East jaunt next week proves son-in-law Jared Kushner’s still pulling strings, despite dodging the spotlight, CNN reported.
President Trump’s hitting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE to ink economic deals, with Kushner quietly steering the ship on expanding the Abraham Accords.
Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, built tight bonds with Arab leaders during the first term, making him the go-to guy for these talks. He’s not boarding Air Force One, but his WhatsApp chats with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman keep the lines hot. His role’s been under wraps until now, which is classic Kushner—working the shadows, not chasing headlines.
“When it comes to the Middle East, Jared is an expert,” a senior administration official gushed to CNN. Sounds like someone’s drinking the Kushner Kool-Aid, but his track record with the 2020 UAE-Israel deal gives him cred. The woke crowd might scoff, but results don’t lie.
Kushner’s advising Trump’s team, especially on sweet-talking Saudi leaders, though no deal’s expected to close during the trip. Face-to-face meetings are the goal, and Kushner’s coaching the playbook. Meanwhile, the Gaza war’s thrown a wrench in the region’s vibe since Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attacks.
The Abraham Accords, a Trump-era win, are Kushner’s baby, and he’s pushing to get more Arab nations to normalize with Israel. Saudi’s Crown Prince, however, says no dice without a Palestinian statehood path and a Gaza ceasefire. Good luck with that when Israel’s gearing up for a fiercer fight post-trip, per Netanyahu’s team.
Trump’s trip is all about dollar signs—economic agreements to boost Saudi, Qatari, and UAE cash flow into America. “That is a topic of discussion,” a White House official told CNN, as if it’s not the whole point. The left might cry “capitalism bad,” but securing investments isn’t a crime.
Kushner’s also mentoring Steve Witkoff, Trump’s Middle East envoy, who’s juggling talks with Russia and Iran too. “He’s been Witkoff’s biggest champion,” an official said, hyping Kushner’s knack for navigating Arab egos. Witkoff’s tagging along, unlike Kushner, who prefers his low-key dealmaking.
The White House sees Kushner as the golden ticket to Middle East wins, even without a formal title. He’s been spotted at Witkoff’s swearing-in and chatting with Marco Rubio, interim National Security Adviser. Clearly, Kushner’s not retired—he’s just allergic to org charts.
The Gaza ceasefire from Trump’s first term? Dead and buried. Hamas’s attacks and Israel’s response have Arab neighbors side-eyeing each other, complicating Kushner’s normalization dreams. Actions have consequences, and the region’s paying the price.
Trump’s rolling deep with a delegation including Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. “There were a lot of people who wanted to be a part of this trip,” an official bragged. No kidding—everyone wants a piece of the action.
Kushner’s post-Washington gig at Affinity Partners, backed by Gulf wealth funds, keeps him cozy with the region’s elite. His frequent calls with the Saudi Crown Prince aren’t just chit-chat—they’re strategic. The man’s playing chess while others are stuck on checkers.
“There’s a way to potentially solve that part for the Saudis,” an official said, crediting Kushner’s out-of-the-box thinking on normalization. The woke brigade might call it meddling, but in the real world, it’s called diplomacy. Kushner’s not here for applause—he’s here for results.
Witkoff’s bullish, saying, “We think we’ll have some or a lot of announcements very, very shortly.” That’s the spirit, but let’s not hold our breath with Gaza burning and Saudi playing hardball. Optimism’s great, but reality’s a tougher negotiator.
Kushner’s happy staying off the payroll, operating “behind the scenes until he has something successful,” per an official. That’s the MAGA way—get it done, no fanfare needed. While the left obsesses over optics, Kushner’s rewriting the Middle East playbook, one quiet move at a time.
Joe Biden’s recent media blitz is stirring unrest among Democrats who see his spotlight-grabbing as a drag on their party’s recovery.
The former president’s high-profile interviews this week, including a prominent appearance on The View, have sparked criticism from party insiders desperate to move on from his legacy, with many arguing that his focus on personal redemption overshadows the need to rebuild trust with everyday Americans, as The Hill reports.
Biden’s return to the public eye began with a Tuesday interview on the BBC. There, he took aim at President Donald Trump’s foreign policy, particularly his approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The criticism set the tone for a week of media engagements that some Democrats view as counterproductive.
On Thursday, Biden and former first lady Jill Biden appeared on The View, marking his first major U.S. post-presidency interview. He called Trump’s second administration’s initial period the “worst 100 days” of any presidency. The choice of The View was seen as strategic, given its diverse audience, but it drew mixed reactions from party strategists.
During his appearance on The View, Biden pushed back against claims of mental decline during his presidency. He dismissed such reports as “wrong,” denying accusations fueled by recent books about his final year in office. These books have raised questions about his acuity, which some Democrats fear could haunt future party candidates.
Jill Biden echoed her husband’s defense, insisting that critics “were not in the White House with us.” Her comments aimed to counter narratives questioning Biden’s fitness for office. However, the couple’s focus on refuting these claims has frustrated Democrats eager for forward-looking leadership.
Biden accepted blame for Democratic Party losses, admitting, “I was in charge, and he won.” This rare acknowledgment of responsibility resonated with some, but others saw it as too little, too late. Critics argue he fails to fully own the decision to run again, a choice they believe cost the party dearly.
Democratic Party strategist Anthony Coley criticized Biden’s media appearances, arguing they force the party to “fight an old war.” He believes Biden’s interviews contrast poorly with Trump, failing to inspire independents or energize the base. Coley’s blunt assessment reflects a growing sentiment among Democrats ready to turn the page.
“I don’t know who’s asking for this,” said strategist Jon Reinish, highlighting the party’s desire for fresh faces. He pointed to a younger generation of Democrats unburdened by past controversies. Reinish’s comments underscore the challenge Biden faces in remaining relevant without overshadowing emerging leaders.
Some strategists urged Biden to emulate former President Jimmy Carter’s post-presidency model. Carter focused on community work, which rebuilt his public image through actions rather than words. Steve Schale, a Democratic Party operative, suggested Biden “get out and work in the community” to highlight his administration’s achievements.
Schale emphasized Biden’s humanity as his strongest asset, urging him to focus on human interactions. “Let the images of his human interactions and the stories they tell rebuild the brand,” Schale said. He believes such efforts would resonate more than media punditry.
An unnamed strategist echoed this, pressing Biden to “own up” to his role in Democratic Party setbacks. They expressed frustration that Biden avoids acknowledging his decision to seek re-election. This reluctance, they argue, deepens the party’s struggle to move forward.
Another strategist warned that Biden’s narrative around his mental acuity could impact Democratic Party prospects in future races. They predicted that candidates in 2028 might face scrutiny over their stance on Biden’s final years. This lingering issue complicates the party’s efforts to redefine itself.
Not all Democrats oppose Biden’s reemergence. Supporter Antjuan Seawright praised Biden’s honesty in addressing his presidency’s challenges. “I thought that was good for Joe Biden to just be honest and open,” Seawright said, defending Biden’s continued relevance. Seawright argued that Biden remains a valuable asset to the nation and the party. “Joe Biden can still be helpful to the country, to the Congress, the Constitution, and the community,” he said.
Yet, the divide within the Democratic Party is clear. While Biden’s defenders see his experience as a strength, critics argue his media focus undermines the party’s need for renewal. As Democrats grapple with their future, Biden’s role remains a contentious issue, with traditional values of community and accountability at the heart of the debate.
Iran’s chilling assassination plot against former President Donald Trump reveals the dangerous reach of its terror network, according to a former U.S. official. John Bolton, who served as National Security Adviser under Trump, exposed the regime’s retaliatory scheme on Sky News’ The World, linking it to the 2020 killing of a top Iranian commander. This unprecedented threat against American leaders demands a strong response to protect national sovereignty.
As reported by The Sun, Bolton warned that Iran’s terror network spans Europe and the United States, targeting former U.S. officials. The assassination list, he claims, is retaliation for the U.S. strike that killed Qasem Soleimani, a key Iranian military figure. Soleimani led the Quds Force, which orchestrated Iran’s operations abroad.
Soleimani, designated a terrorist by the U.S., was a powerful commander whose death in 2020 provoked Iran’s vow of vengeance. Bolton emphasized that Trump tops Iran’s hit list, with himself and other former cabinet officials also targeted. These threats stem from actions taken in their official duties, not personal disputes.
Iran’s terror network, Bolton revealed, is alarmingly sophisticated, operating across the Middle East and Europe. The regime allegedly employs Eastern European criminal gangs to carry out its plots. This global reach underscores the need for vigilance against foreign threats on American soil.
In 2022, the U.S. Justice Department issued an arrest warrant for Shahram Poursafi, an Iranian national accused of plotting to assassinate Bolton. This incident highlights Iran’s willingness to act on its threats. Bolton stressed that such actions against senior U.S. officials could be considered an act of war.
“I think Iran’s terror network is quite extensive,” Bolton said, pointing to its operations in Western nations. He warned that the regime’s actions are not mere rhetoric but a clear danger. The targeting of American leaders is a direct challenge to U.S. strength.
Bolton, a vocal critic of Trump, confirmed that the former president is Iran’s primary target. “President Trump is at the top of their list,” he stated, emphasizing the gravity of the threat. Other former cabinet officials also face similar dangers, marking an unprecedented escalation.
“Other former cabinet officials are targets of Iran,” Bolton noted, calling the situation unparalleled. He argued that these threats are not about dissent but retribution for official U.S. policies. This distinction underscores the regime’s hostility toward America’s leadership.
Bolton himself has been a target, requiring a security detail for protection. However, Trump withdrew Bolton’s Secret Service protection on his inauguration day. This decision, Bolton argued, sends a dangerous signal to America’s adversaries.
“On what one might have thought was a pretty busy inauguration day, President Trump had the time to cancel my Secret Service protection,” Bolton remarked. He has since arranged his security measures. The move raises questions about prioritizing personal grudges over national security.
Bolton warned that withdrawing protection weakens America’s stance against hostile regimes. “It sends a very bad signal to adversaries of the United States around the world,” he said. Such actions could embolden Iran and other enemies.
The former adviser also cautioned that targeting former officials could affect decision-making within Trump’s administration. “It’s going to have an effect decision making in Trump’s administration,” Bolton predicted. Fear of retribution may deter bold policy choices.
Bolton, a foreign policy hawk, described working in Trump’s White House as chaotic, likening it to “living inside a pinball machine.” Despite their differences, he remains united with Trump in facing Iran’s threats. His warnings highlight the need for unity against external dangers.
Iran’s alleged plots are a stark reminder of the costs of confronting global terror. Bolton stressed that these threats are “really dangerous behaviour” aimed at undermining U.S. resolve. The regime’s actions demand a robust defense of American interests.
As Iran’s terror network continues to threaten American leaders, the nation must stand firm. The targeting of Trump and others is a direct assault on the values of faith, family, and sovereignty. Protecting those who serve the country is essential to restoring America’s strength.
