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Beer, BBQ and America: lawmakers share their favorite traditions for the nation's birthday

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 05:00:26 -0400

America’s 250th birthday is a milestone in the nation’s history that, in Washington, D.C., was marked by thunderous fireworks, flyovers and a fair on the National Mall.

But at the granular level, families across the country have celebrated July 4 in their own way for generations, crafting traditions that they revisit year after year. Trips to the lake, sizzling hot dogs, bottle rockets, picnics in the park and burgers — all hallmarks of America’s celebration of independence.

Lawmakers, when the partisan barbs end, the floor speeches quiet, and Congress ditches Washington for the weekend every year, like the everyday working American, have their own traditions, too.

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Rep. Derrick Van Orden, R-Wis., said his favorite tradition was "loving America."

"So all of our children, we raise them to love this country, because we tell them the truth about this country, and they understand that America is the most awesome place that has ever existed in the history of the planet," Van Orden said. "So we get together, we barbecue some hot dogs, and then we watch some fireworks. It's great."

And of course, there’s beer.

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"I'm from Wisconsin," he said. "Of course. Miller Lights and Hebrew National hot dogs are great. They're all beef and wonderful. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind a mix of, you know, pork and beef for a hot dog, but I like the Hebrew Nationals myself."

Geography does play a factor in some lawmakers' traditions. Like Rep. Troy Downing, R-Mont., whose family heads to the tiny town of Harlowton, Mont., to a friend’s ranch, where a lake and ranch hand routine take center stage.

"We all camp there. The kids play in the water. And, you know, usually that's right around branding [season]," Downing said. "So branding is usually when you castrate. And so I'm usually in charge of doing all the calf fries after the castrations."

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Then there’s the barbecue, which is a staple in Rep. Ralph Norman’s home state of South Carolina.

"Eatin' barbecue and relaxin," Norman said.

When pressed if there was any beer in between, Norman quipped, "I'm not old enough to drink beer."

"I have to get a – I've got a fake ID I've gotta show," he said. "No, drinking beer, barbecue, and having a good time with family."

Others take the opportunity to celebrate President Donald Trump alongside their year in and year out traditions.

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"My neighbor, nice guy, great guy, my twin brother Trevor, are going to come over, we've got flags flying in our backyard, we're going to have some lobster tail, maybe some nice, fat ribeyes, a lot of fat on the ribeyes," Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas said.

"We like the marbling on the ribeyes — and just celebrate the 4th and just look at the birds and the flowers and just be thankful that we were born in the greatest country on earth, right," he continued. "And celebrate the greatest president in the lifetime of this great country, Donald J. Trump. That's what I'm thankful for, and that's what I'll be celebrating."

Pro-Trump artist unleashes powerful message about American flag, touts massive Old Glory painting

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 07:00:20 -0400

Patriotic artist Scott LoBaido is putting the finishing touches on what he calls the largest oil-on-canvas portrait ever of Old Glory at the Great American State Fair in D.C., but the outspoken Trump supporter says the message behind the massive American flag is completely apolitical.

LoBaido told Fox News Digital the American flag "does not belong to any particular party" as he painted the 9-by-17-foot flag at the Made in America Pavilion during the Great American State Fair in the nation's capital, part of the broader celebration surrounding America’s 250th birthday.

The Staten Island artist said he believes the piece may be the largest oil-on-canvas American flag ever created.

"I am a political person, but that’s irrelevant from this," LoBaido said. "This flag is for everybody."

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The New York-based, pro-Trump artist told Fox News Digital that some on the left "run away from the flag because they think it’s a MAGA symbol," but LoBaido argued that view misses the point of both the flag and his painting.

"This fair right now that we are at is the perfect example, because there are a lot of Democrats that are coming through here," LoBaido said. "And they know me, and they know my politics. And we did not have any political conversation. We spoke about the flag, the art, the meaning of the flag … how special it is that we’re at this 250th birthday party anniversary."

LoBaido also pushed back on those who protest the country by desecrating the flag, arguing that Old Glory is what protects their right to protest in the first place.

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"That American flag that men and women still die for is giving you the freedom to be whatever you want, and do whatever you want – protest whatever you want," LoBaido added. "So that flag should always be up in the air."

LoBaido told Fox News Digital that the size and live setting of the painting are what make the project different from his past work painting the American flag.

"I believe this is the largest American flag done with oils on canvas at the colossal canvas size of 9 feet by 17 feet," he said. "So, right there is my biggest detailed oil painting of Old Glory."

LoBaido added that there was no better place to create the piece publicly than at America’s 250th birthday celebration, calling the American flag itself "the greatest work of art."

"Where better to unveil, create in public, live, this greatest work of art — not mine, but the American flag itself — at the birthday party of the greatest place in the universe, America, and its 250th birthday party?"

ARTIST PAINTS PRESIDENT TRUMP LIVE, CELEBRATING AMERICA 250 AT THE GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR

LoBaido expects the final unveiling to be emotional, adding that he plans to put the finishing touches on the painting on Independence Day before it eventually finds a permanent home.

"I’m just going to put the final touches on it and I don’t know, maybe make an emotional statement, a little speech," he said, adding that he has "a weakness for this country and the Star-Spangled Banner sung properly."

LoBaido told Fox News Digital that he has already received interest in the painting, but he also floated one high-profile possibility of where it could wind up landing.

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"Would this not look great in the White House ballroom?" he said. "I think it would be the most beautiful painting with the gold frame on it. Who knows?"

The artist said Trump already owns several of his paintings, but joked that if the president wants this one, "he might have to open up his checkbook," adding that he gives "a big portion" of his proceeds to charity.

BROADCAST BIAS: Media celebrate America turning 250, but bash US the rest of the time

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 07:00:13 -0400

This weekend, the networks will break out their commercialized fireworks spectacles to pander to the patriotic mainstream of Americans – even if the Democrats have demonstrated they're dropping out of having any pride in America or its ideals.

It’s a lot like their New Year’s Eve specials – lots of musical performances and some fireworks and toasts. But polls show patriotism is suffering a dramatic decline among Democrats. President Donald Trump's pledge to make America great again is their usual knee-jerk moment: if Trump loves America, then he must be wrong. They think patriotism is just something deluded White people are pushing to keep all the immigrants out of the country.

In previous years, the left has also seen patriotism as a tool for warmongers, and if you’re a Christian patriot, you get tagged as a scary "Christian nationalist." If you’re a big Trump fan, you’re probably a "White nationalist."

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Anti-American sentiment is an easy exhibit in media bias. Consider two recent headlines at NBCNews.com. First:

"As nation turns 250, many Americans say the Stars and Stripes is now a red flag:

The American flag: To some, it’s Old Glory. To others, it’s a MAGA hat on a stick."

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A MAGA hat on a stick! What a perfect summation of media revulsion. Reporter Corky Siemaszko found a man in Massachusetts who was alarmed about his neighbors: "If we do fly the flag, we will also put out signs to make it clear that we are not MAGA."

The leftist media thinks protesting America is the most American thing. The NBC reporter added, "Rather than not fly the flag, several readers said they plan to show their patriotism — and protest Trump — by flying it upside down to signal that the country is in distress."

But just a few days ago, NBC demonstrated what they believe should be the universal opinion of Americans:

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"A ‘beacon of hope’: Obama unveils his presidential center in Chicago."

We should all revere former President Barack Obama, because that is the media "mainstream." The man who promised to "fundamentally transform" America from its origins. The man who mocked "American exceptionalism." Instead, the media believe in Obama Exceptionalism. Everything great about Democracy is Democrats.

The ascent of President Trump brought out a vicious counterpoint. On NBC’s "Meet the Press" in 2017, Detroit Free Press writer Stephen Henderson argued: "Some of the words of the National Anthem are White supremacist. ... I think this is a country whose history is racist, whose history is steeped in White supremacy, and the anthem reflects that in its very words."

This view was also common on ABC’s "The View." Last year, co-host Sunny Hostin spewed: "Because of my lived experience, as an Afro Latina, I’m able to look at this world with a different prism, and I’m able to tell this country and tell this audience and tell my fellow co-hosts some uncomfortable truths. This is a country based on racism and slavery and founded in it."

Later, she added: "I think it’s ridiculous that people don’t see what this country was founded on and what this country still is sickened with. It’s a sick country. It’s a racist country."

There was another moment in 2025, when pseudo-conservative co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin dared to point out that Iran executes homosexuals, throwing them off buildings. Host Whoopi Goldberg wasn’t having it: "Let's not do that because if we start with that, we've been known in this country to tie gay folks to the car!" Griffin replied: "In the year 2025 in the United States, is nothing like if I step foot wearing this outfit into Iran right now!" Goldberg shot back: "Listen, I'm sorry, they used to just keep hanging Black people!"

Griffin came back again: "I think it’s very different to live in the United States in 2025 than it is in Iran." Whoopi Goldberg shot back: "Not if you’re Black!" Sunny Hostin echoed: "Not for everybody!"

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This also happened on "The View" under George W. Bush in 2007. Co-host Rosie O’Donnell lectured: "I just want to say something: 655,000 Iraqi civilians are dead. Who are the terrorists? ... If you were in Iraq and another country, the United States, the richest in the world, invaded your country and killed 655,000 of your citizens, what would you call us?" It’s no surprise that O’Donnell would eventually seek out refuge in Ireland.

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The networks could stick to the "mainstream" on patriotism and hail the progress that America has made in its history, especially on race. But Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis can tell you, when you want to tell children at school that we’ve overcome slavery and Jim Crow, then the media "report" you’re a racist downplaying slavery. You’re "erasing history." It’s somehow not debasing history to claim today’s Republicans are somehow "Jim Crow 2.0," when clearly, the Democrats were Jim Crow 1.0.

Most Americans will celebrate this historic milestone for our country and not have to fake it for a weekend like ABC, CBS, NBC and PBS.

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Socialist-led California city's clash over Israel and antisemitism offers glimpse into the left's future

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 07:00:12 -0400

A California city that has long been a hub of progressive politics now appears to be a test of how the American left navigates issues of Israel and antisemitism.

In Richmond, Calif., a city led by Democratic socialist-aligned Mayor Eduardo Martinez, discussions about housing, crime and other local issues quickly became drowned out by discussions about Israel's war in Gaza following Hamas' Oct. 7 attacks. The debate spread into the Bay Area, as Jewish leaders and residents said Martinez had crossed the line between legitimate criticism of Israel and antisemitic rhetoric.

Stephen London, a Jewish Richmond resident who spoke to Fox News Digital, said that before Oct. 7 he had not paid much attention to local politics. However, once the city became the first in the country to pass a ceasefire resolution after the attacks, he began watching city politics closely, questioning why city leadership was focused on a war thousands of miles away.

"Whatever your politics are about the Middle East, what the hell does it have to do with Richmond?," London told Fox News Digital.

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London said his family lives in Israel and that he has visited the country a few times, including volunteering on a kibbutz, but he has not been there in several decades.

The resolution, passed in October 2023, declared the city's solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and accused Israel of carrying out "a campaign of ethnic cleansing and collective punishment," according to a page on the city's website that appears to have since been deleted.

The resolution became a flashpoint for Jewish residents of Richmond, like London, and for Jewish leaders in the Bay Area, many of whom argued that it was aimed more at justifying Hamas' attack than criticizing Israeli policies.

"We could understand a year or more [later] on how policy critiques of the Israeli government could lead folks to want to speak out. But this was really just glorifying Hamas and demonizing the Jewish state as Jewish residents of Richmond were grieving, grieving for the worst attack on the Jewish people since the end of the Holocaust with October 7th," Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) Bay Area CEO Tyler "Tye" Gregory said.

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In August 2025, Martinez participated in the People's Conference for Palestine in Detroit, where he was seen wearing a hat that read "DD TT IDF," an acronym for "death, death to the IDF." The mayor also spoke at the conference, where he compared himself to Palestinians, saying that he understood the Palestinians' struggle because he was bullied as a child.

"If Palestine were a schoolyard playground, I would be a Palestinian, and that part of me, that part of me that couldn't endure the abuse anymore, would be Hamas," Martinez said.

While the conference intensified criticism of Martinez, his actions following the Hanukkah attack in Bondi Beach, Australia, proved to be the tipping point for many Bay Area Jewish leaders.

"He's made a lot of outrageous accusations and shared a lot conspiracies online. But the moment of Bondi Beach was so horrific. It was such a gut punch to all of us to see the leader in the East Bay of an important city really blame that on us as we were grieving was just the last straw," Gregory told Fox News Digital.

After Martinez shared on LinkedIn what JCRC Bay Area saw as offensive posts about the Bondi Beach massacre, the organization called on the mayor to resign. The posts contained conspiracy theories about the December 2025 Bondi Beach massacre in Australia.

One of the posts read, "RIP to all of the victims of Israel's false flag attack. The hero that disarmed the attacker was a Syrian-born Muslim man. That doesn't help the narrative that Israel is trying so hard to push." The same post accused Israel of "trying to manufacture fear and hate." Another post said that "the root cause of antisemitism is the behaviour of Israel & Israelis," and was captioned, "They know it. We know it. Everybody knows it..."

The JCRC said that the rhetoric in the posts was "dangerously antisemitic, deeply offensive, and wholly unacceptable—particularly coming from a sitting mayor." The organization added that the posts, along with Martinez's past behaviors reflected "a consistent and deeply troubling disregard for the safety and dignity of Jewish people."

J. The Jewish News of Northern California, an outlet that took screenshots of the offensive posts, reported that Martinez later removed his LinkedIn page from public view. As of this writing, it appears that it is not possible to find the Richmond mayor on LinkedIn.

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The mayor later apologized on Facebook, expressing his regret and saying that he did not "fully read and understand" the posts.

"I failed to fully read and understand the meaning behind what I was reposting, and inadvertently spread content that was factually inaccurate, conspiratorial, and portrayed Judaism in a negative light," Martinez wrote.

"As Mayor, I have a responsibility to represent all of Richmond and to bring people together. In this instance, I fell short of that responsibility," he added. "I deeply regret my actions and am committed to doing better. This will include serious personal reflection and meeting directly with members of the communities I have harmed to listen, learn, and understand their perspectives firsthand. This is necessary, and I take it seriously."

Reactions to the apology were mixed. Some who commented on the post said that the mayor was standing on the right side of history by opposing Israel, while others argued that the apology was not strong enough. Critics who commented on the apology post noted that the mayor was falsely claiming ignorance and not actually apologizing "for amplifying antisemitic conspiracy theories."

As the controversy unfolded, Martinez was preparing for his reelection bid. Martinez is both aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America and is a member of the Richmond Progressive Alliance (RPA), a powerful coalition that has had influence over politics in the city for years.

Rather than backing Martinez ahead of the June 2026 primary, the RPA announced in February that it would be supporting Councilmember Claudia Jimenez.

"We support mayoral candidate Claudia Jimenez because she is the best leader to move the city of Richmond forward. Claudia has demonstrated skills in managing city finances, championing immigrant rights, and spearheading the Chevron settlement fund," the RPA wrote on Facebook.

Despite what the coalition stated in its endorsement announcement, some speculated that the group could have made the decision as a way of distancing themselves from Martinez following the Bondi Beach posts.

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For Gregory, the controversy surrounding Martinez was not just about the mayor's comments, but rather how Bay Area Jewish leaders choose to respond to debates over Israel as they become more commonplace in local politics.

"I think the Jewish community needs to pick its battles. We're often not going to be able to stop people from the DSA from getting elected. The question is, what do you do once they're elected?" Gregory said.

Gregory warned that the Jewish community has to strike a balancing act between being "really careful not to cry wolf" and keeping the public's attention on the issue. He said the community should work with officials when they are doing the things they were elected to do, such as filling potholes, improving public safety or tackling other everyday issues.

"Where they are doing those things appropriately, I think that we need to work with them like we would another mayor or another elected official. And where they're crossing the line, where they are demonizing the Jewish community, that's where we need to step up and get involved," he said.

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The questions raised in Richmond regarding Israel and antisemitism have come up in other progressive strongholds as the issues become increasingly prominent in local politics. This has been the case in New York City, where Mayor Zohran Mamdani has been criticized for his stance on Israel. Mamdani was widely panned during his campaign over his refusal to condemn the phrase "globalize the intifada," which many interpret as a call for violence against Jews.

Despite his objections to Martinez, London expressed that he believed Richmond was in better shape than the Big Apple.

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"I think Jews are getting organized. You know, we realize if we don't stand up for ourselves, we're in big trouble," London said. "I sort of like look at what's happening in New York and think 'Wow, things could be much worse. We don't have a Mamdani here.'"

Neither Martinez nor the RPA immediately responded to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Newsom, Walz urge Congress to block anti-climate bill in their ‘woke’ crusade

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 07:00:12 -0400

Top Democratic governors, including Minnesota's Tim Walz, California's Gavin Newsom and Illinois's J.B. Pritzker are urging Congress to reject legislation that would shield oil and gas companies from climate-related lawsuits, arguing taxpayers should not bear the costs of pollution.

"Communities all across our nation, in red states and blue states, have suffered and face staggering costs from fires, floods, storms, and heat waves that, according to scientists, are becoming more destructive as a result of the burning of fossil fuels," reads a letter penned by 10 Democrat governors.

The top state leaders, along with Democrat attorneys general, are pushing Congress to reject the Stop Climate Shakedowns Act of 2026, arguing it would protect oil and gas industries by granting immunity from lawsuits at the expense of taxpayers. Republicans argue the bill protects American energy from lawsuits that could bankrupt the industry, lead to job loss and drive up the cost of electricity and gasoline.

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"Such a guide is sorely needed as litigation involving climate science only grows in prevalence and urgency in our courts. Furthermore, the chapter’s removal does not change the scientific reality of climate change," wrote more than 20 attorneys general in their letter to Congress.

Jason Isaac, American Energy Institute CEO, told Fox News Digital that this is a "coordinated legal campaign to bankrupt lawful American energy producers through junk litigation."

"These companies legally produced the energy that heats and cools homes, powers hospitals, and fuels the American economy — and now a coalition of activist attorneys general and climate advocacy groups want to make them pay retroactively for doing exactly that," said Isaac.

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The act was first introduced by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyo., in April. If passed, the act would clear over a dozen lawsuits filed against oil and gas industries brought by local and state governments.

"After many failed attempts to enact EU-style climate measures, activists have turned to suing energy companies in a thinly-veiled effort to impose a global carbon tax through the courts," Civitas Institute research director Michael Toth told Fox News Digital.

"This climate lawfare threatens to hijack the federal government's authority over matters that bear directly on our national security."

California sued several major oil companies in 2023 as part of a broader Democratic effort to hold the fossil fuel industry accountable for climate change. The lawsuit, which remains tied up in litigation, reflects Gov. Gavin Newsom's longstanding opposition to the fossil fuel industry despite California being one of the nation's largest oil-producing states.

"These companies knew about the catastrophic consequences of fossil fuels. They covered it up. Suppressed scientific data. Spent millions to cast doubts on climate science. Time for them to pay," Newsom wrote on X at the time.

The letters from Democratic members and attorneys general come as the Supreme Court will hear a case in their fall term on ExxonMobil and Suncor Energy brought on by officials in Boulder, Colorado.

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More than 70 House Republicans are urging the Supreme Court to reject the bid to hold major oil companies liable for climate change damages, calling the lawsuit a costly "war on American energy," Fox News Digital previously reported.

The case would decide whether federal law preempts localities from seeking relief for alleged climate damages in state courts. Boulder sued ExxonMobil and Suncor in 2018, alleging they contributed to climate change and misled the public about its risks.

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Alliance for Consumers Executive Director O.H. Skinner told Fox News that elected officials need to "push back against climate lawfare, stopping left-wing activists from using their woke lawfare playbook to push unpopular political beliefs through the courts."

"These activists push a woke agenda that hurts consumers by driving up costs and limiting what is on store shelves for consumers. This is the Biden playbook all over again," said Skinner.

America's wounded cops find hope, healing and second chance through officers who refuse to leave them behind

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 06:00:57 -0400

The hardest day in a wounded police officer's life isn't always the day they're injured in the line of duty.

For many, retired Las Vegas police Lt. Randy Sutton said, it's the day they realize they've been forgotten.

Sutton knows that feeling firsthand. After surviving a career-ending stroke, the former officer founded The Wounded Blue, the nation's only nonprofit dedicated exclusively to injured and disabled law enforcement officers.

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Over the past eight years, the organization has helped more than 17,000 officers nationwide through peer support, advocacy and critical resources.

As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Sutton hopes the nation takes time to recognize not only those who wear the badge, but also those whose service continues long after they've left it behind.

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"If you had asked me what I'd be doing in my retirement years after 34 years of police service, this never would've been in the informational packet of my own brain," Sutton told Fox News Digital. "But fate works in very, very strange ways."

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Those twists of fate began one night while Sutton was patrolling the Las Vegas Strip.

"I literally felt my brain slowing down," he recalled. "I stopped the car and said, 'Get me medical. I'm having a stroke.'"

The stroke ended his law enforcement career, but Sutton said what happened after he left the hospital changed the course of his life even more.

HEROIC ICE OFFICERS, STAFF MEMBER OPEN UP ON GROWING DANGERS: ‘AM I GOING TO DIE?'

"I lost my career," he said. "I lost my identity."

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As he fought for his medical benefits, Sutton said he began receiving calls and messages from officers across the country sharing similar stories.

"'Randy, I was shot in the line of duty.' 'Randy, I was paralyzed when my police car was struck by a drunk driver.' One after another from cops I didn't even know," he said. "I realized at that point this is a national issue and there was no national resource for these men and women. So I created it."

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That organization became The Wounded Blue, whose motto, "Never Forgotten. Never Alone," was born from Sutton's own experience.

"Having experienced it, I came up with that motto from what it felt like to me when I did feel forgotten, when I did feel alone," he said. "It took me to some very dark places."

Today, The Wounded Blue's peer support team is made up entirely of officers who have survived shootings, stabbings, devastating crashes, post-traumatic stress and other life-changing injuries.

"Our entire team is made up of cops who have been shot or stabbed or beaten or run over... and they've come out on the other side," Sutton said.

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Of the more than 17,000 officers the organization has helped, one story continues to stay with him.

A Utah police officer lost his leg after being struck by a tractor-trailer driven by a man under the influence of cocaine. Sutton said the officer's department abandoned him, leaving him with a worn-out prosthetic so damaged he was "walking around on a bloody stump."

Then came a phone call from what Sutton affectionately calls "the Voice on the Phone," an anonymous donor who first contacted him after seeing him discuss The Wounded Blue on Fox News.

When Sutton learned a replacement prosthetic would cost more than $117,000, he called the donor.

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"That man's a hero," Sutton recalled the donor telling him. "He deserves the best prosthetic leg money can buy."

The generosity didn't stop there. After learning the officer and his wife had adopted two children with special needs, Sutton said The Wounded Blue and its charitable partners completely renovated the family's home.

"That's The Wounded Blue," Sutton said.

Another story still brings a smile to Sutton's face.

A Texas police officer suffered a catastrophic spinal injury during a struggle with a suspect and endured 16 botched surgeries before doctors told him he would never walk again. Sutton said The Wounded Blue first purchased the officer a wheelchair before connecting him with a renowned spinal surgeon through the same anonymous donor.

"Three months ago, he danced with his daughter at her wedding," Sutton said. "He's got his life back."

WATCH: Sergeant recaps devastating spinal injury during National Police Week

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Those stories continue to fuel Sutton's mission.

Just days before speaking with Fox News Digital, he traveled to Mississippi to spend nearly a week beside a deputy who was critically wounded after being ambushed and struck by an AK-47 round.

"My wish is that someday we'll have the resources to go to the bedside of every cop who's been severely injured in the line of duty," Sutton said. "If someday we have the resources to do it, you can bet that's where I will be."

Beyond expanding bedside support, Sutton hopes to continue growing The Wounded Blue's annual National Law Enforcement Survival Summit, which brings officers and their spouses together to focus on recovery, mental health and life after the job.

"It's every aspect of surviving a law enforcement career — physically, emotionally, psychologically, spiritually," he said.

As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Sutton hopes the country remembers that supporting those who protect their communities shouldn't end when the headlines do.

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"The men and women serving today are heroes," he said. "They're willing to give their lives for their communities."

For those looking to get involved, Sutton encourages Americans to support The Wounded Blue through its "9-1-1 Campaign," which asks supporters to donate $9.11 a month. Businesses can also partner with the nonprofit, while current and retired officers in need are encouraged to reach out directly for help.

"If you're a law enforcement officer or have been and you're struggling, contact us," Sutton said. "The Wounded Blue exists for you."

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If there's one message Sutton hopes Americans remember as they celebrate the nation's milestone birthday, it's one shared by the anonymous donor whose generosity has changed countless lives.

"America cares about its heroes."

Immigrant business owner who built the American Dream says birth tourism is a 'slap in the face'

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 06:00:32 -0400

A legal immigrant from Trinidad who became a U.S. citizen after nearly a decade-long process told Fox News Digital that birth tourism and illegal immigration are a "slap in the face" to those who came to America the right way.

Kris Ramsingh, a Virginia business owner who immigrated in 2006 and became a citizen in 2015, said his own experience becoming an American shaped his support for President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

"When you see that people come across the border, whether it's [to] have a baby for an anchor, or come across to border and get free healthcare, [or] free school, it's really a slap in the face to the people who have worked really hard to come into this country the legal way," he told Fox News Digital in an interview Thursday.

Unlike those who enter the country illegally, Ramsingh said he was required to satisfy a series of federal immigration requirements before becoming a U.S. citizen.

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As part of the legal immigration process, federal authorities required Ramsingh to provide proof of certain vaccines, personal documentation, a criminal background check and proof of a bank account to demonstrate he would not become a ward of the state.

"America doesn't owe us anything," Ramsingh said of legal immigrants like himself. "Our government here doesn't owe us anything. We have the privilege of coming into this country where it’s a holiday visa or for school."

Ramsingh said the week of Independence Day also marks the anniversary of his and his wife's arrival in the U.S. in 2006 with just $300 and a few suitcases.

"I have lived in Roanoke all of those 20 years since," he said from his Dominion Custom Upholstery business not too far from the city’s famed Mill Mountain Star.

WORLD CUP SOCCER FANS ARE DISCOVERING AMERICA’S GREATNESS. IT’S TIME AMERICANS DID, TOO

As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day, Ramsingh said he feels a special sense of pride in the American flag.

He recounted living in his home country in 1990 when Muslim insurgents carried out a coup and shot Prime Minister ANR Robinson while taking officials hostage.

"When we saw the red, white, and blue [of American] soldiers coming into the country, we knew we were safe. We knew at that point that America had our back. And America has had a lot of countries’ back over the years," he said, commenting that — having experienced such a situation firsthand — he is troubled by other countries that demand America’s assistance but go back to resenting the U.S. after they’ve been helped.

Ramsingh said that experience shaped his appreciation for the United States and its role around the world.

After immigrating to the United States, Ramsingh founded Dominion Custom Upholstery 13 years ago and later launched another company focused on boatworks and interior repairs.

He also recently founded Dominion Project International, a missionary organization through which he travels to India, Africa and the Caribbean to share the Gospel while providing potable water and medical supplies to people in need.

"The American Dream is that you can try something — you can work hard and try and if it doesn't work out you can you can pick up and try again," he added.

"The flag represents peace [and] hope as we’re getting ready to celebrate Saturday, the Fourth of July, and it means so much to me — it means freedom."

Since becoming a U.S. citizen, Ramsingh said he feels a special sense of security and pride whenever he returns from missionary trips abroad.

"There’s a sense of ‘I’m back on U.S. soil; I’m home,’" he said, whether landing in Washington, D.C., Miami or New York.

"That feeling is so great and it really bothers me to see Americans and foreigners coming into this country and saying that they hate America," he said.

"I think if you hated that much, you should just leave — there is no need for you to be here."

Asked about critics’ claims that Trump is anti-immigrant, Ramsingh rejected that characterization.

"He’s not anti-immigrant. Republicans are not anti-immigrant — we just want them to go through the process of doing it legally; coming in legally."

"During the Biden administration. When he opened that border — we're anti-invasion, we are not anti-immigrant. That was an invasion."

Ramsingh acknowledged that some of the personal stories surrounding deportations are difficult to watch, but said those situations stem from years of lax enforcement of U.S. immigration laws.

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"I came from a third-world country. My missions are in third-world countries. I see how these people live. I understand why they want to come to America. I understand the ‘why’," he said.

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"I would say Trump is not against immigration. He just wants to see it done right. And again, Donald Trump and our government doesn't owe immigrants anything. We have the privilege of being here. It's a privilege. It's not a right."

Fox News Digital's Hannah Brennan and Kiera McDonald contributed to this report.

House Dems dodge questions on SCOTUS trans athlete ruling, shift blame to 'culture wars'

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 04:00:42 -0400

House Democrats mostly sidestepped questions on the Supreme Court ruling that now allows states to ban student-athletes from competing on sports teams or in leagues that correspond with their gender identity rather than their biological sex.

" I think we spend far too much time obsessing over that," Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., told Fox News Digital when asked for his opinion on the ruling. "And what people should be focused on right now is the dysfunction here in Washington."

" I think the focus should be on this economy and getting us out of this war of choice and bringing down gas prices so that folks do not have to make real decisions about if they're going to put food on their table or gas in their tank, to take their kids to the hospital or to school," Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, D-Calif., said.

DEMOCRATS STAY QUIET ON NEXT STEPS AFTER SUPREME COURT TRANSGENDER SPORTS RULING

She continued, "I think that the culture wars that we allow to divide us don't do anything to feed our kids."

The Supreme Court's 6-3 decision marked a major victory for supporters of laws restricting transgender athletes from competing in girls' and women's sports, upholding state laws challenged by transgender student-athletes who argued the policies violated the Constitution.

But when asked about the landmark ruling, several House Democrats didn’t know about the decision or pivoted to talking about what they deemed as more important issues like the economy and dysfunction in Congress.

"This place is a disaster," McGovern said. "And, you know, and the incompetence here is... I've never seen this before. "

"I think what people should be focused on is that Washington is not working, and it's really sad."

WHAT THE SCOTUS TITLE IX RULING COULD MEAN FOR LAWSUITS SEEKING DAMAGES FOR WOMEN IMPACTED BY TRANS ATHLETES

Despite the ruling leaving the decision up to the states rather than a nationwide ban, Rep. Seth Magaziner, D-R.I., argued the issue should be dealt with at an even lower level — locally.

"Let like the school athletic associations, let parents, let people at the local level decide which sports and which age groups should be co-ed or what the rules should be."

Like several of his Democratic colleagues, Magaziner quickly shifted the conversation to broader issues he said Congress should prioritize.

NEWSOM'S OFFICE RESPONDS TO SCOTUS RULING ON WOMEN'S SPORTS AS CALIFORNIA FACES ONGOING TRANS ATHLETE WAVE

"I frankly like don't think that this is something that politicians in Washington should be involved in," Magaziner said. "We should be focused on lowering inflation, we should be focused on ending the war, we should be focused on preserving our democracy."

"Congress should be focused on the big picture things," he added.

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Rep. Sarah Elfreth, D-Md., was among the few Democrats to offer a direct criticism of the ruling, calling it "unfortunate."

"Unfortunate for a lot of folks in across this country," Elfreth said. "Like I said, they didn't get a lot right today."

Al Green responds to July 4 question with renewed call to impeach Trump

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 04:00:23 -0400

Democratic lawmakers said they believed the U.S. is still an extraordinary country despite expressing disagreements with President Donald Trump when asked by Fox News Digital if they were proud to be American citizens.

"The freedoms that we have and the fact that anyone should be able to get ahead for them and their family based on the laws we have every now and then — in general, it's sound," Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Wisc., said.

The answers, which came ahead of the country’s 250th Independence Day celebration, highlight the deep distrust Democrats have of the administration’s leadership even as they expressed confidence in principles that have made U.S. prosperity possible.

Just one, Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, declined to expand on why he was proud to be an American.

WORLD CUP SOCCER FANS ARE DISCOVERING AMERICA’S GREATNESS. IT’S TIME AMERICANS DID, TOO

"I am very proud to tell you that impeachment is an option to remove a reckless, ruthless, lawless president," Green answered when asked if he was proud to be an American.

"I’m proud that it exists," Green added.

Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, echoed his thinking.

"I believe Americans are ready to defend our democracy and oppose authoritarianism so that we can celebrate our 251st birthday in this country instead of turning all power over to a would-be king," Doggett said.

Despite his disagreements with the Trump administration, Doggett clarified that his views were distinct from his feelings about the nation itself.

"We’re the greatest country on earth. We’re innovative, we’re smart, we make sure that we promote our values, our liberties and justice and freedom. We’re always trying to perfect our union, but at the same time, we were the great experiment of democracy and it’s been a rousing success," Doggett said.

Other Democrats, like Rep. Shri Thanedar, D-Mich., agreed with U.S. exceptionalism.

"This is a great country. You know, we are a country of immigrants. Immigrants have contributed so much to our country, and you know this is the greatest country on earth. I am so proud to call myself an American citizen, although there are some concerns with the new administration," Thanedar said.

AMERICA WON'T LAST ANOTHER 250 YEARS BASED ON THE 'CURRENT ADMINISTRATION,' MS NOW GUEST WARNS

Thanedar, who was born in India, immigrated to the United States in 1979.

For their own part, Republicans, who readily affirmed their pride in the country, articulated that they believed the founding ideas were the reason for the country’s success.

Rep. Glenn Grothman, R-Wisc., said he believed the Constitution had given citizens the latitude to thrive.

"I guess our Constitution and all the freedoms we have that other countries don't have, which results in us being so much wealthier than other countries — not that that's the main thing. But you look at your average American with a front yard and backyard, they don't even have that in Western Europe, they don't have that in Israel, they have it in other top countries. We've got it here in the United States," Grothman said.

"So, I think the combination between the material wealth which impresses you and a Christian nation which is also so tremendous."

PUSH TO OUST TRUMP EXPOSES CRACKS AMONG DEMOCRATS ON STRATEGY, TIMING

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Rep. Cory Mills, R-Fla., said he believes it’s that success that has made Americans proud and zealous for protecting its interests.

"We’re a nation who’s willing to understand peace through strength. And we’re a nation that has been willing to go ahead and pledge our lives to keep the freedoms that we have here that no other nation like ours has seen," Mills said.

Trump hails America as 'most exceptional nation ever to exist' in Mount Rushmore speech

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 00:38:13 -0400

President Donald Trump marked the eve of America's 250th anniversary with a sweeping patriotic address at Mount Rushmore on Friday, declaring the United States the "most exceptional nation ever to exist" and vowing that it would "never be a Communist country."

Speaking beneath the granite likenesses of four of his predecessors — George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt — Trump touted American exceptionalism as festivities marking the nation's 250th anniversary ramped up across the country.

"In all the chronicles of the ages, never before has any nation celebrated so magnificent a triumph as this one," Trump told the crowd.

TRUMP KICKS OFF FOURTH OF JULY WEEKEND WITH SYMBOLIC SALUTE TO AMERICA’S LEGACY

"At 250 years, America is the oldest republic on earth," he continued. "We are the freest people on earth. We have the most righteous and enduring Constitution on earth. We are the strongest and most powerful country on earth. And by the grace of God, the United States of America is the most successful, most accomplished, most exceptional nation ever to exist in human history."

Trump praised the nation's history and argued that no other country had achieved as much as the United States.

"The birth and survival of the American nation under God is, quite simply, the best and most incredible thing ever to happen on this planet by human hands, ever," he said. "No other country has done more good for this world than the United States of America."

AMERICA’S NEXT 250 YEARS DEPEND ON PASSING FAITH AND FREEDOM TO OUR CHILDREN

Before Trump took the stage, the new Air Force One flew over Mount Rushmore as spectators cheered. After his remarks, the president stayed to watch a fireworks display over the Black Hills.

Trump argued the country was facing what he described as a growing communist movement that sought to undermine America's "exceptional character" and "alienate us from our history."

The president said the movement had raised the question, "What does it mean to be an American?"

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Trump described communism as "the greatest threat" facing the United States.

"It is the greatest threat to our country, including World War I, World War II, Pearl Harbor, or even 9/11," Trump said. "We're not going to let this happen to us. Believe me, we're not letting it happen, because communism is the enemy of free people."

"Communism is the exact opposite of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness — it is death, tyranny and the pursuit of evil," he continued.

"But we will not let them win," he added. "They have no chance against us."

Trump issued a clear directive: "You can be loyal to Karl Marx, or you can be loyal to America. You can be a communist, or you can be a patriot. You cannot be both."

As Americans face those choices, Trump pointed to the nation's past sacrifices as a guide for its future.

"Our American ancestors did not shed their blood at Concord and Trenton, Gettysburg and Shiloh, Midway and Normandy, just so that a band of thieves, radicals and lunatics could come in and loot, pillage our nation," he said.

Trump also highlighted the four presidents carved into the mountain behind him, saying they represented America's founding ideals.

"They were men of action, men of ambition, men of daring, men of destiny, and men of truly great intelligence," he said. "Above all, they were great men of history. Tonight, on the threshold of our 250th year, we stand beneath the monument of these heroes, a true group of unbelievable people. And we rededicate ourselves to being a nation as big, bold, noble, and as great as these American giants."

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Trump is scheduled to deliver another speech Saturday on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. before a fireworks display celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary.

"We know that this is not an ending," Trump said. "This is only the beginning of the golden age of America."

Fourth of July app guides spectators through nine-hour air show from NASA jets to B-1 bombers

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 22:13:58 -0400

Hours before U.S. military aircraft are set to take flight over Washington, D.C., an app was launched to help Americans track the monumental Fourth of July aerial flyovers in real-time.

Created by senior White House official Shawn Chittle, the "4th of July Fly Over" app is designed as a companion guide for spectators watching along the National Mall and Washington Monument grounds.

To keep up with the fast-moving aerial acts, the app features an adjustable countdown timer set to the official schedule.

TRUMP KICKS OFF FOURTH OF JULY WEEKEND WITH SYMBOLIC SALUTE TO AMERICA’S LEGACY

If the flyovers run late or fast, users can manually adjust the timer, and the app will automatically display which aircraft is coming up next.

Spectators can also use the tool to access photos, history and basic facts about the legendary aircraft roaring overhead.

The app will serve as an essential tool for navigating the "Freedom 250" schedule, which spans over nine hours of demonstrations.

NEW AIR FORCE ONE TAKES FLIGHT AS TRUMP UNVEILS REVAMPED PRESIDENTIAL AIRCRAFT

The aerial showcase begins at 1:14 p.m. local time with a NASA F-5 flyover, followed by a series of fleet reviews spanning the Coast Guard, Army, Air Force, Marines and Navy.

Crowd favorites will take the stage later in the afternoon, with the Navy Blue Angels scheduled for 4:59 p.m. and the Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration at 6:25 p.m.

Just after 7 p.m., Air Force One will fly over, followed at 7:17 p.m. by a "HUGE 1" flyover led by the newly renovated Air Force One.

In the evening, there will be a U.S. Stealth Airpower flyover at 7:38 p.m. An F-22 Raptor afterburner display will follow at 7:53 p.m. and B-1 bombers in afterburner at 8:07 p.m.

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For spectators staying out late, a B-1 afterburner night pass will light up the sky at 10:36 p.m.

Observers can bookmark the app or add it directly to their mobile home screens to ensure they do not miss a single moment of the patriotic event.

Sports world turns out for Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift's Madison Square Garden wedding festivities

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 22:00:02 -0400

Various athletes and sports personalities were among the high-profile guests who attended Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding Friday night at Madison Square Garden.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and his wife, Kelly, were spotted leaving their hotel en route to the celebration, while Fox Sports personalities Erin Andrews and Charissa Thompson were also seen arriving for the event.

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OutKick reported earlier Friday that Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel and his wife, Jen, were on the guest list as well.

PATRIOTS HEAD COACH MIKE VRABEL, WIFE SPOTTED EN ROUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT AND TRAVIS KELCE'S WEDDING

Page Six posted a video of the two on social media, showing them leaving the hotel and getting into a car early Friday evening.

ESPN play-by-play commentator Joe Buck attended alongside his wife, Michelle Beisner-Buck.

Kelce's football circle was also well represented. Former Chiefs teammate Kareem Hunt and San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle were both in attendance to celebrate.

Beyond the guest list, Fox News Digital provided additional details about the ceremony on Friday. Representatives confirmed to People Magazine that the couple's friend Adam Sandler officiated the night.

Sandler and Kelce developed a friendship after the Chiefs tight end appeared in Happy Gilmore 2. Swift and Kelce did not have bridesmaids or groomsmen, according to a statement shared with People.

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As for what the bride and groom wore, the statement noted that the "ceremony looks have been created by Christian Dior Haute Couture. They are designed by Jonathan Anderson, Creative Director of Dior Women’s, Men’s and Haute Couture Collections, in close collaboration with the Bride and Groom. This is the designer's first couture wedding dress for a world-renowned celebrity. Their shoes were custom-made by Christian Louboutin and the bride wore Cartier jewelry."

There have not yet been any public sightings of Chiefs head coach Andy Reid or quarterback Patrick Mahomes, though both were expected to attend.

Messi, Argentina avoid a shocking upset in wild knockout stage match against Cape Verde

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 21:30:04 -0400

On Friday, Argentina looked to continue its quest for back-to-back World Cup titles, and to do it, they had to get through one of the darlings of this year's tournament, Cape Verde.

The small island nation off the coast of West Africa came into the match as the No. 64-ranked team in the world, and they managed to hold Argentina — the No. 2 team behind France at the moment — scoreless for almost thirty minutes.

But in the 29th minute, Lionel Messi scored to give Argentina the lead.

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That was the 20th World Cup goal of his career, and it also made him the first player to score seven or more goals in multiple World Cups, having done it in Qatar as well.

It was also Messi's eighth-straight World Cup match with a goal.

Well, typically when Argentina takes the lead, they don't cough it up, but early in the second half, Cape Verde's Deroy Duarte pulled off a stunner and tied the game at 1-1.

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While there was some late pressure from Argentina, that included an always-dangerous Messi free kick from just outside the box that Cape Verde managed to stop.

And with that, it was off to extra time.

However, it only took moments for Cape Verde to find themselves once again battling from behind.

Lisandro Martinez found the twine in the 92nd minute to give Argentina the lead.

It looked like that would be all she wrote... but Cape Verde had other plans.

They stuck with the defending World Cup champs, and in the 103rd minute, Sidny Lopes Cabral scored an unbelievable goal to tie the game again.

Coming into this game, Argentina had given up just two goals in their ten-match World Cup winning streak.

Cape Verde did that in one match.

But in the 111th minute, Messi took an Argentina corner kick and put it in the perfect spot for Cristian Romero to head it to the back post and into the back of the net.

This was eventually updated to an own-goal, as it went off the Cape Verde defender's arm, but it counts the same on the scoreboard.

Despite a late flurry of chances, Argentina held on to avoid what would have been potentially the biggest upset in World Cup history.

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What a match, and what a run Cape Verde had in the tournament.

Argentina will now have to recompose and get ready for a tough Round of 16 match against Egypt, which will take place on Tuesday in Atlanta.

Three dead, 7 rescued in boating tragedy as severe holiday weekend storm ravages Wisconsin tourist hot spot

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:58:38 -0400

A fast-moving, destructive storm ripped through southern Wisconsin Friday, leaving three people dead after their boat overturned on Geneva Lake during the busy Fourth of July holiday weekend.

The tragedy unfolded as a powerful storm system swept across Walworth County starting at roughly 12:10 p.m.

Amid the chaos, local dispatchers received urgent 911 calls reporting that a boat had capsized on Geneva Lake with multiple people struggling in the water.

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A City of Lake Geneva police boat and the Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency successfully rescued seven people from the water, but three people could not be saved, Walworth County Undersheriff Tom Hausner said during a news conference.

Emergency crews later recovered their bodies.

Authorities have not yet released the identities of the three victims who died, though sources told CBS News Chicago they were all children.

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The capsizing is under joint investigation by the Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Hausner said that while the county's permanent population sits around 106,000, it surges to more than 200,000 visitors on holiday weekends like the Fourth of July.

"Our resources, not just the sheriff's office, but all law enforcement resources and fire and EMS are stressed, and this compounded that to levels unprecedented," Hausner said.

MASSACHUSETTS TOWN CANCELS JULY 4 CELEBRATION CITING LACK OF 'ADEQUATE PUBLIC SAFETY STAFFING'

The sheriff's office initiated an emergency call-in of all off-duty deputies and requested mutual aid from Rock, Kenosha and Jefferson counties and the Wisconsin State Patrol and DNR.

City of Lake Geneva Mayor Todd Krause issued an emergency declaration at 12:18 p.m. after the high winds and heavy rains knocked down power lines, shattered trees, damaged buildings and left cars crushed.

Numerous storm-related injuries have been reported, forcing area hospitals to enact diversions due to the overwhelming volume of patients.

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The Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency, City of Lake Geneva Police Department, Walworth County Sheriff's Office and Walworth County did not immediately respond to additional inquiries from Fox News Digital.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources referred all inquiries to the City of Lake Geneva Police Department.

USA's Folarin Balogun criticizes referee's red card in first comments since controversial ruling

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:57:02 -0400

The United States is currently gearing up to play its biggest game in program history without arguably its top performer of this World Cup.

Folarin Balogun will have to sit out Monday's Round of 16 matchup against Belgium after receiving a red card on an incidental, yet ugly-looking, play.

In going for a loose ball, Balogun and an opponent got incidentally tangled up to the point where Balogun stepped on the opponent's ankle, causing it to roll awkwardly. The video assistant referee (VAR) ordered the play to be looked at, and Balogun's transgressions were deemed "serious" enough for the red card.

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The red card not only ejected Balogun from the game and forced the USA to play the rest of the match with 10 men, but it also meant he would miss the team's Round of 16 match against Belgium on Monday.

In his first public comments since the ejection (and suspension), Balogun said he disagreed with the ruling.

"First and foremost, it was totally unintentional, which I'm sure a lot of people know. But, you know, I think the choice of the referee was, of course, his choice, but I don't think it was the correct call," he told reporters on Friday. "I think a yellow card would have been fair due to it not being intentional. There's not many places I can place my foot in such a scenario. But it's happened, and it's something that I have to accept and move forward from."

FORMER TEAM USA STAR WANTS TO SEE RED CARD RULE CHANGE AFTER FOLARIN BALOGUN CONTROVERSY

"There’s been lots of different emotions. I’ve been upset, I’ve been happy, it’s been surreal to be honest," he added. "But for me it was just important to stay calm. I never want to react out of anger and emotion. There’s still lots of people we’re inspiring. Little kids, boys and girls are watching. We have to show them the correct way to handle things even when you think it’s unjust, so I felt I did that. I’m happy with the support, not just I’m receiving but the team. I think we’re all looking forward to seeing what we can do against Belgium."

Despite the controversial ruling, there was nothing the USMNT could do. Article 9.6 of the 2026 World Cup regulations reads, "No protests may be made about the referee’s decisions regarding facts connected with play. Such decisions are final and not subject to appeal, unless otherwise stipulated in the FIFA Disciplinary Code."

"If a player or team official is sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card (second caution), they will automatically be suspended from their team’s subsequent match," Article 10.5 states.

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FIFA did confirm that Balogun would only miss the Belgium game, so he is eligible to return to the quarterfinals if the USA wins on Monday.

Taylor Swift marries Travis Kelce

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:53:57 -0400

Taylor Swift found her happily ever after.

Swift married NFL star Travis Kelce July 3 at a ceremony held at Madison Square Garden. The couple reportedly hosted around 1,000 guests after renting the arena for multiple days.

The "Love Story" singer began dating Kelce in summer 2023.

TAYLOR SWIFT SHUTS DOWN 'OFFENSIVE' FAN THEORY ABOUT HER CAREER AFTER SHE MARRIES TRAVIS KELCE

Another A-list star served as the officiant for the couple's wedding. "The ceremony joined both families together and was officiated by friend Adam Sandler," reps confirmed to People magazine.

Sandler and Kelce bonded after the tight end appeared in "Happy Gilmore 2," and later on the Kelce brother's podcast, "New Heights."

"He was so cool, he was just like you (Jason Kelce), just like you when you took over with announcing. You guys just go, ‘All right if I’m doing this I might as well be great at this,’" Sandler said last year.

"Anyways, yeah you were cool as s---, Travis was locked in, he kind of had to be a bad guy, he was just there."

Swift and Kelce did not have bridesmaids or groomsmen for their big day, according to the statement shared with the outlet. The pop star's brother, Austin Swift, was her "Man of Honor" and Kelce's brother, Jason, was the NFL player's "Best Man."

Swift's notoriously private about her relationships, and while their exact timeline is unclear, she was first spotted at a Chiefs game Sept. 24, 2023.

She revealed in an interview with Time magazine that they actually began dating long before she appeared in the stands.

"This all started when Travis very adorably put me on blast on his podcast, which I thought was metal as hell," she said. "We started hanging out right after that. So, we actually had a significant amount of time that no one knew, which I’m grateful for, because we got to get to know each other.

"By the time I went to that first game, we were a couple."

In July 2023, Kelce joked on his "New Heights" podcast that he missed the opportunity to give Swift a friendship bracelet in person when The Eras Tour rolled through Kansas City.

"If you’re up on Taylor Swift concerts, there are friendship bracelets, and I received a bunch of them being there, but I wanted to give Taylor Swift one with my (phone) number on it," Kelce told his brother, Jason.

TAYLOR SWIFT PUTS KANSAS CITY ON THE MAP WITH TRAVIS KELCE RELATIONSHIP

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Swift and Kelce appeared on his podcast Aug. 13, 2025, and they shared more details of how they met.

When asked why she chose to appear on the podcast, she joked, "This podcast got me a boyfriend ever since Travis decided to use it as his personal dating app.

"This dude didn't get a meet-and-greet, and he's making it everyone's problem. That's what I thought at first. ... You realize he didn't even reach out to our management. He came with Pat [Mahomes], and he thought that, because he knows the elevator lady, that he could talk to her about just getting down to my dressing room."

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Kelce admitted Swift's music actually gave him a roadmap on how to win her over.

"I was sitting there at the Eras Tour listening to every single one of those songs being like, ‘I know exactly what she wants me to do,'" he said. "I'm the luckiest man in the world."

Thirteen days after the "New Heights" podcast episode featuring Swift dropped, the two announced their engagement on Instagram.

"Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married," Swift wrote, sharing photos of Kelce down on one knee during the intimate moment.

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Socialist Colorado candidate blames Israel for 'putting Jewish people in great danger'

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:00:36 -0400

Socialist Colorado congressional candidate Melat Kiros blamed Israel’s activity in the Middle East for inspiring attacks on Jewish people in other countries during an interview on Wednesday.

Kiros is part of a wave of anti-Israel, far-left candidates gaining popularity in the Democratic Party. She won her primary in her Denver-area district this week, ousting longtime incumbent Diana Degette after far-left candidates won their primaries in New York last month.

Colorado Attorney General and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Phil Weiser recently condemned her hesitance to answer whether a deadly attack on a pro-Israel rally in Boulder last year could be described as antisemitic, something a 9News host brought up to Kiros earlier this week.

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"I just spoke with Attorney General Phil Weiser, who won the Democratic primary for governor last night. He is very likely to be Colorado's next governor in the same way that you are very likely to be a member of the Colorado congressional delegation come next year," the host noted.

"He has some real concerns about things that you have said about Israel and, in particular, about the firebombing of Jewish people in Boulder, and he told me that he would like to sit down and have a conversation with you so that you can hear where he's coming from and he can hear where you're coming from. Are you open to that?"

"Absolutely," she said to the prospect of having a conversation with Weiser. "You know, at the end of the day, what happened in Boulder was a horrific attack on a group of Jewish people that were peacefully protesting, and we are seeing that the actions of Israel are putting Jewish people in great danger. And the hate and the antisemitism that's rising as a result of it is one that I have every intention of prioritizing and combating.

"I really look forward to sitting down with Phil Weiser to figure out how we can work together to combat that hate."

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In the aforementioned interview, Kiros had said of the convicted bomber, "I don't know what was in the heart of the perpetrator. All I know is that he went and attacked innocent people because of what they might have believed, and I don't even know what the people that were at that protest believed, too. In fact, most of them were probably just there to, you know, ask that the people who were kidnapped during Oct. 7 be returned home to their families. That's not a political statement in and of itself."

The attack by Mohamed Soliman happened June 1, 2025, targeting a pro-Israel demonstration in Boulder. Eighty-two-year-old Karen Diamond was killed, and about a dozen others were injured.

Soliman appeared to disguise himself as a gardener before springing into action, hurling two flaming projectiles at demonstrators, according to prosecutors.

He pleaded guilty in May to state charges, including murder, and was sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole. Soliman expressed regret for his crime and even said he deserved the death penalty, The New York Times reported. He denied being motivated by hatred of Jews but launched into what the Times called a "rambling diatribe against Zionism, which he described as 'the enemy.'"

He could still face the death penalty on federal hate crime charges.

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Kiros made her opposition to Israel a centerpiece of her successful primary campaign. In her victory speech after clinching the nomination, she said one of her chief goals was to "end the genocide in Palestine."

Fox News Digital reached out to the Kiros campaign for comment.

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Fox News' Lindsay Kornick and Robert McGreevy contributed to this report.

ESPN makes right decision by removing Rich Eisen from play-by-play amid NFL Network acquisition

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 18:55:16 -0400

Rich Eisen confirmed he will no longer call NFL games as a play-by-play commentator following ESPN's acquisition of NFL Network.

"I believe I am done," Eisen told Sports Illustrated when asked if he would continue calling games this upcoming season.

Eisen had called games for NFL Network since around 2018, including most of the network's international slate. Kurt Warner often served as the color analyst alongside him.

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Sources tell OutKick it was ESPN's decision to remove Eisen from game broadcasts. Dave Pasch is expected to replace him on NFL Network-exclusive games.

Pasch, who is leaving his role with the Arizona Cardinals, will be a significant upgrade. He is one of ESPN's best play-by-play voices.

Eisen never reached that level.

His game-calling drew consistent criticism from fans and media observers. He relied too heavily on clichés and talked over replays and the natural sounds of the game. He too often defaulted to the same phrases. Critics frequently pointed to his limited vocabulary, such as repeatedly referring to midfield as "the shield," and his tendency to call games in the passive voice.

During the interview, Eisen attributed those struggles to instincts he developed as a studio host.

"I enjoyed doing it a lot, man. I enjoyed doing it a lot. But it's so counter to what I normally do," Eisen told SI. "Sitting in this chair on this set, three-hour radio TV simulcast game day morning on Sunday morning, if there's dead air, if there's blank space, if there's no talking, my first thought is to jump in and fill the void. It's the exact opposite when you're calling a game. Your job is to shut the f up after the big moment happens."

Fair.

Not everyone can excel as both a studio host and a play-by-play announcer. NBC's Mike Tirico is one of the few exceptions.

Still, Eisen's standing at ESPN is hardly in jeopardy. Even before the acquisition of NFL Network, he signed a separate deal with ESPN to carry his daily radio show on ESPN Radio and Disney+. He has also hosted several special editions of SportsCenter.

ESPN MUST HOLD STEPHEN A ACCOUNTABLE AFTER DOUBLING DOWN ON RACIST REMARKS ABOUT WHITE BASKETBALL PLAYERS

Around the industry, Eisen is a polarizing figure.

Most people view him as a talented studio anchor and a recognizable face for casual sports fans. However, he also draws criticism for his fixation on his own nostalgia from the 1990s. It's difficult to watch one of his shows without hearing him reference himself from 20 or 25 years ago.

He's also more political than ESPN appears to want to be at this stage. Some of the guests on his radio show have included Doug Emhoff, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Tim Walz and CNN host Jake Tapper.

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At least he's still capable of talking sports without belittling "white dudes" or defending hard fouls on Caitlin Clark.

Eisen still has value — just not as a play-by-play commentator. ESPN recognized that before its first season operating NFL Network.

US Coast Guard saves 8, including infant and child, after vessel capsizes off Fort Myers Beach

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 18:39:26 -0400

A quick-thinking crew from U.S. Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach saved eight lives, including an infant and a child, after a boat capsized Friday afternoon near the Sanibel Causeway in Florida.

Responders rushed to the capsized vessel, executing a rapid, coordinated effort that resulted in every person being safely recovered from the water.

Officials credited the success of the operation to the crew's "relentless" preparation and teamwork.

AT LEAST 6 PEOPLE INJURED AFTER BOSTON DUCK BOAT OVERTURNS NEAR ENTRANCE TO POPULAR TOURIST ATTRACTION

"A successful mission is measured by the lives brought home safely," U.S. Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach wrote in a statement on Facebook.

The Coast Guard emphasized the high-stakes rescue serves as a powerful reminder of why its crews train constantly and remain ready to respond at any hour of the day or night.

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"When seconds matter, preparation, communication, and teamwork make all the difference," the Coast Guard station wrote. "We are grateful for the opportunity to serve our community and thankful that this incident ended with everyone returning home safely. Our thoughts are with those involved, and we’re proud of every responder who played a role in this successful rescue."

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The Sanibel Causeway is in southwest Florida, just west of Fort Myers on the Gulf Coast.

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, wife spotted en route to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 18:08:46 -0400

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding is drawing an interesting crowd of some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment to Madison Square Garden.

That includes New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, fresh off Super Bowl LX, who was spotted in New York City arriving and then later departing a hotel with his wife, Jen.

Page Six posted a video of the two on social media, showing them leaving the hotel and getting into a car early Friday evening.

TAYLOR SWIFT AND TRAVIS KELCE'S WEDDING OF THE YEAR: EVERYTHING WE KNOW SO FAR

Vrabel — who previously coached the Tennessee Titans — has never coached Kelce, but it's not exactly a surprise to see some of the biggest names in the NFL on hand for the evening.

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There is, of course, a gigantic elephant in the room: These photos from Friday also marked the first time Vrabel and his wife had been seen in public together since the coach became embroiled in a scandal involving former The Athletic NFL reporter Dianna Russini.

Vrabel and Russini were photographed together at a resort in Sedona, Arizona, and after that, additional photos and videos — some from several years earlier — came to light.

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While Vrabel stayed at the helm of the Patriots, Russini resigned from her position with The Athletic shortly after the scandal broke.

Military allies, historic tall ships converge on New Jersey shores to launch America 250 celebrations

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:57:31 -0400

An international fleet of tall ships arrived on the shores of New Jersey Friday to mark a once-in-a-generation celebration of America’s semiquincentennial.

Organizers and officials gathered in Sandy Hook to outline the scope of the historic Sail4th 250 tribute.

"Nearly 250 years ago, it was here at Sandy Hook that George Washington's army drove the British from New Jersey," said Gov. Mikie Sherrill, a former naval officer. "It was from this day that the last British ships of the Revolutionary War departed."

NEW ORLEANS HOSTS FIRST STOP OF SAIL 250 AS FLEET BEGINS EAST COAST JOURNEY

The site is also home to the country's oldest continuously lit lighthouse, which has guided maritime navigators since 1764.

The area is now preserved as part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, a 27,000-acre national park spanning New York and New Jersey that welcomes more than 9 million visitors annually.

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Roughly 20 nations have dispatched their premier tall ships to participate in the celebration, with vessels arriving from as far away as Italy, India, Peru, Poland, Spain and Sweden.

The legendary U.S. Coast Guard cutter Eagle, which was acquired as a war reparation from Nazi Germany, will lead the official parade of ships.

It is the only active square-rigged sailing vessel in federal service and has been sailed by every Coast Guard Academy cadet.

EUROPE'S $116B FIGHTER JET 'FAILURE' RAISES FRESH DOUBTS ABOUT ABILITY TO DEFEND ITSELF WITHOUT US

Sherrill said the presence of the international crews represents something far deeper than a simple tourist attraction, noting the event is a testament to the strength of global security alliances.

"America never fights alone because we fight alongside our friends and allies," Sherrill said. "Today, it's a joy to be here to celebrate with all of our allies and friends."

Planning for the monumental maritime review has been underway since April 2020, when organizers first began coordinating with foreign military attachés, according to Christopher O'Brien, president of Sail4th 250.

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The main festivities will kick off Saturday morning and will include the Tall Ships Parade, International Naval Review and a coordinated International Aerial Review.

"Fifty years ago, people lined the Hudson to cheer [on] hundreds of ships from around the world," Sherrill said, referring to the country’s 1976 bicentennial celebration. "This week, millions will turn out again for another massive boat parade, united by a shared love of country, pride in our history and hope for the future."

Conservative Keiko Fujimori officially declared winner of Peru's presidential runoff election

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:52:18 -0400

Keiko Fujimori, the conservative politician and daughter of the former president, was declared the winner Friday of Peru's presidential runoff election.

Fujimori, 51, will take office later this month as Peru's ninth president in 10 years. This was her fourth bid for the position following years of political instability in the country.

Fujimori thanked her supporters in a post on X announcing the conclusion of the election.

STATE DEPARTMENT CONGRATULATES KEIKO FUJIMORI AS PERU'S PRESIDENT-ELECT FOLLOWING RAZOR-THIN VOTE COUNT

"I receive with profound gratitude the trust that millions of Peruvians have placed in me. A new stage begins. We assume it with responsibility, humility, and a deep sense of duty," she wrote. "Each day of this transition process is an opportunity to listen, engage in dialogue, and arrive prepared at the start of the new government. Through these accounts, we will share the progress of this stage and the work we have been carrying out. I invite you to join us."

Peru's top election authority certified the results Friday. Fujimori received 9,223,000 votes, or 50.14% of the total, while nationalist Congressman Roberto Sánchez earned over 9,173,000 votes, or 49.87%, The Associated Press reported.

Fujimori made it to the runoff after defeating 33 other candidates in April.

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Her election came amid concerns from voters about surging crime, especially extortion by violent organized crime gangs. Fujimori has pledged to act tough on crime with an "iron fist."

She is the daughter of the late Alberto Fujimori, the former president whose government in the 1990s defeated the Shining Path extremist rebel group but also took an authoritarian turn.

He was convicted in 2009 of human rights abuses in the fight against the rebels and, later on, corruption charges. His legacy within Peru remains deeply divisive.

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On Tuesday, the State Department congratulated the younger Fujimori.

"The Trump administration looks forward to deepening collaboration with the Fujimori administration to advance security cooperation and to strengthen bilateral cooperation on investment and trade in our region," the statement read.

Flyers make stunning offer sheet for Ducks star Leo Carlsson in blockbuster NHL move

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:43:28 -0400

One of the most fun things about the NHL is the specter of offer sheets hanging over teams with highly-prized restricted free agents, as was the case this year for the Anaheim Ducks and 21-year-old Swedish superstar Leo Carlsson.

While the Ducks have maintained they'll match any offer sheet, they may not have been prepared for the monster offer Philadelphia Flyers GM Danny Briere was willing to make.

Five years with an AAV of $18 million, which would make Carlsson the highest-paid player in the league.

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Now, here's where the fun begins: the Ducks have a week to match that offer. If they decide they don't want to, Carlsson will become a Flyer, and the Ducks will receive Philadelphia's first-round draft picks in each of the next four seasons.

It's about as high-risk, high-reward as it gets.

The Flyers had a surprisingly strong season in 2025-26, and clearly Briere thinks that trend will continue. So, he's willing to push all of his chips to the center of the table for a top-line center, something the Flyers really need.

THE TALLEST PLAYER EVER SELECTED IN THE NHL BLEW MINDS IN HIS DEBUT WITH THE SAN JOSE SHARKS

Of course, coughing up draft picks like that, should things go sideways, is a real gamble.

Anaheim is in a similar bind here. They may not want to part with Carlsson just after the team returned to the postseason.

However, according to Puckpedia, they've got just over $17 million in projected cap space (I suspect Daniel Briere was acutely aware of this), meaning to match the offer sheet, they'll have to move some money around.

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Do they want to do that? Or do they think they can continue without Carlsson while bringing in a haul of draft picks they can also use in trades?

We'll have to see what the Ducks decide, but this is exactly why offer sheets are quietly one of the wildest things the NHL has to offer.

Caitlin Clark named Eastern Conference Player of the Month despite only playing 10 games

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:05:02 -0400

Caitlin Clark has spent a lot of time in the headlines this season for reasons that have nothing to do with her play on the court. But it's worth remembering just how dominant she's been whenever she's healthy.

Just one day after being named an All-Star starter for the third consecutive season, Clark was named the WNBA Eastern Conference Player of the Month for June. It's the second time in her career she's earned the honor after also winning Player of the Month and Rookie of the Month in August 2024. She joins Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings as the only players in Indiana Fever history to receive the award, with Catchings winning it three times.

CAITLIN CLARK HIGHLIGHTS 3 FEVER PLAYERS NAMED AMONG 2026 WNBA ALL-STAR GAME STARTERS

Clark was sensational throughout June, averaging 21.9 points, 8.2 assists and 4.0 rebounds over 10 games while shooting 45.6% from the field and 35.1% from beyond the arc. She ranked fourth in the WNBA in scoring and second in assists, leading Indiana to a 7-4 record while powering the league's highest-scoring offense at 95.5 points per game.

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One of her best performances came on June 11 against Chicago, when she exploded for 32 points and 10 assists. Clark and Aliyah Boston became the first teammates in WNBA history to each record a 30-point double-double in the same game. Five days later, she followed that up with 21 points and a season-high 14 assists in a win over Toronto.

From June 11-22, Clark also set a new WNBA record by recording at least 20 points and five assists in six consecutive games. It was the third time in her career she has put together a streak of at least five straight games reaching those marks—something every other player in league history has combined to do just three times.

That streak ended only because a back injury forced Clark to leave Indiana's June 24 game against Phoenix in the third quarter after she had already piled up 19 points and eight assists. It was also the game in which Alyssa Thomas made contact with Clark's neck during a play that resulted in a flagrant foul.

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Clark continues to rewrite the WNBA record books. She enters July needing just nine assists to reach 600 for her career and only five three-pointers to become the fastest player in league history to make 200 career threes.

Trump grants pardons to 'persecuted' mechanics in right-to-repair crackdown: 'I am setting them all free'

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:04:43 -0400

President Donald Trump on Friday announced full executive pardons for more than half a dozen people he claims were "persecuted" by the Biden administration for simply "fixing their car."

In a Truth Social post Friday afternoon, the president took aim at federal prosecutions he characterized as part of the "Weaponization and Stupidity" of the prior administration, saying, "I AM SETTING THEM ALL FREE, RIGHT NOW!"

Those who received clemency were charged after circumventing emissions control regulations that are no longer in effect, a White House official told Fox News Digital.

They include: Joshua Davis; Matt Geouge; Jonathan Achtemeier; Tim Clancy; Ryan and Wade Lalone; Barry Pierce; Aaron Rudolf; and Mackenzie Spurlock.

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The pardons align with Trump’s broader push to defend the "right to repair."

Earlier in the week, he signed a presidential memo designed to make it easier for Americans to repair their own vehicles by protecting self-repair rights and opening up options for aftermarket parts.

"It came to my attention because I noticed they were arresting people for fixing their car," Trump said during an Oval Office news conference. "We rule by common sense."

The executive clemency follows the high-profile federal environmental case involving Elite Diesel Service Inc. and its owner, Troy Lake Sr.

Lake received a full and unconditional pardon Nov. 7, 2025, wiping away his conviction in the case United States v. Elite Diesel Service, Inc. et al.

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According to federal plea agreements, Elite Diesel had instructed employees to disable computerized on-board diagnostic systems on at least 344 heavy-duty commercial trucks between January 2017 and December 2020.

The diagnostic systems are federally mandated under the Clean Air Act to monitor emissions control systems.

Lake was sentenced on Dec. 5, 2024, to more than a year in prison and a $2,500 fine. The company was put on probation for five years, ordered to pay a fine of $37,500 and required to make a $12,500 payment to a Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment program designed to repair emissions systems for low-income drivers.

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Government prosecutors also argued that Elite Diesel's co-conspirators, other diesel truck garages and fleets, hired Lake's company to manipulate the computers so that emission system malfunctions would go undetected, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Colorado.

The EPA’s sprawling investigation ultimately swept up eight alleged co-conspirator garages and fleets across seven states, including Kansas, North Dakota and Oklahoma.

The businesses were ordered to pay heavy fines and fund local community service projects, such as buying clean school buses or electric groundskeeping equipment to offset environmental impacts, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

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At the time, Biden administration officials defended the criminal prosecutions as essential for public health.

EPA Criminal Investigation Division Special Agent Lance Ehrig accused the defendants of leading a "large-scale conspiracy" that "diminished air quality."

A study cited by the prosecution claimed the tampered trucks collectively released more than 1,300 tons of excess nitrogen oxides and other pollutants into the air.