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Lexie Hull and Sophie Cunningham team up on a California beach for some 'much needed r&r'

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 20:14:39 -0400

Sophie Cunningham and Lexie Hull, the two self-described Indiana Fever mermaids, teamed up on Monday on a California beach for some "much needed r&r."

If you know ball like I know ball, you know these two aren't going to miss an opportunity for a bikini day off. They're not going to be bullied out of having fun off the court by anyone.

That includes their superstar teammate Caitlin Clark. She tried and she failed to bully them. She would much rather see Sophie and Lexie focus on basketball than on tanning. But that's not how these two roll.

ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW!

They have proven they can play their part on the court while enjoying themselves off of it. So they spent one of their days off before taking on the Los Angeles Sparks on Wednesday night at Manhattan Beach.

They got their much-needed rest and relaxation. They got some content for social media. And they worked on their tans, which will pay off in the tunnel pregame.

SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM TURNED HEADS OFF THE COURT BEFORE DOMINATING ANGEL REESE, SPURS-KNICKS TICKET PRICE & SABAN!

That's a successful day off in my book. As I said when I questioned Clark going after these two last spring, they can do both. They ball, and they can tan. Love it or hate it, it's part of the game.

Sophie Cunningham and Lexie Hull get it. They're going to continue to ignore the haters on and off the roster. Why wouldn't they? It's been working.

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The brand deals are there. They're growing the game, and they're contributing members of a 12-8 team, which is good enough to be two and a half games back of the top team in the WNBA.

Let's not forget the wise teachings of Deion Sanders, "Look good, feel good. Feel good, play good. Play good, they pay good."

New explosive allegation rocks Platner campaign still reeling from rape accusation

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 20:06:58 -0400

Embattled U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner was hit with a second explosive allegation of sexual impropriety only about 24 hours after he was accused of rape — all while a major campaign decision deadline looms.

In a new report published by The Washington Post, the candidate from Maine was accused of removing condoms during sex with his ex-girlfriend Lyndsey Fifield after she explicitly directed him to wear them.

"He would pull condoms off," she told The Washington Post. "He would do it in a sneaky way. He wouldn’t tell me."

NEW YORK TIMES UNDER SCRUTINY OVER GRAHAM PLATNER COVERAGE AS ACCUSERS SPEAK OUT AGAINST PAPER

Fifield, 41, previously accused Platner of physical misconduct during their relationship, saying that he sometimes grabbed her hard enough to leave marks on her body and that one time he twisted her arm around her back, pushed her into a bedroom and held the door shut until she "calmed down."

Those concerns were largely dismissed by Platner's supporters, who characterized Fifield, who used to work at The Heritage Foundation, as being a conservative operative.

"I confronted him both during and after [sex] because he knew that I was not on birth control and how dangerous that was," she told the Post, which said Fifield made the allegations in a previous interview with the outlet but strictly off the record.

‘HE HATED WOMEN’: EXPLOSIVE ABUSE, NEW NAZI TATTOO ALLEGATIONS FROM EXES ROCK PLATNER'S CAMPAIGN

"He would act, like, cute about it, like ‘Oh sneaky me,'" she said, according to the report.

In a statement to The Washington Post, the Platner campaign reportedly said that Fifield's latest allegations were "categorically false and politically motivated."

Platner is running to oust Republican Maine Sen. Susan Collins.

Monday, the oyster farmer, whose campaign has been dogged by scandal since last year, was accused of rape by another woman.

PLATNER'S LATEST ACCUSER CLAIMS THE DEMOCRATIC SENATE CANDIDATE 'ABSOLUTELY' RAPED HER

Jenny Racicot, 41, told Politico that Platner drunkenly entered her home while they were on-again, off-again romantic partners in 2021 and raped her. She claimed that he ejaculated inside her after she told him to stop multiple times.

"I remember him grabbing my pelvis and being really forceful of me," Racicot told the outlet, which she said took place while Platner was "almost blackout drunk" in Washington, D.C. "I remember the specific moment where I thought to myself, like, ‘This is no longer my choice.’"

Platner categorically denied those allegations, too, in a video released in the immediate aftermath of the publication of the Politico story.

He said his campaign was taking time to assess possible next steps as a major deadline in the race looms.

Platner must withdraw from the race by 5 p.m. July 13 if another Democratic candidate, who would be chosen by the party, is to replace him before the November general election.

Monday evening into Tuesday, a litany of previous supporters dropped their endorsements of Platner and called for him to drop out of the race, including progressive senators Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., two of his most ardent backers.

"Now more than ever we need leaders in Washington who reflect our values. There can be no tolerance for sexual assault," Warren said in a statement Monday night.

TOP PLATNER ALLY TURNS ON HIM AFTER BOMBSHELL RAPE ALLEGATION ROCKS CAMPAIGN: 'RED LINE'

"Working families are counting on Democrats to win the Senate election in Maine to unrig our economy and hold Donald Trump accountable. With so much at stake, the best path forward is for Graham Platner to step aside as the Democratic nominee and address these serious allegations outside this Senate race."

"I have spoken with Graham Platner about the best path forward for Maine," Sanders said in a statement Tuesday. "In light of these very serious allegations, I have recommended that he step aside."

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Fox News Digital reached out to Platner's campaign for comment.

Fox News' Andrew Mark Miller contributed to this report.

Donovan Mitchell signs massive $273M Cavaliers extension as LeBron James return speculation grows

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 20:00:28 -0400

Donovan Mitchell got quite a payday from the Cleveland Cavaliers Tuesday, agreeing to a four-year, $273 million maximum extension, which includes a full trade kicker and player option for the 2030-31 season.

While Mitchell could’ve waited one more year to get a potential five-year, $353 million deal, the 29-year-old wasted no time signing an extension on the first day he was eligible to do so this summer.

It’s hard for Cleveland not to want to build its team around Mitchell now and for the foreseeable future. He has been an All-Star seven straight seasons, which includes three with the Utah Jazz before he was traded to Cleveland during the 2022 offseason.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

He has averaged 26.7 points in four seasons with the Cavaliers, including 27.9 last season, and has made an All-NBA team in three of his four years.

Mitchell also noted having "unfinished business" after the team got swept by the eventual NBA champion New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals.

Mitchell was heading into the 2026-27 season on the last guaranteed season of his previous contract before a 2027 player option kicked in.

CAVS NEED LEBRON JAMES 'TO RETURN HOME TO SAVE THE DAY,' ESPN STAR STEPHEN A SMITH SAYS

Now, the bigger question for the Cavaliers: Does Mitchell’s contract extension hurt or help their chances of yet another reunion with LeBron James?

The 41-year-old has made it clear he will be playing elsewhere for the 2026-27 NBA season, marking the end of his eight years with the Los Angeles Lakers.

James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, hasn’t indicated where he might be heading, but reports have indicated his agent, Rich Paul, is actively looking at specific teams.

Among them is the Cavaliers, as the man from Akron, Ohio, has played a significant role in the franchise’s history, including an NBA title in 2016. If this is James' final NBA run, why not do it where it all began, where he returned after his successful stint with the Miami Heat and where he can close the book on a one-of-a-kind career?

However, other teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors have been rumored and debated about.

Of course, the salary cap and staying within its parameters is a big deal for NBA teams. While a Cavaliers fan could view Mitchell’s max extension as a bad thing for James to land back in Cleveland, it is not believed it will affect their chances at signing him.

As for James’ NBA title chances, the Cavaliers did reach the Eastern Conference finals, and the 41-year-old wouldn’t have to be the center of attention in terms of offensive playmaking. Mitchell and Evan Mobley can lead the way there, while Jarrett Allen protects the rim down low.

The Cavaliers and James Harden, whom they acquired before the trade deadline last season, are reportedly negotiating a team-friendly deal as well to keep their salary cap at bay.

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Whether the big fish will be landed, bringing "The Chosen One" back to his roots one last time remains to be seen.

Mitchell has left no doubt, though, where his future lies in the NBA, and he will look to get that unfinished business squared away in Cleveland.

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Far-left Platner supporter melts down after new scandal, accuses media of 'politically assassinating' him

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 20:00:06 -0400

A far-left podcaster slammed the mainstream media in an X post on Tuesday, accusing outlets of "politically assassinating" embattled Democratic U.S. Senate candidate in Maine Graham Platner.

"The Young Turks" CEO and founder Cenk Uygur, an influential political commentator, posted the accusation one day after Politico published allegations made by Jenny Racicot, who dated Platner. Racicot told Politico that, in 2021, Platner drunkenly entered her home and forced her to have sex with him against her will.

Platner denied the allegations in a video released by his campaign Monday, calling them "troubling, serious and false."

"Any accusation of nonconsensual behavior is categorically false," Platner said. He added that, in light of what he described as the "inaccuracy of the reporting," his campaign was "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward."

HOW GRAHAM PLATNER'S CAMPAIGN UNRAVELED: FROM REDDIT POSTS TO RAPE ALLEGATION

The allegations marked the latest crisis for Platner's campaign, which has faced multiple controversies involving allegations from former partners and scrutiny over other aspects of his past.

Despite Platner's denial, the latest allegations sparked major political backlash as Democrats began rescinding their endorsements of the Maine oysterman, with some calling on him to drop out of the race.

Platner rose to prominence by positioning himself as an anti-establishment progressive, campaigning against corporate PACs and U.S. support for Israel. Uygur, who has long used his platform to champion left-wing insurgent candidates, continued to defend Platner even as the controversies surrounding his campaign mounted.

Uygur went on to warn the Democratic Party against replacing Platner with candidates who are pro-Israel and in favor of corporate PACs.

"If he drops out and Democratic Party tries to give us two candidates who are both for Israel and corporate pacs [SIC], they'll face a revolt like they've never seen. Days of [bulls---] false choices are over," Uygur wrote.

The controversial podcaster said he wants a candidate that is "even more against corporate pacs [SIC], more against Israel, more against the establishment, more against corruption, more against the status quo."

NEW YORK TIMES UNDER SCRUTINY OVER GRAHAM PLATNER COVERAGE AS ACCUSERS SPEAK OUT AGAINST PAPER

In a subsequent post, Uygur warned that those who supported Platner would also face "character assassinations."

"Next the character assassins will move on to smearing anyone who supported Platner. They'll try guilt by association, to eliminate more opponents of the establishment. This is how these thugs operate and pick off outsiders one by one. Meanwhile, no one looks into the insiders," he wrote.

He also predicted that the media's "next target" would likely be an anti-Israel outsider.

Uygur has repeatedly argued that Democrats and the media targeted Platner because of the candidate's opposition to Israel. Since April, he has accused Democrats of targeting Platner over his views on the war in Gaza and U.S. support for Israel.

Last month, he said on X that Platner's critics "work for Israel" and that the Democrats attacking the Maine candidate were "ordered to do so by their handlers."

The post came just one day after The New York Times published allegations by Racicot and other women who previously dated Platner. Although the Times also interviewed women who spoke positively about Platner, the allegations by Racicot and the others became the focus of the scandal.

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One of the women interviewed by the Times, Lyndsey Fifield, shed light on a controversy that plagued Platner's campaign in its early days. Platner had a tattoo of a Nazi symbol known as a "Totenkopf" on his chest, though he claimed that he did not know its origin until it became a campaign issue. However, Fifield told the Times Platner had referred to it as "my Totenkopf," and that he taught her the word for the symbol.

While the allegations reported by the Times last month did not appear to shift support among Platner's backers, the accusations that surfaced Monday prompted several prominent Democrats to distance themselves from him. Among them were Reps. Ro Khanna, D-Calif.; Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich.; and Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz.

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Though he did not explicitly withdraw his endorsement, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., said in a post on X that he had spoken with Platner and "recommended that he step aside."

Platner has not dropped out of the race but said in a video released Monday that his campaign was "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward."

Dem with White House ambitions ripped after backing two scandal-plagued candidates: 'Troubling'

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:51:07 -0400

Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., who has left the door open to a 2028 presidential run, is facing new questions about his judgment after rescinding support for a second Democratic candidate accused of misconduct involving women.

Gallego rescinded his endorsement of Maine Senate nominee Graham Platner on Monday after a rape allegation surfaced. The move comes just months after Gallego pulled his support from Eric Swalwell’s disastrous California gubernatorial bid amid separate allegations of sexual assault and misconduct.

Both Platner and Swalwell have denied the allegations against them. In a social media post on X announcing he would be withdrawing his support for Platner, Gallego called the accusations against Platner "troubling and deeply serious."

Meanwhile, Lyndsey Fifield, Platner's former girlfriend who has publicly accused Platner of abusive behavior, called out Gallego after the Arizona senator withdrew his Platner endorsement Monday, suggesting Gallego had ample warning signs before finally abandoning the embattled Maine Democrat.

DEM SENATOR FACES DOJ PROBE AFTER ALLEGATIONS OF SPENDING CAMPAIGN FUNDS ON LUXURY LIFESTYLE

"Mine weren't sufficiently troubling or serious for you, right?" Fifield wondered in response to a social media post on X from Gallego, referring to the accounts of her relationship with Platner provided to The New York Times and published several weeks ago.

Fifield’s allegations were included in a June 4 New York Times report examining Platner’s past relationships in which she alleged that he repeatedly grabbed her hard enough to leave marks, pulled her from a cab by the wrist and, in one incident, twisted her arm behind her back and held her in a room while they were dating several years ago. Fifield told the Times Platner never hit or punched her but said the alleged incidents left her shaken and afraid. Platner denied being violent and called the allegations false.

Still, Platner drew support from influential Democratic figures before and after the Times report. "Pod Save America" co-host Jon Lovett acknowledged after the June 4 story that the Times had reported allegations that Platner was "intimidating and even physically aggressive with past romantic partners" but argued Democrats had to weigh whether they preferred "a Democratic majority with Graham Platner in the Senate" or a Republican majority with incumbent Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine.

TOP PLATNER ALLY TURNS ON HIM AFTER BOMBSHELL RAPE ALLEGATION ROCKS CAMPAIGN: ‘RED LINE’

Fellow co-host Jon Favreau had previously praised Platner as Democrats’ "best and only chance" to beat Collins and as a "good, decent man who’s struggled and grown and is always trying to do better."

"Senator Gallego did the right thing and broke with those individuals when he learned they had betrayed values he proudly fights for," a Gallego spokesperson told Fox News Digital.

But Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., said people like Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., needed to apologize for backing Platner, telling Fox News' Laura Ingraham that he "refused" early on to look past the claims.

"What he did is he effectively broke in her home – he went in her home without her consent, then he came upstairs and assaulted her. She also described that created a dangerous situation for a possible pregnancy because of those circumstances, what he's done," Fetterman said of the latest allegations.

DEMS UPHILL CLIMB FOR SENATE MAJORITY JUST GOT A LOT STEEPER WITH LATEST PLATNER ALLEGATION

"He was already a dead man walking politically," Fetterman continued. "Even those ‘Pod Save America’ people who pushed that dirtbag — and they dismissed those things in The New York Times article — maybe they ought to apologize to the women that clearly they didn't believe or they dismissed.

"I know Democrats that have back-to-back endorsed and gone all in on Swalwell and were on the Platner train as well too. So, maybe stop getting in bed with absolute dirtbags, someone like Platner."

A Fox News Digital review of public endorsement announcements and press reports found Gallego was the only sitting member of Congress clearly identified as having endorsed both Swalwell and Platner. Separate state and local affiliates within the SEIU and AFL-CIO labor union networks were involved in each race, but they were not the same endorsing entities.

"The allegations against Platner are awful but are also unsurprising to anyone who actually read the NYT catch-and-kill story. The victim strongly implied the allegations there," former chief counsel to Senate Leader Mitch McConnell, Mike Fragoso, said this week after the latest round of allegations against Platner.

The latest allegation came from Jenny Racicot, a Maine Democrat who said she dated Platner on and off from 2019 to 2021 and had previously spoken to the Times for its June story. Racicot alleged in a Monday Politico report that Platner entered her home uninvited in late 2021 after she told him not to come over, was intoxicated, ignored her repeated objections and forced her to have sex.

Politico reported that it reviewed text messages and emails with Racicot’s therapist and spoke with people she said she confided in after the alleged assault. Platner has once again denied the allegation as false.

HOW GRAHAM PLATNER'S CAMPAIGN UNRAVELED: FROM REDDIT POSTS TO RAPE ALLEGATION

Gallego joined several other prominent Democrats after the Politico report in rescinding support for Platner or calling on him to exit the race, while Democratic operatives face a tight window under Maine election law to replace him if he withdraws.

"Gallego's judgment is troubling," Republican Arizona state Sen. Warren Peterson said. "Another Gallego endorsement going down in flames."

"There is a bizarre pattern of Gallego, who claimed complete ignorance of his friend Eric Swalwell's alleged abusive treatment of women and is now doing the same with Graham Platner," said Jonathan Turley, a Fox News Media contributor and George Washington University law professor.

"For Schumer’s PAC, Senatorial, Gallego, the Pod Bros, et al. the only real difference now is polling," Fragoso said of the changing sentiment toward Platner.

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Meanwhile, conservative commentator Ryan Girdusky took aim at Gallego’s personal history, writing on X, "Ruben Gallego is dropping Graham Platner like he’s a pregnant wife."

The jab comes as Gallego has also faced separate scrutiny in reference to his 2016 divorce from wife Kate Gallego, who was pregnant at the time.

Unsealed divorce records reportedly showed that Gallego filed for divorce on Dec. 15, 2016, and that his own motion to seal the case noted Kate Gallego had "not yet been served" but was "likely to give birth any day."

In addition to scrutiny over his divorce, Gallego has faced complaints over his campaign spending on family travel, childcare and other personal expenses. A week ago, Politico reported that Gallego used campaign money on family trips to Miami, Saint Barthélemy, Disneyland, Disney World and Chicago. He also used funds to attend the 2023 Super Bowl in Arizona, but the senator insisted that the tickets were a legitimate campaign fundraising expense.

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova calls for SJSU to dismiss volleyball coach amid allegations: 'Fire his a--!'

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:50:38 -0400

Women's tennis legend Martina Navratilova has called for San Jose State University (SJSU) to fire volleyball coach Todd Kress after Fox News Digital reported on a letter containing allegations against Kress by a former player that was sent to the school in fall 2024, during the team's highly-publicized transgender athlete scandal.

Navratilova re-shared an X post by U.S. women's swimming Olympic gold medalist Nancy Hogshead, criticizing the coach and university.

"Fire his a--!" Navratilova wrote in one post. In another, the tennis legend wrote, "This is truly sickening… this coach should have been fired yesterday!"

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Hogshead's original post wrote, "Sex discrimination rarely manifests in just one form," before referencing Kress's alleged handling of female and a trans player during his first two seasons leading the team.

Fox News Digital has reached out to SJSU and Kress for a response to Navratilova and Hogshead's comments.

Fox News Digital reported Tuesday that in October 2024, the SJSU athletic department received a letter from one of Kress’ former players at Fairfield University from 1998. The letter included allegations that Kress attacked her in a hotel room in 1998.

Emails show that SJSU officials acknowledged the receipt of the allegations, thanked the former player for coming forward and apologized for her experiences. Despite this, Kress was never suspended and has continued to serve as the head coach of the women's volleyball team.

Fox News Digital was given copies of the emails exchanged between SJSU and the former Fairfield player, from an independently verified source. Fox News Digital has independently verified she played at Fairfield under Kress in the 1998 season, but is not disclosing her name.

That first email she sent to SJSU contained the letter with the written allegations against Kress, that was originally sent to Fairfield University. The alleged incident occurred in a hotel after Fairfield’s loss to Clemson in the first round of the 1998 NCAA Tournament in December of that year. She wrote that a teammate asked her to bring her a shirt to Kress’ room.

"I told her I wanted no part of his insanity. I was distraught about the loss and wasn’t interested in his drunken insanity, which was commonplace on trips."

The former player added that her teammate "promised Todd would not throw water at me or do something juvenile so I reluctantly agreed to bring her the shirt."

"... I knocked on the door and Todd answered. He immediately took caramel from a plastic container and smeared it all over my face and hair. He then forcibly threw me on the bed and held me down. I was in shock. He let go of me and then pulled his pants down and put his back side in my face.

"Astonished... that is the only word I can think of to describe how I felt in that moment... Todd was drunk. I got up and went for the door.

"Todd again grabbed me, picked me up, and threw me into the bathtub where he held me down and threatened to turn on the shower with me laying there to ‘clean the caramel off of my face.’ At this point I was fighting back to get away from him.

US WOMEN OLYMPIANS REACT TO HISTORIC SUPREME COURT RULING ON THE PROTECTION OF WOMEN'S SPORTS

"Todd let me get out of the tub, laughing, and then he stood in front of the door blocking my exit. Todd told me he would only let me leave if I took a shot of liquor, which I did only to get him to move away from the door. Once he did, I ran for it. He chased me. I got into my room and although he seemed to be in a rage, he turned and calmly walked out," the letter alleges.

The former player goes on to allege her teammates "had been drinking with Todd underage." She also claimed she did not report the incident at the time because she "was scared of losing my scholarship and being the reason my teammates lost theirs."

On June 9, 2026, Fox News Digital submitted a formal public records request to San Jose State University seeking copies of the Oct. 24, 2024, complaint letter sent to Athletic Director Jeff Konya, the Nov. 1 follow-up email, and the subsequent Nov. 7 correspondence from the university's Title IX office.

On June 22, 2026, SJSU’s public records office formally denied the request. In a response issued by university legal counsel J. Leah Castella, the school acknowledged the existence of the records but determined they were not disclosable under the California Public Records Act.

"The requested communications implicate substantial privacy interests," the university's response stated.

"Disclosure of these records would therefore constitute an invasion of privacy that outweighs the public interest in disclosure. Specifically, these records are being withheld subject to the following exemptions: Personnel Records/Privacy... General Privacy Rights... [and the] Balancing Test. Here, the public interest served by disclosure is minimal and is outweighed by the public interest served against disclosure in protecting substantial and significant privacy rights."

Following the records denial, Fox News Digital sent a detailed press inquiry to Kress, Konya, Lim and Castella. The inquiry summarized the exact dates, timestamps and contents of the internal records obtained independently by Fox News Digital, and posed a series of explicit questions to the parties, including requests for Kress' response to the 1998 allegations, details on what specific next steps the Title IX office took following their November 2024 meetings, and whether athletic department officials interviewed current volleyball players regarding their safety.

The inquiry also questioned university legal counsel regarding the decision to classify the public interest in these safety warnings as "minimal" while the university is actively engaged in a federal lawsuit defending its Title IX compliance within the volleyball program. Fox News Digital has not sought judicial relief on SJSU’s claim.

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As of publication time, neither Kress, Konya, nor any legal or communications representatives for San Jose State University have responded to requests for comment.

Fox News Digital also reached out to Fairfield University for request for a response to the former player’s letter, but a spokesperson responded, writing, "The university does not comment on former or current personnel matters.

Chris Broussard says Team USA's World Cup loss to Belgium exposed the gap with soccer's elite

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:32:10 -0400

Chris Broussard joined Dan Dakich on Don't @ Me Tuesday morning to break down storylines surrounding the NBA and Team USA's sad collapse at the World Cup.

Broussard, co-host on the uber-popular "First Things First," weighed in on Jaylen Brown's value, LeBron James' future and the state of the USMNT.

Dakich asked whether the Celtics had grown tired of Brown and the narrative surrounding him.

CELTICS AGREE TO SEND JAYLEN BROWN, 2024 FINALS MVP, TO 76ERS IN BLOCKBUSTER NBA TRADE: REPORT

"No, I think it more boils down to this," Broussard said.

"Dan, analytically, I think he's great. He was on my All-NBA Second Team and fifth on my MVP ballot. But analytically, the numbers have never liked him.

"There are 23 active players with five or more All-Star appearances. He's one of them, but he ranks 22nd in career plus-minus and is one of only two, along with DeMar DeRozan, with a negative career plus-minus. Last year against Philadelphia, they were minus-24 with him on the court and plus-six with him off the court."

Brou argued that public perception doesn't always align with how NBA front offices evaluate players.

"Now, to me, I overlooked that," Broussard continued.

"But the Celtics are a very analytically driven front office, as are many teams in the league now. I feel like they don't think Jaylen was as good as the media thought he was and as all the accolades suggested. I think this was largely an analytics-driven decision where they felt like the numbers showed they could be better without him."

IT SURE SOUNDS LIKE LEBRON JAMES IS HEADING BACK TO CLEVELAND TO END HIS CAREER WITH THE CAVALIERS

Dakich then asked where the NBA's all-time leading scorer will finish his career.

While Denver and Minnesota could make sense from a basketball standpoint, Broussard thinks LeBron will return to the Eastern Conference for one final run.

"I think it's Cleveland. I think he wants to go home," Broussard predicted.

"One of his best friends is in the front office in Cleveland, Brandon Weems, who he grew up with. I think he looks at Cleveland as, one, a place where he has a chance to win. They could win the East, and we've seen the last few years that if you get there, you've got a shot. We saw that with Indiana.

"It's also a great place to finish. You talk about the perfect ending for a guy who has traveled around quite a bit. The perfect bow to wrap up this great career would be in Cleveland. If it was strictly basketball, you could make a case for Minnesota or Denver. But why stay in the West? Go to the East, where it's an easier path to the Finals."

Broussard also weighed in on the U.S. Men's National Team following its loss to Belgium.

While Mauricio Pochettino's arrival fueled optimism, Broussard said the team's recent run created a false sense of progress after victories over lower-ranked opponents.

"We've been wall-to-wall soccer on our show," Broussard said.

"I said this on the air this morning, Dan. My colleagues and I, and I think a lot of America, got drunk on sports patriotism. I started to think, 'Hey, we're definitely making the quarterfinals, and who knows, we might be able to do something magical.' Yesterday we found out there were levels to this.

"We simply got there against a much better team. We had to realize all those teams we beat — Paraguay, the No. 41-ranked team in the world; Australia, No. 27; Turkey, No. 22. Bosnia was No. 64. We stepped up to the big boys against Belgium, No. 9 in the world."

For Broussard, the loss served as a reality check, underscoring the gap between the United States and the world's elite soccer nations.

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"And we found out," Broussard concluded, "Pochettino has been asking, 'Why not us?' Here's why: we're not good enough. We just went up against a better team. By the end, I wasn't even mad because it was like, 'Hey, this is why we generally don't get past the Round of 16.' We're not good enough in soccer, and that's what we saw yesterday."

Send us your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com / Follow along on X: @alejandroaveela

Newsom tells Democrats to be in the 'addition not subtraction' business with socialists

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:23:19 -0400

Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom was the latest prominent Democratic figure on Sunday to embrace candidates endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) as socialists dominate primary elections.

Newsom told Jack Cocchiarella during a livestream on his YouTube channel that he rejects the idea that socialist candidates are a "threat" to the party, relating it to facing past "purity tests" while running for mayor of San Francisco in 2003.

"This is all familiar, and it's very healthy," Newsom said. "I don't think it's unhealthy. So, I completely reject this notion. And, look, I'm for addition, not subtraction.

"The Democratic Party needs to be in the addition business if we're going to get back into the majority. Yeah, we need to get our base out there. We got to turn out. … I'm not offended by this notion of a big tent.

DEMOCRATIC CONGRESSMAN WARNS OF 'DANGEROUS' SOCIALIST AGENDA AFTER FAR-LEFT PRIMARY WINS

"And I think it's important, though, that big tent is a big tent, because there's folks, you know, on this side that don't want folks on that. I think we'd be better off to look at the things that bind us together, the things we have in common.

"And I know the purity tests are going to get tougher and tougher in the next few years. But I am enthusiastic about the success and the energy and the vibrancy that's happening at the grassroots in this country. I think it's a healthy damn thing."

Newsom's comments echoed several other Democratic Party members who have supported welcoming socialist candidates into their "big tent" after a socialist sweep in New York's primary elections.

MAMDANI CLAIMS DEMOCRATIC SOCIALISTS CAN WIN ‘ANYWHERE’ AS DEMOCRATS FEUD OVER PARTY’S FUTURE

"We have a big tent party, that's what it says," Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., told Fox News Digital last month.

"This is a democracy," he continued. "You're going to have lots of perspectives. It's up to the voters to decide, and they did."

Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin also told Fox News Digital he was "all about new leadership" when asked about DSA-backed candidates like Darializa Avila Chevalier and Claire Valdez defeating incumbent candidates.

DEMOCRATIC INFIGHTING GROWS AS CONGRESSWOMAN EXPOSES ‘DISRESPECTFUL’ WELCOME OF SOCIALISTS INTO ‘BIG TENT’

Last month, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., issued a warning to her Democratic colleagues against discouraging socialist candidates.

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"I actually think the more important advice that I would give would be to my incumbent colleagues, which is you will create a self-fulfilling prophecy by deciding who these young women are before you've met them," Ocasio-Cortez said on MS NOW.

DHS buys two California migrant detention centers for $1.5B to boost ICE deportation capacity

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:22:36 -0400

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) purchased two migrant detention centers in California for $1.5 billion, the agency confirmed to Fox News Digital.

The sale of the 2,560-bed California City Detention Facility and the 1,994-bed Otay Mesa Detention Center, two of the largest immigrant detention centers in the Golden State, closed earlier this month, according to a press release from Tennessee-based CoreCivic, the private prison company that sold the facilities.

DHS said it used funds from President Donald Trump's spending bill signed last summer to purchase the facilities as the administration seeks to continue the president's mass deportation agenda.

"The Department of Homeland Security purchased the California City Detention Facility and the Otay Mesa Detention Center," a DHS spokesperson told Fox News Digital. "This purchase was made possible by President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill that allowed ICE to expand detention space to fulfill the president’s promise of mass deportations."

DHS MOVES ALL DETAINEES OUT OF ‘ALLIGATOR ALCATRAZ’ AMID HURRICANE CONCERNS

The facilities will equip the federal government with more resources to carry out Trump's immigration policies without relying on private prison companies. DHS says California's so-called sanctuary polices attempt to block immigration officials from using private prisons to hold migrants living in the country illegally.

"Unlike in states like Florida and Oklahoma, ICE cannot rely on local state and county partners for detention space in California," the DHS spokesperson said. "The state’s sanctuary politicians continue to push legislation to outlaw or make private prisons financially infeasible.

"Now, with federal ownership of these detention centers, which are crucial to ICE’s detention network on the West Coast, ICE retains the detention capacity needed to arrest, detain and remove illegal aliens."

CoreCivic said it expects net proceeds to be about $1.1 billion after income taxes and transaction expenses.

"We are pleased with the sales of these two mission-critical facilities for the company’s government partner, which demonstrates the value of the company’s underlying real estate portfolio, while reflecting our role as a long-term, flexible solutions provider to government," CoreCivic Chief Executive Patrick Swindle said in a statement.

"The sale of these facilities at what we believe is a fair valuation provides the company with significant balance sheet flexibility and positions us well to grow the company’s businesses and return value to its shareholders, while remaining a dependable partner for government."

The company said it expects to continue managing the two facilities under existing management contracts with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, although the terms of the management contracts could be modified to reflect the change in ownership.

APPEALS COURT BLOCKS TRUMP ADMIN FROM HOLDING MIGRANTS WITHOUT BOND FOR OVER 90 DAYS

The California City facility contract expires in August 2027, and the contract for the Otay Mesa facility, which is located in San Diego, expires in December 2029, with the option to extend for five more years.

CoreCivic said it is in discussions with ICE about potentially selling additional detention facilities, although it said those talks are in various stages and cannot provide assurances that those sales will happen.

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Eight ICE detention facilities are operating in California and combine to hold nearly 9,000 people.

The newly purchased California City and Otay Mesa facilities have both faced lawsuits by detainees over alleged mistreatment. CoreCivic has denied those allegations.

Jana Kramer shows off her toned abs in a bikini during patriotic Fourth of July lake weekend

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:06:41 -0400

Jana Kramer embraced all-American lake life over the Fourth of July weekend.

The country singer shared a look inside her holiday weekend, posting a carousel of lakefront moments with husband Allan Russell, their children and extended family.

Kramer captioned the post, "A little 4th of July weekend Photo dump."

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From boating and paddle boarding to jet skiing, swimming and fireworks, the family packed the long weekend with time on the lake.

The post opened with Kramer posing on a dock with Russell, a Scottish soccer coach.

Kramer showed off her toned figure in a blue bikini top paired with a white crochet cover-up skirt. She completed the patriotic look with layered red, white and blue beaded necklaces adorned with stars, plus sunglasses perched atop her head.

JANA KRAMER HAS TAKEN JOBS THAT CHALLENGED HER 'MORAL COMPASS' TO PAY FOR CHILD SUPPORT

Russell kept things casual in a gray sleeveless shirt, patterned swim trunks, white slides and an Americana-inspired cowboy hat.

The "I Got The Boy" singer also shared a sweet moment with daughter Jolie while paddle boarding on the lake.

The mother-daughter duo shared a playful moment on the paddle board, sticking their tongues out at each other while smiling. Kramer wore a brown string bikini while Jolie sported a bright pink-and-turquoise life jacket with a paddle in hand.

MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY FIRES UP AMERICANS WITH PATRIOTIC SPEECH FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY 250TH CELEBRATION

The Fourth of July weekend festivities also featured a mother-daughter jet ski ride.

Kramer and Jolie paused for a quick photo while cruising around the lake aboard a bright yellow jet ski. Both sported pink life jackets as they smiled at the camera.

Kramer later cooled off in the water while relaxing on a float.

The podcast host wore a pastel pink bikini and a baseball cap as she floated in the lake on blue-and-white inflatable arm floats. One of the kids swam beside her as the family spent the day in the water.

The holiday weekend also featured plenty of patriotic family style.

In one photo, Jolie, Jace and Roman posed by the lake decked out in red, white and blue. Jolie wore a blue bikini top with striped patriotic pants and an oversized red hat, while Jace and Roman held American flags in matching flag-themed swim trunks.

Kramer shares daughter Jolie and son Jace with ex-husband Mike Caussin. She welcomed son Roman with Russell in November 2023.

Kramer and Russell tied the knot in July 2024 during a traditional Scottish wedding in Scotland.

The holiday weekend marked a meaningful first for Russell's family, who joined the celebrations on the lake.

JANA KRAMER SAYS HOLDING ON TO TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS 'DRAINS YOU' UNTIL YOU ‘START LOSING YOURSELF' COMPLETELY

During an episode of her "Whine Down" podcast, Kramer said she woke up feeling "a little sad" on the Fourth of July because she missed spending the holiday up north with extended family.

"As much as I like, I missed and was sad, and the moment I had like the most incredible fourth It was so much fun," Kramer said. "We have such an amazing little cove of friends and neighbors that we've met."

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Kramer said the kids enjoyed time with friends on the lake, while Russell helped put on a fireworks show from the dock.

"Alan was down at the dock and lighting the fireworks, and all the neighbors came over and the kids with the sparklers," she said.

The singer also reflected on watching Russell's family experience their first Fourth of July celebration.

"This is their first Fourth of July they've ever celebrated, so that's the first time they've ever seen it," Kramer said. "I mean, there was just fireworks going off everywhere on the lake."

Kramer said seeing Russell surrounded by family made the weekend even more special.

"I see Alan's heart, like just having his family here, just it makes me so happy," she said.

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Researchers claim they've created healthier burgers that taste as good as a Big Mac

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:05:58 -0400

Researchers say they've trained an artificial intelligence (AI) system to create burgers that diners rated as highly as those offered by a world-famous fast-food chain.

Stanford University researchers fed 2,216 burger recipes from Food.com into their AI tool, BurgerAI, to generate new burger recipes.

Some of the AI-designed burgers matched or outperformed a reconstructed version of McDonald's Big Mac in blind taste tests, the researchers reported in a study published in npj Science of Food.

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BurgerAI generated a recipe resembling the Big Mac "without explicit supervision."

The researchers noted that the Big Mac "was never part of the initial training data." Instead, the AI arrived at a similar recipe by learning from people's taste preferences.

BurgerAI can also tailor burgers to be more nutritious, more environmentally sustainable and more personalized for gender, age and physical activity, according to a Stanford Report news release.

"Food choices are some of the most consequential decisions humans make every day," said Vahidullah Tac, a researcher who worked on the project.

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"Food was an easy motivator. With one arrow, you can hit two targets — planetary health and personal health. It's a great and impactful research area."

Ellen Kuhl, a Stanford professor of mechanical engineering who led the research, said most AI systems "are trained to predict what already exists.

"We wanted AI to invent what should exist next," Kuhl added.

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"BurgerAI does not ask, 'What burger is most likely?' It asks, 'What burger best satisfies these important and complex objectives?'"

Over 100 diners took part in a blind taste test of the AI burgers prepared by an executive chef at a San Francisco restaurant, the researchers said.

Compared with the Big Mac, BurgerAI's Delicious Burgers scored the same or better in overall liking, flavor and texture, the researchers wrote.

"Its mushroom burger achieves an environmental impact score more than an order of magnitude lower; and its bean burger attains nearly twice the nutritional score," the study said.

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"We expected some trade-off between sustainability and consumer acceptance," Tac said. "But we found a burger with dramatically lower environmental impact could still compete with one of the world's most successful burgers."

Fox News Digital reached out to McDonald's for comment on the findings.

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Generative AI has the potential to transform many areas beyond food, including pharmaceuticals and product design, the researchers said.

"For centuries, food design has been a matter of intuition, experience and trial and error," Kuhl said. "We are beginning to show that AI can transform food design into a quantitative science with applications in other important fields."

She added that the burger "is just the beginning."

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"We see food as a model system for a much larger vision: AI as a partner in scientific and engineering discovery."

Taylor Twellman goes off on Team USA after disastrous 4-1 loss to Belgium: 'Can't miss fundamentals'

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:05:31 -0400

The US Men's National Team entered Monday night's game against Belgium in Seattle with the highest expectations of any U.S. World Cup team in decades.

They had a mostly "golden generation" of players in their peaks, like Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic, Malik Tillman, and Sergino Dest. Folarin Balogun, arguably the best striker the US has had in recent memory, was also available for the must-win match after FIFA controversially postponed his red card suspension with some involvement from President Donald Trump.

Belgium was widely viewed as a "beatable" opponent. They'd trailed Senegal 2-0 in the 86th minute in the round of 32, before a ferocious, fortunate comeback led to a 3-2 victory deep in extra time after a questionable penalty allowed Youri Tielemans to slot home the winner. Their defense was seen as questionable, at best, and their "golden generation" had aged past their primes. Star forward Jeremy Doku was also out of the starting 11, seemingly giving the US back line an advantage.

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As it turns out, not only did the USMNT not have an advantage, they were hopelessly outplayed and outclassed by an organized, composed, aggressive Belgian attack. They created few good chances, facing a much better defensive structure without Kevin De Bruyne on the pitch. After tying the match on another fantastic free kick from Tillman, they conceded again in less than 70 seconds. There was a humiliating goalkeeper error when Matt Freese kicked the ground instead of the ball, leading to the third goal that effectively put the match away. 4-1 defeat, and little to show for it.

All that might be more forgivable, after all, Belgium is still a very good international team, if the USMNT had a clean match and were simply beaten by a better team. But they didn't just get beaten. They embarrassed themselves on the biggest stage they've ever had. Literally. And soccer analyst Taylor Twellman went off on the players and staff for the many, many, inexcusable mistakes.

He discussed what happened with Yahoo Sports! "The Cooligans" podcast after the loss, saying the team failed their first "real test."

"That was the first real test of the World Cup," he said. "What'd we get? Yeah, I mean, what'd we get?

"And listen, we've done stuff, right? We did stuff...[but] you can't make mistakes at the highest level. You can't miss fundamentals. The first two goals from Belgium. They make you want to...it's not an easy watch guys. That's not an easy watch...That's a 50-50 ball inside the 18 that Dest just looks around, lets it bounce. Run through it."

He continued, saying that he'd rather have players ready to "run through the wall" instead of being passive or unsure of themselves.

AFTER BLOWOUT LOSS TO BELGIUM, MANY ARE WONDERING IF TEAM USA IS BETTER OR WORSE THAN IT WAS A DECADE AGO

"And listen, everyone on social media talks about, oh, Sebastian Berhalter this...Give me 10 Sebastian Berhalters," he said. "They'll run through the wall, at least. You cannot forget fundamentals. The little things, that is gonna be, for that group of players, the most difficult pill to swallow. Because when you watch the tape, when you watch, the tape, it's not my experience, I watched it, that's a difficult one to swallow. Those are simple fundamentals and we missed all of them tonight. All of them."

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Not much to argue with there. Just look at the lack of defensive effort on Belgium's first goal, in the 10th minute. When the ball goes into the air, there are literally four US players around one Belgian player. Plus three more defenders nearby or in front of the goal. Somehow, that one Belgian player got by all of them, before threading a pass into an unmarked Charles De Ketelaere for the easiest shot of his life.

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Freese's error was compounded by Ream jumping to try and deflect an open shot on goal by Hans Vanaken, only to mostly whiff and see the ball roll directly into the net. On the second goal, De Ketelaere just outjumped two US defenders, while two other stood around helplessly.

These are fundamental problems that cannot happen at this level. Inexcusable, indefensible mistakes. There's a focus on managers and coaching in the international game, when managerial importance pales in comparison to having better players. Right now? The USMNT simply doesn't have enough good ones.

Sean Payton explored plan to make Bill Belichick Broncos' temporary head coach to reach milestone: report

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:50:11 -0400

Bill Belichick may be the University of North Carolina head football coach, but there was almost a plan to get him back in the NFL thanks to a fellow head coach he has great ties with.

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton and Bill Belichick go back years. Both served on Bill Parcells' staff, albeit at different times, before crossing paths as NFL head coaches.

In a detailed story about Payton and the Broncos’ playoff appearances last season, which ended with an AFC Championship Game loss to Belichick’s old New England Patriots, ESPN reported that Payton had the idea of going to Broncos owner Greg Penner with a plan to hire Belichick as the team’s temporary head coach until he reached 15 wins.

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That exact win total would’ve had Belichick pass the great Don Shula for the all-time coaching wins record.

The report indicated that Payton would’ve still been on the staff as the assistant head coach, and once Belichick reached the win total, Payton would take back over as head coach.

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Ultimately, Payton didn’t officially make the offer to Penner, deciding it would’ve been too complicated and Belichick would’ve also had to agree on his end.

There hasn’t been anything like it in football, but it brings about the question again regarding Belichick’s history in the league, which has been a hot topic since he and the Patriots parted ways.

Belichick’s impact on football is second to none, though it became clouded during the most recent Pro Football Hall of Fame voting as he found himself at the center of controversy.

Belichick wasn’t a first-ballot Hall of Famer, with the likes of Tom Brady and others dumbfounded by the fact the coach with the second-most wins in history wasn’t getting his bust already made for the halls in Canton, Ohio. But some voters considered the controversy that swirled around Belichick during his time in Foxborough, which included Spygate, and believed he wasn’t worthy of the honor yet.

Since he left the NFL, many have wondered whether Belichick would ever pass Shula's win total. That question remained even after he took North Carolina's vacant job, his first as a college head coach.

And it still hovers over Belichick’s legacy, especially after his firm stance that he will be seeing his role with the Tar Heels into his second season despite murmurs that he would entertain NFL head coaching vacancies following the 2025 season.

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As of now, Belichick is content leading the way in Chapel Hill, while Payton aims to get the Broncos back to the Super Bowl in 2026.

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New report suggests the New York Mets are open to trading Francisco Lindor amid disastrous season

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:45:13 -0400

The 2026 Major League Baseball season is somehow already more than halfway over, and it's been yet another example of the difficulty in predicting baseball outcomes.

Case in point? The New York Mets.

The Mets are one of baseball's richest teams. Billionaire owner Steve Cohen, after taking control in 2020, committed to building a model organization, combining immense financial resources with established front office success. Starting with the 2022 season, the Mets have spent more on player payroll than any other team in baseball at $1.671 billion. Yes, even more than the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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They gave star shortstop Francisco Lindor a 10-year, $341 million contract before the 2022 season. They signed Max Scherzer to one of the highest average annual value contracts in baseball history. Late in the 2023 season, Cohen hired Dave Stearns from the Milwaukee Brewers to overhaul the front office. Stearns had built the Brewers into a consistent contender, despite the inherent payroll limitations in a small market.

Yet as the highest spending team in baseball over the past five seasons, the Mets have just two postseason appearances to show for it. They lost to the Padres in the 2022 wild card series, then to the Dodgers in the 2024 NLCS. In 2023, despite all their money and star power, they went just 75-87 and finished 29 games out of first place. After 2024, Stearns and Cohen added Juan Soto on the most expensive contract in sports history; 15-years and $765 million, with the potential to exceed $800 million.

The reward? Missing the playoffs again in 2025 after an 83-79 regular season.

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Stearns, instead of running it back in 2026 with a similar roster, went for an overhaul. Pete Alonso signed with the Baltimore Orioles. Brandon Nimmo was traded to the Texas Rangers for Marcus Semien. They traded two prospects to Milwaukee for Freddy Peralta, signed closer Devin Williams, brought in Bo Bichette and Jorge Polanco after strong seasons, added Luke Weaver, and traded for Luis Robert Jr.

How's it worked out? Well, to put it one way, entering Tuesday, the Mets were just ahead of the Colorado Rockies for the worst record in the National League. They've been outscored by 60 runs on the season thus far, sit dead last in the National League East, 15 games behind the Braves, and their odds of reaching the postseason have dropped to just 2%, per FanGraphs.

It's a disaster, to put it mildly. A $370 million disaster. And a new report from baseball writer Jon Heyman suggests that the Mets might be ready to blow it up yet again.

Heyman posted on X recently that the team's "deadline sale" is likely to start any day. "Time for Mets deadline sale to begin," he wrote. "Everyone but Ewing, Benge, McLean, Scott and Soto should be made available."

Several notable names are missing from that list: namely, Bichette, Robert Jr., Peralta, Williams, and of course, Francisco Lindor. Those are some big players. And dealing any or all of them would be a stunning admission of a prolifically failed plan. Then there's the other side of it; how much value do these players even have?

Bichette has been a below average hitter this season, and is owed $84 million over the next two seasons, all but guaranteed now with his player option. Lindor has missed most of the year with injury, but has been below average himself thus far. Robert, too, has missed most of the season and has been unimpressive when healthy.

But there are few true sellers, and if the Mets really do make their stars available, there might be a team or two willing to take on a portion of those salaries in order to potentially separate from their competitors. Cohen has previously said he doesn't want Lindor going anywhere. Though he might be thinking that, after spending billions without much reward, a full tear down is the only path forward.

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Lindor, at 32, would bring a decent return, though given his enormous contract, it would likely be less than most fans would expect. Same with Bichette, whose exorbitant salary and player options limit his appeal. It doesn't take much, though, to dream on those two stars returning to form and making a meaningful difference in reaching the playoffs or making a deep postseason run.

Still, it's hard to believe it's come to this. The Mets were supposed to be the East Coast version of the Dodgers; a marriage of high salaries and organizational competence. Instead, they're heading toward yet another October spent at home, and still searching for their first division title since 2015.

Money can buy a lot, but as the 2026 Mets demonstrate, it can't buy everything.

A beach in Australia is dealing with a serious case of space balls (not the Mel Brooks kind)

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:42:40 -0400

There was a golden era of stuff washing up on beaches, but the internet has ruined it. Now, you just snap a photo, throw it on Reddit, and within twenty minutes someone is like, "That's a muffler from Volkswagen Rabbit with seaweed stuck to it.

Not as much mystery anymore, which is why it was refreshing when an Australian beach found itself coming down with a case of space balls.

And no, it wasn't to commemorate Mel Brooks' 100th birthday (Happy belated birthday!) or some guerrilla marketing stunt to drum up excitement for the upcoming film, "Spaceballs: The New One.

RARE CANNONBALL EMERGES FROM GROUND AT THE ALAMO, LIKELY UNTOUCHED FOR NEARLY 190 YEARS

This week, a few big, metallic balls appeared on a beach in North Queensland, Australia, with Queensland Fire and Rescue warning people to stay away from the mysterious objects.

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"Queensland Fire and Rescue crews are continuing to assist partner agencies following the discovery of several potentially hazardous objects around Forrest Beach in North Queensland," they said on social media.

While they're not some kind of alien technology that will unlock the next step in human evolution like the monoliths in "2001: A Space Odyssey," it turns out that these balls are genuinely from space.

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The Australian Space Agency says that they believe the space balls are actually pressure vessels used in a space launch.

"The recovered objects appear to be pressure vessels from a space launch vehicle," a spokesperson told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. "The Agency has identified the likely source — objects' location and characteristics are consistent with debris from a foreign rocket body that recently re-entered the atmosphere from orbit."

The agency is working with international counterparts to determine whose space balls were washing up on their shores.

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And if you ever stumble apon space junk and think you're just going to take it home with you and put it on display in your office to impress guests — as has always been my plan

"Never touch, move, or recover suspected space debris and assume it to be hazardous — move away and contact emergency services," the agency said.

Ryan Seacrest reveals why he backed out of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding at the last minute

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:28:38 -0400

A longtime TV personality came painfully close to attending one of Hollywood's most exclusive celebrations before a scheduling conflict derailed his plans.

Ryan Seacrest revealed he reluctantly skipped Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding after a scheduling conflict left him with "no choice."

"I RSVP’d to go, and then Disney hired me to do the Fourth of July 250 special on the 3rd and the 4th," the radio host confessed Monday during his show, "On Air With Ryan Seacrest." "So I had to cancel."

TAYLOR SWIFT AND TRAVIS KELCE'S WEDDING LEAKS SNOWBALL AS GUESTS REVEAL INSIDE DETAILS

His co-hosts, Sisanie and Tanya Rad, were shocked to hear about Seacrest's invite after the 51-year-old kept it a secret. Sisanie even joked it was a "waste of an invite."

Seacrest defended himself, saying, "I was actually really excited. I was kind of torn."

"I'm like how – I tried to do both ... I tried to go to the wedding and prepare for that show, but we started live on the third so I couldn't."

The "American Idol" host said he even mapped out the logistics before throwing in the towel.

"Trust me, Tanya. I went through the minutes," Seacrest explained. "I couldn't have done both. And the actual wedding was in the afternoon. I went through the minutes."

TAYLOR SWIFT AND TRAVIS KELCE'S WEDDING: LEAKED DETAILS REVEAL INSIDE LOOK AS PHOTOS CAPTURE A-LIST DEPARTURES

Although he couldn't make it, Seacrest recalled one conversation with the bride that made canceling even harder.

"But I was so honored and thrilled to be invited," he said. "And you know the irony was, after I RSVP'd to the wedding, I saw them at dinner at a restaurant, and we talked about the 'event' – because we didn't say it out loud – the 'event' and she said 'Oh, It's going to be so much fun. We're going to have the best time. It's going to go late.' I'm like, 'I cannot wait. I'm so excited.'"

Looking back, Seacrest said he was all in from the beginning.

"I RSVP'd yes. I saw them a couple of weeks later to confirm," he clarified. "Then I had to cancel. But I had no choice."

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Swift and Kelce married on July 3 in front of 1,000 guests at Madison Square Garden, a representative for the pop star told Fox News Digital. The two opted not to have a traditional wedding party, instead choosing to have Swift's brother as her "Man of Honor" and Kelce's brother as his "Best Man."

Swift's rep revealed the couple's wedding ceremony looks were designed by Jonathan Anderson of Christian Dior Haute Couture. The "Life of a Showgirl" singer accessorized with Cartier.

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.

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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."

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Immigrant truck driver admitted to US under Biden allegedly kills UMass soccer star, spoke no English

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:43:54 -0400

An Uzbek commercial truck driver admitted to the United States via a diversity lottery killed a star college soccer goalie in Ohio over the weekend and had to use Google Translate to speak with state troopers who arrived at the deadly scene, sources told Fox News.

Bekhzod Asrarov, 42, rammed the back of a vehicle on Interstate 71 in Madison County, resulting in the death of Tobias "Toby" Forsythe, 21, who played goalkeeper for the University of Massachusetts at Lowell, Fox is told.

When Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers arrived at the scene, Asrarov, who holds a commercial driver's license (CDL) from Ohio, tried ripping off the dash camera and tried to destroy it by smashing it, sources said.

He also tried to smash and destroy his three phones and his logging device, Fox is told.

VIRGINIA BUS CRASH THAT KILLED FIVE INVOLVED DRIVER WHO DOESN'T SPEAK ENGLISH, DUFFY SAYS

Asrarov entered the United States during the Biden administration in 2024 via the diversity visa lottery program.

"We cannot let truckers like Asrarov, who can't read our road signs or speak to law enforcement, drive 80,000-pound rigs on America’s highways," Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy wrote on X.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Ohio Department of Transportation.

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Forsythe, an economics major, joined the UMass Lowell River Hawks in 2026 after playing for Ashland University for two seasons and Shawnee State, where he started all 17 games in 2025, the university said in a news release announcing his death.

"Our entire athletics department is heartbroken by Toby's passing," said UMass Lowell athletic director Lynn Coutts. "Although Toby's time as a River Hawk was cut far too short, he left a meaningful impact and will always be remembered as a cherished member of our UMass Lowell family."

UMass Lowell head coach Kyle Zenoni said Forsythe showed up to the pitch every day to compete and improve as a player.

"He never looked for shortcuts and never expected anything to be given to him – he simply wanted the opportunity to earn it," Zenoni said. "Our hearts are with Toby’s family, friends, teammates and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. We will forever be grateful that Toby was part of our River Hawk family and we will honor his memory by carrying forward the example he set."

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The Trump administration has intensified efforts to revoke the CDLs of immigrant truck drivers who are not proficient in English, calling them a danger to the road.

Most recently, a Haitian national who authorities said remained in the U.S. despite being ordered to leave was charged in the death of a Pennsylvania State Police trooper who was conducting a commercial vehicle inspection along Interstate 81 last week.

Trump administration plans new ICE holding facility near Louisiana deportation flight hub

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:19:04 -0400

The Trump administration plans to open a new migrant holding facility next to an airport hub in Louisiana, potentially allowing the federal government to speed up deportations of families and unaccompanied children.

A holding facility with 528 beds is set to open in Alexandria, Louisiana, near the Alexandria International Airport (AEX), according to The Associated Press.

The proximity to the airport is believed to make it easier for federal immigration officials to house illegal immigrants and unaccompanied children during final flight preparations, the outlet reported.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement is describing the new Louisiana facility as a "staging area" and not a detention center, saying migrants would only be held there for a few days at most.

NEW YORKER SUING ICE AFTER OFFICERS WENT TO HIS HOME TO WARN HIM OVER CRITICISM OF AGENCY

"England Airpark is a staging facility for deportations. A staging facility is where illegal aliens await their deportation flight to their destination country or transfer to a detention facility," a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said in a statement to Fox News Digital.

Fox News Digital reached out to the White House, which deferred to DHS.

Airpark officials at the airfield where the structure is being built said the facility is a "humanitarian effort" for families who are "self-deporting." Immigration advocates say families and unaccompanied children sometimes decide to leave due to pressure or a lack of an understanding of their options, The AP reported.

The facility would be stationed next to the nation's largest hub for deportations.

More than 4,400 immigration enforcement flights came to and from the Alexandria International Airport last year, according to data from the ICE Flight Monitor, an initiative of Human Rights First.

ICE documents say families and children at the facility "are in the legal custody of ICE and can only be released at the direction of ICE."

The agency has told contractors that families at the facility should not be referred to as prisoners, detainees or inmates, records show.

Contractors were instructed not to utilize bars or cages when transporting families and unaccompanied children. The facility will not be required to take headcounts and should allow families to wear their own clothes, the agency said.

Unaccompanied children are typically not taken to facilities overseen by ICE and must instead be placed in the care of state-licensed shelters and foster care programs, which are run by the Office of Refugee Resettlement in the Department of Health and Human Services. But that agency is not involved in the new facility’s operation, a spokesperson at the airfield where the facility is being built told The Associated Press.

The facility would be run by a nonprofit arm of LaSalle Corrections, a private prison contractor, according to Ralph Hennessy, executive director of the England Airpark Authority, who said it could be operational as early as next month.

"These are people that are volunteering to go back home, and they’re going back home as a family unit," Hennessy told The Associated Press.

ICE signed a contract late last month to build the facility at the former military base near Alexandria International Airport, Hennessy said.

APPEALS COURT BLOCKS TRUMP ADMIN FROM HOLDING MIGRANTS WITHOUT BOND FOR OVER 90 DAYS

The facility would operate as a 72-hour holding center for migrants awaiting deportation, records show, according to The Associated Press.

LaSalle Corrections runs several private prisons and federal immigration detention centers throughout the south, including the "Louisiana Lockup" inside the state’s maximum-security prison in Angola.

The official contractor for the new ICE holding facility will be the company's nonprofit arm, the LaSalle Family Foundation, but LaSalle Corrections will be involved in operating the holding facility and ensuring compliance, according to the company’s chief financial officer, Tim Kurpiewski.

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Since April, two detainee deaths have been reported at a LaSalle-run ICE facility in the state.

Winn Correctional Center was also found last month to have violated standards regarding environmental health and safety, food service, use of force, medical care and other concerns, according to the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Skip Bayless pushes back on Stephen A's claim that 'three white dudes' can't win an NBA Championship together

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:10:29 -0400

Longtime sports commentator Skip Bayless thinks the newly assembled Los Angeles Lakers have a chance to be very good — even if they're building around three, gasp, white dudes.

Bayless posted a video to social media on Monday responding to his former debate partner, Stephen A. Smith, who mocked the Lakers for trying to win with "three white dudes." Smith argued that NBA history shows it takes multiple "black brothers" to win a championship.

He doubled down on those comments last week.

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"I ain't backing down," Smith said. "In NBA history, when has a team led by three White dudes ever gone to the promised land? Somebody gotta say it."

Is that so?

Bayless defended Smith, insisting the comments "were not racist," though the premise of Smith's argument is undeniably based on race. Still, Bayless rejected Smith's conclusion.

According to Bayless, it isn't about whether a team has three white players. It's about whether it has the right three white players. He believes the Lakers could have exactly that with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler.

"This isn't a group you can dismiss as just three typical white dudes because there's nothing typical about any of these three," Bayless argued.

"Could these Lakers be the third-best team in the Western Conference? Sure, they could. Look at how these three fit together."

He concluded, "As right as Stephen A. is about history, it's also possible these three snowflakes have the potential to shatter that mold."

The fact that this is even a legitimate sports debate says plenty about the current state of sports media. It also exposes an obvious racial double standard.

Imagine a white broadcaster asking whether an NFL team could ever win a Super Bowl with a black quarterback, black head coach and black general manager simply because it hadn't happened before. Stephen A. Smith would almost certainly be among the first demanding consequences for that commentator. ESPN should hold Smith accountable for applying the same racial logic here, but no one expects that to happen.

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Smith's argument also falls apart on its own merits.

The NBA is roughly 75% to 80% black. Naturally, there are fewer elite white players available to build around. That doesn't mean they don't exist.

Nikola Jokic has arguably been the best player in basketball for the better part of six seasons. Luka Doncic is one of the league's premier superstars. Cooper Flagg looks like the NBA's next great young player.

Pair Jokic and Doncic with a high-level complementary player like Austin Reaves, and that team would instantly contend for a championship. Jokic already carried Denver to a title in 2023 with far less talent around him than that hypothetical trio would have.

The issue isn't that teams cannot win with three white players, as if black players possess some unique championship gene. It's simply that, because of the league's demographics, no franchise has yet assembled three white stars of that caliber at the same time.

The same statistical reality explains why the NFL has never produced a Super Bowl-winning trio of a black quarterback, black head coach and black general manager. Representation matters when the pool of candidates is smaller.

The notion that race alone determines who can win championships, which is the underlying logic behind Smith's comments, is simply false. Judging athletic potential through a racial lens is, by definition, racial stereotyping.

That doesn't necessarily make Stephen A. Smith a racist. More often than not, he comes across as someone willing to say almost anything to dominate the news cycle. That's especially true now that Pat McAfee has overtaken him as ESPN's biggest personality.

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Smith wanted attention. His routine about the Lakers' "three white dudes" certainly got it. It also made him look like a buffoon.

Credit Bayless for pushing back. In today's sports media landscape, there aren't many commentators willing to challenge racial narratives when the target is "white dudes."

Buy it for life: Durable products worth every dollar (now on sale)

Mon, 04 May 2026 10:21:55 -0400

If you're investing in quality, it should last. These durable picks — from Levi's jeans to DeWalt tools and U.S.-made Lodge cast iron pans — are built for constant use, making them smart buys you won't need to replace anytime soon.

Workwear and clothing

If you wear your favorites on repeat, these pieces are built to keep up.

Levi's 505 regular fit jeans: $36.78 (51% off)

Original price: $74.95

Levi's is known for denim that stands the test of time — and often gets better with age. Its 505 men's jeans offer a comfortable fit with room to move, while the fabric holds its shape over time. The women's 501 jeans deliver a similar relaxed fit through the hip and thigh without feeling baggy.

Dickies men's relaxed-fit carpenter jeans: $23.99 (31% off)

Original price: $34.99

Work comfortably in Dickies carpenter jeans designed with a relaxed fit that moves with you. The tapered leg fits over boots, while the triple stitching helps them hold up through long days. For a more flexible option, Dickies Flex work pants offer stretch and moisture-wicking performance.

Kitchen gear

Stock your kitchen with tools that handle everyday cooking without wearing out.

Lodge cast iron skillet: $69.99 (13% off)

Original price: $79.99

Cook with confidence using this Lodge cast iron skillet, made in the U.S. for long-lasting durability. The 10.25-inch size is a versatile everyday option, and it's now 30% with code SHOP20. It comes pre-seasoned, allowing you to use it right out of the box.

Le Creuset cast iron Dutch oven: $334.91 (30% off)

Original price: $479.95

Built to last for years, this Le Creuset Dutch oven does it all — from roasting and braising to baking bread — and it's now $145 off on Amazon. The enameled cast iron retains heat for even cooking and cleans up easily, while the signature colors make it a standout in any kitchen.

Home basics

Replace worn-out basics with durable upgrades that last, from mattress toppers to towels.

Nautica towels, 6-pack: $45.99 (23% off)

Original price: $59.99

Refresh your bathroom with this six-piece Nautica towel set made from 100% cotton. The fabric absorbs water quickly while staying soft, and the matching set keeps your space looking coordinated.

Bamboo mattress topper: $37.89 (46% off)

Original price: $69.99

Add extra comfort to your bed with this bamboo mattress topper. The soft, cushioned layer sits on top of your mattress for more support, and it's machine watchable for easy, long-term use.

Beckham Hotel Collection pillows, 2-pack: $59.99 (25% off)

Original price: $79.99

Bring a hotel-style feel to your bedroom with these pillows that stay fluffed and spring back each morning. The cooling cover helps keep you comfortable without flipping to the cool side. According to Amazon, more than 40,000 pairs were bought in the past month alone, showing just how popular they are.

Tools and everyday gear

Tools aren't cheap, so invest in durable options from brands like DeWalt, Black+Decker and Milwaukee.

DeWalt drill and driver set: $169 (32% off)

Original price: $249

DeWalt is known for professional-grade tools, and this drill and driver set delivers. Long-lasting batteries keep both tools running for extended use, while built-in LED lights help you work in low-light spaces.

Milwaukee tool set, 8-pieces: $855.12 (22% off)

Original price: $1,099

Save $244 on this Milwaukee 8-piece tool set. It includes multiple saws, drills, drivers and even a leaf blower, all powered by two high-performance batteries. A storage bag keeps everything organized.

Energizer LED flashlight: $21.49 (32% off)

Original price: $31.49

Light your way with this Energizer LED flashlight that runs up to 15 hours on a single set of batteries. The shatterproof lens and drop-resistant design make it a reliable everyday tool.

Igloo Trailmate cooler: $69.99 (30% off)

Original price: $99.99

Pack for outdoor trips with the Igloo Trailmate cooler. Thick insulated walls help keep ice colder longer, while rubber latches and a padlock-ready design provides peace of mind.

Footwear

You wear shoes every day, so choose pairs built to last. Timberland and New Balance make durable styles that hold up.

Timberland PRO men's Pit Boss work boot: $109.99 (29% off)

Original price: $155

Protect your feet on the job with Timberland’s steel-toe work boots. The cushioned sole supports feet, while the heat-resistant rubber outsole provides traction and stability on slick surfaces.

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New Balance women's 608 cross trainers: $64.99 (19% off)

Original price: $79.99

Keep moving comfortably in these New Balance sneakers built with thick cushioning and a supportive feel. The durable rubber outsold stands up to daily walks, workouts and more.

If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.

'F---ING IDIOTS': Top female operatives torch Platner enablers as rape allegation rocks Dem campaign

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:24:13 -0400

Neera Tanden and Shannon Watts, a pair of top Democratic political operatives, are calling on Maine Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner to step down amid a bombshell rape allegation that emerged Monday.

Tanden, the CEO of the Center for American Progress, a center-left think tank that had deep ties to the Biden and Obama administrations, has been critical of Platner for months.

"I will remain incredibly angry at the people who didn’t vet this candidate, but in life you don’t get the best choices. Unless people show a lot more courage than they have," Tanden said in an X post that was re-upped Monday.

TOP PLATNER ALLY TURNS ON HIM AFTER BOMBSHELL RAPE ALLEGATION ROCKS CAMPAIGN: 'RED LINE'

In addition to calling for his removal, Tanden and Watts are also strongly cautioning the party about its next move as the state nears the Nov. 3 general election.

Platner, who has fended off stories about a Nazi tattoo, past online comments on race and relational infidelity, came under renewed fire Monday afternoon when Politico reported that he had allegedly raped a former girlfriend, Jenny Racicot, while heavily intoxicated after allegedly being told repeatedly to stop.

She also went on CNN Monday evening shortly after the report was published to tell host Jake Tapper that "by dictionary definition" Platner "raped" her.

"I thought, here's a man who was drunk and who, by dictionary definition, raped me. And he's blaming drunk women," Racicot said. "So, I just felt like that was a very odd take to have on that. And I also feel like, with all of the comments that he made about women, sexual assault, rape, even, um, you know, the comments that he had made that was in The New York Times article about, you know, threatening people with rape, like, why does this person have this issue, like scattered throughout their life, throughout their commentary, like it‘s on their mind?"

Platner has denied the allegations, calling them "troubling, serious, and false."

The Platner campaign posted a video on X shortly after the Politico story published where Platner again called the allegations "false," adding he was going to "reflect" on the best path forward.

"So, regardless of the inaccuracy of the reporting, but mindful the political reality it will inflict, we are taking the time to reflect on the best path forward for the state that I love, the people that I love, the movement I belong to, and the goal of defeating Susan Collins," Platner says in the video. "Those were the goals when we launched this campaign, and they remain my goals today."

Watts, who has grown in prominence through advocacy with her gun control organization, Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, immediately highlighted the story, criticizing party figures who, in her view, had blown past warning signs about Platner’s behavior.

"MAYBE LISTEN TO WOMEN IN THE PARTY YOU F------ IDIOTS!!!!" Watts wrote in a post on X.

"Who endorsed him despite the fact that he said bigoted, racist and sexist things online? Despite his Totenkopf tattoo? Despite accusations of domestic assault? Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Ruben Gallego, Martin Heinrich, Ro Khanna. Who am I missing?" Watts added.

EXPLOSIVE SEXUAL ASSAULT ALLEGATION ROCKS PLATNER CAMPAIGN AHEAD OF KEY DEADLINE IN CRUCIAL SENATE RACE

With the state Democratic Party calling on Platner to step aside, Watts wasted little time setting her sights on a possible replacement.

She began striking out against letting someone like Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., handpick an alternative.

"Bernie Sanders — the worst judge of character in history — hasn’t yet condemned the fatally flawed candidate he forced upon the Dem Party in Maine, likely causing us to lose the Senate. Why? He’s going to try and hold us hostage until we pick his other sh---- candidate," Watts wrote, likely referring to Troy Jackson, another progressive in the state.

Notably, Sanders dropped his endorsement of Platner on Tuesday and called on Platner to drop out of the race.

Jackson, a former Maine Senate president, faces allegations of his own, having reportedly gotten into a physical altercation with a female colleague, according to Progressive Victory, an advocacy group.

"So no, we’re not going to pick this f------ guy," Watts wrote in another post, highlighting Progressive Victory’s statement on Jackson.

Tanden also hinted at her disapproval at the idea of swapping Platner out with another up-and-coming progressive.

"Isn’t the most democratic thing to do here is select the candidate who won the most votes in the Gov’s race? I think they were all pretty good, but that might be the most credible with voters," Tanden wrote.

Like Watts, Tanden criticized voices suggesting Jackson might be a suitable alternative.

SANDERS BREAKS SILENCE ON PLATNER, CALLS ON SCANDAL-PLAGUED PROGRESSIVE TO 'STEP ASIDE'

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"Maybe the people who got us into this mess should take a beat on the right path for the future. And I say that with the utmost respect to Ro Khanna," Tanden said, highlighting a post from Khanna that noted Jackson’s achievements just hours after the news about Platner had broken.

Khanna, who had fiercely supported Platner, rescinded his endorsement on Monday along with several other high-profile Democrats, who are calling on Platner to drop out of the race.

Graham Platner's most prominent press allies abandon him as rape allegation rocks Maine Senate race

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:00:05 -0400

Many left-leaning media figures who supported Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner jumped ship on Monday after a rape allegation prompted his most prominent supporters in the press to call for the Democrat to suspend his campaign.

Politico published a bombshell report Monday on one of Platner's exes alleging he sexually assaulted her during their relationship. Jenny Racicot claimed that, in 2021, a drunk Platner entered her home uninvited and had sex with her despite her repeatedly telling him to stop. She also told CNN the alleged encounter, which Platner has denied, was the "dictionary definition" of rape.

The allegations have promoted an about-face from many high-profile media figures who previously stood by Platner despite Nazi tattoo allegations, accusations of rape fantasies, heavy drinking and a previous New York Times report about "unsettling" behavior toward women.

HOW GRAHAM PLATNER'S CAMPAIGN UNRAVELED: FROM REDDIT POSTS TO RAPE ALLEGATION

Former Obama staffer and "Pod Save America" co-host Jon Favreau vehemently defended Platner in April.

"Graham Platner isn’t just our best and only chance to beat Susan Collins, he’s a good, decent man who’s struggled and grown and is always trying to do better. I hope everyone with reservations takes a little time to get to know the real life version of him, not what the algorithm throws in our faces," Favreau wrote.

Favreau pivoted less than three months later, calling for Platner to step aside.

"Platner needs to drop out ASAP - these are awful, credible allegations. Said on the pod after the (also credible) June NYT story that his biggest problem going forward would be credibility. It's now abundantly clear that he just hasn't been honest about his past and can't be trusted as a candidate for office. Saving grace is that the party can find a replacement by the 27th as long as he drops by the 13th, which I very much assume he will," he wrote on Monday.

Indeed, under Maine law, Platner can be replaced on the ballot if he withdraws by 5 p.m. on July 13, with the state party allowed to put forward a replacement by July 27.

Far-left commentator Krystal Ball once declared, "Senator Platner cannot arrive soon enough," but she had a change of heart.

"I agree that Platner should drop out. The allegations are horrible and I see no reason why his accuser would lie. Some things have to be beyond the pale," Ball posted on Monday.

The Bulwark founder Sarah Longwell called for Platner to exit the race on Monday, only two months after the anti-Trump publication published a piece suggesting he had a strong chance to be the 2028 Democratic presidential candidate.

"Right now, today, I give Graham Platner a 1-in-3 chance to be the next Democratic nominee. For president," Bulwark editor Jonathan V. Last wrote in May.

While Last was not advocating Platner be selected, the anti-Trump site was mocked online for the prognostication, leading Longwell to lash out at critics and claim the site had always been "extremely Platner-skeptical."

Longwell admitted in an interview with Tim Miller that she was motivated to have Platner leave the race in part because she wants Democrats to win the House and Senate in 2026, "and I think, as a moral matter, when someone is credibly accused of rape, that's game over."

The Bulwark's X account describes the site as "free of tribal prejudices."

HASAN PIKER TURNS ON PLATNER, SAYS HE BELIEVES SEXUAL ASSAULT ACCUSER AND PREDICTS 'CURTAINS' FOR CAMPAIGN

New York Times opinion columnist Michelle Goldberg wrote Monday that she "deeply" regrets an earlier column praising Platner. Goldberg, who profiled Platner favorably during his rise in Maine Democratic politics, revisited her assessment in a new column after Platner's former girlfriend accused him of rape.

"Last October, when stories about Platner’s tattoo and Reddit posts first broke, I went to Maine to write about him. I tried to convey what I saw: a campaign that was electrifying angry Maine voters. But I deeply regret that, impressed by Platner’s political charisma, I wrote that he was 'nothing like the edgelord caricature I encountered online.' If anything, he seems to be significantly worse," Goldberg wrote.

Author Naomi Klein, whose upcoming book is titled "End Times Fascism," apologized to followers on Tuesday for failing to do her "due diligence on Platner before offering high praise for his communication skills."

"Enough was out there at the time that I should have been more cautious," Klein wrote.

"I'm truly sorry I disappointed folks who trust me to be more careful," she continued. "Most of all I'm sorry to the women who came forward only to be disbelieved and smeared. You deserved better and I feel absolutely gutted."

Meanwhile, MS NOW’s Antonia Hylton suggested it was initially hard for Democrats to abandon Platner because his first accuser was "associated with right-wing politics," referring to Lyndsey Fifield.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE

Far-left Twitch streamer Hasan Piker also broke with Platner on Monday, saying "the accusations — they are as credible as it is going to get."

"This is beyond red flags. This is irredeemable," Piker added during his livestream.

In addition to media pundits, high-profile Democrats have called on Platner to leave the race, including Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.; Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.; and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

VoteVets, an organization that works to elect Democratic veterans, also withdrew its endorsement of Platner, who served in multiple overseas deployments.

Platner has denied the allegations and has not announced his plans.

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Fox News Digital’s Adam Pack, Paul Steinhauser, Rachel del Guidice and Jessica Sonkin contributed to this report.

Support your team with these World Cup must-haves, from jerseys to collectibles

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:04:32 -0400

We're deep into the World Cup's Round of 16, but there's still time to show your team spirit before the tournament ends. Shop FIFA T-shirts, celebrate your favorite players with collectible figurines and score officially licensed jerseys.

Official FIFA World Cup Merch

Although the U.S. is no longer in the tournament, you can still show your team spirit with this FIFA-themed merch.

2026 FIFA World Cup sticker box: $50

Collectors and soccer fans can get 25 official World Cup stickers in this one box. Inside includes national teams, popular players, federation logos, stadiums and more. With more than 10,000 bought in the last month, you can join other fans in celebrating the tournament.

adidas FIFA World Cup 26 soccer ball: $24.99

Get your very own FIFA-branded soccer ball for just $25. It has the officially licensed World Cup trophy and 2026 branding throughout. The seamless surface offers a better touch when you're on the pitch and the ball holds its shape during play.

FIFA World Cup 2026 T-shirt: $50

Catch all the matches in this colorful World Cup T-shirt. The back features a bold design highlighting the cities where the tournament is taking place, while the front gives a subtle nod to FIFA. Its lightweight fabric keeps you comfortable all day.

World Cup gear from top soccer players

This World Cup marks the final tournament for legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa, making now the perfect time to shop their jerseys and gear from other soccer superstars.

Pulisic USMNT home Nike jersey: $139.99

Want a classic red, white and blue jersey from Team USA? This Pulisic home jersey is an official release, complete with the star's name and number. It has Dri-FIT technology that wicks away moisture, keeping you cool during outdoor watch parties. If you don't need the authentic version, this replica looks nearly identical and costs only $65.

adidas Argentina home replica Messi jersey: $130

Lionel Messi is considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time and remains one of the most recognizable players at the 2026 World Cup. Show your support for Argentina with this replica jersey that easily wicks away sweat. It delivers the same iconic look at a fraction of the price.

Cristiano Ronaldo tribute soccer T-shirt: $19.89

Celebrate the career of Cristiano Ronaldo with this tribute tee. It highlights some of his most legendary moments on the field throughout the years. Available in more than a dozen colors, it costs less than $20, making it an affordable way to rep one of soccer's all-time greats.

Ochoa Mexico T-shirt: $17.99

Ochoa announced his retirement after Mexico's surprising loss to England, so grab this T-shirt to celebrate his incredible career. It's machine-washable and lightweight for all-day comfort. The simple black tee pairs with almost anything, and you can choose from dozens of colors.

Erling Haaland Manchester City mini figure: $19.99

If you're a fan of Erling Haaland, this mini figurine is for you. It features him in his Manchester City uniform, complete with his signature hairstyle. It's a simple way to cheer on the Norwegian star.

For more deals, visit www.foxnews.com/deals

Kylian Mbappé Real Madrid jersey: $184.99

France forward Kylian Mbappé is having quite the tournament, so grab his Real Madrid jersey and show your support for one of the sport's biggest stars. The authentic jersey helps wick away moisture to keep you comfortable whether you're at the stadium or cheering from your living room.

If you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.

Tom Brady compares Argentina's dramatic World Cup rally to Patriots' Super Bowl comeback

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:50:51 -0400

One of the most dramatic matches of the FIFA World Cup unfolded Tuesday afternoon at Atlanta Stadium.

After next week's World Cup semifinal, the stadium will shed its tournament identity. Mercedes-Benz Stadium will reclaim its name, and the natural grass installed for the tournament will give way to the artificial turf used for Falcons games before Atlanta hosts the Denver Broncos in a preseason game next month.

While the retractable-roof stadium continues to host World Cup drama, its regular tenant knows all too well what it's like to be at the center of football heartbreak.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

More than nine years ago, Tom Brady engineered one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history, rallying the New England Patriots from a 28-3 deficit to defeat the Falcons in overtime in Super Bowl LI.

Moments after Lionel Messi equalized in the 83rd minute to erase Argentina's two-goal deficit against Egypt, Enzo Fernández completed the comeback with a header as the final minutes ticked off the clock. Brady then took to social media, drawing a comparison to the Patriots 2017 comeback.

"Yeah so that might top 28-3," the seven-time Super Bowl winner wrote on X, adding a mind-blown emoji.

Egypt got on the board first on Tuesday afternoon, courtesy of Yasser Ibrahim's goal in the 15th minute. His teammate Mostafa Zico followed with a score in the 67th to build Egypt's lead to 2-0.

MESSI, ARGENTINA AVOID A SHOCKING UPSET IN WILD KNOCKOUT STAGE MATCH AGAINST CAPE VERDE

Messi helped guide Argentina to its first World Cup title in four years, defeating France in a final that was ultimately decided by penalty kicks.

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Argentina's 3-2 comeback Tuesday booked its place in the quarterfinals, where it will face the winner of Switzerland and Colombia on Saturday in Kansas City, Missouri. Switzerland and Colombia were scoreless at halftime of their Round of 16 match.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Bo Derek reveals why she felt like an 'impostor' and walked away from Hollywood despite blockbuster fame

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:46:06 -0400

Bo Derek has finally revealed why she decided to walk away from Hollywood despite reaching blockbuster fame.

Derek was a guest on Bill Maher's "Club Random" podcast and shared the real reason why she left the industry behind after rising to international fame in the late 70s thanks to the movie, "10."

Maher thanked Derek for being a guest on his show, since she doesn't normally put herself back into the limelight. "I'm not promoting anything. I'm loving my life. I don't need to go back to work," Derek said.

"It's very strange. People don't understand it," Derek began, referring to her decision to walk away from fame. "You know that expression, they would kill to do it, to be famous, to be in movies and not for some of us."

’10’ STAR BO DEREK RECALLS BECOMING AN ICON, FINDING LOVE WITH JOHN CORBETT

She continued, "I love retirement. I am so happy in retirement."

Derek told Maher that she lives just north of Santa Barbra and has been there since 1981.

Elsewhere on the podcast, Maher talked about how Derek was the most beautiful girl in the world for a decade, claiming it must have been gratifying while also being a burden.

BROOKE SHIELDS REFLECTS ON BEING MADE A 'SEX SYMBOL' AT A YOUNG AGE AND HOW SHE TURNED THE PAGE ON FAME

"It was none of those things," Derek replied. "Like I say, it was just it was just a whirlwind because I had no aspirations to be in films. I had when I did '10,' it was just a fluke that I got the part and I had no agent, no manager, no nothing, no fantasies about being in the movies."

Derek went on to explain that she felt "uncomfortable" seeing her face plastered across magazines when she walked down the street.

"I was just always uncomfortable with my image, being all over magazines when I walked down the street. And I always felt kind of fake and an impostor at the same time 'cuz I didn't work as an actress," she continued. "Or drive a limo or whatever everybody else did to be in movies."

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"You made the right choice there. By the way, you are not missing anything," Maher said. "I'm not missing anything. I don't miss it," Derek replied.

Derek was known for her signature braided hairstyle in the "10" and became one of Hollywood's most recognizable stars of the late 1970s and 1980s. Beyond acting, Derek is also an advocate for animal welfare and has been involved in various charitable and conservation efforts.

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