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Sophie Cunningham doubles down ahead of Sun game after ESPN profile stirs controversy: 'I said what I said'

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:03:24 -0400

Before Wednesday's game against the Connecticut Sun, Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham doubled down on her call to protect women's sports from biological male competitors, brushing aside recent backlash over her comments.

"I think I said what I said. I think it's kind of common sense," Cunningham told reporters when asked to expand on her views.

WATCH (via @RomeovilleKid / X):

"I'll always believe in that. It's really important to protect children, and that's little girls who are also involved in that category."

SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM MANAGES TO ANGER BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT WITH A SIMPLE SOCIAL MEDIA POST

For Cunningham, defending women's sports isn't about politics. It's about protecting female athletes.

"I'm not a very political person, but I do have beliefs. I have morals, and I'll always stand on those," she explained.

She pointed to Title IX as the foundation of women's sports, arguing the law exists to protect opportunities for female athletes. Without those protections, she said, the category loses its purpose.

TRANS ATHLETES DROP LAWSUIT TO GAIN ACCESS TO GIRLS' SPORTS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE AFTER SCOTUS RULING

Cunningham also rejected the idea that her position stems from bigotry, saying defending women's sports doesn't mean harboring hatred toward anyone else.

"I extend love, and I don't dislike anyone. I think there is room for absolutely everyone here," she said, adding that she has never expressed hatred toward the trans community.

Her focus, she said, remains on protecting biological women and girls.

TRACK STAR SAYS SHE'S TIRED OF CHRISTIANS BEING CALLED 'BIGOTS' FOR OPPOSING TRANS ATHLETES IN GIRLS' SPORTS

OutKick founder Clay Travis shared the clip on X.

"Love all of this. Well done @sophaller," Travis wrote in part.

He later tagged author J.K. Rowling, writing, "Hey @jk_rowling, want to make sure you see this. Sanity is winning in America."

As for the backlash, Cunningham said she tunes it out.

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"I really don't care," she said regarding the political labels attached to her views. "If I'm gonna live by the love, I'll die by the hate, and that's just not who I am. I beat to my own drum."

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

Jack Smith hit with criminal referral as GOP moves testimony fight toward prosecution

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:00:33 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: Former Biden special counsel Jack Smith could face potential criminal prosecution after Republicans accused the ex-prosecutor of misleading Congress about the scope of his investigation into President Donald Trump.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, issued a criminal referral of Smith on Wednesday, arguing newly released records contradict Smith's testimony to his committee that he did not obtain or review lawmakers' text messages during his multiple probes into President Donald Trump.

"All individuals have an obligation to comply with a duly authorized congressional inquiry. Mr. Smith, a former public servant, is no different," Jordan wrote in a letter to acting Attorney General Todd Blanche on Wednesday. "Yet his testimony included intentionally false statements designed to obstruct the Committee’s oversight."

"His conduct can only be understood as an effort to thwart the Committee’s inquiry by intentionally making false statements and representations before Congress," Jordan continued, adding that the Justice Department should examine whether Smith's actions warrant criminal charges.

VETERAN DEM BREAKS PARTY LINE AS JACK SMITH SPYING SCANDAL GRIPS CAPITOL HILL

Jordan’s letter accused Smith of making false statements during a December deposition before the House Judiciary Committee. Specifically, Jordan argued that "responses provided by Mr. Smith gave the impression that neither Mr. Smith nor his team had access to the content of members’ privileged text messages."

"We now know this to be false," the letter said.

The referral comes after Smith faced mounting scrutiny from Republicans over allegedly weaponizing the Justice Department and violating constitutional privacy protections during his investigations into alleged interference during the 2020 election and Trump’s handling of classified documents.

He has denied any wrongdoing.

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, released documents last week showing Smith's team read the text messages of 44 members of Congress from both parties as well as White House staff during its investigation.

Targeted lawmakers included Jordan and Grassley in addition to the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., and Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J.

Meanwhile, Trump officials who were impacted included former Vice President Mike Pence, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, FBI Director Kash Patel and Ivanka Trump, among others in the president's orbit during his first term.

BIDEN SPECIAL COUNSEL’S 'RUNAWAY TRAIN’ SCOOPED UP SENSITIVE LAWMAKER INFO: 'ABUSE OF POWER'

Grassley's office also found that Smith's team appeared to violate investigative protocols by accessing text messages that had not been reviewed by a "filter team" — a safeguard designed to prevent investigators from accessing privileged information, according to the documents.

When Smith was asked by congressional investigators if he examined the contents of lawmakers’ text messages during his probe, he said, "no."

He told the House Judiciary Committee that his team only sought telephone toll records.

"Toll records were sought for historical telephone routing information, collected after calls had taken place, identifying the incoming and outgoing call numbers, the time of the calls and their duration," Smith testified in December. "Toll records do not include the content of calls."

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The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump salutes 'great heroes' as he attends dignified transfer of US service members killed in Jordan, Iraq

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:40:32 -0400

President Donald Trump on Wednesday saluted the flag-draped caskets of four U.S. service members recently killed in action in Jordan and Iraq while attended a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.

Trump stood alongside Secretary of War Pete Hegseth as they paid tribute to 1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan, 25, of Ewa Beach, Hawaii; Sgt. Angel Rampersad, 28, of Ozone Park, New York; and Pvt. Isabella Gonzales, 19, of Carrollton, Texas, who were killed in Jordan, and Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton, 30, from Fayetteville, North Carolina, who was killed in Iraq.

Trump told reporters ahead of the ceremony the service members were "great heroes."

"We're going to honor them. And it’s one of the hardest things to do — for me, it's one of the hardest things to do as a president. But it has to be done," Trump added.

US SOLDIER KILLED IN JORDAN ATTACK REMEMBERED AS LIVING ‘LIFE OF COURAGE AND SELFLESSNESS’

"All I'm going to say is we love you. We love your child," Trump said when asked if he had a message for the families. "And that's what they are to them. They're their children. There's no games, no nothing. That's their child. And all you could do is throw out your heart."

Feehan’s parents, Stephen and Shari, told KUTV Tuesday, "No parents could have asked for a better son, and carrying your legacy forward is now our purpose.

"To that end, we're building a scholarship in his name — one meant to open doors to education for those who serve or hope to. We're starting it with his death gratuity, and we welcome anyone moved to give."

RUBIO ACCUSES IRAN OF FLYING IRGC PERSONNEL INTO YEMEN AS HOUTHI THREAT ESCALATES

U.S. Central Command said over the weekend that the service members were killed at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan as CENTCOM and partner forces "defended against Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks."

Swinton was killed while troops attempted to destroy a downed Iranian attack drone Sunday at an air base in Iraq.

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Both incidents remain under investigation.

Fox News’ Eric Mack and Jennifer Griffin contributed to this report.

Survivor of Hamas terror attack in Israel slams Mamdani over 'dangerous' video about Netanyahu

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:40:07 -0400

A survivor of the Nova music festival terrorist attack by Hamas pushed back against a video released by Zohran Mamdani calling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "war criminal," saying the New York City mayor’s comments were "dangerous."

Mazal Tazazo made the remark in a video shared on X by radio host Jason Rantz, one day after Mamdani said Netanyahu was "the architect of a horrific genocide against the Palestinian people."

In Mamdani’s message, he said he agreed with the International Criminal Court that "Benjamin Netanyahu should be arrested and tried for his crimes" and urged the federal government to carry out an arrest warrant if Netanyahu visits New York City in September for the U.N. General Assembly.

MAMDANI GOES BACK ON CAMPAIGN PROMISE, SAYS NYC CAN’T ARREST NETANYAHU

"I was shocked today when I saw that video. It's so dangerous," Tazazo said.

"What's happening there is not genocide. People died. Yes, this is a war. It's very sad. But why? Because the terrorists hide behind their people," she continued, referencing statements from the Israel Defense Forces that Hamas uses civilian buildings as cover for their military activity.

"If you want to really want to understand what's going on here, so come," she added. "I'm Mazal Tazazo, nice to meet you, survivor of the Nova. You can come to Israel, nobody gonna arrest you, OK? You can come to Israel and hear my story and hear the story of Israel and go around the place."

Rantz wrote on X that Tazazo "absolutely unloaded on Zohran Mamdani for threatening to arrest Benjamin Netanyahu."

NEW YORK DEMOCRAT HOPES MAMDANI WON’T BE ‘ARRESTING ANYONE’ AFTER RECENT NETANYAHU COMMENTS

Mamdani said in his own video posted on X Tuesday that "my administration has reviewed every avenue available under applicable law to determine whether New York City could execute the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant if Benjamin Netanyahu came here.

"It is clear that we do not have the independent legal authority to enforce this warrant. The federal government, however, does, and I call on them to join the ICC and execute this warrant.

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"He is responsible for the killing of more than 73,000 people, for the maiming of tens of thousands of children, as those who survive undergo amputation without anesthesia, for the targeting of neonatal hospitals and maternity care centers, denying newborns even the chance to live, for the countless people he starved as he blocked food and humanitarian aid from reaching them," Mamdani also claimed about Netanyahu.

Oakland baseball team will host 'historic' 'family-friendly' marijuana-themed game day

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:35:13 -0400

The Oakland Ballers, an independent professional baseball team in Oakland, California, says it will host a "family-friendly" cannabis game night July 31.

The team is partnering with Oaksterdam University, the nation's first cannabis college, for the event on "Grateful Dead Night."

The team will temporarily rebrand as the "Oaksterdam Blazers" and wear uniforms featuring the moniker.

"The game marks a historic first in professional baseball as the Ballers become the first professional team to partner with and celebrate the legal cannabis industry during a live game," the team wrote in a press announcement in June.

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The event originally began as an April Fools' Day joke, the team said, but enthusiastic fan response drove leadership to turn the stunt into reality.

According to the organization, the July 31 event will be "safe, inclusive and age-appropriate." Adults 21 and older are invited to board a tour bus at 10 a.m. PT to visit a local dispensary and participate in a lounge crawl featuring Oakland-certified cannabis businesses.

"More than a party bus, the experience will highlight the entrepreneurs, advocates and community leaders who fought to build Oakland’s legal cannabis industry and continue to shape its future today. For those looking to experience the full day, this is the place to start," the team said.

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The Ballers emphasized that while the lounge crawl is strictly for adults, the goal at the ballpark is to create an environment that remains suitable for families.

"Any content activations connected to the cannabis industry will be opt-in and require 21+ verification," the team added.

Oaksterdam University also promoted the event on its website, calling it the "first family-friendly cannabis industry event in America."

BILL MAHER, WOODY HARRELSON SOUND OFF ON CALIFORNIA BUSINESS CLIMATE, SAY STATE DESERVES TO BE 'S--- ON'

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Although the event is being billed as a historic first, other professional sports teams have formally partnered with cannabis industries in the past. In 2024, the Portland Pickles became the first U.S. sports team to sell THC products at a live sporting event, according to the team.

MLB also became the first major professional sports league to sign a sponsorship agreement with a CBD company in 2022.

The Oakland Ballers did not immediately return Fox News Digital's request for comment.

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The event highlights the California city's long history at the center of the marijuana legalization movement.

California became the first U.S. state to legalize pot for medical use in 1996. In 2004, Oakland made history by becoming the first U.S. city to formally permit and regulate medical cannabis dispensaries.

In 2016, California voters legalized recreational marijuana use for adults statewide through Proposition 64.

Far-left 'Squad' Dems mix up Jewish colleagues in botched attack — then get burned by their own votes

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:30:51 -0400

A social media attack by two far-left House Democrats on moderate Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., backfired after one confused him with another Jewish Democrat named Josh, and a New Jersey centrist used their votes for Ukraine aid to turn the exchange back on them.

The clash erupted after Gottheimer criticized the growing influence of democratic socialists within the Democratic Party.

"The DSA are not Democrats. They’re socialists, who want to hijack the Democratic Party," he wrote in an X post Monday.

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

"The Democrats have a big tent. That’s our strength. We embrace a range of ideas — but there’s no room for anti-American bomb-throwers who oppose our ideas, values, & leaders."

The next day, Rep. Summer Lee, D-Pa., fired back by accusing him of being among the Democrats who "sign bombs and vote to drop them," apparently confusing Gottheimer with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro.

Shapiro, not Gottheimer, signed an artillery shell bound for Ukraine during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s 2024 visit to Pennsylvania, Fox News Digital reported in September 2024.

"You know that’s the other Jewish guy named Josh, right?" Gottheimer said in response to Lee.

"Squad" Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., then jumped in to defend Lee, writing that Shapiro had signed "the bombs you voted to be dropped."

HOUSE DEMOCRATS FRACTURE BADLY OVER MASSIE AMENDMENT TO CUT $3.3B IN U.S. AID TO ISRAEL

Neither Omar nor Lee identified a specific vote, but Gottheimer turned the accusation back on both lawmakers by pointing out that they had voted for a $60.8 billion Ukraine aid package before Shapiro signed the Ukraine-bound artillery shell.

"Ilhan, you know who else voted for it?" Gottheimer said in response, including a screenshot of the "Official House Roll Call" for the April 2024 vote on H.R. 8035. "You."

The exchange comes as Gottheimer has increasingly accused his own party of applying a double standard to antisemitism. In a May New York Times opinion piece, the Jewish congressman argued that Democrats routinely condemn antisemitism from the political right but are too often silent when it emerges from the far left, calling the disparity a "glaring double standard."

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That intraparty divide has also widened over support for Israel.

According to the official House roll call, Lee and Omar were among 103 Democrats who voted last week for a failed amendment from Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., that would have prohibited funds in the underlying bill from being used for Israel and reduced the foreign military financing account by $3.3 billion. Gottheimer voted against the amendment.

Fox News Digital reached out to the offices of Gottheimer, Lee and Omar for comment but did not hear back in time for publication.

Las Vegas Grand Prix, F1 parent company are reportedly set to pay fans millions over 2023 drain cover incident

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:15:47 -0400

One of the most memorable moments of the inaugural Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend didn't happen during the race or even qualifying.

It came in the first practice session of the weekend, when then-Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz hit a drain cover, causing serious damage to his car's floor and energy store, while also damaging then-Alpine driver Esteban Ocon's car.

The session was red-flagged and eventually canceled, delaying the second practice session by hours as crews worked to repair the circuit and ensure the other drain covers were secure.

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This delay led to thousands of fans leaving before the next session could get underway.

So, not long after, attorney Steve Dimopoulos filed a class action lawsuit saying that attempts to make good on the situation were not enough.

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According to The Las Vegas Review Journal, court documents revealed that a federal judge agreed and gave preliminary approval for a settlement with LVGP and its parent company Liberty Media Corp. of just over $3 million, which is slated to get final approval in November.

"The settlement establishes a $3.05 million common fund for holders of approximately 32,000 eligible tickets," Dimopoulos said in a statement to The New York Post. "Individual payments will vary depending on ticket type, participation rates, attorney’s fees, costs and administrative expenses."

Of course, the amount of money each person gets will depend on how many claimants there are. But you do the math: if all 32,000 eligible folks decide they want in, it would leave you with enough to buy a hat at the next Las Vegas GP if you're lucky.

One of the cheap hats.

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Fortunately, the race went off without a hitch in the three years that it has been held. It's now set to be a part of the F1 schedule through 2037.

The drain incident caused further controversy in 2023 when the damage caused to Carlos Sainz's Ferrari required a new engine, resulting in a ten-place grid penalty. That came as the Scuderia was in a tight battle with Mercedes for second place in the championship standings.

EXCLUSIVE: Woman who stole $1.7M meant for hurricane victims gets prison time as DHS cracks down on FEMA fraud

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:15:20 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: A Pennsylvania woman who defrauded the federal government out of $1.7 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds in the wake of Hurricane Ida was sentenced to five years in prison, the Justice Department said Wednesday as the Trump administration continues its effort to crack down on fraud.

Jasmine Williams, 34, of Plymouth Meeting, pleaded guilty last year to 32 charges ranging from fraud related to a major disaster declaration to wire fraud and mail fraud.

"Under the leadership of President [Donald] Trump and Secretary [Markwayne] Mullin, FEMA is rooting out fraud in disaster aid," Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis exclusively told Fox News Digital.

"We are protecting taxpayer dollars and making sure disaster assistance goes to those who truly need it," Bis continued. "Anyone who tries to steal from survivors will be caught and held accountable."

MINNESOTA OF THE CARIBBEAN? TRUMP ADMIN FREEZES VACATION HOT SPOT’S FUNDS OVER ALLEGED HURRICANE-AID ABUSES

President Joe Biden issued a disaster declaration in September 2021 after the remnants of Hurricane Ida struck much of the eastern portion of the state.

Officials said Williams solicited participants in her scheme — renters, homeowners or the homeless — and submitted fraudulent documents to FEMA on behalf of almost 200 others, including fraudulent leases, letters from landlords, utility bills, earning statements and home repair estimates.

She recruited the participants over social media, advertising that she could assist them in applying for FEMA benefits, prosecutors said.

TRUMP SAYS ANTI-FRAUD EFFORTS ARE UNCOVERING BILLIONS IN WASTE, CLAIMS SAVINGS COULD BALANCE BUDGET

As part of the fraud, she requested half of the payout for herself, amassing hundreds of thousands of dollars.

When one person involved in the scheme didn’t pay her, Williams posted that person's personal information on social media, officials said.

She also posted a video criticizing the person for not paying the 50% Williams charged.

Williams additionally used social media to solicit images of damaged homes to submit in support of her fraudulent applications, federal prosecutors said.

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In fiscal year 2025, FEMA identified more than 1,700 fraud cases.

Jon Stewart presses Mamdani on where he breaks with fellow democratic socialists on prisons and borders

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:00:02 -0400

Talk show host Jon Stewart asked New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani where he disagrees with fellow democratic socialists who are rising in the Democratic Party during Wednesday's episode of his podcast, "The Weekly Show."

Stewart, who has long been a fixture of centrist Democratic Party politics, noted on his show that times have changed in that "now democratic socialism is considered the hottest trend in the Democratic Party, and there's grassroots energy and all. And these democratic socialist candidates are popping up, and you're having to answer for every one of their policy positions.

"Look, maybe I'm an old man or a s--- lib or whatever they want to call me," Stewart said. "If someone says we're going to abolish all prisons and borders, like I do go, ‘I don't think that's a good idea.’

"Like, it feels like order and security is also a progressive value. Why shouldn't people in neighborhoods with less resources have the same safety and security that neighborhoods with lots of resources?"

SOCIALISM’S RISE INSIDE THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY NOW THREATENS THE AMERICAN DREAM

He then proceeded to ask Mamdani, "So are there tenets of those that are kind of following in the wake of Zohran Mamdani's success that you're not comfortable with or that give you pause?"

Mamdani replied, "If you have more than one socialist in a room and there isn't disagreement, then you don't have more than one socialist in a room."

Mamdani went on to say he is comfortable with such discussions, so long as they are productive.

"Well, I'm comfortable with disagreement, and I'm comfortable with disagreement that doesn't end the conversation entirely because I think what motivates a lot of people is, ‘How do you deliver public safety?" Mamdani said.

"And the thing that I've said time and again is, ‘We cannot have New Yorkers choose between safety and justice.’

DEM REP HENRY CUELLAR REJECTS DSA AGENDA, SAYS SOCIALISTS ARE TRYING TO 'USE' DEMOCRATIC PARTY

"And, yes, I am, you know, doing the work with our police department, and we have been able to deliver the lowest number of murders and shootings in recorded history," Mamdani touted. "And, at the same time, I'm doing the work to close down Riker's Island and ensure that we are actually building the four smaller borough-based jails that brings an end to a horrible chapter in New York City history."

Mamdani went on to agree that one’s safety should not depend on how upscale their neighborhood is.

"I think, to your point, you know, when we're thinking about safety, there cannot be a hierarchy of safety where you experience it more or less depending on where you live in our city or how much money is in your pocket," Mamdani said.

"And there also can't be a definition of safety that is purely after the fact, meaning how you respond to violence. We also have to do the work of investing so that we prevent violence."

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Gisele Bündchen celebrates birthday in leopard-print bikini as she reflects on gratitude

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 19:38:42 -0400

Gisele Bündchen is celebrating her birthday in style.

The Brazilian supermodel took to Instagram to celebrate her 46th birthday with a series of photos, including one of her lounging in a leopard-print bikini.

"Thank you all for the love and birthday wishes. I feel so grateful for this new cycle that is beginning and for all the adventures that lie ahead," she captioned the post. "May the love and kindness you share return to each of you a thousandfold. ❤️✨"

In the photo, Bündchen smiles as she lounges on a green lounge chair and holds and white balloons.

SYDNEY SWEENEY SHARES BIKINI AND UNDERWEAR PHOTOS IN INSTAGRAM DUMP FROM AUSTRALIA TRIP

Other photos in the post showed the mom of three looking up at the sun with her hand on her chest and her eyes closed and shot of her birthday cake, which was in the shape of a heart.

Her husband, Joaquim Valente, showed her some love in the comments section, writing, "👏🎉✨❤️🥳."

Others joined in to wish Bündchen a happy birthday, with one writing, "Hope you had the happiest birthday 🎂 🎉," and another adding, "Happy birthday my beautiful angel🎉🥳🪽." Fellow supermodel, Heidi Klum also sent her well wishes, writing, "Happy Birthday G🐐❤️."

The celebratory post comes just a few days after Bündchen shared photos from her recent family getaway to Tahiti, which included snaps of her older children Benjamin Rein, 16, and Vivian Lake, 13, whom she shares with ex-husband Tom Brady, 48, and rare photos of her with her youngest child who she shares with Valente.

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She and Valente announced they were expecting their first child together in October 2024, with outlets reporting their son was born in February 2025.

After the birth of their son, Bündchen and Valente tied the knot during a private ceremony in Surfside, Florida, in December 2025.

Just last month, the model shared a series of photos of Valente spending time with all three of her children in honor of Father's Day, calling him "an incredible role model" in the caption.

"Happy Father’s Day @joaquimvalente !Thank you for leading by example, and for the values you embody, love, humility, integrity, discipline, kindness and consistency," she wrote. "You are an incredible role model. We are all so grateful for you, and we love you so much."

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Israeli UN envoy blasts Mamdani as 'clown' over call to arrest Netanyahu: 'It's a stunt'

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 19:35:05 -0400

Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations on Wednesday blasted New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani as a "clown" for demanding federal authorities arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when Netanyahu arrives in the city.

Danny Danon’s remarks came after Mamdani accused Netanyahu of being a "war criminal" and the "architect of a horrific genocide" against Palestinians while calling on the federal government to execute an International Criminal Court arrest warrant against the Israeli leader.

Netanyahu is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly in Manhattan in September.

NETANYAHU FIRES BACK AT NYC MAYOR MAMDANI'S VOW TO ENFORCE 'BOGUS ARREST WARRANT'

"Those baseless remarks about harassing the prime minister — it's a joke, and he's a clown," Danon told Fox News Digital Wednesday.

"Everyone knows it's a show. It's a stunt," Danon added. "A mayor should be dealing with the homeless people, the garbage in New York, and leave foreign affairs to the people in Washington who are elected to do it. He should take care of the security of the people in New York, especially the Jewish community, which is seeing the rise of antisemitism. That is his first responsibility."

The YouTube channel for the New York City Mayor's Office released a video July 21, "Benjamin Netanyahu is a war criminal."

"Benjamin Netanyahu is a war criminal, the architect of a horrific genocide against the Palestinian people," Mamdani said, repeating comments he made in an interview with The New York Times.

Mamdani leveled a series of allegations against the Israeli leader, claiming he was "responsible for the killing of more than 73,000 people, for the maiming of tens of thousands of children, as those who survive undergo amputation without anesthesia."

He also accused Netanyahu of targeting neonatal hospitals and maternity care centers and alleged that he blocked food and humanitarian aid.

CNN LEGAL ANALYST CALLS OUT 'UTTERLY RIDICULOUS' CLAIM BY MAMDANI ABOUT NETANYAHU ARREST

"Just last month, the U.N. confirmed that Palestinian children continue to be deliberately targeted and killed by Israeli armed forces, more than eight months after the so-called ceasefire," Mamdani said.

"All as we, as Americans, pay for the bombs that do the killing. There is a reason the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for his arrest."

Danon pushed back sharply against the mayor's accusations.

"There is a lot of humanitarian aid coming into Gaza every day," Danon argued.

"Nobody speaks about those issues anymore, but he wants to resume spreading blood libels, promoting the claims of genocide, starvation and all those lies that were spread by him, by his wife and by other people during the war.

"He wants to go back to this situation, but today there are no humanitarian issues in Gaza," Danon added.

"Mamdani continues to promote those blood libels against Israel and against the Jews."

Mamdani also said that City Hall cannot act on the warrant unilaterally.

"It is clear that we do not have the independent legal authority to enforce this warrant. The federal government, however, does, and I call on them to join the ICC and execute this warrant," Mamdani said.

"Benjamin Netanyahu is not welcome in New York City, nor is any other war criminal at large."

MAMDANI’S ‘DERANGED’ ISRAEL TAKE RESURFACES AS HE TARGETS NETANYAHU

Israeli officials strongly deny all charges. Netanyahu’s office has rejected the ICC’s jurisdiction, labeling it "a kangaroo court that has no jurisdiction over Americans or Israelis."

"People are smart; they know there's no legal basis for his remarks," Danon said. "The U.S. is not part of the ICC. There is no warrant that is actually effective against the prime minister in the U.S. So it's a political stunt."

"We have serious issues to deal with — the war with Iran and other critical matters.

"The prime minister is not actually dealing with Mamdani's remarks at all. He said it very clearly: He intends to come and speak at the U.N.

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"Prime Minister Netanyahu will come to New York and will speak in the General Assembly," Danon said. "The only thing the mayor can do is come to the U.N., grab a seat, listen to the Prime Minister and maybe learn something from his speech.

"Last year, Mayor Adams came to the prime minister's speech," Danon noted. "A local leader can come and hear. That's the only thing he can do."

Burger King makes major changes after thousands of customers sounded off

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 19:33:59 -0400

Visitors to Burger King may soon notice several changes inspired by updates that customers of the fast-food chain said they wanted.

"Earlier this year, we opened our phone lines and invited people to share their honest feedback, and they did," a Burger King representative told Fox News Digital.

"One of the biggest takeaways was that our guests want to feel welcomed when they walk in, know their order will be made the way they asked and have confidence that if something isn't right, we'll make it right."

BURGER KING FANS SWEAR A SIMPLE TRICK GETS YOU A FRESHER WHOPPER, BUT NOT EVERYONE IS CONVINCED

Burger King said the initiative generated thousands of customer phone calls and text messages.

Four months later, the company is introducing two strategies aimed at improving customer service and order accuracy.

The Your Way Champion is a "reimagined restaurant manager role designed to empower restaurant leaders and put the guest experience first," Burger King announced in a news release. The champion will wear a dedicated uniform and serve as a point person for customers, overseeing order customization and satisfaction.

The Whopper Guarantee promises that if a Whopper, Burger King's signature hamburger, doesn't meet a customer's expectations, "the brand will not only continue to remake it on the spot, but they'll offer the guest's next Whopper free of charge," redeemable with a QR code.

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"This is about bringing 'Have It Your Way' to life in every restaurant, every day," Burger King told Fox News Digital.

"The Your Way Champion puts hospitality front and center, while the Whopper Guarantee gives guests confidence we'll stand behind our flagship product being served just the way they want it. Together, they're about earning trust one visit at a time."

Burger King's announcement of the changes drew varied reactions from social media users.

"Listening to your guests and acting on their feedback is what builds long-term loyalty," one user wrote on LinkedIn. "Excited to see Burger King continuing to invest in both the guest experience and the restaurant teams that make it happen every day!"

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"Love to see a brand that actually listens to its guests," another wrote on the platform. "The 'Your Way Champion' role + Whopper Guarantee is a brilliant move. This is how you raise the bar in QSR [quick service restaurants]. Excited to experience it!"

"Shout out to a couple of champions," a Facebook user wrote of a recent experience at a Burger King in Canada.

"I don't think I have ever seen two people enjoy doing their job and looking after the customers as I did. Aalisha and Erwin were both happy, personable and an absolute delight to observe while I sat in this super clean restaurant. I have been in the hospitality business for over 20 years and am hard to impress ... but they did it. Well done."

A couple of other social media users expressed disappointment, claiming Burger King is prioritizing its customers over its employees.

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"Burger King is the worst place to work for," one person wrote on LinkedIn. "I've been there seven and a half years, and I'm a breakfast coordinator. I make $16.35 an hour, and they refuse to give me a raise, which is bull crap."

"We don't make that much and work way too hard to be doing all that," someone else wrote on Instagram. "I've noticed this company really likes their customers more than their own employees. It's sad."

Several other commenters chimed in on specific menu items they have missed or would like to be brought back or changed. Many users expressed love for the Whopper, which Burger King describes as "America's favorite burger" and "the brand's most beloved item."

"Actually, I don't care about the service, I just really like the Whopper!" someone wrote on Facebook.

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Burger King will continue gathering feedback and using it to "turn those insights into meaningful improvements across our restaurants," the chain told Fox News Digital.

CDC reveals massive behind-the-scenes public health operation that kept FIFA World Cup fans safe

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 19:31:07 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: The World Cup tested not only the players on the pitch, but the Trump administration's large public health operation to safeguard the public as fans from all over the world moved across the United States.

Amid the fandom, as 11 American cities hosted 39 teams and 78 matches, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) operated largely behind the scenes to detect emerging threats and to respond to public health emergencies.

"Readiness is not only measured by how we respond to emergencies, but by the work we do every day to prevent them," acting CDC Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya said in a statement to Fox News Digital.

"The FIFA World Cup demonstrated the strength of CDC’s partnerships, preparedness and commitment to protecting the health of every community we serve."

CONGO TEAM MUST ISOLATE TO ENTER UNITED STATES FOR WORLD CUP AMID EBOLA OUTBREAK

In total, the FIFA World Cup hosted 48 teams across 16 cities in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, with more than 5 million tickets sold.

An estimated 6.5 million fans from around the world converged in the three host countries, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and, possibly, germs. Overlapping with Independence Day celebrations, large gatherings were common, as well as the backdrop of concurrent international disease activity, including the Ebola and Hantavirus outbreaks.

Infectious disease can easily spread in large crowds, and experts were already looking at wastewater, a possible uptick in hospital visits and social media for any signs of a potential outbreak.

Diseases like measles are always a top concern. As of July 16, there were 2,260 confirmed measles cases in the U.S., according to the CDC.

"The matches drew the world's attention. The work that kept them healthy did not — and that was the point," the CDC said in a news release Sunday.

FBI BOSS KASH PATEL DETAILS HOW AGENCY AND PARTNERS SECURED RECORD-SHATTERING FIFA WORLD CUP

The CDC's effort included a World Cup data dashboard that provided health departments with real-time data on disease trends across multiple cities as fans and teams traveled throughout the tournament, as well as around-the-clock health operations at U.S. ports of entry in coordination with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to monitor international passengers.

The agency also deployed its experts to strengthen disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, wastewater surveillance and preparedness planning in host cities.

In all, the agency coordinated across a broad network, including multiple CDC divisions, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) and the White House FIFA World Cup Task Force.

WHITE HOUSE ADDRESSES GROWING PARASITE OUTBREAK AFTER MORE THAN 400 AMERICANS SICKENED

In March, the CDC released guidance providing health officials with a framework for preparing for a broad range of threats, including biological, chemical, radiologic/nuclear, environmental and mass casualty incidents.

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The guidance encouraged every jurisdiction to approach the tournament through a risk-based lens, recognizing that travel between venues connects communities far beyond the host cities.

The tournament is over, but the work is not. The same preparedness, surveillance and partnerships that supported the World Cup are part of CDC's readiness and response mission every day of the year, continuing through the close of the activation on July 31 and well beyond.

Big things brewing off the field in Tampa thanks to Jake Browning's wife & her plans to upgrade her fit checks

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 19:30:40 -0400

What an offseason it has been for Stephanie Niles. After leaving it all on the field for her last fit check as a member of the Cincinnati Bengals, she has landed with a new team and added a new ring.

That's right, with Jake Browning signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the two of them tying the knot, it's been a busy few months for the couple as they prepare for the quarterback's eighth season in the NFL.

But the practice squad girlfriend turned backup quarterback fiancée has big plans for the upcoming season after officially becoming an NFL wife. Now that she's introduced herself at the local country club, she's getting to work.

OLIVIA CULPO PULLS A VETERAN MOVE BY WISHING CHRISTIAN MCCAFFREY A HAPPY BIRTHDAY WITH STRING BIKINI PICS

Mrs. Browning is giving her closet an upgrade this season and has already started working on her outfit for the Buccaneers home opener. She's going big or settling for a T-shirt from the team shop.

Her obsession began, she admits, with the viral bodysuit she wore a couple of years ago in Cincinnati. Ever since that moment, she's been preparing as if she's a starter and made the most of every opportunity.

That's taken Stephanie Browning to a new level when it comes to her approach to her game day fits. Her ideas have surpassed simply putting her trust in an "alarming little amount of thread."

She announced on Wednesday that she's learning to sew and the rest of the league has officially been put on notice.

RAMS' SEAN MCVAY AND HIS MODEL WIFE PUT THE REST OF THE NFL ON NOTICE WITH NOTHING BUT SWIMSUITS ON

What a veteran move. When you feel like you've done all you can with your current skill set, you add some more skills.

That's how you make it off the practice squad and onto a roster. That's how you land a backup role and start some games when the starter goes down.

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I don't want to toot my own horn here, but I hit the nail on the head with the "big things brewing off the field in Tampa" proclamation. If you're new to the league or haven’t found your footing yet, take notes.

A well-timed viral moment can only take you so far. You have to be prepared for what comes next, and Stephanie Browning has taken it all in stride.

Newsom turns to Hunter Biden’s high-powered ex-lawyer as federal scrutiny closes in on his family, allies

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 19:13:09 -0400

California Gov. Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, have turned to Hunter Biden’s former attorney as federal investigators scrutinize financial and nonprofit matters involving the first partner and a separate federal fraud case has ensnared the governor’s former chief of staff.

The hiring of prominent Washington defense lawyer Abbe Lowell, whose recent clients have included high-profile figures who have clashed with Trump, including New York Attorney General Letitia James and former President Joe Biden’s son, comes as Newsom dismisses the scrutiny as a politically motivated "fishing expedition" aimed at one of President Donald Trump’s most visible Democratic opponents.

In a news conference Tuesday, the California governor confirmed he had obtained Lowell's counsel.

GAVIN NEWSOM CLAIMS TRUMP ORDERED DOJ PROBE TARGETING HIM AND HIS WIFE

Lowell, a veteran white-collar defense attorney who served as House Democrats’ chief minority counsel during former President Bill Clinton’s impeachment, has represented a bipartisan roster of political heavyweights over his decades-long career.

His past clients include Hunter Biden, Trump’s daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner, former Democratic Sens. Bob Menendez and John Edwards and an employee of longtime Trump ally Tom Barrack.

More recently, Lowell has represented several prominent figures who say they have been targeted by the Trump administration, including Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, former Department of Homeland Security official Miles Taylor and whistleblower attorney Mark Zaid.

Lowell did not respond to Fox News Digital's questions in time for publication.

At least two criminal investigations connected to Newsom’s family and political orbit have been handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California, according to CalMatters. Citing a Justice Department source familiar with the matter, the outlet reported that both originated with whistleblowers and people in Sacramento.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE NEWSOM-LINKED CHARITIES REPORTEDLY CAUGHT IN DOJ’S SIGHTS

One inquiry reportedly involves tax-related scrutiny involving Jennifer Siebel Newsom and financial arrangements connected to her nonprofit and filmmaking work. The other centered on former Newsom chief of staff Dana Williamson, who later pleaded guilty in a separate federal fraud case that prosecutors say grew out of an investigation launched during the Biden administration.

The Los Angeles Times reported that nonprofits and a for-profit production company founded by Siebel Newsom are at the center of the federal scrutiny into her charity and business finances. The Justice Department and FBI have not commented publicly on the investigation, according to the Times. The Justice Department did not respond to Fox News Digital’s questions in time for publication.

Among the organizations identified by the Times is the Representation Project, a nonprofit that federal tax records show has paid Siebel Newsom more than $1.9 million in compensation. The nonprofit also awarded roughly $2.2 million in contracts to Girls Club Entertainment, a for-profit production company separately owned by Siebel Newsom.

CRUZ PUSHES BILL TO HOLD TAX-EXEMPT SPONSORS ACCOUNTABLE AS DOJ PROBES SINGHAM NETWORK

The Times also identified the California Partners Project, another nonprofit founded by Siebel Newsom. State disclosures reviewed by the outlet show it has received nearly $5.1 million in "behested payments" reported by the governor since 2020. Behested payments are donations made at an elected official’s request for charitable, legislative or governmental purposes rather than contributions to the official’s political campaign.

Newsom and his wife have maintained that the current Justice Department is weaponizing investigations in retaliation for the pair's criticism of Trump and his national political profile. However, in an interview last week with MS NOW, Siebel Newsom was asked about the origin of the probes and said she did not know the details.

Newsom's office did not respond to Fox News Digital's questions about whether he has been contacted by any federal investigators in relation to these cases or any others. However, Newsom did tell KCRA-3 in California during a news conference Tuesday he believes it is just a matter of time until he does.

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"It's inevitable, come on," Newsom said when asked about any contact from federal investigators. "Look at who we're dealing with."

Fox News Digital reached out to the White House, which referred all questions to the Justice Department.

Campus conflict exposed at the core of SJSU's messy fight vs Trump admin over volleyball scandal

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 06:06:57 -0400

EXCLUSIVE: Since the start of 2026, San Jose State University (SJSU) has had a donor ask to be removed from a key list in protest, a parade of pro-trans activists shout demands at administrators in an organized meeting, and assault allegations surface against its head volleyball coach.

Fox News Digital has obtained exclusive video and documents from independent verified sources, and emails via a public records request that reveal a university paralyzed and divided over its 2024 volleyball scandal involving Blaire Fleming and Brooke Slusser.

INSIDE THE FALLOUT OF THE SJSU VOLLEYBALL SCANDAL: ‘THIS IS AN OBVIOUS PROBLEM’

SJSU and the California State University system (CSU) are currently waging a lawsuit against President Donald Trump's administration to assert the school followed the law in its handling of the scandal, and to reject the findings of a federal investigation.

The lawsuit may set a national precedent for Title IX enforcement for public universities going forward, as SJSU faces internal and external friction.

The Trans Town Hall

On Feb. 26, a town hall was held in the SJSU engineering building.

A copy of an invitation obtained by Fox News Digital included the title "Trans Gender Rights Town Hall with SJSU Administration" in big, bold all-caps letters. The subject to be discussed was SJSU's response to the Trump administration's resolution proposal.

"Please come to a Town Hall with SJSU’s President and top administration, and tell them they must stand up for our transgender students," it wrote.

A sign-up form said that SJSU President Cynthia Teniente-Matson would be in attendance. But she was not there, as seen in footage of the meeting provided to Fox News Digital from an independent verified source.

Just two administrators were seen in attendance.

One by one, pro-trans activists came up to a lectern and unleashed emotionally charged rants, often directed at the two administrators. At one point, one of the speakers expressed being "glad" that the meeting was being recorded, so it could be sent to Teniente-Matson later. A separate video camera was seen recording the event, in the obtained footage.

Harsh orders were delivered to the two administrators there to tell their superiors not to accept the resolution agreement.

"It is about protecting all of the oppressed communities here on campus, doing more than lip service, and doing your job of going to the CSU and saying, 'We will not capitulate to violent transphobic demands or any other oppressive demands that come from this heinous, heinous current administration at all!'" one person exclaimed.

At one point in the meeting, a speaker declared, "It is your job to get in the room with Cynthia to make sure that she conveys all of this information to the relevant people. This isn’t a compromise. We’re talking about people’s human rights. We’re talking about enforcing segregation on our campus. That’s not something we can capitulate to. That’s not something negotiable."

Teniente-Matson's absence at the meeting was a frequent point of outrage for multiple speakers.

One of them shouted, "We heard from administration, ‘We’re doing our best. We’re doing what we can with the cards we’ve been given.’ Bull f—ing s—. Bulls—. No. Uh-uh ... Your best isn’t f—ing adequate. Like, just point blank. You can do the best. You can say it’s your best. It’s not adequate. People are harmed. People are scared."

Another cried, "45 minutes. They handed over 45 minutes for this issue, 45 minutes. And they didn’t even give us 45. They gave us zero because two of these seats are f—ing empty right now. They didn’t even show up. Gave a bulls— email about two hours before the event started."

Just eight days later, on March 6, SJSU and the entire CSU system announced they were suing the federal government to challenge the ED investigation and its findings.

In her announcement of the lawsuit, Teniente-Matson wrote, "Our support for the LGBTQ members of our community, who have experienced threats and harms over the last several years remains unwavering... We’ve heard the fear and anxiety that it has created and recognize that waiting for the university’s response has been difficult at a time already filled with uncertainty."

Administrator inboxes received responses from faculty, students and alumni, with reactions to the news, as seen in public records obtained by Fox News Digital.

"I attended the town hall and heard the students anxiety and pain," one professor wrote to Teniente-Matson. "Thank you for showing the nation how to fight with dignity."

Another SJSU employee sent an email to Vice President of University Advancement Judy Nagai, voicing concerns. That email was then flagged to other administrators.

"It’s worth noting that the university’s communications don’t directly address concerns about fairness and privacy for women," the email wrote. "It’s easy to see how the messaging might come across as ambiguous or even dismissive of women’s rights for some, especially given the strong emphasis on inclusivity for LGBTQ students."

Nagai forwarded that email to Teniente-Matson and other admins and wrote, "[redacted] replied with a lengthy response below. He will likely attend the alumni board meeting."

Nagai later sent out a mass email, advising admins on how to handle individuals with concerns about the lawsuit.

"If you receive any questions, comments, or concerns about this topic from alumni, volunteers, and donors, please connect with [Associate Vice President of Strategy & Campaigns Manaf Mansure] so he can track and assess an appropriate response with guidance from UMC and university leadership," Nagai wrote.

"This includes all forms of communication -- phone calls, emails, texts and mobile messages and in-person conversations."

'Please remove me from your list'

A month before the town hall, and five days before the U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced it had determined SJSU violated Title IX, a donor sent an email to the school that was forwarded to Nagai. It was in response to an announcement about the school's dedicated philanthropy partner, The Tower Foundation.

The subject line read "no more giving to SJSU."

"Judy, please remove me from your list. I am totally against trans athletes playing in women’s sports. I am fine with trans people but the women who work so hard to advance their careers in athletics are getting robbed of their chances to rank and be recognized," the donor wrote.

"I was on the Tower Foundation for years and was a supporter. I wrote to the Chair and asked him to let the President know my feelings about this. A separate trans program is fine for me and makes sense. Title IX, in my view was to advance and protect women."

SJSU has addressed the donor's email in a statement to Fox News Digital.

"The University takes very seriously its legal obligations under Title IX. The University has followed and continues to follow the law," the statement wrote.

The email was provided to Fox News Digital in response to a public records request. The identity of the person who sent the email was redacted by SJSU.

Less than a week later on Jan. 28, ED announced that SJSU was found in violation of Title IX after conducting a nearly-year-long investigation into the volleyball scandal. ED gave SJSU an ultimatum to agree to resolve the violation that would have included an apology to players and changes to official program records, but no monetary fines.

But later that same day, SJSU’s Risk Manager Karen Vogler sent an email to a finance colleague, about a potentially different risk.

"It doesn't appear that SJSU will face any fines or monetary penalties as a result of the U.S. Department of Education's investigation. However, claims/litigation may increase given their findings that the Title IX violation goes back to 2022," Vogler wrote.

Facing the fallout

Over the last two weeks, Fox News Digital has reported on decades-old allegations against the coach who oversaw the controversial 2024 team. One of Kress's former players at Fairfield University sent a letter to SJSU in October 2024, near the height of the scandal's national exposure, with a letter that included allegations Kress attacked her in a hotel room in 1998.

The former player made her first public statements on Tuesday, since the allegations first surfaced on July 7 in a Fox News Digital report.

"SJSU has known I feared for the safety of the women in the program since October of 2024 and yet they have allowed Todd to continue to coach and travel with the team," she told Fox News Digital on the condition of anonymity. "I informed both Fairfield and SJSU of my 1998 encounter with Todd after reading accounts of young women on the 2024 SJSU team describing his intimidation, coercive, and manipulative behaviors."

SJSU is in this predicament three years after Slusser was allegedly convinced by Kress to move into an apartment with Fleming.

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The alleged treatment of Slusser, and every other player on those teams from 2022-24, would be codified in ED's 45-page findings were SJSU to agree to the resolution agreement.

But SJSU and CSU are seeking to have the entire investigation vacated, as stated in a copy of their lawsuit obtained by Fox News Digital.

CSU and the federal government filed a joint proposed order on March 27, 2026, that would prevent ED from using its findings to immediately disrupt federal funding.

Meanwhile, Slusser and former SJSU associate head coach Melissa Batie-Smoose continue to wage their own individual lawsuits against the institutions.

Slusser's lawsuit is set to soon receive a decision on motions to dismiss, after a federal judge delayed final ruling on the Title IX charges in the lawsuit until after the recent Supreme Court cases on trans athletes in women's sports. All nine justices in the cases, all nine justices unanimously agreed that federal Title IX law does not prohibit states from maintaining separate sports teams for biological females or from excluding transgender girls and women from women’s and girls' sports teams.

The unanimous interpretation of Title IX could prove to strengthen Slusser's chances of advancing past motions to dismiss, but does not guarantee it.

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Meanwhile, Batie-Smoose is engaged in a wrongful termination lawsuit with SJSU.

Oral arguments for that case are scheduled for Aug. 21.

Travelers unite in powerful moment of silence as fallen US service member returns home

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 18:57:41 -0400

A powerful display of respect unfolded inside a busy North Carolina airport as strangers united to honor a fallen American service member's final journey home.

Video shared by the White House and many others on social media shows a large group of travelers gathered along the terminal windows at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, many with their hands over their hearts, during the dignified transfer of a fallen service member on the tarmac below.

"BEAUTIFUL MOMENT: Hundreds of Americans at Raleigh-Durham International Airport stood in silence to honor a fallen service member as they returned home," the White House wrote Wednesday in a post on Instagram. "A grateful nation remembers. God bless our troops."

The moving tribute quickly drew an outpouring of emotional reactions online, with many commenters praising the travelers who paused their own journeys to pay their respects.

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"God bless and comfort these families. I am so thankful for their service. The dark will not outshine the light!" one person wrote.

"There is hope for the USA. God bless our fallen heroes," another commenter added.

AS AN ARMY WIDOW, I WILL NEVER FORGET HOW ORDINARY AMERICANS HONORED MY HUSBAND

Others said the tribute left them emotional.

"This brought me to tears," one person wrote.

The United Service Organizations (USO) confirmed to Fox News Digital that its Raleigh-Durham Airport Center Honors Support Team assisted with a dignified transfer at the airport on July 21 but declined to identify the fallen service member.

PENTAGON IDENTIFIES ARMY SOLDIER KILLED IN ACTION DURING IRAQ OPERATION

"Out of respect for the service member, the family and military notification procedures, we are unable to provide additional information regarding the individual or the transfer," the USO said.

The organization said its staff and volunteers are prepared to support military families during some of their most difficult moments.

"When a service member makes their final journey home, our staff and volunteers are prepared to provide compassionate support to families and work alongside our military partners to help ensure a dignified transfer and the respectful honoring of our nation’s fallen," the USO said.

The organization added that it works to ease logistical burdens and provide families with a welcoming space and essential services so they can focus on honoring their loved one.

The airport tribute came as the nation mourned four U.S. service members recently killed during the war with Iran.

Earlier Wednesday, the Department of War's Rapid Response account announced that four American service members who "made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation" had been welcomed home during dignified transfer ceremonies.

"Today, we welcomed home four brave Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation," the account wrote on X. "Their courage will never be forgotten."

FBI Director Kash Patel also paid tribute to the four fallen service members in a post on X.

"We owe the ultimate costs to our American patriots that paid the ultimate price for this country," Patel wrote. "We will never forget."

Patel named 1st Lt. Tyler Feehan, Sgt. Michael Swinton, Sgt. Angel Rampersad and Pvt. Isabella Gonzales, adding, "Or their families."

It is not immediately clear whether the White House video from the airport depicts one of those transfers.

The four are among 18 U.S. service members killed during the war with Iran.

On Tuesday, the Pentagon identified Army Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton, 30, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, as one of the latest U.S. service members to die while deployed, announcing he was killed during an operation at Erbil Air Base in Iraq involving a downed Iranian attack drone.

North Carolina Senate candidate Michael Whatley honored Swinton in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.

"May God Bless Sgt. Michael Swinton and his family," Whatley said. "North Carolina and the country owe an immeasurable debt to those who have given their lives to protect and preserve the liberties which make America the greatest nation on Earth."

Rep. Mark Harris, R-N.C., also mourned Swinton and Feehan while pointing to the airport tribute as a reflection of the nation’s gratitude.

"North Carolina and the Fort Bragg community mourn the loss of two remarkable individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom," Harris said in a statement to Fox News Digital.

"Beth and I are praying for the families, friends, and loved ones of Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton and 1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan.

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"As today’s beautiful moment at Raleigh-Durham International Airport showed, we will never forget the debt our nation owes these two heroes."

Fox News Digital's Eric Mack contributed to this report.

Experts reveal how to avoid deadly Legionnaires' disease as NYC outbreak kills 5

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 18:53:45 -0400

As New York City continues to investigate an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease that has claimed multiple lives and sickened dozens of people, doctors say there are ways people can reduce the risk of exposure.

As of July 21, there have been five deaths and 82 diagnoses linked to the Upper East Side outbreak, according to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Eight patients remain hospitalized.

Health officials said no new cases had been reported in the previous six days, suggesting the source of exposure has likely been eliminated, although the investigation remains ongoing.

NYC LEGIONNAIRES' DISEASE OUTBREAK KILLS FOURTH VICTIM; 76 CASES REPORTED

Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia that is typically spread by tiny water droplets containing Legionella bacteria, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Sources of exposure

Common sources of infection include contaminated building water systems, such as cooling towers (large structures that remove heat from water used in building cooling systems), hot tubs or plumbing. Cases have also been reported on cruise ships and in spas. It is not generally spread from person to person, according to the CDC.

"We get infected when it gets aerosolized in the water droplets, usually, and we breathe those droplets in," Dr. Dana Mordue, associate professor of pathology, microbiology and immunology at New York Medical College, told Fox News Digital.

NYC HEALTH OFFICIALS WARN CENTRAL PARK VISITORS AFTER LEGIONNAIRES’ OUTBREAK GROWS ON UPPER EAST SIDE

"You can also get infected if you have water that's been contaminated, and you aspirate it and swallow it into your lungs, but most often you get it from air droplets that are contaminated from various types of water sources."

Although it is possible to contract Legionnaires’ in the home, outbreaks are almost always linked to exposure to water droplets coming from a water system in a "commercial-type building," according to Mordue.

"The good news is you usually don't get it from the types of cooling systems that we have in our cars or our homes. But if you don't clean your humidifiers, technically any water source can get contaminated with Legionella."

Symptoms and treatment

The most widespread symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches and headaches, according to the CDC. Some people may also experience diarrhea, nausea and confusion.

Symptoms typically begin two to 14 days after exposure to the bacteria, although they can appear later. The illness often requires treatment with antibiotics.

"The mortality rate is not particularly high for this disease if you are immune-competent and young and healthy," said Mordue.

Risk is higher for older adults, smokers and people with compromised immune systems, "a lot of the same risk factors you might see for COVID," the doctor noted.

Ways to prevent spread

The CDC shares the following measures to prevent the spread of Legionnaires’ disease.

Maintain building water systems. Comprehensive water management programs can prevent Legionella bacteria from growing in cooling towers, plumbing systems, hot tubs and other building water systems. The CDC estimates that nearly nine in 10 outbreaks could have been prevented with more effective water management.
Clean and disinfect cooling towers. These structures should be routinely cleaned, monitored and disinfected to control bacteria growth, health officials recommend.
Prevent stagnant water. Maintaining proper water flow and flushing any pipes that are infrequently used can help prevent Legionella from multiplying.
Maintain proper water temperature and disinfectant levels. As Legionella is known to grow best in warm water (about 77°F to 113°F), maintaining appropriate temperatures and adequate disinfectant levels helps limit bacterial growth, the CDC says.

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For anyone who may have been exposed and developed symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical care, doctors say. Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment can reduce the risk of severe illness.

"If you have certain risk factors, particularly advanced age, get help as quickly as you can," Mordue advised.

Cole Hauser admits Taylor Sheridan's absence from writers' room created 'challenges' on 'Dutton Ranch'

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 18:53:10 -0400

Cole Hauser is giving fans a glimpse behind the scenes of "Dutton Ranch" — and it wasn't all smooth riding.

The actor, who reprises his fan-favorite role as Rip Wheeler in the "Yellowstone" spin-off, acknowledged the cast faced an uphill battle after franchise creator Taylor Sheridan stepped away from the show's writers' room during the spin-off’s first season.

"There were challenges, you know?" Hauser told Film Inside NYC. "Not having Taylor [Sheridan] there, for us to really kind of be able to work with these new writers, these new directors, these people... Everything had changed."

ED HARRIS SAYS HE WAS READY TO LEAVE DUTTON RANCH AFTER FEELING MISLED ABOUT HIS ROLE

"The only… normality that we had whatsoever was Carter [played by Finn Little], Christina [director Alexandra Voros] … Kelly and myself," he added.

"Dutton Ranch," which wrapped its first season earlier this month, marked the first series in the "Yellowstone" universe not to be written by Sheridan.

While the franchise creator remained on board as an executive producer, day-to-day creative duties shifted to showrunner Chad Feehan and an entirely new writing staff.

For Hauser, the transition wasn't seamless.

"I enjoy a challenge, it certainly was a challenge," he said. "We worked our a--es off this year... And I don't think a lot of the outside noise or the thought of, like, 'What's the weight of the show?' was really apparent to me at the time."

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Rather than dwell on the expectations surrounding one of television's biggest franchises, Hauser said the cast focused on finding its footing with an unfamiliar creative team.

The actor pointed out that the experience ultimately strengthened the cast.

TAYLOR SHERIDAN’S 'YELLOWSTONE’ FORMULA TURNS COUNTRY STARS INTO SCENE-STEALERS AS MORGAN WADE MAKES HER DEBUT

"It was about putting my head down and working my a-- off with… what I had around me. The writers that we had, the new writers that we had, that we had to figure out on our feet how to really perform and tell a story. So, I'm proud of what we accomplished, and I look forward to doing it again."

Hauser's comments come after speculation surrounding the show's creative direction.

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The franchise faced scrutiny following blunt comments from co-star Ed Harris, who said he was disappointed by how his character, Everett McKinney, was handled during Season 1.

Speaking to Variety, Harris said, "Midway through this first season, I was ready to say, 'Get me the f--- out of here,' to tell you the truth... I didn't feel I was being used... I felt a little bit misled."

Harris claimed he signed on believing Everett would be one of the show's central characters, but felt that promise never materialized.

"Prior to signing on for it, I talked quite a bit about what the season was and what my character was going to do. That I was one of the four main characters. And that wasn't really the case," Harris said, adding that he also was disappointed a scene in which his character sang was ultimately cut from the final edit.

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The Oscar-nominated actor said producers have assured him his role will expand when production resumes.

"We don't start [Season 2] until February," Harris said. "And I'm being told that my character will have a little bit more to do. It just was a little frustrating, to tell you the truth."

Trump gives emotional tribute to fallen Army Lt Tyler Feehan after flying grieving family on Air Force One

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 18:36:48 -0400

President Donald Trump paid an emotional tribute to fallen Army 1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan during an event Wednesday at Wheeler High School in Marietta, Georgia, revealing he invited the slain soldier's grieving family aboard Air Force One.

The family was in the crowd after Trump met with them earlier in the day at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.

Trump traveled to Georgia after attending the dignified transfer ceremony of four U.S. service members killed in Jordan, including Feehan, and the president met Feehan's parents, Shari and Stephen, and his uncle David.

Speaking to the crowd, Trump recounted learning the family was also headed to Georgia after the ceremony.

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"I said, 'If you want, I'll give you a ride on Air Force One,'" Trump told the audience. "Today they were on Air Force One, and it's quite nice, I must say."

Trump said the family was "heartbroken" but grateful for the gesture.

"They couldn't believe it," he said. "They live minutes away. We're here today."

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Feehan, 25, of Ewa Beach, Hawaii, was among four U.S. service members killed in Jordan while supporting a U.S. mission. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 55th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Pvt. Isabella Gonzales, 19, of Carrollton, Texas, was also among those killed. U.S. Central Command announced the deaths Saturday.

Trump said he reviews biographies of fallen service members before each dignified transfer and described Feehan as an exceptional young officer with a promising future.

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"Lieutenant Tyler Feehan ... he was a person that was going all the way," Trump said. "He was going to be a general. He would have been a general very quickly. He was heading in that path."

Trump then thanked Feehan's family, whom he said he got to know during the flight from Dover to Georgia aboard Air Force One.

"But I just want to thank Tyler's mother, Shari; his father, Stephen; and his uncle David. Great people. I got to know them a little bit on the plane and standing there and watching this site," he said.

Calling dignified transfers the most difficult responsibility of the presidency, Trump said he would never forget the family.

"I think it's the toughest thing I do," Trump said. "But to Shari and Stephen and David, we will carry Tyler's memory in our hearts forever. I just want to thank you. It's an honor to have you here today."

The audience responded with sustained applause before Trump addressed Feehan's mother directly.

"Shari, he's looking down right here," Trump said. "He's so proud right now."

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Trump visited Georgia on Wednesday to tout his administration's Trump Accounts initiative, saying the program would help families build long-term savings for their children as part of what he described as America's "Golden Age."

Manhunt underway after masked gunman allegedly shoots NYC cab driver in face during overnight robbery

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 18:36:40 -0400

Police in New York City are searching for a masked gunman who allegedly shot a 21-year-old cab driver in the face during an overnight armed robbery in Brooklyn.

According to a New York Police Department (NYPD) statement obtained by Fox 5 New York, the incident happened around 4 a.m. Saturday when the suspect targeted a TLC-licensed livery cab, a vehicle typically used for pre-arranged rides rather than street hails.

Authorities said the suspect entered the vehicle and allegedly threatened the driver, demanding money and the keys to the cab.

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The suspect then opened fire as the driver attempted to exit the vehicle, striking him in the face.

"The victim proceeded to exit the vehicle when the unidentified individual discharged a firearm striking the 21-year-old male victim in the face," police said.

The suspect fled the scene on foot after stealing "an unknown amount of currency," police said.

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Authorities noted that the suspect did not take anything else from the vehicle.

Police received reports of the incident at approximately 4:15 a.m.

Emergency Medical Services responded and transported the victim to a local hospital in stable condition. The NYPD also described the shooting as non-fatal.

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Authorities are asking for the public’s help identifying the suspect, who was last seen wearing blue shorts, a black sweatshirt, a black surgical mask and black shoes while carrying a black backpack.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish speakers can call 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Tips can also be submitted through the NYPD Crime Stoppers website or on X @NYPDTips.

Ford agenda carries $18B price tag, Lombardo campaign report estimates

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 06:00:47 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo’s campaign estimates that Democratic rival Aaron Ford’s policy agenda would generate $18.1 billion in government and private-sector costs — burdening residents over four years — including nearly $8 billion in projected Nevada state spending — calculations Ford’s campaign sharply disputes.

The Lombardo campaign report assigns estimated costs to 76 Ford proposals, combining projected Nevada spending with costs it says would be borne by businesses and the federal government that ultimately fall to the taxpayers and the public. Ford’s campaign argues the analysis invents implementation plans Ford never proposed and misclassifies some federal and private costs as consequences of his platform.

The analysis projects $7.93 billion in direct state spending over a four-year term. Lombardo’s campaign argues Nevada could not absorb spending on that scale without higher taxes, new fees or cuts elsewhere, while Ford’s campaign says many of the projected expenses would not require new state appropriations.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, University of Nevada, Reno professor Mark Pingle backed the report's findings, saying, "Based on a review of Aaron Ford's policy proposals, an estimated cost of $18 billion is a reasonable assessment."

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"The bottom line is simple: these proposals would require a record-breaking increase in spending. Before moving forward with a plan this expensive, Nevadans deserve clear answers about how it would be paid for, who would bear the cost, and what it would mean for the state's long-term financial stability. Regardless of political party, $18 billion in new spending deserves careful review and an explanation of how it would be paid for."

Because Nevada has no personal income tax, significant new recurring state spending would likely require additional revenue from other taxes or fees, reductions in other spending, or some combination of the two.

Ford's healthcare agenda, according to the report, carries the largest price tag at an estimated $4.25 billion for proposals addressing medical debt and predatory healthcare practices, including $3.5 billion for a proposal to cancel medical debt.

The report estimates an extra $1.76 billion would be needed to expand healthcare affordability and access through Medicaid protections, workforce expansion and preventive care.

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Ford's K-12 education plan is estimated to cost $3.68 billion alone, including raising Nevada's per-pupil funding to the national average, expanding pre-K, providing universal school meals, and increasing pay for teachers and support staff, the report projects.

The report estimates households would receive $17.88 billion in savings and other benefits while businesses, the state and the federal government would bear nearly the same amount in costs.

Overall, according to the report, Ford's platform would cost roughly $4.9 billion for education, $4.8 billion for housing, more than $6 billion for healthcare, about $1.5 billion for energy and nearly $900 million for economic development.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Ford campaign spokesperson Prerna Jagadeesh said, "General Ford won’t be lectured by a governor who proposed a budget with a $335 million unconstitutional deficit and twice broke his pledge to never raise taxes."

Jagadeesh continued, "The Lombardo campaign is embarrassing themselves and insulting the intelligence of voters by pushing this fraudulent report. The report lies about Attorney General Ford’s policies and assigns fake costs to programs that won’t cost the state a penny and will actually save taxpayers money, and incorrectly attributes costs to the state. Lombardo’s campaign rushed out this incredibly sloppy report in a desperate attempt to divert attention from a viral video of Lombardo abusing his position of power to evade consequences for breaking the law. Nevadans already know Lombardo has spent the last four years raising costs on working families and is offering no solutions to the problems they’re facing."

The Ford campaign specifically disputes several of the report's largest assumptions, arguing Lombardo's team assigned costs to implementation measures Ford never proposed. Among other examples, the campaign says the report wrongly assumes Ford would spend hundreds of millions expanding the state’s Battle Born health plans and partially replacing federal Medicaid reductions. Ford’s campaign says his platform instead calls for outreach surrounding the existing Battle Born program and federal advocacy to prevent or reverse Medicaid cuts, not new state appropriations to backfill them.

The Ford campaign also showed Fox News Digital its own fiscal analysis, arguing the platform could be implemented without raising taxes and with substantially lower direct state costs than those projected by Lombardo's campaign.

Asked about Ford's contention that the report assigns costs to implementation measures not contained in his platform, the Lombardo campaign said it estimated what it would actually take to fulfill Ford's campaign promises, arguing that regulatory changes, enforcement initiatives and expanded benefits all require staffing, oversight or funding even when those costs are not explicitly identified by the campaign.

Former Republican Nevada state Sen. Ben Kieckhefer, who previously served as chief of staff to Lombardo, told Fox News Digital that Ford's proposals would require significant tax increases, saying the level of spending "is simply not sustainable for Nevada."

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"There is no realistic way to absorb costs of that scale without significant tax increases," he said. "Regardless of political party, proposals of this magnitude deserve serious scrutiny because Nevadans expect responsible budgeting, fiscal discipline, and a clear explanation of how these promises would actually be paid for."

Nevada Democratic lawmaker Daniele Monroe-Moreno, chair of the Assembly Ways and Means Committee, told Fox News Digital the Lombardo report "uses fake math to lie about Attorney General Ford’s policy positions" and said Ford's platform consists of "common-sense policies that will save Nevadans money at very little to no cost to the state."

The attorney general has also faced mounting questions over his spending during his tenure.

In March, state records reviewed by Fox News Digital found Ford racked up more than $410,000 in travel costs since taking office in 2019, and also reported he spent more than 400 days outside Nevada. A spokesperson for the attorney general's office said the trips were tied to Ford's official duties and campaign activities and were permitted under Nevada law.

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Ford is currently under investigation by the Nevada Commission on Ethics over allegations he accepted improper gifts or benefits and used his office to improperly benefit himself, according to documents obtained by local outlets.

Lombardo is seeking a second term and will face Ford in November in one of the most closely watched gubernatorial races of the midterm elections.

Journalists demand White House Correspondents' Association 'speak truth to power' in new dinner with Trump

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 18:21:48 -0400

More than 500 journalists called on the White House Correspondents' Association to "forcefully stand up" to President Donald Trump on Tuesday ahead of its rescheduled dinner.

"Our message to the White House Correspondents' Association is now more urgent: forcefully stand up for freedom of the press in front of the President, publicly defend the journalists he attacks, and vow to resist his administration’s concerted effort to undermine the First Amendment," a letter, organized by former ABC News correspondent Lisa Stark and former executive producer Ian Cameron, said.

The journalists stated that since the original White House Correspondents' Dinner, the Trump administration has only become more "egregious" in its attacks against the press and encouraged members at the event to publicly condemn the president, who will be in attendance.

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"We believe it is hypocritical to celebrate the First Amendment in front of the man who relentlessly attacks it. We urge the WHCA to condemn the administration’s actions from the podium and pledge to fight all attempts by his administration to undermine this core pillar of a functioning democracy," the letter read.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, the WHCA appeared to stand by its plans to host Trump while still honoring the press.

"The White House Correspondents’ Dinner exists because the First Amendment matters most when it’s under pressure. As we continue to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, our choice to gather as journalists, newsmakers and the president in the same room is a reminder of what a free press means to this country — and why it must endure. Not for the media or the president, but for the people who depend on it," the statement read.

FLASHBACK: FIVE OF THE MOST POLITICALLY-CHARGED MOMENTS AT THE WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS' DINNER

The letter resembled a similar one put out by more than 200 journalists, including former CBS News anchor Dan Rather, in April urging that the dinner "cannot be business as usual."

"We, the undersigned, call upon the White House Correspondents' Association to use the occasion of the White House Correspondents' Dinner, to forcefully demonstrate opposition to President Trump’s efforts to trample freedom of the press," the open letter read.

"The dinner has long served as a symbol of the vital and irreplaceable role of a free press in American democracy and a celebration of the First Amendment and the journalists who uphold it. President Trump's systematic, sustained, and unprecedented attacks on the free press ... render his presence at such an event a profound contradiction of its purpose."

WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS' ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT ANNOUNCES EVENT BEING RESCHEDULED AFTER SHOOTING

The original White House Correspondents' Dinner ended abruptly April 25 at the Washington Hilton when an armed suspect attempted to storm the event in what authorities say was an assassination attempt against Trump. The event was then rescheduled for July 24 at the Waldorf Astoria.

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This year's White House Correspondents' Dinner is the first time Trump has attended the annual event as president after previously skipping it throughout his first term. He previously attended the dinner as a private citizen in 2011.

Sports media rushes to cast Ryan Clark as victim while portraying ESPN as the villain

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 18:18:29 -0400

Within hours of Ryan Clark’s dismissal, many of the biggest names in sports media had already reached the same conclusion: Clark was the victim and ESPN was the villain.

Stephen A. Smith said he confronted ESPN executives over the decision and called Clark "arguably the best NFL analyst in America." Emmanuel Acho accused the network of handling the situation in a "cowardly" and "wildly disrespectful" manner.

RYAN CLARK BECAME A HEADACHE FOR ESPN

Sarah Spain described Clark as "another incredibly smart, thoughtful, nuanced talent let go," while Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio declared that Clark took "the high road" after "ESPN took the low road."

Jemele Hill went even further.

Hill suggested Clark had "a hater," perhaps multiple haters, inside ESPN. She attacked OutKick as a "disgusting" right-wing "rag" and theorized that someone within the network intentionally leaked Clark’s dismissal to OutKick in order to create a conservative media narrative against him. She offered no evidence for that claim.

But the fact that Clark’s dismissal leaked so widely and so quickly raises a question that his defenders have mostly avoided: How many enemies had he made inside ESPN?

Much of the criticism centered on the fact that Clark was informed during a live edition of NFL Live. The assumption was that ESPN knowingly allowed a longtime employee to begin the show before abruptly firing him during a break.

I don’t think that’s what happened.

I think ESPN planned to inform Clark later and simply failed to anticipate that news of his dismissal would leak first. Once OutKick contacted the network with a confirmed story, ESPN realized it had lost control of the timeline and had to tell Clark before he learned about it publicly.

That’s not cruelty. It’s poor planning.

My colleague Bobby Burack and I developed separate lines of reporting that the network was preparing to part ways with Clark. Four sources confirmed the information. Despite concerns that alerting ESPN could jeopardize the story, I contacted the network’s communications department at 4 p.m. and asked ESPN to confirm or deny the report before our publication deadline.

ESPN asked us to wait until 5:45 p.m. while it was "trying to chase this down." We declined but told the network we would add anything it provided before that time. It's reasonable that ESPN wanted more time to inform Clark before the news became public.

At 4:49 p.m., ESPN unexpectedly told us we could "stick to" our original timeline. Fourteen minutes later, Andrew Marchand published a brief report in The Athletic. OutKick’s more detailed story followed one minute after that.

The most logical explanation is that ESPN believed it still had time to manage Clark’s exit quietly. Once OutKick informed the network that four sources had already confirmed the decision, executives were forced to accelerate a conversation they apparently had not planned to have during NFL Live.

ESPN’s mistake was not deciding to embarrass Clark on live television. It was failing to anticipate that the information would leak before the network was ready to tell him.

That raises a more uncomfortable question than the ones Clark’s defenders have been asking: Why were so many people inside or around ESPN willing to talk about his dismissal?

Hill may be correct that Clark had "haters" inside the company.

What she never seriously considered, or chose to ignore, is how he might have acquired them.

How Ryan Clark made enemies inside ESPN

I worked at ESPN for years and spent time in rooms with Clark. He appeared on several shows I produced. The thing I remember most clearly is how uncomfortable he could make those rooms.

Clark often carried himself as though he were the smartest person present, and he made sure everyone knew it. That dynamic was especially difficult for producers and other employees beneath him in ESPN’s hierarchy. There was little room to challenge him or offer feedback that amounted to anything other than telling him he was great.

I distinctly remember one NFL season when talent, producers and other ESPN employees gathered on Sunday afternoons to watch the games in a large conference room. There were usually 25 or 30 people there. The mood was light. Chris Berman often sat near the front and cracked jokes throughout the afternoon.

Clark joined the group one Sunday and sat in the back with his arms folded. Several times, someone offered an opinion about a game and Clark scoffed. Eventually, most people stopped talking. I left and watched the games from a control room because he had completely ruined the experience for me.

How dare anyone offer an opinion when the world’s greatest NFL analyst was available to explain what everyone else was apparently too stupid to understand?

That was one afternoon years ago. It does not prove why ESPN fired Clark, nor does it mean every person who worked with him had the same experience.

It does, however, make the speed of the leak less surprising to me.

People rarely risk their relationships with a company to leak sensitive personnel news about a universally beloved colleague.

Clark's defenders largely presented his dismissal as though it happened in a vacuum.

It didn't.

Clark was forced to apologize after making inaccurate claims on ESPN about the investigation into former LSU receiver Kyren Lacy’s role in a fatal crash. He presented claims from Lacy’s attorney as established fact and accused law enforcement of wrongdoing before Louisiana State Police released additional evidence that contradicted key parts of the story Clark told viewers.

He later acknowledged that he had failed to provide complete and accurate information.

Clark also admitted on ESPN that he had argued in favor of Bryce Young over C.J. Stroud despite privately believing Stroud was the superior quarterback. His explanation was that Young needed someone to support him publicly.

That’s a remarkable admission from an analyst whose job is supposed to be giving viewers his honest evaluation.

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Then there was Clark’s public feud with Robert Griffin III, during which he suggested Griffin was not qualified to discuss Black women because he is married to a White woman. The dispute became deeply personal and reportedly frustrated people inside ESPN. This led to another Clark apology.

Then there was Clark’s on-air confrontation with Peter Schrager that became another viral controversy. Clark later apologized (again), but the exchange likely contributed to concerns among network executives.

Plus, Clark’s difficult relationship with ESPN management was hardly limited to interpersonal friction.

His 2024 contract negotiations became a public spectacle. Clark allowed his deal to expire, posted videos about his status and openly applied pressure to the network while seeking a substantial raise. ESPN eventually brought him back on a deal reportedly worth around $2 million per year, but the process was contentious.

ESPN executives do not enjoy being publicly cornered during contract negotiations, particularly by employees using their own platforms to rally outside pressure against the company.

My belief is that Clark’s 2024 extension was always going to be his final contract with ESPN. The network may have decided that keeping him temporarily was preferable to another public fight at the time, while also concluding it had no desire to negotiate with him again.

That would help explain why ESPN was willing to move on despite his high salary and recent extension. The decision may not have been prompted by one argument, one apology or one uncomfortable television segment. It may have been the culmination of a relationship that had already run its course.

Essentially, Clark’s tenure had become more complicated than his defenders acknowledged.

Spain praised him as "thoughtful" and "nuanced" without mentioning the multiple inaccurate claims that forced him to apologize on national television. Hill assumed the existence of internal enemies proved something nefarious without examining Clark’s own role in creating friction. Smith emphasized Clark’s talent, which was never really in dispute.

Acho offered perhaps the most exaggerated defense, claiming Clark helped build NFL Live into the "juggernaut it is today."

Acho pointed to the show’s Sports Emmy victories as evidence. But awards demonstrate that people within the television industry and the Hollywood elites like a program. They do not necessarily demonstrate that the public at large enjoys a show.

The available audience data show that NFL Live drew larger audiences before Clark became one of the faces of the program than it has in recent years. ESPN reported that the show averaged 688,000 viewers during a comparable early-season period in 2013 and 624,000 in 2012. It averaged roughly 486,000 in 2015, 492,000 in 2016, 449,000 in 2021 and 440,000 in 2025.

That doesn't mean Clark hurt NFL Live. It does make the claim that he "built" a show that debuted in 1998 into a modern ratings juggernaut impossible to support.

The argument becomes even more amusing when compared with Acho’s commentary about Caitlin Clark. He has argued that the WNBA would be better off without her, even though she has driven enormous gains in television audiences, attendance and general interest.

By Acho’s standard, Caitlin Clark has a much stronger claim to having "built" the modern WNBA than Ryan Clark does to having built NFL Live.

Apparently, the meaning of the word depends on which Clark is receiving the credit.

By the time ESPN reached this week’s layoffs, Clark was an expensive employee who had publicly pressured the company during his previous contract negotiation, accumulated enemies inside the building and repeatedly created controversies outside it.

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The sports media narrative was that ESPN betrayed Ryan Clark.

OutKick's reporting suggested something different.

ESPN didn’t lose control of the story because OutKick uncovered some closely guarded secret. It lost control because too many people already knew.

And too many people were willing to talk.

That doesn’t happen by accident.

William Shatner and daughter Melanie reveal they battled Stage 4 cancer at the same time

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 18:09:16 -0400

William Shatner and his 61-year-old daughter revealed this week that the two of them battled cancer at the same time several years ago.

Melanie Shatner Gretsch first discovered her cancer four years ago when she woke up in the middle of the night and felt a little lump on her breast she thought might be a bug bite.

She told People magazine she decided to have it checked out despite a mammogram not finding anything just five months earlier.

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Although the technician didn’t find anything during a scan the next day, "something pushed me back and said, ‘No, have her recheck it.’ She put the wand exactly where I put my finger and under her breath said, ‘Now, I would have missed that.’"

She was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer that had spread to lymph nodes in her chest.

Shatner said his daughter was "very conscious of the importance of her life for herself and for her family. I was devastated."

Gretsch is a mother to two daughters she shares with husband Joel Gretsch.

Gretsch said her father told her not to worry about the medical costs and to send him the bills.

"Then you made me laugh so hard when I was still going to the doctor a year later," she added. "You said, ‘You’ve got to get well. We’re going to be in the poorhouse.’"

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For the next 18 months, her life was filled with multiple rounds of chemo, 30 radiation treatments and a double mastectomy.

"Chemo was the most physically draining, and the radiation I found so emotionally draining," she admitted.

Just as she was nearing the end of her treatments, a lump appeared on her dad’s cheek.

He said a family doctor told him it was just a blocked salivary gland that was nothing to worry about, but a doctor friend whose advice he asked while they were horseback riding advised him to get it removed.

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"He placed his hands on my cheeks, and he said with love in his voice, ‘You better get this out,’" Shatner explained.

In June 2023, Shatner was diagnosed with Stage 4 malignant melanoma that had spread to his lungs and brain.

"I remember vividly thinking, ‘I don’t have the strength to take care of myself and lose my father at the same time,’" Gretsch admitted.

Shatner was more upbeat.

"They said, ‘You got cancer. If you came in later, you would have been dead.’ See? That’s my life. I think the universe is taking care of me."

The 95-year-old had the tumor removed and underwent two years of immunotherapy.

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"He wouldn’t stop his life," his daughter told People magazine. "He kept working and moving forward. Whenever he was home, Joel and I would bring dinner to him and watch movies, just always made sure that he’s not alone."

Shatner added, "We got the perfect doctors for her cancer and my cancer."

The "Star Trek" actor, who was the oldest man in space when he went up in a Blue Origin rocket, has stayed busy with two new books and two records, all expected to come out next year.

"I’m healthier now than I’ve been in years," Shatner said. "The brain is like a muscle. It feeds on activity."

Near the end of 2024, both were declared cancer free.

"It was the third time in my life I had heard him cry," Gretsch admitted of telling him her cancer was gone.

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Shatner said the experience has given him a new perspective on life.

"I’m thinking of the miracle of a hummingbird, and of my dog taking a ball and my children," he said. "I’m aware of the magic of it all."