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Florida man reveals bizarre trick that won Key lime pie-eating championship without using his hands

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:34:10 -0400

A Florida man who finally captured the title at the World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship said his winning strategy came down to eliminating the biggest obstacle first: the whipped cream.

Florida Keys resident Kevin Renly, 62, claimed victory at the annual Fourth of July competition in Key West after devouring a whipped cream-topped 9-inch Key lime pie in 59.6 seconds — all without using his hands.

Contestants were required to eat the pies without using their hands, though goggles and dive masks were allowed.

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After finishing runner-up in 2024 and 2025, Renly said he spent time refining his approach before this year's competition.

"You didn't have to eat the cream. So, I figured, 'How am I going to get rid of the cream real fast?'" Renly told Fox News Digital. "So that's what I figured out. I take my shirt off and dive into it, pull up and the whipped cream is on my chest."

Once the topping was out of the way, Renly flipped the pie upside down to tackle what he considered the toughest part.

"How are you going to eat the crust? That's the worst part, because it was just so dry," he said. "No problem. We'll just flip it upside down and eat it that way."

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Held as part of the five-day Key Lime Festival, the competition is Key West's tropical twist on Nathan's Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest and drew hundreds of spectators as 25 contestants plunged face-first into whipped cream-covered pies.

Renly, who co-owns Southernmost Bees with his wife, Julie, joked after this year's victory that the "third time's the charm." He had previously referred to himself as the "first loser" after consecutive second-place finishes.

The win carried extra meaning because the contest fell on the wedding anniversary he shares with his wife, Julie.

"I didn't want to go home and tell her I'd lost again," Renly said after the competition.

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Renly said his motivation also extended beyond personal bragging rights. He wanted to keep the championship trophy in the Florida Keys.

"I sat there watching and thought, 'Wait a minute. All these people come [from] out of town and they take this trophy home,'" he told Fox News Digital. "This trophy needs to stay here locally, so some locals have got to keep it here."

Key lime pie was designated as Florida's official pie in 2006.

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The iconic dessert is traditionally made with Key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks in a graham cracker crust topped with whipped cream or meringue.

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Now that he's won, Renly already has his sights set on making history.

"No one's ever repeated for a win," he said. "Now I've got a new goal — to be the first repeat."

James Comer fires back at Democrats' vow to investigate Trump's America 250 bash

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:24:08 -0400

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., blasted Democrats Sunday for accusing President Donald Trump of hijacking America's 250th birthday celebration for political and financial gain, arguing the attacks reflect hatred for the president rather than love of country.

"[Democrats] would rather Donald Trump fail and America fail than celebrate the success of our founding fathers and the fact that we are the greatest nation on the planet," Comer told "The Big Weekend Show."

"We are the greatest nation in the history of the world. Anyone can become anything in America because of the sacrifices of our founding fathers, the sacrifices of our soldiers, the sacrifices of our American heroes, and that's what last night was all about."

TRUMP SET TO DELIVER 'HISTORIC' SPEECH CELEBRATING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

Comer's remarks came after Rep. Jared Huffman, D-Calif., the top Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee, released a 55-page report accusing Trump of transforming the America 250 celebration into a partisan spectacle that advanced his political and religious agenda.

"[This follows] months of investigative work by Committee Democrats exposing how Donald Trump hijacked what was supposed to be a unifying, non-political celebration of our country's 250th birthday and made it all about him – his vanity projects, his political and religious agenda, his business ventures, and his cronies who gorged on public funds under cover of a shadow corporation shielded from public scrutiny," a press release said of the report.

More specifically, the release accused the Trump administration of creating the "shadow organization" Freedom 250 LLC and making it a central part of celebrations after the America 250 Commission "refused to bend to the President's demands."

WHITE HOUSE TOUTS TRUMP’S ‘BOLD VISION’ FOR TOWERING INDEPENDENCE ARCH FOR AMERICA 250

It alleged the group used the nation's semiquincentennial to sell access to Trump, redirect donor money intended for America250 and enrich Trump allies through lucrative contracts.

Some Democrats have signaled the effort could face congressional scrutiny if Democrats regain the House majority in November.

"I believe it will be [investigated]," Rep. Adelita Grijalva, D-Ariz., told MS NOW on Friday.

BILL MAHER TELLS LIBERALS TO STOP 'PARTISAN SULKING' AND JOIN AMERICA 250 PARTY

Comer dismissed the Democrats' criticisms as politically motivated, arguing the party is more interested in investigating Trump than conducting meaningful oversight.

"Oversight is in full swing," he said, responding to Democratic Rep. Brendan Boyle's insistence that oversight will come if Democrats win.

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"We are investigating waste, fraud and abuse. That's what the Oversight Committee is about..." he added.

"President Trump made the focus about honoring our heroes and being proud to be an American, and all the Democrats want to do is say, 'If you vote for us, we'll investigate Trump for wasting money on an independent celebration that, by the way, mentioned Christianity, even though our country was founded by people seeking freedom of religion.' So this is just a perfect example of the Democrats, and I think that all they're going to do if they flip the House and become the majority in the House is investigate and harass Donald Trump."

The summer walking essentials that make hot days more comfortable, from $10

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:17:21 -0400

Hot weather doesn't have to keep you from your daily walk. We've rounded up essentials — from UPF shirts and insulated water bottles to breathable sneakers — to help you stay cool, comfortable and moving all summer long.

Warm-weather apparel

These shirts, hats, socks and other apparel deliver cooling comfort.

UPF 50+ sun protection shirt: $9.99 (33% off)

Original price: $14.99

Protect your skin from the sun with this UPF 50+ long-sleeve shirt. The quick-drying fabric helps wick away moisture to keep you cooler and more comfortable on walks.

Men’s quick-dry polo: $12.99 (48% off)

Original price: $24.98

This quick-drying polo is versatile enough for everything from daily errands to workouts. Its lightweight, breathable fabric helps keep you cool on hot days, and at just $13, its easy to stock up on multiple colors.

Nike women's Dri-FIT shorts: $50

Nike Dri-FIT shorts help keep you cool and comfortable on every walk. Moisture-wicking fabric and a relaxed fit promote airflow, while the high-rise waistband provides a secure fit. Men can also shop Nike's Dri-FIT basketball shorts for the same lightweight comfort.

Men's athletic shorts, 5-pack: $19.98 (55% off)

Original price: $43.99

Refresh your warm-weather wardrobe with this five-pack of athletic shorts. The versatile neutral colors pair easily with your favorite T-shirts, so you'll always have a comfortable option ready for walks, workouts and weekend outings.

Real Essentials women's Dry-Fit T-shirts, 5-pack: $34.99

Stay stocked for every workout with this five-pack of Dry-Fit T-shirts. The stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric helps keep you cool and comfortable during walks, yoga sessions and hikes, while the lightly tailored fit offers a flattering silhouette. A similar five-pack is also available for men.

Hanes moisture-wicking socks, 12 pairs: $16.98 (6% off)

Original price: $17.48

Keep your feet cool and comfortable with these moisture-wicking Hanes socks. They help manage sweat during long walks, while built-in odor control helps keep them feeling fresher for longer.

Anti-blister running socks: $14.27 (21% off)

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Prevent blisters with these cushioned running socks featuring protective heel tabs. An elastic cuff helps keep each sock securely in place, while moisture-wicking, odor-resistant fabric keeps your feet cool and comfortable mile after mile.

Bucket hat: $19.99 (33% off)

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Shield yourself from the sun with this unisex bucket hat. Its wet-to-cool technology activates when damp to help keep you cool on hot walks, and it's machine-washable for easy cleanup after sweaty days.

Warm-weather shoes and accessories

Grab shoes and accessories that make you more comfortable while you move.

New Balance men's 520 v9 shoes: $69.99

Stay comfortable on long walks with these New Balance sneakers. Soft foam cushioning helps absorb impact, while the breathable mesh upper promotes airflow without adding extra weight.

Women's barefoot sneakers: $35.61 (32% off)

Original price: $52.46

Joomra's barefoot sneakers are Amazon's current No. 1 best seller, backed by more than 20,000 positive reviews. Their minimalist design delivers a lightweight feel, while removable insoles let you add extra arch support when you want it.

Skechers women's Go Walk sneakers: $50.37

A FOX favorite, Skechers Go Walk sneakers slip on hands-free for added convenience. The breathable mesh upper promotes airflow, while Skechers' cushioned midsole helps keep every step comfortable.

Skechers men's Go Walk Max Effort sneakers: $49.99 (30% off)

Original price: $71

Skechers Go Walk Max Effort sneakers combine a cushioned insole with a flexible outsole for lasting comfort. They're a solid choice for anyone who spends long hours on their feet or enjoys daily walks.

Goodr polarized sunglasses: $30

Protect your eyes without overspending with Goodr polarized sunglasses. The no-slip coating and silicone nose inserts help keep them securely in place, whether you're walking, running or tackling other outdoor activities.

Oakley Holbrook sunglasses: $184

Oakley's classic polarized sunglasses pair timeless style with dependable performance. The polarized lenses help reduce glare, while the durable frame is built to handle everyday wear.

Walking and running gear

Round out your walking and running kit with water bottles, bags and more.

Owala FreeSip stainless steel water bottle: $23.99 (20% off)

Original price: $29.99

Stay hydrated on every walk with the Owala FreeSip water bottle. Its unique design lets you sip through the built-in straw or tilt the bottle to drink, while the insulated stainless construction keeps water cold all day. A pop-up carry handle makes it easy to take on the go.

Waterfly crossbody bag: $21.95 (20% off)

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A sling crossbody bag keeps your phone, keys and wallet within easy reach without weighing down your pockets. It features two water bottle holders, a spacious main compartment and multiple exterior pockets to keep essentials organized.

Waterfly running belt: $18.91 (14% off)

Original price: $21.99

The lightweight Waterfly running belt carries your phone, earbuds and other essentials without adding bulk. It sits securely around your waist for a barely-there feel on walks and runs.

Water-resistant running vest: $34.99 (22% off)

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If you prefer to keep weight off your waist, this running vest offers plenty of storage for your essentials. Fully adjustable straps fit sizes XS to XXL for a secure, comfortable fit.

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Running armband: $9.99 (23% off)

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Keep your phone close without carrying it in your hand with this running armband. The clear touchscreen window provides easy access on the go, while a hidden pocket stores cash, keys or an AirPods case.

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

FIFA president addresses Trump call amid scrutiny over decision on USA World Cup star

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:01:44 -0400

FIFA President Gianni Infantino released a statement on Monday addressing his interactions with President Donald Trump amid USA World Cup star Folarin Balogun’s suspended one-game ban.

Trump told reporters he asked Infantino if FIFA would review the play. Infantino said in his release that "FIFA’s judicial bodies are independent" and "operate autonomously, apply the FIFA Disciplinary Code, and decide cases based on the applicable regulations and the specific facts before them."

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"Yes, I regularly discuss matters related to the FIFA World Cup with the President of the United States, and on this matter, I did receive a call from President Donald Trump, just as I receive calls from heads of state, government officials, football stakeholders and business executives from around the world on many different issues," he said. "During our conversation, I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA’s independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies. That is how FIFA’s system works, and it is a principle that I will always uphold.

"I read the decisions of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee when they are issued. Sometimes I am surprised by them. Sometimes I agree with them, and sometimes I disagree.

"What I always do, however, is respect those decisions and the autonomy of the bodies that make them. Whether we personally like a decision or not is irrelevant. Respect for independent institutions and the rule of law is what protects the integrity of our competitions and the credibility of FIFA at all times."

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Balogun was given a red card after a VAR review to look at a play in which Balogun stepped on the ankle of a Bosnia and Herzegovina defender. He would have been suspended for the team’s match against Belgium but FIFA decided to suspend the one-game ban.

Trump addressed the controversy in the Oval Office.

"All I did was, I asked for a review, because I didn’t think it was a foul," the president said. "And again, I’m good at this stuff. I didn’t think it was a foul. I thought it was two great athletes who crashed into each other and got entangled. That was not a guy punching somebody in the face or anything that would be different.

"I think it’s a terrible … if they wouldn’t allow a top player, maybe the best, maybe among the best on the team, to play, I think it would have had a big stain. I relayed it. I didn’t tell him what to do. I don’t believe he made the decision. I think it was a committee that made the decision and they made the right decision because, No. 1, it wasn’t a foul and you want to see a game with your best players."

Trump said the feeling would be the same if Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo or Harry Kane would have been given a red card in a similar way.

He also took issue with the call itself.

"If you would have taken him out, I think it would have really stained this incredible championship," Trump continued. "We gotta have our best players and Belgium, Belgium’s got a great team by the way. We have our best players and they have to have their best. If we win or we lose, it’s fair. Otherwise, let’s say we lost to them, then we lost the game. It would be a terrible thing. I think they made a really brilliant decision.

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"I think the referee’s call was horrible and nobody talks about that. They talk about the red card like it’s fine. The referee’s decision to red card, I didn’t know what the hell a red card was and when I found out I said, ‘You gotta be kidding.’ … I said, ‘Wow, that’s a lot of power, that’s terrible.’ And then I looked at his past and it wasn’t so great."

Belgium’s appeal was dismissed later Monday.

Pastor freed from Chinese prison after Trump raised his case with Xi Jinping

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:41 -0400

The pastor of a prominent underground church in China who was imprisoned by Chinese authorities last year has been released and reunited with his family in the U.S., according to reports.

Ezra Jin, founder of Zion Church, was one of nearly 30 Zion Church pastors and staff members detained in October during one of China’s largest crackdowns on evangelical churches in decades, according to the nonprofit advocacy group Luke Alliance.

Jin was released from detention and arrived in Los Angeles on Friday, ChinaAid reported. According to the Christian human rights organization, Chinese authorities told Jin he was being released due to negotiations between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

During a high-profile state visit to Beijing in May, Trump raised Jin’s case directly with the Chinese leader. On his flight back to the U.S., Trump told reporters that Xi promised to "strongly consider" the pastor's release.

PRESIDENT TRUMP REVEALS XI JINPING'S RESPONSE TO POSSIBLY RELEASING IMPRISONED CHINESE CRITIC JIMMY LAI

"We are feeling so overwhelmed with joy. We thank God for this tremendous miracle," his daughter Grace Jin Drexel said in a family statement to CNN.

"We also thank President Trump and his administration for their tremendous leadership," she said, adding that this would not have been possible "without the direct intervention from Chairman Xi Jinping."

The family had been separated for nearly a decade, after Drexel's mother and brothers fled China in 2018 after authorities shut down Zion Church’s physical sanctuary in Beijing. Drexel previously told Fox News Digital her father felt called to stay behind in China. She had not seen him in person since 2020.

Drexel also said that the family hoped Jin’s release would be "a signal of a positive turn for people of faith in China and relations between our two nations."

BRONX MAN CONVICTED OF RUNNING SECRET CHINESE POLICE STATION IN MANHATTAN USED TO MONITOR DISSIDENTS

Jin’s case drew international outcry, with advocacy groups like ChinaAid calling the church arrests "politically motivated."

The organization said the arrests marked "a dramatic escalation in the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) war on religious freedom."

"These pastors and co-workers are being treated as criminals simply because they faithfully shepherded a large, legally unregistered church that refused to submit to CCP control and surveillance," ChinaAid said in a November statement calling for their release and international pressure.

MARCO RUBIO SAYS US WILL PUSH CHINA TO TAKE A MORE 'ACTIVE ROLE' IN IRAN NEGOTIATIONS AHEAD OF TRUMP-XI SUMMIT

Secretary of State Marco Rubio denounced the detentions of the Zion Church members in October and asked the Chinese government to release them.

Ahead of his travels to Beijing in May, Trump vowed to raise Jin's case directly with Xi.

"I’ll bring it up," Trump told The Hill reporter Julia Manchester when asked whether he planned to press Xi about the detained pastor.

"As he has said publicly, President Trump raised Pastor Jin’s detention directly with Xi Jinping," a U.S. official told Fox News Digital. "He will always champion religious freedom around the world. He brought up Jimmy Lai’s case as he said he would."

ChinaAid celebrated the pastor's release in a press statement and thanked the Trump administration for its efforts to secure Jin's release.

"We rejoice with Pastor Ezra Jin, his family, and the global Body of Christ on this remarkable Independence Day miracle," Rev. Dr. Bob Fu, Founder and President of ChinaAid, said in a statement. "We thank Almighty God for hearing the prayers of His people. We are deeply grateful to President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and all U.S. officials who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to secure Pastor Jin’s freedom. Their unwavering commitment demonstrates that principled leadership and persistent diplomacy can make a life-saving difference."

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Fu noted that while Jin was released, eight other Zion Church pastors and members, along with practitioners from other religions, remain "unjustly imprisoned by the Chinese Communist Party."

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"We respectfully call on President Trump and his Administration to continue making religious freedom and the release of all prisoners of faith a top priority in every engagement with Beijing," Fu added. "True progress in U.S.-China relations must include freedom for those imprisoned simply because they choose to believe."

Fox News' Ashley Carnahan and Efrat Lachter contributed to this report.

Jasmine Crockett warns Democrats are too focused on White voters, ignoring Black voters

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:48:00 -0400

Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, suggested the Democratic Party was too focused on trying to win over White voters while ignoring more reliable Black voters during the Fourth of July weekend.

During an interview with The Root at the Essence Festival in New Orleans, Crockett said that Black Americans feel ignored by the party despite their loyalty.

"When you walk into a room full of Black people, you can almost guarantee that they believe in the Democratic ideals," Crockett said. "When you walk into a room full of White people, you don’t know what you walking into."

"If there’s any group of people that the party should be most loyal to and most vocal about, it’s Black people," Crockett said. "Because Black people have historically held this down."

WATCH: OBAMA, HARRIS ADVISOR WARNS ‘BETRAYED’ BLACK VOTERS COULD BE TEXAS SENATE CANDIDATE'S KRYPTONITE

Crockett said Black voters have been asking whether Democrats will speak out about issues affecting them, including political representation, Black maternal mortality and Black women losing jobs.

"Black people are saying, ‘Are y’all going to say anything about our representation that is being deleted like, in a very sinister and calculated way?’" Crockett said.

Crockett said she hears from Black Americans who feel the party is not prioritizing their concerns.

"And so what you see is that Black people are consistently being ignored, or I feel like that’s what I hear," she said.

DEMOCRATIC LAWMAKER CLAIMS BLACK AMERICANS WILL STOP VOTING IF THEY DON'T GET REPARATIONS

The Texas Democrat said her party needs to establish a "baseline" for the party’s different constituencies, including Black Americans, Latinos, women and the LGBTQIA community.

"We have to say, as a baseline, we will not accept anybody that does not stand for these very basic things," Crockett said. "And frankly, for Black folk, it’s just honestly acknowledging our humanity."

Crockett also said Democrats must do more to reach voters who sat out the 2024 election, arguing many Americans do not feel represented by either major political party.

"You had a little over 70 million that voted for the Democrat and voted for the Republican," Crockett said. "But you had more people sit out than voted for either one."

WE ASKED AMERICANS TO GRADE THE ECONOMY. THEN WE ASKED IF IT WOULD CHANGE THEIR VOTE.

Crockett said many nonvoters believe their lives have not changed regardless of which party is in power.

"People need to understand that there are certain people that say, ‘It doesn’t matter if it’s a Democrat or a Republican, my life has never changed,’" Crockett said.

She said politicians need to stop "talking at people" and instead engage directly with Americans who are struggling.

"You have people that literally are saying, ‘I don’t know how I’m going to eat,’" Crockett said. "So they’re looking at people, and they’re like, ‘You would never even talk to me.’"

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Crockett also criticized what she called "White leftists" who focus on one issue while people who rely on government services struggle to get attention.

"You talk about the left. The left has decided that they — and, granted, I mean, I’m a progressive, I started the progressive caucus, all the things — but I know what you’re saying when you’re talking about the left," Crockett said. "You’re talking about the White leftists that are doing the most in this moment."

Crockett urged voters to engage beyond presidential elections, including at city council meetings, state capitals and in Congress.

"Everything in our lives, from the cost of food, the cost of gas, whether or not jobs are available, the cost of housing, healthcare, education, the roads, everything is a political decision," Crockett said.

"There’s a mad man that’s like in the White House," Crockett said. "Like that scares me."

Crockett said she was also concerned about the courts and whether Democrats would respond aggressively enough.

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"We have to have Democrats that want to be half as courageous as they are cruel," Crockett said. "And then we will start to see some real wins for the American people."

FIFA dismisses Belgium appeal over decision on USA's Folarin Balogun

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:04:43 -0400

FIFA denied Belgium’s appeal over the decision to suspend USA World Cup star Folarin Balogun’s one-game ban for a red card in a Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The FIFA Appeal Committee issued a statement hours before kickoff between the U.S. and Belgium.

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"The FIFA Appeal Committee has rendered a request submitted by the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) as inadmissible in relation to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee’s decision to suspend for one year the match suspension imposed on United States national-team player Folarin Balogun following his dismissal for a direct red card during the FIFA World Cup 2026 match between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina, played on 1 July 2026 at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium," FIFA said. "The chairperson of the FIFA Appeal Committee, Neil Eggleston (from the United States), was not involved in the decision.

"The request was rendered inadmissible on the grounds that the RBFA is not a party to the proceedings and, as such, has no standing to appeal the decision."

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The RBFA responded after the decision was made.

"To date, the RBFA has still not received any grounds for this decision, nor has it received the information it has been requesting since the start of this procedure id est a copy of the decision and the motivation declaring the player eligible as well as the referee's report. Which is a breach of FIFA regulations," the federation said.

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"The RBFA has informed the United States Soccer Federation that it contests the eligibility of the player, should the player be listed on the referee's team sheet. This leaves all further actions open."

Biohacker hoping to live to 160 reveals alarming diagnosis: 'My stomach is eating itself'

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:38:38 -0400

Bryan Johnson, a biohacker and longevity guru who has claimed "we may be the first generation who won’t die," revealed he has an autoimmune condition causing his stomach to "eat itself."

The Los Angeles-based tech entrepreneur, 48, has previously shared publicly that he is hoping to live until the year 2140, when he would in theory be 160 years old.

Now, Johnson says he has been diagnosed with autoimmune gastritis (AIG), a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the stomach's acid-producing parietal cells, reducing stomach acid and impairing vitamin B12 absorption, according to Nature Reviews Disease Primers.

HOW A 93-YEAR-OLD SOCCER REFEREE CREDITS WARTIME RATIONS AND DISCIPLINE FOR HIS LONGEVITY

"My stomach is eating itself," he wrote in an Instagram post. Johnson also shared that anywhere from 2% to 5% of people likely have this disease.

"I’m going to try to solve it," Johnson went on. "Will share all."

The biohacker shared that as a child, he ate sugary cereal, drank sugary soda and "gobbled down fast food."

"I became a young father of three and began building a business," Johnson went on. "Juggling that stress and grind, I let my health slip and gained 40 lbs. Within a few years I’d fallen into a deep, chronic depression."

DOCTORS SAY 8 FORGOTTEN HABITS COULD HELP FIGHT STRESS, OBESITY AND CHRONIC DISEASE

"Somewhere in that timeline, my body began developing an autoimmune process affecting my thyroid and then my stomach lining," he added.

Fox News Digital reached out to Johnson for comment.

AIG can remain hidden and can be challenging to diagnose, Johnson noted, often surfacing years after damage has already occurred to the stomach. It can cause iron deficiency, B12 deficiency and anemia, and can also increase the risk of stomach cancer, the expert warned.

"Low iron stores get normalized and rarely investigated at all when anemia hasn’t shown up yet," Johnson wrote. "That blind spot is what hid mine for a decade."

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He also shared that for 11 years, he has had low levels of ferritin, a protein that stores iron inside the body's cells. Ferritin releases iron when the body needs it, supports muscle function and carries out other essential processes.

"We continually tried to raise my iron levels with food and supplementation, but nothing would work," he said.

Johnson acknowledged that some common biohacking techniques — including hard training, sauna and hyperbaric oxygen — all raise the body’s demand for iron.

"But none of them explained the core failure: Despite me taking iron orally, trailing every formulation and using every timing trick, none of the iron would stick."

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Johnson underwent a colonoscopy and upper endoscopy, which examined his entire intestinal tract. Five biopsies were also taken from his stomach, which found "clear signs of early autoimmune gastritis: early atrophy confined to the acid-producing lining."

In January 2026, the biohacker stated in a post on his website that "by 2039, my goal is immortality."

He detailed his strategy for defying aging, which includes embracing a strict regimen to slow or stop biological aging, using AI to accelerate longevity research, testing new treatments in lab-grown cells and organs, and reaching "longevity escape velocity" — in which medical advances would eventually extend lifespan faster than he ages.

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"I may fail at this task, but my team and I will try our best," he wrote at the time.

There is currently no cure for AIG, which Johnson said he wants to change.

"In the age of AI, multiomics, and custom-built DNA, proteins and cells, no condition should be presumed incurable simply because no one has yet tried to cure it with today’s stack."

Johnson ended his post by urging others to prioritize their health.

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"Care for yourself, care for others, care for the planet and care for our animal friends. Care for life, as it’s the most precious gift there is."

The longevity guru also shared an image showing the detailed findings of his five stomach biopsies.

5 lab-grown diamond brands worth your money right now — and what to buy

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:42:49 -0500

Lab-grown diamonds are gaining traction among shoppers who want maximum sparkle without the traditional markup. Many buyers now choose lab-grown stones over natural diamonds for several reasons. But are they the real deal?

Are lab-grown diamonds real?

Yes! Lab-grown and naturally mined diamonds look identical to the naked eye. Lab-grown stones feature the same intricate cuts and sparkle as natural diamonds, but cost far less.

Here’s why: Manufacturers create lab-grown diamonds in controlled settings rather than mining them from the earth, which lowers production costs and lets buyers choose a larger or higher-quality stone for the same budget.

"They are both real diamonds," says MiaDonna sales director Justine Elliott. "They’re 100% carbon and chemically, physically and optically identical. To the naked eye, they are completely indistinguishable."

Best places to buy lab-grown diamond jewelry

If you’re comparing options, Angara, With Clarity, Brilliant Earth, Ritani and Quince stand out for their selection, craftsmanship and overall value, and each brand offers standout pieces worth a closer look. From earrings and rings to bracelets and pendants, shoppers have plenty of options to choose from.

Angara

Angara crafts meaningful jewelry with lab-grown diamonds designed for everyday wear. Use promo code AFFEVERGREEN to save up to 15% – including 12% off orders over $500 and 15% off orders over $3,000.

Classic trio lab-grown diamond necklace: $1,961 (12% off)

Original price: $2,229

This classic trio necklace features three lab-grown diamonds that symbolize love and commitment — past, present and future. The 14K yellow gold setting securely holds each stone while creating a striking contrast that helps the round diamonds shine.

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New Laker Walker Kessler popped the question to his former Miss America girlfriend Abbie Stockard

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:31:44 -0400

The Los Angeles Lakers have themselves a center with impeccable vision, and I'm not talking about his eyesight. I don't know if they knew it when they traded for Walker Kessler, but he's not just bringing a 7-foot frame with him.

He'll give them close to double-digits in points and rebounds along with a couple of blocks a night, but what can't be calculated on a stat sheet is the vision I mentioned. He put it on display over the Fourth of July weekend.

Walker Kessler is now engaged. He popped the question to former Auburn cheerleader and Miss America 2025 girlfriend Abbie Stockard. There it is, there's the impeccable vision.

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Not for proposing to a former Miss America, but for the timing of the proposal. He could have done so at any time, and he chose the Fourth of July weekend to do so. It's a smart move.

Look, it's not easy to keep track of all the dates of significance in a relationship, especially after the years go by. Kessler isn’t going to have a hard time remembering when he and Stockard got engaged at all.

That's an easy one. He set it up with a point of reference. It was the weekend of America's 250th birthday and that is going to be as reflexive of a response as his birthday.

LEBRON JAMES THANKS LAKERS AHEAD OF FREE AGENCY DEPARTURE FOR 24TH NBA SEASON: 'HOPE I MADE A FEW PROUD'

Walker Kessler has more work to do as he takes his talents to Los Angeles

Without hesitation, he's going to be able to fire that off as long as these two are married. There's not going to be this underlying "why can't he even remember when he asked me to marry him" tension in this marriage.

Kessler now has to assist in setting up the wedding, and he has to hope that he can convince his better half to lock that date down around another easy-to-remember event of significance.

OUTKICK IS NOW ON THE FOX APP: CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

Congratulations to Kessler and Stockard on their engagement. And congratulations to the Lakers.

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With this kind of vision, he's going to be worth every bit of his reported new $130 million deal, even if he is coming off of a shoulder injury that limited him to only five games last season.

ICE makes nationwide arrests of illegal immigrants, murderers, pedophiles in holiday blitz

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:23:26 -0400

EXCLUSIVE: Federal immigration authorities had a busy Independence Day weekend, arresting illegal immigrants all over the country, including some with convictions for murder, burglary and child sex crimes, during a holiday sweep.

The arrests came as many Americans were celebrating the nation's 250th birthday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said Monday.

"While Americans celebrated the 250th anniversary of the greatest nation on Earth, the brave men and women of ICE were arresting the worst of the worst, including multiple murderers, pedophiles, rapists, kidnappers, drunk drivers, drug traffickers, and other dangerous public safety threats," said DHS acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis. "Our law enforcement officers work around the clock, even on holidays, to make our communities safer."

ICE NABS ILLEGAL ALIENS CONVICTED OF CHILD SEX CRIMES AND METH TRAFFICKING IN NATIONWIDE ENFORCEMENT SWEEP

Bis noted that under President Donald Trump, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has hired 12,000 new officers and agents in less than a year, more than doubling the agency's workforce.

"Thanks to President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, we have an additional 12,000 ICE officers who will continue delivering on the American people’s mandate to make our nation SAFE AGAIN," she said.

Those arrested over the weekend included Radimir Thompson-Nagle, a Panamanian citizen with criminal convictions for murder and assault in Brooklyn, New York, ICE said.

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT WHO KILLED AMERICAN WOMAN OUTSIDE HER HOME WALKS FREE DECADES LATER – THEN INTO ICE CUSTODY

Marcos Rubio-Hernandez, a Mexican citizen, was previously convicted of second-degree murder and kidnapping in Wilson County, North Carolina. Roberto Gutierrez-Diaz, also from Mexico, has convictions for sodomy (victim less than 12 years old), sexual abuse (victim less than 12 years old), attempted rape (domestic violence), and burglary in Louisville, Kentucky.

Francisco Olmedo-Silva, from Mexico, has convictions spanning Oregon, Wyoming and Pennsylvania for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, escaping from custody and robbery.

Pedro Mazorra-Herrera, from Cuba, was convicted of aggravated stalking, resisting an officer with violence, burglary with assault or battery and cocaine possession in Miami, Florida.

Monday's announcement came as the Trump administration continues its deportation campaign targeting criminal illegal immigrants and pushing back on sanctuary jurisdictions.

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"Sanctuary city politicians who put illegal alien criminals over their own citizens are a national security threat," DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin posted Monday on X. "Seven of the 10 safest cities in America cooperate with @ICEgov. Meanwhile, @GovernorVA has created a hotbed of illegal alien criminal activity in her own backyard."

Mullin's remarks came in response to a Fox News Digital story stating that Fairfax County, Virginia, has refused to transfer 615 illegal immigrants to ICE over the past 16 months while turning over just 11. The county designated itself a sanctuary jurisdiction in 2021.

Mark Kelly proudly backs Team Mexico in World Cup after barely mentioning U.S. men's team

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:20:16 -0400

Which team is U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-Az) on?

Based on his social media feed, especially on Sunday, it appears Kelly might have a conflict of interest based on how patriotic he was feeling towards Team Mexico in its World Cup match against England.

"Lots of people out in Tucson to watch Mexico take on England. Tucson and La Rosa sure know how to do the World Cup!" Kelly boasted on Twitter where he proudly posted photos of himself wearing a Team Mexico jersey and smiling ear to ear.

ENGLAND STUNS MEXICO 3-2 IN INSTANT WORLD CUP CLASSIC, HANDS TEAM FIRST WORLD CUP LOSS AT ESTADIO AZTECA

You'll never guess who has barely mentioned the U.S. men's team on Twitter or Facebook.

Yep, Senator Mark Kelly.

Since you're on a roll, you'll also be able to guess who hasn't been to a Team USA watch party, or worn a Team USA jersey to a party, based on his social media feed. You're right again, Mark Kelly. If he has, Kelly sure hasn't bragged about it like he did Sunday when England went into enemy territory and sent the Mexicans on a Cancun vacation with a 3-2 victory.

PRESIDENT TRUMP SENDS WELL WISHES TO USMNT PRIOR TO WORLD CUP KICK-OFF AGAINST PARAGUAY

Kelly's only mention of Team USA came back on June 25 when he admitted on Twitter to not being a soccer fan. "I watch the NFL, the NBA, a little bit of Major League Baseball, hockey and the UFC, but soccer has never really been my thing," the former astronaut said.

Understandable.

Kelly then went on to say he planned to watch the U.S. men's team "hopefully" beat Turkey.

Hopefully? Talk about lukewarm confidence.

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Ten days later, Kelly shows up to a Team Mexico watch party exuding confidence with that massive smile on his face. Look at how proud and confident Mark was at that party taking selfies and rallying the Mexican fans as they prepared for this historic moment against England.

A U.S. senator who didn't care about soccer, and definitely didn't care about U.S. soccer, was that quick to jump on the Mexican bandwagon. Let that sink in.

ICE renews hunt for El Chapo's last two fugitive sons with massive reward

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:14:42 -0400

"Two down and two to go" blared the new wanted poster targeting the two remaining fugitive sons of infamous Mexican cartel kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman-Loera, who is serving life-plus-30-years in Colorado's federal supermax prison.

On Monday, ICE posted a new wanted poster for two members of "Los Chapitos" — Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar and Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar, two of El Chapo's sons with his first wife, Alejandrina Maria Salazar-Hernandez.

After El Chapo's final capture in 2016, control of the powerful Sinaloa Cartel shifted to Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada. Following Zambada's arrest during the Biden administration, leadership passed to Guzman's four sons.

MEXICAN SENATOR ACCUSES SHEINBAUM OF SHIELDING ‘NARCO-POLITICIANS’ AFTER US CARTEL INDICTMENT

Both the Trump administration in the U.S. and the Sheinbaum administration in Mexico have said they are focused on cracking down on cartel's new leadership.

"Two down and two to go with $10 million reward," the wanted poster read, with Xs over the faces of the already captured Joaquin Guzman Lopez and Ovidio Guzman Lopez.

The two captured Chapitos are reportedly cooperating with authorities and have not yet been sentenced, but Ivan and Jesus remain "armed and dangerous," according to ICE.

ICE NABS ACCUSED MS-13 KILLER HIDING IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA SUBURB

The two fugitives are charged with conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and operating a continuing criminal enterprise.

Two of Guzman's four sons have already been captured through Operation Take Back America, an initiative seeking the "total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations" in order to protect U.S. communities from violent crime.

U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois Andrew Boutros said in a recent statement that efforts to capture El Chapo’s sons are the latest steps "in our efforts to bring to justice drug lords and other dangerous criminals who poison the American public with illegal and harmful drugs and who otherwise engage in violence and corruption to carry out their and their enterprises’ wide-reaching criminal activities."

US MILITARY KILLS TWO ALLEGED NARCO-TERRORISTS IN LATEST EASTERN PACIFIC STRIKE ON DRUG-TRAFFICKING VESSEL

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In his plea agreement, Guzman Lopez admitted that he and his cartel associates committed violence against law enforcement officials, rival drug traffickers and members of their own organization to protect the Sinaloa Cartel's trafficking operations.

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Fox News Digital reached out to ICE and DHS for additional comment and information on the mission to capture the two at-large Chapitos.

FLASHBACK: As America turns 250, here's how the nation celebrated its biggest birthdays

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:12:31 -0400

America's milestone anniversaries have given generations of Americans an opportunity to reflect on the nation's history, values and progress.

From the Centennial in 1876 to the Bicentennial in 1976, celebrations have had parades, fireworks, historical reenactments, speeches and other patriotic traditions honoring the Declaration of Independence and the nation's founding in 1776.

As Americans celebrated the country's 250th anniversary on July 4, those traditions carried into the semiquincentennial with the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, President Donald Trump's address marking the occasion, military flyovers, performances by the U.S. Army Band and a Guinness World Record-breaking fireworks display with more than 850,000 fireworks.

Fox News Digital looks back at the nation's biggest birthday celebrations.

TRUMP SET TO DELIVER 'HISTORIC' SPEECH CELEBRATING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

1826: America's Jubilee (50th Anniversary)

The nation's first major milestone came in 1826, marking 50 years since the Declaration of Independence was adopted.

Communities across the country organized celebrations and leaders in Washington, D.C., invited former Presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, two of the last surviving signers of the Declaration of Independence, to attend, but both declined due to poor health, according to the National Archives Foundation. However, history took an extraordinary turn when Jefferson and Adams both died on July 4, just hours apart.

Many Americans saw Jefferson and Adams' deaths as a remarkable coincidence that added to the symbolism of Independence Day. A memorial service honoring Jefferson and Adams was held in Washington, D.C., while dinners, patriotic events and other commemorations helped establish the tradition of celebrating America's birthday.

1876: Centennial (100th Anniversary)

The nation celebrated its 100th anniversary in Philadelphia with the 1876 Centennial Exposition, the nation's first official World's Fair, which highlighted America's post-Civil War industrial growth and introduced millions of visitors to groundbreaking new technologies.

The six-month exposition attracted nearly 10 million visitors from around the world to see international arts, cultures and technologies on display, according to the National Archives.

The exposition featured Machinery Hall, where visitors saw new inventions, including Alexander Graham Bell's first telephone and Thomas Alva Edison's automatic telegraph. The fair also had a Women's Pavilion that highlighted the scientific and artistic achievements of women during the suffrage movement.

THE REVOLUTIONARY LANDMARKS WHERE WASHINGTON, ADAMS AND JEFFERSON CHANGED AMERICA

President Ulysses S. Grant approved sending the original Declaration of Independence to Philadelphia for display at the Centennial Exposition, according to the National Archives. Concerns over the document's deteriorating condition later prompted efforts to preserve the nation's founding document.

1926: Sesquicentennial (150th Anniversary)

Fifty years later, Philadelphia again hosted a World's Fair to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The 1926 Sesquicentennial International Exposition featured historical recreations and patriotic attractions celebrating the nation's founding. Organizers built an 80-foot replica of the Liberty Bell illuminated by 26,000 light bulbs that became one of the exposition's signature attractions, according to The Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia.

THE LESSON WE CAN LEARN FROM BICENTENNIAL HISTORY IS TO PARTY LIKE IT’S 1976

Although organizers projected 30 million visitors, fewer than 5 million paid admissions were recorded, and the exposition closed with enormous debts, according to Smithsonian magazine and The Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia.

1976: Bicentennial (200th Anniversary)

America's 200th birthday arrived during a period of recovery following the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal.

Philadelphia's bid to host a Bicentennial World's Fair was canceled in 1972, leaving the city's Bicentennial commemoration to move forward as national organizers encouraged celebrations across the country, according to the Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia.

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About 66,000 recognized events were held across the country, according to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum. Signature celebrations included Operation Sail, which brought more than 200 tall ships to New York Harbor, and the American Freedom Train, which traveled more than 25,000 miles across the country carrying historic artifacts, documents and works of art.

Democrats' civil war heads to Michigan where progressives face biggest test yet in high-stakes Senate showdown

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:09:24 -0400

The high-stakes fight between the left-wing and the center-left establishment for the future of the Democratic Party is moving to a much larger stage.

After victories by far-left and socialist candidates in dark blue congressional districts in New York City and Colorado the past two weeks drew national attention, the spotlight now shifts to battleground Michigan.

That's where moderate Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Mich., who is backed by Senate Minority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and the establishment; and former Wayne County Health Department Director Abdul El-Sayed, a left-wing candidate endorsed by progressive champions Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.,and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., are colliding in a crucial Senate showdown.

The winner of the Aug. 4, 2026, Democratic primary will face-off in the midterm elections in November against former Republican Rep. Mike Rogers, who is on a glide path to the GOP nomination. The winner will succeed retiring Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, a Democrat.

CRUCIAL SENATE BATTLE ROCKED AFTER MAJOR PLAYER DROPS OUT OF RACE

The seat is a top Republican target and is a must-hold for the Democrats as they aim to win back the Senate majority from the GOP, which currently controls the chamber with a slim, but manageable, 53-47 margin. The leading nonpartisan political handicappers at Cook Political Reporter rate the Senate race in Michigan as a toss-up.

Matt Bennett, one of the leaders at the Third Way, a leading center-left Democratic organization, told Fox News the primary in Michigan "is much more significant" than the intra-party ballot box showdowns the past two weeks in "very, very blue districts" in New York City and Denver.

The showdown in Michigan became a two-way race on Sunday, after progressive state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, once the third major Democrat in the primary, suspended her campaign.

"I may be suspending this campaign, but I am not leaving the fight," McMorrow pledged in a statement Sunday as she ended her Senate bid.

McMorrow, who has seen her national profile expand in recent years and was running as a progressive in an ideological space between El-Sayed and Stevens, suspended her campaign amid faltering poll numbers and fundraising that weren't keeping pace with her two main rivals.

DEMOCRACY ’26: STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE FOX NEWS ELECTION HUB

McMorrow pledged to fully support whichever Democrat wins the primary and will ultimately face-off with Rogers, who is running for the Senate for a second straight cycle after losing in 2024 to now-Sen. Elissa Slotkin by a razor-thin margin.

Following McMorrow's announcement, Stevens praised her fellow Democrat by calling her an "important voice" for policies that benefit Michigan families. Stevens then argued that she is the strongest Democratic candidate to win the primary and defeat Rogers in November.

"As we enter the final month of the primary election, I'm excited to continue to make my case to Michiganders why I'm the strongest Democrat to defeat Mike Rogers this November, lower costs, protect manufacturing jobs, and stand up to Trump's abuses of power," she added.

As she runs for the nomination, Stevens has been backed by millions in super PAC spending, including big bucks from Israel-aligned groups.

MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALISTS LOOK TO TAKE NEW YORK PLAYBOOK NATIONWIDE AFTER PRIMARY VICTORIES

In his statement, El-Sayed praised McMorrow for having the "courage" to challenge what he described as a rigged political system, accusing Democratic Party insiders of spending millions to influence the primary. While he did not name specific groups, the remarks appeared to reference corporate PACs and establishment party leaders such as Schumer.

He then invited McMorrow’s supporters to join his progressive movement to combat big money in politics and defeat the political establishment.

"Throughout this campaign, Senator McMorrow showed what it looks like to fight back against politics that rigs the system against too many of us. While we have policy disagreements, I never questioned whether Senator McMorrow would fight for a better America for my daughters and hers," he said.

"The same party insiders she had the courage to challenge have been bullying anyone who opposes their chosen candidate. After spending $30 million to drown Senator McMorrow and me out, they’re now spending even more to attack me. It’s everything we are standing up against."

"I welcome her supporters to our movement to stand up against money in politics, to put money back in pockets, and pass Medicare for All. We cannot allow the establishment to decide our nominee for us."

THESE MIDTERM RACES WILL DETERMINE WHETHER REPUBLICANS HOLD THEIR SENATE MAJORITY

El-Sayed, who, if elected, would make history as the nation's first Muslim senator, is an epidemiologist who unsuccessfully ran for governor as an insurgent candidate in 2018. He has made support for "Medicare-for-all" a major component of his campaign.

The far-left candidate has also called for abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and is a vocal critic of Israel amid its war with Hamas — even characterizing Israel's actions in Gaza as "genocide" against Palestinians.

And El-Sayed, who served as a top surrogate on Sanders' 2020 presidential campaign, has vowed not to accept PAC donations.

Schumer and the party establishment view Stevens as more electable than El-Sayed, who has sparked controversy with his past comments. They worry that El-Sayed as the party's nominee would jeopardize the Democrat-controlled Senate seat by pushing the party too far to the left in a state that President Donald Trump carried two years ago by just over one percentage point.

A victory by El-Sayed over Stevens in next month's primary would give the far left a major win on a statewide stage, and further boost their momentum in the battle for the Democratic Party's future.

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But Bennet warned against placing too much emphasis on the results in Michigan, as he pointed to other factors in the race.

"I don't think that even if El-Sayed wins, that means the national party is moving dramatically to the left, as the left will insist if that happens," he told Fox News Digital. "Some of this is idiosyncratic. There's a huge Arab American population in Michigan. The Israel issue is more resonant there than it is in other places. And candidates matter."

Fox News' Hannah Brennan contributed to this story.

Trump pushed NATO to pay up. Now allies must turn pledges into power

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:07:52 -0400

Declarations are not deterrence. Commitments are not capabilities.

At The Hague last year, NATO Allies made a historic pledge: five percent of GDP annually on core defense and security-related capabilities. It was a declaration that the Free World will rise to the challenges of this century — and a testament to the historic leadership of President Trump. His unwavering determination has secured a surge in Allied defense investment not seen since the founding of NATO.

But as we approach the NATO Summit in Ankara, the Alliance faces its defining test: turning promises into realities on the ground.

TRUMP CALLS OUT NATO AHEAD OF SUMMIT, CALLING IT 'RIDICULOUS' FOR US TO PERSIST ON 'ONE SIDED PATH'

The Burden-Sharing Reckoning

Since 2017, European Allies and Canada have increased defense investment by more than $1.2 trillion. That is real money, and it reflects a real shift in political will. Since the Hague Summit alone, Allies have committed nearly $139 billion — roughly half of it spent on American equipment that the United States alone can produce at scale. Allies currently hold over $60 billion in orders with American defense companies, and that number keeps growing. We build the best equipment in the world, and our friends know it.

Yet the picture remains uneven. Some Allies are shouldering more of the burden than others, and the United States will continue to press every member of this Alliance to honor its commitments. In an era of complex new threats — drone swarms, hybrid attacks, hypersonic missiles — a weak link anywhere degrades collective security everywhere.

PENTAGON SLASHES NATO COMBAT COMMITMENTS AS TRUMP PUSHES EUROPE TO DEFEND ITSELF

The goal, however, is not simply to spend more. It is to shift the conventional defense of Europe to Europeans, with the United States providing critical but more focused support — including our nuclear umbrella. That means an Alliance that is stronger, more lethal, and less dependent on the United States. It means air and missile defense networks built to counter the drone and missile threats that have reshaped the modern battlefield in Ukraine. It means tougher training and more demanding exercises for our combined forces. And it means a NATO that can fight and win with Europeans in the lead.

The Defense Industrial Imperative

The most consequential development in the Alliance today is not happening around conference tables. It is happening on factory floors.

UKRAINE’S BATTLEFIELD IS TRANSFORMING THE FUTURE OF NATO

We must build more military equipment, build it faster, and out-innovate our adversaries. That requires expanded industrial capacity on both sides of the Atlantic: more partnerships between American defense companies and European industry to develop, produce, and sustain together. It requires more flexible contracting, including the long-term contracts Congress has now authorized, to give American companies the certainty they need to invest in expanded production; and new pathways for our most innovative small businesses to bring best-in-class technology to the Alliance.

This is the virtuous cycle we need. Allied demand drives American production. American production drives Allied capability. Allied capability drives deterrence. And deterrence keeps the peace.

The Summit Ahead

Ankara must be a summit of action. The Hague gave us the mandate; Ankara must give us the momentum — concrete milestones, measurable capability targets, and mechanisms that ensure Allies deliver. President Reagan said peace through strength is not a slogan but a fact of life. We must, like President Trump, see the world as it is, not as we wish it to be. A dangerous world demands a strong America and strong Allies. The United States has been the backbone of NATO, and we will remain a proud, stalwart Ally. But a stronger Europe, armed with real capabilities, is the prerequisite for an Alliance that can defend every inch of NATO territory — as equal Allies, not dependents.

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Our adversaries must look at our capabilities and conclude that the cost of aggression is too high.

That is the NATO we are building. The direction is clear. The commitment is real. Now is the time to act.

Jim Acosta claims Donald Trump vanity projects look like ‘end days of Saddam Hussein’

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:14 -0400

Former CNN anchor Jim Acosta compared President Donald Trump’s Washington, D.C., projects to the "end days of Saddam Hussein" on Sunday while questioning Trump’s mental and physical fitness during an appearance after the president’s Fourth of July celebration on the National Mall.

Acosta made the remark on left-wing host Jack Cocchiarella’s podcast after Cocchiarella asked what he would do with Trump's "monuments and vanity projects" after Trump leaves office.

"That’s what concerns me greatly, and this is like end days of Saddam Hussein that we’re seeing right now with the way he’s trying to build things and take over projects down in Washington, D.C.," Acosta said.

TRUMP ANNOUNCES MAJOR NEW LANDMARK PROJECT IN DC'S WEST POTOMAC PARK HONORING AMERICA'S GREATEST HEROES

Acosta also shared that he was more concerned about Trump’s mental state than his physical condition.

"I have more pause about his mental health than his physical health," Acosta said.

The interview came after Trump’s America 250 celebration on the National Mall, which the White House described as marking "250 years of American Independence."

The former CNN White House correspondent argued Trump's building projects showed a desire to shape how he will be remembered.

"He’s doing these things because he knows deep down in his bones that he is going to be ranked probably the lowest among all presidents in American history," Acosta said.

TRUMP SET TO DELIVER 'HISTORIC' SPEECH CELEBRATING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

Acosta said Trump's projects should be undone after his presidency.

"Everything should be restored to the way things were before he started doing these things," Acosta said.

Cocchiarella also asked Acosta what he believed was "going on with the man's health," saying Trump's "strength" appeared diluted.

"I think that he’s obviously not the same person that I covered during the first term," Acosta said.

TRUMP EYES NEW WHITE HOUSE LAWN PROJECT THAT COULD RESHAPE PRESIDENTIAL TRAVEL

"I don’t remember him falling asleep in the Cabinet meetings and in the Oval Office as people are standing over his shoulder talking. I mean, that’s totally nuts."

White House spokesman Davis Ingle pushed back on Acosta’s comments in a statement to Fox News Digital, accusing Democrats and the media of covering up former President Joe Biden’s decline, while praising Trump’s stamina and accessibility.

"President Trump’s sharpness, unmatched energy, and historic accessibility stand in stark contrast to what we saw during the last administration when Democrats and the legacy media intentionally covered up Joe Biden’s serious mental and physical decline from the American people," Ingle said. "President Trump is the sharpest and most accessible president in American history who is working nonstop to solve problems and deliver on his promises."

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Acosta criticized mainstream outlets for not covering Trump's health more aggressively.

"The fact that it’s not really talked about in the mainstream press all that much is an embarrassment," Acosta said.

"I think that my friends in corporate media, they need to get a little bit more courage," Acosta said. "We can report on the things that are apparent to our own eyes. Like that’s OK to do."

He pointed to both Trump's appearance and his public remarks as reasons for concern.

"I think, you know, the bruises, the cankles, I mean, there’s lots of physical signs," Acosta said. "I think that the incoherence, though to me, is the overriding theme here."

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Acosta compared Trump’s public comments to the scrutiny Biden faced before dropping his 2024 re-election bid.

"Joe Biden’s entire political career ended off of one of those comments," Acosta said. "And Donald Trump does it. It’s like a regular occurrence over at the White House.

"I would like to know who it is that’s in the room with him on a regular basis when he’s making a lot of these decisions, in particular national security decisions," he added.

Firefighters, police pull young woman from sewage-filled ravine after days trapped in 104-degree heat

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:57:00 -0400

A dramatic rescue operation in Texas saved a young woman's life after she had been trapped for days in a steep ravine.

At about 5:25 p.m. local time on June 28, a young man heard faint cries for help coming from a wooded area behind a nearby high school.

While investigating the sounds, he found a young woman who had been trapped in a ravine for days, stuck in deep mud and sewage.

The Dallas Police Department and Dallas Fire-Rescue immediately launched a joint operation, with first responders facing 104-degree heat and navigating a quarter-mile of treacherous terrain to reach the woman.

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Rescuers were able to pull the woman out of the muck and rushed her to a local hospital, where she was treated for severe dehydration, prolonged sun exposure and other injuries.

It is unclear how the woman got stuck.

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In a statement Monday, the Dallas Police Department praised the heroic joint effort.

"The well-being of the Dallas community is not something that’s handled by a single agency," the Dallas Police Department wrote in an X post. "It takes a collaborative effort from multiple teams and organizations working side-by-side to ensure every person’s safety."

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The department extended its sincere thanks to the officers, firefighters and paramedics whose "swift action and joint effort saved a young woman who was in desperate need of help."

West Virginia man pleads guilty to making violent threats against Trump, ICE

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:29:05 -0400

A man admitted to issuing threats against President Donald Trump and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, according to an announcement issued by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of West Virginia.

An indictment earlier this year had alleged that Cody Lee Smith threatened to rape and kill President Trump, and threatened to murder Trump supporters and ICE agents.

He is facing "up to 5 years for the presidential threat charge and faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the threats against ICE," the Thursday news release announced.

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The indictment detailed the graphic threats the man allegedly made, including one in which he apparently referred to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The document states that Smith sent a direct message to Donald Trump Jr. on Instagram that declared, "I’m going to rape your worthless father while Benjamin netanyacuck sits in the oval CUCK throne and watches with his jugular cut while the life leaves his pathetic eyes and then after I’m done your getting raped."

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The indictment reports that Smith asserted in an Instagram post, "Donald j Trump likes little boys and little girls and is an Israeli asset he deserves to be raped and murdered @REALDONALDTRUMP @donaldjtrumpjr I will kill you b[----] a[--] dad."

It also alleges that the man posted, "If I see a single trump supporter I don’t care the relation[,] I don’t care their age[,] I don’t care if they are mentally handicap[,] I’m murdering them in front of their entire family[,] same goes to the first war supporter or service member who’s willing to bootlick."

He called the ICE tip line and "threatened to kill ICE agents in Clarksburg, West Virginia, the tip line operator, and the operator’s family," the indictment alleged.

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The document also alleged that Smith had declared in a post, "Donald Trump just announced the godd[---] hunger games[.] IMPEACH THIS MOTHERF[-----] WITH A .308." — the indictment noted that the post featured a Leathermouth song titled, "I Am Going to Kill the President of the United States of America."

Senate hopeful says Texas home to the 'best drag queens in the nation' in resurfaced comments

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:53:18 -0400

Senate hopeful James Talarico is on the defensive after remarks resurfaced in which he lavished praise on Texas drag queens as "some of the best" in the country.

Talarico, the Democrats' nominee in Texas’ hotly contested Senate race, made the comment in May 2023 while criticizing a bill in the state legislature banning "sexually oriented performances" on public property and in the presence of minors — a measure that would have likely restricted some drag shows.

He voted "present" on the legislation at the urging of the Texas House LGBTQ Caucus after language explicitly referencing drag performers was stripped from an earlier version, arguing the revised bill would better protect their performances, in a statement to The Texas Newsroom.

"I think Texas is obviously the best state in the nation and I think we produce some of the best drag queens in the nation," Talarico told the outlet. "And I didn’t want any legislation to target them or hurt that industry."

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Talarico, a 37-year-old state legislator and seminarian, has repeatedly sparked controversy over past remarks on Christianity and gender issues in which he argued, "God is nonbinary," claimed there are six biological sexes and gushed over transgender children.

The former middle school teacher also raised eyebrows in a resurfaced clip from 2022 in which he argued that scaling back meat consumption is "existential" to combating climate change and praised a left-wing activist group that advocated for dismantling the state’s massive oil and gas industry.

Republican Senate nominee Ken Paxton’s campaign hammered Talarico’s drag queen praise in a statement to Fox News Digital.

"This is just one more addition to the long list of out-of-touch, extreme views James Talarico holds that are out of step with the people of Texas," Paxton spokeswoman Madison Cercy said.

Talarico's remarks also prompted sharp criticism from the Republican National Committee (RNC), which is working aggressively to keep the open seat currently held by retiring Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, in Republican hands.

"He needs to stay away from kids and stop forcing his creepy trans-for-all agenda on Texas," RNC spokesman Zach Kraft told Fox News Digital.

Fox News Digital reached out to Talarico’s campaign for comment.

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Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, signed the legislation, known as Senate Bill 12, in June 2023, but its enforcement has been subject to years-long legal challenges brought by LGBTQ organizations over alleged violations of First Amendment rights. Under the law, businesses can face up to a $10,000 fine for hosting a prohibited performance and drag performers could also be subject to criminal penalties.

In February, a federal appeals court allowed the state law regulating drag shows to go into effect, while a legal fight over its constitutionality continues.

"I will always work to shield our children from exposure to erotic and inappropriate sexually-oriented performances," Paxton wrote in a November 2025 press release. "It is an honor to have defended this law, ensuring that our state remains safe for families and children, and I look forward to continuing to vigorously defend it on remand before the district court."

Republicans’ criticism comes as Talarico is locked in a dead heat with Paxton just months ahead of the November midterm elections, according to recent polling.

A New York Times/Siena College survey released last week found that both candidates are tied, with 47% of the vote among likely voters in Texas.

According to the poll, approximately half of the respondents said Paxton, a Trump ally aligned with the MAGA movement, is too extreme, while just 43% viewed Talarico that way.

Additionally, less than four in 10 respondents believe Paxton has good character or the right kind of morals, while 56% and 51% of voters, respectively, said Talarico does, the survey found.

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However, the poll indicated that Talarico could struggle to overcome Democrats’ toxic brand in the Lone Star state, with 53% of respondents viewing the party as too far to the left.

Jimmy Kimmel joins Obama-produced HBO show to mock Trump

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:32:49 -0400

ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel made a cameo appearance on Larry David’s Obama-produced HBO program on July 3 to attack President Donald Trump.

Longtime Trump critic Rob Reiner, who was killed late last year, made a posthumous appearance as George Washington, who announced he will not seek a third term in office and proposed Congress pursue a constitutional amendment prohibiting presidential power on "Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness: An Almost History of America." The new HBO satire series, which touts former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama as executive producers, lampooned Trump without saying his name.

David’s character, dressed in colonial attire, asked, "Well, what if there’s some a------ in office, some narcissistic p---- who doesn’t follow the Constitution?"

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Reiner’s Washington stressed the importance of a peaceful transfer of power before David’s character interjects, warning that the president could attack the free press to silence criticism. Then another man in the crowd, played by fellow longtime Trump antagonist Kimmel, came into focus.

"Come on, that could never happen," Kimmel’s character shouted.

David’s character snarked, "That’s what you think."

"Are you suggesting that the president would taketh the time to challenge anyone who dare make fun of him, as if he were a big baby? I don’t see it," Kimmel’s character said.

Kimmel, who earlier this year joked that first lady Melania Trump had the glow of an "expectant widow," has ramped up his liberal political commentary in recent years.

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The "widow" joke went viral just days later when an armed assailant stormed a security checkpoint at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner in April. Kimmel, who insisted it was a joke about Trump’s age and not an assassination jab, mocks Trump on a nightly basis.

Trump has repeatedly urged ABC to fire Kimmel, to no avail.

"When is ABC Fake News Network firing seriously unfunny Jimmy Kimmel, who incompetently presides over one of the Lowest Rated shows on Television? People are angry. It better be soon!!!" Trump wrote in April.

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Last year, Kimmel was briefly suspended by Disney after controversial remarks about the assassination of Charlie Kirk sparked outrage, and ABC said the show would be preempted indefinitely. He returned to the air days later and insisted he never intended to make light of Kirk’s death.

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Fox News Digital's Tracy Wright contributed to this report.

'Mayhem' erupts in wealthy coastal enclave as hundreds arrested in massive takeover during July Fourth weekend

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:26:00 -0400

July Fourth chaos erupted over the weekend on the West Coast. More than 400 teens and young people were arrested during a massive teen takeover event in Newport Beach, California.

Police say the mob descended upon the Balboa Peninsula neighborhood on July 4, with videos shared on social media depicting the madness with crowds appearing to set off fireworks in the middle of roadways, block busy streets and cause damage to local businesses.

From Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, police made 402 arrests, with the local fire department responding to 102 emergencies, including 10 fires; it is unclear if the fires and emergencies were related to the illegal takeover event.

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In a post to social media, the City of Newport Beach said in part:

"Social media posts drew a large influx of juveniles and young adults to the Newport Pier area within a matter of minutes. As the crowd quickly grew into the thousands, dangerous and unlawful behavior escalated, blocking roadways, preventing emergency access and putting families, visitors and first responders at risk."

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More videos shared online appear to show possible looting and damage at a Pavilions grocery store in the area. Smashed produce and trash were seen strewn around the parking lot over the weekend.

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The president of the Newport Beach Police Association, Joe DeJulio, posted a statement to social media that said, "a large group of agitators invaded Newport Beach spurred by an alleged 'TikTok Takeover.' These persons came to our city with the intent on causing harm, injury, and destruction, bringing harassment, disturbances, and mayhem."

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A spokesperson for TikTok confirmed to Fox News Digital any content posted on the platform that promotes theft, property damage, criminal activity, or dangerous behaviors that could cause serious harm, violates the app's Community Guidelines.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Albertson's, the company that owns the Pavilions grocery store, for comment.

America owes Black women 'everything,' Rep Jasmine Crockett rants over July 4 weekend

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:22:18 -0400

Controversial and outspoken outgoing Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, is facing online backlash after comments she made over the Independence Day weekend revealing what she thinks the United States owes Black women.

"When it comes to answering the question of what America owes Black women, the answer is everything," the Texas congresswoman said during an interview at the Essence Festival of Black Culture in New Orleans over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

"When we think about the sacrifices that Black women have made, from the moment we were stolen from our homelands and transported into this country, to the fact that Black women continue to stand as the backbone — specifically of the Democratic Party — we know that Black women are always the ones doing the labor, but we are also the ones that are the first targets of any harm," Crockett continued.

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The Essence Festival of Black Culture, which is linked to Essence magazine, says it brings together iconic Black voices to celebrate culture, community and commerce.

Rapper Cardi B performed at the Big Easy event over the weekend, and former first lady Michelle Obama gave a speech.

CRITICS ROAST JASMINE CROCKETT AFTER SHE CALLS HERSELF 'ONE OF THE 535 MOST POWERFUL PEOPLE' IN US

Crockett said at the event, which coincided with the celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence: "So, this Fourth of July, I say celebrate a Black woman that you know, because whether it's an invention that she made, or whether it's the very democracy that still hangs by a thread right now, there is Black woman to thank for her contributions."

The clip quickly made the rounds on social media, eliciting some incredulous responses.

"I thought the point of Independence Day was to celebrate America as a country not individuals no matter what race they are," said one social media user.

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"Democracy is not hanging by a thread. That’s insane," said another.

A third claimed: "Your skin color doesn't make you special."

"Thank God in 6 months she'll be gone," one remarked, referring to her impending departure from her position in Congress.

Instead of seeking re-election to the House, Crockett ran for the U.S. Senate seat in Texas. She lost the primary to state Rep. James Talarico, who marketed himself as a more moderate candidate to take on Republicans in the Lone Star State.

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The two-term congresswoman's decision not to run for re-election in her district came after its geographical boundaries were redrawn to be more red-leaning.

Crockett's office did not return Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Newsom-backed commission transfers popular coastline to indigenous tribes

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:19:03 -0400

A popular stretch of California’s Mendocino County coastline is being handed over to an Indigenous peoples group after a Gov. Gavin Newsom-backed state commission approved the transfer of 136 acres of beach and coastal bluffs.

The property, which includes Blues Beach just south of Westport, will be transferred from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to Kai Poma, a nonprofit founded by representatives of the Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians, Round Valley Indian Tribes and Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians.

Caltrans gave final regulatory approval to the deal on June 26.

"For the first time in California’s history, land managed by Caltrans and owned by the state was transferred to Kai Poma, a nonprofit established by three local Native American tribes with ancestral ties to the region," Caltrans District 1 announced in a statement last week. "Once transferred, Kai Poma will own and maintain the 136-acre site and protect sensitive natural resources and Native American cultural resources."

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The state acquired the windswept shoreline and rocky bluffs in the 1960s as part of plans tied to Highway 1 expansion and the creation of a scenic overlook for motorists, according to the California Coastal Commission.

In recent years, the beach has drawn large summer and holiday crowds, with public access largely unregulated. State planning documents say visitors have camped and partied on the beach, driven through sensitive areas, damaged cultural resources and left trash behind.

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Tribal leaders have described the land as culturally and spiritually significant. The coastal waters are used for traditional gathering, including seaweed and abalone, and the shore has hosted youth cultural camps.

Kai Poma is expected to conduct cultural, archaeological and environmental surveys before developing a long-term resource management plan for the land. The nonprofit has also worked with the Coastal Commission on a public access plan that will keep the property open to visitors from sunrise to sunset.

The transfer required years of work and a change in state law. Until 2021, Caltrans did not have authority to transfer state-owned property to tribal governments. That changed when Newsom signed legislation sponsored by state Sen. Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, allowing such conveyances.

"With 136 acres now officially transferred into tribal stewardship, one of the most spectacular stretches of the Mendocino Coast will be forever protected," McGuire said in a statement. "This agreement, the first of its kind in California, gives these three dynamic Native American tribes the rightful opportunity to reclaim sacred lands and cultural traditions on this special piece of earth. And it’s about damn time."

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The law bars commercial activity on the property and requires continued public access.

Supporters say the transfer will protect one of the region’s most scenic stretches of coast while returning sacred land to the descendants of the people who historically stewarded it.

"This is beyond huge," Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians Chair J. Carlos Rivera told the Los Angeles Times. "It’s enormous from our tribal perspective that we are basically obtaining the land that our people once lived on before colonization."

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With the commission’s approval complete, Caltrans staff are expected to record the deed transferring the property from the state to Kai Poma.

Fox News Digital reached out Newsom, the coastal commission, Round Valley Indian Tribes and Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians for comment.

Spencer Pratt lights social media on fire with viral takedown of ‘vile, commie mayor’ Mamdani

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:18:17 -0400

Spencer Pratt sparked widespread online reaction over Independence Day weekend after posting a sharp rebuke of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for using the July 4 holiday to criticize America's history.

Pratt, a former reality TV star who drew attention with his surprise Los Angeles mayoral run, continued his political commentary by targeting Mamdani, who marked the nation's 250th Independence Day by delivering an immigration-themed address from George Washington's desk. Flanked by eight recently naturalized U.S. citizens, Mamdani criticized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, Elon Musk and what he described as the "arena of supremacy" in the United States.

"As we mark 250 years, what do we see?" Mamdani asked. "We see a city of contradictions within a nation of contradictions. We see the wealthiest country in the history of the world — one where children go to sleep hungry while the world’s first trillionaire hungers for more. We see monopolies that dominate every industry and oligarchs who buy elections. We see masked agents terrorizing our streets, eating food cooked by our undocumented neighbors before spiriting them away in unmarked vans. We see a nation whose immense wealth has been built by those with calloused, dirt-streaked hands — those who toil on factory floors and chisel into stone — and we see a nation that has allowed so much of that wealth to be held instead in the soft hands of a precious few."

In a viral response video, Pratt bashed Mamdani, saying, "Notice how the communists always attack your history."

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Wearing a T-shirt reading "the anti-socialists social club" and sitting behind a foldout table beside an RV at the site where his home burned down in the Los Angeles Palisades fire last year, Pratt remarked, "We all had to sit and watch that vile, commie mayor sit on the wrong side of our founding father’s desk to try to lecture us about our own history."

"The communists must attack your history," he continued. "Why? Because history is what anchors you, it’s what makes us attached to something."

He referred to communism as "an evil, anti-human religion," seeking to "destroy what makes us human."

"The communist destroys your history so he can take your home and rebuild it in his image. That’s why it is your patriotic duty to celebrate today unashamed. It’s ok to love America, not only is it ok to love America, it’s necessary to love America. We are the only bulwark against tyranny on this earth," said Pratt.

Amid the burned ruins of his Los Angeles home, Pratt urged Americans to "think of your country like a home. What makes your home special?… It’s the memories you have there."

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"Erasing history is how you demoralize people, how you unmoor them and detach them from their society so you can take it from them and rewrite it in your image," he said.

Pratt granted that America’s history is not perfect, saying, "our history is messy, our history is violent" but "bad times are part of what makes us stronger, a part of what makes us who we are."

Turning his fire back to Mamdani, Pratt said, "he has no place to rewrite our history and lecture us about what our country stands for."

"As a country, we are batting 1,000. Not only is it a miracle that this radical experiment in self-governance even survived past 1776, but we are the champions of the world, be proud of that, be proud of your history," he said.

During his address, Mamdani, a naturalized U.S. citizen who was born in Uganda, said that every American has "the power to determine what America means."

"The powerful have always known their answer. America, in their view, is an arena of supremacy where only a select few are allowed freedom," Mamdani said. "Where not all are created equal. America, if you ask them, becomes less the more people it welcomes. America, they will tell you, belongs only to those with the right accent or the right shade of skin. The rest of us, they insist, should be grateful for merely being allowed to visit. How small they are, how weak, how unoriginal. At every moment in our past, those who led through exclusion and isolation have tried to win power and enrich themselves by turning us against one another."

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He also remarked, "We are told that America is exceptional because we are richer, stronger, more powerful than everyone else. The truth, my friends, is that America is exceptional because here nothing is fixed into place."

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"The frontier may be closed, we may have walked on the moon, but the work of fulfilling the values first enshrined in the Declaration of Independence — that work endures, my friends, and it belongs to us all. It belongs too to our newest Americans, those standing here with me today."

Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani's office for comment and had not received a response by publication.