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Socialist Surge: Far-left Democrats test national playbook after blue-city primary shocks

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:53 -0400

The far left is taking its political playbook nationwide, moving from high-profile primary wins in New York City and Colorado to a string of upcoming Democratic contests in Missouri, Michigan, Wisconsin and Florida.

After far-left and socialist-aligned candidates scored ballot-box victories over establishment-backed contenders in congressional primaries in New York City and Colorado the past two weeks, the left is taking aim at the Midwest.

Hours after Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) backed challenger and first-time candidate Melat Kiros toppled 15-term Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette in Tuesday's primary in Denver's deep blue 1st Congressional District, former Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri pledged on social media, "On August 4th, St. Louis will do the same."

Kiros’ victory, coupled with wins a week earlier by three far-left congressional candidates heavily supported by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, is emboldening progressives as they try to turn isolated blue-city upsets into a national pressure campaign against the Democratic Party.

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"Only socialism can solve decades of capitalist mismanagement in the US. Our newly elected leaders will fight for the working class — not for crumbs," the DSA proclaimed in a social media post on Wednesday.

In Missouri, the DSA-backed Bush is running to win back her seat in the state's St. Louis-anchored 1st Congressional District.

Bush, a nurse, pastor and Black Lives Matter activist, first ran against Democratic Rep. Lacy Clay in 2018 before ousting him in the 2020 Democratic primary. But two years ago, she lost renomination to St. Louis County prosecuting attorney Wesley Bell, who was backed by millions in outside money, including pro-Israel groups opposed to Bush's position on the war in Gaza.

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Fast forward to today, and Bush and Clay are locked in an expensive and combative rematch.

The far left is also training its firepower on the crucial Great Lakes battleground of Michigan, which holds its primary on the same day as Missouri.

Abdul El-Sayed, a former Wayne County health director who unsuccessfully ran for governor eight years ago as an insurgent, is one of three major candidates trying to succeed retiring Democratic Sen. Gary Peters, D-Fla.

Backed last year by far left champion Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, El-Sayed on Thursday was endorsed by progressive rockstar Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York.

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"AOC has changed the trajectory of American politics and inspired a generation to believe that government really can work for working people," El-Sayed wrote on social media. "Together, we’re proving that even in the face of unprecedented outside spending, a movement powered by the people can win."

One week later, on Aug. 11, Wisconsin holds primaries.

Wisconsin state Rep. Francesca Hong is on the rise among a crowded field of candidates in the race to succeed retiring Democratic Gov. Tony Evers.

"It’s a great day to be a democratic socialist," the DSA-aligned Hong posted on X last week after the progressive victories in New York City, in which two Democratic congressional incumbents lost renomination. "Wisconsin is next!"

A week later, the spotlight will shine on Florida, where DSA-backed Oliver Larkin is challenging two-term Democratic Rep. Jared Moskowitz, D-Fla., in the state's 25 Congressional District, which includes portions of Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.

"Tonight, @MelatKirosCO, tomorrow @OliverALarkin. The movement moves from New York to Colorado to FLORIDA!," the DSA wrote on X hours after Kiros' victory.

Kiros, who lost her job as a lawyer in New York after writing an essay critical of Israel, was also backed by Justice Democrats, the nearly decade-old political group known for heavily supporting "Squad" members Ocasio-Cortez, and Reps. Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley and Rashida Tlaib as they toppled entrenched incumbents in their initial elections to Congress.

Hasan Piker, the controversial far-left streamer who attended Kiros’ primary night event in Denver, told Fox News, "I think progressive politics, left populism, a politics that centers the needs of the working class, can work in every district, in every state. That's why I kept saying over and over again, it's coming to a city near you."

Progressives also scored an impressive victory in the neighboring 8th Congressional District, a crucial swing seat which stretches along the I-25 corridor north of Denver.

State Rep. Manny Rutinel tallied a convincing double-digit victory over former state Rep. Shannon Bird, a more moderate candidate. Rutinel will now take on Republican Rep. Gabe Evans, who flipped the seat in the 2024 cycle.

The race is considered one of two or three dozen that will determine if the GOP holds onto its razor-thin House majority in the midterms.

Longtime Democratic strategist Joe Caiazzo, a veteran of progressive champion Sen. Bernie Sanders' 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns, told Fox News Digital that "it is undeniable that progressives have built a coalition and have a message that can serve to buoy a candidate when they are an acceptable alternative to the status quo."

While plenty of mainstream Democrats have racked up primary victories in recent weeks, it is the far left's wins that are grabbing the media spotlight.

And that is giving Republicans who are facing a rough political climate as they work to hold their slim House and Senate majorities, more ammunition as they portray all Democrats as radicals.

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President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of a "communist" threat.

Vice President JD Vance argued Tuesday on Fox News’ "The Ingraham Angle" that Democrats have "a view that the United States is an evil country that must be dismantled from the ground and then built back up. That's communism at its core, and you see more and more momentum in that direction from the Democrat Party."

Mamdani's advice for seniors gets brutally mocked after urging New Yorkers to limit AC use

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:45 -0400

Shortly after urging city residents to scale back their air conditioning use to reduce strain on the power grid, socialist New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani warned older residents to be mindful of prolonged summer heat.

"If you have an older loved one, friend or neighbor, check in with them today. Make sure they’re staying hydrated, spending time in the air-conditioned spaces whenever possible and know where to find the nearest cooling center," Mamdani wrote in a post to X.

It didn’t take long for the reactions online to point out the clashing sets of instructions.

"You just told old people to keep their air at 78. Are you on drugs?" Gina Milan, a conservative media personality, wrote in a post to social media.

"Mamdani: Older adults are at greater risk for heat-related illness, especially during prolonged periods of extreme heat. Also Mamdani: set you AC to 78 degrees," another observer wrote.

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"How does he expect these older adults to stay cool if he wants them to keep their thermostat at 78?" another user wrote.

Social media users continue to monitor Mamdani's online directives and his policies as the self-proclaimed socialist navigates the realities of implementing many of his campaign promises.

In the lead-up to his mayoral victory in November, Mamdani claimed that quality of life could not be separated from reactions to climate change.

"Climate and quality of life are not two separate concerns. They are, in fact, one and the same," Mamdani said in an interview with the Nation last year, proposing new school infrastructure that would serve as shelters during extreme heat waves.

However, Mamdani noted earlier this week that the city’s existing infrastructure was struggling with capacity, asking residents to cap their AC units at 78 degrees.

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"New York: it's hot out there, and the power grid is working overtime to keep us cool," Mamdani posted on X.

The request is a part of a series of other measures the city is deploying to counter the heat, including Cooling Outreach On-Location (COOL) vans, extending poor hours and an additional eight cooling centers through sites such as libraries.

"Set your AC to 78 degrees, turn off lights/electronics you're not using, and unplug what you can. Our City is doing its part too: maintaining the 78 degrees rule in our buildings, dimming/turning off our lights during peak electricity demand, asking private partners to do the same, and powering down non-essential equipment. A stable grid means the AC stays on, and lives are saved. Let's ease demand — and get through the heat — together."

Conservatives expressed skepticism of the plan.

"Show us your thermostat, commie," reality TV star and former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt posted on X.

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Notably, one observer on X pointed out that Republican New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani had issued similar instructions in 1999, citing an archived press release.

According to the New York Mayoral Office, the city is predicting a heat wave that could reach up to 112, calling it "historic," in a press release on Wednesday.

We should tell real American adventure stories to teach our boys about heroes

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:40 -0400

My 13-year-old son’s "social studies" textbooks appear to be written by committees whose chief concern is to dull boys’ minds in order to make them open to indoctrination by politically correct dictum.

Indeed, the very term "social studies" was promulgated by a Progressive Era committee.

"The social studies are understood to be those whose subject matter relate to the organization and development of human society, and to man as a member of social groups," decided the National Education Association’s (NEA) Committee on Social Studies in 1916. They thought it would be better to present history in the context of social narratives to teach politically useful interpretations.

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The bad idea soon spread across the land.

And so boys, now for more than a century, have not been told the real story about how George Washington had two horses shot out from under him in the Battle of the Monongahela in 1755, yet still attempted to get the stubborn British general to change tactics as they were being slaughtered, and when this failed, how a then 23-year-old Washington saved what was left of the British army.

Today’s textbooks don’t set the scene to vividly show how Washington rallied a frozen army to cross the Delaware River to take Trenton on Christmas in 1776. They certainly don’t put the boys in the room to show an older Washington wiping his glasses as he made his former officers feel shame for attempting to make him a dictator or king in the Newburgh Conspiracy in 1783.

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No, all of those stories have, at best, become dead dates on a page.

The stories of adventure and human achievement are gone. In their place are narratives about social ills and the conflicts between races, men and women, the rich and the poor.

All of those are important themes, but instead of honestly putting today’s students in the footsteps of human action, our boys are drowned in passively written prose, or worse, in preachy diatribes, as if to purposely uninspire them — or perhaps to safely, as committees will, navigate around the real things that teach.

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We now wonder why our boys are struggling in school. When we do, we talk about how growing boys need to get up from those rows of desks, move around, play sports and experiment. Again, that is all true, but no one is talking about how real tales of adventure have been turned into thin politically correct gruel.

Instead of just telling boys how many patents Thomas Edison had or simply reporting that he gave us a long-lasting incandescent lightbulb, how about telling them how he was tossed out of school for being "addled" when he was a boy? How about teachers explaining about how one of Edison’s experiments set fire to a train when he was 12 years old — a period in which he was busy printing his own newspaper on that train?

As they do, they could explain that just after he was thrown off that train, the stationmaster at Mount Clemens — who owed Edison for saving his son’s life — taught Edison how to be a telegraph operator and so helped to set the course of his life and thereby changed the world. An educator could then set the scene of Edison, much later, as he ran his "Invention Factory," a place that must have inspired the Tony Stark (Iron Man) character.

If a teacher started telling real stories of adventure like these, I guarantee the boys in class would sit still a lot longer and listen a lot more attentively. The real stories stay with us. Indeed, within them are the themes that school administrators, via social-studies classes, want to emphasize; only, instead of dumbed-down narratives designed to indoctrinate, they’d be teaching well-rounded, honest history.

Consider Davy Crockett. We could toss out his years and note that he was caught between the cultural friction then occurring between people of European descent moving west and members of Native American tribes. Or we could talk about his heroic stand against the Indian Removal Act and how, after he lost his seat in Congress the second time because of this moral stand, he said (this is the popular paraphrase of the quote), "You may all go to hell, and I will go to Texas." Then, talk about his last stand at the Alamo and even show a picture of the knife he died fighting with — it is now on display in the San Jacinto Museum in Harris County, Texas.

Boys would go home still talking about that!

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Instead of doing any of that, the committees who write our kids’ textbooks flipped the script in the Progressive Era so they could reduce the great men of history into useful caricatures as they shoved history into politically correct filters.

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Parents need to push back, as the real stories are what excite and teach boys. Real stories about the Founders and other great leaders stay with us. Anyone who has heard about Teddy Roosevelt’s capture of the three outlaws in Dakota Territory in 1886 can picture how he marched them at gunpoint for 36 hours straight and that, after getting them to the town of Dickinson, everyone, including the bad guys, was surprised he had not simply hung them on the spot.

America has some of the coolest heroes, but we don’t do a good job these days of telling their stories. This is, of course, why I wrote "Cool Heroes for Boys—20 True Tales of Adventure" for my son and for America’s boys, but don’t just hand them a book. Rather, talk to them about these heroes and all they faced and what they got right and wrong. As you do, you’ll find that it’s the real stories of adventure that gets boys interested in learning.

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Democrats' socialist surge proves America's 250-year fight for freedom isn't over

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:39 -0400

Just two years ago, no one would have believed it.

While Donald Trump and Republicans celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of America, the freest and most powerful nation on Earth, Democrats and their rising radical tide are embracing communism, the worst and most destructive political system in history.

In June, Marxist radicals calling themselves Democratic Socialists swept the New York City primaries, confirming the trend that’s upended the Democratic establishment and created what one of those candidates dubbed "the Commie Corridor," stretching from New York to other blue states and cities.

DEMOCRATIC SOCIALISM IS SWEEPING THE NATION. VOTERS SHOULD BE ALARMED

Don’t be fooled by the name. Democratic Socialists of America may not call themselves communists, but they work closely with communist fronts like Red Star and Springs of Revolution, and even the Communist Party of China. The DSA has successfully drawn young people and other dupes into the Marxist fold, with their promise of free everything by confiscating the wealth of Elon Musk and other "billionaires and oligarchs." They’ve vowed to replace the "rugged individualism" of American capitalism with what their kingmaker, Zohran Mamdani, calls the "warmth of collectivism" — another name for communism.

Let’s look at the record of that collective warmth. Since the first revolution in Russia in 1917, communist governments have cost, by a very conservative estimate, more than 100 million lives, including 20 million in the Soviet Union, 65 million in China, 3 million in Vietnam and Cambodia, and millions more from Cuba to Africa and North Korea.

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Communist-style socialism has brought poverty, mass starvation and subsistence misery to tens of millions worldwide. It has turned countries with once-flourishing societies like Venezuela into economic basket cases; reduced others like Poland and Romania to Third World status — including the former Soviet Union — until Ronald Reagan and the United States won the Cold War and set them free.

Socialists like to say, "Capitalism kills," but socialism and communism kill many, many more.

What’s the United States’ record during those same years? Radicals like to attack the American "military-industrial complex," even though it managed to set free millions with victory in World War II and then in the Cold War. It may be poised to do something similar in Iran.

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They blame America for supposed "genocide" against Native Americans, just as they blame Israel for genocide today. The truth is, deaths of Native Americans in frontier wars pale by comparison with the actual genocide waged by Spanish settlers in Mexico and across Latin America, or the Russians in conquering Siberia — or the Chinese against their Muslim Uyghur minority today.

They attack Trump for "anti-immigrant" policies when, in fact, it’s been America’s highly successful capitalist economy that’s drawn immigrants, legal and illegal, for 250 years.

By contrast, socialist and communist economies attract no one. Just the opposite: People flee the result as soon as they can, as they did from East Germany, Cuba and North Korea, and just as they’re doing from America’s socialist offshoots in California, Illinois and New York.

That’s because, in the end, socialism and Marxism are a rebellion against human nature, even — with their embrace of transgender extremism — against nature itself. Socialism asks people to abandon their sense of individualism, their personal commitment to family, faith and nation, in order to serve what socialists call the common good — which means what their socialist and communist masters decide is the common good.

That includes handing over whatever you own or have earned for yourself. Socialists like to say private property is theft. In fact, under socialism, government is theft. "What you thought was yours," it tells its citizens, "is actually mine. And I’ll decide how much I’m going to leave you after I take what I want."

Abraham Lincoln once said the principle behind slavery was, "You work and toil and earn bread, and I'll eat it." That’s the principle behind socialism, as a modern version of slavery. It’s one millions in the former Soviet Union endured, and that millions more in Cuba, North Korea and China are enduring still.

Fortunately, our Founding Fathers knew this. They knew enough history to know how, in a free society, demagogues like Zohran Mamdani and Sen. Bernie Sanders could manipulate millions of voters into believing that economics is a zero-sum game and that the only way to make their lives better is by stealing from other citizens.

Therefore, our Founders built into their Declaration of Independence the principle that our rights are God-given, not government-given, including that all-precious "pursuit of happiness," which is left to the individual, not government, to define and discover.

They included the Fifth Amendment in the Bill of Rights, which protects your property under the takings clause.

They also made sure that the power of individuals to create and discover new ideas and technologies would be safe under our Constitution, with the creation, under Article I, Section 8, of the right to intellectual property and patents, which Lincoln, himself a patent holder, predicted would unleash the "fire of genius" that has grown and sustained the freest and richest economy on Earth, from the telegraph and electric light bulb to the automobile, the microchip, and today’s AI and quantum computers. What America as a free society is able to create, communist regimes like China have to steal, as socialism dries up human creativity and imagination, even as it rejects human nature.

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In short, our Founding Fathers made sure America would become a fountainhead of other founders — people with the vision, drive and realization that risk is a signal for opportunity, not danger — who would spawn businesses, industries, institutions and even movements like civil rights under Martin Luther King Jr. and Turning Point USA under the late Charlie Kirk. Founders who would boost their fellow Americans’ pursuit of happiness and freedom, instead of forcing them to submit to the Marxist dream of utopia.

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Americanism or communism; freedom or slavery; an economy built on human creativity and invention, or one built on organized theft. That’s the choice Americans face, not just in the upcoming midterms and then in 2028, but far into the future.

The original Founders trusted us enough to believe we’d continue to make the right choice, as we have over the last 250 years. Let’s hope and pray they were right.

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wild wedding weekend could include unusually long 'cocktail hour'

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:30 -0400

As Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce get set to tie the knot at Madison Square Garden in New York City on Friday, July 3, a hot topic of debate is the celebrity couple's plans for a cocktail hour ahead of their ceremony — an event that could far surpass the traditional hour and instead go as long as 2.5 hours, according to multiple reports about the weekend events.

"Yes, cocktail hours traditionally last one hour," said Florida-based etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore in response to reports about the unusual length of the pre-wedding event as part of a whirlwind day that could last into the wee hours of Friday evening. "This gives the newly married couple time to take pictures, and it gives the guests time to socialize and relax."

But "sometimes," she said, "the cocktail party can last more than an hour if the wedding party is quite large, running late — or if guests and the wedding party have to travel quite a distance to the reception venue."

TAYLOR SWIFT'S UNUSUAL WEDDING GIFTS RULE IGNITES ETIQUETTE DEBATE: 'HONOR THEIR WISHES'

Whitmore also said that, in her view, "it’s perfectly acceptable for the cocktail hour to run longer, as long as enough food and beverages are provided. Otherwise, the guests will most likely get cranky."

As Fox News Digital previously reported, Swift’s wedding to three-time Super Bowl winner Kelce may be a days-long affair involving street closures, hundreds of VIPs, a special police detail and taxpayer-funded security measures, according to a source with knowledge of the event.

Roughly 1,000 guests are expected to attend — with many described as "high profile" and "VIP" by the police department.

The reported schedule is igniting debate, however.

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"Hospitality is measured by comfort, not by the clock," said Lisa Mirza Grotts, a California-based etiquette expert and founder of Golden Rules Gal.

"If guests are well-fed and have plenty to drink, comfortable seating and opportunities to mingle, the celebration simply begins earlier. At larger weddings, an extended cocktail party also allows the couple more time to greet family and friends before the ceremony."

She also said that today's weddings "are less about following a timeline and more about creating an experience. Traditionally, the ceremony came first and the celebration followed. Today, many couples are reimagining that order."

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She noted that a "cocktail party before the ceremony allows guests to relax, connect with one another and settle into the celebration before the vows are exchanged."

When a bride writing on Reddit asked about her own planned two-hour cocktail party, many commenters had strong opinions.

"So cocktails are from 4:30-6:30? That does seem like a long time," one Reddit user said.

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"Don’t do this to your guests. A lot of couples just don’t attend cocktail hour because of photos and that’s totally fine. If you really want to attend cocktail hour, do all your photos beforehand," another said.

"I think two hours is [way] too long. One hour should be the cap for a cocktail hour. You can sneak away for the sunset photos during dinner," a third person chimed in.

A fourth said, "There’s a reason it’s called cocktail HOUR, and not cocktail two-hours! You could push it to 90 minutes if absolutely necessary, but two hours is definitely too long."

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"Seems a little long! I'd be exhausted and people may get very drunk," yet another said.

Whitmore said etiquette rules are in place for a reason.

Still, "wedding traditions have changed, and that’s perfectly fine," said the Florida-based authority. "The one thing that should never go out of style is consideration for your guests."

Michael Ruiz of Fox News Digital contributed reporting.

Navy SEAL who killed bin Laden says America's 250th proves hard work still pays, warns of 'victimhood' culture

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:29 -0400

Former U.S. Navy SEAL Robert O'Neill, who is credited with killing Usama bin Laden, reflected on America's 250th anniversary, praising opportunities for those willing to work hard while urging Americans to preserve the nation's values amid what he described as a growing hatred of its history.

"As we come up on our 250th anniversary of being the greatest country ever, it's just the opportunity here from my personal experience that reminds me, and I almost get to a point where I'm jealous of younger men that were my age when I joined because they literally have the world at their fingertips," O'Neill told Fox News Digital.

"You can do anything, seriously, in this country."

O'Neill, who served with SEAL Team 6 during Operation Neptune Spear, the 2011 raid that killed the al Qaeda mastermind and chief, encouraged more young people to step outside their comfort zones and contribute to America’s success.

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"I'm able to attribute a lot of my successes in life simply because I left the house," he said. "I went to join the military, and I did. In this country, I just proved you can do anything by not doing one thing. I just didn't stop. I never quit."

Looking back on his service, O'Neill said it was a "great honor" to leave home, rise through the ranks on merit, and earn a place on a team chosen solely on ability, calling his experience an example of "the greatness of the country."

"That team was proof of equal opportunity," he said. "You have an equal opportunity to try out, but you're gonna be tested every day, and if you don't pass, we're just gonna get rid of you. But the team was built because of this country, and the country has the ability to do that over and over again."

As millions prepare to celebrate the anniversary, O'Neill acknowledged that not everyone views the milestone positively, blaming a growing "victimhood" mindset for turning people away from the nation's history.

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"Part of the issue is we stop teaching our kids the past, and we're actually raising a lot of victims," he said. "I don't know why the victimhood is here. Maybe it's because the country is so great, we have to look back on the past and invent problems, and that's what we're doing right now."

A driving force behind this growing disdain is "institutional cowardice," according to O'Neill, who warned that "if we keep importing the enemy and won't call it what it is," the country risks deeper political division and, ultimately, "civil war."

"We're at a place right now of institutional cowardice where we're importing people based on untruths because people in political positions know that they'll vote for them if they keep doing what they're doing," he said.

"Once that base starts growing, they're going to get rid of what was referred to by communists as the 'useful idiots.' It's growing right now. I mean, it's almost ironic that we can look over the ocean at Great Britain on an anniversary from a country where we gained independence, and it's not like looking at another nation. We're looking at a glimpse into our future."

O'Neill said the nation loses its strength despite its ability to "win anything with force," arguing America would need to "import the enemy in order to lose."

"We're seeing right now that we can win anything with force, but we need to import the enemy in order to lose," he said. "What I mean by that is if we get infiltrated, pound for pound, we're never gonna lose a fight. Instead of telling the truth, we just try to appease. That's what we're seeing right now. We win the wars that we're in until we involve too many laws that we make up ourselves."

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But O'Neill said America can continue to succeed if it preserves its founding values, saying the country is "fragile" as "it's still an experiment."

Pointing to the British, Persian, and Ottoman empires as examples of powerful nations that eventually declined, O’Neill said America's 250-year run does not guarantee its future and people "need to reflect on our great nation and how it's very important that we keep it that way."

"We gotta realize that the American project, the experiment that it is, it's still worth continuing, and it's good to see that we made it 250 years, but also keep in mind, that's usually the lifetime of most empires," he said.

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O'Neill said people should not take the country's freedoms and opportunities for granted, saying he has seen "true poverty and real dictators" and that "it's a blessing" to be here.

"We need to realize that we have been padded by two oceans, the Pacific and the Atlantic, and you don't want to do the whole 'don't know what you got until it's gone,' because this country is great," he said.

The lesson we can learn from Bicentennial history is to party like it’s 1976

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:28 -0400

Can Americans come together over the next week to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary? With the country seemingly split into irreconcilable, and increasingly violent, camps, storm clouds darken the summer commemorations. Those worrying that the Semiquincentennial will be a giant bust should look no further than the Bicentennial. Plagued by similar fears, the Bicentennial turned into the biggest party the country had ever seen. Today, Americans should take heart and party like it’s 1976.

America’s two-hundredth anniversary came either at the worst possible moment or just in time. The previous 13 years had been among the most violent and disruptive since the Great Depression, possibly even the Civil War. The upheavals of the Civil Rights Movement had been punctuated by the tragic assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy. America’s postwar consensus had spectacularly disintegrated barely two decades after the resounding victory in World War II.

To many, America had fundamentally changed. After the assassinations and riots, and the lies of Vietnam and Watergate, the country had become more cynical and distrusting of government, the elites, and big business. As a Boston Globe columnist wrote, the great issue in the 1976 presidential campaign would be "to restore confidence of the American people in their government and themselves," short of which he feared the country would remain "purposeless, rudderless, powerless."

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In a country at once exhausted and divided, it could well be questioned whether Americans would celebrate or jeer the Bicentennial of the Declaration of Independence. Overwhelmingly, they celebrated.

As the jubilee approached, Bicentennial fever swept the country. A torrent of words on the Declaration and the Revolution poured off the presses, most with praise, many also arguing that America still struggled to live up to the promises of her founding document.

Over 12,566 towns and cities participated in the Bicentennial Communities project, renovating parks and historic buildings or building new community centers. Over seven million Americans visited the Freedom Train, which left Wilmington, Del., on April 1, 1975, and crisscrossed the country before ending its run on Dec. 31, 1976. As many as 10 million tourists toured Independence Hall and saw the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia. Queen Elizabeth II made a triumphal state visit, landing first in Philadelphia.

HOW CAPITALISM MISSED OUT AND FAILED TO CAPITALIZE ON AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

Against all expectations, the Bicentennial turned into both the greatest patriotic celebration and the greatest sales event in American history. Decades before e-commerce made buying with a click ubiquitous, Bicentennial hats, shirts, flags, medallions, coins, mini–Liberty Bells, commemorative booklets, posters, pillow covers, bed linens and pewter engravings sold by the millions through mail-order or catalogs.

Not surprisingly, Washington, D.C., was the center of the celebrations. Over 1.2 million people viewed the Declaration and Constitution at the National Archives over the course of 1976, while on July 2, the Archives opened its doors for a marathon seventy-six-hour "vigil," during which over 10,000 visitors stood in lines more than three hours long to gaze up at the priceless parchment.

Two days later, a street party took over Constitution Avenue in front of the National Archives, as 8,000 people gathered for a reading of the Declaration, heard patriotic songs and then joined in the cutting of a six-foot-tall, multilayered birthday cake.

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

On the morning of July 4, famed composer Leonard Bernstein read the Declaration before a crowd in Manhattan’s Battery Park. At 2 p.m. Eastern Time, bells rang out across the nation for two minutes, from church steeples, town halls and firehouses. Parades large and small snaked through Main Streets across the nation as people celebrated with barbecues, sports activities and bands. That evening over a million people packed the National Mall and lined the Potomac to witness a gigantic pyrotechnics display depicting eras in America’s past.

The Bicentennial celebrations did not magically solve all of America’s problems or create eternal fellowship. There were protests and condemnations of the country. However, the vast majority of Americans showed both pride and some badly needed perspective on their history. As an opinion poll taken by the Gallup Organization in June 1976 revealed, 77% of respondents felt that "we had succeeded over these 200 years in achieving the ideals for which this country was founded."

This year, away from the drama in Washington, social media anger and media sensationalism, it’s likely many Americans will feel the same way about their country’s 250th. There is a "Freedom Plane" currently touring the country, and exhibitions at the National Archives, Library of Congress and Smithsonian Institution, as well as at local museums and presidential libraries are drawing thousands of Americans to view artifacts from the country’s past. A new bevy of books on the founding, the Revolutionary War and the Declaration of Independence all are being published, and documentaries are being streamed.

Despite the anger manifested online and in the streets, despite rising incivility and political cage-match rhetoric, and even despite assassination attempts by a handful of deranged individuals, the vast majority of the country goes about its daily life peacefully. Debate and even heated argument about the country’s past are part of our tradition, not signs of imminent civil war.

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Our economic problems are serious, our politicians often incompetent, and our schools failing, among other concerns. Yet we need to remember why millions still come to these shores, why opportunity here is still open for the taking, and why very few Americans would trade life here for political systems in China, Russia or even most of Europe.

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As America reaches 250, we remain a great nation, even as we strive to fix our ills and create a more perfect Union. If that task remains forever unfinished, it does not delegitimize the country’s existence or our achievements, but calls us to recommit to the principles of the Declaration. Most of us, I am willing to bet, would agree deep down with the words of the Memphis Tri-State Defender, a Black newspaper, written in 1976: "this land is the only land that we have to live in, and most importantly, few Black Americans want to leave it for some other place."

So, don’t worry, be happy, and embrace the "Spirit of ’76."

WATCH: Controversial SCOTUS decision strikes a divide among lawmakers

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 04:00:48 -0400

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill had split reactions to the Supreme Court’s ruling to strike down President Donald Trump’s bid to end birthright citizenship, further allowing children born in the United States to be recognized as U.S. citizens.

"It's a terrible decision," Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., told Fox News Digital.

"Regulate folks before they come in — in terms of not coming here just to have a baby and leave," Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., said.

"In terms of the immigration process coming in, there should be regulation. Not that once you're born here that we're going to denaturalize you," he continued.

REPUBLICAN ACCUSES SCOTUS OF BETRAYING US, PUSHES BILL RESTRICTING BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP, PREGNANT VISITORS

The case, which left many Republicans and Democrats divided, challenged Trump’s executive order to detach birthright citizenship from the 14th Amendment. Most Democrats who Fox News Digital spoke to argued that if the ruling had gone the other way, it would have been considered unconstitutional.

"I think they got it right," Rep. Christian Menefee, D-Texas said. "The Supreme Court said that the Constitution says what it says. That if anybody even has a question about what the 14th Amendment says, I think it's a little embarrassing. So I'm glad they got it right."

TRUMP SUFFERS MAJOR SUPREME COURT DEFEAT AS JUSTICES UPHOLD BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP

"I believe in the Constitution," Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., said when asked about the ruling.

"The Constitution is the Constitution. If you don't like the Constitution, you can try to change it," Rep. Seth Magaziner, D-R.I., said. "But honestly, I think we've got much bigger problems as a country than Americans trying to live their lives as birthright citizens."

The 6-3 decision highlights a significant loss for Trump’s immigration agenda as he has criticized birthright citizenship as a "magnet for illegal immigration."

ICE SURGES ENFORCEMENT, MAKES 10,000 ARRESTS IN FIVE DAYS AMID SUPREME COURT BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP DECISION

"I think the president has an obsession with immigrants in this country," Rep. Sarah Elfreth, D-Md., said. "He's hell bent on making it as uncomfortable as possible. We've seen that time and again with ICE, we've seen this with an attack on the 14th Amendment."

Justice Clarence Thomas, Justice Neil Gorsuch and Justice Samuel Alito were the three to dissent — arguing the 14th Amendment does not guarantee birthright citizenship to all children born to parents who are unlawfully and temporarily in the country. Alito cited that the ruling fails to recognize the rise of "birth tourism," the concept that foreigners come to America just to give birth, potentially opening the door to national security threats.

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Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., and Rep. Maxine Waters, D-Calif., declined to comment on the ruling to Fox News Digital.

"Americans should be happy, because the Constitution means more than one guy’s opinion," Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., said.

Appeals court blocks Trump admin from holding migrants without bond for over 90 days

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 02:48:54 -0400

An appeals court on Thursday ruled that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement cannot detain immigrants for more than 90 days without giving them an opportunity to seek release on bond while their deportation proceedings are pending.

In a 2-1 ruling, the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided against the administration, potentially affecting thousands of immigrants who have been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in states within the court 's jurisdiction, including Texas and Louisiana.

Judge Leslie Southwick, writing for the majority, said the U.S. Supreme Court found in 2001 that the due process clause protects everyone, including two Mexican citizens and one Honduran whose cases were at issue in this case.

"It is part of the historic majesty of this long-ago founding charter that it makes no exceptions in providing basic rights to those within our boundaries, including a right to be heard when personal liberty is taken," Southwick wrote.

FEDERAL APPEALS COURT UPHOLDS TRUMP MASS DETENTION POLICY FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS

In a dissenting opinion, Judge Cory Wilson said the majority "marginalizes the Constitution's express grant of plenary authority over immigration matters to Congress."

A different panel of the same court had previously been the first in the country to side with the administration's novel interpretation of a federal immigration statute allowing mandatory detention of non-citizens living in the U.S.

However, that ruling in February did not address whether the due process protections of the U.S. Constitution's Fifth Amendment require giving the immigrants an opportunity to seek release on bond by appearing before an immigration judge.

Rebecca Cassler, a lawyer for the migrants at the American Immigration Council, said in a statement to Reuters that the group is "delighted that the panel recognized the core constitutional principle that the due process clause does not allow the government to lock them away indefinitely."

The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement to the outlet that it disagrees with the ruling, adding that it is "confident in its legal position regarding mandatory detention."

Fox News Digital reached out to the department for comment.

Last week, the administration had asked the Supreme Court to review a similar ruling by a different appeals court.

Federal immigration law states that "applicants for admission" to the country are subject to mandatory detention ⁠while their cases proceed in immigration courts, making them ineligible for bond hearings.

BIDEN JUDGE OVERRULED ON KEY TRUMP IMMIGRATION POLICY

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Despite a long-standing interpretation of immigration law, the Department of Homeland Security claimed last year that non-citizens who are already in the U.S. qualify as "applicants for admission" subject to mandatory detention, rather than only people arriving at the border.

The Board of Immigration Appeals, which is part of the Justice Department, announced in September that it had adopted the Department of Homeland Security's interpretation.

Immigration judges employed by the department began ordering mandatory detention across the country.

Reuters contributed to this report.

Judge blocks Philadelphia law targeting masked federal officers

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 01:43:03 -0400

A federal judge on Thursday temporarily blocked Philadelphia from enforcing against federal officers a law that restricted law enforcement officers’ use of masks, concealed identification and unmarked vehicles.

U.S. District Judge Chad Kenney, issued a preliminary injunction blocking Philadelphia from enforcing the mask ban and other restrictions against federal officers before they are set to take effect on Tuesday.

The judge ruled that the city cannot determine how federal officers conduct operations, siding with the Justice Department, which sued last month and argued the measure was a "blatantly unconstitutional" attempt to regulate federal agents.

"When the Philadelphia City Council voted to pass Bill No. 260060 … it attempted to sidestep the Constitution’s clear mandate and disregarded this fundamental principle of law that has informed American jurisprudence for over 200 years," Kenney wrote, citing the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, which establishes that federal law preempts state and local law in cases of conflict.

DOJ ESCALATES BLUE-STATE ICE STANDOFF AFTER STATES REFUSE KEY FEDERAL REQUEST

"Endorsing the City of Philadelphia's position would mean ... municipalities could decide whether to pass their own laws regulating how, when, where, and whether federal law enforcement officers can conceal their identities," he added.

Philadelphia's mask ban against federal officers was approved earlier this year as part of a larger legislative package passed by the City Council amid a national debate over masked immigration agents carrying out raids targeting migrants in communities across the country, with some of these agents documented shooting people, including two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis in January.

The measure applied to local, state and federal law enforcement officers, but Thursday’s injunction blocked Philadelphia from enforcing it against federal officers. The statute would ban covered officers from wearing masks or shielding their identities while on duty and interacting with the public, with exceptions including medical masks, religious coverings, certain tactical equipment and hazardous conditions. They would also be required to wear visible badges and use marked vehicles in certain circumstances.

The statute would ban federal officers from wearing masks or shielding their identities. They would also be required to wear visible badges and use marked vehicles.

Officers could be subject to civil and criminal penalties under the ordinance.

"This type of direct regulation of the federal government by a municipality is blatantly impermissible," Kenney wrote.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, a Democrat, declined to sign the bill, saying the city solicitor's office informed her it presented significant legal problems.

Kenney wrote that Parker "acted with civic wisdom and courage to stand up for the Constitution and follow the rule of law where it led" by not signing the measure.

But the bill was not vetoed and became law in May after Parker allowed it to take effect without her signature.

Fox News Digital reached out to the city for comment on Thursday's ruling.

In a statement to Reuters, the Justice Department praised the court's ruling and said the department "will keep fighting jurisdictions that try to obstruct President Trump's immigration enforcement with policies that endanger agents and public safety."

Fox News Digital reached out to the Justice Department for comment.

MINNESOTA SENATE VOTES TO BAN ICE FROM WEARING MASKS, ALLOW RESIDENTS TO SUE FOR CONSTITUTIONAL VIOLATIONS

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This is just the latest in ongoing legal fights between the Trump administration and state and local governments that have attempted to adopt mask bans or identification requirements affecting federal officers.

On Tuesday, a federal judge blocked a new law in Virginia barring federal law enforcement from wearing masks.

In February, a federal judge halted a California law that prohibited federal officers from wearing masks while on duty.

The Justice Department also sued New Jersey to block a similar mask ban targeting federal officers.

Reuters contributed to this report.

'American Kitchen' serves up the ultimate backyard barbecue menu with steak, ribs, seafood and more

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:01:41 -0400

As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, backyard barbecues and home-cooked meals remain at the heart of many Independence Day traditions.

A new Fox Nation special, "American Kitchen: An America 250 BBQ," celebrates those flavors with patriotic recipes, grilling inspiration and dishes that reflect the country's diverse culinary traditions.

Premiering July 3, the special features decorated U.S. Army veteran and celebrity chef Andre Rush alongside chef David Burke, with appearances by chef Robert Irvine, as they showcase classic American cooking and Fourth of July favorites.

GEORGE WASHINGTON'S 1757 BEER RECIPE BROUGHT BACK TO LIFE AHEAD OF AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY

Below are nine recipes featured in the special, offering everything from classic barbecue favorites to regional dishes inspired by communities across the country.

1. Live-Fire Oak-Smoked Salmon on Cedar & Banana Leaf

A rustic, open-fire method that layers salmon over banana leaf and cedar plank, allowing gentle oak smoke to flavor the fish while keeping it exceptionally moist over live coals.

The banana leaf acts as a protective barrier, preventing the salmon from sticking or drying out during the slow roast. (Yields: 6–8)

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salmon

1 side salmon fillet (3–4 lbs), skin-on, pin bones removed

1 untreated cedar plank (large enough to fit fillet)

1 large banana leaf

4–6 food-safe stainless steel nails or metal skewers

Chunk oak firewood, burned down to glowing coals

Spray bottle filled with water

Herb & Garlic Marinade

8 garlic cloves, roughly chopped

Shallots, roughly chopped

1 cup olive oil

1 bunch parsley, roughly chopped

1 bunch dill, roughly chopped

½ cup capers, drained

1 bunch basil

Zest and juice of 2 lemons

Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Buttermilk Herb Sauce

1½ cups buttermilk

¾ cup mayonnaise

¾ cup sour cream

½ bunch basil

2 tbsp chopped dill

2 tbsp chopped parsley

2 tbsp capers

2 hard-boiled eggs

Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

'AMERICAN KITCHEN' CHEF SERVES CREAMY ACORN SQUASH SOUP IN EDIBLE BOWLS 'THAT EVERYONE WILL LOVE'

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cedar Plank & Banana Leaf

Submerge the cedar plank in water for at least 1–2 hours, or overnight if possible. This prevents the wood from burning too quickly over the fire.

Run the banana leaf under warm water or briefly pass it over a flame for several seconds until pliable. Trim to fit the plank.

2. Build the Fire

Use chunk oak firewood to build a live fire. Allow the wood to burn down until you have a steady bed of glowing coals with low, controlled flames. The goal is gentle smoke and indirect heat rather than aggressive flames.

3. Make the Marinade

In a food processor or blender, combine garlic, shallots, olive oil, parsley, dill, capers, basil, lemon zest and juice.

Blend until rustic but spoonable. Season with salt and black pepper.

Spread the mixture generously over the salmon fillet. Let marinate at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.

4. Assemble the Plank

Lay the banana leaf over the soaked cedar plank.

Place the salmon skin-side down on top of the leaf. Secure the salmon, banana leaf and plank together using stainless steel nails or skewers.

The banana leaf protects the fish while allowing the cedar and oak smoke to gently perfume the salmon.

5. Cook the Salmon

Place the planked salmon near — not directly over — the oak coals.

Cook slowly for 35–45 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches approximately 140°F.

Keep the spray bottle nearby to control any flare-ups from the cedar plank.

6. Make the Buttermilk Herb Sauce

Whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise and sour cream.

Finely chop the basil, dill, parsley, capers and hard-boiled eggs. Fold into the dressing mixture and season with salt and pepper.

Chill until ready to serve.

7. Serve

Carefully remove the plank from the fire using heat-resistant gloves.

Lift the salmon from the banana leaf and serve directly from the cedar plank alongside the chilled buttermilk herb sauce.

Serve with grilled lemons, charred vegetables, roasted potatoes or fire-toasted bread.

2. Smoked Bulgogi-Glazed St. Louis Ribs

Slow-smoked until deeply tender and finished with a glossy Korean-inspired bulgogi glaze, these St. Louis ribs balance smoke, sweetness, heat and umami. The combination of soy, garlic, ginger, sesame and gochujang creates a lacquered finish that caramelizes beautifully during the final stage of cooking.

CHEF ON 'AMERICAN KITCHEN' SHARES COMMON SPICE THAT TURNS ORDINARY POTATOES INTO MEDITERRANEAN DELIGHT

Two full racks comfortably serve 6–8 people, depending on portion size and sides. (Yields: 6–8)

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 5½–6 hours
Rest Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Ribs

2 full racks St. Louis-style pork ribs

Yellow mustard, for binding

Dry Rub

3 tbsp brown sugar

2 tbsp smoked paprika

1 tbsp kosher salt

1 tbsp black pepper

1 tbsp garlic powder

1 tbsp onion powder

1 tsp cayenne pepper

Bulgogi Marinade & Glaze

1 cup soy sauce

½ cup brown sugar

¼ cup honey

1 Asian pear, grated (or 1 apple)

8 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

3 tbsp sesame oil

2 tbsp rice vinegar

2 tbsp gochujang

1 tbsp black pepper

2 green onions, chopped

Finishing Sauce

½ cup barbecue sauce

¼ cup reserved bulgogi glaze

1 tbsp butter

Garnish

Sesame seeds

Sliced green onions

Pickled vegetables

Fresh cilantro, optional

'AMERICAN KITCHEN' CELEBRITY CHEF SHARES SECRET OF MAKING RESTAURANT-QUALITY PRIME RIB AT HOME

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs

Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs using a paper towel for grip.

Lightly coat both sides of the ribs with yellow mustard.

In a bowl, combine all dry rub ingredients and season the ribs generously on all sides.

Allow the ribs to rest at room temperature while preparing the smoker.

2. Make the Bulgogi Glaze

Combine all bulgogi marinade ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.

Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Remove from heat and cool completely.

Reserve 1 cup of the glaze for basting and finishing later.

3. Prepare the Smoker

Preheat the smoker to 250°F.

Use applewood, hickory, oak or a combination for balanced smoke flavor.

Once the smoker is stable and producing clean smoke, place the ribs bone-side down directly on the grates.

4. Smoke the Ribs

Smoke the ribs uncovered for approximately 3 hours.

During this stage, the ribs will develop color, bark, and smoke flavor.

Lightly brush the ribs with bulgogi glaze during the final hour if desired.

5. Wrap the Ribs

Remove the ribs from the smoker.

Brush generously with bulgogi glaze, then wrap each rack tightly in heavy-duty foil with 2 tbsp butter and an extra splash of bulgogi glaze.

Return the wrapped ribs to the smoker and continue cooking for 1½–2 hours, until tender.

The ribs should bend easily and the meat should begin pulling back from the bones.

6. Finish & Caramelize

Carefully unwrap the ribs and return them to the smoker uncovered.

Combine the barbecue sauce, reserved bulgogi glaze and butter to make the finishing sauce.

Brush the ribs generously with the finishing sauce.

Smoke uncovered for an additional 30–45 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize into a sticky, lacquered finish.

7. Rest & Serve

Transfer the ribs to a cutting board and rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Finish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, pickled vegetables and fresh cilantro, if desired.

Serve warm with additional glaze alongside steamed rice, grilled vegetables or crisp slaw.

3. Grilled Clambake Foil Packets

A grill-friendly version of a classic coastal clambake, cooked in foil packets over indirect heat until the clams steam open and the butter, wine, lemon and smoky sausage create a rich broth inside the packet.

This recipe can be made as individual foil packets for each guest or one large foil packet served family-style.

FROM YELLOWSTONE TO YOSEMITE, NEW COOKBOOK REVEALS RECIPES INSPIRED BY AMERICA'S MOST ICONIC PARKS

Serve with additional melted or drawn butter on the side, if desired. (Yields: 6–8)

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes

Ingredients

60 littleneck clams, scrubbed clean
6 ears corn, cut into halves or thirds
1¼ lbs smoked sausage, sliced into thick rounds
1 cup dry white wine
1¼ lbs unsalted butter, cubed and divided
½ cup fresh lemon juice
¾ lb pee wee potatoes (or baby potatoes), halved if needed
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1 small handful pea shoots
½ cup sliced peppadew peppers
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Fresh parsley, pea shoots, or lemon wedges for serving
Heavy-duty aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill

Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium heat, approximately 375°F.

For charcoal grills, arrange coals to one side for indirect cooking. For gas grills, leave one burner on low or off to create an indirect heat zone.

Close the lid and allow the grill to fully preheat.

2. Par-Cook the Potatoes & Corn

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes until slightly tender.

Add the corn during the final 3–4 minutes of cooking. Drain well.

3. Assemble the Foil Packets

Tear large sheets of heavy-duty foil.

For individual packets, divide all ingredients evenly among 6–8 packets. For one large packet, use a double layer of foil and pile everything into the center.

Layer potatoes, corn, sausage, cherry tomatoes, peppadew peppers and clams.

Pour the white wine and lemon juice evenly over the mixture.

Distribute the cubed butter throughout the packets. As the packets cook, the butter combines with the wine, clam juices and lemon to create the broth.

Season lightly with kosher salt and black pepper.

Top with pea shoots.

Seal the packets tightly, crimping all edges securely to trap the steam.

4. Grill the Clambake

Place the packets on the indirect heat side of the grill.

Close the lid and cook for 30–40 minutes, depending on packet size and grill temperature.

Rotate the packets once during cooking for even heat distribution.

The clambake is ready when the clams have fully opened, the potatoes are tender, the broth is bubbling and the sausage is heated through.

Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.

5. Serve

Carefully open the foil packets — hot steam will escape immediately.

Serve directly from the packets or transfer to a large serving platter with plenty of the buttery broth spooned over the top.

Finish with fresh lemon wedges, parsley, or additional pea shoots.

Serve additional melted or drawn butter on the side, if desired.

4. Fire Pit Clambake Foil Packets

A rustic, fire-cooked clambake designed for cooking directly over hot coals in a fire pit. Clams, sausage, potatoes, sweet corn, tomatoes, butter, white wine and bright lemon steam together inside foil packets until smoky, briny and deeply flavorful.

This recipe can be prepared as individual foil packets for each guest or one large shared foil packet for serving family-style.

'AMERICAN KITCHEN' CHEF SHARES SECRET TO HOMEMADE LASAGNA THAT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH MEASUREMENTS

Additional melted or drawn butter can be served on the side, if desired. (Yields: 6–8)

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes

Ingredients

60 littleneck clams, scrubbed clean

6 ears corn, cut in halves or thirds

1¼ lbs smoked sausage, sliced into thick rounds

1 cup dry white wine

1¼ lbs unsalted butter, divided

½ cup fresh lemon juice

¾ lb pee wee potatoes (or small baby potatoes), halved if needed

1 pint cherry tomatoes

1 small handful pea shoots

½ cup sliced peppadew peppers (estimated amount)

Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Fresh parsley or additional pea shoots, for garnish

Heavy-duty aluminum foil

'AMERICAN KITCHEN' CHEF'S POPOVERS RISE TO THE OCCASION

Instructions

1. Build the Fire

Prepare a wood fire in a fire pit and allow it to burn down to a steady bed of hot coals with moderate heat.

You want enough residual heat to steadily steam and roast the packets without scorching them.

2. Par-Cook the Potatoes & Corn

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes until just beginning to soften.

Add the corn during the final 3–4 minutes. Drain well.

This ensures everything finishes cooking evenly inside the packets.

3. Assemble the Packets

Tear large sheets of heavy-duty foil.

For individual packets, divide ingredients evenly among 6–8 packets. For one large packet, double-layer the foil and pile everything in the center.

Layer in potatoes, corn, sausage, cherry tomatoes, peppadew peppers and clams.

Pour the wine and lemon juice evenly over everything.

Cut the butter into cubes and distribute throughout the packets. The butter melts into the seafood broth as the clambake cooks.

Season lightly with kosher salt and black pepper.

Top with pea shoots.

Seal the foil tightly, crimping all edges well to trap the steam.

4. Cook Over the Fire

Place the foil packets directly over the hot coals or on a grill grate positioned above the fire.

Cook for 35–45 minutes, rotating occasionally if needed for even heat.

The clambake is ready when the clams have opened, the potatoes are tender, the sausage is heated through and the broth is bubbling and fragrant.

Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.

5. Serve

Carefully open the packets — hot steam will escape immediately.

Serve directly from the foil with crusty bread and additional melted or drawn butter on the side, if desired.

Finish with extra lemon, parsley or fresh pea shoots before serving.

5. Oak-Smoked Cedar Plank Salmon on the Grill

This grill-friendly version captures the same wood-fired character and slow-roasted texture of traditional plank salmon without the banana leaf or nailed presentation.

Cooking the salmon directly on a soaked cedar plank allows the fish to absorb gentle oak smoke while staying tender and moist over indirect heat. (Yields: 6-8)

WORLD CUP FANS FALL IN LOVE WITH AMERICAN CULTURE, COMFORT FOOD CLASSICS

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salmon

1 side salmon fillet (3–4 lbs), skin-on, pin bones removed

1 untreated cedar plank, large enough to fit the salmon

Chunk oak firewood or oak smoking chunks

Neutral oil, for lightly brushing the plank if desired

Herb & Garlic Marinade

8 garlic cloves, roughly chopped

4 shallots, roughly chopped

1 cup olive oil

1 bunch parsley, roughly chopped

1 bunch dill, roughly chopped

½ cup capers, drained

1 bunch basil

Zest and juice of 2 lemons

Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Buttermilk Herb Sauce

1½ cups buttermilk

¾ cup mayonnaise

¾ cup sour cream

½ bunch basil

2 tbsp chopped dill

2 tbsp chopped parsley

2 tbsp capers

2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped

Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Soak the Cedar Plank

Submerge the cedar plank in water for at least 1–2 hours, or overnight if possible. This helps prevent the plank from burning too quickly on the grill.

If desired, lightly brush the top of the soaked plank with neutral oil to further reduce sticking.

2. Prepare the Grill

Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium heat, approximately 350–375°F.

For charcoal grills, push the coals to one side for indirect cooking. Add chunk oak firewood or oak smoking chunks directly onto the hot coals.

For gas grills, use indirect heat by leaving one burner off or lowering one side of the grill. Add oak chunks in a smoker box or foil packet with ventilation holes.

Close the lid and allow smoke to develop.

3. Make the Marinade

In a food processor or blender, combine garlic, shallots, olive oil, parsley, dill, capers, basil, lemon zest and juice.

Pulse until rustic but spreadable. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper.

Spread the marinade evenly over the salmon fillet and let sit for 20–30 minutes at room temperature.

4. Grill the Salmon

Place the marinated salmon skin-side down directly onto the soaked cedar plank.

Transfer the plank to the indirect heat side of the grill and close the lid.

Cook for 30–40 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, the internal temperature reaches approximately 140°F and the edges are lightly caramelized and smoky.

If the plank begins to smolder aggressively, lightly mist the edges with water.

5. Make the Buttermilk Herb Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise and sour cream.

Fold in basil, dill, parsley, capers and chopped hard-boiled eggs.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

6. Serve

Carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using heat-resistant gloves.

Serve the salmon directly from the plank with the chilled buttermilk herb sauce alongside grilled lemons, charred vegetables, roasted potatoes, or toasted rustic bread.

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6. Classic Charred Corn on the Grill

A straightforward, American summer cookout staple.

Fresh sweet corn is grilled until lightly charred, then finished with melted butter, salt, black pepper and fresh lemon. Simple, smoky, and built for backyard barbecues, smoked ribs, burgers and Fourth of July gatherings. (Yields: 6-8)

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

Ingredients

8 ears fresh sweet corn, husks removed

6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Kosher salt

Freshly cracked black pepper

1 lemon, cut into wedges

Chopped fresh parsley, optional

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.

Clean and lightly oil the grates if needed.

2. Grill the Corn

Place the corn directly on the grill grates.

Cook, turning every few minutes, until the corn is tender and lightly charred on all sides, about 12–15 minutes total.

The kernels should develop dark golden spots without becoming overly blackened.

3. Finish the Corn

Transfer the grilled corn to a platter.

Brush generously with melted butter while still hot.

Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Squeeze fresh lemon over the corn and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.

4. Serve

Serve immediately alongside smoked meats, barbecue ribs, grilled burgers, sausages, baked beans, potato salad or watermelon.

Additional melted butter can be served on the side for guests.

7. Grilled Bulgogi-Glazed St. Louis Ribs

These Korean-inspired St. Louis ribs are slow-cooked on the grill until tender, then lacquered with a sweet-savory bulgogi glaze layered with soy, garlic, ginger, sesame and gochujang.

Finished over live heat for caramelization, the ribs develop a sticky, smoky crust without requiring a smoker.

Two full racks typically serve 6–8 people comfortably, depending on sides and portion size. (Yields: 6–8)

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 4½–5 hours
Rest Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Ribs

2 full racks St. Louis-style pork ribs

Yellow mustard, for binding

Dry Rub

3 tbsp brown sugar

2 tbsp smoked paprika

1 tbsp kosher salt

1 tbsp black pepper

1 tbsp garlic powder

1 tbsp onion powder

1 tsp cayenne pepper

Bulgogi Marinade & Glaze

1 cup soy sauce

½ cup brown sugar

¼ cup honey

1 Asian pear, grated (or 1 apple)

8 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

3 tbsp sesame oil

2 tbsp rice vinegar

2 tbsp gochujang

1 tbsp black pepper

2 green onions, chopped

Finishing Sauce

½ cup barbecue sauce

¼ cup reserved bulgogi glaze

1 tbsp butter

Garnish

Sesame seeds

Sliced green onions

Pickled vegetables

Fresh cilantro, optional

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs

Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs using a paper towel for grip.

Lightly coat the ribs with yellow mustard.

In a bowl, combine all dry rub ingredients and season the ribs generously on all sides.

Allow the ribs to rest at room temperature while preparing the grill.

2. Make the Bulgogi Glaze

Combine all bulgogi marinade ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.

Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Cool completely.

Reserve 1 cup of the glaze for basting and finishing later.

3. Prepare the Grill

Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to approximately 275°F using indirect heat.

For charcoal grills, bank coals to one side.

For gas grills, leave one burner off or on very low.

If desired, add wood chunks or foil packets of wood chips for light smoke flavor.

4. Slow Grill the Ribs

Place the ribs bone-side down on the indirect heat side of the grill.

Close the lid and cook for approximately 2½–3 hours, maintaining a steady temperature around 275°F.

Rotate occasionally for even cooking.

5. Wrap the Ribs

Brush the ribs generously with bulgogi glaze.

Wrap each rack tightly in heavy-duty foil with 2 tbsp butter and an additional splash of bulgogi glaze.

Return the wrapped ribs to the grill over indirect heat and cook for another 1½–2 hours, until tender.

6. Finish & Caramelize

Carefully unwrap the ribs.

Combine the barbecue sauce, reserved bulgogi glaze and butter to make the finishing sauce.

Brush generously over the ribs.

Return the ribs to the grill uncovered for 15–30 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and become sticky and lacquered.

Watch carefully during this stage to prevent burning.

7. Rest & Serve

Transfer the ribs to a cutting board and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Finish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, pickled vegetables and fresh cilantro, if desired.

Serve hot with additional glaze on the side.

8. Heirloom Tomato & Beet Salad

Yields 4 portions – family style

Ingredients

For the roasted beets

1 lb. yellow beets

2 tbsp evo oil

½ cup water

For the dressing

¼ cup red wine vinegar

2 tsp Dijon mustard

2 tsp dried oregano flakes

½ tsp kosher salt

1 dash ground black pepper

½ cup evo oil

For the salad

8 oz stracciatella cheese

1 lb. multi-color heirloom tomatoes, 1/2" thick sliced

2 each cara cara oranges, segmented

1 large fennel bulb, sliced thin

6 oz thin sliced prosciutto ham

2 tbsp fig balsamic glaze (or regular balsamic glaze)

¼ cup fresh basil sprigs, torn

¼ cup pistachios, chopped

2 tsp maldon sea salt flakes (optional)

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Instructions

For the Roasted Beets

Pre heat oven to 375 F.
Toss the beets with oil and place into a casserole dish with ½ cup of water and cover with foil. Roast in the oven at 375 F for 60 minutes or until tender.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Peel the beets and cut into wedges and set aside.

For the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk the vinegar, mustard, oregano, salt and pepper together. Slowly whisk in the evo oil and set aside.

For the Salad

Spread the stracciatella cheese across the center of a large serving platter.
Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the cheese.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the roast beets, orange segments and sliced fennel with the dressing. Arrange on top and around the sliced tomatoes.
Fold and place the thin sliced prosciutto ham down the middle and on top of the arranged salad.
Drizzle the balsamic glaze on top of the salad and garnish with torn pieces of basil sprigs, pistachios and Maldon sea salt.

9. Dry-Aged Prime Porterhouse with Porcini-Coriander Dry Rub & Chimichurri Sauce

Yields 4 portions

Ingredients

For the steak dry rub

1/4 cup porcini mushroom powder

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup kosher salt

1 tbsp ground black pepper

1 tsp red pepper flakes

2 tbsp ground coriander

For the chimichurri sauce

1 bunch fresh cilantro

3 bunches fresh parsley

5 each peeled whole garlic cloves

2 cups grapeseed oil

3 each lemons, zested and juiced

¼ cup red wine vinegar

2 tsp kosher salt

1 tsp ground black pepper

Other ingredients

1 each 36 oz prime (or choice) dry-aged porterhouse steak

2 tbsp grapeseed oil (to oil the grill with)

Instructions

For the steak dry rub

In a mixing bowl, mix all the steak dry rub spice ingredients together.

For the chimichurri sauce

Place all of the chimichurri ingredients into a blender and purée together for 30 seconds until blended well.

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Grill and serve

Heat a gas or charcoal grill and set up the heat so that half of the grill is high heat and the other half is medium-low heat.
Using a pair of tongs and a towel, lightly rub the heated grill grates with a little grapeseed oil.
Generously sprinkle both sides of the steak well with the dry rub mix.
Sear the dry rubbed seasoned steak on the hottest area of the grill for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Next move the grilled steak to the medium-low side of the grill and continue to cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the steak reaches between 125 F to 130 F degrees for medium-rare.
Remove the cooked steak and allow to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serve the dry-rubbed grilled steak with the chimichurri sauce on the side.

Fox News Digital's Kelly McGreal contributed to this report.

VAR denies Croatia's game-tying goal as Cristiano Ronaldo leads Portugal to Round of 16

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 23:15:51 -0400

Croatia thought their FIFA World Cup hopes were still alive when they scored the game-tying goal just before the end of stoppage time in the second half.

But a VAR review said Mario Pasalic was offside, and it was Portugal moving on instead.

Gonçalo Ramos’ goal just minutes earlier — a beautiful header into the back of the net in the 94th minute — was the decider in this 2-1 victory for Portugal. And it was only the second time in Portuguese World Cup history the nation needed to come from behind to win, underscoring its resilience on the sport's biggest stage.

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It was a controversial ending, though, and one where Croatia tried to argue the ball never hit the head of Igor Matanovic, which made Pasalic offside during VAR review.

It’s also worth noting that a new chip within the ball shows when it is touched, giving more concrete evidence to the referee’s final decision in such a crucial time of the match. This was the 10th goal overruled by VAR thus far in the World Cup.

GABRIEL MARTINELLI'S 96TH-MINUTE GOAL RESCUES BRAZIL FROM JAPAN UPSET IN WORLD CUP ROUND OF 32

So, with the goal annulled, Croatia’s time at the tournament has ended. As a result, Croatian legend Luka Modrić is finishing his fifth World Cup, which will likely be the 40-year-old midfielder’s final one.

But another older legend on the pitch will move on, as Cristiano Ronaldo made some World Cup history during this match.

When No. 7 stepped foot on the pitch and the ball was kicked, he became the oldest player to participate in a knockout stage match at the World Cup at 41 years and 147 days old. He also became the oldest player to score in a knockout stage match when he saw a penalty situation while Portugal was down 1-0 in the match.

Ivan Perisic got the first goal of this game and put Portugal’s back against the wall. But after a foul was committed inside Croatia’s box in the 67th minute, it was time for Ronaldo to get his first career knockout goal, and he didn’t disappoint.

Ronaldo was ecstatic, sprinting toward the corner flag and performing his signature "SIU!" celebration, which the crowd bellowed with the score at 1-1. Ronaldo had also seemed to get that first knockout goal just minutes earlier but he was called offside.

Modrić and Ronaldo, two former teammates on Real Madrid, also made history together, as they were the first two players 40 years or older to play in the same match together.

It was also an emotional moment after the match, as Ronaldo wore the jersey of late Portugal teammate Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident a year ago. A team photo was taken on the pitch, with Ronaldo holding up Jota's jersey alongside his squad.

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Now that the job is done in the Round of 32 for Portugal, they face a big challenge against a key rival in the Round of 16.

Spain, who dominated Austria with a 3-0 finish earlier on Thursday, awaits Portugal at Dallas Stadium on July 6 at 3 p.m. ET.

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The Democratic socialists are no longer on the fringe

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 23:03:57 -0400

No one will struggle to keep warm amid an historic heat wave gripping the eastern U.S.

But how about keeping "your comrade warm?"

No. You’re not back in the USSR.

But you might be in the Democratic party.

SOCIALISTS SWEEP NYC AS AMERICANS BALK AT MOVEMENT’S BRUTAL CATCH: ‘TALK TO IMMIGRANTS’

"You deserve to make sure that your international comrades are actually working with you and getting the benefits that you that you all deserve," said Democratic New York House nominee Darializa Avila Chevalier at a union rally in New York City.

"Half of the people here are strangers to you all. But now you have comrades," said Colorado Democratic Congressional nominee Melat Kiros who defeated Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) Tuesday.

"I’ve got to give a shout out to my comrades," said Missouri Democratic Congressional candidate Hartzell Gray on a podcast interview.

To Democratic Socialists, you don’t know how lucky you are.

"You have the solidarity of the entire labor movement. And you have my solidarity, too," said Democratic New York House nominee Claire Valdez.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) didn’t endorse either Avila Chevalier nor Valdez. However, he did congratulate them. Jeffries naturally needs Avila Chavalier, Valdez and Democratic New York House nominee Brad Lander to win. They probably will this fall. But when asked about progressives who prevailed in the New York primary – who he didn’t endorse – Jeffries delivered a nuanced answer.

"I will support every single Democratic incumbent in the New York Congressional delegation and beyond," said Jeffries.

CNN resuscitated a set of old tweets from Avila Chevalier. Some praised communism. Others called for more Marxist literature in libraries. Yours truly pressed Jeffries about whether he should call out Avila Chevalier for some of her old social media postings.

"Should she apologize or clarify some of these very inflammatory tweets that she sent?" I queried.

"That’s a question you're going to have to ask her," answered Jeffries.

"But as Leader, is that a problem?" I followed up.

"I've spoken to this issue. I've expressed my position as it relates to many of the things that she has said in the past over Twitter. my statement speaks for itself," answered Jeffries.

Then the 29-year-old Melat Kiros whipped 29-year House veteran Diana DeGette in Colorado. Kiros’s victory demonstrated that the Democratic Socialist message didn’t just resonate in the urban canyons of lower Manhattan. But in the Rocky Mountains, too.

"What we are fighting for is Medicare for all. Universal child care. Abolishing ICE. And ending the genocide in Gaza," said Kiros.

These are core subjects for the left.

"They're winning on platforms like Medicare for all. Universal health care. Universal childcare. Raising the minimum wage," said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA). "These ideas, whether you call it socialism or not, they are very popular across the country."

Progressive influencer Hasan Piker believes victories by these candidates in New York and Colorado are just the beginning.

"Progressive politics, left populism. It can work in every district in every state. That's why I kept saying over and over again, it's coming to a city near you," said Piker.

But not everyone is on board.

"Will Democrats continue to defend crazypants?" asked Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) on Fox.

Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH) is another. He’s a moderate, pro-Israel Democrat in a battleground district in which President Trump carried in 2024.

HAKEEM JEFFRIES CONFRONTED ON 'YOU'RE NEXT' CHANTS FOLLOWING NY DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST VICTORIES

"My folks want really normal folks. Democrats, Republicans, just people who are going to get things done. And so they see this because this is what gets attention," said Landsman. "I hope the party doesn't go in that direction. Having a diversity of opinions is one thing. But some of what some of them think is beyond the pale. It's just outrageous."

Landsman wished Democratic leaders would speak out against controversial candidates and nominees.

"The fact that they won't even call it out, I think is an underlying current within the Democrat Party that they're scared of their own base," said Rep. Russell Fry (R-SC).

Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) is retiring after 32 years in Congress. She’s not aligned with her likely successor, Claire Valdez.

"So what do you make of some of the controversy about your prospective successor? And is that driving a wedge through the party?" yours truly asked Velazquez.

"Look, we are celebrating the outcome of this Supreme Court decision that reaffirm the fundamental principle of the Constitution that anyone born in this country is an American citizen," answered Velazquez, trying to change the subject.

"But do you have but did you not see things eye to eye with your prospective successor here?" I followed up.

Velazquez sighed.

"Look, she won and I wish her well. And I offered myself to sit down with her and discuss the transition. But this is how democracy works," said Velazquez.

Still, other Democrats believe the party can operate under a "big tent" and court voters.

"There's room for conversations about where we go. But we're not the party of one person or coalition and there's going to be those discussions about where we move forward," said Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-FL).

Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) asserted that wins by Democratic Socialists in New York City carried outsized weight. She also said that it was natural for the press corps to capitalize on possible divisions in the party.

"I think that you all try to stir it up. Stir up this language. Try to pit people against each other," said Dingell.

I asked Dingell about "controversial things" which Avila Chevalier peddled over the years.

"I don't have to agree with everything that she said. The Republicans are putting kerosene on the fire," said Dingell.

"Didn't she pour kerosene on it to start with?" I asked.

"Look, I wouldn't have said some of the things that she said. But I don't vote in New York. They do," answered Dingell.

SOCIALISM GOES WEST AS DSA-BACKED CHALLENGER OUSTS LONGTIME DEMOCRAT

Republicans are adamantly opposed to socialism. But in a weird way, the Democratic lurch left might actually help the GOP beat the historic odds and hold the House.

"They're a complete socialist party now," said Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC). "They’ve got to either own it or disassociate themselves from it."

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When the Beatles released Back In the USSR, American conservatives and right-wing reactionaries said this proved that the group harbored communist sentiments.

Now the American right says the Democratic party has turned to the left. Republicans say listen to the rhetoric of Democratic Socialists espousing their views. And to hear the GOP tell it, those candidates may as well be back in the USSR.

MLB drops hammer on Boston's Willson Contreras with hefty suspension after helmet-throwing incident

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 22:10:22 -0400

Major League Baseball handed down four suspensions Thursday in the aftermath of Tuesday night's benches-clearing brawl between the Washington Nationals and Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park.

Boston first baseman Willson Contreras and Washington starter Cade Cavalli each received seven-game suspensions and undisclosed fines for their roles in the fourth-inning altercation.

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The suspensions stemmed from an incident during Washington's 8-1 victory Tuesday, when Cavalli struck out Contreras looking on a full-count pitch and yelled, "Sit down, boy."

WATCH:

Contreras answered by charging the mound, then firing his batting helmet toward Cavalli, prompting both benches and bullpens to empty.

MLB also disciplined two players who left the dugout and became involved in a separate scuffle.

Nationals right-hander Miles Mikolas was suspended five games, while Red Sox outfielder Nate Eaton received a three-game ban. Both players were also fined undisclosed amounts and ejected during the game.

BREWERS PITCHER ABNER URIBE GETS A ONE-GAME SUSPENSION FOR CROTCH-CHOPPING CELEBRATION

All four suspensions are scheduled to begin Friday.

The Red Sox open a three-game series in Anaheim on Friday, while the Nationals host the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Boston figures to feel the impact more immediately. While Cavalli and Mikolas are likely to miss only one turn through the rotation, Contreras will be out of the Red Sox lineup for a full week.

Cavalli apologized Wednesday, saying he regretted using the word "boy" and now understands its historical weight. He added that the incident kept him awake that night because of the example he wants to set for young fans. Nationals officials also addressed the matter with the right-hander.

Contreras, meanwhile, entered Tuesday's game after an emotional stretch. The veteran first baseman had been ejected the previous night for arguing a checked-swing call and has also spoken publicly about the stress of devastating earthquakes in his home country of Venezuela.

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Any appeals would delay the suspensions until MLB's review process is complete.

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

Massachusetts city imposes curfew ahead of historic World Cup match

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:55:05 -0400

A Massachusetts city with one of the nation's largest Cape Verdean communities has imposed a temporary curfew ahead of Friday's historic World Cup match between the West African nation and Argentina.

The curfew will be in effect in Brockton, just south of Boston, from 10 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Saturday.

City officials said the decision follows recent World Cup celebrations that led to dangerous and unlawful behavior.

"World Cup celebrations have resulted in incidents of reckless driving, illegal street gatherings, vandalism, assaults, fireworks violations, disorderly conduct, and other criminal activities," the city said.

WATCH THE WORLD CUP FINAL ON FOX ONE

Brockton is home to one of the largest Cape Verdean communities in the United States, with nearly one in four residents identifying as Cape Verdean, according to local outlet The Enterprise.

Friday's match was expected to draw large celebrations, as the 2026 tournament marks the first time the African island nation has qualified for the FIFA World Cup.

Following previous World Cup matches, Brockton police said several people were injured in shootings that erupted during postgame celebrations, according to local outlet Boston 25 News — prompting city officials to impose the temporary curfew ahead of Friday's matchup.

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Under the curfew order, no one will be permitted to enter establishments serving alcohol after 7 p.m.

Patrons already inside will be allowed to remain until 10 p.m., but "last calls" for alcoholic beverages must end by 9:30 p.m.

The city said only limited exceptions to the curfew will be permitted.

Such cases include law enforcement officers and other first responders, individuals traveling directly to or from lawful employment, those seeking medical care, and those responding to emergencies.

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Brockton officials described the measure as a public safety measure intended to preserve public order.

"The purpose of this curfew is to protect public safety, reduce criminal activity associated with post-match celebrations, and enable police, fire, and emergency personnel to effectively maintain order and respond to emergencies," the city said.

"Residents and visitors are urged to celebrate responsibly, obey all laws, avoid unlawful gatherings, and cooperate with public safety officials to ensure that all World Cup celebrations remain peaceful and safe."

Fitness influencer pleads guilty in violent gym attack after beating man with weightlifting belt

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:51:41 -0400

Social media fitness influencer Wes Watson pleaded guilty Thursday to aggravated battery in connection with a confrontation at a Miami-Dade County gym, resolving the case ahead of sentencing later this month.

Watson, 42, entered the plea in Miami-Dade County court as part of a negotiated agreement with prosecutors. Under the deal, prosecutors recommended a sentence of 21 months in prison, including credit for time already served, followed by seven years of probation and court-ordered mental health treatment.

He is scheduled to be sentenced July 17.

Watson, a former prison inmate who built a large online following as a fitness influencer and motivational personality after his release, was charged after a Dec. 29, 2024, altercation at Elevation Fitness in Miami-Dade County.

FITNESS INFLUENCER SAYS LUFTHANSA TOLD HER SHE LOOKED ‘NAKED,’ FORCED HER TO ZIP UP BEFORE BOARDING FLIGHT

He has amassed millions of followers across social media, where he shares content focused on fitness, discipline, entrepreneurship and his life after prison.

According to an arrest affidavit, Watson told responding officers he was working out when the victim approached him and said he wanted to fight. Investigators said surveillance footage showed Watson striking the man with a weightlifting belt during the confrontation.

During Thursday's hearing, Watson's attorney argued the circumstances surrounding the incident were unusual, saying the alleged victim intentionally sought out his client because of Watson's online notoriety.

"There's been a lot that's been argued in this case about stand your ground," defense attorney Eric Clayman said, according to Local 10.

JETS' GENO SMITH UNDER ACTIVE INVESTIGATION IN FLORIDA FOR ALLEGED ASSAULT AT HIS HOME: POLICE

"What's unique is you have an alleged victim that sought somebody out because of his presence online. This guy bought a plane ticket, came through New Jersey, showed up at the gym for the sole purpose of confronting Mr. Watson. That turned into something else."

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The Miami-Dade case is separate from multiple pending felony cases Watson faces in neighboring Broward County. Prosecutors there have charged him with felony battery, aggravated assault, witness tampering and charges related to an alleged domestic violence incident involving his girlfriend. Those charges remain pending.

The Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for additional comment.

Driver charged with manslaughter after Tesla crashes into Texas home, kills grandmother

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:50:24 -0400

A Texas man has been charged with manslaughter after authorities said his Tesla crashed into a home last month, killing a 76-year-old grandmother.

According to court documents, Michael David Butler, 44, told investigators he was driving a Tesla Model 3 with a Tesla driver-assistance system engaged when it crashed into Martha Avila's home in Katy on June 19. He later told paramedics the vehicle was on "Autopilot," according to the affidavit. Tesla has disputed that account.

Avila was inside the residence when the vehicle crashed into the home. She was flown by Life Flight to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

CHARTER BUS DRIVER WHO ALLEGEDLY CAUSED CRASH KILLING 5 IN VIRGINIA CHARGED WITH INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER

Butler was arrested Thursday and charged with manslaughter, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office.

According to an arrest affidavit, Butler told investigators he was making a DoorDash delivery when he adjusted the music on the Tesla's touchscreen before he "passed out."

The affidavit alleges the vehicle reached 73 mph — more than double the posted speed limit — and that the brake pedal was not applied during the minutes leading up to the crash.

NASA NUCLEAR ENGINEER FOUND DEAD IN BURNED TESLA AFTER VANISHING FROM HIS ALABAMA HOME LAST YEAR

The sheriff's office said Butler failed to maintain a single lane before leaving the roadway and crashing through the side of the home.

Ring doorbell footage of the crash shows the vehicle slamming into the house at a high rate of speed.

According to the affidavit, Butler denied feeling ill or consuming alcohol or drugs before the crash.

'TESLA ROAD RAGE DRIVER' SENTENCED TO SEVEN YEARS IN PRISON AFTER ATTACKING MOTHER AND DAUGHTER IN HAWAII

Tesla has disputed Butler's account. CEO Elon Musk said a vehicle operating in Full Self-Driving mode would travel slowly through residential streets, while Tesla's head of AI, Ashok Elluswamy, said Butler manually overrode the system by fully depressing the accelerator.

"In this case, the driver manually overrode self-driving by pressing the accelerator all the way to 100% of the accel pedal in this residential area," he wrote in a post on X.

KHOU-TV reported Butler appeared in probable cause court Thursday, where his bail was set at $150,000. He was also ordered to wear an ankle monitor and not drive.

Avila's family sued Tesla last week, alleging her death resulted from the company's gross negligence and failure to warn consumers that its self-driving systems were defective.

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Fox News Digital has reached out to Tesla for comment.

Fox News Digital's Tessa Hoyos and Reuters contributed to this report.

Athletics prospect Ryan Lasko awaits feeling in lower half after C6-C7 spinal surgery following collision

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:45:06 -0400

A top Athletics outfield prospect still can’t feel his lower half after spinal surgery was needed to repair fractured vertebrae following a scary collision with a teammate in Double-A ball.

Ryan Lasko, a 24-year-old outfielder in the Athletics system, was injured during a game with Double-A Midland RockHounds after diving to catch a ball while playing center field.

The problem was Lasko’s right field teammate was also barreling down to catch the ball. They both gave up their bodies for the potential catch, but collided as they hit the turf.

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Lasko’s teammate, Devin Taylor, was able to get up and field the rolling ball that split the two defenders, but Lasko stayed on the ground in what was a pretty ugly crash.

After he was carted off , it was found that Lasko fractured his C6-C7 vertebra, according to MLB.com. He needed spinal decompression and stabilization surgery to repair the injury, and he was in stable condition.

However, due to swelling, Lasko still doesn’t have feeling in his lower half just yet.

REDS' DANE MYERS CARTED OFF FIELD AFTER CRASHING INTO WALL MAKING ACROBATIC CATCH VS BREWERS

Athletics manager Mark Kotsay discussed Lasko’s injury on Wednesday, saying that "there’s hope the feeling comes back."

Lasko is one of the Athletics’ top prospects, entering the season as the franchise’s No. 18 prospect, per MLB Pipeline. He was taken by the Athletics’ in the 2023 MLB Draft in the second round.

While he opened the season in Double-A, Lasko made it to Triple-A Las Vegas last season.

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This year, Lasko is slashing .209/.275/.360 with six home runs, five triples and 34 RBI.

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Karlie Kloss reveals what it's like navigating Trump family ties at dinner table as a Democrat

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:30:07 -0400

Supermodel Karlie Kloss defended the importance of bipartisan dialogue on Wednesday as she spoke about being part of President Donald Trump’s extended family.

Emily Chang of "The Circuit" via Bloomberg Originals spoke to the model, who is married to Joshua Kushner, the brother of Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, noting, "You're married to a man whose brother happens to be married to Ivanka Trump. How do you deal with everything that comes with that?"

"Well, I know who I am," Kloss replied. "I know the values that guide my life and the issues that I care about. So, you know, I haven't lost sight of who I am, but also, it's my husband's family."

PEREZ HILTON HEAPS PRAISE ON IVANKA TRUMP, TAKES SWIPE AT KARDASHIANS DURING APPEARANCE ON TOMI LAHREN'S SHOW

"What's conversation like at family dinners?" Chang asked.

"Well, we're sitting here in St. Louis, which is a blue dot in a red state," the model replied. "Since as long as I can remember, I've always been exposed to a lot of different political points of view and I think that trained me for my life."

She added further, "You know, I'm a Democrat. I think it's possible to have relationships with people who you politically don't align with, and I think this country has always been a place for, for dialogue. We have to be able to talk to each other."

MICHELLE OBAMA WARNS LIBERALS AGAINST PIGEONHOLING TRUMP VOTERS, SAYS THEY DIDN'T KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO

When asked whether she had ever actually met Trump himself or spoken to him about politics, the model revealed she has never met him.

In a 2019 interview with TIME Magazine, she offered a similar answer about balancing her life while being associated with such an influential family.

"It’s been hard," she told the outlet. "But I choose to focus on the values that I share with my husband, and those are the same liberal values that I was raised with and that have guided me throughout my life."

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Mexican national made knife from pens, tried stabbing passenger in the brain on Vegas-bound flight, DOJ says

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:07:31 -0400

A Mexican national who was granted lawful permanent resident status in 2018 pleaded guilty Thursday after admitting he bundled three pens together with hairbands before boarding a Seattle-to-Las Vegas flight, then tried to stab another passenger "through the eye to reach his brain," according to federal prosecutors.

The terrifying attack unfolded about 30 minutes before the plane was scheduled to land in Las Vegas, when Julio Alvarez Lopez allegedly left his seat, walked to the restroom and, after returning, suddenly began punching, hitting and stabbing a passenger seated across the aisle, according to a federal criminal complaint obtained by Fox News Digital.

Witnesses told investigators there was "blood everywhere" as the victim's wife screamed at Lopez to stop attacking her husband. During the struggle, the complaint says, she was struck while shielding the couple's 7-year-old son.

After the attack, Lopez "began walking towards the front of the aircraft," according to the complaint. As he moved up the aisle, a witness told investigators Lopez repeatedly yelled, "I'll only talk to the FBI."

CHAOS ERUPTS ON AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHT AS UNRULY PASSENGER ALLEGEDLY BITES FELLOW TRAVELER MIDAIR

A law enforcement officer aboard the flight ordered Lopez to sit down before flight attendants provided flex cuffs and passengers restrained him for the remainder of the flight, according to the complaint.

The flight landed safely at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, where officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department took Lopez into custody.

PASSENGER ALLEGEDLY BOARDS FLIGHT WITH FAKE BOARDING PASS, FORCING PLANE BACK TO GATE

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Nevada, Lopez pleaded guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in the alleged Jan. 24, 2024, attack.

During an interview with FBI agents and after waiving his Miranda rights, Lopez admitted he made the weapon before boarding the aircraft by bundling three pens together with hairbands, officials said.

Investigators said Lopez told them he believed the victim, identified in court documents as C.R., had been following him during the flight. Lopez also said he believed C.R. "was the Cartel" and that he was trying to get him to stop following him.

'HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER' ACTOR NICK PASQUAL CONVICTED OF ATTEMPTED MURDER FOR STABBING EX-GIRLFRIEND

The complaint further states Lopez told investigators he had never seen C.R. before the flight but "planned on attacking and killing him."

According to investigators, Lopez admitted he intended to kill the victim by stabbing him in the eye.

"I planned on attacking and killing him," Lopez told investigators, according to the complaint.

Lopez also admitted to investigators he was trying to stab C.R. "through the eye to reach C.R.'s brain to kill him."

According to prosecutors, the victim sustained injuries to his body and eye area that required stitches.

Court documents say witnesses noticed Lopez acting strangely before the attack. One passenger told investigators Lopez appeared "fidgety," repeatedly put gloves on and took them off, got into his backpack several times and avoided making eye contact with other passengers.

A witness described Lopez as having "gray/white hair tied in a bun on the top of his head," and wearing a sweatshirt at the time.

Another witness said Lopez stood up twice as the aircraft began descending into Las Vegas, went to the restroom, then returned to his seat before suddenly launching the attack.

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The complaint also states Lopez told investigators he was seeking asylum in the United States and believed the mafia had been chasing him for several months.

Lopez is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 22.

Democratic infighting grows as congresswoman exposes ‘disrespectful’ welcome of socialists into ‘big tent’

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:00:46 -0400

A deepening rift within the Democratic Party is coming into sharper focus as the establishment grows frustrated with the rising influence of the party’s socialist wing.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., called out her Democratic colleagues for their "disrespectful" welcome of socialists into the "big tent" party.

"I think that there are a lot of very disrespectful comments that are coming from some parts of the Democratic Party that are dismissing the voters who elected these individuals," Jayapal told CNN.

She made the comments as socialism gains ground within the Democratic Party, with socialist candidates securing major primary victories and unseating established Democrats.

RAHM EMANUEL WARNS NEW GENERATION OF DEM SOCIALISTS DON'T LIKE AMERICA

All three congressional candidates endorsed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani — Brad Lander, Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier — won their respective Democratic primaries, reflecting an increasing acceptance of the far-left movement within the party.

Jayapal, who serves as chair emerita of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, argued the victories show that Americans are seeking fiercer leadership.

DSA’S THIRD MAJOR PRIMARY WIN DEEPENS DEMOCRATS’ FIGHT OVER THE PARTY’S FUTURE

"I think people are sick and tired of the old establishment politics that too many Democrats were part of moving forward, and they're ready for something bolder," the Democratic representative said.

Jayapal raised concerns about the treatment of moderates compared with progressives within the "big tent" party, urging fairer treatment of the latter.

"Why is it that every time a moderate wins an election, people are like, ‘That's the new blueprint for the Democratic Party.’ But if a progressive or a Democratic socialist wins, ‘Oh, the whole party's falling to hell in a handbasket.’"

MS NOW HOST ACCUSES DEMOCRATIC SENATOR OF GASLIGHTING AFTER HE DODGED ON SOCIALIST'S POSTS

Jayapal slammed Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a prominent Democrat, saying he was "wrong" for arguing that some democratic socialists are engaging in performative politics.

She said Democrats must learn to understand what it means to be a "big tent" party.

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"I find it really insulting to say that Democratic socialists are just making noise," she told CNN.

"I think you have to ask, ‘Why is it that we've lost so many Democratic voters?’ In these races, where democratic socialists are winning, where progressives are winning, even in very tough swing states, it's because they are bringing voters back."

Dana White says Donald Trump wouldn't stop pushing to make the White House UFC event bigger

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:00:34 -0400

The UFC's Freedom 250 event at the White House was a total success.

And after putting on the most-watched UFC fight of all time, UFC chief Dana White is taking a victory lap.

White is prominently featured in the new Fox documentary, UFC Fight House: The Making of the Biggest Fight in History.

TRUMP MARKS 80TH BIRTHDAY WITH PATRIOTIC UFC FREEDOM 250 SPECTACLE ON WHITE HOUSE SOUTH LAWN

The UFC president visited "The Will Cain Show" on Thursday and broke down the massive success of the June 14 UFC festivities on the White House South Lawn.

WATCH:

Real UFC fans celebrated the incredible main event, while others marveled at the spectacular show staged right at the doorstep of the White House.

White told Cain that the reality of the situation surpassed anything Hollywood could dream up.

"If you wrote a script, you wouldn't believe all the things that happen in this thing," White said.

Clips from the show displayed President Donald Trump leading discussions during the early stage-building phase of the project.

The man's a builder.

Standing on the historic grounds before the fight, Trump mapped out the massive outdoor setup, looking to squeeze in as many seats as possible.

"You could have an arena of 8,000 right here, and then you could do something there nice, whether it's stand-up or seats, around the fountain. What do you think your maximum is?" Trump said in the clips.

Trump didn't beg; he demanded an impressive stage build on the lawn, even if the historic terrain presented unique obstacles.

"My concept was right smack at the front door to the White House, build it as big as you can, you know, we're a little confined because of trees and these beautiful plantings and everything else, so it's not easy," the president said during the planning.

Cain pointed out that having the president of the United States greasing the wheels definitely helped speed things along.

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White agreed, saying Trump helped lead the logistical challenge of pulling off the event.

"Well, he was the one that kept pushing us harder and harder to be able to get more seats and to get people in there," White said.

"[Trump] was pushing hard on that, and every time he would push, we would try to figure it out. But, I mean, we built basically a stadium on the South Lawn of the White House, and then I think what we did at The Ellipse is even more impressive.

"I mean everything that went into that and the amount of people that were over there."

According to the UFC, the Freedom 250 event shattered records as the most-watched domestic event in company history, racking up 34 million global viewers.

Also, an estimated 85,000 fans packed the Fan Fest at the Ellipse.

The most unbelievable moment of the entire event came down to the elements. White detailed a bizarre, almost miraculous weather event that saved the outdoor fight night just as things looked grim.

"Literally, the storm is coming to hit the White House and it breaks apart and goes around the White House and the Ellipse and continues on," White shared. "It's incredible, unbelievable, and it was an amazing night."

Things got off to a shaky start when a thunderstorm struck D.C. that fight weekend, pushing back the fighters' Friday night press conference at the Lincoln Memorial.

Ultimately, the high-stakes gamble paid off perfectly for everyone involved.

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"And battling the weather, the elements, you know, all the unknown, the event could not have gone better," White concluded.

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

'Milestone': Scientists claim to build synthetic cell, raising concerns in step toward artificial life

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:33:26 -0400

Scientists at the University of Minnesota say they have built the most life-like synthetic cell yet, creating a laboratory-made system assembled entirely from nonliving components that can grow, replicate its genetic material, divide and even pass beneficial traits to future generations.

The researchers describe the work as a major step toward building artificial life but said the synthetic cells cannot survive outside carefully controlled laboratory conditions and require externally supplied nutrients and specialized components to grow and divide.

Their findings were published Thursday as a preprint on bioRxiv, meaning the research has not yet undergone peer review.

SCIENTISTS UNVEIL 'LIVING BANDAGE' THAT COULD DRAMATICALLY SPEED WOUND HEALING

"One of the most ambitious and fascinating goals of bioengineering is to build a biochemical system that could cross the threshold from chemistry to life," the researchers wrote. They said the work demonstrates "the first minimal cell with a cell cycle, genetically encoded growth and division, all coupled to selection and competition."

The researchers call the synthetic cell "SpudCell." Unlike earlier approaches that started with living organisms, SpudCell was assembled from chemically defined, nonliving components.

Its 90,000-base-pair genome enables the synthetic cell to produce proteins, replicate its DNA, feed, grow and divide into daughter cells.

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Researchers also introduced a genetic mutation that allowed some synthetic cells to grow faster than others. After several generations, those faster-growing cells produced more offspring and became increasingly common in the population, demonstrating a basic form of natural selection.

The team said the work represents "key milestones towards construction of synthetic life" and could eventually provide a foundation for "fully artificial organisms" designed for biotechnology applications.

Still, the researchers acknowledged that the system remains far less capable than even the simplest living cells. The synthetic cells cannot survive outside laboratory conditions, require externally supplied nutrients and specialized components and rely on ribosomes purified from E. coli bacteria. After five generations, researchers found that only about 30% of daughter cells inherited the complete synthetic genome.

SCIENTISTS UNVEIL 'LIVING BANDAGE' THAT COULD DRAMATICALLY SPEED WOUND HEALING

Those limitations mean the work falls well short of creating self-sustaining artificial life, but researchers said it demonstrates that many of life's defining characteristics can be recreated from nonliving materials.

The researchers also acknowledged that increasingly sophisticated synthetic cells could raise new biosafety and biosecurity questions.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the University of Minnesota research team for comment on the matter.

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"This project offers a significant milestone towards evolvability of synthetic cells, making it more likely that more robust, autonomous systems will be available soon," the authors wrote, adding that the progress "highlights the urgent need to develop a safety and security framework for future synthetic cell engineering."

Future work, the researchers said, will focus on making synthetic cells more self-sufficient by regenerating more of their own molecular machinery, improving how genomes are distributed during cell division and allowing mutations to arise naturally rather than being introduced by researchers.

Couple publicly caned after alleged TikTok kiss sparks outrage in Indonesia

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:31:39 -0400

A young couple in Indonesia was publicly caned Thursday after allegedly kissing during a TikTok livestream.

The couple — a 22-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman — each received 21 lashes, according to The Associated Press.

They were reportedly convicted of violating local morality laws under an Islamic Sharia court in Indonesia’s conservative Aceh province.

The pair, who were detained in March, had already spent four months in prison prior to the punishment, which ultimately reduced their sentence from 25 lashes to 21, the AP said.

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According to local authorities, the couple filmed a TikTok video inside a car one night in March.

As the video went viral, they were subsequently apprehended for what officials described as an "immoral act."

"Their actions were uncovered thanks to reports from residents who were disturbed by their immoral livestream content," Sharia police said in April.

"The trigger was their livestream on TikTok while engaging in immoral acts in the car," Head of the Sharia Police Muhammad Rizal added in his statement. "This sparked criticism from netizens and local residents, who then reported them to the authorities."

THREE HIKERS KILLED AFTER CLIMBING RESTRICTED INDONESIAN VOLCANO TO CREATE ONLINE CONTENT, POLICE SAY

The court also confiscated a cellphone and a USB flash drive containing the TikTok video, which authorities promised to destroy, according to the AP.

A Banda Aceh resident who attended the caning, 22-year-old Aini Nadhirah, said she believed the punishment was "entirely justified."

"In my opinion, this caning is entirely justified because it serves as a warning to other Aceh residents to be more careful when using social media," Nadhirah said, according to the AP.

"It also raises awareness that such actions are unacceptable, thereby educating the public."

STUNNING PHOTOS CAPTURE MOMENT ONE OF INDONESIA'S MOST ACTIVE VOLCANOES ERUPTS

Aceh is the only province in Muslim-majority Indonesia that enforces its own Islamic Criminal Code governing moral conduct.

The province’s right to implement Islamic law was granted by Indonesia’s secular central government around 2005 as part of a peace deal to end a separatist insurgency. The policy was later expanded to apply to non-Muslims.

Under the law, moral offenses — including adultery and same-sex relations — can carry penalties of up to 100 lashes. Caning is also used for individuals accused of gambling, drinking, adultery and premarital intimacy.

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Public caning in Aceh has long drawn criticism from human rights groups, including Amnesty International Indonesia, which has called the practice cruel and degrading.

Despite Indonesia having ratified international conventions prohibiting cruel punishment, authorities in Aceh defend the practice, arguing it does not fall under such a definition.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

The unwinnable war America's Founding Fathers fought and won changed human history forever

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:00:51 -0400

Two hundred and fifty ago, 56 men met in the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia to commit treason against the most powerful empire on Earth.

Representing 13 colonies of that empire, these men – a mix of landowners, entrepreneurs, politicians and others – had become enamored with a new set of ideas flowing from enlightenment thinkers and Christian teaching. Those convictions led them to start a war no sane person believed they could win.

Remember what government looked like back then. We now live in the world those 56 men created – a world in which even dictatorships like North Korea cloak themselves in the language of "republic."

But in 1776, freedom, equality and self-governance were nascent concepts espoused by philosophers and adopted only incompletely in a few small enclaves. The vast majority of countries in the world were hereditary monarchies and empires under which equal rights and individual liberty were not contemplated. The Founders’ fight seemed incomprehensible.

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In launching it, the Second Continental Congress largely tasked one man – Thomas Jefferson – with drafting the document that would articulate their vision for humanity and this new country and reshape history.

Imagine how he must have felt. Jefferson secluded himself from June 11 to June 28 in a rented home on Market Street to draft the document. He was 33 years old at the time. In isolation in that rented townhome he drafted what I think is one of the most beautiful passages in history:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Read it again. Read it as if you were living under a Spanish colony in South America or under the iron fist of the Qing dynasty in China. Read it as if you were a poor tenant farmer under the oppressive rule of King George in Virginia or an enslaved person in Georgia (whose freedom under the principles of the Declaration was still decades away).

WHY THE MAGA MOVEMENT IS THE 1776 REVOLUTION OF OUR TIME

Read it as if you grew up in a system that assumed you were worth less than your neighbor by virtue of your social station, and under which your future was limited by the circumstances of your birth.

The Declaration was, in fact, a "revolutionary" statement articulating the ideological and factual basis for a coup against empire. But spiritually, it was more important than that.

It was a revolution against history. It was a revolution against the idea that some men (and women) are worth more than others. It was a revolution for the idea of dignity, human rights, and equality before law.

And when Jefferson submitted his document to the Congress, and those 56 men signed it and shipped it off to King George and to others rulers around the world, they ignited a war in the America colonies that would become a centuries-long war to transform the globe from tyranny to liberty.

READ: THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

War they got. Five of the signers were captured, tortured and killed. Nine died from wounds or hardships fighting in the war. All were impacted – raked by violence, their homes and property ravaged, their children thrust into the violence they created. They starved. They lost battles.

They must have wondered if it was worth it – these ideals that had caused them to plunge a nation into violence. And then, unexpectedly, they won.

In creating America, those Founding Fathers reshaped history. We now live in a world in which nearly half of countries are democracies. The combination of political freedom, free markets and the technological innovation unleashed by those systems has lifted billions of people out of poverty – creating a world more than 100 times richer than the one that existed at the time of the Declaration of Independence.

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The dominant ideology now globally is the one articulated in the Declaration. And the revolution in America has become a revolution in human history.

This weekend in the United States we celebrate Independence Day. We celebrate 56 men who risked everything. But we also solemnly reflect on the charge of the Declaration and its authors.

All people are created equal. We are all endowed by our Creator with inalienable rights. Each of us deserves life, liberty, and the ability to pursue our own unique paths to flourishing. But those inalienable rights are not guaranteed. As our forebears, we are called to embrace and fight for them.

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Abraham Lincoln once noted that great men "thirst and burn for distinction" and will have it, "whether at the expense of emancipating slaves, or enslaving free men." And around the world the powers that oppose liberty, dignity and opportunity fight ceaselessly to dominate others.

May we, on this Independence Day, marking America's 250th, fight back. May we have the audacity and conviction to oppose the enemies of liberty and to continue to fight for the promise of the Declaration and America’s spiritual foundation. May we do so out of love – for our neighbors and for the blessings of the Creator. And may we gain courage from the example of those 56 men, their hundreds of thousands of compatriots, and the unwinnable war they won. Happy Independence Day.

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