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Progressive Dems' full-throated Platner endorsements come back to haunt them after rape allegations

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:15:02 -0400

After Maine U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner was accused of drunkenly raping a woman, a litany of progressive Democrats are tucking tail and heading for the hills as their ringing endorsements of the continuously embattled candidate come back to haunt them.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., said at an April rally that Platner is, "My kind of man."

She issued a statement Monday night after allegations emerged that Platner drunkenly raped 41-year-old Maine resident Jenny Racicot in 2021.

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

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

WATCH: DEM SENATORS EXCUSE PLATNER'S CONDUCT AT CRISIS HUDDLE WITH EMBATTLED MAINE CANDIDATE

A spokesperson for Warren did not answer specific questions about whether the senator regretted backing Platner, who has not dropped out of the race as of Tuesday morning, through his numerous prior scandals.

Progressives supported Platner despite a months-long series of damning scandals, including the revelation that the candidate had a Nazi-linked tattoo on his chest. He was also exposed for infidelity to his wife, making lewd Reddit comments about masturbating in portable toilets on a now-deleted account and mocking a Purple Heart veteran.

He also faced accusations last month of physical misconduct and violence against an ex-girlfriend who was then smeared as a conservative political operative.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., has so far been silent on the rape allegations. In a June statement, he said he would "do everything I can to make sure that Graham Platner is the next Senator from the state of Maine." That could now be put to the test.

The left-wing commentariat played a massive role in propping Platner up.

Fox News Digital reached out to Sanders' office for comment, but did not hear back at time of publishing.

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

Former Obama aides Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer and Tommy Vietor, who now host the "Pod Save America" podcast, were chief among those supporting Platner's rise in the Democratic Party.

"Graham Platner isn't just our best and only chance to beat Susan Collins, he's a good, decent man who's struggled and grown and is always trying to do better," Favreau said on X in April, well after the Reddit post and Nazi tattoo scandals.

Favreau changed his tune Monday night.

"Platner needs to drop out ASAP - these are awful, credible allegations," he posted. "Said on the pod after the (also credible) June NYT story that his biggest problem going forward would be credibility. It's now abundantly clear that he just hasn't been honest about his past and can't be trusted as a candidate for office."

Vietor defended Platner after Rep. Jake Auchincloss, D-Mass., who is Jewish, condemned the candidate's Nazi-linked tattoo and Reddit posts as "disqualifying" in May.

SANDERS CAUGHT ON CAMERA SNAPPING AT REPORTER OVER PLATNER’S POSTS: ‘GET A BETTER JOB’

"Have you called or met with him to discuss it?" Vietor asked Auchincloss on X.

Vietor had also interviewed Platner after those scandals.

But he, too, reversed course on Monday night.

"This story is really bad, well-documented and credible, and obviously the right course of action for Platner is to drop out as soon as possible so that Maine democrats can get a replacement on the ballot," he said.

Pfeiffer followed suit.

"The allegations against Graham Platner are well-documented, very credible, and highly disturbing. He should drop out ASAP," he said, on X.

Lovett didn't make a statement, but posted a clip of Monday's episode of "Pod Save America," where despite his apology, Vietor jumped straight back to politics and remarked that he was, "very worried now about the prospect of winning this seat" but said the Democratic Party, "could ultimately be in a stronger place politically."

Fox News Digital reached out to Crooked Media, the parent company of "Pod Save America," but did not hear back.

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

Some not only failed to condemn Platner, but instead took offensive positions.

"Graham Platner may drop out. (I hope he doesn't, but.) Meanwhile, the Abuser in Chief just keeps on keepin' on," author Stephen King wrote on X, referring to allegations against President Donald Trump over the years.

King followed-up with another post claiming everyone in politics in Washington, D.C. is corrupt.

"Tell you what--if you knew the whole truth about everyone in the Senate and House of Reps, those chambers would be dead empty. Jesus said, 'Let him without sin cast the first stone.'"

Far-left media personality Cenk Uygur of The Young Turks spent much of Monday blaming everyone but Platner for the scandal, including the media and the "Israeli lobby."

"Congratulations to national media on politically assassinating Graham Platner," he said in one post. "If he drops out and Democratic Party tries to give us two candidates who are both for Israel and corporate pacs [sic], they'll face a revolt like they've never seen. Days of bull---- false choices are over."

Fox News Digital reached out to Uygur.

Ryan Grim, formerly of The Intercept, spent ages defending Platner online.

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"Democrats need people like Platner if they are going to come to terms with the true nature of our country, with what we have done to people at home and abroad, and pull together the coalition needed to heal and reshape it," he said in a June post regarding an opinion piece that promoted Platner.

He reported on X Monday night that Platner "lost his base," but did not address the rape allegations or his support for the candidate directly.

Grim did not return a Fox News Digital comment request.

Others prominent Democrats who abandoned the Platner ship include Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Chair Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.

Kingmaker Mamdani calls on Platner to 'drop out of the race' after rape allegation

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:00:08 -0400

Maine Democratic candidate Graham Platner has lost another high-profile progressive from his corner: New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Mamdani, during a press conference on Tuesday with New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, was asked about Platner's race and his own role as an ascendant figure within the Democratic Party after a clean sweep of primary elections where his endorsed candidates toppled Democratic incumbents last month.

"I believe that it's time for him to drop out of the race," Mamdani said. "And when it comes to my own endorsements, I've made eight endorsements at the state and federal level. They've all been right here in New York City. I'm incredibly excited at the fact that they won their races, and that's where my focus is for now."

PLATNER'S PAPER TIGER PROGRESSIVE COALITION CRUMBLES AFTER BOMBSHELL RAPE ALLEGATION

When further pressed on whether Platner’s campaign would have an impact on the broader progressive movement, Mamdani declined to weigh in.

"I think the focus of today should be on the campaign coming to a close, and I think there will be many more days to have conversations about what it means beyond that," he said.

DEMOCRATS ABANDON EMBATTLED CANDIDATE GRAHAM PLATNER AFTER RAPE ALLEGATION IMPLODES SENATE BID

Mamdani, who never endorsed Platner’s campaign, is the latest progressive to disavow him in an ever-growing list of Democrats across the country rushing to call on him to exit the Maine Senate race after a bombshell report that detailed an alleged rape of an ex-girlfriend, Jenny Racicot.

Notable about Mamdani’s disconnect from Platner are the connections the two share — the growing face of the Democratic Party and the scandal-plagued candidate shared top aides, including Morris Katz, a key strategist in Mamdani’s insurgent mayoral campaign and victory.

FETTERMAN DEMANDS BERNIE SANDERS APOLOGIZE FOR BACKING ALLEGED 'PREDATOR' GRAHAM PLATNER IN MAINE SENATE RACE

Platner so far has not announced an end to his campaign, but said in a video statement moments after the report dropped that he was "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward for the state that I love, the people that I love, the movement I belong to and the goal of defeating Susan Collins."

Several progressive candidates running for Senate, who previously kept mum on Platner’s scandals, have demanded he pull the plug on his campaign. Those include James Talarico in Texas and Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan.

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Nearly all of his congressional endorsements have evaporated, too, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., the chair of Senate Democrats’ campaign arm, calling for him to "immediately withdraw."

Notably silent, however, is Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Platner’s staunchest ally and supporter in Washington, D.C., who has campaigned in Maine with him and most recently defended him after another scandal broke last month over his alleged "unsettling" behavior with women.

Extremist streamer sparks outrage after declaring NYC an ‘Islamic Republic’

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:30:41 -0400

A streamer who broadcasts to more than 1 million followers on a popular online platform set off a viral firestorm after invoking Mayor Zohran Mamdani's name as he declared Islam would take over New York City.

"Allahu Akbar!" the extremist internet personality Sneako yelled amidst a group of Egypt soccer fans while drums were banged and horns were blown. Egyptian flags waved among the crowd as they chanted along.

Sneako, whose real name is Nicolas Kenn De Balinthazy, has been described as a provocateur and palled around with the online antisemitic far-right during his rise to social media stardom. Before that, he was all-in on his support for the political far-left and supported the presidential campaign of socialist Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., in 2016. He reportedly converted to Islam in 2023.

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But Friday night, after Egypt dethroned Australia in the World Cup, he may have made his most controversial splash yet while live broadcasting on the streets of New York City on the video streaming platform Kick.

Mockingly wiping tears from his eyes, Sneako said, "Oh no, oh no. F--- you!"

"This is the Islamic Republic of New York-istan," he continued. "Islam will be in every household. Inshallah the whole world will be Muslim."

"Welcome to Mamdani's New York. You see this city? You see how it looks? Inshallah, your city looks just like this too," he shouted among the crowd.

MAMDANI BLASTS ICE AGENTS, ELON MUSK AND 'SUPREMACY' IN AMERICA 250 SPEECH AHEAD OF JULY 4 WEEKEND

"Inshallah" is Arabic for "God willing," and "Allahu Akbar" is Arabic for "God is great."

Mamdani is the first Muslim mayor of New York.

The clip of Sneako quickly circulated on the web, garnering tens of millions of views across platforms including Instagram and X, while thousands of people slammed him for the pronouncement.

PRO-ISRAEL INFLUENCER EMILY AUSTIN SAYS ZOHRAN MAMDANI REACHED OUT TO CO-HOST FIFA EVENT

One of the sharpest replies came from Rob O'Neill, the Navy SEAL who killed Osama bin Laden in an early morning raid on the terrorist's compound in 2011.

"These guys sound WAY different when you wake them up at 2am," he said.

A pair of massive personalities on X, who have a history of bad blood, even teamed up to demand a harsh punishment for the streamer.

"Deport him NOW!!!" conspiracy theorist Alex Jones said in reply to the clip, which elicited a response from X owner and former Jones opponent Elon Musk.

"Yes," Musk simply replied.

When Musk purchased X — then Twitter — and vowed the return of free speech to the platform, Jones had been permanently suspended. At first, Musk was hesitant to reinstate Jones given the Sandy Hook controversy that surrounded the radio show host. Eventually, however, Musk relented.

One X user labeled the streamer as a "Disgusting creature."

"Send this dude to Iran if he hates America so much," said another.

Sneako appeared to cryptically address the controversy in a post of his own on X Sunday night.

"Every knee will bow," he posted. "Every tongue confess."

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On Monday, he took a shot at Musk for echoing Jones' deportation post.

"Go back to Africa," he told Musk, who is native to South Africa. "This is my country."

Mamdani's office did not return Fox News Digital's request for comment on Sneako's comments.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to clarify the headline language. "Allahu Akbar" is a common Islamic expression meaning "God is great," though it has also been invoked by extremists during terrorist attacks.

New York Times under scrutiny over Graham Platner coverage as accusers speak out against paper

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:42:26 -0400

The New York Times is facing scrutiny over the growing scandal plaguing Democratic Maine Senate hopeful Graham Platner, as some have questioned what its reporters knew, and one of his past accusers insists the paper didn’t work to corroborate her story.

Politico published a bombshell report Monday on one of Platner's exes alleging he sexually assaulted her during their relationship. Jenny Racicot claimed that in 2021, a drunk Platner entered her home uninvited and had sex with her despite her repeatedly telling him to stop. Platner has firmly denied the allegations, which Racicot has said constituted rape.

Racicot was one of the women interviewed in the Times' report last month about Platner's "unsettling" behavior. According to the Times, Racicot described "positive memories" she had with Platner but said he "does not respect women" based on comments he made that had surfaced. The report also appeared to allude to Racicot's sexual assault allegation.

DEMOCRATS ABANDON EMBATTLED CANDIDATE GRAHAM PLATNER AFTER RAPE ALLEGATION IMPLODES SENATE BID

"Ms. Racicot also said that in 2021 he arrived at her house drunk, after she had asked him not to come over. She declined to elaborate, but said she cut off contact soon after that episode and found his behavior 'reckless' and 'unsettling,'" the Times wrote.

That paragraph was buried roughly 70 paragraphs into the exposé, and much of the story focused on the conservative politics of another Platner ex-girlfriend, Lyndsey Fifield, who had her own allegations of domestic abuse.

However, Racicot told Politico that she did tell The New York Times about her assault claim off the record, not that she declined to elaborate. She said she told the Times she didn't want to go public because she didn't wish to be known as a rape victim.

"My part of the story was just a read-over," Racicot told Politico about the Times report. "And the story was Lyndsey, and the accusations of her being politically motivated."

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

According to longstanding journalistic practices, anything that's said off the record by a source, and the request is agreed to by a reporter, should not be reported. Yet conservatives on social media are still accusing the Gray Lady of trying to run defense for Platner.

"The Times had this. They chose to bury it 30 paragraphs deep under a novel about Lyndsey‘s professional background," writer Bethany Mandel responded.

"Total journalistic malpractice," Mandel continued. "Of course another outlet was going to finish the job that the Times chose to catch and kill."

Fifield, who is active in conservative circles, was accused by some left-wing media members of being an unreliable accuser because of her political views.

FOX NEWS POLL: MAINE SENATE RACE IS TIGHT, WITH CONCERNS ABOUT BOTH CANDIDATES

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Public Affairs Director Joe Simonson wrote, "It’s not just that the MSM is merely disgracefully partisan — often shirking basic editorial standards for partisan gain — it’s that their colleagues behave like mafia members. They keep their mouths shut when things such as this happen. Can’t ever attack one of their own."

The Times was accused of burying the lede, downplaying the allegations of "absolutely disgusting" behavior, and journalist John Daniel Davison even added, "The NYT tried to protect Platner. Which is really the least surprising aspect of this entire thing."

Daily Wire top editor Brent Scher called it a "major embarrassment" for the Times.

"Racicot already talked to them, and was so disappointed that she went to @politico and @CNN. Because the NYT made Lyndsey and her politics the story instead of Platner, and let his comms team shape the whole thing," Scher wrote.

GRAHAM PLATNER ACCUSER HITS NYT FOR ALLEGEDLY SOFTENING ALLEGATIONS, SAYS COVERAGE WAS 'GIFT' TO DEMOCRAT

Notably, Fifield previously claimed that, in an effort to get her to go on the record, the Times put her in contact with other women who Platner allegedly abused and who the Times said would be in the story. But when the story was published, Fifield wrote, these women were nowhere to be found.

"After the story went up I began to ask them… wait, where are the stories from the other women? Where are their accusations of sexual assault? Why am I the focus? Why are there 11 paragraphs dedicated to detailing my work history (more than has been published about Graham’s by far)?" she wrote on X last month.

Fifield continued to unload on the New York Times on Tuesday morning after the Politico report forced many Democrats to abandon the embattled Senate candidate, who has not dropped out of the race to unseat Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine.

"I actually understand why Democrat leaders didn't take our stories seriously when the Times reported them in June but are taking them seriously now. It was by design. The line most shared from the piece was the claim that the Times ‘could not corroborate’ my story despite talking to two of my friends. I gave them the contact information for five friends. They called the two who I clarified would not know about the abuse but would be able to affirm our relationship timeline, events, etc. They simply did not call the other three," Fifield wrote, noting that she provided information for several other people who could confirm her story.

"As the weeks dragged on I stopped trying to give them evidence because the amount I had already given them seemed to overwhelm them and I thought it meant they clearly had more than enough to verify my every claim," she continued. "But tell me again how they ‘could not corroborate.’"

One of Fifield's friends came forward, noting that the newspaper's reporters never contacted her.

"I was one of those friends. The Times never contacted me," Emily Zanotti wrote on X. "Other reporters now have. I'm not hard to get ahold [sic] of, by the way."

The New York Times did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

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"We published accounts provided by several women who were in romantic relationships with Graham Platner. Our story accurately presents each of these accounts as told to our reporters and according to our standards. We stand by our reporting of the accounts from Ms. Fifield and the other women, who provided a revealing look at the behavior of a major candidate for the U.S. Senate," a Times spokesperson previously told Fox News Digital.

Fox News Digital's Robert McGreevy contributed to this report.

Fun fact: Some sea slugs steal chloroplasts and use sunlight to survive longer

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 14:25:51 -0400

Scroll through the slideshow and be amazed

Prince Harry's UK trip off to rocky start after first major setback

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:29:26 -0400

Prince Harry is facing another setback since arriving in the U.K., the latest development in what has already been a turbulent trip.

On July 7, the Duke of Sussex lost his yearslong lawsuit against Associated Newspapers Limited, the publisher of the Daily Mail and the Mail on Sunday.

Harry and six other claimants, including Elton John and Elizabeth Hurley, lost their privacy case against the publisher. The U.K.'s High Court dismissed their claims after finding the claimants had failed to prove their allegations of unlawful information gathering.

PALACE AIDES 'DON'T TRUST' PRINCE HARRY ALONE WITH KING CHARLES, EXPERTS SAY

The decision comes as Harry is already navigating renewed scrutiny during his latest visit to Britain.

"Associated Newspapers welcomes today's judgment, which is an overwhelming victory for the Daily Mail and its journalists, and for a free press generally," a spokesperson for Associated Newspapers said in a statement.

"This is a magnificent vindication of the Daily Mail's journalism."

"For some of the most outrageous allegations made when the case was launched in a blaze of publicity four years ago — placing bugs in people's cars and homes, listening to calls as they were made and illicitly accessing bank accounts — no credible evidence was ever presented," the statement read.

WATCH: KING CHARLES WENT ‘ABOVE AND BEYOND’ FOR PRINCE HARRY: EXPERT

"As we said at the time, these allegations were 'lurid' and 'preposterous,' and were a fishing expedition by the claimants and their legal teams in a politically motivated campaign to muzzle the free press. The reputations of our decent and hardworking journalists were terribly impugned, and today they have been exonerated. As the judgment clearly shows, every single article was legitimately sourced."

Fox News Digital reached out to Archewell, which oversees the offices of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, for comment.

Harry and the other claimants sued over alleged privacy violations dating from the early 1990s through the 2010s. They claimed the U.K. tabloids engaged in the "clear, systematic and sustained use of unlawful information gathering" for two decades, according to attorney David Sherborne.

Associated Newspapers denied the allegations, calling them "preposterous." The publisher said the roughly 50 articles at issue were based on legitimate sources, including acquaintances willing to talk about their famous friends.

Harry previously said private information attributed to "sources" and "friends" fueled his suspicion that people close to him were leaking details to journalists.

"This is a huge setback for Prince Harry, especially since he was the lead claimant among the seven claimants," royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told Fox News Digital. "It is also clear that he did not choose his friends and acquaintances wisely."

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"With his visit already mired in chaos, he won’t elicit public sympathy," Fitzwilliams warned.

In January, Harry testified in London's High Court that the coverage made him "paranoid beyond belief" and claimed the outlet wanted to "drive me to drugs and drinking to sell more papers."

At one point on the witness stand, Harry fought back tears as he spoke about his wife, Meghan Markle. He told the High Court the Daily Mail made Meghan's life "an absolute misery."

Harry said the idea that he isn't entitled to a private life is "disgusting," adding that the legal fight has been another "horrible experience" for him and his family.

In a witness statement obtained by People magazine, Harry said he decided to pursue legal action after what he described as "vicious" and "sometimes racist" coverage of Meghan following the start of their relationship in 2016. He said the attacks intensified during Meghan's pregnancy and after the birth of their son, Prince Archie.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior royals in 2020, citing intense media scrutiny and a lack of support from the palace. They relocated to California.

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The ruling adds to what has already been a turbulent trip to Britain for the Duke of Sussex.

On July 6, Harry's spokesperson told People magazine that an offer for the Duke of Sussex to stay at Buckingham Palace during his London visit was withdrawn after he had formally accepted it.

However, palace sources disputed that account, saying Harry failed to respond by the deadline and that his later acceptance came only after arrangements could no longer be made.

Harry had also hoped to bring his wife and their two young children to Britain for the first time since 2022. But after learning the family would receive police protection only while on royal property — and not throughout the visit — it was reported on July 4 that Harry decided they would not accompany him.

On July 6, the prince arrived alone in the U.K. He is expected to be there through July 11. It is unclear whether he will meet with his father or whether his family will join him later in the week.

Harry has also been denied restoration of taxpayer-funded security by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (RAVEC).

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People magazine reported that Harry's team spent several days exploring ways to make the visit safe through enhanced private security arrangements. Palace sources claimed Harry initially declined the invitation to stay at a royal residence before accepting it on Saturday.

Harry has launched a series of lawsuits against the British press in recent years. He and Meghan previously received a symbolic £1, or $1.36, in damages from the Mail on Sunday after winning Meghan’s legal case against the paper for publishing a personal letter she wrote to her father, Thomas Markle, in 2018.

World Cup Round of 16 betting guide with Argentina, Colombia and the corners market leading the way

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:28:16 -0400

Well, that one didn't go the way we wanted, did it?

Team USA barely showed up last night as Belgium took them down 4-1. For America, this year will go down as the World Cup in which the team improved, but still has a long way to go. Many will look at this year as a step forward and an impressive run. Others will look at the game against Belgium and say that this team is clearly a step below most of the better countries. No matter how you look at it, I think it was at least a fun watch for all of us.

Argentina vs. Egypt

After today, there will only be eight teams remaining in the tournament, and a handful of games remaining in the World Cup. We still have the favorites alive with France already advancing, and Argentina looking to move on today. Argentina has yet to lose a game, but they didn't have a very tough path to this point. They opened the World Cup with a 3-0 win over Algeria and then beat Austria 2-0.

Jordan finally scored a goal against them, but still lost 3-1. Their toughest match was against Cape Verde in the previous round. It was a fantasitc game where the small country of 525,000 stayed alive every time Argentina would score. Even in extra time, they matched an Argentina goal. Still, the Argentinians prevailed with a 3-2 win.

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

Egypt has had a tough route, but they also haven't lost a game. They started the tournament with a draw against Belgium. As we've seen, Belgium is a fairly strong competitor. Then, beat New Zealand 3-1 in the second game, before playing Iran to a draw in the third. In the Round of 32, the team took Australia to a draw before winning via penalty kicks.

I think this game sees a lot of attacks from Argentina, but Egypt will probably block a lot of them. This normally leads to corners. I also expect Argentina to block a lot of the Egypt attacks after the tough game against Cape Verde. I think the smart play today is to take the over 8.5 corners for the game.

Switzerland vs. Colombia

This game should be a little more competitive and difficult for the teams to pull off a victory. Looking back at Switzerland's path to get here, I don't really see all that difficult of a path. They started with a surprising draw against Qatar. Then they beat Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1, and they took down Canada 2-1 in the Group Stage. In the Round of 32, they played Algeria and won that game with relative ease. Now they have to take down one of the better teams remaining.

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Colombia is looking to advance to the final eight teams in the World Cup with a win today. They didn't have an overly difficult path to get here, either. They beat Uzbekistan easily in the opener, 3-1, and then beat Congo-DR 1-0 in their second game. They played Portugal to a draw in a game that didn't have much impact on their advancement.

In the Round of 32, they were able to escape with a 1-0 win over Ghana. I don't expect this to be a high-scoring match, but I do think both teams could score. However, when push comes to shove, I think the right path is to take Colombia to advance at -155. It is a bit pricey, but this protects us in case they go to extra time or penalties. Give me Colombia to advance.

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For more sports betting information and plays, follow David on X/Twitter: @futureprez2024

Chris Hansen urges parents to teach children about online predators before allowing internet access

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:26:34 -0400

Investigative journalist Chris Hansen issued a stark warning to parents Tuesday, urging them to prepare their children for the dangers of online predators and sextortion before allowing them access to the internet.

"Kids hate to be tricked, and you have to tell them there are adults online who like to trick kids. You don't wanna be tricked," he told the "Hang Out With Sean Hannity" podcast.

"Don't talk to anybody online who you don't know in real life. Start there."

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During the latest episode with Sean Hannity, the longtime "To Catch a Predator" host discussed the growing threat of sextortion and recalled conversations with families whose teenage sons were targeted by scammers posing as young women online.

Hansen said predators lure boys into sending explicit photos before demanding money and threatening to release the images publicly.

"They get caught up in the moment because kids' identity is so tightly tied to their social media presence," Hansen said.

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"They can't live with the thought of this getting out there or them being embarrassed, and they end up taking their own lives."

Hansen also discussed what parents can do to protect their children online, the warning signs families often miss and why he believes early conversations about internet safety can save lives.

He said parents need to have discussions with their children the "very moment" they have access to the digital world.

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"At the end of the day, it's the parent... and you have to sit down with your child at a very early age, at the... moment they're on the internet," he said.

The full interview is available on iHeart, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.

Laysla De Oliveira teases ‘Lioness’ season 3 debut with behind-the-scenes photos

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:20:58 -0400

"Lioness" fans are getting some more looks at the upcoming season.

The hit CIA/military series from Taylor Sheridan has been one of the most entertaining shows on TV ever since it premiered in July 2023.

The gritty and violent drama shines a light on the world of black ops, and while it's clearly dramatized, the tone of the show is very realistic.

TAYLOR SHERIDAN'S HIT CIA/MILITARY SERIES GETS MAJOR UPDATE AHEAD OF NEW SEASON PREMIERE

Now, fans are getting a better idea of what's coming.

'Lioness' star shares look at new season

Season three of "Lioness" premieres Aug. 2 on Paramount+, and the buzz and hype around the series is significant.

It makes sense. Everything Taylor Sheridan touches turns to entertainment gold, and "Lioness" is among his best works.

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Well, fans are now getting a look behind the curtain of the new season. Star Laysla De Oliveira jumped on Instagram on Monday to share a photo dump from behind the scenes of season three.

Check it out below, and let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com. "Lioness" fans will see a lot of familiar faces.

The trailer for season three is also absolutely electric. You can check it out below if you haven't already seen it.

TAYLOR SHERIDAN SAYS HE DOESN'T CARE WHAT CRITICS THINK, ADMITS TO 'RAGE BAITING' THEM ON PURPOSE

Admittedly, I am a huge "Lioness" fan and a huge fan of black ops and special operations. It's almost like Sheridan cooked up the series in a lab for guys like me.

The first two seasons were nothing short of excellent. The season two premiere featured one of the best sequences I've ever seen on TV.

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That's the exact same energy I expect in season three.

You can catch "Lioness" season three starting August 2nd on Paramount+. Hit me with your predictions at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

Selling your home this summer? Your data is already moving

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:16:30 -0400

Selling your home can be exciting. It can also feel stressful, especially as you move into your retirement years. The last thing you need is opportunistic criminals circling as you make a major life change.

The risk is real. Someone who has just sold a home may have cash on hand or a well-funded bank account. That can make sellers prime targets for fraud, theft and identity scams.

There is good news, though. You have options. A few smart steps can help protect you, your family and your hard-earned nest egg. First, let's take a closer look at what gets exposed.

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WHY IDENTITY THEFT COMES BACK FOR THE SAME PEOPLE

What property sales can reveal

The moment a deed or property transfer gets recorded, key details can become part of the public record, depending on your state and county. That may include your name, mailing address, property history and, in many places, the sale price.

That gives scammers a head start. Based only on public record updates, they can target you when you may have the most to lose and when you are distracted by a move. They may know you recently sold a property, that you are receiving messages from real estate agents, title companies, escrow officers, inspectors and contractors and that your contact details may have changed.

But the deed and property records are only part of the problem. A property sale can reveal much more, including:

Floor plans that show the home's layout
Interior photos that may reveal security systems, entrances and valuables
Exterior views from listings or map services
Photos that show artwork, electronics, collectibles or other expensive items
Personal data that brokers already collected before the sale

How scammers get their hands on this information

Data brokers collect property information and sell it to real estate investors, marketing companies and lead generation services. For someone between 55 and 70 who is downsizing from a family home to a smaller property, that filing creates a fresh verified data point.

That new data can update an entire broker profile automatically, including your new address. Once that happens, the information can spread across people-search sites, marketing databases and broker networks. In some cases, it may reach brokers who sell curated consumer profiles to questionable buyers.

In other words, scammers do not have to piece together every record by hand. Data brokers and people-search sites can do the scraping, matching and packaging for them.

Watch for real estate wire fraud

Scammers may also impersonate your real estate agent, title company or escrow officer near closing. They may send fake wiring instructions or claim payment details have changed at the last minute.

Before sending or accepting any transfer, call the title company or closing professional using a phone number you found independently. Do not trust a number inside an unexpected email or text. Also, be suspicious of any last-minute change to wiring instructions.

BOOKING A SUMMER TRIP? HERE'S WHAT YOU'RE GIVING SCAMMERS

How to limit the danger when selling your home

There are two main ways to reduce the risk. You can limit what enters the public record, and you can disrupt the spread of your information once it appears online. You can also do both at the same time.

To limit what gets exposed:

Blur your property on Google Maps and Apple Maps. You can also follow our step-by-step guide to blur your home on Google Maps and Apple Maps
Contact your local government, usually at the county level, to ask whether property records can be redacted
Sign up for free property or deed recording alerts through your county recorder or clerk's office, if available
Remove property photos that reveal personal information or weaken your physical security
After purchasing a property, ask the real estate agent to remove photos and floor plans from their website

To limit what circulates online:

Search for your name on popular search engines and note the people-search sites that appear
Submit removal requests to sites that claim to sell your personal information
Prioritize brokers that specialize in property records, such as PropertyChecker.com or FloridaParcels.com
Research data brokers that operate in your area and send removal requests even when their websites do not allow public searches

Or, you can replace much of that work with a subscription to a data removal service.

LICENSE PLATE CAMERAS AT HOME DEPOT AND LOWE’S SPARK PRIVACY FEARS

Why I recommend a data removal service

Getting personal information out of circulation can take a lot of time. There are hundreds of data brokers. Each one may have its own opt-out process, and many can re-list your information within months after a successful removal.

That is why I recommend using a data removal service. It can automatically contact data brokers on your behalf, request the removal of your information and keep re-submitting removal requests if your data gets listed again. This service covers 420+ data brokers, including people-search sites, with an Unlimited plan for as many more sites as you need.

Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com

Run a free exposure scan

You can also run a free exposure scan to see where your personal information is appearing online. Results typically arrive by email within an hour.

Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com

Kurt's key takeaways

Selling a home should feel exciting, not risky. However, once your property sale gets recorded, details such as your name, mailing address, property history and, in many places, the sale price can become part of the public record. That information can spread quickly. People-search sites and data brokers can package it with past addresses, phone numbers, relatives and email addresses. That makes it easier for scammers to build a convincing profile on you. The good news is you can reduce your exposure. Ask for your home to be blurred on map services, remove risky listing photos, sign up for county recording alerts and request removals from data broker sites. A data removal service can also send opt-out requests on your behalf and keep checking if your information comes back online. With a little planning, you can protect your privacy and make yourself a much harder target.

After selling a home or moving, did you find your personal information online? Tell us what happened and how you handled it. Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Upgrade your sleepwear with these Amazon pajama deals, up to 53% off

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

Kick back in comfort with Amazon deals on loungewear and pajamas for men and women. Our roundup includes best-sellers like this women's button-down short set that's more than 50% off and this Amazon Essentials men's cotton T-shirt and short set that's on sale for $14.

Women's pajama deals

Save on nightgowns, short sets and other breathable pajamas.

Ekouaer button-down pajamas set: $16.99 (53% off)

Original price: $35.99

A FOX reader favorite, this pajama set is more than 50% off, making it a great time to stock up on multiple colors. The button-up top offers a polished look, while the stretchy shorts provide all-night comfort.

Sleeveless pajama set: $14.99 (40% off)

Original price: $24.99

Stay cool on warm nights with this sleeveless pajama set. The lightweight, stretchy fabric offers comfortable movement, while the colorful floral prints add a cheerful touch to your bedtime routine.

Calvin Klein tank top and boxer set: $26.01 (50% off)

Original price: $52

Save $26 on this brand-name tank top and boxer pajama set. The cotton-blend fabric with added elastane offers breathable comfort and just the right amount of stretch for lounging or sleeping.

Fruit of the Loom short sleeve pajama set: $14.63 (44% off)

Original price: $25.99

Relax in comfort with this Fruit of the Loom pajama set. The relaxed fit and tag-free design help reduce irritation, and it's available in multiple colors and patterns in regular and plus sizes up to 4XL.

Kate Spade New York jersey pajama set: $54.60 (30% off)

Original price: $78

Kate Spade's pajama set comes in playful prints, including peaches, flamingos and fruit-inspired patterns. Stretchy bottoms provide all-night comfort, while the button-up top adds a polished touch.

Soft nightgowns, 3-pack: $24.31 (24% off)

Original price: $31.99

Get three nightgowns for just $24. The soft, lightweight fabric is designed for all-night comfort, and the versatile neutral colors make them an easy addition to any sleepwear collection.

Men's pajama deals

From bamboo sets to Nautica pajama shorts, these PJs keep you comfortable all night.

Bamboo Cool pajama set: $39.99 (20% off)

Original price: $49.99

Made primarily from viscose derived from bamboo, this pajama set is designed to feel lightweight and breathable. Two side pockets and a chest pocket keep essentials close, while the relaxed fit offers plenty of room to move.

Amazon Essentials cotton pajama set: $13.68 (24% off)

Original price: $22.80

Score this T-shirt and duck-print shorts pajama set for just $14, matching its lowest price in 90 days. An adjustable drawstring waist lets you customize the fit, and it's available in sizes up to 3XL.

David Archy summer pajamas set: $24.99 (34% off)

Original price: $37.99

Stay cool on warm nights with these David Archy pajamas. The lightweight waffle-knit fabric is designed to promote airflow and breathable comfort, making them a great choice for summer.

Ekouaer pajamas set: $13.49 (10% off)

Original price: $14.99

The Ekouaer pajama set is versatile enough to wear for lounging, sleeping or light workouts. The soft, stretchy viscose-blend fabric helps keep you comfortable, and it's available in a wide range of colors and patterns to match your style.

MoFiz short-sleeve pajama set: $25.59 (20% off)

Original price: $31.99

This pajama set pairs a breathable V-neck T-shirt with roomy shorts for cool, comfortable sleep. The tag-free neckline helps reduce irritation for even more comfort.

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

Nautica cotton sleep shorts: $17.07 (43% off)

Original price: $30

Nautica's pajama shorts feature a classic fit with just the right amount of stretch for all-night comfort. The breathable cotton fabric comes in a variety of plaid patterns to suit your style.

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

Manhattan high-rise evacuated as officials warn of potential collapse

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:04:25 -0400

A Midtown Manhattan high-rise building near Grand Central Terminal was evacuated Tuesday morning after authorities said it was at risk of collapsing.

Officials with the New York Fire Department said they received a call at 7:57am about falling bricks at 235 East 42nd Street between 2nd Avenue and 3rd Avenue.

The building was once the corporate headquarters for the pharmaceutical company Pfizer, according to The New York Times.

PILOT DECLARES MAYDAY BEFORE SEAPLANE COMES DOWN IN EAST RIVER

The 38-story building was sagging between the 21st and 26th floors, according to the FDNY. First responders also noted that 2 columns buckled between the 21st and 22nd floors.

Approximately 130 fire and EMS personnel were activated to evacuate people from the premises.

The building is in the process of being converted into an apartment complex with more than 1,600 units, The Times reported. The project was slated for completion by 2027.

Six other surrounding buildings were also evacuated as a precaution, fire officials said. There have been no reported injuries.

COUPLE FACING SLEW OF CHARGES AFTER CLIMBING TO TOP OF EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

Officials with the city's Department of Buildings are on the scene and are using drones to examine the building.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani addressed the situation at an unrelated press conference, saying that a school with about 400 children inside was evacuated.

FOUL ODOR AT NYC SCHOOL LEADS POLICE TO BODY HIDDEN IN CHIMNEY

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"Most of 42nd Street and 43rd Street between 1st and 2nd Avenues have been shut down to pedestrians and to vehicles. And all of this is a reflection of the fact that our top priority right now is the safety of those who live in this area, the safety of those who work in this area, and DOB inspectors and engineers who are on site," Mamdani said.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Top five memorable moments from Team USA's magical 2026 FIFA World Cup run

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:02:42 -0400

With their 4-1 loss to Belgium late Monday night in Seattle, the World Cup run for the U.S. Men's National Team came to a disappointing end.

Although the team's exit was unceremonious, fans shouldn't let that dampen the overall mood from the 2026 tournament, which was, by and large, a rousing success for the USMNT.

From a wins, goals, and overall style perspective, this was the best performance by an American men's team at a World Cup in quite some time, and we have to keep that in mind when judging the experience as a whole.

LANDON DONOVAN RECALLS LIFE-CHANGING WORLD CUP MOMENT AMID PLAYERS' 'RESPONSIBILITY' OF GROWING GAME IN USA

With that, we definitely had our fair share of memorable moments, and I wanted to relive some of the best USMNT memories from this magical run at the World Cup.

So wash that bad Belgian taste out of your mouth and indulge me as we take a stroll down memory lane from the past month.

5. Opening onslaught vs Paraguay

Coming into the tournament, many pundits and fans (myself included) were shaky in our confidence regarding this iteration of the USMNT.

They didn't exactly enter the tournament on a high note, and their best player, Christian Pulisic, was just coming out of a historic slump.

With a World Cup opener against Paraguay looming, a team that had beaten the likes of Brazil and Argentina during qualifiers, many predicted a nail-biter, and a win certainly wasn't guaranteed.

That all changed less than seven minutes into the match, when Pulisic split a double team and sent a ball towards the middle of the box, only to have a Paraguayan defender misplay it into the back of the net.

GEORGE LUCAS SPOTTED AT USMNT WORLD CUP OPENER WHERE PLAYER NICKNAMED 'JEDI' HELPED DELIVER 4-1 WIN

From that point forward, the rout was on, as the USMNT displayed their class with precision passing and free moving offense that looked completely foreign to anything they had shown on the pitch prior to that day.

The final score was a resounding 4-1 victory, and the win only looked better with age, as Paraguay went on to defeat Germany in the round of 32 and gave France all they could handle the following game.

The victory let everyone know that this USMNT was a legitimate threat to make some noise in the tournament, and had everyone in America ready to believe.

4. A star is born

Before the start of the 2026 World Cup, few fans outside of some of the more hardcore U.S. supporters knew who Folarin Balogun was.

That all changed with his play during this year's tournament as America's lethal striker and top goal scorer.

What a performance from Balogun, who always seemed to be in the right place at the right time, slotting home three goals and even scoring a few more that were wiped out because of some razor-thin offside margins.

Balogun was a joy to watch, and his high-profile red card decision earned him that much more popularity, prompting even President Trump to weigh in on the matter.

With Balogun only just recently turning 25, he will be a fixture in this USMNT lineup for years to come, and his star will only continue to grow.

3. Seattle gets patriotic

Not many people would have predicted the city of Seattle to be the epicenter of American pride, but that's exactly what we got every time the Emerald City hosted the USMNT.

Specifically, during their group stage game against the Australians, the USMNT was greeted with one of the most patriotic displays we've ever seen at a soccer game.

The mood inside the walls of the stadium were raucous even before the start of the game, but the scene in the streets of the city were just as impressive, if not more so.

USMNT STAR CHRISTIAN PULISIC FINALLY ENDS LENGTHY GOAL DROUGHT IN WIN OVER SENEGAL

Thousands of fans descended upon the FOX Sports pregame set, prompting host Rob Stone to declare he had "never seen anything like this in American soccer."

What makes the moment even sweeter is that a writer for a local Seattle newspaper had predicted fans would be less than enthusiastic about the team given the "political climate."

Fans from both sides of the political aisle showed up in droves and showed the Seattle Times the error of their ways, giving us one of the best environments at any soccer game ever held on American soil.

2. Take Me Home, Country Roads

There are some songs that will always be associated with a memory. That's just the power of music.

But the wild thing about John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads" is that an entire generation of soccer fans will now associate it with the summer of 2026 and the fun and magic of the World Cup more than five decades after the song's release.

The lasting image of the fans and team singing the folk-country number after every win will be burned in the hearts and minds of Americans all across the nation.

Hell, it's such a catchy tune that even USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino got in the fun, giving a full-throated rendition to the crowd in Seattle after the team punched their ticket to the knockout rounds against Australia.

From now on, anytime someone hears those opening notes being picked on Denver's acoustic guitar, their mind will race back to this summer, when a group of men wearing the Stars and Stripes gave them a World Cup experience they will never forget.

1. Lightning strikes twice for Malik Tillman

Before the start of the knockout rounds, I called midfielder Malik Tillman the "unsung hero" of the USMNT for his flair, passing ability, and for the fact that he always seemed to be in the right place making the right play.

You can go ahead and remove that "unsung" prefix and just call him a "hero," because his performances in both of the knockout games against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Belgium were legendary.

His freekick goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina may be one of the most memorable set piece goals in USMNT history, and came at a time when the team and country desperately needed it.

Down to ten men after a dubious red card got Balogun sent off and nursing a 1-0 lead, Tillman calmly stepped up to the spot just outside the penalty box and buried a looping ball into the back of the net.

And when the USMNT went down 1-0 early to Belgium on Monday night, few thought he could create magic two games in a row.

Tillman once again proved everyone wrong with yet another magnificent free kick goal that briefly drew America even with the Red Devils.

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Much like Balogun, Tillman is young (24) and will be with this USMNT for a long time, so I only expect him to get better as he matures in his role with the squad.

I doubt few will ever forget his brilliance at the 2026 World Cup, and there's a good chance those two free kicks alone make it so that Tillman will never pay for a drink in America again.

Trump taunts Meloni with fresh photo salvo as NATO summit puts allies face-to-face

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:01:14 -0400

President Donald Trump escalated his public feud with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, further fueling a rift between the two leaders in the lead up to the NATO summit in Turkey this week.

"RESTRAINING ORDER NEEDED," Trump posted on Truth Social Sunday alongside a photo of Meloni looking at him.

Trump landed in Ankara, Turkey, on Tuesday for the NATO summit, where Meloni is also in attendance. The two leaders have long had a warmer relationship than Trump has shared with many other U.S. allies, with Meloni notably the only European leader to attend his 2025 presidential inauguration.

A spat began in June, however, after Trump said Meloni "begged" him to take a photo at the G7. Meloni pushed back on the claim.

RUBIO MEETS MELONI AS TRUMP–POPE CLASH CLASH ESCALATES US STRAINS WITH KEY EUROPEAN ALLY

"Trump's statements against Meloni speak for themselves," Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Monday while at a Sky TG24 event. "We are convinced that transatlantic relations go far beyond individual statements."

The latest exchange followed an earlier flashpoint at the G7 in June, when Trump mocked Meloni’s interest in taking a photo with him.

"She wanted a picture with me so badly. I wouldn't have taken it, but I felt sorry for her," Trump said at the time to La7 TV channel. "She's probably happy I talked to her. I didn't have to talk to her."

Meloni fired back: "I can only say it is disappointing that he does not show the same determination with the enemies of the West and of the United States, whose leaders he instead treats with far greater indulgence."

TRUMP'S PERSONAL FEUDS WITH ALLIES FROM ITALY TO ISRAEL REVEAL HOW PERSONALITY DRIVES HIS FOREIGN POLICY

"There is one thing he should remember: neither I nor Italy ever beg," she added.

While there is no U.S.-Italy bilateral meeting scheduled in Turkey this week, Trump and Meloni may rub shoulders at the NATO leaders' dinner, plenary sessions, and leaders' gatherings.

There have been looming tensions between the two leaders after Meloni distanced herself from the U.S. amid mounting domestic and political pressure over the widening Middle East conflict.

Trump also criticized Meloni for failing to assist the U.S. without letting U.S. forces use Italy's landing strips and runways, calling it "a great logistical inconvenience."

"She is doing poorly in Italy with her level of popularity, possibly because she turned down the United States of America, a Country that truly loves and protects Italy, when it came to denying Iran from obtaining or developing a Nuclear Weapon (But so did NATO, for that matter!)," he wrote.

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Italy remains a key U.S. security hub in Europe, hosting nearly 13,000 active-duty American troops across six bases as of the end of 2025.

A spokesperson for Meloni declined to comment when contacted by Fox News Digital. Fox News Digital also reached out to the White House for comment.

Texas bakery says it's 'embarrassed' by America, calls MAGA 'a cult' in July 4 message

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:59:32 -0400

A Texas bakery is facing online backlash after publishing a Fourth of July message saying its owners were "embarrassed, afraid, and disappointed" in what the United States has become, while calling the MAGA movement "a cult" and denouncing the Trump administration in explicit terms.

In a July 3 Facebook post, Flower Mound-based Hive Bakery wrote, "We expressed not wanting to celebrate the 4th this year, as we’re embarrassed, afraid, and disappointed in what this country has become."

"MAGA is adversarial," the bakery continued. "It’s a cult of unintelligent, rabid, immoral sycophants. Those conservatives who still have rational thought have left the MAGA movement. Those who remain and continue to support the most corrupt administration in our nation's history, are here, wishing for our bakery to burn to the ground. Enjoy a little taste of this Americana."

MEDIA ATTACKS DONALD TRUMP'S FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION, CLAIMING IT 'SULLIED' AMERICA 250

The post concluded: "We are open tomorrow from 10-6 as we refuse to observe this holiday. F--- this fa$ci$t regime and every single person perpetuating the downfall of our country. Still holding out hope for an AOC revolution."

In a video posted on July 4, Hive Bakery said it had received backlash for a post it made a few days prior saying it would not be celebrating the holiday and read many of the comments aloud in the video.

Some of the negative comments reposted by Hive Bakery in response included one that said, "Hope your place burns to the ground. You deserve it. F---ing leftist."

SAN DIEGO TACO CHAIN TARGETED BY BOYCOTT OVER CEO'S ALLEGED TRUMP SUPPORT

Another read, "I will celebrate this amazing country because it is still a great place to live. Instead of everyone being so negative, try some kindness. I always say, no one is stopping you from leaving and finding a better place to live."

An additional commenter said, "With a post like this, I will never patronize your business, and I will make sure to let my friends and family know your thoughts as well. If you're that embarrassed, pack your s--- and leave. You won't be missed. Don't let the door hit ya where the good Lord split ya."

But many other comments were supportive of the bakery, with one person replying to the July 3 post writing, " ....tempted to get in the car and drive 12 hours for some Hive goodies...."

Another person wrote, "Lol… I just said to my husband where’s hive bakery, let’s go support them… then I saw they are all the way in Texas. That’s way more than 12 hours for me… but go Hive Bakery I stand with you!"

SOCIALIST HOUSE HOPEFUL UNDER FIRE FOR PRO-PALESTINIAN JULY 4 MESSAGE

A woman who identified herself as a Canadian said, "If I had my passport, I’d go see you and buy a truck load of your fabulous goodies. This looks amazing! Plus love the fact you got balls."

Another post on the Fourth of July from the bakery shows iced cookies decorated with an upside-down American flag and the words "UNDER DURESS" on them.

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Fox News Digital reached out to Hive Bakery for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Trump could hand prized stealth jets to NATO ally once seen as alliance headache

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:46:05 -0400

President Donald Trump said Tuesday he plans to lift U.S. sanctions on Turkey and signaled he is prepared to move forward with the long-stalled sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets, marking a dramatic reversal in U.S. policy toward the NATO ally years after Ankara was expelled from the program for its purchase of a Russian missile defense system.

Speaking alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during a bilateral meeting at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, Tuesday, Trump said his administration would remove sanctions imposed on Turkey's defense sector.

"I can tell you we're going to be taking the sanctions off, OK?" Trump said. "I don't want him to waste his time answering that question. It's time. We don't sanction friends."

TRUMP BETS ON FORMER NATO TROUBLEMAKER AS TURKEY'S STRATEGIC VALUE SURGES

Asked whether he would sell F-35 fighter jets to Turkey despite existing legal restrictions tied to Ankara's purchase of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system, Trump indicated he was open to doing so.

"Many people, including the people sitting right here think why wouldn't we do that?" Trump said. "Turkey has been in many ways much more loyal than other countries that we think would be loyal."

Pressed on concerns about Turkey's continued possession of the S-400, Trump dismissed them.

"I have no concerns about anything."

The remarks represent Trump's clearest indication yet that he intends to restore defense ties with Turkey, building on months of efforts to revive military cooperation with one of NATO's largest armed forces after years of strained relations.

Turkey was removed from the multinational F-35 program in 2019 after taking delivery of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system, prompting Washington to argue that operating the Kremlin-built system alongside America's most advanced stealth fighter could expose sensitive U.S. technology. Congress subsequently imposed sanctions under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, or CAATSA.

'WRITTEN IN OUR DNA': POLISH PILOTS WHO REMEMBER SOVIET RULE PREPARE FOR AMERICA'S MOST LETHAL FIGHTER JET

Congress long has been one of the biggest obstacles to restoring Turkey's access to the F-35, with bipartisan lawmakers arguing that Ankara should not receive America's most advanced fighter aircraft while it continues to possess the Russian-made S-400 air defense system and pursues policies they say run counter to U.S. interests.

Beyond political opposition, the Trump administration also faces legal hurdles.

While the president has authority over sanctions policy, Congress enacted additional restrictions after Turkey's purchase of the S-400. Section 1245 of the fiscal year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act bars the transfer of F-35 aircraft to Turkey unless the executive branch certifies that Ankara has met statutory requirements related to the Russian missile system.

In recent days, a bipartisan group of House lawmakers urged Trump not to move forward with an F-35 sale, arguing that doing so without satisfying those legal requirements would violate U.S. law and undermine national security.

Lawmakers also have warned that Turkey's continued possession of the S-400, support for Hamas and tensions with fellow NATO allies Greece and Cyprus raise broader concerns about restoring Ankara's access to the stealth fighter.

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The Pentagon has maintained that the S-400's sophisticated radar could collect data on the F-35's radar signature and electronic profile during routine operations, potentially allowing Russia to better detect and defeat the aircraft in a future conflict if that information were shared with Moscow.

When the Trump administration removed Turkey from the F-35 program in 2019, the White House said "the F-35 cannot coexist with a Russian intelligence collection platform that will be used to learn about its advanced capabilities."

Pentagon acquisition chief Ellen Lord similarly warned at the time that allowing Turkey to operate both systems would jeopardize the long-term security of the F-35 program because "much of the F-35's strength lies in its stealth capabilities."

Amazon deals under $25: Cooling fans, breathable T-shirts and more

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:01:54 -0400

Amazon cut prices on tech, outdoor gear and everyday essentials over the Fourth of July holiday weekend and the deals are still going strong. All of these top discounts go for less than $25. Highlights include a men's polo shirt for 60% off, a portable tire inflator for nearly half off and an embroidered America 250 hat for just $14. Shop now while the discounts are still steep.

Trending deals under $25

Seamless sports bras, 3-pack: $19.99 (52% off)
Pruning shears: $12.99 (46% off)
MagSafe phone car mount: $16.93 (44% off)
Windproof travel umbrella: $22.77 (43% off)
High-waisted leggings: $6.39 (36% off)
10-foot extension cord: $13.99 (30% off)

Best clothing deals

Save on T-shirts, sports bras and hoodies from Carhartt, Hanes and more.

Men's polo shirt: $12.99 (48% off)
Levi's men's 405 Standard Fit shorts: $34.65 (37% off)
Casual women's sundress: $14.99 (25% off)

Wireless sports bra: $7.99 (11% off)

Original price: $8.99

This wireless sports bra is a FOX News Deals favorite. The stretchy fabric provides a barely-there feel, while wider straps deliver comfortable support for all-day wear.

Carhartt pocket T-shirt: $13.68 (32% off)

Original price: $19.99

A Carhartt staple since 1992, this heavyweight cotton T-shirt has earned a reputation for durability and all-day comfort. The relaxed fit and signature chest pocket give it a classic workwear look, while the wide range of colors and sizes makes it easy to stock up on a few favorites.

Women's pajama set: $16.99 (53% off)

Original price: $35.99

This pajama set features a lightweight button-up top and slightly oversized shorts with just the right amount of stretch. At just $20 in multiple colors, it's a steal.

Best cooling deals

Beat the heat with deals on everything from cooling towels to portable handheld fans.

Cooling throw blanket: $19.99 (33% off)
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Fox News leads all news brands in YouTube video views and social engagement for second quarter 2026

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:17:49 -0400

FOX News Media closed out the second quarter of 2026 by delivering 1.4 billion YouTube video views across its portfolio, topping all news brands in the competitive set, according to Emplifi.

During the quarter, Fox News garnered 1.4 billion video views, leading its closest competitor MS NOW, who had 763 million views, by more than 300 million views. Fox News more than doubled CNN, which had 511 million views, and topped ABC News' 337 million views, NBC News' 310 million views, and CBS News' 136 million views, combined.

FOX News Media has generated 3.3 billion YouTube video views since the start of 2026, with Fox News Channel accounting for 2.5 billion of those views. Fox News surpassed all news brands on YouTube for the seventh straight quarter.

FOX NEWS HITS THIRD-HIGHEST YOUTUBE MONTH EVER IN APRIL, NEARLY QUADRUPLING COMPETITORS

FOX Business’ YouTube generated 158 million video views throughout the quarter.

Fox News also ranked number one in social engagement in the second quarter of 2026, nabbing 269 million social media interactions across Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok, according to Emplifi.

The network garnered 122 million Facebook interactions, 51.9 million Instagram interactions, 18.2 million X interactions and, according to Comscore Social, 76.8 million TikTok interactions.

FOX NEWS DIGITAL POSTS BEST QUARTER EVER WITH 187 MILLION MONTHLY UNIQUE VISITORS IN EARLY 2026

Additionally, Fox News was number one on YouTube during the month of June, delivering 270 million video views.

In June, Fox News led MS NOW (245 million views) CNN (153 million), NBC News (113 million), ABC News (112 million) and CBS (36 million).

Fox Business continued its reign during June, driving 43 million video views, according to Comscore Social, and earning its spot as the number one business news competitive set for the 56th consecutive month.

In May 2026, Fox News also finished the month as the No. 1 news brand on YouTube, with a staggering 338.8 million video views, more than tripling viewership of each of the three broadcast networks.

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Fox News beat No. 2 MS NOW by over 100 million views, as the progressive cable outlet finished with 212.8 million. Fox News has been No. 1 among competitive news brands on YouTube with video views every month in 2026.

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CNN managed 154.1 million video views, while broadcast outlets ABC News (105.7 million), NBC News (82.4 million) and CBS News (37.6 million) fell far behind, with Fox News outdrawing the three combined.

Fox News' Brian Flood contributed to this report.

Fetterman demands Bernie Sanders apologize for backing alleged 'predator' Graham Platner in Maine Senate race

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:17:39 -0400

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., is demanding an apology from Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., as explosive new sexual assault allegations have rocked Democratic Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner's campaign.

"I would really call Bernie Sanders to apologize for pushing this kind of predator more than anyone," Fetterman said Monday on "The Ingraham Angle."

"He helped him [become the Democratic nominee], and now [he should] apologize to the victims, especially the woman that she claimed that he raped her. I don't know why you want to keep pushing these kinds of people."

SANDERS CAUGHT ON CAMERA SNAPPING AT REPORTER OVER PLATNER’S POSTS: ‘GET A BETTER JOB’

Platner's Senate hopes are on life support after Jenny Racicot alleged that he sexually assaulted her in interviews with Politico and CNN. Racicot claims the Senate hopeful entered her home uninvited while intoxicated nearly five years ago and forced himself on her despite repeated attempts to get him to stop.

Racicot, who was seeing Platner on and off at the time, told Politico she immediately cut ties with him after he allegedly forced her to engage in unprotected sex, saying, "I remember the specific moment where I thought to myself, like, ‘This is no longer my choice.’"

Platner's campaign issued a statement denying Racicot's accusations, adding that he was "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward" for his campaign.

Democrats, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., swiftly abandoned the embattled Democratic nominee and urged him to drop out of the high-stakes Senate race.

Sanders, however, has remained silent and did not return Fox News Digital's prior request for comment.

Fetterman said Sanders should consider "sit[ting] a few out" after bashing his support for "communists."

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

The Pennsylvania Democrat has been critical of Platner for some time, previously questioning his conduct on the Kik platform and pressuring him to make public the messages he allegedly exchanged with women on the platform.

Reacting to Racicot's accusations Monday, Fetterman expressed his condolences for any trauma she experienced.

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"It was very brave for her to come [forward with] this. I'm so sorry for what she's been through," he said.

Fox News' Adam Pack contributed to this report.

Comedian calls Trump ‘White Obama’ in resurfaced clip, explains why critics keep underestimating his appeal

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:16:53 -0400

Comedian Josh Johnson compared President Donald Trump’s appeal to former President Barack Obama’s in a resurfaced video clip posted to Facebook by Trevor Noah on July 4, arguing that Trump connects with some White Americans who see themselves as having overcome hardship.

The discussion comes from a previously released episode of Noah’s "What Now?" podcast, during which Johnson calls Trump "White Obama" because he speaks to the experience of having overcome hardship that some White people feel is overlooked by society due to their race.

"He's Obama for White people who hated the idea of Obama," Johnson said. "That, to me, is why I think people keep underestimating [Trump]."

OBAMA BLAMES SPLINTERED MEDIA FOR PREVENTING SUPERSTAR DEMOCRAT FROM RISING UP

The comic went on to explain his view that there is a certain narrative "baked into America's understanding of the experience of a Black person," regardless of how true it may be for any given individual.

That narrative tells of a triumph over adversity that Johnson suggests is Oscar-worthy: "Your ancestors were slaves, you have to struggle, but you always make it through, and like, you had to avoid crime and drugs and getting somebody pregnant," just to reach the level of a White peer, Johnson said.

But today, there are "so many cracks" in that story, according to Johnson. Not only are there Black people who are raised in stable, suburban homes — but there are plenty of White people "who literally are that story, but no one tells it in that way."

DAVE CHAPPELLE ADMITS HE SEES WHY TRUMP ‘GETS MAD’ AT CNN OVER AMERICAN PRIDE QUESTION

"They're like, 'My great-great-grandparents were these Irish immigrants. They got spit on when they came here...' 'I have a lot of drugs and crime where I'm from...' 'My family was on food stamps,'" the comedian said. "All the stuff like that — as a White person — which is never really talked about. And so then, this person had to overcome a lot just to be next to this other White person, right?"

Trump speaks to this experience "the way that Obama spoke to Black people who may or may have not been having that stereotypical experience," said Johnson, making the case that White people don't all understand one another.

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"White people who are the living embodiment of everything we've been told Black people go through," Johnson said, may take to Trump in a way that he says is "so powerful" as a result.

Fox News Digital reached out to Johnson for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Video shows bomb rock Damascus hotel where French President Macron is staying during Syrian state visit

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:07:03 -0400

A pair of explosions rocked the Syrian capital of Damascus near the downtown Four Seasons hotel, where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during a state visit, Syrian state media reported Tuesday.

Eighteen people, including four police officers, were injured by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on Tuesday, Syria's interior ministry reported through state outlet SANA.

According to the ministry, both bombs exploded after security forces had discovered them, "while preparations for the disposal operation were underway."

BRIEF ALCOHOL BAN IN DAMASCUS SPARKS CONCERNS ABOUT PRESIDENT AL-SHARAA'S VISION FOR SYRIA

The bombs were placed inside a car and a garbage can near the hotel where Macron was staying during his visit, the first Syrian state visit by the leader of a Western country since Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa took over for the now-deposed former President Bashar al-Assad in 2025.

A spokesman for Élysée Palace said Macron was not in his hotel during the explosions and didn't even hear them. He continued his visit with al-Sharaa, according to both Élysée Palace and SANA.

While not commenting on the explosions directly, Macron posted a statement on X shortly after the incident.

ISRAEL FORTIFIES BORDER WITH JORDAN AS IRAN SEEKS NEW TERROR PATH

"Nothing can smother the aspiration of Syrian women and men to live in a fully sovereign, safe, pluralistic, and united Syria. This morning I met Syria in all its diversity. I saw dignity, courage, and determination. My visit continues," he wrote.

Syria's Ministry of the Interior confirmed the explosions but stressed that they were outside the security perimeter designated for Macron.

"We confirm that the explosion site is outside the security perimeter designated for the French president’s residence. It posed no direct threat to the residence or the official visit program, which is proceeding as planned," the ministry announced through SANA.

'PARCEL BOMB' EXPLODES IN MONACO RESIDENTIAL AREA, LEAVING 2 CRITICALLY INJURED: REPORTS

Macron is the first Western leader to meet with al-Sharaa in Damascus since he became the country's president in 2025. Some have criticized Western leaders, including President Donald Trump, who hosted al-Sharaa in the White House in November, for normalizing relations with al-Sharaa given his past as a fighter for the al Qaeda terrorist group.

Tuesday's explosions in Damascus were also the second and third major blasts in Damascus in less than a week.

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On Monday, France's government condemned what it called a "terrorist attack" after an explosive device killed at least nine people in a Damascus cafe on July 2.

Syrian authorities are still investigating the attack and have not publicly ascribed it to any group or individual, according to The Washington Post.

Fox News Digital contacted the Syrian Foreign Ministry and Élysée Palace for confirmation and further details.

Sanders remains quiet as pressure grows for Platner to quit amid rape claim

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:57:54 -0400

A bombshell rape allegation has thrown Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner's campaign into turmoil, but some of his most progressive supporters in Congress are standing by him.

At least three Democratic lawmakers — Sens. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Chris Murphy, D-Conn., and Chris Van Hollen, D-Md. — have yet to withdraw their support or call on Platner to end his campaign after Maine resident Jenny Racicot, 41, accused him of rape in interviews with Politico and CNN.

Asked by Fox News Digital about Racicot's allegation that Platner in 2021 barged into her home while intoxicated and forced her to have unprotected sex, none of the lawmakers responded by publication time.

The muted response marks the latest sign that some progressives are sticking with Platner despite mounting scandals threatening the viability of his Senate bid.

DEMOCRATS BREAK WITH SCANDAL-PLAGUED GRAHAM PLATNER, WARN OF 'CIVIL WAR' IN PARTY

Some Platner allies have viewed his rise as part of a broader fight over the Democratic Party's direction, with the Senate hopeful embodying a more populist, far-left vision.

Maine Democrats rejected Platner's primary rival, Gov. Janet Mills, D-Maine, who was aligned with the party's establishment, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. Mills suspended her campaign weeks before the June primary amid poor polling and fundraising struggles.

Other leading leftists, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., quickly rescinded their endorsements of Platner and called on him to exit the race. Similarly, Schumer and Senate Democrats’ campaign arm, which had only endorsed Platner after his June primary victory, demanded the immediate suspension of his campaign.

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., who previously called a physical abuse allegation by former Platner girlfriend Lyndsey Fifield "a lot of nothing" in an interview with NOTUS, withdrew his support for Platner on Tuesday following Racicot’s rape accusation.

His statement comes as Democrats face mounting scrutiny over their responses to the accusations against Platner, after years of taking a hard line on sexual misconduct allegations.

"A lot of people owe apologies to Lyndsey Fifield — most notably Sheldon Whitehouse, who dismissed her allegations on the grounds that she worked for ‘right-wing political operations,’" journalist Josh Barro wrote on social media.

Sanders, a leader of the party’s leftist base who campaigned with Platner several times, was notably silent after Racicot’s rape allegation. He continued to support the Senate hopeful after Fifield’s allegations first emerged in early June and similarly during reports that Platner sent sexually explicit text messages to at least half a dozen women while married.

"We got a housing crisis. People can’t afford healthcare, they can’t afford groceries, they can’t afford to fill up their gas tanks. And I think it’s important for us to focus on the issues facing working families a little bit more than Graham Platner’s marriage," Sanders told reporters in June in remarks obtained by NBC.

Murphy, too, publicly defended Platner after news broke about Platner’s infidelity to his wife, Amy Gertner, who he married in 2023. He continued to embrace the Maine Democrat’s Senate bid after Fifield and other women accused Platner of abuse.

SANDERS CAUGHT ON CAMERA SNAPPING AT REPORTER OVER PLATNER’S POSTS: ‘GET A BETTER JOB’

And amid the piling up of controversies, Murphy suggested that Platner still had more character than incumbent Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine.

"Graham Platner is somebody who served our country, he’s served his community; he’s also made mistakes, and he’s admitted that," Murphy said during an interview with CBS News in May. "Character also involves standing up to people who are bankrupting and corrupting this country."

"And this race is going to be a contrast between somebody who has put his life on the line for this country, against somebody who is literally empowering the moral hollowing-out of our nation from the White House," he went on.

Meanwhile, Van Hollen, a progressive senator with leadership ambitions, went to the mat to defend Platner amid scrutiny over his Nazi-linked tattoo and controversial online posts in which he declared himself a communist, disparaged law enforcement and Black people and White rural Americans, and mocked a teenage girl's suicide.

"He’s been very clear that he went into combat on behalf of the United States, he went through a really rough period, PTSD-type period," Van Hollen told Punchbowl News in April.

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"He himself said there are lots of things he's done and said that he completely regrets, and I do believe people should have second chances and that people can learn from their mistakes, and I think he's been doing that," he said.

Stephen A Smith saw three White Lakers and exposed a glaring liberal double standard

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:00:04 -0400

Sometimes I like what television personality, podcast host and sports analyst Stephen A. Smith has to say. Other times, I just shake my head and ask, "What?" This is one of those times.

The man recently looked at the Los Angeles Lakers’ roster in the post-LeBron James era and saw that its top three players are White. He decided that their skin color was newsworthy. "This ain't golf," he said. "This ain't baseball. It ain't even soccer." He spoke as if basketball has some sort of pigmentation requirement for getting on the court. He acted as if the gatekeepers messed up by letting three White dudes onto the court.

Let’s call this what it is: racism. I’m not being anything but factual. This man looked at three other men and decided the most important thing about them was their skin color. This man also took it upon himself to decide that basketball belongs to Black people. If this isn’t racism, then what is it?

STEPHEN A SMITH SHOWS HIS PRIVILEGE BY MOCKING LAKERS' ROSTER FOR HAVING TOO MANY 'WHITE DUDES'

All of this is absurd. Race is absurd. Under segregation, White men kept Black people out of all the top leagues because of the color of their skin. Now Stephen A. Smith wants to step into those shoes?

Somewhere along the way, we decided there are two sets of rules. Point out that a team has a lot of great Black players, and it's seen as something to be proud of, something to be celebrated as progress. But if you point out that a team has a lot of great White players, suddenly it’s suspicious. It’s something that needs explaining.

The best players in the NBA didn't get there because of their race. They got there because they outworked everybody else on the planet who wanted the same thing. Michael Jordan didn't wake up every morning and work on his blackness. His blackness didn’t make him the greatest player to ever walk this Earth. It was his talent, his skill, his perseverance, his killer instinct. He trained his jump shot. He trained his footwork. He trained his mind to want it more than the guy across from him.

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

Same with Larry Bird. He didn't make the Hall of Fame because he was White. His White skin didn’t give him privilege. It didn’t add air to his jump or guide the ball into the basket. See how absurd this notion of race is? He made it because he could see angles on a basketball court that other men couldn't. Talent doesn't check a box. It shows up, or it doesn't.

When Stephen A. Smith frames three great players as some kind of anomaly because of their skin color, he's not being bold or honest. He’s showcasing the worst in us. Tribalism. Racism. Division. Entitlement. Yeah, I said it. Smith is teaching us that we should be entitled because we are Black. We are entitled to basketball because we are Black. And this is coming out of the mouth of a man whom I admire. Smith has built a media empire and is banking millions a year. People love him. And yet he betrays all that hard work by teaching our children that Black people are entitled to the NBA court because they are, well, Black. What a horrible message to send to our kids.

And here’s the hypocrisy in all of this. If the roles were reversed and, say, Dick Vitale complained that the Golden State Warriors were too White, who would be among the most outraged? Stephen A. Smith. He’s playing both sides, and that is not right. You cannot condemn racism against your own group while excusing it against another. You touch racism, and you lose all moral authority.

The only answer is to treat each player as an individual. Those three Lakers who happen to be White are among the best players in the league and absolute ballers. The Lakers hired them because they want to win. They’d hire purple dudes as long as they could win.

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I've spent my life around people from every background you can imagine, and I've never once seen greatness ask permission from someone's skin color. I've seen it ask for discipline. I've seen it ask for sacrifice. I've seen it ask a man to get up before the sun for 10 years straight while nobody was watching and nobody was clapping. That's the price. Race is irrelevant.

We are better than this. Our children deserve better than this. And basketball — a game built by men and women of every background who simply wanted to be the best at what they loved — deserves better than being reduced to a scoreboard for somebody's grievance.

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Talent is colorblind. It's time our commentary caught up.

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Top Democratic Senate hopefuls turn on Platner after bombshell rape allegation

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:41:16 -0400

Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner campaigned on building a growing progressive coalition, but some of the key candidates running across the country have now turned their back on him.

Platner’s campaign against Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, was rocked on Monday after Politico’s report that the aspiring lawmaker allegedly raped an ex-girlfriend. Within hours of the allegation circulating, several high-profile candidates disavowed him and demanded he exit the race.

"The credible allegations against Graham Platner cannot be ignored — he should withdraw from the race immediately," Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico said in a statement.

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

Talarico and other Democratic Senate candidates pitching themselves as progressives, including Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan, former Rep. Mary Peltola in Alaska, former Sen. Sherrod Brown in Ohio and Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, all called on Platner to exit the race.

"Credible allegations of sexual assault cannot be ignored," El-Sayed said. "Voters in Maine deserve a choice for U.S. Senate that doesn’t force them to make a moral compromise between sexual violence or corporate servitude."

But it’s the first time the five Senate hopefuls have publicly admonished Platner after several scandals have dogged his campaign.

DEMOCRATS EXTEND PLATNER 'GRACE' DESPITE ABUSE ALLEGATIONS AFTER KAVANAUGH RECKONING

Fox News Digital did not immediately hear back from each campaign on why each candidate opted to break with Platner now rather than after previous allegations, including the June report from The New York Times that the Maine candidate exhibited "unsettling" behavior with women that often revolved around alcohol and alleged intimidation.

Meanwhile, Platner has yet to withdraw from contention in a contest that Democrats viewed as the key to winning back the Senate.

In a video statement released moments after Politico’s report, Platner dismissed the rape allegation but acknowledged the reality it could have on his campaign.

EXCLUSIVE: COLLINS PITS RECORD BUILT IN MAINE POTATO FIELDS AGAINST PLATNER'S 'ANGRY RHETORIC'

"Regardless of the inaccuracy of the reporting, but mindful of the political reality it will inflict, we are taking the time to reflect on the best path forward for the state that I love, the people that I love, the movement I belong to and the goal of defeating Susan Collins," he said.

The clock is ticking for Democrats to figure out their next move — the deadline in Maine for a candidate to drop out is July 13. If Platner does withdraw by then, the Maine Democratic Party, which also disavowed his campaign, has until July 27 to nominate a replacement.

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And Collins, the political foe that Platner and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., are desperately trying to beat, has stayed at arm's length from the mess across the political spectrum.

"These allegations are appalling," Collins said in a statement. "Nevertheless, it is not up to me to choose the Democratic nominee for Senate."

Graham Platner's chances of dropping out skyrocket to 94% after party revolt: Kalshi

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:36:15 -0400

Traders on prediction market Kalshi are piling into wagers that Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner will drop out of the race by next week.

The contract on whether Platner will drop out before July 14 soared to 94 cents Tuesday morning from the previous single digits, implying traders now assign a roughly 94% probability to his impending exit. The trading volume, or the total dollar amount wagered on this market, sits just north of $4.4 million.

While prediction markets don't determine political outcomes, the surge in betting reflects a growing belief among traders that Platner's campaign is in serious jeopardy following the latest allegations. Platner is seeking to unseat five-term Republican Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, in one of the nation's most closely watched Senate races.

THE GROWING LIST OF CONTROVERSIES THREATENING DEMOCRAT GRAHAM PLATNER'S MAINE SENATE BID

The market's abrupt swing follows Democrats' rapid break with Platner after a rape allegation was leveled against him on Monday, which immediately triggered calls from across the party for him to suspend his campaign.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., one of Platner's highest-profile backers, rescinded her endorsement after previously saying that he is "my kind of man."

"With so much at stake, the best path forward is for Graham Platner to step aside as the Democratic nominee and address these serious allegations outside this Senate race," the progressive senator wrote in a statement.

Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., also withdrew his backing and called on Platner to exit the race.

Sens. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., and Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., likewise pulled their support Monday, though Gallego stopped short of urging Platner to suspend his campaign.

PLATNER CONTROVERSIES FUEL SPECULATION ABOUT LITTLE-KNOWN MAINE BALLOT REPLACEMENT PROVISION

The mounting pressure for an end to his Senate bid began after Maine resident Jenny Racicot accused Platner of raping her nearly five years ago, telling Politico and CNN that he entered her home uninvited while intoxicated and forced himself on her despite her repeated attempts to stop him.

Platner denied the allegation, saying in a statement he was "taking the time to reflect on the best path forward" for his campaign.

The Marine Corps veteran and oyster farmer emerged this year as one of the Democratic Party's fastest-rising political figures, drawing national attention for his populist message and outsider image.

As his profile has grown, so has scrutiny of his past conduct.

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In recent months, his campaign has been engulfed by a series of controversies, including the resurfacing of sexually explicit messages, offensive social media posts, a tattoo linked to Nazi symbolism and campaign staff turmoil.

Despite all this, his odds of remaining in the race after smooth sailing to primary election victory last month remained high. But the most recent rape allegation has reversed that, at least on Kalshi.