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STEVE FORBES: Chuck Schumer has a beef with beef, but doesn’t even know how to grill it

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:00:21 -0400

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has never worked a cattle ranch. He has never run a meatpacking plant. And after America saw his backyard grilling stunt, it is fair to ask whether he knows how to properly grill a cheeseburger.

Yet as Americans prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence this July 4th — in the heart of summer grilling season — Schumer wants Washington to muscle its way into the U.S. beef industry.

What could possibly go wrong?

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Plenty.

Schumer’s so-called "Family Grocer and Farmer Relief Act" is classic Washington liberalism: find a real problem, misdiagnose the cause, prescribe a cure that makes things worse and call it "relief." We have seen this in healthcare, energy, housing and education. Politicians create or worsen a crisis, blame private enterprise and then use the pain as an excuse to expand government control.

Beef prices are high. Families feel it every time they go to the grocery store. But the cause is not a cartoon conspiracy by meatpackers. It is basic economics: strong demand and tight supply.

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Retail beef demand rose sharply from 2019 to 2025, while America’s cattle herd fell to its lowest level in 75 years. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, total U.S. cattle and calves stood at just 86.2 million head as of Jan. 1, 2026. That is down sharply from Jan. 1, 2019, when the inventory stood at 94.8 million head, a drop of roughly 9% in seven years. The 2025 calf crop was a record-low 32.9 million head, the second consecutive year a new record low was set.

That is not price gouging. That is supply and demand.

For years, drought battered major cattle-producing states. Ranchers faced soaring feed, energy, land, labor and regulatory costs. Inflationary Biden-era policies — backed by Schumer and his allies — made everything more expensive for farmers, processors and consumers alike.

Now Schumer wants to punish the very supply chain families depend on.

Cattle are not widgets. Congress cannot pass a bill and produce more beef. Chickens can be raised for market in weeks. Beef cattle take years. From the birth of a heifer to the point where her offspring can ultimately enter beef production, the process can take roughly three years. That long cycle depends on weather, feed, financing, land, labor, trade policy and confidence that government will not suddenly change the rules midstream.

No Senate press conference can speed up biology.

The facts on meatpacking also demolish the Democratic price-gouging narrative. Beef packer margins in 2025 averaged a loss of roughly $138 per head. Tyson Foods reported an operating loss of more than $1 billion in its beef division that year. These are not the numbers of monopolists pocketing windfall profits. They are the numbers of a capital-intensive industry squeezed by the tightest cattle supply in more than three generations.

But Schumer’s bill ignores all that. It also ignores the damage done by years of anti-business policies imposed by the same politicians now pretending to be champions of consumers.

Instead of lowering costs, reducing regulatory barriers, encouraging investment, expanding processing capacity and keeping trade channels open, Schumer wants Washington to politically restructure the beef industry in the middle of a supply crunch.

That is economic malpractice.

Breaking up companies may make for good populist sound bites, but it is rarely clean, quick or cheap. In meat processing, forced restructuring would mean duplicated infrastructure, higher financing costs, stalled investment, litigation and uncertainty across the supply chain. The likely result: fewer efficiencies, less capacity, more risk and higher prices at the meat counter.

Wealthy shoppers buying prime cuts from boutique butchers may barely notice. Working families buying ground beef for burgers, tacos, meatloaf and weeknight dinners will.

There is a better way. Washington should reduce the cost pressures that made beef more expensive in the first place. Ease unnecessary regulatory burdens on farmers, ranchers and processors. Lower energy and transportation costs. Keep import and export markets open during changing supply cycles. Reduce tariff and input-cost pressures that make herd rebuilding slower and more expensive.

Most of all, let markets work.

And let us not forget who is pushing this scheme. Schumer’s allies include the Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., wing of politics — the same crowd that has spent years demonizing beef, lecturing Americans about what they eat, and flirting with Green New Deal ideas that would make food, fuel and electricity more expensive.

One day they tell us to eat less beef to save the planet. The next day they pretend to be shocked that beef is more expensive.

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America’s beef market will recover, but not if Washington turns a supply problem into a government-control problem. Herds can be rebuilt. Investment can return. Prices can ease. But that requires stability, lower costs and confidence — not politicians threatening to remake an entire industry for a campaign talking point.

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As America marks 250 years of independence, we should remember what made this country prosperous: private enterprise, property rights, limited government and free markets.

Chuck Schumer may not know how to grill a cheeseburger. But he should know enough not to burn down the beef industry.

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STEVE MOORE: Politicians are blaming the wrong villain for America’s rising food prices

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:00:14 -0400

When food prices rise, politicians and activists alike instinctively look for a villain to blame. Amid current instability, many will be tempted to settle on domestic manufacturers as the scapegoat for skyrocketing prices. This narrative might be politically convenient for some, but it gets the economics of global supply chains exactly backwards.

The real reason the price of key inputs in American food supply — like fertilizer — is rising is not corporate greed or mismanagement. It is a combination of global disruptions, geopolitical instability, and misguided government policies both here and abroad. All of these factors have come together to make it harder to produce the inputs on which American agriculture relies.

Fertilizer, for example, is one of the most important building blocks of the global food supply chain. Without it, crop yields fall. When crop yields fall, food production also declines, causing grocery bills to rise. Yet fertilizer does not appear out of thin air. It relies on a complex combination of materials such as sulfur, ammonia and phosphate rock.

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These raw materials are sourced from all corners of the world and rely on international transportation networks. Many of these supply chains are currently under significant stress.

The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine continues to disrupt key commodity markets and trade routes. Russia produced 7.5 million metric tons of sulfur last year, making it the third-largest producer in the world. This is because Russia is an oil-rich nation, and sulfur is a byproduct of oil refining. Lately, Ukrainian drone strikes on Russia’s oil and fertilizer infrastructure have drastically cut Russia’s ability to supply the world with sulfur. Russia’s ammonia exports have also fallen to roughly 80% below pre-war levels.

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Tensions in the Middle East have only added to the uncertainty around energy production and shipping routes. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively at a standstill, roughly 16 million tons of fertilizer remain in limbo while geopolitical events remain unresolved. Additionally, roughly half of the world’s supply of sulfur transits the strait, adding more stress on key input costs.

When supplies of critical raw materials shrink and the cost of accessing them rises, prices for consumers will also naturally rise. As unfortunate as this is, it is not evidence of a market failure. On the contrary, this is the market responding to scarcity as it would in any other scenario. The bright economic minds of this administration must realize this.

If policymakers want to lower prices for Americans, it would be a mistake to punish producers. The answer is to find ways to increase supply, relieving the pressure created by global uncertainty.

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This starts with eliminating policies that unnecessarily raise costs for domestic manufacturers. Permitting delays, burdensome regulations, and restrictions on energy development all make it more difficult to produce fertilizer in the U.S. America has abundant resources and tremendous production capability. Policymakers should be doing everything possible to ensure American companies can source the raw materials they need right here at home.

At the same time, policymakers need to be clear-eyed about misguided trade practices. Whenever possible, we need to source inputs from a variety of trusted partners, both foreign and domestic, to help meet our domestic demand. Many overseas producers are facing the same squeeze. This would be akin to trying to fill an empty glass with an empty pitcher. The root problem remains.

Meanwhile, countries like China are exacerbating the issue with unfair trade practices of their own. China is the world’s second-largest exporter of fertilizer. However, China has restricted the export of fertilizer and its raw inputs, like sulfuric acid.

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American leaders must pursue a policy that promotes a level playing field and diversified supply chains that are not subject to global unrest. This is not only good economics but wise food security policy. If these issues persist until next year’s planting season, Americans will feel the sting even more than they have this year, when many farmers had already purchased their fertilizer in advance of these disruptions.

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The laws of economics have not changed. When supplies are constrained, prices rise. When food production and input supply rise again, prices will fall.

If Washington is serious about lowering food costs and ensuring America stays well fed, it needs to stop searching for scapegoats. Addressing this crisis requires a look at the root causes. A traffic jam can’t be fixed by blaming the car at the back of the line. The obstacles in the road need to be cleared. There is no shortage of obstacles to address. America’s leaders need to fix their gaze there.

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GINGRICH, JINDAL: Seniors deserve to age at home without scams draining Medicare dollars

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:00:05 -0400

One of the most important transformations in American healthcare is taking place outside hospitals and nursing homes.

Advances in artificial intelligence, telehealth, remote monitoring, home health services, and new care delivery models are making it possible for more Americans to receive high-quality care in the place they most want to be: their own homes.

For seniors, this transformation represents an extraordinary opportunity. Most older Americans want to remain in their homes, maintaining their independence and connection to family and community. Aging in place is not simply a personal preference. It is a matter of dignity and quality of life.

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President Donald Trump recognized this reality when he pledged to help seniors remain in their homes longer. Since returning to office, his administration has taken meaningful steps toward this goal. Earlier this year, President Trump signed legislation extending Medicare's Acute Hospital Care at Home program through 2030, allowing eligible seniors to receive hospital-level care without leaving their homes. His administration has continued implementation of the GUIDE dementia model, helping patients with Alzheimer's disease and related conditions remain at home longer while supporting family caregivers. It has also preserved Medicare telehealth flexibilities that allow more care to be delivered directly to patients rather than requiring unnecessary trips to hospitals and clinics.

Together, these initiatives point toward a broader vision for healthcare: bringing care to the patient rather than forcing patients into institutions. For many seniors, this means receiving care in a more comfortable setting while maintaining greater independence and stronger family connections.

Yet the success of home-based care depends on public confidence that these programs are operating as intended. Unfortunately, recent years have revealed that some of the very programs designed to help seniors remain independent have become attractive targets for fraud. Home health services, hospice care, personal care services, and other home-based benefits have increasingly been exploited by bad actors seeking to profit from Medicare and Medicaid.

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The examples are troubling. In Los Angeles County, investigators identified an extraordinary concentration of hospice and home health providers, including more than 100 hospices operating from a single office building. Investigators have also uncovered sophisticated home health fraud networks that repeatedly cycled the same Medicare beneficiaries among multiple agencies to generate new rounds of federal payments while avoiding traditional fraud detection systems.

While it’s not specific to eldercare, the recent announcement that more than 1 million people signed up for Obamacare benefits without valid Social Security numbers is alarming.

Every major expansion of healthcare benefits depends on public trust. If taxpayers conclude these programs are vulnerable to widespread waste and abuse, support for continued expansion will weaken, honest providers will face greater scrutiny, and seniors who rely on these services may ultimately pay the price.

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This is why President Trump's efforts to combat fraud deserve as much attention as his efforts to expand access.

The administration has launched major healthcare fraud investigations, established a government-wide anti-fraud task force chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance, expanded enforcement efforts in known fraud hotspots, and increased scrutiny of providers suspected of abusing federal healthcare programs. These efforts are not separate from the administration's broader commitment to helping seniors age in place. They are an essential part of making that vision sustainable.

The administration's six-month hospice enrollment moratorium should be viewed as an opportunity to strengthen the system. The objective is not to repeatedly extend temporary restrictions, but to use this period to improve provider screening, ownership verification, and oversight so legitimate providers can continue expanding access to care. Success should not be measured by the number of moratoria we impose. It should be measured by whether we build a system strong enough that we no longer need them.

Recent scandals also reveal a deeper challenge. The federal government provides most of the funding for these programs, but oversight responsibilities are divided among states, contractors, accrediting organizations, and multiple federal agencies. When hundreds of providers operate from the same address, suspicious ownership structures persist for years, or known fraud hotspots continue to expand unchecked, it should be clear who is responsible for identifying and investigating those risks.

Strengthening provider enrollment standards, verifying the true owners behind home health and hospice companies, and improving coordination among federal and state oversight agencies should all be important priorities moving forward. Regulators should also modernize fraud detection systems by looking not only at suspicious providers, but also at suspicious patterns of beneficiary enrollment and movement across multiple providers. Artificial intelligence systems could greatly help this effort. Seniors should receive clear notification whenever they are enrolled in home health or hospice services, making it far more difficult for fraudulent operators to exploit beneficiaries without their knowledge.

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America’s aging population will make home-based care increasingly important in the years ahead. President Trump deserves credit both for expanding these options and for recognizing that they must be protected from fraud if they are to achieve their full potential.

Helping more Americans remain in their homes as they age and protecting taxpayers from abuse are not competing priorities. They are two parts of the same mission. If we want more seniors to age with dignity, independence, and security, we must continue expanding home-based care while ensuring that these programs remain worthy of the public's trust.

Bobby Jindal was the governor of Louisiana from 2008-2016 and a candidate for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. He chairs the Center for a Healthy America at the America First Policy Institute.

Idaho mom who claimed vaccines killed her twin babies charged with murdering her kids

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 02:44:36 -0400

An Idaho mother who claimed her twins died last year after receiving vaccinations has now been charged with murder in connection with the death of the 18-month-olds.

Andrea Shaw, 23, was indicted on two counts of first-degree murder, the Payette Police Department announced last week. She was arrested in Boise on Tuesday.

Police previously said the boy and girl were found dead in a shared bed on May 1, 2025.

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Police did not publicly state the kids' cause of death, but an indictment filed in Payette accuses Shaw of killing her twin toddlers, Dallas and Tyson, by suffocation, according to KTVB.

Just days after their children died, Shaw and her husband appeared on a podcast funded by Children's Health Defense, an anti-vaccine group previously led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., in which she alleged that the twins became sick and died shortly after receiving three vaccinations.

Shaw's attorney, Joe Filicetti, said he still believes the children's deaths were linked to the vaccinations without providing evidence to support that claim.

"They were looking at it as a vaccine death, and that's still what I believe it to be," he told KTVB.

Filicetti also said Shaw recently gave birth to another baby prematurely through a cesarean section and that her husband is taking care of the child.

Shaw was initially held at the Ada County Jail before being extradited to Payette County. She is being held on a $2 million bond.

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She appeared virtually for her arraignment at the Payette County District court on Thursday.

During the hearing, the court read the charges and informed her of the potential penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty.

Accused Charlie Kirk assassin Tyler Robinson fights back as prosecutors' sprawling case comes into focus

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

PROVO, Utah – Tyler Robinson, the 23-year-old man accused of assassinating Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University last year, is due in court Monday for a week-long preliminary hearing that will determine whether prosecutors have enough evidence to move the case toward trial.

While in many cases, prosecutors secure a grand jury indictment behind closed doors and without giving defense lawyers a chance to challenge the evidence, Robinson was charged by information, meaning prosecutors must establish probable cause at a public preliminary hearing before the case can move to trial.

Defense attorneys will be able to cross-examine witnesses. But unlike an actual trial, there is a lower burden of proof. Prosecutors need to show probable cause for the charges against Robinson. They do not have to prove guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. That comes at trial, in front of a jury.

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Kirk, a 31-year-old father of two, was speaking at a TPUSA event in front of thousands of young people when a sniper's bullet fatally struck him in the neck. His widow and parents are expected to attend the hearing.

Prosecutors have alleged that investigators found Robinson's DNA on the trigger of the suspected murder weapon, his grandfather's Mauser rifle; a towel they found wrapped around it; three of the four bullets inside — and a screwdriver recovered near the suspected rooftop sniper's perch.

Digital evidence against Robinson is expected to include alleged confessions over text messages and the Discord communications app.

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Police recovered the rifle in a patch of woods near the UVU campus, along the suspect's escape route. Robinson is accused of sending text messages to his lover, Lance Twiggs, about wanting to retrieve the rifle, and law enforcement sources have said he is believed to have come face-to-face with an officer manning the perimeter nearby.

"Stuck in Orem for a little while longer yet," Robinson allegedly wrote in the hours after the murder. "Shouldn't be long until I can come home, but I gotta grab my rifle still."

Twiggs, whom Robinson allegedly left a handwritten note confessing to the crime, is cooperating with investigators and has not been charged.

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While the suspect's lover won't take the witness stand at the week-long preliminary hearing, prosecutors are expected to play a video of his interview with police.

While Robinson's defense played up the fact the ATF was unable to conclusively match the bullet that killed Kirk to the Mauser, analysts couldn't rule it out either. They found it was a consistent caliber and recovered a spent casing that did match.

Witnesses are also expected to place Robinson at the scene — when he lived a four-hour drive away in Washington, Utah.

In addition to allegedly shooting Kirk, he is also accused of witness tampering, committing a violent offense in the presence of a child, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury and obstruction of justice.

Prosecutors have alleged Robinson targeted Kirk because of his political views, tried to conceal the rifle and the clothes he wore during the shooting and urged Twiggs to delete incriminating messages, destroy the note and stay silent if police questioned him.

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Robinson has not yet entered a plea and won't be required to do so unless prosecutors prevail at the preliminary hearing.

The top charge against him, aggravated murder, carries the potential death penalty.

England stuns Mexico 3-2 in instant World Cup classic, hands team first World Cup loss at Estadio Azteca

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:37:37 -0400

One of the tournament's instant classics unfolded Sunday at the historic Estadio Azteca, where 87,500 screaming fans created a deafening atmosphere.

England weathered the storm, silencing the sea of green with a ruthless finishing display to escape with a dramatic 3-2 victory.

Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane combined to crush El Tri's World Cup dreams. El Tri is a popular nickname for the Mexican men's national team.

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In a stunning two-minute span in the first half, Bellingham struck twice, leaving Mexico's defense completely shell-shocked.

But before halftime, Julian Quinones gave El Tri a lifeline. He buried a clutch goal, trimming the deficit to 2-1.

The second half was as electric as the first.

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In the 53rd minute, England went down to 10 men after Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card. Suddenly, the momentum appeared to swing in Mexico's favor.

Instead of capitalizing on the numerical advantage, however, Mexico gifted England a golden opportunity.

Goalkeeper Raul Rangel recklessly brought down Anthony Gordon inside the penalty area, conceding a spot kick. Captain Harry Kane calmly stepped up and buried the penalty, restoring England's two-goal cushion at 3-1.

Still, Mexico refused to fold.

In the 69th minute, the referee pointed to the spot once again, awarding Mexico a penalty after another frantic sequence inside England's box.

Raul Jimenez confidently converted, cutting the deficit to 3-2 and setting up an edgy finish.

From there, England dug in, despite being down to 10 men. England absorbed wave after wave of Mexican pressure before hanging on for a gritty 3-2 victory, advancing to the quarterfinals against Norway.

England booked its place in the quarterfinals and handed Mexico its first-ever World Cup defeat at the Estadio.

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Traveling England supporters celebrated by belting out "Wonderwall" one more time.

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NYC health officials warn Central Park visitors after Legionnaires’ outbreak grows on Upper East Side

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:19:21 -0400

A Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on Manhattan’s Upper East Side has grown to 14 confirmed cases, New York City health officials said Sunday.

The cases are tied to ZIP codes 10028, 10128 and 10075, covering parts of the Upper East Side, including Yorkville and Carnegie Hill. At least one patient lives, works or recently visited the 10075 area, health officials said.

Officials are also urging anyone who spent time along the east side of Central Park between East 76th Street and East 97th Street to watch for flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, chills and muscle aches.

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"I want to acknowledge the NYC Health Department’s staff of epidemiologists, water ecologists, community health workers, and many more who spent the last few days working to keep New Yorkers on the Upper East Side informed and safe," NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin said in a statement.

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. People can become infected by breathing in contaminated water droplets, and the illness can be dangerous — even deadly — without quick treatment.

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The source of the outbreak remains under investigation. Officials say they are testing cooling towers in the affected area as a possible source, though no specific source has been identified.

Cooling towers, often found on rooftops, can release mist carrying Legionella bacteria. The Health Department said all cooling towers in the affected area are being tested.

The cluster was first announced Thursday, when only two cases had been confirmed. The area of investigation has since expanded as more illnesses were reported.

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"We identified the cluster early when there were just two confirmed cases, and we’ve acted swiftly and decisively, setting holiday plans aside to step up for our fellow New Yorkers. There is more work to do in the days ahead as we learn more about the source of exposure and confirmed cases," Martin said.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the outbreak is not tied to building plumbing or indoor air conditioning units, and residents in the area can safely drink tap water, bathe, shower, cook and use their AC at home.

Officials said they will continue providing updates as more information becomes available.

"Please contact a health care provider immediately if you live, work or visited the area since late June and are experiencing flu-like symptoms, such as cough, fever or difficulty breathing," Mamdani wrote on X.

Last summer, a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Central Harlem led to more than 100 confirmed illnesses, according to FOX 5.

Australian mother healing with 'beautiful messages' after losing arm to shark attack

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 09:13:00 -0400

Leah Stewart, an Australian mother and teacher who lost an arm after a shark attack at Sydney’s Coogee Beach, has been reading messages from supporters around the world during sleepless nights as she continues her long recovery, her family said.

"We’ve been sharing some of the beautiful messages we’ve received with Leah and she’s loved them, finding inspiration from the care and love you’ve all shared," her brother, Joshua Stewart, wrote in a GoFundMe update on Sunday.

"Leah has had some challenging days but has found real strength from your kindness and support," he added.

Leah Stewart has struggled with sleep in her recovery and has leaned on the wave of support from family, friends and strangers.

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"Since the incident Leah has had difficulty sleeping, and on those nights she’s been reading back through your messages, not only from her family and community in Australia and her whānau in New Zealand, but also from people all across the world," he wrote, using the Maori word for family. "They’ve given her real comfort and strength."

Stewart, mother to a 1-year-old daughter and passionate teacher, was attacked June 13 while on a morning swim close to shore and within the flags at Coogee Beach, according to her family. She suffered life-threatening injuries, including multiple bites across her arms and legs, lacerations, fractures and extreme blood loss.

She was placed on life support, put under a medically induced coma and underwent multiple surgeries in the days after the attack. Her treatment required the amputation of one arm, and the family said more surgeries were scheduled as doctors worked to save her life and stabilize her condition.

Stewart, who woke up from her 10-day coma after doctors reduced her sedation, told her mother and partner, Fernando, "I love you." Her brother said at the time that her first thoughts were with her young daughter, August.

SHARK ATTACK SURVIVOR WAKES FROM 10-DAY COMA AND SHARES FIRST WORDS WITH FAMILY AT HER HOSPITAL BEDSIDE

"Leah has a long road ahead," Joshua Stewart wrote after she briefly woke, calling the moment a hopeful first step in her recovery.

Joshua Stewart said the family wanted to apologize for delays in responding to supporters, explaining they have had issues with the GoFundMe messaging system.

"Leah is beyond overwhelmed at the amazing support she has received and that her story has resonated with so many people," he wrote. "Thank you!"

The fundraiser was launched to help Stewart, her partner and their young daughter through what her family described as a heartbreaking situation. The money will support her recovery, prosthetics, rehabilitation, ongoing care and the major adjustments she will need as she works toward returning to life as a mother.

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Her family also thanked the lifesavers, first responders, helicopter crew and medical team at St. Vincent’s Hospital who helped care for Stewart after the attack.

"As a family we are shocked and devastated that this could happen to our beloved partner, daughter and mother who is so full of life and energy," Joshua Stewart wrote.

Pilot declares mayday before seaplane comes down in New York City’s East River

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:06:01 -0400

Eight people were rescued after a seaplane made a hard landing in New York City's East River on Sunday afternoon, prompting a swift emergency response from firefighters after the aircraft came down near the city's only seaplane terminal, officials said.

The New York City Fire Department told Fox News Digital it received a call at 12:01 p.m. reporting a plane in the water near the NY Skyport at East 23rd Street and FDR Drive in Manhattan.

Fire crews arrived to find the seaplane upright in the water. FDNY units removed all eight people aboard before the aircraft was towed back to a nearby dock, the department said.

Two civilians suffered minor injuries but declined medical attention at the scene, according to the FDNY. No additional injuries were immediately reported.

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The Federal Aviation Administration identified the aircraft as a Kodiak 100 seaplane and told Fox News Digital the pilot made a hard landing in the East River at about noon local time, causing a wing strut to snap.

The aircraft departed East Hampton Airport on Long Island and was headed to the Skyport seaplane terminal in Manhattan, according to The New York Times and CNN.

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The NY Skyport on Manhattan's East Side is New York City's only seaplane terminal, serving scheduled and charter flights to destinations throughout the Northeast.

The FAA said eight people were aboard the aircraft, which is registered as N726SH. The agency said it is investigating the incident and noted the information released Sunday is preliminary and subject to change.

Air traffic control recordings captured the moments surrounding the incident, including the pilot declaring a mayday before the aircraft came down in the river. Separate radio traffic captured a New York City Police Department helicopter responding to reports of a "plane down in the water."

HELICOPTER REPORTS NEAR MISS WITH RC PLANE NEAR JFK AFTER JETBLUE DRONE STRIKE

Authorities have not identified the pilot or passengers, and it was not immediately clear what led to the hard landing.

Video from the scene showed first responders surrounding the aircraft as it floated upright in the East River while rescue crews worked to remove those aboard. Additional video showed the seaplane being towed back toward the dock after the rescue operation concluded.

The incident prompted a large emergency response to the East River waterfront as FDNY marine units and other first responders converged on the area.

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The FAA directed questions regarding the people on board to local authorities. Fox News Digital has reached out to the New York City Police Department for additional information.

How to watch USA vs Belgium: Live stream the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:00:40 -0400

Momentum is in full gear for Team USA following their win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32.

And what was originally a bittersweet ending in the San Francisco Bay Area due to the red card to striker Folarin Balogun has since changed thanks to FIFA’s announcement that the USMNT star will be able to play in the Round of 16 against Belgium on Monday night.

Balogun’s controversial red card, which came in the 64th minute of the 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, changed the trajectory of the USMNT’s hopes to make a World Cup Final run. After all, Balogun has been the perfect striker for this squad since the start of the tournament, securing his third World Cup goal in the Round of 32.

WATCH THE WORLD CUP FINAL ON FOX ONE

FIFA MAKES FINAL RULING ON US SOCCER STAR FOLARIN BALOGUN'S CONTROVERSIAL RED CARD SUSPENSION

However, Balogun will now be available for the U.S. in a stunning twist following the uproar over his red card.

The Athletic, which first reported Balogun’s playing status on Sunday, noted that part of FIFA’s disciplinary code is "the judicial body may decide to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure."

"If the person benefiting from a suspended sanction commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked by the judicial body and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement," the rule added.

FOX Sports also confirmed that Balogun would be able to play. The report noted that the play should not have been flagged to head referee Raphael Claus, who ultimately gave Balogun the red card after a VAR review.

WATCH USA VS BELGIUM

In turn, head coach Mauricio Pochettino will be able to run with his regular starting XI instead of having to figure out what to do about Balogun.

On the other side, Belgium was 10 minutes plus stoppage time away from a shocker against Senegal in the Round of 32. Senegal owned a 2-0 lead late in the second half, but Belgium was able to force extra time with some clutch goals from Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans.

BELGIUM COMPLETES STUNNING WORLD CUP COMEBACK AGAINST SENEGAL TO SET UP POTENTIAL SHOWDOWN WITH USA

In extra time, just before a penalty shootout appeared to be the only way to solve the deadlock, a foul was committed by Senegal in their own box, and Tielemans was awarded a penalty to decide the match. The veteran didn’t squander the opportunity, and Belgium kept their World Cup alive.

Now, both these squads will meet in Seattle, which was an electric atmosphere for the USMNT’s victory over Australia in the group stage. It’s expected to be even more raucous, as the U.S. aims to do what only one team in its history had done prior – reach the quarterfinals.

Here's how to watch the game, including start time, TV information and streaming options.

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How to watch United States vs Belgium

When: Monday, July 6 at 8 p.m. ET

Where : Seattle Stadium, Seattle, Washington

TV: FOX

Stream: Watch on FOX One and FOX Sports

Georgia teacher receives almost $300K settlement over Charlie Kirk assassination post

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:00:11 -0400

Former Georgia teacher Michelle Mickens settled her lawsuit with the Oglethorpe County School District on Wednesday after claiming she was unfairly punished over quotes related to Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk after his assassination.

In October, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) filed a lawsuit on behalf of Mickens after she was placed on indefinite leave and reportedly encouraged to resign for making controversial comments about Kirk's assassination on her private Facebook page in September.

"I think it's worth it. I think it's worth to have a cost of, unfortunately, some gun deaths every single year so that we can have the Second Amendment to protect our other God-given rights.- Charlie Kirk," her initial post read.

MARYLAND TEACHER FACES CALLS FOR RESIGNATION OVER CONTROVERSIAL CHARLIE KIRK MEME

Mickens later took part in a discussion with a Facebook friend who disagreed with her post, where she condemned political violence but added that the world was "safer" without Kirk.

"Yeah, you took this way too far. You make a lot of horrible assumptions here, but that says more about you than it does about me. I don’t condone violence of any kind, and I certainly don’t condone this, but he was a horrible person, a fascist full of hate for anyone who was different," Mickens wrote.

Her post continued, "While I’m sad that we live in a country where gun violence is an epidemic, the world is a bit safer without him. I didn’t respect him at all, and he’s part of the hatred and vitriolic language we hear so much now. I pray that without him, people can be kinder and more tolerant to one another."

MIKE DAVIS: CHICAGOLAND, WHERE TEACHERS CAN SUPPORT CHARLIE KIRK'S KILLING, BUT NOT ICE

After a former classmate shared the post across X, Mickens was called to the office to address a complaint regarding her comments. Mickens claimed that while the principal and superintendent initially suggested she delete the post and issue an apology, she was later asked to remain home with access to her school emails revoked.

According to records obtained by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Mickens received approximately $270,420 for "alleged emotional distress" as well as $17,080 to cover legal fees. Mickens also agreed to not seek employment at the district again.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Oglethorpe County School District superintendent and SPLC for comment.

PROFESSOR FIGHTING DISMISSAL FOR CALLING CHARLIE KIRK A 'NAZI' HANDED LEGAL WIN, FUELING FREE SPEECH DEBATE

In a press release after the settlement, SPLC senior supervising attorney Sam Boyd said, "We are pleased to reach a mutually amicable settlement of this matter. As courts across the country have recognized in other cases involving firings over comments about Charlie Kirk, and many other topics, ‘public school employees, including teachers, have a constitutionally protected right to free speech.’"

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In the immediate days following Kirk's assassination at Utah Valley University, several teachers faced suspension and even termination for social media comments that justified or celebrated Kirk's death.

Since then, some teachers have been reinstated following controversial statements or lawsuits.

Erling Haaland fires Norway past Brazil to end up in World Cup quarterfinals for first time in history

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:41:55 -0400

The Viking row continues on at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and it’s the superstar Erling Haaland who every Norwegian can thank for that after another masterful performance Sunday against Brazil.

Norway is moving on to its first-ever quarterfinals at the World Cup after Haaland scored twice in the 2-1 victory over Brazil, which heads home earlier than they likely expected.

But this tournament has proven Haaland, no matter how many touches he gets on the ball, is just like Thanos: he’s inevitable.

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Norway, which had grade-A chances throughout the match, as did Brazil including a key penalty shot very early on, found yet another in the box when a short cross came across the goal front. The Brazil defense lost track of Haaland for a split second, and that’s all the 6-foot-5 Norwegian needed to leap and flick his head onto the ball, which went past goalkeeper Allison for the go-ahead goal.

It was the 79th minute of the match, and it felt like that was finally the decider in a back-and-forth bout between these two countries.

KYLIAN MBAPPÉ'S SEVENTH GOAL OF THE WORLD CUP LIFTS FRANCE PAST PARAGUAY IN PHYSICAL ROUND OF 16 MATCH

Both keepers, including Norway’s Ørjan Nyland, had a tremendous match. But Nyland’s save on a penalty kick by Bruno Guimarães in the 14th minute changed the trajectory of this match.

Many wondered why Vini Jr., a superstar who had four goals in the World Cup before this match, handed the ball to Guimarães to take his first career penalty for Brazil. And they were justified considering the result.

Brazil had other threats on Norway, including a dangerous cross of the boot of Gabriel Martinelli in the first half, but Nyland once again kept the door slammed shut with a 0-0 draw.

Haaland’s breakthrough late in the second half turned Norway into a defensive-minded squad, while Brazil, which had subbed in Neymar Jr. to the delight of the sold-out crowd in New Jersey, was trying desperately to tie things up again.

But leave it to the Manchester City superstar striker to find an opening and exploit it.

Haaland sealed victory for Norway when he inched the ball forward with his left foot just outside Brazil’s box and fired a low strike to the right side past the sprawling Allison to make it 2-0 at the 90th minute. There was no pomp and circumstance by Haaland, though his teammates screamed and jumped on his back.

This is what he does – score goals. He now has seven in this World Cup, tying him with France's Kylian Mbappé and Argentina's Lionel Messi as they contend for the Golden Boot Award as the top goalscorer in the tournament.

Brazil was awarded another penalty shot shortly after Haaland’s second goal, which Neymar took this time. After he and Nyland were seen jawing back and forth, Neymar buried the attempt, which was ultimately a consolation goal. He and Nyland exchanged words again, but Norway was the only ones delighted when the whistle blew at New York/New Jersey Stadium.

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This is Norway’s first World Cup in 28 years, and they’ve done more than just represent their country well. They’ve taken down a five-time champion in Brazil to keep their title hopes alive, and Haaland continues to play a large role in making it happen for his squad.

It’s why there was no other person to lead that Viking row in the stands after the match, as Haaland gleefully banged the drum to orchestrate one of the best celebrations this tournament has seen throughout a fantastic World Cup.

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Ex-NFL Pro Bowler Marcellus Wiley arrested, charged with domestic battery during Fourth of July

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:28:39 -0400

Marcellus Wiley, the former NFL Pro Bowler and sports broadcaster, was arrested on charges of domestic battery on Saturday.

Wiley was arrested by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, which court records showed. He is currently being held without bond.

There have been no additional details provided on Wiley’s arrest.

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This arrest of Wiley, 51, comes after a recent Rolling Stone article, which cited accusations of sexual assault by four women in April 2026.

FOUR MORE WOMEN ACCUSE FORMER NFL PLAYER OF SEXUAL ASSAULT AMID EXISTING ALLEGATIONS: 'BLATANT LIES'

Wiley was also previously sued by three women for allegedly raping them while at Columbia, where he played his college football. He denied those allegations on his "More To It with Marcellus Wiley" podcast, claiming to have evidence to prove what he called "alleged misrepresentations."

Wiley had also called the allegations while at Columbia "B.S."

Wiley’s wife is Annemarie Wiley, who used to star on "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills."

The Rolling Stone article notes two of the women who claim Wiley sexually assaulted them came between 1995-1999.

There was another woman who claimed that Wiley groomed her since she was 13 years old during his time playing for the Buffalo Bills. Then, she claims that Wiley raped her when she was 18 in Dallas. She claims to have been flown out by Wiley as he was playing for the Cowboys, per Rolling Stone.

"Marcellus Wiley raped me on my 18th birthday, after grooming me from the age of 13," the victim wrote, adding that he referred to her as ‘little momma.’ "If Columbia had properly pursued the complaints… I would never have been groomed and raped."

Also, a woman who used to be a production assistant at ESPN – Wiley has worked as a broadcaster for ESPN and FOX Sports – alleged Wiley deceived her about joining him in a hotel room for a working meeting in 2009. But she claims h sexually assaulted her during that time.

"The assault was devastating to me, and I will live with the effects to this day," the fourth woman wrote in a court filing, per Rolling Stone.

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Wiley was the 52nd overall pick of the 1997 NFL Draft out of Columbia, landing with the Bills where he would play for his first four NFL seasons.

But Wiley earned his first and only Pro Bowl nod in 2001 with the San Diego Chargers, where he would star for three years. He also played with the Cowboys and Jacksonville Jaguars before his playing career came to an end after the 2006 season.

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WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield finds new tag partner in social media company focused on sports

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:22:22 -0400

WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield (JBL) is throwing his hat into the social media ring after decades in pro wrestling and is doing so with BZZR.

BZZR is one of the newest social media platforms to hit the internet vowing to unite sports fans and cut out the noise. The company has already bolstered its roster with famous names in pro wrestling, including MVP, Kayla Becker and Dwayne Swayze.

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

Layfield told Fox News Digital he decided to partner with BZZR after learning that his favorite baseball team, the Texas Rangers, were doing business with the company.

"I got a good friend, I call him ‘Shooter’ (Chris) Dunn. He’s been with WWE before. He’s now with BZZR. BZZR seems like a great platform," he said. "I’m a huge Texas Rangers fan and the Rangers have partnered with BZZR. My grandfather was blind but before he passed away and for several years he used to listen to the Rangers on the radio every afternoon and every night and I’d go over and sit there with him.

"I’m huge Ranger fan because of that and they’re working with BZZR so it kinda got my interest because the Texas Rangers are involved with them but it seems like such a wonderful platform so I’m glad to be involved."

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Layfield said one feature spoke to him specifically – keeping the platform about sports only.

BZZR calls itself "the world’s first streaming and social media platform built exclusively for sports without any nonsense or slop."

"Isn’t that amazing? You actually go on something and you don’t expect anyone to tell you, ‘You suck’ or you ‘look stupid’ or you don’t know anything about anything. ‘Remember back in the 1930s there a big,’ No. I don’t actually remember because I have a life," he told Fox News Digital.

"It’s unbelievable. I don’t know what you do with the social media but the one thing BZZR is doing, which is great, I think you have to have your name on there, you have to have your picture. The people that hide behind psyedonyms or can become keyword warriors – it gives people a voice that some should not have a voice. Some should but some should not."

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Layfield was the 20th Triple Crown champion in WWE history and 10th Grand Slam champion. He’s also appeared as a commentator for AAA Lucha Libre Worldwide.

Josh Shapiro warns Democrats face ‘battle over what we believe in’ after socialist’s upset primary victories

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:00:00 -0400

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said in a Sunday "State of the Union" interview that Democrats must confront a fight over the party's direction after New York Democratic socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier defeated Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., in their party's primary.

"I think what our party has to go through that will be very healthy and something we’ve not really done since the 1992 election cycle is to have a battle over what we believe in," Shapiro said. "To have a battle over the ideas that we are going to hold on to and campaign on and then deliver on as a way to make people’s lives better."

Shapiro was asked by CNN’s Dana Bash what message he took from Democratic voters in New York choosing three candidates backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, whom Bash described as "far left and Democratic socialist candidates."

BILL MAHER'S DIRE MIDTERM ELECTION WARNING TO DEMS AFTER 'REALLY CRAZY' SOCIALISTS WIN PRIMARIES

"Those were races in individual districts in a whole other state," Shapiro said. "I think you’re seeing very different-looking congressional races and certainly different Democratic candidates here in Pennsylvania."

The Pennsylvania Democrat said candidates who generate activist enthusiasm will now have to show they can govern.

"I think what is important are the people who are making a lot of noise, who are engaging in these performative politics, have to now figure out how to deliver results," Shapiro said.

FETTERMAN UNLEASHES ON 'DIRTBAG' WING OF DEMS AFTER FAR-LEFT VICTORIES: 'ORGY OF SOCIALISM'

Shapiro said campaign rhetoric was not enough for voters facing economic pressure, healthcare concerns and cost-of-living issues.

"It’s one thing to speak in platitudes during a campaign," Shapiro said. "It’s a whole other thing to actually deliver for people who are genuinely hurting."

When asked specifically about Chevalier, Shapiro said voters in her district made their choice but made clear he had little in common with her politics.

MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALIST IN HOT SEAT AGAIN OVER DELETED POSTS PRAISING COMMUNISM, MARXISM: 'CRAZYPANTS'

"Her district voted for her, but I have profound differences from that particular candidate," Shapiro said. "And she’s not someone who seemingly I would agree with on many things or that we share similar values."

Chevalier defeated Espaillat, D-N.Y., after the Associated Press projected her the winner of the Democratic primary. With more than 86% of the expected vote counted, Chevalier had 49.4% of the vote to Espaillat's 45.9%, according to NY1.

The district includes parts of Upper Manhattan, including Harlem, and parts of the Bronx. Chevalier, a Democratic Socialists of America member, was one of Mamdani's endorsed congressional candidates.

Chevalier told supporters after her primary win that the result marked a political turning point for the district.

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"I know that each of us are seeing what I’m seeing right now: a new dawn for this district," Avila Chevalier said, according to NY1.

Her campaign website lists priorities including "Abolish ICE," "Babies, Not Bombs," "Medicare-for-all," "Housing for All," "Quality Education" and "Fighting Corporate Greed."

Avila Chevalier has pushed back on criticism over past social media posts, saying the focus should be on the district’s future.

"My opponent wants to live in the past," Avila Chevalier told CNN, according to The National News Desk. "I have grown considerably since in the years since these tweets, and I am focused on our community and our community’s future."

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Shapiro also said Democrats should focus on nominees who can turn campaign promises into results.

"I think we, as a party, need to find our way toward candidates who actually can deliver for people and make their lives better," Shapiro said.

Delta flight struck by fireworks while landing in Chicago on Fourth of July, FAA investigates

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:58:57 -0400

A Delta Air Lines flight was struck by a fireworks mortar while descending into Chicago Midway International Airport on the Fourth of July, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

Delta Flight 1076 landed safely at Midway around 8:30 p.m. local time Saturday after the crew reported that a fireworks mortar struck the aircraft shortly before landing, the FAA said in a statement.

The flight departed Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta at 7:51 p.m. ET and landed at Midway at 8:33 p.m. CT, a spokesperson for Delta Air Lines told Fox News Digital.

HELICOPTER REPORTS NEAR MISS WITH RC PLANE NEAR JFK AFTER JETBLUE DRONE STRIKE

The Airbus A319 was carrying 52 passengers and six crew members. No injuries were reported, Delta said.

"The flight safely landed and taxied to the gate," a Delta spokesperson said.

The crew did not declare an emergency, and the aircraft landed without incident, according to the airline. Delta said mechanics inspected the aircraft after it arrived at the gate and found no damage.

FAA PROBES JFK NEAR MISS AFTER ANOTHER RECENT CLOSE CALL FUELS SCRUTINY OF AIR TRAFFIC SAFETY

Chicago police told CBS Chicago the firework caused minor paint damage to the aircraft and that the plane was undergoing additional inspections to determine whether it sustained further damage. Delta, however, told Fox News Digital that mechanics found no damage during its post-flight inspection.

The FAA said it will investigate the incident.

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It remains unclear where the fireworks were launched from or whether authorities have identified those responsible. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Chicago Department of Aviation and the Chicago Police Department for additional information.

Delta said it will fully cooperate with the FAA and other authorities as they review what happened.

Country singer drops 70 pounds, sets new weight loss goal after years of breathlessness on stage

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:42:14 -0400

Nate Smith is a new man thanks to his weight loss journey.

The country music star admitted he used to feel out of breath performing simple tasks, but losing more than 70 pounds has given him his life back.

While attending the Sports Illustrated and Tight End University's Tight Ends & Friends Concert at The Pinnacle in Nashville last month, the "Bulletproof" singer told People magazine he has a new goal in mind.

BILLY RAY CYRUS CHEATED DEATH DURING SEPSIS, VOCAL PARALYSIS BATTLE BEFORE STAGING MUSIC COMEBACK

"I think I want to get under 200 lbs.," Smith said. "So I was like 275 lbs., somewhere in that world. But I want to get down to like 185 lbs. again."

When asked what motivates the "Whiskey on You" singer to pursue a healthier lifestyle, Smith said he wanted to be able to perform at his best for his fans.

LIONEL RICHIE REASSURES FANS HE IS 'DOING WELL' AFTER DIZZY SPELL FORCED CONCERT CANCELLATIONS

"Keeping the energy on stage and making sure I do that, because I think that takes care of the fans," Smith noted before adding, "I just feel better. It's nice to be able to wear clothes that I like."

While referring to his red carpet attire, Smith said, "This is a large. I've been double X for the last five or six years, so I'm feeling really good."

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The "World on Fire" musician boasted about the endless positive benefits from his change.

"I don't sweat anymore, which is amazing," Smith said. "I used to be totally out of breath tying my shoes."

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He added, "I can jump around a lot more."

Following a medical scare in 2024, Smith began addressing health issues including overeating and drinking too much. Within a few months, the singer was already down nearly 50lbs. from simply reducing his daily caloric intake.

"I still struggle with some binge eating," Smith also told the outlet at the time. "And if I want to have it, I'm going to have it.

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"But I want to find a way to make it a treat versus a lifestyle thing. If I decide I'm going to have mac and cheese, it's okay."

He added, "I'm not even close to my goal. But I'm way happier where I'm at, and I feel like better about the way I look."

Lionel Richie reassures fans he is 'doing well' after dizzy spell forced concert cancellations

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:10:57 -0400

Lionel Richie thanked his fans for their support after suffering a health scare on stage which forced him to cancel a string of shows.

Richie, 77, smiled widely and danced on stage in a carousel of concert images posted on Instagram over the weekend.

"Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love," he wrote online. "I’m doing well, and I’m grateful for all of you.

LIONEL RICHIE HOSPITALIZED AFTER OPENING NIGHT HEALTH SCARE TRIGGERS CONCERT CANCELLATIONS

"Pittsburgh and Detroit were an absolute joy. The energy, the dancing, the faces in the crowd… we made real memories together."

Richie added, "See you in Toronto... let’s party all night long!"

Nearly one week ago, Richie was singing a less optimistic tune after he was forced to postpone shows from falling "dizzy" during his tour-opener in Minnesota.

COUNTRY STAR RADNEY FOSTER CANCELS UPCOMING SHOWS AFTER SERIOUS INFECTION SENDS HIM TO THE ICU

The United Center announced at the time that Richie's scheduled concerts in Chicago, and Columbus, Ohio, would no longer take place due to doctors' orders.

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"Under advisement by doctors to rest and return to full health, Lionel Richie has postponed his next two shows," the Instagram post read in part. "Lionel is heartbroken to postpone these two shows and cannot wait to be back performing for his fans."

A St. Paul Fire Department public information officer confirmed to Fox News Digital last month that an individual was "transported from Grand Casino Arena late on June 24, 2026, to a local hospital by Saint Paul Fire-EMS."

ROD STEWART CALLED 'TONE-DEAF' FOR ATTENDING WORLD CUP GAME A DAY CANCELING CONCERT DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES

No additional details about the nature of Richie's health scare have been released.

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The "American Idol" judge was nearly an hour into his concert at the Grand Casino Arena when fans noticed a change in Richie.

While performing his upbeat classic "Dancing on the Ceiling," Richie paused and took a seat on a platform before later revealing to the crowd that he was feeling lightheaded, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune.

"When you're feeling dizzy, sit your a-- down," he joked.

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In a fan video, Richie transitioned to the piano, where he delivered a seated performance of "Three Times a Lady." Shortly afterward, he stepped away for what audience members initially believed would be a brief intermission.

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Fans waited nearly 40 additional minutes before receiving an official update of the show cancellation, according to the outlet.

Fox News Digital's Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report.

Toddler declared dead after near-drowning was found alive in hospital morgue hours later, police say

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:55:05 -0400

Arizona police have recommended felony child abuse charges against the parents of an 18-month-old boy who investigators say nearly drowned after they admitted using marijuana and failed to properly supervise him during a Super Bowl party earlier this year. The child later drew national attention after he was mistakenly declared dead before being found alive hours later in a hospital morgue.

The Maricopa County Attorney's Office is reviewing the Gilbert Police Department's recommendation that Vincent Fiordilino's parents face felony child abuse charges, according to AZFamily. No charges have been filed.

Investigators say Vincent disappeared from his parents' view during the gathering before guests found him floating face down in a backyard swimming pool. According to a police report obtained by AZFamily, both parents later admitted to smoking marijuana during the party. The report alleges Vincent's fall into the pool went unnoticed because both parents were impaired by marijuana and/or other mind-altering substances.

After Vincent was pulled from the water, first responders transported him to Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, where a doctor pronounced him dead that evening, according to police. The case took an extraordinary turn hours later when medical personnel discovered the toddler was alive and breathing after he had already been transferred to the hospital's morgue around 7:23 p.m., according to police. Vincent was immediately airlifted to Phoenix Children's Hospital for treatment.

MAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER, RELEASED AFTER ALLEGEDLY FORCING TODDLER INTO CROCODILE ENCLOSURE AT ZOO

The police report alleges responding officers and Vincent's parents questioned whether the toddler had actually died before he was pronounced dead, saying they believed he was still showing signs of life. Hospital staff reportedly told them Vincent was exhibiting agonal breathing, an involuntary reflex that can occur near death.

According to the report, a nurse later reported detecting a pulse after the child had been pronounced dead. Detectives allege the physician who made the initial determination maintained his assessment was correct and instructed hospital staff to stop lifesaving measures despite concerns from Vincent's parents and responding officers that the toddler still appeared to be breathing. Police did not recommend criminal charges against the physician, according to AZFamily.

EX-NFL PLAYER DOUG MARTIN'S FAMILY SUE OAKLAND POLICE, ALLEGE RESTRAINT ASPHYXIA IN FATAL MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

According to AZFamily, a Dignity Health spokesperson said the hospital conducted a review following the incident.

"This is a heartbreaking situation. We immediately conducted a thorough review of all aspects of the care that was provided to learn what happened and to make meaningful changes to strengthen our care," the spokesperson said in a statement. "Out of respect for the patient's privacy, we cannot discuss details. We continue to work with the family and their representative. Patient safety and exceptional care is our highest priority."

A GoFundMe campaign created for the family described Vincent as a "miracle baby" after he survived the ordeal.

"Vincent was declared deceased," the fundraiser says. "His devastated parents were sent home in unimaginable grief. But God had other plans. A little after 11:30 p.m., the family received a call no one expected: the medical examiner had detected a faint heartbeat."

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According to the fundraiser, Vincent's kidneys, lungs and liver began shutting down after he arrived at Phoenix Children's Hospital. An MRI initially identified two small areas of potential brain damage, but later testing reportedly found no brain damage. The fundraiser says Vincent continues to require extensive therapy, ongoing medical monitoring and treatment as he recovers.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, Gilbert Police Department, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center and Phoenix Children's Hospital for comment.

Belgium 'considering all possible options' after FIFA clears Team USA's Folarin Balogun

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:36:49 -0400

Belgium is crying foul after FIFA cleared USMNT star Folarin Balogun before Monday's World Cup Round of 16 showdown in Seattle.

The Royal Belgian Football Association released a statement on the overturned suspension, saying they were "stunned by FIFA's decision to declare suspended American player Folarin Balogun eligible to play," arguing the ruling violates both the FIFA Disciplinary Code and World Cup regulations.

The federation concluded by saying it is "considering all possible options" to protect "the legitimate rights of all participating teams and preserve the fundamental principles of fair play."

FIFA MAKES FINAL RULING ON US SOCCER STAR FOLARIN BALOGUN'S CONTROVERSIAL RED CARD SUSPENSION

FIFA, however, wasn't persuaded.

"Pursuant to article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the application of the automatic suspension of American player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year," the FIFA Disciplinary Committee said in an official statement.

The ruling means Balogun, who was sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina, is eligible to face Belgium on Monday night.

USA WORLD CUP STAR CALLS LACK OF APPEAL PROCESS FOR TEAMMATE'S RED CARD 'BOGUS'

President Trump celebrated the ruling on Truth Social, thanking FIFA "for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump also praised Balogun's reinstatement and predicted a strong performance from the Americans against Belgium.

It's not hard to see why Belgium wanted Balogun sidelined. The American striker leads the United States with three goals this tournament.

Balogun scored against Bosnia and Herzegovina before being shown a red card in the 64th minute after a VAR review upgraded the challenge.

FORMER TEAM USA STAR WANTS TO SEE RED CARD RULE CHANGE AFTER FOLARIN BALOGUN CONTROVERSY

The dismissal immediately sparked debate among fans and pundits, many of whom believed the punishment was overly harsh.

The U.S. learned of FIFA's decision while arriving for Sunday morning training in the Seattle area.

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Belgium enters Monday's Round of 16 match ranked No. 9 in the FIFA World Rankings after handing the United States a 5-2 loss in a March friendly.

But World Cup knockout soccer is a different animal.

Come kickoff Monday night in Seattle, Balogun will be exactly where Belgium hoped he wouldn't be: on the field.

FULL STATEMENT

"The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) is stunned by FIFA's decision to declare suspended American player Folarin Balogun eligible to play in the United States-Belgium match scheduled for Monday, July 6 at 5 p.m. (Seattle time).

"FIFA bases its decision on article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. This provision states that the FIFA Disciplinary Committee may decide to suspend the application of a previously imposed disciplinary sanction.

"However, article 66.4 of the same FIFA Disciplinary Code clearly provides that a red card (sending-off) automatically results in a suspension for the team's next match, as has been the case for all red cards shown earlier during this FIFA World Cup.

"Moreover, and independently of the above, this decision directly contradicts the provisions of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Regulations, as set out in article 10.5:

"'If a player or team official is sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card (second caution), he will be automatically suspended for his team's next match. In addition, further sanctions may be imposed.'

"The automatic nature of such a suspension was also explicitly reaffirmed in FIFA World Cup 2026 circular no. 16, which was distributed to all participating member associations on May 12, 2026.

"This rule is reiterated at every FIFA World Cup 2026 match coordination meeting before each game and appears in all workshop presentations dedicated to the FIFA World Cup 2026.

"In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and preserve the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both during this FIFA World Cup and in future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is considering all possible options."

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

Trump called FIFA president to review Folarin Balogun's red card ahead of USA-Belgium match, source says

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:32:33 -0400

President Donald Trump intervened in Folarin Balogun’s red card controversy in the World Cup, calling FIFA president Gianni Infantino to ask for a review of the controversial decision in the Round of 32 win against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a source confirmed to Fox News.

It’s unknown what exactly Trump said to Infantino, who the 45th and 47th president has called a "great leader in sports" and a friend.

The USMNT striker, who has three goals in this World Cup including one prior to his red card in the Round of 32 match, has been cleared to play in a stunning twist of events.

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The Athletic, which first reported Balogun’s playing status on Sunday, noted that part of FIFA’s disciplinary code stated, "the judicial body may decide to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure."

FIFA MAKES FINAL RULING ON US SOCCER STAR FOLARIN BALOGUN'S CONTROVERSIAL RED CARD SUSPENSION

FIFA confirmed Balogun’s suspension was for a probationary period of one year.

"We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow," U.S. Soccer said. "Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans."

Meanwhile, Belgium, which narrowly escaped Senegal in the Round of 32, was "astonished" by FIFA’s decision to allow Balogun the right to play on Monday night. The Royal Belgian Football Association said it will be " investigating all potential options" to reverse this decision on Balogun.

Team USA manager Mauricio Pochettino and his staff were thinking about how to replace Balogun atop their formation, but now that has all changed, allowing them to run out their regular starting XI against a formidable Belgium squad.

While the USMNT will hope to beat Belgium, and other opponents moving forward, Trump and Infantino will be together at New York/New Jersey Stadium on July 19 for the World Cup Final. Just as they did last year at the FIFA Club World Cup Final, Trump will hand out the World Cup trophy to the winning team’s captain on the field, which Infantino said on " Fox & Friends."

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If the USMNT takes down Belgium on Monday night, they would just be the second team in the country’s history to reach the quarterfinals. They would also face the winner of Portugal and Spain if they can take care of Belgium first.

Fox News’ Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report.

Paige Spiranac insists 'great cans' aren't AI after Fourth of July post called into question

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:24:02 -0400

When the Fourth of July rolls around, you can count on Paige Spiranac to deliver. Whether it's showing hot dogs who's boss or slipping into patriotic swimwear of various styles, she's there.

This year she kept the tradition going and it shouldn’t surprise anyone. She's built an entire social media brand on her consistency, her authenticity, and her creativity.

Her "Happy 4th of July!" message arrived as expected Saturday afternoon. What wasn't expected is that the image's authenticity would be called into question.

NELLY KORDA ROCKS USA SOCCER JERSEY ON COURSE AT US WOMEN'S OPEN, DELIVERS PATRIOTIC MESSAGE

That transpired shortly after Paige posted it. Doubt crept into the mind of at least one person who called out the golf influencer for using AI.

The image included in the Fourth of July post features her wearing a patriotic bikini while standing in front of a background that isn't real.

"Paige you’re better than AI!," the person questioning the image wrote. "Still, great cans."

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

The image, according to Paige, isn’t the product of AI and those cans featured in the string bikini are all hers. What people are seeing is the magic of a calendar photo shoot and the work of a graphic designer.

"Not AI. This image was from my 2026 calendar," Paige responded. "We shot it in studio and then a graphic designer made the background."

The explanation was good enough to erase any doubt from the mind of the person who had made the AI claim. They replied, "Forgive me!! You look spectacular!!!!"

EPIC GOLF TRIP, GERMAN SOCCER FAN FREDDY STUNNED BY SMALL-TOWN OHIO IN CUP TRAVELS, SOFIA VERGARA STOPS & MEAT

Still there are those who aren't going to buy it. Paige isn’t worried about them. She addressed it and moved on.

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She has golf content to make and more important concerns to address than what people believe is AI and what they believe isn't. It's always something. Before AI, it was filters and Photoshop.

Some people choose to be miserable. For everyone else, happy Fourth of July from Paige Spiranac. Mark your calendars and we'll do it again next year.

Trump's bold prediction for historic UFC White House fight revealed in new Fox Nation documentary

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:23:42 -0400

The UFC Freedom 250 event made history as the first professional sporting event held on the White House lawn. Now for the first time, mixed martial arts fans can uncover how the Trump administration and event organizers helped put on the star-studded event.

"UFC Fight House: The Making of the Biggest Fight in History" is a two-part documentary now streaming on Fox Nation. The episodic event details the intense planning and logistics behind how the White House pulled off hosting the big fight, including the construction of 'the Claw,' which held seating for thousands of attendees.

New, exclusive commentary features UFC President and CEO Dana White and President Donald Trump, alongside many of his prominent allies. White compared the idea of the event to a Hollywood film, reflecting on the significance of what he and his team pulled off.

TRUMP SHOWS RENDERINGS FOR UFC WHITE HOUSE EVENT: 'GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH'

"You just couldn't write a better script than this," White said. "If you scripted this out like a movie, this is a documentary of what really happened. If this were a script of a movie, you'd call bullsh-- on a hundred things that happened; it's pretty amazing. You could never imagine that this would happen. You could never imagine that we would be asked to do an event at the White House."

"When President Trump tells you, 'Let's do something,' and you agree to it, now we have to deliver," he continued. "There isn't anything we can't do. You saw the idea of what we wanted to do. Now this is the reality."

Nine long months was what it took to host the premier sporting event of America's 250th anniversary. But Trump said in the documentary that the UFC Freedom 250's legacy could last much longer than just one of many Independence Days.

FEDERAL LAWSUIT SEEKS TO BLOCK UFC FREEDOM 250 FROM BEING HELD ON THE WHITE HOUSE SOUTH LAWN

"I think this is going to go down as one of the greatest sporting events and maybe one of the greatest events ever," he said.

The UFC Freedom 250's viewership numbers seemed to match the organizers' lofty ambitions. UFC announced its total global viewership for the event was an estimated 34 million people, making it one of the most-watched events in the sport's history. Paramount+ reported that 17 million viewers alone watched the event on their platform across the United States and Latin America, solidifying the event as a groundbreaking success.

White revealed his more personal reasons for holding the UFC event at the White House, citing the country's history of fighting dating all the way back to the Revolutionary War.

"Americans have been fighting since day one, since the birth of America," White said. "We fought to get independence and to build this country. It started with a fight. So to have a fight on the White House lawn on the 250th birthday of America, no other sport would make sense."

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

Fox Nation also takes viewers inside the mind of UFC executive producer Craig Borsari, the "architect" of the Freedom 250's production. Borsari in the documentary is seen at one point calmly sipping his morning coffee but clarified that outside those peaceful moments, preparing for the massive White House event was a constant rush of energy.

"When I'm enjoying my cup of coffee, the rest of my day is anything but that," he said. "When you plan for an event of this magnitude, you kind of get that adrenaline rush. You want the adrenaline; you want that nervous kind of tension a little bit because it keeps you sharp. It keeps the team seeking out all the opportunities to make this event an incredible one."

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Burgum clashes with CNN host, blasts media for questioning vandalism of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:00:49 -0400

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum clashed with CNN's Dana Bash on Sunday over damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., saying officials can prove vandals cut the newly installed liner after she questioned whether the Trump administration’s renovation work had failed ahead of the Fourth of July celebration.

Bash asked Burgum whether he was "100% sure" vandalism caused the damage and whether he could prove it.

"Absolutely you can," Burgum said. "And as we drain it, we’ve got all the photographs we can see."

FORMER US OLYMPIAN DAVID HEARN INDICTED IN ALLEGED REFLECTING POOL VANDALISM

Bash pressed Burgum on whether officials had photographs of "a person or people cutting a 300 or 350 ft gash" in the bottom of the pool.

"Dana, I’m not sure why you and others in the media think that you want to keep trying to question… this is an industrial liner," Burgum said.

Burgum said the material installed in the pool was not paint, comparing it to the sprayed-on liner used in pickup truck beds.

"Every farmer and rancher in America that’s had their pickup liner lined by this sprayed-on liner knows that you literally, literally, it would never just like peel off or fall off," Burgum said. "This is like a strong material, and it’s the size of eight football fields."

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

Burgum said the pattern of the damage showed it had been deliberately cut.

"The only way you can end up with actual slices in one spot and not the other is that someone physically cut it," Burgum said.

The secretary said the pool itself had been fixed after leaking tens of thousands of gallons of water per day.

"The pool itself, it’s not leaking," Burgum said. "It was leaking 45,000 gallons a day. It’s finally been fixed by President Trump and the American flag blue is working perfectly."

JULY 4 HEAT DELAYS AMERICA 250 CELEBRATION AS STATE FAIR GUESTS SHARE LOVE OF USA

Burgum said the broader issue was the condition of the nation’s capital before the renovation work.

"The real scandal is about the fact that the state of our capital was in such total disrepair," Burgum said. "No one was reporting about the pro-Hamas graffiti."

Bash noted that the Reflecting Pool was closed during the Fourth of July celebration.

"It was closed because it’s surrounded by fireworks," Burgum said. "It’s closed every year on the Fourth of July."

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Burgum said the fencing around the pool was tied to the fireworks display and would come down afterward.

"You can’t have people around fireworks when they’re being set up," Burgum said. "The fence was there because of the fireworks."

Bash also asked whether President Donald Trump’s motorcade could have damaged the coating when it crossed the pool in May.

"No," Burgum said. "He didn’t take the Beast. We were driving in a… Cadillac Escalade."

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Burgum said the administration would use the same company to repair the damage rather than seek new bids.

"We’ll use the same company because they did a fantastic job," Burgum said. "Thankfully, the vandalism was small. It was bad. I mean it could cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair."

The Associated Press reported Sunday that Burgum said the pool would have to be at least partially drained in the coming week and that repairs would not be opened to new contractors. The report claimed Green Water Solutions received a $1.7 million contract for a water-purification system, while Atlantic Industrial Coatings received a $14.7 million contract to repaint and waterproof the pool’s concrete floor.

Rob Reiner's final role draws fierce criticism 6 months after legendary director's tragic death

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 15:41:15 -0400

Rob Reiner's final on-screen appearance in Larry David's latest HBO comedy provoked online criticism.

A once vocal critic of the current administration, the late director's surprise cameo in "Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness: An Almost History of America," was considered Reiner's "last laugh" against President Donald Trump, director Jeff Schaffer told Variety.

"It’s coming out on Fourth of July weekend, and if it in any way spoils a sad octogenarian’s weekend, then oh well," Schaffer told the outlet.

Social media users quickly criticized the posthumous cameo and its political framing nearly six months after Rob and wife Michele Reiner were found dead inside their Brentwood home.

HOLLYWOOD CELEBRITIES CRASH AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY WITH A GRIM HOLIDAY WARNING ABOUT TRUMP

"Pretty sure Reiner would have preferred to be alive instead of getting the 'last laugh' here," one user wrote, while another quipped: "I'm going to go ahead and say that he definitively did not get the last laugh."

ROB REINER'S SON NICK FIGHTS FOR $1.5M TRUST FUND ACCESS TO BANKROLL HIGH-POWERED MURDER TRIAL DEFENSE

"Sorry but if your son stabs you and your wife to death there are no 'last laughs,'" another user wrote. "That’s basically as bad a thing as could possibly happen. I know we’re 11 years into this now and you haven’t figured it out yet but you really don’t need to do this stuff anymore."

Another X user noted, "The man and his wife were murdered by their son. He spent his last years on our planet obsessing over Trump and believing every media lie he was told. There isn’t a last laugh to be had. It was a tragic end."

While portraying George Washington in the historical comedy, Reiner declares he will not seek a third term in office and proposes Congress pursue a constitutional amendment prohibiting presidential power.

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

NICK REINER LOSING POWERHOUSE DEFENSE ATTORNEY MAY COME DOWN TO MONEY, EXPERTS SAY

Reiner stressed the importance of a peaceful transfer of power before David interjects, "He could use the presidency to enrich himself and his family. He could send troops into American cities to terrorize and even kill American citizens, all to distract from the fact that he’s friends with a pedophile!"

Fellow Trump antagonist Jimmy Kimmel made a surprise appearance and offered, "Are you suggesting that the president would taketh the time to challenge anyone who dare make fun of him? As if he were a big baby?"

As the colonists argue among themselves, Reiner notes, "We're f---ed" before an In Memoriam card honored the late "Princess Bride" director.

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The sketch was reportedly filmed on Nov. 13, nearly one month before Reiner's son, Nick Reiner, allegedly killed his parents.

Los Angeles Fire Department officials responded to a Brentwood-area home at around 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 14, where two bodies were discovered. Officials later confirmed the bodies to be of Rob and his wife, Michele.

Nick quickly became a person of interest and was taken into custody the night of Dec. 14. He was formally charged two days later with two counts of first-degree murder with a special circumstance of multiple murders.

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Nick pleaded not guilty during his Feb. 23 arraignment. A spokesperson for the Reiner family told Fox News Digital, "They have the utmost trust in the legal process and will not comment further on matters related to the legal proceedings."

Last month, Nick demanded access to his $1.5 million trust fund after he was allegedly blocked from a massive payout that would have funded his decision to hire top-notch celebrity attorney Alan Jackson.

According to court documents obtained by Fox News Digital, the trustees' alleged refusal to release money forced Nick into using a court-appointed public defender despite Jackson's firm already devoting substantial resources to his defense.

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Nick is facing a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty after being charged with two counts of first-degree murder.

White House representatives did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment about Reiner's cameo.

Fox News Digital's Lauryn Overhultz contributed to this report.