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Platner drops out of crucial Senate race after bombshell rape allegation torpedoes campaign

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 20:17:21 -0400

Graham Platner, the embattled Democratic Senate nominee in Maine, suspended his campaign on Wednesday amid mounting controversies and growing calls from top Democrats in his home state, in the nation's capital, and across the country for him to immediately quit the race.

Platner, a populist Democrat backed last September by progressive champion Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., was challenging longtime Republican Sen. Susan Collins in a high-profile, combustible and expensive race in Maine, which is one of a handful that will determine if the GOP holds onto its slim Senate majority in November's midterm elections.

"For the movement to continue, it can’t be me. For that reason, we are suspending campaign operations," Platner said in a video posted to social media.

Platner's exit from the race comes five days before a crucial deadline, which, if he had missed, would have prevented Maine Democrats from replacing him with a new nominee on the general election ballot.

The suspension of his campaign took place one month after Platner won a landslide victory in Maine's June 9 Democratic Senate primary, but just two days after an explosive report on Monday afternoon contained an allegation of rape from a woman he previously dated.

SCANDAL-PLAGUED PLATNER CAPTURES DEMOCRATIC SENATE NOMINATION DESPITE MOUNTING CONTROVERSIES

Addressing those allegations, Platner said, "This is all false. The things that have been claimed did not happen. It is not real."

And Platner, who has run an outsider, anti-establishment campaign for nearly a year, pointed to the political class and argued, "the brutal political reality is they are going to take everything away from us."

"Those in power who have the ability to do so are using these allegations as an excuse to take away all the things that we need to run a campaign," he charged.

The allegation that triggered Platner's exit from the race came from Maine resident Jenny Racicot, 41, who told CNN's Jack Tapper that "by dictionary definition" Platner "raped" her.

"I thought, here's a man who was drunk and who, by dictionary definition, raped me. And he's blaming drunk women," Racicot said. "So I just felt like that was a very odd take to have on that. And I also feel like with all of the comments that he made about women, sexual assault, rape, even, um, you know, the comments that he had made that was in The New York Times article about, you know, threatening people with rape, like, why does this person have this issue, like scattered throughout their life, throughout their commentary, like it‘s on their mind?"

Racicot also said over the course of three interviews with Politico that Platner forced her to have sex five years ago against her will, a claim that Platner denied in the Politico story. Additionally, the report says that a man Raciot dated afterward confirmed she had told him about the incident, which was also corroborated by emails between Racicot and her therapist.

"I remember him grabbing my pelvis and being really forceful of me," Racicot told the outlet about the incident, which allegedly took place while Platner was "almost blackout drunk." "I remember the specific moment where I thought to myself, like, ‘This is no longer my choice.’"

Racicot alleged that Platner entered her home uninvited and forced her to have unprotected sex despite her telling him to stop multiple times.

Racicot said in the report that "one of the reasons" she didn't come forward until now was the "huge moral conflict" she had between her support of Platner's politics and not supporting him "as a person."

"I just want the truth out there," Racicot said. "I just want people to have a whole scope of who he is as a person."

In a statement to Politico, Platner said, "These allegations are troubling, serious, and false. Any accusation of non-consensual behavior is categorically untrue."

The Platner campaign also posted a video on X shortly after the Politico story published where Platner again called the allegations "false" and that he was going to "reflect" on the best path forward.

"So, regardless of the inaccuracy of the reporting, but mindful 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," Platner says in the video. "Those were the goals when we launched this campaign, and they remain my goals today."

Platner was hit with a second explosive allegation of sexual impropriety on Tuesday. In a report published by The Washington Post, Platner was accused of removing condoms during sex with his ex-girlfriend Lyndsey Fifield after she explicitly directed him to wear them.

Fifield, 41, previously accused Platner of physical misconduct during their relationship, saying that he sometimes grabbed her hard enough to leave marks on her body and that one time he twisted her arm around her back, pushed her into a bedroom and held the door shut until she "calmed down."

In a statement to The Washington Post, the Platner campaign said that Fifield's latest allegations were "categorically false and politically motivated," as they pointed to her previous work for the conservative Heritage Foundation.

The Marine Corps combat veteran and oyster farmer became the all-but-certain nominee in the spring, after two-term Gov. Janet Mills, who had been backed by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and the Democrat establishment, suspended her bid after significantly trailing Platner in fundraising and polling.

But Platner was forced onto defense the past couple of months amid multiple controversies that muddied the final days of his primary campaign and overshadowed his victory.

Past inflammatory online comments made on a now-deleted Reddit account came back to haunt him at the same time he was reeling from revelations of a now covered-up tattoo on his chest that resembled a Nazi symbol. Then reports that Platner exchanged sexually explicit messages with several women while married came right before allegations from ex-girlfriends of a history of rape fantasies, heavy drinking and violent episodes.

Platner repeatedly called the allegations of violence untrue.

A day before the primary last month, a former high-level staffer from the Platner campaign wrote in a Washington Post op/ed that Platner "is not someone who would be good for Maine or for the country."

The mounting controversies grabbed plenty of attention, gave Republicans more ammunition to use against him and triggered some Democrats in the nation's capital to question whether Platner was damaged goods.

But the allegations didn't stop him from riding a populist wave to capture the nomination.

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Platner, who had acknowledged his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from his three tours of duty in the war in Iraq with the Marines and one tour with the Army National Guard in Afghanistan, apologized for his controversial Reddit posts after some of them made headlines last fall soon after he launched his Senate campaign.

And Platner said he got the skull and crossbones tattoo in 2007, while drinking with fellow Marines stationed in Croatia. He said that he covered up the tattoo with a new design after learning last year that it resembled a Nazi symbol.

But allegations from an ex-girlfriend raised questions about Platner's timeline regarding knowledge of the tattoo.

In his primary night victory speech, Platner emphasized that he was a changed man.

"If you believe, as I do, that we can change our politics and change our country, then you must also believe that people can change," Platner told the crowd. "And the reason I believe that is because I have lived it. And the reason that I have lived it is because of my wife."

Platner's suspension of his campaign comes just before a 5 p.m. deadline on Monday, July 13, set by state law, for candidates to withdraw from the race.

Since Platner dropped out ahead of the deadline, the Maine Democratic Party will be able to replace him on the general election ballot. The party needs to select a new nominee by July 27.

If Platner had exited the race after the deadline, his name could be stricken from the ballot, but Maine Democrats would not be able to replace him with another candidate.

The Maine Democratic Party on Tuesday night, in a stunning announcement, said that party officials were working "around the clock" to determine a replacement process, but claimed that Platner and his team were trying "to put their thumb on the scale of what this process looks like."

Platner's team, responding, said they had reached out to the party but denied they were trying to put any "finger on the scale."

THE TEN RACES THAT WILL DETERMINE THE SENATE'S MAJORITY

Rumors about Platner potentially dropping out started swirling this past weekend, as multiple events by the candidate were canceled without an official explanation. The Bangor Daily News reported on Monday that one organizer said an event was canceled due to Platner "not feeling well."

The news of the canceled events led conservative outlets and pundits to speculate whether there was an underlying reason for the cancelations or an impending end to his campaign.

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

As Monday afternoon turned into Monday evening, a growing chorus of leading Democrats called on Platner to quit the race.

Schumer called the allegations in the Politico report "incredibly disturbing – violence, abuse and sexual assault are absolutely unacceptable."

In a statement with Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) Chair Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Schumer emphasized, "Graham Platner needs to immediately withdraw as the Democratic nominee for Senate and allow Maine Democrats the opportunity to choose a new candidate who can defeat Susan Collins. The DSCC will not invest in the Maine Senate race if Platner remains on the ballot."

Senate Majority PAC, the Schumer-aligned top super PAC backing Senate Democratic incumbents and candidates, said it was "redirecting resources away from the Maine Senate race in light of the latest allegations against Graham Platner."

The leadership of the Maine Democratic Party, in a statement, said it "is calling Graham Platner to withdraw as the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate."

One of Platner's top supporters in Congress, Rep. Ro Khanna of California, rescinded his endorsement.

"I’ve been very clear that sexual assault or violence against women is a red line. These allegations are very serious and credible. Graham Platner should drop out from the race. I am withdrawing my endorsement," Khanna wrote in a social media post.

Khanna, a top progressive leader in the House, told Fox News Digital as he campaigned with Platner in Maine days ahead of the primary that he was "concerned about making it clear that we’re opposed to misogyny, those relationships were toxic and volatile, there’s no excuse for that."

"I talked to Graham, and he says he was at a very dark period. He had come back from two tours of duty in Iraq as an infantryman seeing violence and death. That doesn’t excuse it," Khanna said last month.

Also dropping their endorsement on Monday was Democratic Sen. Ruben Gallego of Arizona, who along with Khanna is considered a potential 2028 White House hopeful.

"The allegations against Graham Platner are troubling and deeply serious," Gallego wrote on X. "I am rescinding my endorsement."

So did progressive champion Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, who had endorsed and appeared with Platner.

Our Revolution, a progressive political action organization founded by Sanders, announced it was withdrawing its endorsement of Platner.

On Tuesday, Sanders finally put out a statement.

"I have spoken with Graham Platner about the best path forward for Maine. In light of these very serious allegations, I have recommended that he step aside," the senator wrote.

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Platner, who launched his bid for U.S. Senate last summer, quickly started drawing large crowds and built a healthy fundraising war chest earlier this year, thanks, in part, to Sanders' early support and the candidate's tireless efforts on the trail.

Two polls conducted late last month indicated a close general election contest. A Fox News poll gave Collins a three-point edge, while a New York Times/Siena survey indicated Planter holding a two-point margin.

But beating Collins hasn't been easy. Six years ago, public opinion polls indicated the senator was headed to defeat, but Collins defied expectations and won re-election by defeating then-Democratic state House Speaker Sara Gideon by nine points.

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Collins, a moderate Republican who at times votes against President Donald Trump's agenda, is running for a sixth six-year term in the Senate.

Republicans currently control the chamber 53-47 and flipping the Senate seat in left-leaning Maine is a key part of the Democrats' path to retake the majority.

Fox News' Olivia Palombo and Matthew Donnell contributed to this report

Saints' Cam Jordan eyes Super Bowl glory in what he expects to be final NFL season

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 20:08:30 -0400

New Orleans Saints legend Cam Jordan hopes the door to his career isn’t cracked an inch.

And he plans to slam it shut after year 16 in the NFL this upcoming season.

Jordan, coming off a 10½-sack 2025 campaign, re-signed with the Saints for one more year. And though the word "retirement" has not yet been uttered, Jordan has made it known he is going into this season expecting it to be his last in the league.

"I’ve been doing this since year 10," Jordan told Fox News Digital over the phone, while also discussing his excitement to work alongside fellow pass rushers at the annual Sack Summit in Las Vegas this week alongside third-year official sponsor Raising Cane’s.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"Do I feel good? Absolutely. Do I feel better not being part of OTAs? Physically, yes," Jordan said.

One of Jordan’s superpowers, other than getting after the quarterback, setting the edge and doing what a future Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive end can do, is being candid no matter the situation.

After seeing what first-year head coach Kellen Moore and defensive coordinator Brandon Staley had in place for him last year, Jordan knows his role on the Saints defense, saying he "can do whatever needs to be done" for his team. People questioned him playing a two-point stance (an upright position with no hands on the ground at the line of scrimmage), but it clearly worked out when you view his numbers.

AARON RODGERS CONFIRMS HE'S RETIRING AFTER UPCOMING SEASON WITH THE PITTSBURGH STEELERS

Jordan knows he can help this Saints team that’s filled with potential, and that fire in his gut still burns to make a difference in the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. There’s also one last run in him to achieve his dream.

"The ultimate dream is to win a Super Bowl," Jordan said. "You go into childhood, coming out of childhood, like, ‘Man, I want to be just like the greats.’ For some reason, we accumulate the idea of success in football to winning a Super Bowl because it’s the ultimate team sport. That’s the ultimate team dream."

The personal accolades have been abundant for Jordan since he came out of the Cal Bears' system as the 24th overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft. The Saints took him, and he hasn’t left Louisiana, showcasing loyalty on and off the field while racking up 132 sacks, the 17th most all time.

Jordan's goal during his final season in the black and gold will be to accumulate enough sacks to make it eight seasons in double digits. If he does so, he’ll be top 10 all-time in sacks.

"You look at year 16 — this is who I am. This is my body of work. It has never changed," Jordan added.

But, again, Jordan believes his Hall of Fame worthiness is etched in stone already. He could write his speech for Canton, Ohio, now before playing his final season.

Will that speech include the words "Super Bowl champion?"

Jordan certainly hopes so because what else is there to chase when you believe you've already done enough to earn a bust in the Pro Football Hall of Fame?

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"I was sitting there this offseason, and I was like, ‘Man, what is it I want to accomplish?’ A Super Bowl. Personally speaking, I’ve done it all. All-Pro, Pro Bowls. Hell, I put together a Pro Bowl-esque season last year."

Jordan, who turns 37 Friday, is ready to give his all one last time before that door closes.

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Left-wing host presses El-Sayed over 'physician' claim, questions honesty of Michigan Dem Senate hopeful

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 20:07:42 -0400

Left-wing host Mehdi Hasan pressed Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed on Wednesday over why he called himself a "physician" despite not having a valid state medical license, as the Democrat competes in a closely watched primary.

"You got attacked by your rivals for calling yourself a physician, not just a doctor, even though you don’t have a valid state medical license in New York or Michigan, which apparently is what you need legally to call yourself a physician," Hasan said during a Zeteo interview. "Do you wish you’d just stuck to calling yourself a doctor, which you are, to avoid all of this controversy and attacks on your physician status?"

"You know, at the end of the day, it’s not about whether or not I’m a physician or a doctor," El-Sayed said. "It’s not about my education. It’s about whether or not your kid gets a good education."

"That’s a good line, but people would say it’s also about did you tell the truth?" Hasan said.

DEMOCRATS' CIVIL WAR HEADS TO MICHIGAN WHERE PROGRESSIVES FACE BIGGEST TEST YET IN HIGH-STAKES SENATE SHOWDOWN

Hasan raised the question after noting that El-Sayed’s rivals had attacked him for calling himself a "physician" rather than a doctor.

After El-Sayed initially tried to steer the exchange toward healthcare access and education, he defended his public health record, saying he had helped more people through government service than many doctors do in clinical practice.

"Well, I would say that I was the health director for the city of Detroit, and I’ve done more to provide more people healthcare or eliminate their medical debt than most doctors have done in their practice career," El-Sayed said. "So, I’m proud of the work that I did."

DEM CIVIL WAR HITS PRIMARY DEBATE STAGE IN FIERY BATTLEGROUND SHOWDOWN: 'WHAT ARE YOU HIDING?'

El-Sayed said he changed course with his medical training after graduating from Columbia University.

"I took my medical education in a different direction," El-Sayed said. "And I did graduate from a school that’s literally called Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons. So, you know, you can go have that argument with Columbia University if you’d like."

El-Sayed has repeatedly described himself as a "physician" on the campaign trail and in public biographies, despite records showing he never held a medical license in Michigan or New York.

El-Sayed's campaign did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital for comment.

WATCH: SURFACED VIDEOS OF DEM SENATE CANDIDATE BACKING 'DEFUND THE POLICE' CONTRADICT RECENT DENIALS

Hasan also pressed El-Sayed on his personal finance disclosure, noting that Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Mich., had attacked him and Republican Mike Rogers over their finances.

"You sought an extension through August 13, I believe, which is after the primary," Hasan said. "Was this to avoid transparency with your voters? Why not release them before the election?"

El-Sayed said the delay was related to family finances and overseas property.

"No, just taxes get complicated," El-Sayed said. "My wife and her family own property abroad and so getting all those tax forms is a thing."

Bridge Michigan reported that El-Sayed filed an extension to delay his 2026 personal financial disclosure until after the Aug. 4 primary and that the report is now due Aug. 13. Bridge also reported that Stevens had requested 90-day extensions for her personal financial disclosures each year from 2019 to 2025, though she did not seek one this year.

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Stevens’ campaign told Fox News Digital El-Sayed pledged on camera after a WOOD-TV debate to release his personal financial disclosures before the Aug. 4 primary after Haley Stevens pressed him over his decision to file an extension.

"Now, the clock is ticking. Abdul needs to make good on his promise to Michiganders and release his PFD immediately. What is he hiding?" said Haley Stevens for Senate communications director Arik Wolk.

Chicago Blackhawks dealt devastating blow with Connor Bedard expected to miss start of season

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:42:39 -0400

It's the middle of the summer, which means there isn't a ton of NHL news to sift through, but there is some, and, in the case of the Chicago Blackhawks, it's very bad.

That's because the team just learned their franchise centerpiece, Connor Bedard, will be out of action four months after getting injured while training.

That means he won't be back in the team's lineup until November.

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Bedard was training in Vancouver last week when video started making the rounds showing him falling during a drill and leaving the ice in clear discomfort.

Well, that discomfort was real, and, on Wednesday the Blackhawks announced the 2023 first overall pick had undergone surgery on his left shoulder and is expected to make a full recovery.

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He will miss some action early in the upcoming season.

The Blackhawks will be happy to have him back a month or so into the season as opposed to having him miss four months of the regular season, but that is going to make Chicago's start to the season critical.

The Blackhawks play in a tough Central Division, and they have to keep pace with the likely playoff teams in it — squads like the Avalanche, Stars, Wild, Mammoth and maybe Jets — so that they don't have to dig out of a hole when Bedard returns to action.

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Bedard is no stranger to injuries. He battled an injury to his right shoulder last season, and in his rookie campaign in 2024-25, he broke his jaw.

When he's healthy, he has averaged a little under a point per game, something the Blackhawks will need as they continue to work their way back to being perennial playoff contenders.

Who is Valli Geiger? Meet the Maine Dem that Platner is urging to run for Senate

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:40:16 -0400

Maine state Rep. Valli Geiger, a Rockland Democrat, former nurse and former mayor, is drawing sudden national attention after saying embattled Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner encouraged her to consider taking his place on the ballot in the Maine Senate race if he withdraws.

Geiger has not been named the replacement nominee, and Platner has not formally dropped out. However, her name entered the Maine Senate scramble after she told local outlet WMTW that Platner called her Monday night, praised her as a "fighter" and asked whether he could put her name forward. Platner’s campaign told the outlet he had not made an endorsement decision but confirmed he encouraged Geiger to consider running if he stepped aside.

After Geiger said Platner called her about potentially putting her name forward, Geiger posted Tuesday she would not "throw Graham under the bus," while also saying she would not "slander or accuse" Jenny Racicot, the woman who accused Platner of rape, "of anything more than telling the truth as she experienced it."

By Wednesday, local outlets were reporting that Geiger said Platner had encouraged her to consider running if he withdrew. Platner has denied the claim.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT IF PLATNER DROPS OUT? HERE'S WHO COULD REPLACE HIM ON THE BALLOT AND HOW IT COULD WORK

Geiger is a third-term Democratic state representative from Rockland, according to her legislative biography, representing a coastal House district in Maine that includes Rockland, Criehaven Township, Matinicus Isle Plantation, the Muscle Ridge Islands, North Haven and part of Owls Head. Her biography says she serves on the Labor Committee and the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee.

Before entering the state legislature, Geiger served six years on the Rockland City Council, including one year as mayor and four years on the Rockland Comprehensive Planning Commission, three of them as chair.

Her biography says she holds a master’s degree in sustainable design and built her own passive-solar, net-zero-energy house. It also describes her as a former nurse at Pen Bay Medical Center who later worked as a health policy analyst and health administrator, including as director of the Healthreach Hospice program and clinical director for Federally Qualified Health Centers around Maine.

PLATNER CAMPAIGN PUTTING ‘THUMB ON SCALE’ TO INFLUENCE POSSIBLE REPLACEMENT, MAINE DEM ALLEGES

Geiger’s connection to Platner predates the latest replacement speculation. Local reporting has described her as a close Platner supporter, and WMTW reported she previously stood with him and credited him with helping secure funding for rape kit tracking in Maine.

In her Facebook post responding to Racicot’s allegation, Geiger wrote that Racicot’s story "seems credible" but added that "none of us knows the truth nor will we ever." She also described Platner as "a man becoming a better man" and said she had hoped he would lead the political movement his campaign had built and will not "throw Graham under the bus."

In the post, Geiger also praised Platner’s "passion for economic populism" and said she had granted him "an enormous amount of grace" for his behavior during what she described as his "dark years" after multiple deployments.

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The Maine state representative is not the only Democrat whose name has surfaced as Maine Democrats prepare for the possibility that Platner exits the race against Republican Sen. Susan Collins.

Several Democrats have expressed interest or are considering bids, including former gubernatorial candidate Troy Jackson, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows and former Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah.

Under Maine law, if Platner formally withdraws as the Democratic nominee by 5 p.m. on July 13, the Maine Democratic Party can replace him on the general election ballot by selecting a new nominee through its party process, with the replacement required to be chosen by July 27.

NHL star says signing Leo Carlsson at record $18 million a year could end up being a steal

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:21:37 -0400

The talk of the NHL has been all about the Philadelphia Flyers swooping in and offering Anaheim Ducks RFA Leo Carlsson a behemoth, five-year deal with an $18 million AAV.

That's a hefty price to pay, and it will make Carlsson the highest-paid player in the league whether he heads to Philly or the Ducks match.

However, Florida Panthers star Brady Tkachuk thinks that whoever takes on the 21-year-old center's $18 million cap hit could be getting a deal.

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Brady and his brother, Matthew, talked about the offer sheet on their "Wingmen" podcast as the Ducks' window to match the offer sheet continues to close.

"Eighteen million is not an overpay whatsoever," Brady said, to which his brother and teammate, Matthew Tkachuk, agreed. "Unbelievable; he comes as advertised. Eighteen million is probably going to be underpaid. That's how good this player is."

THE TALLEST PLAYER EVER SELECTED IN THE NHL BLEW MINDS IN HIS DEBUT WITH THE SAN JOSE SHARKS

Tkachuk is probably right, especially as the cap continues to go up. When stars like San Jose's Macklin Celebrini and Chicago's Connor Bedard become eligible for new contracts, they could easily surpass Carlsson's deal.

Of course, the Ducks' problem isn't whether Carlsson is worth $18 million a year — if GM Pat Verbeek thought he wasn't, this offer sheet never would've materialized. The real issue is whether Anaheim has the cap space to match it.

The bind Flyers GM Danny Briere created is that the Ducks had just under $18 million in projected cap space when the offer sheet arrived. They then re-signed defenseman Pavel Mintyukov, leaving them with roughly $9 million.

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But they also have to consider extensions for future RFAs Cutter Gauthier and Beckett Sennecke, which makes matching Carlsson not only harder, but riskier.

The Ducks have until Friday to make a decision, and if they don't match it, they will receive a boatload of first-round picks from the Flyers as compensation.

Stephen Colbert rakes record number of Emmy nominations after 'Late Show' series cancellation

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:00:25 -0400

The final season of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" earned nine Emmy nominations on Wednesday, the largest haul for the series since Colbert took over the show.

In addition to Outstanding Variety Series, the late-night talk show is nominated for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series, Outstanding Directing For A Variety Series, Outstanding Production Design For A Variety Or Reality Series, Outstanding Technical Direction and Camerawork For A Series, Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction For A Series, Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Variety Series Or Special, Outstanding Picture Editing For Variety Programming and Outstanding Music Direction.

The show's previous record was five nominations in 2024, when it was nominated for production design, directing, lighting, talk series and technical direction. Colbert's show also received five nominations in 2021 and 2022.

STEPHEN COLBERT'S 'LATE SHOW' WRITERS LAUNCH 'FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION' CAMPAIGN FOR EMMYS AFTER CANCELLATION

In Colbert's 11-year tenure at "The Late Show," the program received over 40 nominations but only two wins for Outstanding Talk Series and Outstanding Directing for a Variety Series. Both wins were from 2025, months after CBS announced the show's cancellation last year.

"Sometimes, you only know how much you love something when you get a sense you might be losing it," Colbert said during his acceptance speech. "I have never loved my country more desperately. God bless America."

In a comment to Fox News Digital, CBS referred to an Instagram post congratulating the series for its nominations.

COLBERT LASHES OUT AT CBS, SAYS CANCELLATION ‘REINFORCED A NARRATIVE’ OF ‘KNEE BENDING’ TO TRUMP

The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards will air Sept. 14.

CBS canceled "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" last year for what it described as financial reasons with reports claiming the series was losing the network $40 million per year.

However, several liberal commentators, along with Colbert himself, have accused the network of canceling the show to appease President Donald Trump ahead of a massive merger requiring FCC approval. Colbert spent several episodes in his final season and in the public eye attacking the network and its parent company, Paramount, for the decision.

TRUMP MAY HAVE 'JUST HANDED AN EMMY' TO STEPHEN COLBERT, INDUSTRY REPORTER SAYS

"This is not the 1950s," Colbert said at the Writers Guild Awards in March. "This is not the Red Scare. And, as far as I can tell, no one in late night is fomenting a revolution. As we know, the revolution will not be televised. It was going to be televised, but then Paramount bought it."

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"The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" aired its final episode on May 21. The finale helped earn the show five out of the nine nominations.

England soccer players bomb off diving board like a teammate wasn't just injured in a freak accident

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 18:53:15 -0400

England is gearing up for a massive World Cup quarterfinal match against Norway. Of course, they're going to be preparing for the match, but they also took some time out to chill and have some fun.

This included a team diving competition that the squad posted on social media.

A daring choice considering you just lost a guy to injury after he tried to hop an advertising board during the post-match celebration.

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

I don't mean to be Captain Safety First over here, but bombing off diving boards ahead of a World Cup quarterfinal is wild.

Can you imagine the (*Desi Arnaz voice*) 'splainin' they would have to do if someone got injured during that? You think it's bad to lose a guy to a freak advertising board-related incident — how about losing one because he slipped on takeoff trying to lay down the best can opener of the afternoon?

Also, we've got to address fullback Djed Spence wearing socks in the pool.

That's a wild choice. First of all, I'm not sure anything makes me as angry as having wet socks. It will wreck my day, and doing it on purpose is unfathomable.

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Happened to me the other night. I'm still mad about it.

Maybe the thought was that it would give him more traction on the diving board, but that can't possibly be right. If it did, wouldn't every Olympic diver be wearing a pair of Hanes crews?

There has been a rash of strange athlete pool behavior. About two months ago, Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon was seen cruising around the hotel pool with flippers and goggles.

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I mean, at least he's not going to get hurt doing that, but man, I wouldn't want it getting out that I'm a goggles-in-the-hotel-pool guy (which I'm not, for the record).

But, hey, maybe this airborne bonding sesh is just what England needs to win a tough match against Erling Haaland and Norway.

If you're looking for a Big 12 winner not named Texas Tech or BYU, consider the Houston Cougars

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 18:30:07 -0400

With Big 12 Media Days wrapping up on Wednesday afternoon, there is no doubt who the heavy favorites of the conference are.

Most media members are in agreement that this year's version of the Big 12 appears to be a two horse race, or rather, a Red Raider and Cougar race.

That's right, the two darlings of the conference in 2026 are none other than Texas Tech and BYU.

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The Red Raiders had their fair share of controversy throughout the offseason thanks to the Brendan Sorsby gambling saga, but they still have far and away the most talented roster in the Big 12 and will be expected to take the title by brute force.

Joining them in the favorites circle is BYU, a team that was a stone's throw away from the College Football Playoff and played for the Big 12 title last year, ultimately falling to the aforementioned Red Raiders of Texas Tech.

Some of you might not be too keen on picking heavy favorites to win a conference, so what if I told you there was another team a little further down the list that might have a chance to unseat the incumbent champs?

I am speaking of none other than the Houston Cougars, a program on the rise that might be flying criminally under the radar in 2026.

The Cougs are entering year three of the Willie Fritz era, and that's usually when many coaches reach their stride (Fritz included).

Fritz is coming off of a ten-win season in 2025 and had the Cougars ranked in the final AP Poll for the first time since the end of the 2021 season.

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Houston also has both of its coordinators returning in 2026, including young and up-and-coming defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong, who had the unit rolling last season and finished with a defense ranked in the top-50 in scoring (22.9 ppg) and top-40 in average yards per rush allowed (3.7 ypa).

The schedule is manageable, even by Big 12 standards, as the Cougars avoid playing BYU, Arizona, and Arizona State this coming season, and have a very forgiving back stretch.

Most importantly, Houston gets Texas Tech in September to open conference play, meaning there's a chance they could catch the Red Raiders early before their team gels or they have a chance to figure out their quarterback situation.

If the Cougars can spring the upset, they would be in the driver's seat for the rest of the season in conference play.

Speaking of gelling, Houston ranks second in the Big 12 in returning production, and rank top-ten in the country in returning offensive production, so this should be a well-oiled machine from the jump.

While Houston’s transfer portal returns on the whole aren’t anything to write home about, I loved the pick up of running back Makhi Hughes from Oregon.

He didn’t yield a ton of production last season, but his 2024 season at Tulane was incredibly impressive, putting up over 1,400 yards on the ground and finding the end zone a total of 17 times.

Overcoming the conference's Goliath in Lubbock won't be easy, but I really like the makeup of this team.

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The returning coordinators, veteran leadership, and forgiving schedule could be the perfect storm needed to send Houston to the big dance in December.

Buy stock in the Cougars now, because the price will only go up from here.

Florida TV boss rips 'cringeworthy' posts as anchor's bikini-clad social media posts spark buzz

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 18:00:18 -0400

A Miami news station director admonished staff in a memo to stop posting "foolish nonsense" to their social media accounts, which came back to light as an anchor’s bikini-clad posts sparked discussion of whether they violated the policy.

WPLG Vice President of News Bill Pohovey blasted his staff in an internal memo over influencer-like content that distracted from their journalistic mission, according to a report by FTVLive.

"I have emailed about this numerous times in the past, but we seem to be going in the wrong direction again," Pohovey reportedly wrote.

The memo was released as a series of Instagram posts were made by WPLG anchor and reporter Jenise Fernandez to her verified personal account, in which she shared images of her recent trip to Fiji to her approximately 28,000 followers, the outlet reported. However, the memo was sent weeks ago, before the new pictures.

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The images appeared to show Fernandez wearing a fire-red bikini while climbing aboard a resort boat, with the caption, "Now I know what it feels like to be on @cloud9_fiji."

According to Fernandez’s station biography, she has worked at the station since 2014 and was once crowned Miss Miami. She also previously placed fourth runner-up at the Miss Florida Pageant.

Another set of photos reportedly showed Fernandez wearing the same bikini as she leaned up against a floating bar at the resort — with an additional post showing her raising a shot glass to toast with two companions.

While some reports indicated the memo penned by Pohovey was circulated after the posts were made to Fernandez’s account, Pohovey disputed that in a statement to the New York Post.

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Pohovey told the outlet the memo "was not a response to one individual post [but rather] just a reminder of long-standing guidelines."

In a follow-up statement, Pohovey added, "This had nothing to do with a current employee. As I said, the memo was sent out many months ago and is not new."

He also told the New York Post that the photos didn't violate his directive.

"The memo didn’t tell employees they couldn’t post vacation photos or other daily life activities on their personal social pages," he said in an email to the Post. "We do live in Florida and people wear bikinis on the beach. These photos were tasteful and completely fine."

The memo reportedly railed against current employees of the station, reminding them that their public persona should not detract from their roles as local journalists.

"Too many of our social media accounts are being used for foolish nonsense," Pohovey wrote, according to FTVLive.

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"We don’t want dance videos with our staff. We don’t want fashion shows, outfits of the day, or other silly content that detracts from you as journalists," he added.

Pohovey also reportedly told staff that they are not permitted to film social media content within the newsroom — a practice that has become commonplace in news outlets throughout the country.

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"We should never produce such content, and we should absolutely NEVER create such content inside the station, in our newsroom or studios, using our news set as the background," Pohovey wrote.

The vice president reportedly said that staff members should consider applying the same rules to their personal social media accounts, while adding that, "Some of what I see is cringeworthy."

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"People are losing trust in the news, and the nickname ‘fake news’ is beginning to stick. We’re seen as not serious and this unprofessional behavior only adds fuel to that fire," he later added. "The likes and follows are not worth eroding your credibility and the credibility of this news organization."

Fox News Digital reached out to Fernandez and Pohovey for comment.

US Soccer issues statement on Mauricio Pochettino's future with Team USA after World Cup

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 18:00:07 -0400

When Mauricio Pochettino was hired as the head coach of the US Men's National Team just under two years ago, it was widely viewed as a coup for US Soccer.

Pochettino brought an outside perspective, a stark departure from Gregg Berhalter, whose experience as a manager was mostly in MLS. He'd coached players at the highest level of European competition, with stints at Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League, Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1, and Chelsea, back in the EPL.

His tenure got off to a bit of a rocky start, then in the largest tournament prior to the World Cup, his USMNT lost 2-1 in the Gold Cup Final to Mexico. Albeit with some controversial refereeing decisions going Mexico's way.

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But as with most national team managers, Pochettino was always going to be judged based on the USMNT's performance in the 2026 World Cup. And there it's, well, a bit of a mixed bag. The first match against Paraguay in Los Angeles was jaw-dropping. A dominant 4-1 victory, playing a brand of aggressive, attacking soccer with composure, coordination, and outstanding movement that had virtually never been seen before from a US team.

They handled Australia 2-0, before dropping a meaningless game against Turkey with the backups replacing most starters. Advancing out of the group stage was one thing, but winning it in dominant fashion was another. Still, the knockout stage has been yet another hurdle for the USMNT to overcome, and in perhaps the most encouraging sign yet, they did so easily.

Yes, Bosnia and Herzegovina was outmatched on talent, but the resilience the team displayed after star Florian Balogun was sent off with a controversial red card was impressive. As was the top level free kick goal from Malik Tillman. That win set up arguably the biggest opportunity for a USMNT team in decades: beat Belgium in a home World Cup to advance to the quarterfinals.

We all know how that turned out. A devastating 4-1 loss, where the USMNT somehow reverted back to the form most long-time fans are familiar with. Poor coordination, atrocious back line play, too many lost balls from the team's best players, and unforgivable, inexcusable mistakes.

So how do you judge Pochettino's performance? Well, that's exactly what US Soccer has to do. And they issued a statement after their World Cup exit seemingly implying that they want him back and the decision lies with him.

"We had positive conversations with Mauricio before the World Cup about the future," the statement says. "We agreed we would continue those conversations following a chance to rest and reflect post World Cup. We have a great deal of respect and gratitude for Mauricio, his staff and everyone part of the program. We have shared excitement about our potential and also shared clarity about the amount of work at all levels still required to achieve our ambition."

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Pochettino himself said he intends to take some time to think about his future and what the federation wants.

"In the next few weeks, we can start to talk if the federation wants to talk," he said after the match. "Right now it’s about resting a little bit, to think, to have conversations with the federation to see what the decision is. I’m so happy. We’ve built a very good relationship. Now is not a moment to talk about [my future]."

He'll certainly have options, whether that's back in the Premier League, or in Italy, or elsewhere. But retaining Pochettino should be a top priority for US Soccer.

His adjustments at halftime brought the USMNT right back into the match, and it doesn't fall to him that 38-year-old Tim Ream was the best available center back. Or that the starting goalkeeper quite literally kicked the ground when attempting to clear the ball, leading directly to a Belgium goal. While there's justifiable frustration over going out in the Round of 16 yet again, it's clear that the US player pool is the best it's ever been. And getting better.

There are many structural issues to address with how soccer is coached and administered at the youth level, which fall more on US Soccer than the USMNT head coach. But as far as team selection, development, and tactics, there aren't many coaching options available that would be a better choice for the US. Outside of extremely unlikely swings at someone like Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti, or Jurgen Klopp. And Klopp is already deep in talks to take over the German National Team after another disastrous exit.

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This is a pivotal time for US Soccer, and it's extremely important to get this next cycle right. Hopefully they do.

Bernie-backed socialist who allied with Platner could supplant him on ballot

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:47:51 -0400

With Graham Platner facing mounting pressure to end his Senate campaign after rape allegations surfaced Monday, longtime Maine Democrat Troy Jackson filed paperwork Tuesday positioning himself to enter the U.S. Senate race should the Democratic nomination become available.

Prominent Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., have withdrawn their support for Platner and urged him to end his campaign. Platner has denied the allegations as "categorically false" and has remained in the race.

Under Maine law, Platner has until Monday, July 13, to withdraw if Democrats hope to replace him on the November ballot. If he steps aside before the deadline, the state Democratic Party will have until July 27 to choose a new nominee.

Jackson, who lost the Democratic gubernatorial primary just weeks ago, signaled his interest in the Senate race by filing a statement of candidacy with the Federal Election Commission. He later took to social media to condemn the allegations against Platner while emphasizing that he has not yet decided whether to seek the nomination.

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"While I haven't made any final decisions yet, I'm deeply humbled by the outpouring of support and encouragement I've received," Jackson wrote. "I'm currently weighing the best path forward to support our progressive movement and the working class political revolution Mainers are fighting for."

Jackson and Platner ran closely aligned progressive campaigns and appeared together at campaign events throughout the 2026 election cycle. Both embraced a progressive platform and earned the backing of Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.

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Following the allegations against Platner, however, Our Revolution — the progressive political organization Sanders founded after his 2016 presidential campaign — withdrew its endorsement of Platner and instead backed Jackson, whom it had also endorsed during his gubernatorial campaign.

"We have days, not weeks, to make sure a real progressive is on this ballot," Our Revolution Executive Director Joseph Geevarghese said in a statement.

"If we do not organize now, we risk watching the Democratic establishment handing Maine a corporate placeholder while the party that just got outvoted decides it knows better. We refuse to let that happen."

Jackson's ties to Sanders stretch back more than a decade. He was one of the few Democratic National Committee superdelegates to endorse Sanders over Hillary Clinton during the 2016 Democratic presidential primary and later served as Sanders' Maine political director, introducing him at campaign rallies across the state.

Sanders later returned the favor, endorsing Jackson's gubernatorial campaign and appearing alongside him on the campaign trail.

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"Fighting for the working class of Maine is not something new for Troy," Sanders said during a campaign rally. "That's what he has done for his entire life as a logger and as a member of the Maine state legislature. Troy knows what's going on with the working class of Maine because he's part of that working class."

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A fifth-generation logger and one of Maine's best-known labor Democrats, Jackson spent more than two decades in the state Legislature, including six years as president of the Maine Senate before leaving the post in 2024.

During his gubernatorial campaign, he ran on a platform that included universal child care, Medicare for all and the creation of a Department of Affordable Housing. He also secured endorsements from more than 20 labor unions, cementing his reputation as a working-class progressive.

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Despite his progressive politics, Jackson has repeatedly won elections in one of Maine's most Republican regions. He represented northern Aroostook County, a largely rural district that has consistently supported President Donald Trump by double-digit margins in recent presidential elections.

Jackson has argued that his success stems from focusing on working-class economic issues rather than partisan labels.

Fox News Digital reached out to Jackson for comment.

Brooks Nader showcases toned abs in vintage two-piece during Venice yacht getaway

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:41:07 -0400

Brooks Nader is continuing her stylish Euro summer.

The "Love Thy Nader" star shared a carousel of photos from Venice, Italy, after spending time in Croatia last week, giving followers another glimpse inside her overseas getaway.

Nader captioned the post with a series of playful messages, including, "Love this vintage set from the 1950s 😜," "Love you Venice 🇮🇹❤️" and "Moments before a gnarly sister fight that almost sent one of us overboard 😇."

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The model leaned into vintage glamour with a navy and white polka dot matching set while aboard a yacht in Venice.

The coordinated look featured a halter-style crop top paired with high-waisted fitted shorts that highlighted her toned figure. Nader completed the ensemble with oversized black sunglasses, diamond stud earrings and loose, beachy waves.

Nader later gave followers a glimpse of an unconventional workout while aboard the yacht.

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The "Baywatch" star stepped onto a treadmill wearing the same vintage-inspired set, adding black strappy heels and oversized sunglasses as the Venetian waterways stretched beyond the yacht's windows.

Another photo captured Nader striking a confident pose on the yacht's expansive deck.

The model showed off the coordinating halter top and high-waisted shorts while walking barefoot across the teak deck. Historic Venetian landmarks and the city's waterfront skyline created the backdrop behind her.

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She appeared to take in the warm Italian sunshine while lounging aboard the yacht.

Among the carousel's playful moments, Nader joked that a "gnarly sister fight" nearly sent one of them overboard.

One fan commented, "The overboard sisters caption is so relatable 😂. Stunning."

Nader replied, "the driver almost kicked us out 😂😂😂."

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Brooks is one of the four Nader sisters who have frequently documented their close bond and playful antics together on social media and reality television.

The sisters recently starred together in Hulu's "Love Thy Nader," which followed their personal and professional lives while navigating careers in modeling, relationships and life in New York City.

Outside of her European travels, Nader has been busy filming the upcoming "Baywatch" reboot, marking her first major acting role.

The model recently addressed criticism about the show's influencer-heavy cast during an interview with the Daily Mail in March 2026.

"I think that the times are different, and everyone is so multi-hyphenate now, and you can be both an actor and an influencer and have influence. And that's the beauty of the culture that social media has created," Nader said.

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"We now have platforms. I think, during the '90s, you didn't have social media, you didn't have Instagram or TikTok, and so people could use their voice now," she continued. "I think that there's so many amazing platforms and voices that are on the show, in the cast, and I think it'll only help the series."

While speaking with Fox News Digital in May, Nader said landing the role has been "the most exciting thrill of a lifetime."

"I cry every time I put the red suit on, because I'm like, 'This is my work uniform! What?'" she said.

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Stephanie White gives Caitlin Clark status update ahead of Fever-Sparks, but her next move raises questions

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:32:17 -0400

WNBA phenom Caitlin Clark is back for Wednesday night's game against the Los Angeles Sparks, but her return comes with a pretty massive catch.

After sitting out with a lingering back injury, the Indiana Fever star is ready to roll.

On Wednesday, Fever head coach Stephanie White revealed a surprising workload management plan for Indiana's back-to-back.

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Indy Star Fever reporter Chloe Peterson asked for an update on Clark's questionable status heading into the Sparks game, along with All-Star forward Aliyah Boston's injury status, and White dug into the Fever's plan.

"Yeah, [Boston] just did some of the shooting," White told Peterson. "She's gonna be out tonight, again, with the back-to-back. ... Caitlin's gonna be active tonight, AB's not, and then they'll flip-flop tomorrow."

So Clark will suit up Wednesday against the Sparks but is already ruled out for Thursday night's matchup with the Phoenix Mercury. Boston will do the exact opposite.

The move comes just days after the Fever rolled past the Las Vegas Aces 84-68 without Clark.

Through 17 games this season, Clark is averaging 21.2 points, 8.2 assists, 4.0 rebounds and 0.8 steals in 30.8 minutes per game.

What's the thinking behind this strategy?

Clark has built her reputation on wanting to play.

If she wakes up Thursday feeling healthy and ready to play, that decision has already been made for her.

Nobody is arguing against protecting the face of the franchise. White is right to prioritize Clark's long-term health after everything she's endured this season.

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But ruling her out more than 24 hours before tipoff feels overly cautious, especially with no way of knowing how she'll respond after Wednesday night's game. It also wouldn't be surprising if White closely manages Clark's minutes.

People buy tickets to watch the league's biggest stars, not to see them scratched because of a schedule.

Clark is the WNBA's biggest attraction, which means every game she misses prompts the same question: Was it really necessary?

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White's plan may ultimately prove to be the right one, but preemptively ruling Clark out for Thursday's game is only going to invite more criticism.

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Chili's goes viral after roasting fast-food prices: 'Why let them play you like this?'

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:27:52 -0400

Chili's took a shot at fast-food prices on social media and received a lot of love in return.

X user @YellowFlashGuy posted a photo of a menu showing what appeared to be a Bacon King sandwich meal, including french fries and a drink, priced at $18.19 at one Burger King location. The sandwich alone was listed for $12.99.

"Why should I get this when I could just go to a restaurant?" @YellowFlashGuy captioned the image. "The food would be close to this price, and better."

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"This is what we've been saying!!!!" Chili's responded. "Why do y'all let fast food play you like this? Big Crispy Chicken Sandwich 3 for Me with fries, BOTTOMLESS chips and salsa and UNLIMITED drink for $10.99, only at Chili's."

The Bacon King is a sandwich offered by Burger King that includes two quarter-pound beef patties with bacon, American cheese, ketchup and mayonnaise on a toasted sesame seed bun.

Most Burger King restaurants are locally owned and operated by franchise operators, according to the chain's website.

Prices and participation vary by location, Burger King says. Fox News Digital reached out to Burger King for comment.

Chili's response was viewed over 5 million times and gained a substantial number of positive reactions.

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"OK, I'm going to Chili's after work," one user posted. Chili's responded, "We can't wait!"

"I had the Big Crispy Chicken for lunch yesterday," another user commented. "Great food, great service and outstanding value!"

"That's what we're all about!" Chili's replied.

"Thank you for taking care of us, Chili's," wrote another user. "Chili's is for the people."

Not all the comments were positive, however.

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One user complained about receiving a medium-rare steak that "came out nearly blue," prompting Chili's to apologize and ask for additional feedback.

Other commenters defended the chain, saying the experience reflected one cook rather than the brand.

The Texas-based chain has been playfully taking aim at fast food over the last few years, a spokesperson for Chili's parent company, Brinker International, told Fox News Digital.

Most recently, in April, Chili's debuted its Big Crispy Chicken Sandwich.

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"The chicken sandwich category has exploded over the last few years, but consumers continue to feel the empty promise of so-called 'value' from fast-food restaurants," Chili's said in a news release announcing the chain's new chicken offerings.

The sandwich is part of Chili's value-focused 3 for Me platform, which starts at $10.99.

Major fast-food chains raised their prices by 60% on average between 2014 and 2024, a FinanceBuzz study found.

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"Sixty-eight percent of U.S. consumers say they are cutting back on restaurant dining this year and prioritizing affordability and convenience," restaurant technology company Popmenu reported.

Chili's focus on value appears to be driving the restaurant chain's growth.

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Brinker International reported in April that Chili's delivered its 20th consecutive quarter of same-store sales growth, with sales up 4%.

Lynette Hooker's mom alleges Brian Hooker lied about daughter's disappearance, claims 'foul play'

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:27:37 -0400

Months after Lynette Hooker vanished in the Bahamas, her mother is challenging husband Brian Hooker's version of what happened the night she disappeared.

Lynette Hooker, a Michigan woman who vanished while vacationing with her husband in the Bahamas in April, was reported missing April 4 after the couple was boating near Elbow Cay in the Abaco Islands.

Brian Hooker has maintained that his wife fell from a dinghy at night and was swept away by the current while they were en route to their sailboat, "Soulmate."

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Lynette's body has not been recovered.

Now, Lynette's mother, Darlene Hamlett, says she believes her daughter made it back to "Soulmate" before she vanished.

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"She made it back to the boat, and there was foul play," Hamlett told Fox News Digital.

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Hamlett did not elaborate on how she reached that conclusion but said she has been limited in what she can publicly discuss.

"As a mother, it's taking longer than I would anticipate, but that's what the Coast Guard told me to say. That's all I'm saying," she said.

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The U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service declined to comment on Hamlett's claims, telling Fox News Digital, "We cannot comment on ongoing investigation."

WATCH: COAST GUARD VIDEO REVEALS SEIZURE OF BRIAN HOOKER'S SAILBOAT AFTER WIFE'S BAHAMAS DISAPPEARANCE

Fox News Digital also reached out to Brian Hooker's attorney for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Hamlett's comments come after U.S. Coast Guard investigators traveled to the Bahamas last month to conduct dive searches in the Sea of Abaco and land searches with the assistance of a cadaver dog in an effort to locate Lynette.

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Investigators also returned to the United States with the dinghy Lynette was last known to be on. It is expected to undergo further forensic examination for potential evidence.

WATCH: Renewed search for Lynette Hooker being treated as homicide

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Brian Hooker initially told investigators he and his wife were on a nighttime boat ride when Lynette fell from a small dinghy and was swept away.

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According to authorities, Brian said he was forced to paddle back to shore because Lynette was carrying the dinghy's ignition key when she went overboard.

After Lynette disappeared, Brian said in a Facebook post that he was "heartbroken."

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"I am heartbroken over the recent boat accident in unpredictable seas and high winds that caused my beloved Lynette to fall from our small dinghy near Elbow Cay in the Bahamas," he wrote.

"Despite desperate attempts to reach her, the winds and currents drove us further apart. We continue to search for her, and that is my sole focus."

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After being questioned and released by Bahamian authorities, Brian Hooker returned to the United States and has not been seen or heard from publicly.

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He has not been charged with a crime or accused of wrongdoing.

WATCH: Dana White drops 2028 hints while raving about his favorite Trump cabinet secretary

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:25:48 -0400

Political heavyweight Dana White, whose endorsement of President Donald Trump was instrumental in his 2024 victory, is now hinting that he may jump back into presidential politics in 2028 because he has "become really close" with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

This comes as White’s UFC announced a rare "sports diplomacy" partnership with the State Department this week. White and Rubio signed a memorandum of understanding establishing the partnership last month, according to a UFC statement. The league said that as part of the agreement, UFC athletes and coaches will serve as "sports ambassadors" for young athletes around the world through the State Department’s Sports Envoy Program.

White was explicitly asked by OutKick’s Tomi Lahren, whether there are any leaders he is looking at for 2028, to which he responded, "It’s funny, As I was, leading up to the White House fight, doing all this media, you know, a lot of the left media was saying to me, ‘So, you’re out of politics after this, right?’ And I can’t remember who it was that I said it to but … I said, ‘I’ve become really close to Rubio.’ We’ve become really close."

"People are asking me if I’m going to get out of politics when the president leaves and I just said, ‘I’ve become very close to Rubio.’ He and I have become friends," he emphasized.

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White said that Rubio "is a great guy, I like him," adding, "He’s smart, I like the way he handles himself."

He also said, "I’ve met his sons, and I like his kids and, you know, so, never say never."

Pressed on whether Rubio is his official pick to succeed Trump as president, White clarified, "I’m not saying I’m picking." He noted that he also likes Vice President JD Vance, who, alongside Rubio, is a rumored 2028 presidential frontrunner.

"JD is a great guy too," said White, adding, "It’s a tricky situation, and I don’t know enough about politics to even comment on that, but, yeah, I don’t know, but it’s not a bad thing to have two strong candidates."

Rubio and Vance are the two Republicans most discussed as possible successors to Trump. While Rubio ran for president in 2016, he has expressed support for Vance, calling him a "close friend" and saying the vice president "would be a great nominee if he decides he wants to do that."

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Though White stopped short of issuing a full-throated endorsement of Rubio, his partnership with the State Department through UFC underscores the high regard he appears to have for the secretary.

This is the first time the UFC has entered into such a partnership with the State Department. The NFL, which entered into a similar agreement in January, is the only other major sports organization to have signed such a formal agreement with the department.

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UFC Chief Operating Officer Lawrence Epstein said the league is "thrilled" about the partnership. He said it would allow the State Department and UFC to "work together to build bridges through community engagement."

"We're excited to join this program, led by Secretary Rubio, as UFC is a truly global organization with athletes representing 75 countries. We can't wait to get started later this year," said Epstein.

VANCE TAKES LEAD SELLING TRUMP’S IRAN GAMBLE AS RUBIO, HEGSETH AND RATCLIFFE CEDE SPOTLIGHT ON FRAGILE DEAL

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In turn, Rubio spoke very highly of the UFC, saying it "has become a global phenomenon by embracing values that resonate far beyond the Octagon: excellence, discipline, opportunity, and meritocracy."

The secretary said the State Department is "proud" to launch the sports diplomacy partnership with UFC and to "continue growing the sport of MMA."

OutKick's Dan Dakich rips Big 12 commissioner over his antics at press conference: 'F--- you'

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:15:45 -0400

Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark is officially in the crosshairs of OutKick's Dan Dakich after a stunt the commish pulled this week.

During a contentious interaction between Yormark and Texas Tech media personality Sean Dillon, the commissioner seemed to get irritated by a question presented by Dillon to the point where the conference honcho told Dillon to "stand up" and ask the question again.

"Stand up. Ask that question again, and I'm going to give you the answer I want to give you," Yormark said.

COLLEGE QUARTERBACK WHO BET ON HIS OWN TEAM ALLOWED TO PLAY IN LANDMARK RULING, NCAA FILES APPEAL IN COURT

Say what?

Dakich, who isn't known to side with Big Js very often, couldn't believe what he was hearing out of the commissioner.

"These guys stand there like they're kings. Stand up! F--k you. I got a mic. I got a question," the host of "Don't @ Me" said during Wednesday's show. Keep in mind that Yormark is a 59-year-old Indiana grad. If Dan comes out with this strong of a take on a fellow IU guy, you know there's something cooking here.

TEXAS TECH QB’S GAMBLING SAGA NOW FEATURES TOM BRADY’S DEFLATEGATE LAWYER

"You ain't worth standing up. Don't answer the question. What are these guys? These guys are pasty white dudes that never played a sport in their life, politic their way through the athletic administration world. And now they're king? What? That is absolutely disgusting to me."

What did Dillon ask that was so preposterous that Yormark needed him to stand up?

Dillon asked a rambling question that started off with mention of the Big 12 banning the act of tossing tortillas during Tech games, a tradition that had gone on for 35 years. Then, he pivoted to Oklahoma State's tradition of slamming paddles into the padded walls at games. Ultimately, he got around to asking about quarterback Brendan Sorsby and how the Big 12 sued Tech while Sorsby's connection to Cincinnati hasn't brought heat on the Bearcats.

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Yormark seemed to blow his fuse when Dillon questioned the league's commitment to supporting all schools. We're talking some real minutiae here. None of this matters, guys.

What matters here is that Dakich sided with a credentialed member of the media. Hell has officially frozen over. Even Dan's sworn enemies noticed. We're talking a rare moment in OutKick history right here. Mark it down.

Potential 2028 Dem contender unloads on Netanyahu, admits US-Israel ties at 'crossroads'

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:08:30 -0400

Amid many Americans' plummeting support for Israel, potential Democratic presidential candidate Rahm Emanuel on Wednesday took aim at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Emanuel, who is Jewish and a longtime defender of Israel, appears to have changed his tune and is now cautioning that the alliance between the U.S. and Israel "cannot stand or survive as it’s been."

The former White House chief of staff to President Barack Obama and one-time Chicago mayor who later served as U.S. ambassador to Japan in the Biden administration, issued the tough-love message for America's increasingly isolated ally amid its ongoing military operations in Gaza against Hamas.

His message was blunt: Unconditional U.S. support for Israel needs to end, and Israel needs to make major changes if it wants to keep America as its top ally.

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"The hard truth is that America’s silence for years has engendered the worst of your domestic politics. We’ve done you no favors by averting our eyes," Emanuel argued during his more than 30-minute address at the University of Tel Aviv, the centerpiece of his trip to Israel this week.

And pointing to Netanyahu, Emanuel argued that America's "unconditional support has produced a prime minister who has presumed that his strategic interests would incur no cost if he ignored America’s concerns.

"I came here from Chicago to tell you directly where things need to head if we are to maintain the historic alliance between two democracies. Without question, the alliance is at a crossroads," he added.

NETANYAHU REJECTS REPORTS OF A RIFT WITH PRESIDENT TRUMP, SAYS THE TWO REMAIN ALIGNED ON IRAN

A horrific Hamas sneak attack on Oct. 7, 2023, killed roughly 1,200 people in Israel. The continued Israeli response over the past two and a half years has resulted in more than 73,000 people being killed, according to health officials in the Palestinian territory.

Israel's response has led to condemnation of the country from across the globe, including from longtime advocates for the Jewish state.

"Support for Israel is plummeting around the world. You’ve lost Europe, your biggest economic partner," Emanuel emphasized.

"Israel has never been more strategically isolated."

Democrats have become increasingly divided over the war in Gaza, with a growing number of politicians on the left charging that Israel's actions against the Palestinians are "genocide" and calling for a halt to longstanding U.S. military aid to the Middle East nation.

Roughly half of Democrats questioned in a new Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll said Israel had committed genocide in its war with Hamas. Meanwhile, 58% said the U.S. is "too supportive" of Israel, which is up 13 points since January.

Most Republicans remain strong supporters of Israel, although there's increasing unease among some in MAGA/America First camp.

The poll indicated a slight deterioration in support for Israel among those in the GOP, but overall only a sliver of Republicans questioned felt that Israel had committed genocide.

Emanuel called for a "new and fundamentally new approach to this alliance. … To maintain the strength of our ties, we need significant changes and a new direction."

21 DEMOCRATS WHO MAY RUN FOR THE WHITE HOUSE IN 2028

And he sketched out early ideas for a new peace process.

"The now-discredited path to a ‘two-state solution’ should be replaced by a 23-state solution: The 21 Arab nations that have exploited Palestinian rights as a slogan for decades now need to roll up their sleeves and stand up a governing authority capable of accepting the historic Jewish connection to this land," Emanuel proposed.

"If Israel made peace with 21 ... Arab nations, that would be your greatest day and Iran’s worst nightmare."

EMANUEL PUSHES BACK ON 'STRAIGHT WHILE MAN' - SAYS THIS IS WHAT MATTERS MOST IN 2028

Emanuel's proposals include sanctioning Israelis who attack Palestinian civilians and property, along with companies and banks that support Israeli settlements in the West Bank that most of the international community consider illegal.

He also called for ending U.S. subsidies to Israel’s defense budget, arguing the country "should be able to buy American arms under the same financial terms, the same restrictions and the same requirements as every other trusted ally that abides by our laws."

For Emanuel, long known as a moderate who has clashed with the left-wing faction of his party, the speech appeared to be an attempt to find what he's described as a realistic middle ground.

His message: "Those chanting ‘from the river to the sea’ need to hear this: You will never have your way.

"Those calling for a greater Israel, you need to hear this: You will never have your way, either. Both of them are fantasies chanted by fanatics that lead to perpetual endless conflict."

Netanyahu, who years ago famously slammed Emanuel as a "self-hating Jew," had yet to respond to the speech at the time this report posted.

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Emanuel, who has been crisscrossing the country this year as he considers a presidential bid, has made two stops in New Hampshire, which has traditionally held the first primary in the White House race.

He has also made trips to two other crucial early primary election states — Nevada and South Carolina.

'The View' host digs in with warning against socialist candidates amid reported Mamdani feud

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:00:38 -0400

"The View" co-host Sara Haines dug in against socialism on Wednesday after her co-host Joy Behar claimed it was just a buzzword for democracy and affordability, amid a reported feud between the liberal talk show and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

The co-hosts of the show debated recent comments from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt about Gen Z, as socialism and far-left candidates have won several recent elections across the U.S.

Behar called Democratic socialism a "buzzword" for democracy and affordability.

"They have bastardized the word," she added. "It is the sign of a sinking ship. The Republicans are going down the toilet, and they know it, so they’re pulling out these stupid cards like they’re calling Democrats communists. Give me a break."

THE NUMBERS DON’T LIE. YOUNG AMERICANS ARE FALLING IN LOVE… WITH SOCIALISM

"Millennials are the first generation that [are] not be better off than their parents," she said. "Home prices are up from 2005 to 2025, 115%, and AI is coming for a lot of jobs, so I understand why the whole idea of socialism or more larger government providing appeals to young people, but I think it’s important that you research who you’re voting for because as you said, Whoopi, make sure you do your own research, the Democratic Socialists of America also stand on their platform and some of the candidates for, not only reducing law enforcement, almost eliminating in some cases, eliminating borders at all, and eliminating prisons, so I can’t imagine a country where no prisons exist, no law enforcement, no borders."

"It doesn’t seem like anything can come but anarchy from that, so make sure you’re not sold on the idea of affordability but people coming in have other agendas," she added, noting that affordability has been an issue in the U.S.

The comments come after an aide for Mamdani reportedly lashed out at ABC executives after "The View" co-host Sara Haines called a Mamdani-backed socialist congressional candidate an antisemite.

'THE VIEW' EASED UP ON POLITICAL CANDIDATE BOOKINGS AMID FCC INQUIRY, REPORT SAYS

The New York City mayor's team had pitched the liberal talk show to have the socialist candidates on, but the show had declined, according to Semafor.

Mamdani flexed his political influence last month after three candidates that he endorsed in New York congressional primaries — Brad Lander, Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier — won over Democratic establishment candidates.

During an episode of the show on June 24, co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin and Haines pushed back on the actions and comments of some of the candidates backed by Mamdani. Haines said Chevalier was at an anti-Israel rally on Oct. 8, 2023, the day after Hamas' massive terrorist attack against Israel by Hamas.

MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALIST CANDIDATE STORMS OUT OF LIVE INTERVIEW WHEN CONFRONTED WITH OLD SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS

"I’m going to full-blown call her an antisemite. She would proudly call herself that, trust me," Haines said of Chevalier.

Following the comments, an aide for the socialist mayor reportedly unloaded on ABC executives, and said the remarks by Haines could affect future appearances on the show for the mayor or the candidates running for Congress, according to Semafor, who cited a person familiar with the matter.

An ABC source said "The View" is not known for booking political interviews with non-elected candidates.

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Leavitt made the remarks during an appearance on "Jesse Watters Primetime" on Thursday.

"This generation, my generation, I hate to say it, Gen Z, and those younger than me have been raised with just silver spoons in their mouths, just getting everything handed to them. That’s not the values this country was built on," she said, as they discussed the rise of socialist candidates in the country.

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Watters asked Leavitt if it was laziness and the country's education, as she said, "a little bit."

"It’s laziness, and it’s the liberal indoctrination," she continued.

Bunnie Xo sparks dating rumors with reality star at Nashville bar as Jelly Roll divorce looms

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:50:26 -0400

Bunnie Xo is in her dating era weeks after revealing the end of her marriage with Jelly Roll.

The podcast host, 46, was spotted kissing budding reality star Dylan Wolf during a Fourth of July event at the country star's JR's Goodnight Nashville Bar, according to footage obtained by TMZ.

Lights flashed throughout the VIP section of the venue as Wolf, who stars on Netflix's latest "Calabasas Confidential," leaned in to kiss the blonde bombshell.

JELLY ROLL FILES FOR DIVORCE FROM WIFE BUNNIE XO AFTER ALMOST A DECADE OF MARRIAGE

Wolf reportedly smoked a cigarette from the rooftop lounge as the pair watched a fireworks show on Independence Day.

BUNNIE XO SAYS SHE FUNDED JELLY ROLL'S EARLY CAREER BY 'TURNING TRICKS' WHILE REFLECTING ON DIVORCE

The following night, Bunnie – who's full name is Alisa DeFord – and Wolf were reportedly "laughing and getting all close and cuddly" at another Music City venue, according to the outlet.

As reports began surfacing about the new romance, Bunnie quietly deleted the episode of her podcast where she discussed her split from the country music star.

When a fan asked why she removed the post, Bunnie advised, "I'll talk about this week on ATC," alluding to her "Ask, Tell, Confess" series.

Representatives for both Bunnie and Wolf did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

The "Son of a Sinner" singer petitioned Tennessee courts for a divorce on May 18, according to documents obtained by Fox News Digital. He listed the date of separation as May 9 and cited irreconcilable differences.

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Bunnie Xo and Jelly Roll (born Jason DeFord) both fiercely defended their private relationship after news of their split broke the Internet with accusations of cheating.

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Of the many topics discussed in her "divorce" episode, Bunnie admitted that her past life as a high-end escort funded their lifestyle when they first dated.

"When Jay and I first got together, we were two kids who literally had nothing," Bunnie said of her ex. "Everybody always likes to say that I had all the money when we first got together, and I did this for him and I did that for him. And I mean, I had sugar daddies at the time that were paying for all of this.

"Like, we have — and I'm not trying to take the, the light off of what I did for him, but like, we were still in the streets. We were making money as it came."

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She added, "It wasn't like I was over here just sitting on f---ing a million dollars and was taking care of him. Like, I was turning tricks to pay our bills and to get lawyers and to travel and to, you know, go on tour and stuff like that."

The former couple tied the knot in August 2016 during a whirlwind Las Vegas ceremony after meeting the year prior. She became a stepmom to the country singer’s daughter, Bailee, and son, Noah.

Florida man gives an incredible interview about how he fought off an alligator with a fishing pole

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:43:55 -0400

A 71-year-old Florida man refused to be run off by any alligators, even one that grabbed him by the leg in his backyard and dragged him into the water. A quiet Friday night a couple of weeks ago turned into a fight for his life.

James Grayson McMicken's account of what happened is an incredible one. He's lucky to be alive after taking his bulldog and fishing pole out to the canal behind his home in Fort Myers.

He says he made one cast before the alligator jumped out of the water and grabbed him, telling Local 10 that, "I’m going to do everything I can not to die."

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After biting onto his right leg, the gator rolled him down the bank and into the water. That's when McMicken started fighting back.

"I stuck my thumb in one eye," he explained. "I just took that fishing pole and jabbed him in that other eye and jabbed him and jabbed him and jabbed him."

The thumb and fishing pole to the eyes worked. The alligator eventually decided that it had had enough of this senior citizen's counterattack and let him go.

McMicken added, "I've always heard that if you got no other choice, hit them eyes. And that’s what got him off of me."

TWO HIKERS CAPTURE TERRIFYING VIDEO OF CHARGING GRIZZLY BEARS AT GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

His dog, who must not have wanted anything to do with an alligator battle on a quiet Friday night, did help him to his feet so that he could walk back to his house where his wife cleaned him up.

McMicken then sat down in his chair and passed out before being rushed to a nearby hospital by his family. Getting bitten by an alligator and fighting it off with a fishing pole does have a few perks.

One of those perks is the attention of the nurses during his stay in the hospital. He claimed, "All the nurses on the floor had to come by and go, 'Wow, you did what?'"

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According to the local news outlet, the alligator in question hasn't been located. But that doesn't mean this Florida man is going anywhere. He's not.

James Grayson McMicken is recovering, giving awesome interviews, and plans to be fishing again soon. Though he won't be doing so at night near the water's edge as he did that night when he kicked an alligator's a--.

Add to cart: 9 things the FOX News Deals team bought this week

Fri, 08 May 2026 14:46:44 -0400

We spend our days sorting through products and deals to find the ones worth sharing, and along the way, we often add a few to our own carts. Now that summer is in full swing, we're reaching for products that make it easier to get outside and stay active. From Bose open-ear headphones and recovery shoes to lightweight, linerless workout shorts, these are the summer favorites we've already bought.

Please note that each opinion reflects the individual FOX News Deals team member, and your experience may vary.

Cuisinart steam cleaning grill brush: $42

"I'll admit, I was a little doubtful that steam cleaning would work on my grill, but this brush is the first one that actually got all the buildup off. As long as you dunk the sponge in water a few times during the cleaning process, the head scrubs even the dirtiest grates." — Christopher Murray, Commerce Writer

CRZ Yoga men's linerless workout shorts: $28

"For my summertime workouts, I love these lightweight shorts. They dry quickly, have a 5-inch inseam for easy movement (especially for squats) and have a few concealed zippered compartments for securely storing your AirPods or your wallet." — Moriba Cummings, Director of Commerce Content

Birkenstock Boston clogs: $169.95

"I’ve been looking for a comfortable pair of slip-on shoes to wear to Pilates, grab the mail and for quick grocery store runs. I tried several cheaper alternatives before finally ordering these Birkenstocks. They're well worth the investment, thanks to how comfortable and convenient they are." — Jaclyn Kaufman, Associate Production Editor

Bose Ultra Open earbuds: $299

"This was my first time trying the open ear concept for my running headphones and I don't regret it. I can stay aware of my surroundings (especially when my kids come with me), but with Bose, you don't sacrifice sound quality and bass." — Kelsey Ramírez, Production Editor

Crowd Cow

"I've been underwhelmed with the meat selection at my local grocery store lately, so I ordered a make-your-own Crowd Cow box and included some ribs for the Fourth of July. The ribs were amazing, and the chicken was very high quality as well. The price was fair for what you get, and fairly similar to what I'd pay at the grocery store. I will be placing monthly orders from now on." — Jenny Op't Holt, VP of Commerce Partnerships

Kane Active Recovery Shoes: $85

"These Kane Active Recovery shoes are comfortable and easy to clean. They can be worn around town or even in the water. The experience would be even better if Kane threw in a pair of socks for first-time buyers." — Erik Weigel, Commerce General Manager

Gooby dog harness: $19.99

"I bought this harness for my 5-year-old poodle in hopes of keeping her more secure while out for walks. It's quite easy to put on and the reflector is a nice touch for late night walks. Overall, my dog seems more comfortable and secure than the previous over-head fascinator harness." — Brianna DiCamillo, Commerce Analytics Manager

Kenra Professional Volume Spray: $10

"I have fine, frizz-prone hair, so I asked my hairstylist to recommend a strong-hold, volumizing hairspray for summer. Her top pick was this $10 formula, which helps hold curls and waves through heat, wind and humidity without leaving behind a crunchy finish." — Caitlyn Martyn, Commerce Editor

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

Patrick Ewing Rogue sneakers: $85

"Over the past year, I've started collecting basketball sneakers, especially from the Ewing Athletics brand. This new pair really stood out to me for its design, which features straps that change colors as you move your feet. The midsole provides lightweight cushioning for lasting comfort." — Christopher Hindenach, Commerce Editor

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.

Justin Verlander announces he will retire after this season: 'I've realized that time has come'

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:37:03 -0400

One of the greatest pitchers in the history of baseball will be hanging up his cleats after this season.

Three-time Cy Young Award winner Justin Verlander announced on Wednesday that the 2026 season will be his last.

Amid an injury-riddled season with the Detroit Tigers, Verlander decided it's time to go.

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"This season has challenged me in ways I haven’t experienced before, both physically and mentally. I’ve always believed that as long as I could compete at the level I expect of myself, I’d keep playing. I never wanted to retire because of a milestone, a number, or a date on the calendar. I wanted the game to tell me when it was time. Over the last several months, I’ve realized that time has come," Verlander said in a social media post.

"While I’m fully committed to giving my team everything I have for the rest of this season, I’ve decided this will be my last. It’s fitting that I get to finish where it all started – with the Detroit Tigers, the organization that drafted me and gave me my first opportunity."

Verlander inked a one-year deal with the Tigers, with whom he spent his first 12½ seasons before being traded to the Houston Astros, in the offseason. In Houston, he returned to dominance, winning both of his World Series titles and two of his Cy Young Awards.

"Baseball has given me more than I could have imagined. It taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of continuing to adapt and evolve. I’ve been fortunate to play with and against incredible players, for outstanding organizations, and compete in-front of fans who deeply appreciate the game," Verlander added in his announcement.

PHILLIES STAR SAYS 'BS RULE' IS KEEPING HIM FROM BEING NAMED ALL-STAR IN FRONT OF HOME CROWD

"To every teammate, coach, player, clubhouse attendant, and fan who has been part of this journey – thank you. It’s been a privilege to share the field with you. To my family, especially my wife Kate, thank you for standing beside me through every season, every rehab, and every high and low. I couldn’t have done this without you. It’s time for the next chapter. But first, I’m excited to finish this season the only way I know how - with everything I’ve got."

Verlander is the active leader with 3,554 strikeouts, which is good for eighth all-time. He needs 21 to surpass Don Sutton and 87 to pass Tom Seaver.

The 43-year-old made his MLB debut in 2005 and won the American League Rookie of the Year Award the following season in what was just a small glimpse of what was to come.

Verlander was a Cy Young Award finalist on four other occasions, consistently near the top of the leaderboard in just about every pitching stat. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred gave Verlander a legend's exemption to this year's Midsummer Classic, making him a 10-time All-Star.

One could argue that Verlander should have at least one more Cy Young Award on his mantle, but he is on the fast track to Cooperstown and very much in the conversation to join Mariano Rivera as the only player unanimously elected to the Hall of Fame.

Verlander's best season came in 2022, when he pitched to a career-best 1.75 ERA along with a 0.829 WHIP. However, that came after he missed the entire 2021 season due to Tommy John surgery for an injury he suffered after pitching just one inning in the abbreviated 2020 season.

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He won his first Cy Young Award in 2011, when he was also awarded the MVP Award, and his second in 2019. Verlander's 11 seasons between his first and final Cy Young Awards are the second-most behind Roger Clemens, who had 18 seasons between his first and seventh.

Verlander led the majors in innings and WHIP four times while recording the most strikeouts in three seasons.

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Dan Bongino says Democrats dumped Graham Platner over 'power' not 'principle' after bombshell rape allegation

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:32:39 -0400

Former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino accused top Democrats of putting "power" ahead of principle, insisting many have only turned on embattled Senate candidate Graham Platner after concluding he could no longer win.

"There were no principles involved here at all," Bongino told "The Ingraham Angle" on Tuesday.

"The left are the anti-anti-communist. They're just against us and whatever we stand for to advance their communist agenda, and this guy was a tool that's no longer sharp for them."

KINGMAKER MAMDANI CALLS ON PLATNER TO 'DROP OUT OF THE RACE' AFTER RAPE ALLEGATION

Several Democrats and progressives, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., and Sens. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., have either rescinded their support for Platner or called on him to end his campaign following a rape accusation.

While still reeling from the initial accusation, Platner was hit with a second allegation of sexual impropriety about 24 hours later when, according to a Washington Post report, he was accused of removing condoms during sex with his ex-girlfriend Lyndsey Fifield after she explicitly asked him to wear them.

The shocking allegations have further jeopardized an already scandal-plagued campaign to oust incumbent Sen. Susan Collins.

NEW EXPLOSIVE ALLEGATION ROCKS PLATNER CAMPAIGN STILL REELING FROM RAPE ACCUSATION

Platner's campaign has denied both accusations, specifically telling The Washington Post that the latter of the two was "categorically false and politically motivated."

Platner's campaign did not respond to Fox News Digital's previous requests for comment.

Bongino and other Republicans have blasted Democrats after their sweeping change of heart regarding Platner.

"This is not about any principle whatsoever. It's not about Platner's position on women or taxes or anything like that. This is about a simple power equation," Bongino said.

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"Platner was an acquisition tool for more power for this collectivist communist left. That is it. The sole principle in their triage of needs was power, and he was a useful tool to get there."

Fox News' Peter D'Abrosca contributed to this report.