Social Media

Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, has long been heralded as a cautionary tale of "ecocide," where an early population supposedly brought about its own downfall through environmental destruction. This narrative, popularized by prominent figures such as Jared Diamond, posits that the island's inhabitants deforested the land at unsustainable rates to support agriculture, fuel needs, and the transport of their iconic stone statues, the moai. The collapse of the island's society was thought to have been inevitable, leading to a severely reduced population by the time Europeans arrived in the 18th century. However, new research is challenging this long-standing theory. A study led by Dr. Dylan Davis from Columbia University, published in the journal Science Advances, presents evidence suggesting that the population of Rapa Nui was not in decline when Europeans first arrived, but rather, was at its sustainable peak. Using high-resolution shortwave infrared and near-infrared satellite imagery combined with machine learning, Davis and his colleagues identified archaeological sites indicative of rock gardening, a method used by the islanders to cultivate crops such as sweet potatoes. Their findings indicate that only 0.76 square kilometers of land were used for rock gardening, a figure significantly lower than previous estimates that mistakenly included natural lava flows as agricultural sites. This limited area of cultivated land could have supported a maximum of 3,900 people, with an average estimate of around 2,000. When considering other food sources like fishing and foraging, this number could potentially rise to 4,000, but it still falls far short of earlier population estimates of up to 17,000. Dr. Davis remarked, "Our study confirms that the island couldn’t have supported more than a few thousand people. As such, contrary to the ecocide narrative, the population present at European arrival wasn’t the remnants of Rapa Nui society, but was likely the society at its peak, living at the levels that were sustainable on the island." This suggests that the dramatic population decline theorized by the ecocide model may not have occurred. One of the major arguments supporting the ecocide theory was the assumption that a large population was necessary to construct and transport the moai statues. However, Davis pointed out that archaeological evidence does not support the existence of a large population. Studies of the moai suggest that a smaller population, through cooperation, could have built and moved these statues. Furthermore, Davis noted that the first settlers of Rapa Nui, arriving around AD 1200-1250, encountered an island covered in forest but with limited soil nutrients. The arrival of the Polynesian rat, which consumed seeds, contributed significantly to the decline of the tree population rather than human activity alone. By the time Europeans arrived, they found a society that had adapted to its environment, cultivating much of their food in rock gardens amidst an otherwise unfarmable landscape. "When Europeans arrived in the 18th century, they found a society living within their means," Davis explained. Supporting this revisionist view, Prof. Sue Hamilton from University College London, who was not involved in the study, noted that for over a decade, the idea of ecocide on Rapa Nui has been increasingly questioned. While she praised the new study for its ingenuity, she also pointed out its limitations. Hamilton highlighted that it is challenging to extrapolate the size of the population solely from the extent of rock gardening and that these gardens may have been used at different times. Additionally, she suggested that some rock gardening sites might have been overlooked. "The situation is quite simply more complex than this one line of study alone can resolve," Hamilton concluded. Despite these challenges, the study by Davis and his colleagues represents a significant step in re-evaluating the history of Rapa Nui, suggesting that its population managed their resources more sustainably than previously thought and challenging the narrative of self-inflicted ecological disaster. Credit: The Guardian 2024-06-25 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

The Gambling Commission has significantly broadened its investigation into the betting scandal involving the Conservative Party, focusing on hundreds of suspicious bets. This intensification of scrutiny comes after a dossier listing all bets exceeding £199 was handed over by betting companies to the watchdog. Investigators are now examining a spreadsheet of names, looking for connections between the gamblers and the Conservative Party. This scandal has added another layer of controversy to the Conservative election campaign, drawing unflattering comparisons to the Partygate saga. Betting companies first became suspicious when there was a surge in betting activity shortly before Rishi Sunak's surprise announcement of an early election. Entain, the owner of Ladbrokes and Coral, notified the Gambling Commission after discovering that Craig Williams, an aide to Sunak, had placed a £100 bet on a July election. Williams, who is a former MP and current electoral candidate, was flagged as a politically exposed person (PEP), a term used for individuals who could potentially exploit their position for private gain. Williams admitted to making what he described as a "flutter" and conceded it was a "huge error of judgment." After receiving this tip-off, the Gambling Commission contacted various betting companies, requesting lists of all bets placed on a July election within the same timeframe. This process revealed hundreds of names, a surprising number given the niche nature of political betting. Officials are now diligently working through this list to identify any links to the Conservative Party, also examining social media profiles for additional clues. While none of the bets were particularly large, it is believed that those involved understood that significant wagers would trigger increased scrutiny. Currently, four Conservatives and one of Sunak's police protection officers are under investigation, casting a shadow over the party's struggling campaign. Nick Mason, the Tories’ chief data officer, is under investigation for allegedly placing numerous bets, potentially winning thousands of pounds. The Sunday Times revealed that Mason's winnings could have amounted to thousands of pounds. Other individuals under scrutiny include Laura Saunders, the Tory candidate for Bristol North West, her husband Tony Lee, the party’s director of campaigning, and Williams. On Sunday, Home Secretary James Cleverly urged aides and insiders who placed bets on the timing of the general election to cooperate with the inquiry. Speaking to Times Radio, he stated he would prefer not to discuss the "inappropriate behaviour" of staff at Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ) but acknowledged that those who placed bets need to come forward. Cleverly emphasized, "I would always say people should do the right thing." Cleverly also told Sky News that there was "no reason to believe" that cabinet ministers placed bets on the timing of the general election and said the allegations involved a "small number of individuals." However, former Conservative whip Anne Milton criticized Sunak's decision not to suspend the whip from those being investigated, arguing that suspension is standard procedure in any other workplace while allegations are examined. Milton told Times Radio, "There appears to be no leadership from the top. Suspension is the right thing to do while people are investigated. It’s harsh if the allegations are found not to be true, but that is what would happen in any other sphere of work." Additionally, two former Tory chancellors have criticized Sunak for calling the election early. Philip Hammond suggested that waiting until autumn could have allowed the Conservative Party to benefit from a potential cut in interest rates. Hammond stated on BBC's Laura Kuenssberg show, "I don’t personally understand why we’re having an election in July. I would have liked to have seen the election later in the year." Kwasi Kwarteng echoed this sentiment, warning that calling the election early could backfire. Speaking to GB News, Kwarteng said, "If we do lose that badly, there’ll be lots of debate. People will be blaming each other. Everyone will be blaming everyone else. But the leader has to take responsibility. The leader of the party has to take some responsibility." A spokeswoman for the Gambling Commission commented, "The Gambling Commission regulates gambling in the interests of consumers and the wider public. Currently, the commission is investigating the possibility of offences concerning the date of the election. This is an ongoing investigation, and the commission cannot provide any further details at this time." As the investigation continues, the Conservative Party faces increasing pressure to address the scandal and its potential impact on their election campaign. Credit: The Times 2024-06-25 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Post has been removed for making unsubstaniated claims involving genocide and the holocaust @johng

An off topic post with additional unsupported claims has been removed.

Post contavening community standards has been removed: 27. You will not post any copyrighted material except as fair use laws apply (as in the case of news articles). Only post a link, the headline and three sentences from the article. Content in the public domain is limited to the same restrictions.

In a series of violent and coordinated assaults, gunmen attacked multiple religious sites and a police checkpoint in Russia’s Dagestan province, resulting in the deaths of at least nine individuals and injuring 25 others. These brutal incidents unfolded in the cities of Derbent and Makhachkala, situated approximately 120 kilometers apart, with the attackers targeting churches, synagogues, and law enforcement officers. The carnage began with attacks on places of worship. Among the deceased are seven law enforcement officers, a priest, and a church security guard. Additionally, four militants were killed in confrontations with security forces, according to the Russian news agency TASS. One particularly tragic incident involved Father Nikolay, a 66-year-old priest in Derbent, who was brutally slain in his church. Shamil Khadulaev, Chairman of the Dagestan Public Monitoring Commission, disclosed that Father Nikolay had his throat slit and that a security guard armed only with a pistol was shot dead in the same attack. A coordinated terrorist attack in Dagestan, Russia. This video shows their faces. A Synagogue, an Orthodox church, and Police were hit. Terrorists slit the throat of a 66-year old Orthodox priest Mykola in Derbent. In another harrowing scene, a shootout at a church in Makhachkala forced 19 people to lock themselves inside for safety. The clash ended with the death of at least one attacker, as reported by TASS, citing the Ministry of Internal Affairs for Dagestan. The head of the "Dagestan Lights" police department, Mavludin Khidirnabiev, was among the law enforcement officers who lost their lives during these violent encounters. The attacks extended to synagogues, further heightening the sense of horror. In Derbent, a synagogue was set ablaze, with images showing flames and thick smoke engulfing the building. Meanwhile, another synagogue in Makhachkala came under gunfire. According to a statement from the Israeli Foreign Ministry, these assaults were part of a “combined attack” on the synagogues. The statement confirmed that the Derbent synagogue was burned to the ground and local guards were killed, but fortunately, there were no worshippers inside the synagogues during the attacks, and no casualties were reported from the Jewish community. Reacting to the violence, Sergey Melikov, the head of the Dagestan Republic, issued a message on Telegram, asserting that “unknown persons made attempts to destabilize the social situation.” He praised the efforts of Dagestan police officers who intervened, despite suffering casualties. Melikov reassured the public that the attackers' identities are being determined, and a counteroperation plan, code-named “Interception,” is in progress. He urged residents to remain calm, emphasizing that “Panic and fear are what they were counting on ... They won’t get this from Dagestanis!” The Investigative Directorate of the Investigative Committee of Russia for the Republic of Dagestan has launched a terror investigation under the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. The committee stated, “All the circumstances of the incident and the persons involved in the terrorist attacks are being established, and their actions will be given a legal assessment.” These tragic events have cast a shadow over Dagestan, a region already fraught with socio-political challenges. The coordinated nature of the attacks suggests a deliberate attempt to incite fear and chaos, but the resilience and swift response of local authorities highlight their determination to maintain stability and bring the perpetrators to justice. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on healing the wounds inflicted by this senseless violence and preventing future atrocities. Credit: CNN | X 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In the shifting sands of French politics, an alignment is emerging between the nation's hard Right and its corporate titans. This unusual concordance arises as Emmanuel Macron's presidency falters, and the specter of alternative political factions looms large. French big business, traditionally cautious about right-wing populism, now seems increasingly willing to consider an alliance with Marine Le Pen’s National Rally. The political dynamics have been drastically reshaped by widespread disillusionment with Macron. Once hailed as a reformist savior, his administration is now marked by controversial policies and a perceived disconnect from the electorate. This has left many, including influential business leaders, seeking new avenues to ensure economic stability and growth. The business lobby MEDEF, representing the country's major corporate interests, has voiced significant concerns over the potential rise of the Left’s Front Populaire. This group, currently running a close second in the polls, proposes rolling back the retirement age to 60 and undoing many of Macron’s economic reforms. Patrick Martin, MEDEF's president, described their program as “an absolute red flag. It would lead to €200bn of extra public spending each year, financed by taxes or borrowing. That will end badly.” Martin’s warning echoes historical fears, drawing parallels with the original Front Populaire of 1936, which led to capital flight and economic crisis. MEDEF is equally apprehensive about a possible hung parliament, dominated by polarized factions from both political extremes. Such a scenario could lead to governmental paralysis and exacerbate France’s economic challenges. Europe 1 has reported that Macron might invoke Article 16, granting him powers akin to those of a Roman dictator to maintain governmental function, though this would likely spark significant civil unrest. In this fraught context, there is a cautious optimism within business circles about the National Rally, especially in light of Italy’s recent experience with its hard Right under Giorgia Meloni. Despite initial fears of radical economic policies, Meloni has navigated a pragmatic course, balancing populist rhetoric with fiscal responsibility to secure EU funds and maintain stability. This approach has provided a potential blueprint for Marine Le Pen and her party. However, France’s political landscape presents unique challenges. The National Rally has deliberately kept its economic plans vague, blending protectionist and welfare policies with market-friendly rhetoric. Jordan Bardella, a key figure in the party and potential future prime minister, has indicated that many policy implementations will be delayed until after an audit of public finances. This could provide political cover for a retreat from more radical proposals if necessary. Bardella has sought to reassure business leaders, stating, “I have come to reassure you. Financial constraints oblige us to make choices.” His comments at a recent MEDEF forum suggested a willingness to align with corporate interests and uphold France’s treaty obligations. Not everyone within the National Rally is pleased with this shift. Bernard Monot, a former Euro-MP and economic strategist for the party, criticized Bardella’s concessions to liberal Atlanticism. “Bardella has already sold out completely. It is not the patriotic economic model that I wanted. He’s changed the party’s position on fundamental positions. He’s pro-Zelensky and pro-Nato, just like Meloni. He is entirely compatible with liberal Atlanticism,” Monot lamented. His departure underscores the internal tensions and challenges of reconciling populist ideals with economic pragmatism. Macron’s presidency has been further strained by his use of executive powers, such as Article 49.3, to push through unpopular reforms, including changes to the pension system. His unilateral approach has alienated many, including his own supporters, fueling public resentment. This political climate has created an atmosphere of urgency among those seeking to address pressing national issues like immigration and economic decline. Jean-Louis Debré, a veteran Gaulliste and former head of the Constitutional Court, succinctly captured the sentiment: “Macron’s record is quite remarkable: he has fanned the flames of populism, and broken the responsible parties of Left and Right, without building anything to replace them.” Debré attributed the deeper unrest to “a worry about uncontrolled immigration, and a palpable sense of national decline, and an intolerable feeling of insecurity that nobody is tackling.” Macron’s diminishing support base, struggling to find a masterstroke in his political maneuvers, faces the harsh reality of his dwindling influence. His decision to call a snap election, perceived by many as a petulant move to avoid being a lame-duck president, has only added to the political chaos. As France grapples with the consequences of his governance, the prospect of a hard Right and big business alliance marks a significant shift. In this context, the potential for an alliance between the hard Right and corporate France represents not only a pragmatic choice by business leaders but also a broader commentary on the nation’s political and economic state. Whether this partnership can navigate France’s challenges and deliver stability remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly signifies a pivotal moment in the country’s evolving political landscape. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In a climate reminiscent of the period leading up to the 9/11 attacks, the United States once again faces significant terrorist threats. Current FBI Director Christopher Wray, among other senior officials, has been vocal about the rising dangers. His warnings are strikingly similar to those issued by former CIA Director George Tenet, who persistently sounded the alarm about Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda before the devastating attacks on September 11, 2001. Wray has consistently highlighted an increasingly dangerous environment, exacerbated by the recent attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7. He has publicly emphasized the vulnerabilities at the United States’ southern border, where thousands of individuals cross undetected each week. This concern reflects the broader issue of foreign terrorists potentially exploiting any entry point into the country. The seriousness of the current threat landscape is underscored by the statements from other high-ranking officials. General Erik Kurilla of CENTCOM has pointed out the alarming capabilities of various terrorist groups, including ISIS, al Qaeda, and particularly ISIS-K, the ISIS affiliate operating in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Kurilla has warned that ISIS-K could launch an operation against U.S. or Western interests with little to no warning. Additionally, Christine Abizaid, the outgoing Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, has described the global threat environment as significantly elevated. These concerns are not just theoretical. Recent successful and thwarted attacks around the world indicate a growing danger. For instance, ISIS-K has carried out deadly attacks in Iran and Russia, illustrating its capability to inflict substantial harm. In the United States, the FBI has thwarted several plots, including a significant plan to attack critical infrastructure last fall. This highlights the persistent threat from both foreign and domestic terrorists. Wray has publicly categorized threats into three main areas: international terrorism, domestic terrorism, and state-sponsored terrorism. All these categories are simultaneously elevated, posing a complex and multifaceted danger. He has specifically pointed to Iran as a potential state sponsor of terrorism, noting that Tehran continues to plot against high-ranking U.S. officials in retaliation for the assassination of Qasem Soleimani in January 2020. Although these plans have been unsuccessful so far, the risk remains high. Moreover, Wray has raised concerns about security vulnerabilities at the U.S. southern border. He has warned that foreign terrorists could exploit this entry point, drawing attention to specific smuggling networks with ties to ISIS. This scenario underscores the importance of robust border security measures to prevent potential terrorists from entering the country. Given the alarming rise in threats, the U.S. administration must adopt a proactive approach to counterterrorism. This involves drawing lessons from past successes and failures. For instance, President Bill Clinton’s response to the millennium-era threats in 1999 offers valuable insights. Back then, U.S. intelligence agencies collected information suggesting that al Qaeda was preparing to launch multiple attacks. Although the exact targets and methods were unclear, Clinton ordered a comprehensive and aggressive response. This included a series of operations in 53 countries, targeting 38 different terrorist cells, resulting in numerous detentions and disrupted plots. One of the most notable successes from this period was the prevention of a planned attack on Los Angeles International Airport in December 1999. Alert immigration officers at the U.S.-Canadian border arrested al Qaeda operative Ahmed Ressam, who was carrying 100 pounds of high explosives and materials for multiple detonators. This incident demonstrates the effectiveness of heightened vigilance and swift action in preventing terrorist attacks. For the current administration, a similar comprehensive campaign is essential. This begins with the intelligence and security community providing clear and consistent information about the threats. While Wray and Kurilla have been vocal, other officials need to be equally transparent. Congressional intelligence committees should hold unclassified hearings with the directors of national intelligence agencies to offer their candid assessments. This will help policymakers and the public understand the gravity of the threats and the necessary responses. Intelligence agencies should also reexamine previously collected information related to terrorism. Revisiting earlier reports can reveal new insights or uncover overlooked details, which might be crucial in identifying and thwarting potential plots. This approach was undertaken by the CIA in the summer of 2001, although it did not prevent the 9/11 attacks, it did highlight valuable information that had been previously missed. Additionally, the U.S. must take steps to address the vulnerabilities at its borders. President Biden’s recent executive order to restrict asylum processing is a step in the right direction, but further measures are needed to ensure that terrorists do not exploit the overwhelmed southern border. This may include the use of national emergency authorities to enhance border security and limit the entry of potential terrorists. Preventive action must also extend beyond U.S. borders. Given the immediate threat posed by ISIS-K, the U.S. may need to consider unprecedented measures, such as limited cooperation with the Taliban. Although the idea of working with the Taliban is controversial, the group is also an adversary of ISIS-K. Intelligence exchanges, where the U.S. provides information about possible ISIS-K targets in Afghanistan in return for insights from the Taliban about the group’s capabilities and plans, could be mutually beneficial. This approach should also extend to Pakistan, where ISIS-K operates as well. Collaborative efforts to neutralize the group’s capabilities can significantly reduce the threat it poses. Such measures require careful coordination and trust-building but are necessary to prevent potential attacks on U.S. interests. While these steps are challenging, especially in an election year, the threat of terrorism cannot be ignored. Terrorist groups do not respect political calendars and can strike without warning. Over the past two decades, the efforts of thousands of Americans in the military and intelligence communities have prevented another major attack like 9/11. However, the work is far from over. Policymakers must rise to the challenge to protect the U.S. homeland from an ever-present and evolving terrorist threat. In conclusion, the current warnings from FBI Director Christopher Wray and other officials indicate a serious threat of a terrorist attack in the coming months. The administration must adopt a comprehensive and proactive approach to counterterrorism, drawing on lessons from the past and taking decisive action to prevent potential attacks. This involves enhancing intelligence efforts, securing borders, and addressing threats overseas. The stakes are high, and complacency is a greater risk than alarmism. Credit: Foreign Affairs 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Across the globe, people are facing severe heat, floods, and fires, exacerbated by the persistent use of fossil fuels. The year isn’t halfway done, yet the impact is already devastating. In recent weeks, poll workers, pilgrims, and tourists on hikes have succumbed to the blistering heat. This serves as a stark reminder of the global dangers posed by extreme weather, as a heatwave now bears down on nearly 100 million Americans. Mexico saw dozens of cities break heat records in May and June, resulting in more than 100 deaths. India is enduring an extraordinarily long heatwave that has claimed the lives of several election workers. In Delhi, even overnight temperatures remain in the mid-90s Fahrenheit (mid-30s Celsius). Greece is bracing for wildfires after consecutive heatwaves killed several tourists. In Bamako, Mali’s capital, hospitals reported over 100 excess deaths in the first four days of April. Between May 2023 and May 2024, an estimated 6.3 billion people, or roughly four out of five worldwide, experienced at least a month of abnormally high temperatures in their regions, according to Climate Central, a scientific nonprofit. The full extent of the damage to human health, agriculture, and the global economy is only beginning to be understood. Extreme heat killed an estimated 489,000 people annually between 2000 and 2019, according to the World Meteorological Organization, making heat the deadliest of all extreme weather events. Swiss RE, the insurance-industry giant, recently reported that the accumulating hazards of climate change could drive the growing market for insurance against strikes and riots. "Climate change may also drive food and water shortages and in turn civil unrest, and mass migration," the report said. Both China and the United States, the world’s two rival economic powers, face a common peril this summer. As one-fifth of all Americans were under an extreme-heat alert, several areas in northern China broke maximum temperature records. Earlier in the week, Beijing faced a heat alert with temperatures reaching 99 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). The two countries are also the largest producers of greenhouse gases. China’s current emissions are the highest globally, and the United States has the highest cumulative emissions over the past 150 years. These emissions, resulting from fossil fuel burning, drive bouts of abnormally high temperatures. "Unsurprisingly, heat waves are getting deadlier," said Friederike Otto, a climate scientist at Imperial College in London. Global temperatures in the first five months of the year have been the highest since modern record-keeping began, potentially making 2024 the hottest year in recorded history. Saudi Arabia experienced a tragic event when 1,000 people died during the hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, as reported by Agence France-Presse. In central Algeria, riots erupted over water shortages in mid-June due to rising temperatures and a lack of rain. Doctors worldwide have increasingly highlighted heat’s often underappreciated effect on health. Many hospital systems lack adequate methods to count heat-related illnesses or deaths, as heat can aggravate conditions like kidney disease or asthma. Consequently, deaths due to heat are sometimes attributed to other causes, appearing as a pattern of excess deaths. "A transition away from fossil fuels is the best way to prevent deaths and illness from heat in the future—everything else is just a Band-Aid on a bullet wound," said Renee Salas, an emergency-room doctor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Heat isn’t the only extreme weather hazard affecting the world. In China’s northern agricultural provinces, high temperatures have dried out soils, prompting emergency-response measures against an expanding drought, including cloud-seeding operations. Meanwhile, heavy rains have inundated southern China, causing landslides, road blockages, and power outages affecting 100,000 households. In the United States, New Mexico experienced fires and floods within a week. Roughly 23,000 acres burned in southern New Mexico due to fast-moving wildfires, claiming at least two lives. Then, torrential rains and floods rushed down burn-scarred hillsides. In Florida, three days of tropical rains wreaked havoc on airports and highways. On Thursday, the Atlantic hurricane season’s first named storm, Alberto, hit the northeastern coast of Mexico, resulting in three child fatalities. One child drowned trying to rescue a ball in a fast-moving river, and two others were electrocuted when a cable made contact with a pond. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects an unusually strong hurricane season due to the extraordinarily hot ocean, a result of fossil fuel burning. Credit: New York Times 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fox News host and former Congressman Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.) cautioned Republicans against underestimating President Joe Biden's debate performance against former President Donald Trump in the upcoming debate. Speaking with fellow Fox News host Shannon Bream, Gowdy highlighted the risks Republicans face if they continue to portray Biden as an incapable opponent. In the conversation, Bream posed a critical question to Gowdy: “Are Republicans in trouble regarding debate expectations after spending weeks characterizing Biden as an old, feeble man?” Gowdy's response emphasized the need for caution. "They [Republicans] gotta be very careful. I mean, I don’t know why Republicans fall into this trap of setting high expectations," he said, alluding to the heightened expectations for Trump's performance against Biden. Gowdy elaborated on the unique nature of the upcoming debate, stating, “This debate, Shannon, to me is fascinating because it’s a combination of agenda and acuity, it’s content and cognitions. So the viewers will be watching both not only what you say, but are you fit for office? So, I don’t recall a debate in my lifetime where both of those issues were front and center for both of the candidates.” Amidst this debate preparation, Trump and his supporters have floated baseless claims suggesting that any strong performance by Biden might be attributed to performance-enhancing drugs. Despite these allegations, Trump himself expressed caution about underestimating Biden. In a recent episode of the "All-In" podcast, Trump recalled Biden's strong debate against former House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) during the 2012 vice presidential debate, saying, “Well, all I can say is this: I watched him with Paul Ryan, and he destroyed Paul Ryan. And he beat Paul Ryan, so, I’m not underestimating him.” Biden's energetic and combative performance against Ryan in 2012 is often remembered as a significant victory that showcased his debating skills. As the upcoming debate on June 27 on CNN approaches, the stakes are high, with both Biden's and Trump's fitness for office and policy positions under intense scrutiny. Credit: Hill 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

David DePape, the man convicted of attacking Paul Pelosi, husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, now faces an additional conviction for aggravated kidnapping in a state court. DePape, already sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for the 2022 attack, could potentially spend the rest of his life behind bars following this new conviction. Last month, a federal judge handed DePape a 30-year sentence for the brutal assault on Paul Pelosi. However, the legal proceedings against him did not end there. On Friday, a San Francisco jury found DePape guilty of multiple charges including first-degree burglary, false imprisonment of an elder, threatening a family member of a public official, and aggravated kidnapping. During the state trial, DePape's public defender, Adam Lipson, admitted his client's guilt for three of the charges but contested the accusations of threatening a family member of a public official and aggravated kidnapping. These charges were introduced by prosecutors in late May as DePape's federal trial was concluding. Despite Lipson's arguments, the jury convicted DePape on all counts. DePape's federal conviction included charges of assaulting a federal official’s family member and attempting to kidnap a federal official. On May 28, he was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after a resentencing hearing prompted by judicial error. Following his imprisonment, DePape is likely to be deported to Canada. Lipson argued that the state trial represented double jeopardy, given that the criminal acts were connected to the same incident as the federal conviction. Although the charges were not identical, Lipson maintained that the cases were intrinsically linked. San Francisco Superior Court Judge Harry Dorfman agreed to an extent, dismissing state charges of attempted murder, elder abuse, and assault with a deadly weapon. This decision was upheld on appeal by another judge. During closing arguments, Lipson emphasized that prosecutors failed to prove DePape's intent to kidnap Paul Pelosi with the goal of obtaining money or something valuable, which is a critical element of the charge. Prosecutors, however, argued that the valuable item DePape sought was a video of Nancy Pelosi confessing to alleged crimes, which he intended to disseminate online. Assistant District Attorney Phoebe Maffei countered Lipson’s arguments by pointing out that DePape had told a detective and testified in federal court about his plan to create and distribute such a video. "There is inherent value in a video of the Speaker of the House confessing to crimes in her own home," Maffei stated. The attack on Paul Pelosi, captured on police body camera footage just days before the 2022 midterm elections, sent shockwaves through the political landscape. Paul Pelosi, 82 at the time, sustained two head injuries, including a skull fracture that required surgical repair with plates and screws. He also suffered injuries to his right arm and hand. Maffei described the attack as part of a meticulously planned "reign of terror" orchestrated by DePape. "David DePape broke into the home of an 82-year-old man while he slept, entered his bedroom, held him hostage with a hammer, threatened him, threatened his wife, and attempted to kill him," she said. DePape had admitted during his federal trial that he intended to hold Nancy Pelosi hostage, interrogate her on video, and "break her kneecaps" if she did not confess to what he believed were lies about the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential campaign. Lipson, in his closing arguments, portrayed DePape as a man who had become isolated and consumed by propaganda and conspiracy theories. This narrative was complicated by recent events involving DePape's former partner, Gypsy Taub, who was expelled from the public gallery and the second floor of the San Francisco courthouse for attempting to tamper with the jury. Taub had distributed materials promoting conspiracy theories outside the courtroom and in a nearby bathroom. Judge Dorfman accused Taub of attempting to corruptly influence jury members, leading to her removal from the court by bailiffs. Taub, a known activist in the Bay Area, was identified by DePape’s federal public defender as someone who had exposed DePape to extreme beliefs. DePape’s twin sister, Joanne Robinson, also wrote to the federal judge seeking leniency, describing how Taub had isolated DePape from his family and inflicted significant psychological damage on him. Credit: Politico 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Eight months into the ongoing conflict, Gaza's education system has been devastated, leaving countless students with shattered dreams and altered daily routines. The war has transformed schools into shelters, causing significant damage and necessitating extensive rebuilding efforts to make these institutions functional again. Karim al-Masri, an 18-year-old student, was supposed to start his final exams on Saturday morning, just weeks shy of graduating. Instead, he spent his morning filling bags of water to freeze into ice, which he then sold to support his family. "I should have been studying and preparing for my final exams," al-Masri lamented. "But, more than eight months into the war, I'm spending my days working to provide for my family to cope with the situation." Al-Masri is one of nearly 39,000 students in Gaza who were unable to take their high school final examinations scheduled to begin on Saturday across the Palestinian territories and in Jordan. According to the Palestinian Education Ministry, these students would not be able to graduate. The war has wreaked havoc on Gaza’s already struggling education system, which had faced several wars and escalations since 2008. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported that at least 625,000 children are missing out on education in Gaza, with schools shut since the war began in October, just over a month into the school year. More than 76 percent of schools in Gaza would require rebuilding or major rehabilitation to become functional after Israel’s prolonged offensive. The majority of these schools have been repurposed as shelters to house the many displaced families in Gaza, who are living in miserable conditions. Al-Masri had dreamed of studying information technology at the Islamic University of Gaza or the University College of Applied Sciences. Both institutions have been destroyed by Israeli bombardment. All of Gaza’s 12 universities have been severely damaged or destroyed by the fighting, according to the United Nations. Instead of pinning his hopes on returning to school and graduating, the war has shifted al-Masri's priorities. He is now focused on working to support his family. He often walks past his school in Deir al Balah in central Gaza, where "the classrooms have turned into shelters," and when he peeks inside, he is "filled with agony." Islam al-Najjar, another 18-year-old student, was also supposed to take her first final exam on Saturday. Her school in Deir al Balah, to which many Gazans have fled from Israel’s Rafah offensive, has also been turned into a shelter. "I can’t imagine going back to see my school, a place where we learn, turned into a shelter full of displaced people living in miserable conditions," al-Najjar expressed. She added, "When we do go back, we won’t be seeing all of the same faces," referring to her classmates, two teachers, and her principal who had been killed during the war. Despite the ongoing conflict, al-Najjar remains hopeful about the possibility of returning to school and graduating. She dreams of studying abroad and has set her sights on Harvard University or the University of Oxford to study business. "I was very excited for my final year of school and to begin a new chapter," said al-Najjar, the eldest in her family, who had been planning her graduation celebrations before the war started. "But of course, the war put a stop to everything." Reflecting on her dashed dreams, she pondered, "Why does the spring of our life coincide with the fall of our country? Is it our fault that we dared to dream?" The ongoing conflict has left a profound impact on Gaza’s students, forcing them to abandon their aspirations and adapt to a new reality marked by survival and loss. The educational infrastructure has been decimated, and the emotional scars run deep. Yet, amid the devastation, the resilience and hope of students like al-Masri and al-Najjar offer a glimmer of optimism for a future where their dreams might one day be realized. Related Topics: How can the war between Israel and Hamas ever end when so many schools in Gaza - run by a UN agency backed by our millions - teach children to hate Jews? UNRWA textbooks were pivotal in radicalizing generations of Gazans — watchdog Credit: New York Times 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Britain’s wealthiest family have been handed prison sentences for exploiting Indian staff at their Geneva mansion. The Hindujas, a family with an estimated fortune of £37 billion, faced charges that exposed a darker side of their opulent lifestyle. The Swiss court found Prakash Hinduja and his wife, Kamal, each guilty and sentenced them to four years and six months in prison. Their son, Ajay, and his wife, Namrata, received four-year terms. While the family was acquitted of human trafficking, they were convicted of other serious charges related to the exploitation of their domestic staff. The verdict marked a stunning blow to the prestigious family, known for their immense wealth and business empire. The case arose from the family’s practice of bringing servants from India to work in their Geneva residence. The accusations included allegations of passport confiscation and severe restrictions on the staff’s freedom once they arrived in Switzerland. Prosecutors argued that the Hindujas paid their employees meager wages and allowed them little liberty to leave the mansion. In response, the family denied these allegations, claiming that the prosecution aimed to tarnish their reputation. Despite reaching a confidential out-of-court settlement with the three employees who brought the accusations, the prosecution pursued the case due to the severity of the charges. Geneva prosecutor Yves Bertossa sought custodial sentences of five and a half years for Prakash and Kamal Hinduja, citing their exploitation of vulnerable employees to save money. Both Prakash, aged 78, and Kamal, aged 75, were absent from the trial, citing health issues. In his closing argument, Bertossa accused the Hindujas of exploiting the “asymmetrical situation” between powerful employers and vulnerable employees. He highlighted the paltry salaries paid to the household staff, which ranged between 220 and 400 Swiss francs (£195-£350) a month, significantly below the standard wages in Switzerland. “They’re profiting from the misery of the world,” Bertossa declared. Defense lawyers for the Hinduja family argued that the plaintiffs were provided ample benefits and were free to leave the villa. Nicolas Jeandin, one of the defense attorneys, contended that the employees were not mistreated slaves but rather individuals who were “grateful to the Hindujas for offering them a better life.” Robert Assael, another defense lawyer, insisted that no employee was cheated out of their salary, emphasizing that payments were made in addition to their cash salaries. Representing Ajay Hinduja, Yael Hayat criticized the prosecution’s indictment as excessive and argued that the trial should focus on justice rather than social justice. Similarly, Romain Jordan, representing Namrata Hinduja, claimed that the prosecutors aimed to make an example out of the family and failed to acknowledge additional payments made to the staff. The Hinduja Group, a global conglomerate with interests in oil and gas, banking, and healthcare, operates in 38 countries and employs approximately 200,000 people. This high-profile case, however, has cast a shadow over the family’s business empire, raising questions about the treatment of domestic staff by wealthy employers. The verdict has not only brought to light the exploitation faced by the staff at the Geneva mansion but also highlighted broader issues of labor rights and fair treatment of employees, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The case serves as a reminder that wealth and power come with significant responsibilities, and the abuse of such power can lead to serious legal and ethical consequences. Related Topic: UK's Richest Family Spent More on Dog Than Their Servant. Credit: The Guardian 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

As I conversed with NASA’s chief scientist about a potentially habitable planet 120 light-years from Earth, my mind wandered back to memories of my father and his telescope. The last time I used his telescope was in February 1986. We were standing in our driveway in Palos Verdes, a place far enough from the glare of downtown Los Angeles to see the night sky clearly. Halley’s Comet was approaching its perihelion at about 122,000 miles per hour, appearing as a small, silver-gray smudge in the sky. We had only a few hours to glimpse it before it disappeared for another 76 years. I was 13, and my father was 44. “The accident of the years of our births,” he mused quietly. My father had built the telescope when he was 15 in his parents’ apartment in Forest Hills, Queens. He took it with him to medical school in Syracuse, then to Boston, Pittsburgh, and eventually Southern California. He viewed space with the same awe and curiosity he had for mathematics, analytic philosophy, the Torah, or Mozart’s twentieth piano concerto. It was beautiful, complex, infinite, and irresistible to explore. Now, thanks to the James Webb Space Telescope, which NASA launched into space on Christmas 2021, we are on the verge of knowing a little more about our place in the universe. The telescope, orbiting the sun about a million miles from Earth, recently captured several images of K2-18b, an exoplanet located 120 light-years away. Importantly, K2-18b resides in the habitable zone around its star, a region where conditions might be just right for an Earth-like atmosphere and potentially life. Until the 1990s, humanity did not know exoplanets existed. Today, we know of over 5,000 in our galaxy alone, and astronomers estimate there may be as many as 40 billion in the habitable zones across the universe. “There might be simple life all throughout the galaxy,” said Jessie Christiansen, an astrophysicist at Caltech and chief scientist at the NASA Exoplanet Science Institute. She referred to microbes, bacteria, and single-celled organisms. Alexei Filippenko, an astronomer from UC Berkeley, echoed this sentiment in an email: “If there is life on K2-18b, it would demonstrate that life on Earth is not unique—a very important discovery.” He added, “Perhaps it would change the religious outlooks of some people, but not others. It depends on whether one subscribes to the belief that God made Earth unique in terms of life.” The big question, according to Christiansen, is whether there is intelligent life—organisms with brains or brain-like structures. Astronomers are currently analyzing the James Webb Space Telescope images, and in a few months, we will know whether dimethyl sulfide, a molecule associated with life, is present in K2-18b’s atmosphere. If it is, the likelihood of life on K2-18b increases significantly. Nikku Madhusudhan, the Cambridge astrophysicist who first viewed the images of K2-18b, described the experience as “surreal, overwhelming, and humbling.” He said, “You are literally the first person looking at this outside world. You are no longer one scientist but a representative of the planet seeking to find the truth about the universe.” Because light takes time to travel, when we look at distant objects, we are seeing them as they were in the past. Filippenko explained, “You see the sun not as it is now, but as it was about 8.3 minutes ago.” The further away an object is, the further back in time we see. This means that the images of K2-18b are snapshots of a past era, making our exploration of exoplanets a journey through time as much as it is through space. Imagining the inhabitants of K2-18b looking back at Earth, they would see our planet as it was 120 years ago—around 1904. This was decades before my parents were born, grew up, left New York, and created a life in California. It was a time when Halley’s Comet had already come and gone and would return again. My sister and I would traverse the continent and the world, enter a new century, and start our own families. My father’s life would slowly decline, culminating in his passing near the Pacific Ocean. Gazing at exoplanets is supposed to provoke thoughts about the nature of life, our place in the universe, and the origins of everything. Reflecting on K2-18b, I remembered my father narrating as I watched Halley’s Comet through his telescope. The comet, a smudge of ammonia, carbon dioxide, ice, and rock, was about to vanish for the rest of his life, and maybe mine. “I’ve known this was coming for most of my life,” he said, “but somehow there’s something shocking about it.” My father would have been thrilled at the prospect of life on another planet, pondering the shapes, lights, and ancient constellations slowly coming into focus. The piecing together of all these mysteries inevitably leads back to the greatest question: How did something come from nothing? For Jessie Christiansen, finding extraterrestrial life would be akin to a religious experience. “I have dreamed about it and thought about it,” she said, admitting, “I am scared that it’s true.” She pondered, “Is it more terrifying that we are alone, or that we aren’t alone?” This curiosity and wonder reminded me of my six-year-old son, Ivan, who dreams of being an astronaut. His fascination with space is a constant topic during bath time, story time, breakfast, and dinner. My father would have been pleased. Ivan frequently asks about the conditions on distant planets and whether there might be life in other solar systems. Recently, I told him about K2-18b, and we discussed the possibility of parallel amoebas in parallel oceans on a distant rock. He was fascinated, and as he sat in the bath, he wondered about life on Neptune or Uranus and if there are beings out there pondering who we are right now. In our quest to understand the universe, we are driven by the same curiosity that fueled my father’s love for space and the same wonder that inspires my son’s dreams. As we await more discoveries from the James Webb Space Telescope, we inch closer to unraveling the mysteries of existence, forever expanding our understanding of where we come from and who we are. Credit: The Free Press 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In the weeks leading up to the Republican National Convention, the Trump campaign has found itself grappling with an unexpected internal threat from within its own ranks. This issue emerged most prominently during a recent gathering of Arizona delegates in a Phoenix suburb. What was meant to be a routine meeting for delegates to familiarize themselves with their responsibilities instead became the setting for a clandestine plot aimed at disrupting Donald Trump’s nomination. At this meeting, a group of delegates identifying as staunch "America First" supporters proposed a secret plan to break free from their pledge to support Trump. Unlike previous attempts to thwart Trump by "Never Trumpers," this effort originated from the far-right faction within his base. According to people present at the meeting and others briefed on it, these delegates discussed using covert signals, such as wearing matching black jackets, to identify one another. The precise aim of this plot remains ambiguous. Some speculate it could be an effort to block a vice-presidential pick deemed undesirable by the far-right faction. Others suggest the goal might be to position former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn as a substitute nominee if Trump were to face incarceration. Among the far-right, there is a growing suspicion that Trump has surrounded himself with advisers loyal to the so-called "deep state," fueling these internal machinations. The Trump campaign, perceiving this scheme as an "existential threat," acted swiftly to replace the dissenting delegates. A campaign staffer involved in addressing the situation described it to some Republicans as the "only process that would prevent Trump from being the nominee." The urgency and seriousness with which the campaign addressed this issue underscore the potential impact such an internal revolt could have on the convention. This episode in Arizona has broader implications for the upcoming convention in Milwaukee, where around 5,000 delegates and alternates are expected to participate. Many of these delegates are influenced by the same falsehoods and baseless accusations that animate much of Trump’s supporter base. The incident has sparked memories of the 2016 Republican convention, which briefly descended into chaos during an attempt by Trump’s opponents to derail his nomination. Suspicions have also spread among Trump supporters that covert saboteurs might have infiltrated their ranks. At the Georgia GOP convention in May, for instance, a would-be delegate withdrew after being accused of lobbying for Dominion Voting Systems, a company frequently targeted by false claims of fraud in the 2020 election. Intra-party conflicts have become a significant issue within the Republican Party. Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy recently resigned, lamenting that "we have Republicans who would rather fight other Republicans than engage in the harder work of defeating incumbent Democrats by convincing swing voters to vote Republican." This sentiment highlights the internal struggles that have distracted the party from its broader electoral goals. The financial motivations behind these internal conflicts cannot be overlooked. Some Republicans involved in these discussions believe that certain activists profit from the turmoil surrounding election integrity claims. One Republican suggested that these activists "really don’t want us to win" and instead "make money when we lose." The specific plot in Arizona was led by Shelby Busch, chair of the state delegation and founder of the We the People AZ Alliance. This group has raised nearly $1 million and is closely aligned with Senate candidate Kari Lake, funded largely by entities linked to prominent election deniers like Flynn and former Overstock.com executive Patrick Byrne. Byrne recently suggested on social media that Trump’s advisers are deep-state operatives and that "his VP needs to be a General," tagging Flynn’s profile in the post. The June meeting in Arizona included a presentation by delegate Joe Neglia, detailing a maneuver to suspend the convention’s rules and take control of the proceedings from the floor. When the Trump campaign learned of this plan, they collaborated with local party officials to recruit new delegates to replace those involved in the plot. The campaign’s memo described the leaders of this group as being engaged in a "multi-state conspiracy to suspend the rules at the national convention." Despite the campaign’s efforts to replace the dissenting delegates, Busch’s group responded by accusing those challenging them of being part of an "anti-Trump establishment group." They argued that the challenge was an attempt to sabotage Trump from within his own campaign and the Republican National Committee. In a statement, Busch’s group claimed that the Arizona grassroots patriots overwhelmingly supported their delegation because of their unwavering support for Trump, even if he were to be incarcerated. Ultimately, an agreement was reached between Busch’s bloc and the Trump campaign. Neglia agreed to step aside, the other delegates could remain, and there would be no revolt on the convention floor. While this resolution defused the immediate threat, it left some volunteer replacements feeling jilted. These volunteers had stepped up to support the campaign, only to be cast aside after the agreement was reached. Campaign political director James Blair attempted to smooth things over by publicly thanking the replacements for their service and praising their loyalty to Trump. He emphasized that the convention should remain focused on celebrating Trump’s nomination, warning against any distractions that could arise from internal conflicts. "It’s not just a question of loyal Trump support, it’s willingness to not do anything that could distract from the historic nomination and celebration of President Trump, which is a four-day commercial," a campaign official said. In the end, the Arizona Republican Party chair had to step in to manage the internal discord among the delegation. "I’m closing the thread," the chair posted in a private chat, signaling the need to focus on unity and function as a team. Credit: Wasgington Post 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pro-Palestinian students sprayed red paint over Cambridge University's historic Senate House as a form of protest against the Israeli bombing of Gaza. The students, in collaboration with Palestine Action, targeted the 18th-century graduation hall, demanding that the University of Cambridge "divest from genocide." The protest occurred just a week before the Senate House was scheduled to host graduation ceremonies. Palestine Action tweeted about the incident, stating: "BREAKING: Cambridge Students, in collaboration with Palestine Action, spray historic hall red demanding the University of Cambridge divest from genocide. The action took place ahead of planned graduations at the University's Senate House." This is not the first disruption of graduation ceremonies due to protests. Last month, graduation events had to be relocated from the Senate House to a secret location following a similar protest against the war in Gaza. The Cambridge for Palestine group previously set up tents outside King's College and later moved to the lawn outside the Senate House as part of their demonstration. In related actions earlier this week, members of Palestine Action forced entry into the Instro Precision factory at Sandwich Discovery Park in Kent. Eight individuals were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and have since been bailed, with a police investigation ongoing. A spokesperson for Palestine Action stated, "Palestine Action's decommissioning of Elbit Systems' electro-optics weapons sights factory in Kent has left the Instro Precision site immobilized, unable to produce weapons parts for export to Israel." The protests at Cambridge are part of a broader wave of campus activism across the UK in solidarity with Gaza. At the beginning of May, students from Oxford and Cambridge set up encampments in front of their universities, demanding an end to the violence in Gaza and calling for various forms of institutional divestment and support for Gaza's education system. These sit-ins have been mirrored at other British universities including Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Sheffield, and Newcastle. At Oxford, students established a "liberated zone" outside the Pitts Rivers museum, listing six demands including boycotting Israeli actions, ceasing banking with Barclays, and helping to rebuild Gaza's education infrastructure. Similarly, Cambridge for Palestine has vowed not to leave their encampment until the university meets their four demands, which include disclosing financial ties with organizations they deem complicit and protecting at-risk students. Palestine Action group is very active on X with numerous posts on their continuing vandalism throughout the UK. Seven of their members were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary at a factory in Kent. Protest group Palestine Action said members had targeted the Instro Precision factory at Discovery Park, Sandwich. "A glimpse into how Palestine Action destroyed Kent's Israeli weapons factory. After seven actionists broke in on Monday morning and caused over £1million worth of damage, the site remains SHUT DOWN." Credit: Daily Mail 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) faces allegations of plagiarism following a detailed analysis of his 2019 Ed.D. dissertation. The Daily Wire's investigation uncovered multiple instances where Bowman’s work closely mirrored the writings of other academics without proper attribution. This revelation comes at a critical time as Bowman prepares for the Democratic primary for New York’s 16th Congressional District. Bowman’s dissertation, titled “Community Schools: The Perceptions and Practices that Foster Broad-Based Collaboration among Leaders within the Community School Ecosystem,” includes numerous passages that are nearly identical to previously published academic papers. For example, in one section, Bowman appears to replicate a summary by University of Delaware Professor Rosalie Rolón-Dow almost verbatim. Bowman writes, “The CRT movement drew heavily on the critical legal studies movement, radical feminism, and civil rights ideas to develop a framework that squarely challenged the racialized ways in which law affects people of color (Delgado & Stefancic, 2001; Parker, 2003; Rolon-Dow, 2005).” Comparatively, Rolón-Dow’s text states, “The movement drew heavily on the critical legal studies movement, radical feminism, and conventional civil rights ideas to develop a framework that more squarely challenged the racialized ways in which laws affect people of color (Delgado & Stefancic, 2001; Parker, 2003).” Despite including Rolón-Dow in his citation, Bowman did not use quotation marks where his text directly matches hers. In another instance, Bowman’s changes to Rolón-Dow’s work include minimal alterations, such as a typo and the substitution of "Latino" with "Latinx," while maintaining the rest of the original text. Bowman’s version reads, “Further, from the perspective of Puerto Rican girls in middle school, Rolon-Dow (2005) explored the intersection between race/ethnicity caring [sic] in the educational experiences of middle school Puerto Rican girls. Critical Race Theory and Latinx/Latina critical theory are used as data analysis frameworks because of their emphasis on the roles of race/ethnicity and racism in shaping the circumstances of individuals and institutions.” Rolón-Dow originally wrote, “In this article, the author explores the intersection between race/ethnicity and caring in the educational experiences of middle school Puerto Rican girls. Critical race theory and Latino/Latina critical theory are used as data analysis frameworks because of their emphasis on the roles of race/ethnicity and racism in shaping the circumstances of individuals and institutions.” Further instances of apparent plagiarism include passages lifted from works by Rene Antrop-Gonzalez and Anthony De Jesus, and a 2017 article by Tenah K.A. Hunt, Kristen S. Slack, and Lawrence M. Berger. Bowman’s dissertation closely mirrors their language without sufficient rephrasing or quotation marks, indicating a failure to properly distinguish his own writing from that of others. These allegations come after Bowman previously defended former Harvard University President Claudine Gay, who resigned amid her own plagiarism scandal. Bowman tweeted, “This isn’t about plagiarism or antisemitism. This is about racism and intimidation,” referring to Gay’s resignation. As Bowman faces off against Westchester County Executive George Latimer in the June 25 Democratic primary, a recent Emerson College/WPIX poll shows Bowman trailing Latimer by 17 points among likely primary voters. Bowman has not responded to requests for comment regarding the plagiarism allegations. The unfolding plagiarism scandal adds to the challenges Bowman faces in his bid for re-election, raising questions about academic integrity and the potential impact on his political career. Credit: New York Post 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

An off topic post has been removed, the topic here is: Scotland Fans Stir Controversy Mock Death of Late Queen

An extremely disrespectful troll post removed @Neeranam carry on like that and it will not only be posts removed. Additional history lesson posts removed

Questionable source and off topic web link removed. Contravening our Community Standards.

Unatributed trolling meme removed along with comment on moderation by usual suspect

A post contravening our community standards has been removed along with a comment on moderation @Neeranam. The topic here is: Al Jazeera’s Terrorist Ties and the Controversy Over Its Operations

A post contravening our community standards has been removed. The topic here is: Open Letter: They Turned into Monsters

New topic Al Jazeera’s Terrorist Ties and the Controversy Over Its Operations

The United States has announced a ban on the sale of antivirus software from the Russian company Kaspersky, citing concerns about its alleged connections to the Kremlin. According to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Moscow's influence over Kaspersky poses a significant risk to US infrastructure and services. The decision is based on fears that Russia has the "capacity and... intent to collect and weaponize the personal information of Americans." Raimondo emphasized the necessity of the ban, stating, "Kaspersky will generally no longer be able to, among other activities, sell its software within the United States or provide updates to software already in use." This restriction is part of a broader set of powers, originally created by the Trump administration, that allows the US to ban or restrict transactions between American firms and technology companies from countries considered "foreign adversaries" like Russia and China. The ban, which will take effect on September 29, 2024, includes prohibitions on software updates, resales, and licensing of Kaspersky products. New business transactions with Kaspersky will be restricted within 30 days of the announcement. Sellers and resellers found violating these restrictions will face fines imposed by the Commerce Department. Additionally, two Russian and one UK-based unit of Kaspersky will be listed for allegedly cooperating with Russian military intelligence. Kaspersky, which has a multinational presence with offices in 31 countries and serves more than 400 million users and 270,000 corporate clients worldwide, has denied any involvement in activities that threaten US security. The company announced its intention to pursue "all legally available options" to challenge the ban. The US government has scrutinized Kaspersky for several years. In 2017, the Department of Homeland Security banned Kaspersky's flagship antivirus product from federal networks, citing alleged ties to Russian intelligence. Despite these accusations, Kaspersky has maintained that it operates independently and does not engage in activities that compromise security. The exact number of Kaspersky customers in the US remains classified business data. However, a Commerce Department official informed Reuters that a "significant number" of customers would be affected by the ban, including state and local governments and companies involved in telecommunications, power, and healthcare sectors. This recent move by the US government highlights ongoing concerns about cybersecurity and the potential risks posed by foreign technology firms. The decision to ban Kaspersky reflects broader geopolitical tensions and the increasing measures taken by nations to safeguard their digital infrastructure from perceived threats. Credit: BBC 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe