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Kennedy Family Condemns RFK Jr.'s Trump Endorsement as a Betrayal of Core Values
The party of JFK vanished long ago, and bears no resemblance to it now, IMO. Kennedy was an inspirational leader that had a vision of a better future for Americans and the world, but all today's Dem leaders have is hate Trump, IMO. IMO if JFK were alive now he'd leave the Dems and become an independent. -
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Monday 26 August 2024
Pattaya Officials Continue Crackdown on Vagrants to Protect City Image By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya City officials have continued their efforts to apprehend vagrants who negatively impact the city’s image as a tourist destination, following the directives of Pattaya City Mayor, Mr. Poramase Ngampichet. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336454-pattaya-officials-continue-crackdown-on-vagrants-to-protect-city-image/ -
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Pattaya Officials Continue Crackdown on Vagrants to Protect City Image
Pattaya City officials have continued their efforts to apprehend vagrants who negatively impact the city’s image as a tourist destination, following the directives of Pattaya City Mayor, Mr. Poramase Ngampichet. In the morning on August 24th, 2024, officials from the city’s Special Affairs Department received a report from concerned citizens about two vagrants soliciting money from passersby in front of a convenience store on Third Road in North Pattaya. The officials immediately went to the scene to meet the two. Upon arrival, officials found an unidentified homeless woman, approximately 40-50 years old, along with her 8-year-old son. The woman claimed that she had previously been married to a Scottish man who sent her monthly financial support. However, after losing her ATM card, she no longer had access to the funds to support herself and her son. The authorities arranged for her and her son to be processed with the local homeless center according to the regulations. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe -
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Starmer: Conditions in Britain will Deteriorate Before They Improve
Perhaps if the UK didn't give loadsacash to Ukraine, they might not have to increase taxes. -
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Monday 26 August 2024
Police arrest contract killer after 33 year manhunt in Lopburi by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Lopburi province yesterday apprehended a contract killer who escaped a 33 year prison sentence after a failed assassination attempt at a hotel. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336453-police-arrest-contract-killer-after-33-year-manhunt-in-lopburi/ -
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Police arrest contract killer after 33 year manhunt in Lopburi
Police in Lopburi province yesterday apprehended a contract killer who escaped a 33 year prison sentence after a failed assassination attempt at a hotel. Chief of Police Supakorn Chantabut, along with Deputy Chief Siwawong Damrongsatchasi, alongside other officers successfully arrested the 56 year old contract killer, Paisan, yesterday, August 24. The arrest took place in Chaibadan district, Lopburi province. The case traces back to November 20, 1989, when an assailant used a firearm to shoot Somjai, a hotel manager, and her brother-in-law Sawiang at a hotel in Trat province. Both victims sustained injuries but the perpetrator managed to escape. Initially, it was suspected that the attack stemmed from a land sale dispute, leading to the hiring of a hitman to kill Somjai. However, the assassination attempt was unsuccessful, leading to his conviction. Paisan consistently denied the charges in all three levels of court: the trial court, the appellate court, and the Supreme Court. Despite his denials, he was convicted and sentenced to 33 years in prison. Paisan fled before he could be imprisoned, leading to a prolonged manhunt that culminated in his capture yesterday, reported KhaoSod. The police team meticulously tracked Paisan’s movements, leading them to the remote hill where he was hiding. The arrest marks a significant accomplishment for the local police, who dedicated considerable resources and effort to resolve this decades-old case. In other news, a 16 year old boy was shot and killed by a 14 year old in Lopburi after the younger boy became jealous over romantic attention towards his girlfriend. The incident occurred yesterday. Police received a report at 7.05pm about a shooting at a three-way junction in Ban Nong Krathum, Maha Phot subdistrict, Sa Bot district, Lopburi province. Upon arrival, authorities discovered the body of a 16 year old boy lying on the roadside with a gunshot wound that had passed through his chest. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe -
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Did Ann Coulter Really Do That?!?
All it says on the linked article is that she said "“Talk about weird …” Without more that is meaningless. I seem to remember a certain demographic attacked Trump's young son. Apparently it depends on one's politics as to what is acceptable. In any event, killing unborn children is a pretty awful thing to do and the Dems seem to want that for every female in the US. Methinks this is just another political left faux labelling of an opponent -
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Kennedy Family Condemns RFK Jr.'s Trump Endorsement as a Betrayal of Core Values
The Kennedy family, long-standing pillars of the Democratic Party, faced a profound rupture on Friday as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., once a prominent independent presidential candidate, publicly endorsed former President Donald Trump. This decision, which Kennedy announced while suspending his campaign, was met with sharp criticism from his siblings, who called it a "betrayal of the values that our father and our family hold most dear." Kerry Kennedy, one of RFK Jr.'s siblings and the president of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization, issued a strong rebuke alongside four of her siblings—Courtney Kennedy, Chris Kennedy, Rory Kennedy, and former Maryland Lt. Gov. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend. In their joint statement, they expressed deep dismay at their brother's decision to align himself with Trump. "We want an America filled with hope and bound together by a shared vision of a brighter future," Kerry Kennedy wrote. "We believe in Harris and Walz. Our brother Bobby’s decision to endorse Trump today is a betrayal of the values that our father and our family hold most dear." The statement concluded with a somber reflection on the situation: "It is a sad ending to a sad story." The timing of RFK Jr.'s announcement was not unexpected. For much of the week, speculation had been mounting that he would endorse Trump. On Wednesday, Kennedy had signaled that he would be making a significant announcement about the future of his candidacy. True to his word, he used Friday's address to make his endorsement official while also declaring the suspension of his independent campaign. Kennedy revealed that he would be removing his name from the ballot in key swing states such as Pennsylvania and Arizona, though it would remain on the ballot in states firmly aligned with either the Democratic or Republican parties. During his address, Kennedy spent much of his time criticizing the Democratic Party and the media, accusing them of denying him a fair chance in the presidential race. "In my heart, I no longer believe that I have a realistic path to electoral victory in the face of this relentless, systematic censorship and media control," he stated at the press conference. "So I cannot in good conscience ask my staff and volunteers to keep working their long hours, or ask my donor to keep giving when I cannot honestly tell them that I have a real path to the White House." Kennedy's decision to withdraw from swing states like Arizona and Pennsylvania came swiftly after his Wednesday announcement. Sources close to Kennedy have indicated that he is in negotiations with the Trump campaign for a potential role in a second Trump administration. This move further fueled the ire of his siblings, who have been critical of RFK Jr.'s political ambitions from the outset. The Kennedy family has been synonymous with the Democratic Party since John F. Kennedy's presidency, and RFK Jr.'s independent bid was a departure from this legacy. The family had previously dismissed his candidacy, expressing concern over his divergence from their shared values. Last year, when RFK Jr. launched his presidential campaign, several family members publicly denounced his candidacy, particularly in light of his controversial anti-vaccination stance during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision, or judgment. Today’s announcement is deeply saddening for us. We denounce his candidacy and believe it to be perilous for our country," some of Kennedy’s siblings wrote at the time. The fallout from RFK Jr.'s latest decision was swift, with other members of the Kennedy family also expressing their disappointment. Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, took to social media to voice his dismay. "Never been less surprised in my life. Been saying it for over a year — RFK Jr. is for sale, works for Trump. Bedfellows and loving it," Schlossberg wrote on the platform X, formerly known as Twitter. He went on to praise Vice President Kamala Harris, stating, "Kamala Harris is for the people — the easiest decision of all time just got easier." The Kennedy family's reaction to RFK Jr.'s endorsement of Trump underscores the deep divisions that have emerged within the family as a result of his political choices. For a family that has long championed progressive values and Democratic ideals, RFK Jr.'s decision to side with Trump represents a stark and painful divergence from the path laid out by their forebears. As the Kennedy siblings lamented in their statement, it is indeed a sad ending to what has become a deeply troubled chapter in the family's storied history. Credit: Hill 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe -
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Starmer: Conditions in Britain will Deteriorate Before They Improve
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will deliver a stark warning this week, asserting that conditions in Britain will deteriorate before they improve. In his address, Starmer will claim that there is "rot deep in the heart" of the nation, a situation that demands significant and potentially painful reforms. This message will be interpreted by many as a precursor to imminent tax increases and spending cuts, with Starmer positioning himself as the leader who inherited not only an "economic black hole" but also a "societal black hole." Speaking from Germany, where he will meet with Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Starmer will address the working people of Britain with a candid message: he must make "unpopular decisions" to steer the country towards recovery. "I will be honest about the choices we face and how tough this will be," he will state. "Frankly – things will get worse before they get better." Starmer's rhetoric underscores the gravity of the situation. "When there is rot deep in the heart of a structure, you can’t just cover it up. You can’t tinker with it or rely on quick fixes. You have to overhaul the entire thing. Tackle it at the root. Even if it’s harder work and takes more time," he will explain. The Prime Minister's remarks reflect his belief that without addressing these fundamental issues, the nation risks seeing the same problems reemerge, potentially in a more severe form. "The rot returns. In all the same places. And it spreads. Worse than before. You know that – and I know that. That’s why this project has always been about fixing the foundations of this country." Throughout his campaign, Starmer has repeatedly promised not to increase taxes on "working people," assuring voters that a Labour government would not raise VAT, income tax, or National Insurance. However, his reluctance to rule out other tax hikes has led to speculation that increases in capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and business taxes may be on the horizon. Last month, Chancellor Rachel Reeves conceded that tax hikes would be necessary in the upcoming Budget on October 30, a point that Starmer will emphasize in his speech. In his first comments on the financial situation since Reeves claimed that the Conservatives had left a £22 billion gap in public finances, Starmer will go further, warning that the crisis is not just economic but also societal. "If we don’t take tough action across the board, we won’t be able to fix the foundations of the country like we need," he will argue. The Prime Minister is prepared to make difficult decisions, even if they prove unpopular. "I won’t shy away from making unpopular decisions now if it’s the right thing for the country in the long term. That’s what a Government of service means," he will declare. The Prime Minister's speech follows a statement by Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, suggesting that an increase in employers' National Insurance contributions might be on the table. Jones recently softened the Chancellor's earlier commitment to not increase National Insurance, indicating that the promise to freeze "employee National Insurance" would still be honored. In his upcoming remarks, Starmer is expected to defend his government's decision to grant inflation-busting pay raises to public sector workers, a move that has drawn criticism from some quarters. Earlier this month, Reeves announced a 5.5 percent pay increase for millions of workers, including teachers and nurses, with prison service workers and senior NHS managers receiving a 5 percent boost. Despite this, the government has faced backlash, especially after some train drivers, who were offered a 14 percent pay rise over three years, announced a new strike over a separate dispute shortly after. Starmer will argue that these pay rises are necessary to maintain the functioning of essential services. "I defy anyone to tell me that you can grow an economy when people can’t get to work – because the transport system is broken. Or can’t return to work – because they’re stuck on an NHS waiting list," he will say. He will highlight his government's achievements, claiming, "We’ve done more in seven weeks than the last government did in seven years. And these are just the first steps towards the change people voted for. The change I’m determined to deliver." However, Starmer's government has also faced criticism for its decision to cut the universal winter fuel allowance, a move that has particularly angered pensioners. The Prime Minister's stance on this issue has been challenged by Richard Fuller, the Tory Party chairman, who accused Starmer of prioritizing union interests over vulnerable pensioners. "Just two months in and Keir Starmer has taken winter fuel payments off 10 million pensioners and showered billions of taxpayers’ money on his union paymasters," Fuller said. He further criticized the Labour government for "squandering money" and fabricating a financial crisis to justify tax increases, leaving pensioners "literally in the cold." Starmer's speech will also address the summer riots that swept across the country, forcing him to cancel his holiday. He will argue that the violence was fueled by "populism" and the exploitation of "cracks in our society." Drawing a parallel with the 2011 London riots, during which he served as Director of Public Prosecutions, Starmer will contend that the nation is now in a worse state than it was back then. He will express regret over the decision to release prisoners early, a move announced last month, but will argue that it was necessary to free up prison space to manage the riots effectively. Reflecting on the situation, Starmer will lament, "When I think back to that time, I see just how far we’ve fallen. Because responding to those riots was hard, but dealing with the riots this summer was much harder." He will describe the lack of sufficient prison space as "about as fundamental a failure as you can get." The Prime Minister will accuse the rioters of exploiting a broken system, saying, "Those people throwing rocks, torching cars, making threats – they didn’t just know the system was broken. They were betting on it. They were gaming it. They saw the cracks in our society after 14 years of populism and failure – and they exploited them. That’s what we have inherited." As Starmer prepares to deliver this sobering address, the challenges facing his government are becoming increasingly clear. With tough decisions on the horizon, the Prime Minister is set to argue that only by addressing the deep-rooted issues at the heart of Britain can the country begin to rebuild and move forward. His message to the nation will be one of honesty and resolve: the road ahead will be difficult, but it is the only path to lasting recovery. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe -
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Netanyahu’s Resurgence: How Israel's Leader Turned the Tide Amid Crisis and Controversy
Against all odds, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has managed to stage a political comeback that few would have predicted in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attack, the deadliest tragedy in Israel's history. Despite the initial backlash against his handling of the crisis, Netanyahu is now leading in the polls as Israel’s preferred leader, an extraordinary shift that has baffled both critics and analysts alike. Known as a master of political survival, Netanyahu has repeatedly defied predictions of his political demise, winning elections five times even when it seemed his career was on the brink. Analysts initially speculated that the October 7 massacre, which claimed the lives of 1,200 Israelis, might finally mark the end of his reign. Yet, Netanyahu’s strategy of waiting out the storm appears to be paying off, with polls showing a significant resurgence in his and his party’s popularity. In August, a Maariv poll indicated that Netanyahu’s Likud party had regained its position as the largest party in the Knesset, securing 22 seats, while the National Unity party, led by his main rival Benny Gantz, dropped to 20 seats. More strikingly, 48 percent of voters expressed a preference for Netanyahu as prime minister, compared to 42 percent for Gantz. This shift in public opinion is remarkable, considering the months of protests, international criticism, and even dissent from within Israel’s own military and political elite that have marred Netanyahu’s tenure since the October attack. For many Israelis, Netanyahu’s resilience in the face of intense pressure—both from within the country and from key allies like the United States—has reinforced his image as a leader who can stand firm during crises. Pinhas Amar, a 67-year-old from Hadera, voiced his support for Netanyahu, citing his “resistance to pressure” and the way he handled the hostage situation, despite accusations that Netanyahu had not done enough to secure their release. Amar sees Netanyahu as “running a marathon,” a leader who is in it for the long haul. Shulamit Perez, from Or Akiva, echoes this sentiment, describing Netanyahu as the “smartest” and most “responsible” politician in Israel. Like many of Netanyahu’s supporters, she believes that the left-wing opposition has been unfairly targeting him for years, using October 7 as their latest pretext. Perez does not believe Netanyahu was adequately warned by Israel’s security agencies about the Hamas threat, further exonerating him in her eyes. Aviv Bushinsky, a former adviser and chief of staff to Netanyahu, attributes the prime minister’s renewed popularity to his unwavering message on the necessity of completely eliminating Hamas. According to Bushinsky, Netanyahu’s focus on national security and his resistance to international pressure, including from the US, resonates deeply with the Israeli public. “Israelis want to see leadership and strength. And Netanyahu has shown both,” Bushinsky explains. This strategy of positioning himself as a defender of Israel against both external and internal adversaries is a familiar one for Netanyahu. Throughout his career, he has often portrayed himself as the only leader capable of standing up to Israel’s enemies, even at the risk of straining relationships with allies. While his critics argue that this approach jeopardizes Israel’s long-term security, particularly its relationship with the US, Netanyahu’s core supporters continue to reward him for it at the polls. Benny Gantz’s failure to provide a clear and compelling alternative has also played into Netanyahu’s hands. According to Bushinsky, Gantz’s decision to leave the government without offering a “precise and clear” reason was a pivotal moment that led to his decline in public support. Meanwhile, Miki Zohar, Israel’s culture minister and one of Netanyahu’s closest confidants, believes that many Israelis are beginning to appreciate the prime minister’s long-term strategy concerning threats like Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas. Zohar argues that Netanyahu’s patience and consistency in his messaging have been key to his political survival. Political strategist Nadav Shtrauchler, who has worked closely with Netanyahu, describes the prime minister’s current position as the “second chapter” of his post-October 7 survival strategy. Shtrauchler predicts that Netanyahu will use the upcoming months, particularly the period leading up to the US election and the return of the Knesset from recess, to solidify his position. This could involve making a significant military move on Israel’s northern border or securing a ceasefire with Hamas, actions that could further bolster his standing among voters. However, despite his recent gains, Shtrauchler cautions that Netanyahu is unlikely to regain the level of support he once enjoyed, noting that the prime minister’s party will “never go back” to holding 32 seats in the Knesset. The current coalition faces numerous challenges, including the contentious issue of drafting ultra-Orthodox youth into the army, a topic that has previously toppled Netanyahu’s governments. Shtrauchler anticipates that Israelis should prepare for elections in 2025, as the coalition’s stability remains precarious. Yet, even as Netanyahu appears to be regaining his footing, his leadership continues to provoke fierce opposition, particularly from the families of hostages still held by Hamas. Sharone Lifschitz, whose 83-year-old father, Oded Lifschitz, remains captive in Gaza, has been vocal in her criticism of Netanyahu, accusing him of delaying a ceasefire deal that could have secured the hostages’ release. Lifschitz blames Netanyahu for using the hostages as “human shields” to further his political agenda, a sentiment that reflects the deep divisions within Israeli society over his leadership. Ultimately, Netanyahu’s ability to navigate the aftermath of the October 7 attack and maintain his grip on power underscores his enduring political acumen. He has managed to survive the most significant crisis in Israel’s history by doing what he does best: stalling for time, playing the political game to his advantage, and maintaining a consistent message on security. However, his continued success will depend on whether he can address the hostages' issue and other critical challenges facing his government. Failure to do so could prove unforgivable to many voters, potentially undoing the gains he has so carefully rebuilt. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe -
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Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Arrested in France Over App’s Content Moderation
Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of the popular messaging app Telegram, has been arrested by French authorities at Le Bourget Airport, located just north of Paris. The 39-year-old tech entrepreneur was detained by French police after his private jet landed at the airport, following a flight from Azerbaijan. The arrest has sparked international attention, particularly due to the high-profile nature of the case and Durov's significant influence in the tech world. French media outlets reported that Durov’s arrest was conducted under a warrant related to alleged offenses connected to his messaging platform, Telegram. According to officials, Durov was apprehended due to ongoing concerns regarding the app's lack of content moderation, which has allegedly allowed it to be used for illicit activities, including money laundering, drug trafficking, and the distribution of pedophilic content. These allegations have put Telegram under intense scrutiny from various governments and regulatory bodies around the world. The arrest was carried out by officers from France’s anti-fraud office, which operates under the jurisdiction of French customs. The operation took place on Saturday evening, immediately after Durov arrived at Le Bourget Airport. French television channel BFMTV provided further details, indicating that the warrant had been issued in France specifically due to the platform's failure to adequately police illegal activities occurring on Telegram. In response to the arrest, Russia's embassy in France has begun taking "immediate steps" to clarify the situation and secure more information about Durov's detention. This was reported by Russia's TASS state news agency, which emphasized the embassy's concern and proactive approach to addressing the matter. Telegram, which was founded by Durov in 2013, has grown to become one of the most popular messaging apps globally, particularly in Russia, Ukraine, and other former Soviet Union states. The platform, known for its strong encryption and privacy features, has often been at the center of controversy due to its perceived leniency towards content that other platforms might moderate or ban. The app's history with the Russian government has been particularly turbulent. In 2018, Telegram was banned in Russia after Durov refused to comply with demands from the Russian authorities to hand over user data. The ban, however, was reversed in 2021, allowing Telegram to continue operating in the country. Despite this, Durov has remained a vocal critic of government censorship and has consistently positioned Telegram as a bastion of free speech, even as it has faced criticism for the way it handles harmful or illegal content. Durov's rise to prominence began even before Telegram, with the founding of VKontakte (VK), a social media platform that became hugely popular in Russia. However, Durov left Russia in 2014 after refusing to comply with government orders to shut down opposition groups on VK. Following this, he sold his stake in VK and shifted his focus entirely to Telegram, which has since risen to rank among the major social media platforms, alongside giants like Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, and WeChat. The arrest of Pavel Durov at Le Bourget Airport marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over the responsibilities of social media platforms in moderating content and preventing illegal activities. It also highlights the complex relationship between tech entrepreneurs like Durov and the governments that seek to regulate their platforms. As the situation unfolds, the tech world will be watching closely to see how this high-stakes legal battle plays out, and what it might mean for the future of Telegram and similar platforms that prioritize user privacy and freedom of expression. Credit: CNN 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe -
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Kamala Harris Sees Significant Polling Surge During Democratic National Convention
Vice President Kamala Harris has seen a notable increase in her polling numbers against former President Donald Trump among registered voters, according to fresh polling data released during the Democratic National Convention (DNC). The survey, conducted by the Angus Reid Institute between August 19 and August 23, coincides with the Democratic Party's formal nomination of Harris as its presidential candidate. The national poll illustrates a widening generational and demographic divide in voter preferences. Harris enjoys a strong lead among younger voters, particularly those aged 18 to 34, with 59 percent supporting Harris compared to 30 percent for Trump. This lead is even more pronounced among Black voters, where Harris has 67 percent support compared to Trump’s 16 percent, and among Hispanic voters, where she leads 57 percent to 33 percent. However, Trump continues to resonate with older and white voters, holding the preference of 49 percent of voters over 54 years old, compared to 40 percent for Harris. Among white voters, Trump leads Harris 51 percent to 39 percent. The Harris campaign's adept use of social media has been credited with generating what analysts have described as an "extended honeymoon period" for the candidate. Memes and viral content have helped to energize younger voters, though this strategy presents the challenge of converting online enthusiasm into actual votes in November. When reached for comment, both the Harris and Trump campaigns were contacted via email by Newsweek on Saturday afternoon. While youth voter turnout in 2020 reached a record high, it still only slightly exceeded 50 percent, considerably lower than the participation rates among older demographics. The Angus Reid survey also sheds light on the challenges Harris might face as she strives to become the first woman elected to the presidency. A striking 74 percent of respondents believe that it is more difficult for a woman to be elected to high political office, even though 59 percent of those surveyed said there is "no difference" between genders in terms of competently performing the job once in office. The poll also explored voters' emotional responses to the candidates. Notably, 71 percent of Harris supporters expressed that her potential victory makes them feel "hopeful," while 63 percent of Trump supporters expressed the same sentiment about a possible second term for the former president. The prospect of the opposing candidate winning, however, elicited worry and fear from both camps, with Trump supporters showing slightly higher levels of concern (57 percent worry, 38 percent fear) compared to Harris supporters (47 percent worry, 45 percent fear). When asked to describe the candidates, voters most frequently characterized Harris as "dishonest" (36 percent), "strong" (36 percent), "corrupt" (32 percent), "inspiring" (31 percent), and "strategic" (29 percent). Trump, on the other hand, was predominantly described as "arrogant" (62 percent), a "bully" (48 percent), "corrupt" (45 percent), "dishonest" (45 percent), and "strong" (38 percent). The Angus Reid survey identified the cost of living as the most pressing issue facing the United States, with 58 percent of voters citing it as their primary concern. This was followed by broader economic concerns (28 percent), border security (27 percent), healthcare (25 percent), and reproductive rights (23 percent). In addition to the Angus Reid survey, a national poll from Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) and Braun Research shows Harris leading Trump by a 7-point margin. The poll, which surveyed 801 registered voters between August 17 and 20, found that 50 percent of voters support Harris, while 43 percent support Trump. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points. The poll also revealed a deep partisan divide: 95 percent of Democrats, 38 percent of independents, and 2 percent of Republicans back Harris, while 33 percent of independents, 95 percent of Republicans, and 3 percent of Democrats support Trump. In contrast to the FDU poll, a Rasmussen Reports poll released Thursday found Trump leading Harris by 3 percentage points, 49 percent to 46 percent. This survey, which included 1,893 likely voters, was conducted on August 15 and between August 18 and 21, and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points. Most national aggregate polls currently place Harris in the lead, with RealClearPolitics showing her ahead by 1.5 percentage points, 48.4 percent to Trump's 46.9 percent, and The New York Times aggregate showing Harris with a 2-percentage point advantage, 49 percent to 47 percent. Other aggregates, such as FiveThirtyEight, show larger margins, with Harris leading by 3.6 percentage points, 47.2 percent to 43.6 percent. Nate Silver's Silver Bulletin also reports Harris leading, with 48 percent compared to Trump's 43.7 percent. The race has been further complicated by the recent withdrawal of independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who had been drawing about 5 percent in national polls. Kennedy officially dropped out on Friday and endorsed Trump, adding another layer of complexity to the already intense competition. As the campaign moves into its post-convention phase, both candidates face significant challenges. For Harris, the task will be to maintain her momentum and convert her current polling advantage into Electoral College votes. Trump, on the other hand, must work to broaden his appeal beyond his base and address the concerns of swing voters who may be apprehensive about a second Trump term. With just over two months remaining until Election Day, the race remains highly competitive as both campaigns zero in on the crucial swing states. While Harris appears to have benefited from a convention bounce, the true test will come in the weeks ahead as voters engage more deeply with the candidates and their platforms. As is often the case in American presidential politics, this race is likely to be closely contested right up until November. Credit: Newsweek 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe -
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Elon Musk's SpaceX to Return Nasa's Stranded Astronauts Next Year
Two NASA astronauts, initially slated for a routine return to Earth, are now set to journey home aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft early next year. This decision comes after a series of malfunctions plagued the Boeing Starliner, the spacecraft that was supposed to bring them back. Commander Barry “Butch” Wilmore and pilot Sunita “Suni” Williams, both seasoned former military test pilots, found themselves in an unexpected predicament after becoming the first crew to ride the Starliner to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 5. Their mission, originally planned as an eight-day test, has now turned into an extended stay due to the technical challenges Starliner faced during its journey. The issues with Starliner began almost immediately after launch. Within the first 24 hours of the flight, the propulsion system of the spacecraft experienced several glitches that led to months of delays. The situation worsened as five of the 28 thrusters failed, and the spacecraft also suffered from helium leaks, a critical issue since helium is used to pressurize the thrusters. These malfunctions raised significant concerns about the spacecraft's safety and reliability, prompting NASA to reconsider its original plan. In a highly unusual move for NASA, the two astronauts are now scheduled to return to Earth in February 2025 aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon. This spacecraft is set to launch next month as part of a routine astronaut rotation mission, and NASA has deemed it a safer option for bringing Wilmore and Williams back home. The decision to switch to SpaceX, Boeing's main competitor in spaceflight, is one of NASA’s most significant and consequential in recent years. The implications for Boeing are profound. The company had pinned its hopes on the Starliner mission as a way to redeem the program after years of development issues and over $1.6 billion in budget overruns since 2016. Boeing, already dealing with quality issues in the production of its commercial airplanes, now faces additional challenges in its space division. The Crew Dragon spacecraft that will bring the astronauts home will have two of its four seats reserved for Wilmore and Williams. The Starliner, on the other hand, will attempt to undock from the ISS without a crew and return to Earth as originally intended. This uncrewed return will be a crucial test for the spacecraft, which has struggled to prove its reliability. Boeing's efforts to develop the Starliner have been fraught with difficulties. The capsule, designed to compete with SpaceX's Crew Dragon, has had a troubled history. In 2019, an uncrewed test flight to the ISS ended in failure, although a 2022 reattempt was more successful, albeit not without its own issues, including further thruster problems. The June mission, which carried its first crew, was supposed to pave the way for NASA to certify Starliner for regular flights. However, the recent setbacks have thrown the capsule's certification process into disarray. Since Starliner docked with the ISS in June, Boeing has been working tirelessly to determine the causes of the thruster failures and helium leaks. The company has conducted extensive tests and simulations on Earth in an attempt to convince NASA that Starliner is still a viable option for human spaceflight. Despite these efforts, the results have raised more questions than answers, and NASA's confidence in the spacecraft's ability to safely return its crew to Earth has been shaken. NASA's decision to opt for the SpaceX Crew Dragon instead of the Starliner is a significant blow to Boeing. It also adds to the growing list of crises facing Kelly Ortberg, Boeing's newly appointed CEO, who took on the role earlier this month. Ortberg's primary goal is to rebuild Boeing’s reputation, which has been severely tarnished by recent events, including a dramatic incident in January when a door panel blew off a 737 MAX passenger jet in midair. The path forward for Starliner remains uncertain. While the spacecraft will still attempt an uncrewed return to Earth, the future of its certification for crewed missions is now in doubt. Boeing will need to address the engineering challenges that have plagued the program and restore confidence in its ability to safely carry astronauts. Meanwhile, NASA's decision to rely on SpaceX for the safe return of its astronauts highlights the growing importance of the Crew Dragon spacecraft in the agency's human spaceflight program. As the two astronauts prepare for their return to Earth, their journey underscores the inherent risks and challenges of space exploration. The lessons learned from the Starliner mission will undoubtedly shape the future of NASA's partnerships with private companies and the ongoing efforts to push the boundaries of human spaceflight. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe -
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Islamic State Claims Responsibility for Devastating Knife Attack at German Festival
The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for a brutal knife attack that occurred at a festival in Solingen, Germany, leaving three people dead and eight others injured. The attack, which unfolded amidst the celebrations of the "Festival of Diversity," has plunged the city into mourning and raised alarms about the persistent threat of extremist violence in Europe. Multiple knives were discovered near the scene, suggesting a premeditated and meticulously planned attack. Police Chief Markus Röhrl confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with authorities working tirelessly to uncover the full extent of the plot and any potential accomplices. The Solingen community has been left reeling from the tragedy. Mayor Tim Kurzbach expressed the collective grief and shock felt by the city's residents in a heartfelt message on Facebook. "This evening, we in Solingen are all in shock. We all wanted to celebrate our city’s anniversary together and now have dead and wounded to lament," he wrote. "It breaks my heart that an attack on our city happened." In response to the attack, organizers of the "Festival of Diversity" canceled the remaining events out of respect for the victims and their families. This horrifying incident in Solingen occurred less than a day before another attack in southern France, where an individual set two cars on fire outside a synagogue, an act that has been widely condemned as antisemitic. The proximity of these two events has heightened concerns about the spread of extremist ideologies and the growing threat they pose to public safety across Europe. As investigations continue, the people of Solingen and the wider world are left to grapple with the devastating impact of this senseless act of violence. The attack serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in combating extremism and the importance of vigilance in the face of such threats. UPDATE: A 26-year-old man has given himself up and confessed to a mass knife attack at a street festival in Germany, police said on Sunday. "The man we’ve really been looking for the whole day has just been taken into custody," Herbert Reul, the interior minister of North Rhine-Westphalia state, told ARD public TV late on Saturday. Germany's Bild and Spiegel news websites reported that the suspect surrendered himself in dirty blood-stained clothes. Police described him as Syrian, and German media reported that he arrived in Germany in December 2022, after leaving the war-torn country. Bild reported that special task force (SEK) officers stormed a refugee centre the suspect was associated with, detaining another person there. Credit: NYP | Sky News | BBC 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe -
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Greta Thunberg Joins Activists in Blockade of Norway's Largest Gas Plant
A group of climate activists, led by the prominent Swedish environmentalist Greta Thunberg, took part in a daring protest on Saturday at the Karsto gas and oil processing plant in southwest Norway. The demonstration, organized by members of Extinction Rebellion, aimed to disrupt the operations of the plant, which is one of Europe's largest facilities of its kind. Extinction Rebellion Norway made an announcement on social media, revealing that the protest involved eight kayaks and three motorboats entering a restricted security zone around the Karsto processing plant. The intention was to "prevent the normal operation of tankers" and raise awareness about the environmental impact of continued fossil fuel extraction. On land, other activists, including Thunberg, stood resolutely at the facility's gates, attempting to block access and send a strong message against the ongoing reliance on fossil fuels. Thunberg, known for her uncompromising stance on climate change, was quoted in Extinction Rebellion's post, emphasizing the urgency of their actions. "We cannot stand idly by as the fossil fuel industry robs people of their lives and destabilizes our life support systems," she declared, reinforcing her commitment to the fight against the fossil fuel industry and its effects on the planet. The Karsto plant, operated by Norway's state-controlled energy company Equinor, plays a crucial role in the European energy market. According to Equinor, the facility processes oil and gas from around 30 different fields, making it a significant hub for the region's energy supply. Despite the activists' efforts to disrupt operations, a spokeswoman for Equinor confirmed that the plant continued to function normally during the protest. "A group of activists have gathered outside parts of the facility, but at this stage, the plant is operating as normal," she stated. This protest is part of a broader movement aimed at holding governments and corporations accountable for their role in the climate crisis. Thunberg, who has inspired millions worldwide through her activism, continues to be a leading voice in this struggle. Her participation in such direct actions highlights the increasing frustration among climate activists with the slow pace of change and the continued investment in fossil fuel infrastructure. As the global climate crisis intensifies, protests like the one at Karsto serve as a reminder of the growing resistance to fossil fuel dependency. Activists are calling for an urgent transition to renewable energy sources, warning that the continued exploitation of oil and gas reserves poses an existential threat to humanity and the planet. The actions of Thunberg and her fellow protesters at the Karsto plant underscore the deepening divide between the fossil fuel industry's interests and the demands of the climate justice movement. As more people join the call for a sustainable future, the pressure on governments and corporations to act decisively on climate change will only continue to grow. Credit: Barrons 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe
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