The United States reportedly intends to target Iranian assets outside Iran, and will also initiate cyber-attacks, after the deaths of three American soldiers. Meanwhile, Houthi terrorists in Yemen announced that they fired several missiles at a U.S. warship in the Red Sea.
In other news, the Russian parliament approved a law to confiscate the assets of people who criticize the military.
To see the headlines and the articles, click “Continue reading” below.
Thanks to Daniel Greenfield, Dean, DV, Insubria, LP, McN, MM, Reader from Chicago, SS, and all the other tipsters who sent these in.
Notice to tipsters: Please don’t submit extensive excerpts from articles that have been posted behind a subscription firewall, or are otherwise under copyright protection.
Caveat: Articles in the news feed are posted “as is”. Gates of Vienna cannot vouch for the authenticity or accuracy of the contents of any individual item posted here. I check each entry to make sure it is relatively interesting, not patently offensive, and at least superficially plausible. The link to the original is included with each item’s title. Further research and verification are left to the reader.
Number of Unemployed Rises in Germany in January
In January, the number of unemployed individuals in Germany increased to 2.805 million, which is 169,000 more than in December 2023 and 189,000 more than in January of the previous year, as reported by the Federal Employment Agency. The unemployment rate rose by 0.4 points to 6.4 percent. Adjusting for seasonal effects, the number of unemployed decreased by 2,000 in the monthly comparison, according to the Federal Employment Agency, as reported by Spiegel.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
The family of an elderly man — who has been assaulted multiple times on the crime-riddled streets of San Francisco — has decided America is “too dangerous” for their loved one and is sending him back to his home country of China after decades of living in the States.
“It’s too dangerous here,” Jing Liao told the San Francisco Standard on Monday after he and his family booked his father, Rongxin Liao, 87, a one-way ticket back to his home city of Guangzhou, Guangdong.
“Public safety situation in San Francisco has become worse and worse,” Liao added, revealing his father had been brutally attacked multiple times while in San Francisco.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
A US Court Has Annulled Elon Musk’s $56 Billion Compensation Deal With Tesla
A Delaware judge has invalidated the $55.8 billion pay deal granted to Elon Musk by Tesla in 2018. The lawsuit challenging the massive compensation was filed by a shareholder who argued it was an excessive payment, as reported by BBC.
The pay deal, the largest in U.S. corporate history, played a significant role in making Elon Musk the world’s wealthiest individual. As of November 2023, estimates by Bloomberg and Forbes placed his net worth between $198 billion and $220 billion.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Bitchute Launches Paychute, Creator Monetization Features
BitChute, a free speech video platform, has taken a leap forward with the inauguration of its novel monetization platform, PayChute.
The breakthrough PayChute system adds a dynamic array of mechanisms and features, aimed at helping content creators tap into their earning ability while forging stronger connections with their audience. The monetization model hinges on subscriptions, paving the way for creators to deliver exclusive material tailored for their dedicated fan base. The platform is designed to give full financial autonomy to the creators who can freely set the subscription tiers and rates.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
A top official in the Biden administration confirmed to undercover investigative journalist James O’Keefe that President Biden is in mental decline and revealed that the White House wants to replace Kamala Harris as vice president.
Charlie Kraiger, who is a top official in the cybersecurity policy analyst and foreign affairs executive office of the president, disclosed the groundbreaking revelations to James O’Keefe of OMG Media during an undercover operation published on Wednesday.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
As part of the impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden, House committees have revealed in a letter sent Wednesday that the Biden White House has refused to hand over all drafts of Biden’s December 2015 speech in Ukraine during which he called for the firing of Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin.
He made the speech before the Ukrainian Rada and later bragged about having demanded that then Ukrainian President Poroshenko fire prosecutor Viktor Shokin who was apparently digging into corruption at Burisma where Hunter Biden sat on the board with an income of $80,000 per month.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
CBS News Helped Chinese Communist Party With ‘Propaganda Trip,’ ‘Puff Piece,’ Sen. Rubio Says
Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., accused CBS News of pushing Chinese Communist Party “propaganda” Wednesday in a strongly worded letter to the network’s top executive on the heels of a “puff piece” about Xinjiang.
CBS News reporter Elizabeth Palmer told viewers during the Jan. 7 edition of “CBS Sunday Morning” that Xinjiang is “being marketed” by the Chinese government for its beauty and newfound business opportunities. The CBS News reporter then took viewers on a tour that she noted was fully arranged by the Chinese Information Office.
“This tour was arranged by the Chinese Information Office. It rented the buses, it set the itinerary, and it also provided the translators and the staff that has accompanied us every step of the way. They showed us everything from agricultural machinery to ancient ruins, to e-sales of local plums on TikTok,” Palmer said.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Doctors have released a damning new report on America’s “failures” during the COVID pandemic, revealing that keeping schools closed for longer than necessary and forcing people to mask outside led the country to experience “eye-wateringly high” death rates compared to other first-world nations.
Duke University professor Gavin Yamey and Drexel University professor Ana Roux said the pandemic “failures began at the top” with poor communication from the federal government, which demonstrated a “surprising inability to generate reliable information, communicate it in a timely and consistent manner and translate it into sound policy.”
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Disney Lawsuit Against DeSantis Dismissed by Judge as Company Vows Fight ‘Will Not End Here’
A federal judge is dismissing Disney’s (DIS) free speech lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis — a big win for the politician amid his ongoing political feud with the media giant.
In a court filing obtained by Yahoo Finance, US District Judge Allen Winsor, who was appointed to the federal bench by former President Donald Trump in 2019, granted a motion to dismiss the First Amendment case. The judge determined that Disney’s position “fails on the merits” and ultimately “lacked standing,” or the right to sue.
To note, a separate state lawsuit is still pending in Orlando.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
East Palestine Resident Says He Sees ‘Right Through’ Upcoming Biden Visit: ‘It’s an Election Year’
An East Palestine, Ohio resident spoke out on the news that President Biden will visit his community one year after a toxic train derailment devastated the city, suggesting the commander-in-chief is only making the trip to help his 2024 campaign.
DJ Yokley warned that Americans have seen “right through” Biden’s ploy during “Fox & Friends,” given that 2024 is a presidential election year. His visit comes as the community continues to reel from the catastrophe that happened one year ago.
“The American people have awakened to realize that our the leader of our country did not show up to the greatest catastrophe of 2023,” Yokley said on Wednesday.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Florida Removes Sociology From Basic Education Courses, Deeming it Too “Woke”
In a recent development, the state of Florida, led by Governor Ron DeSantis, has decided to remove sociology as a fundamental education course from its university campuses. The decision, met with opposition from educators and students of the subject, is part of a broader shift in the state’s education policies.
Instead of sociology, Florida will introduce an American history course focusing on the period before 1877. Rector Ray Rodrigues clarified that the new course aims to provide a historically accurate account of America’s founding, the impact of slavery, the Civil War, and the era of reconstruction, The Tampa Times reports.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Washington Democrats are proposing legislation to ban local municipalities from installing “hostile architecture” that prevents the homeless from camping in public spaces.
According to Senate Bill 6231, hostile architecture features “elements designed to restrict the use of public spaces by individuals experiencing homelessness.”
Items such as large rocks, gravel, even fencing that are erected “to prevent people from sitting or lying at street” level would be prohibited by the bill, sponsored by Democratic State Sen. Liz Lovelett.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
House Committee Votes to Impeach Biden DHS SEC Mayorkas
Late Tuesday night, the House Homeland Security Committee approved two articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
The party line vote triggers a floor vote in the House as early as next week to impeach Biden’s controversial official.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Oregon University Drops Failing Grades for Students, Citing ‘GPA Fixation’
An Oregon university announced they will abandon failing letter grades, citing a “GPA fixation” that negatively impacts students.
Western Oregon University issued a news release earlier this month that revealed the school would be replacing “D-” and “F” grades with “no credit” to discourage undergrads from dropping out.
Students who do not earn a passing grade in their course will be required to repeat the course and demonstrate proficiency.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Poll: Trump Gaining on Biden in Liberal Colorado
A December poll conducted by the University of Colorado’s American Politics Research Lab in collaboration with YouGov indicates that in a hypothetical general election in Colorado, President Joe Biden leads former President Donald Trump by seven points.
The survey shows 47 percent of Colorado adults favoring Biden, 40 percent supporting Trump, and 13 percent planning to vote for someone else.
While Biden maintains a lead, the margin of his victory in Colorado has significantly decreased compared to the 2020 election, where he won by 13.5 percentage points.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Ted Cruz Grills Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg Over Spread of Child Sexual Abuse Material on Instagram
During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on efforts to stop sexual abuse content on social media, Senator Ted Cruz grilled Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg over reports on the spread of such content on Meta platform Instagram.
Cruz noted a June 2023 report from the Wall Street Journal in which the outlet revealed that Instagram’s algorithm system was “actively connecting pedophiles to accounts that were advertising the sale of child sexual abuse material,” using accounts that look to be run by underage children and code words and emojis to advertise illicit materials.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
The Global Disinformation Index (GDI), a US government-funded pro-censorship organization, has come under fire for lacking transparency, ironically the same issue it labels non-mainstream websites for.
Despite hypocritically casting aspersions on sites that reject the mainstream narrative on many issues, the GDI, as per a report by the Washington Examiner, exhibits a conspicuous absence of this very transparency in its operations.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Trump Nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize
Former U.S. President Trump has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize for his role in implementing the Abraham Accords in the Middle East.
The nomination was announced by Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), who highlighted Trump’s efforts in brokering historic peace agreements between Israel and Arab states. The Abraham Accords, initiated on September 15, 2020, aimed to establish normal diplomatic relations between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, with subsequent additions of other Arab and Muslim states, The Hill reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
U.S. News & World Report is seeking to get subpoenas filed by the San Francisco city attorney tossed out of court as part of the news outlet’s First Amendment lawsuit against the official.
A filing to the US District Court for the Northern District of California requests a preliminary injunction to block the subpoenas filed against U.S. News earlier this month by San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu, who is listed as the defendant.
“Plaintiff U.S. News & World Report, L.P. (‘U.S. News’) respectfully seeks a preliminary injunction to prevent Defendant David Chiu, the City Attorney for the City and County of San Francisco (the ‘City Attorney’) from using his governmental authority to perpetrate viewpoint discrimination in violation of the First Amendment,” the filing read Wednesday.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
A Virginia man was sentenced to 100 years in prison for murdering a co-worker who stole his lunch from their work refrigerator at Target.
Bazn Berhe, 25, received the 100-year sentence with 30 years suspended, meaning he will serve 70 years of active incarceration, the Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney announced Tuesday, according to Fox 5 DC.
Berhe was charged with first-degree murder after beating and stabbing his coworker Hernan Leiva, 58, to death in the parking lot of the Target in Bailey’s Crossroads on the morning of April 17, 2021. Berhe was angry that Leiva, who was a janitor at Target, had taken his lunch from the office fridge three days earlier, according to prosecutors.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
As we previously reported as something to look out for in 2024, US lawmakers are intent on pushing online ID, age verification, and causing an end to online anonymity — despite constitutional concerns.
And during a hearing today, tech CEOs supported proposals that would greatly expand the requirements for online ID verification and erode the ability to use the internet without connecting your online activity to your identity.
The proposals are being pushed in the name of protecting children online but would impact anyone who doesn’t want to tie all of their online speech and activity to their real ID — over surveillance, censorship, or whistleblowing concerns.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
When Gavin Newsom Saw Brazen Target Shoplifting, an Employee Blamed Him
California Gov. Gavin Newsom spilled Wednesday that he’d witnessed Target shoplifting with his own eyes when checking out.
But when Newsom asked a Target worker to stop the shoplifter, the worker blamed the governor without realizing at first that the governor himself was standing right in front of her.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Anti-Corruption Research Reveals 25% of MEPs Compromised
Investigative journalists, including Transparency International and Follow the Money, have revealed that almost 25% of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have been involved in a “scandal” or have broken the law.
Out of 704 MEPs scrutinized, 163 faced accusations of “transgressive behavior, corruption, fraud, or theft” in 253 incidents.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
The controversy surrounding the alleged “remigration meeting” in Potsdam has boosted the popularity of Identitarian Movement leader Martin Sellner’s upcoming book, “Remigration: A Proposal.”
Sellner’s book is now ranked third among the best-selling German-language books on Amazon. The media attention generated by the “Correctiv” revelations about alleged deportation plans for German citizens has contributed to the increased interest in Sellner and his book, Junge Freiheit reported.
Sellner expresses gratitude to “Correctiv” for unintentionally promoting his ideas in the German debate.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Austrian Identitarian Activist Martin Sellner Defies Alleged German Entry Ban
In a dramatic turn of events, Martin Sellner, known for his association with the Identitarian Movement, managed to enter Germany on Monday evening, challenging the widely publicized entry ban against him.
Despite being temporarily detained during a border check at the Passau border crossing, federal police ultimately allowed him to proceed after a thorough search, which even involved scrutinizing his toothbrush, as claimed by the Austrian activist.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Author for German Globalist-Backed State Media Outlet Attacked AfD MP Beatrix Von Storch
The globalist propaganda media outlet Correctiv faces growing scrutiny over its coverage of the “secret meeting” in Potsdam.
Recently, deputy editor-in-chief Anette Dowideit denied the use of the term “deportation,” but Correctiv’s “fact-checkers” quietly removed the word from their website. Their questionable independence, given nearly 600,000 euros in state funds, raises concerns.
Adding to the controversy, Correctiv employs Jean Peters, an author with a history of attacking AfD politician Beatrix von Storch, Apollo News reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Barometer Shows 75% of French Citizens Find Taxes Too High, 67% Critical of Use
French citizens severely criticize their taxes, deeming them too high and misused, according to a barometer published. 75% of respondents believe that taxes are excessive and 67% express reservations about how they are utilized, according to Le Figaro.
The term “ras-le-bol fiscal,” introduced into public debate over 10 years ago by a socialist Minister of Finance, remains relevant, according to the latest barometer of fiscal levies published by an entity of the Court of Auditors, currently chaired by former Minister Pierre Moscovici. Despite the fiscal pressure reaching a historic high of 45.4% of GDP in 2022, the French unanimously feel there are too many taxes.
Interestingly, the French are less critical of their personal tax situation with only 63% feeling they pay too much in taxes. Satisfaction is higher among modest households, who may perceive the overall tax burden as high but believe their personal taxes are fair.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Belgian Farmers Extend Protests for 4 Days Amid Economic Struggles
Continuing their quest for concessions to improve their economic prospects, Belgian farmers have extended their protests to four days, blocking additional transport arteries and seeking to disrupt trade at major ports. The demonstrations, part of a broader wave of farming protests across the European Union, involved several hundred tractors causing traffic jams nationwide, as reported by AP News.
The repercussions of these protests have affected hundreds of thousands of Belgians, leading to disruptions in daily routines, difficulties commuting to work and the cancellation of medical appointments.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Brexit Four Years Later: Financial Sector’s Evolution Examined in New Report
As the UK marks the fourth anniversary of its departure from the European Union, a recent report by asset finance broker Anglo Scottish Finance delves into the impact on the financial services sector, Euronews writes.
Contrary to early predictions, the sector which accounts for 12% of the UK’s GDP, has not experienced the drastic decline feared during the Brexit process. However, challenges persist in international trade relationships, particularly with the EU.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Cease Verbal Violence Against Us Say Italy’s Jews
Stop giving credence to Hamas propaganda says Di Segni
Noemi Di Segni, the president of the union of Italian Jewish communities (UCEI), on Sunday called for an end to the “verbal violence” directed against the nation’s Jews since the start of the war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.
“Cease the fire of words against us is what we say to those who continue to accuse Israel of war crimes and genocide, with slogans based on nationality and faith, giving credence only to Hamas propaganda and giving new life to prejudices that we had hoped were extinct,” Di Segni said.
She appealed to “to all political sides, to those who teach at universities and in schools, to cease verbal violence, which is an assist to terrorism and the squadrismo of (left-wing) social centres and neo-fascists, in the name of solidarity with a people and a land they know nothing about”.
A petition calling on Cagliari University to end its relations of cooperation with Israeli institutions, meanwhile, has been signed by around 1,000 students.
The document will be discussed on 30 January in the university’s Academic Senate.
| — Hat tip: Insubria | [Return to headlines] |
Czech Republic Ranked 41st in the Global Corruption Perception Index
The Czech Republic secured the 41st position in the global Corruption Perceptions Index compiled by the non-governmental organization Transparency International in 2023. Over the past twelve months, the country’s position remained unchanged. The results of the latest research were published on Tuesday, January 30.
A total of 180 countries worldwide are represented in the index. They are ranked on a scale from 0 to 100 points, where zero denotes a highly corrupt state and one hundred represents a complete absence of corruption. The index reflects the perception of corruption levels in the public sector by entrepreneurs, business circles and experts.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Dutch Farmer Joins French Protests Against EU Rules, Highlighting Financial Struggles
A Dutch farmer named Herman Piet is participating in farmer protests in France and expressing his dissatisfaction with the situation, Nieuw Rechts writes. Tens of thousands of French farmers are protesting this week against new European regulations, with support from farmers in other European countries, including the Netherlands.
Herman Piet explains on “Goedemorgen Nederland” that farmers are angry due to significantly low incomes and substantial financial difficulties.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
EU Leaders Propose Annual Debates on a €50 Billion Aid Package for Ukraine
European Union leaders will suggest incorporating the idea of holding annual discussions on the planned €50 billion aid package to Ukraine into the EU summit resolution to secure Hungary’s support for approving the allocation of funds, according to a draft summit conclusion cited by Reuters.
In the latest version of the summit conclusion dated February 1, seen by the agency, EU leaders state that they could conduct yearly debates on how EU funds are spent in Ukraine based on reports from the European Commission. While this wouldn’t grant Hungary the right to veto the allocation of funds, it would allow Hungary to express its concerns, the agency clarified.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
On Tuesday, Marine Le Pen delivered a robust critique in response to Prime Minister Gabriel Attal’s general policy declaration before the National Assembly.
Describing the speech as contradictory and blending elements from both the right and the left, she accused the government of accommodating the worst aspects of both political spectrums, the French press reports.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
The expression is, “you can’t make that up” — to signal the level of the absurdity of a situation.
Meanwhile, groups calling themselves “fact checkers” and those bankrolling them keep making things up. And becoming used to it aside, their work still feels as if — “you can’t make that up.”
When names like the Omidyar Network, George Soros’ Open Society Foundations, and Meta start cropping up in the same sentence, you start believing anything could come out of an “alliance” of the sort.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
The Soros-backed, globalist propaganda network “Correctiv,” which claims to operate “independently from political influences,” faces contradictions as it is revealed that its managing director, Jeannette Gusko, worked for Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research.
“Correctiv” has been receiving German tax money, including around 266,000 euros from the same ministry that Gusko previously worked for. The platform’s claim of being politically independent is further questioned as Gusko has ties to the “Centre for Feminist Foreign Policy,” funded by the Foreign Office, Junge Freiheit reports.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Germany: Soros-Backed Propaganda News Network Correctiv Claims Farmers Are ‘Right-Wing Extremists’
The Soros-backed propaganda news network Correctiv, in a recent fact-checking endeavor, has put forth unfounded accusations of right-wing extremism against the ongoing farmers’ protests.
The article delves into various aspects, painting a picture of extremism associated with the demonstrations. According to the platform, even “false allegations and agitation” have emerged from the inner circle of the organizers.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Growing skepticism surrounds the revelations put forth by the “Correctiv” network, raising questions about the objectivity of the self-proclaimed fact-checkers.
Anette Dowideit, the deputy editor-in-chief of Correctiv, faced criticism for lying when she falsely claimed in a press club that the state-sponsored network had never mentioned “deportations.”
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Hungarian Think Tank Chief: United, Right-Wing Forces Are Unstoppable
The Center for Fundamental Rights in Budapest hosted a roundtable discussion with Spanish right-wing Vox party politicians, focusing on the alignment between Spain and Hungary.
Miklos Szantho, the head of the Center, emphasized the power of unity among right-wing forces, stating that together they are unstoppable. The discussion, titled “The Right Way Forward: The future of Spain, Hungary and Europe,” featured Juan Garcia-Gallardo, vice-president of the Regional Council of Castile and Leon, who highlighted the need for conservatives to unite against the globalist Left, the Hungarian press reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Hungarian State Media Expresses Solidarity With Counterparts in Polish Media
The heads of Hungary’s public media, Daniel Papp and Anita Altorjai, expressed solidarity with independent Polish public media in a letter to European Broadcasting Union (EBU) leaders.
They voiced deep concerns about ongoing political interference in Poland’s independent public media, stating that the Polish government’s actions violate democratic principles. The letter calls on the EBU to address the issue, defend the independence of public media, and ensure adherence to EBU standards, the Hungarian press reports.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Iceland is Building Defense in Case of Increased Volcanic Activity in the Future
In response to heightened volcanic activity near Reykjavik, dormant for almost 800 years, Iceland is undertaking extensive efforts to shield a crucial power plant and residences from potential lava flows. Six volcanic systems beneath the Reykjanes peninsula are anticipated to remain active for up to three centuries, posing a threat to the 30,000 residents in the area. The capital has experienced five eruptions since 2021, Reuters wrotes.
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A special working group in Finland has proposed changes to the conscription system to increase the participation of women in the national defense system. This was announced by the Minister of Defense, Antti Haikkainen.
The minister noted that the goal of the conscription system reform is to enhance the involvement of women in defense. He added that in the spring, changes to reservists and civilian service will also be considered.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Italy: Rome Theatre ‘Scandal That He Hasn’t Got PD Card’ — Meloni
Days when party affiliation counted are over, only merit counts
Premier Giorgia Meloni denied the appointment of the Teatro di Roma’s new chief Luca De Fusco being part of the Right’s alleged obsession with taking over top cultural places as alleged by Democratic Party (PD) chief Elly Schlein, saying that the only scandal for the Left is “that he hasn’t got a PD membership card”.
“A person was appointed, I didn’t even know: I learnt about it from the outcry of the Left, a person who, as far as I know, has an excellent curriculum in terms of culture and competence, has no party membership card, and what is the scandal? That he does not have a PD card”, she said on a Berlusconi TV channel.
And she added: “warning to sailors: the world in which for public appointments the PD card makes the score is over: people who have merit go there regardless of the card they have decided to sign if they have one”.
The Left has alleged Meloni is carrying out a takeover of top cultural appointments after several left-leaning figures left State broadcaster Rai after the rightwing government came into power in October 2022.
| — Hat tip: Insubria | [Return to headlines] |
Italy: Salvini Blames Von Der Leyen for Farmer Protests
Farmers’ problem is with current European Commission — deputy PM
Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini on Wednesday blamed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for the tractor road-block protests being staged this week by farmers in many parts of Europe, including Italy.
“The (farmers in the) tractors on the roads all over Europe have a problem with the current European Commission,” Salvini told reporters at the European Parliament in Brussels.
“The von der Leyen Commission is disastrous in this regard, in relation to labour and rights.
“In Italy we are working on the areas of responsibility of national governments.
“Most of their issues are with the crazy, pseudo-green European policies that regard farmers, fishers, truck drivers.
“It is clear that this Europe that has put ideology ahead of labour.
“The Italian government is trying to do everything to find extra resources to fix the European disasters.
“In recent years Europe has been a disaster, a disaster for savers, for homeowners, for motorists, for farmers, for truck drivers and for workers”.
When asked about the prospect of von der Leyen serving a second term at the helm of the EU executive, Salvini replied “I personally wouldn’t vote for it”.
Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida, meanwhile, on Wednesday met representatives of the ‘tractor movement’ protesting outside the Fieragricola fair in Verona.
“The meeting went very well,” Lollobrigida said.
| — Hat tip: Insubria | [Return to headlines] |
Italy: ‘Armocromia’ and ‘Underdog’ Among Treccani’s Words for 2023
Mattarella personality of the year in special edition of annual
‘Armocromia’, or colour analysis, ‘underdog’, ‘queer family’ and ‘eco-taleban’ are just some of the terms chosen by Italy’s prestigious Treccani Encyclopaedia for the section ‘Words of the Year’ in a special 2023 edition of its Book of the Year published on Monday.
The book, edited by journalist and essayist Marcello Sorgi, also indicates President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella as ‘personality of the year’.
The Treccani Book of the Year carefully chronicles the 365 days of 2023, with articles and analysis by prestigious writers, special features on the most salient events, and an annex on the Words of the Year with the main neologisms selected by the Italian Language Observatory.
The term ‘Armocromia’ came to the fore in April when the then newly elected secretary of the centre-left opposition Democratic Party (PD) Elly Schlein said in an interview to Vogue Italia that she took advice from an ‘armocromista’ (colour analyst) when choosing her clothes.
The term ‘underdog’ went mainstream in October 2022, when Premier Giorgia Meloni used it to describe herself in her first keynote speech to parliament.
“I represent what the English would call the underdog,” she told the Lower House, pointing out that she had risen from humble beginnings to become Italy’s first woman premier and would beat the odds again in achieving all her policy goals.
‘Queer family’ is a term that was used by the late intellectual and writer Michela Murgia to describe her unconventional family set-up.
‘Eco-taleban’ is a term used in some right-wing circles to discredit climate activists including those engaging in acts of civil disobedience.
| — Hat tip: Insubria | [Return to headlines] |
Italy: Charity Transparency Bill OK’d by Cabinet
Sets sanctions and fines for influencers after Ferragni probe
A bill mandating greater transparency in charity initiatives after influencer Chiara Ferragni was probed for fraud in relation to several alleged charity products she endorsed was approved by the Italian cabinet on Thursday, setting hefty fines and other sanctions for influencers.
The antitrust authority would be in charge of levying the fines.
According to sources, the bill outlines an obligation to indicate on the products the purpose of the proceeds and the recipient of the charity, the amount or share intended for that purpose, and sanctions from 5,000 to 50,000 euro, with the possibility of suspending the activity for one year in the case of repeated violations.
Premier Giorgia Meloni said Monday the government would frame the new charity transparency law in light of Ferragni’s alleged fraud over a supposedly charity pandoro Christmas cake, Easter eggs and a girls’ doll she endorsed while allegedly pocketing large sums of money.
Ferragni, half of Italy’s premier (left-leaning) celebrity couple with rapper Fedez, denies wrongdoing.
| — Hat tip: Insubria | [Return to headlines] |
London ULEZ Fines: French Judge’s Decision Over ‘Data Breach’ Due Soon
Lawyers for some 100 France-based drivers who were sent heavy fines for entering Ulez and Lez low-emissions zones in London are hoping for action from the French public prosecutor over accusations that their data was accessed illicitly.
France’s official data protection agency Cnil is also looking into the subject and says the same is under way in some neighbouring countries.
Mystery remains over how debt agency got driver details
Lawyers from Woog & associe’s in Paris submitted complaints on behalf of drivers with French plates issued fines by debt collection agency EPC on behalf of Transport for London (TfL).
They related to driving in the London zones without pre-registering on a website and/or in vehicles not meeting low-emissions requirements.
The drivers say the registration rule was insufficiently publicised.
There is also mystery over how EPC obtained their details as, since Brexit, there is no driver data-sharing agreement between the UK and France or the EU.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Over a Third of Spaniards Never Read Books, Despite Pleasure Reading Increase
More than a third of Spaniards never engage in reading a book, as revealed by the Reading Habits Barometer presented at the National Library, El Debate reports.
While overall reading rates remain stable, there is a slight decrease in the percentage of people reading for pleasure in their free time, dropping from 64.8% to 64.1% in the last year. Despite this decline, there is a positive increase of five points in pleasure reading over the past eleven years, reaching 64.1%.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
The meeting between Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski and his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock covered topics such as Polish-German relations, the war in Ukraine, and the Middle East.
Discussions also focused on revitalizing trilateral cooperation within the Weimar Triangle, involving Poland, Germany, and France. Both ministers acknowledged the need for improved relations, emphasizing the exploration of common ground for joint initiatives, Polish media reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Spanish Farmers Prepare to Join Europe-Wide Protests
Spanish farmers are rallying against perceived challenges from national and EU policies, joining a broader European trend of agricultural protests.
Asaja, the largest farmers’ union in Spain, is coordinating local and national protests and collaborating with Copa-Cogeca to plan a demonstration in either Brussels or Strasbourg, involving farmers from across the EU.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Survey: Nearly 40% of French Blame EU for Farmers’ Crisis
According to a recent survey conducted by the CSA institute for CNEWS, Europe 1, and the JDD, 39% of French respondents attribute the farmers’ crisis to the European Union.
Big brands are seen as responsible by 32%, while 23% blame the government. Additionally, 6% believe the farmers themselves are responsible for the discontent. Men (41%) and those aged 50 to 64 (45%) are more likely to hold Europe accountable, the French press reports.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Survey: 39% of Germans Do Not Feel Safe; 89% Identify Islamism as the Greatest Threat
The Allensbach Institute’s security report reveals a significant decline in Germans’ sense of security, with only 61% feeling safe in the country.
Concerns about migration, clans, and Islamists contribute to this decline. Notably, 86% identify Islamist groups as the greatest threat, followed by clans and extended Arab families at 81%, Junge Freiheit reports.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
UK: Nine Injured in London ‘Corrosive Substance’ Attack Including Children, Police Officers
Nine people including two children were injured in a “horrific incident” in London on Wednesday evening, with several of those hurt having rushed to the aid of the original victims, police say.
An investigation is underway after a “suspected corrosive substance” was thrown just yards from Clapham Common, an upmarket London neighborhood in Lambeth, injuring several people. A woman and two children were taken to hospital for treatment, police said.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
A data scientist has made a U-turn on her beliefs about climate change, while not a denier, she feels warnings of flood, famine and deaths are overblown and may overshadow our progress.
| — Hat tip: SS | [Return to headlines] |
UK: Teacher Who Showed Class Image of Mohammed Still in Hiding Three Years Later
Three years after sparking Muslim protests after showing his class a caricature of Mohammed at the Batley Grammar School, a religious studies teacher is still in hiding with his family for fear of violent reprisals from the Islamic community in Britain.
In March of 2021, a religious studies teacher in a small town in West Yorkshire sparked weeks of protests from the local Islamic community after showing his class a caricature of Mohammed from the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo during a lesson on freedom of expression.
The teacher was suspended from his position at Batley Grammar School and was later forced into hiding after a local Islamic group shared his identity on the internet while claiming that he had committed an act of “terrorism” by “insulting Islam”.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Unpopular Globalist Chancellor Olaf Scholz Calls on Germans to Fight Against AfD
Germany’s unpopular globalist Chancellor Olaf Scholz has urged citizens to actively counteract extreme right-wing movements and the AfD, emphasizing the need to engage in dialogue and competition against the party.
In an interview with RBB Inforadio, Scholz expressed concern about the AfD’s goals, revealed after an alleged secret meeting in Potsdam, stating that they pose a threat to national unity. He called for a united response from the Democrats to address these challenges, Junge Freiheit reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Vox Leader Abascal Slams Spain’s Lying Mainstream Media at Party Congress
Santiago Abascal, re-elected as the president of VOX in the recent General Assembly in Madrid, vehemently addressed what he perceives as media misinformation against his political party.
Abascal asserted that attempts to undermine VOX’s influence would be futile, emphasizing that media outlets often ignore VOX-related news and interviews, suppressing their perspectives. He questioned the credibility of reports discussing alleged internal divisions within VOX, dismissing them as fabrications without any basis.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
L’ubos Blaha, the parliamentary vice-president of Slovakia’s Smer—SD party, has responded to a Financial Times article that exposed Brussels’ alleged plan against Hungary, as claimed by Hungarian PM Viktor Orban’s policy chief.
Defending Hungary, Blaha questioned the authority of Brussels technocrats to formulate a plan to harm Hungary’s economy. Press reports indicate elements in the plan that could endanger the Hungarian currency and undermine investor confidence, risking economic growth, Magyar Nemzet reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
3 U.S. Soldiers Died Because Biden Won’t Stand Up to Iran
Iran’s terror militias launched a wave of rocket attacks against American soldiers in Iraq and Syria under Biden. There were dozens of these attacks last year alone.
In the spring of 2023, Scott Patrick Dubis, a 52-year-old military contractor who had worked on U.S. military bases in Afghanistan, Kuwait and Qatar, was killed by an Iranian backed attack.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin responded by promising that, “as President Biden has made clear, we will take all necessary measures to defend our people and will always respond at a time and place of our choosing. No group will strike our troops with impunity.”
But Iran and its Jihadi proxy militias could and did go on attacking our troops with impunity.
We launched a few light airstrikes for show and the attacks went on. American personnel kept being wounded in Iranian attacks and sometimes we responded and sometimes we didn’t.
After the latest wave of attacks and responses, the Shiite regime in Baghdad demanded that the United States leave Iraq. And Biden, obediently, began negotiating the withdrawal.
Now, three US Army soldiers were killed and over 30 were wounded in an Iranian-backed drone attack on a position on the Jordanian-Syrian border. This is the worst death toll in some time.
A few months after the Shiite Islamic regime in Tehran commemorated the takeover of the U.S. embassy with chants of “Death to America”, it succeeded in inflicting more death on Americans.
Biden has issued a statement vowing that, once again, “we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing.” Like Austin’s previous statement after the murder of Scott Dubis, that means that no one should expect a quick meaningful response.
The message to Iran and its Islamic terrorists is that they have nothing to worry about. And Iran’s message to us is that we can never pull out far enough until we have surrendered the entire region, the rest of the world and then finally our own country to the enemy…
| — Hat tip: Daniel Greenfield | [Return to headlines] |
Houthis Claim Missile Attack on U.S. Navy Warship
The Iran-backed Houthi terrorists of Yemen said on Wednesday they fired several anti-ship missiles at a U.S. warship in the Red Sea.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said a single missile targeted the guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely and was intercepted without injuries or damage to the ship.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
The U.S. is planning to go after Iranian targets outside Iran, with strikes as well as cyber efforts, according to a report after Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke of a ‘multileveled’ response.
| — Hat tip: SS | [Return to headlines] |
Putin Vows to Make Military Gains in Ukraine as He Meets With His Campaign Staff
Moscow — President Vladimir Putin vowed Wednesday to push back Ukrainian forces to reduce the threat of attacks on Russian territory as he met with activists running his campaign ahead of the March presidential election that he’s all but certain to win.
Asked about plans for the military campaign in Ukraine, Putin said the line of contact needs to be pushed back to “such a distance from our territory that will make it safe from Western-supplied long-range artillery that Ukrainian authorities use for shelling peaceful cities.”
He added the Russian military has been doing just that, “pushing the enemy back from vital populated centers.”
“This is the main motive for our guys who are fighting and risking their lives there — to protect the Motherland, to protect our people,” he added.
| — Hat tip: Dean | [Return to headlines] |
Rumors That Ukraine’s Top Commander May be Dismissed Expose Rifts in Ukraine Top Brass
Rifts within Ukraine’s top leadership have burst into the open following swirling rumors that the country’s top military chief will be dismissed amid reported tensions with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The rumors that Valerii Zaluzhnyi would be sacked were denied by Zelenskyy’s office and the Defense Ministry this week and the immensely popular top commander still retains his post. But the reports have fueled expectations of his imminent resignation, which could be a boon for Russia as the war approaches its second anniversary.
| — Hat tip: LP | [Return to headlines] |
Russia Parliament Approves Law to Confiscate Assets of People Who Criticise the Military
MOSCOW (AP) — The lower house of Russia’s parliament on Wednesday approved a bill that would allow authorities to confiscate money, valuables and other assets from people convicted of spreading “deliberately false information” about the country’s military.
After its swift passage in the State Duma, the bill is now expected to quickly sail through the upper house of parliament and receive Russian President Vladimir Putin’s signature.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Ukraine Running Short of Weapons as War With Russia About to Pass 2-Year Mark — Report
Meanwhile Russia’s MoD Shoigu urged faster artillery production following series of Ukrainian drone attacks
Ukraine is running short of weapons to protect its cities with vital assistance from Europe and the United States held up by political disputes, Bloomberg said on Wednesday.
After Ukraine’s 2023 counteroffensive failed, Zelenskiy is said to be seeking a bolder approach to the conflict, noted the report. “As Russia’s invasion grinds into a third year, the fighting has settled into trench warfare with drones leaving little chance for either side to surprise the other along the front.”
| — Hat tip: MM | [Return to headlines] |
World Court Rules Russia Violated U.N. Treaties, Denies Reparations to Ukraine
In a landmark ruling, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) declared that Russia violated elements of a U.N. anti-terrorism treaty but refrained from passing judgment on Kyiv’s allegations regarding the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 in 2014.
The court also determined that Russia breached an anti-discrimination treaty by neglecting to support Ukrainian language education in Crimea post-annexation.
While the decisions represent a legal setback for Ukraine, the ICJ only ordered Russia to comply with the treaties and did not grant reparations.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
China: Rocket-Maker Says Rumored Explosion in Shanghai Was Routine Blast Test
Three employees of LandSpace Technology Co. Ltd. Suffered minor injuries during a blast test on Monday, the rocket-maker told Caixin, denying rumors of a major explosion at its Shanghai testing site.
LandSpace dismissed social media speculation of an explosion at an industrial park in Songjiang district, where a loud bang was heard on Monday evening, causing the windows of nearby buildings to shake and frightening residents.
| — Hat tip: McN | [Return to headlines] |
Japan’s Tight Job Market Fuels Wage Hike Hopes Amidst Annual Negotiations
Japan’s labor market continues to demonstrate signs of tightness, underscoring a labor shortage across various sectors at a critical juncture when companies engage in annual wage negotiations with unions, Bloomberg writes.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs reported on Tuesday that the unemployment rate dropped to 2.4% in December, marking its lowest level since January. The number of employed individuals increased by 380,000 from the previous year, representing the 17th consecutive yearly rise. Industries experiencing significant employment growth included manufacturing, lodging and food services.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
A man who was once an active youth worker said he is now stuck with the heart of a 90-year-old after being forced to get a Covid booster shot to keep his job.
| — Hat tip: SS | [Return to headlines] |
Man Who Allegedly Stabbed Woman in the Head Charged After Citizen’s Arrest
A man has been charged after he was arrested by tradies for allegedly stabbing a woman in her head and upper body.
Witnesses have told police the 47-year-old woman and the 21-year-old man were having an argument on the street at Roberts Ave in Randwick before he allegedly stabbed her multiple times with a paint scrapper.
The man was then chased down by a group of locals who “rugby tackled” the man, and made a citizens arrest before police arrived and placed him on police guard at the Prince of Wales Hospital.
| — Hat tip: DV | [Return to headlines] |
Nat Barr has confronted Lidia Thorpe as her uncle sets up an indefinite camp in a public park and is refusing to leave until the government gives it back.
| — Hat tip: SS | [Return to headlines] |
New Theory Emerges About Woolworths’ Australia Day Snub
Explosive comments from an Aboriginal lawyer unveil a startling theory behind Woolworths’ Australia Day snub.
| — Hat tip: SS | [Return to headlines] |
New Zealand Bans the Use of “Forever Chemicals” in Cosmetics
New Zealand has become the first country to implement a ban on the use of “forever chemicals” in cosmetic products that can pose serious health issues, as reported by the local channel 1News.
“Forever chemicals” refer to per— and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), synthetic chemicals widely used in everyday life. Due to their long-lasting nature, they are termed “forever.” These chemicals are most commonly found in cosmetic products such as nail polish, shaving cream, foundation, lipstick and mascara. The use of these substances makes cosmetics waterproof and extends their shelf life. However, high concentrations of some PFAS may increase the risk of various diseases.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Abascal: Only Vox Defends Strong Borders That Protect Spain From Mass Immigration
During the recently held General Assembly where he was re-elected as president, Santiago Abascal, the leader of VOX, asserted that his party stands as the sole defender of Spain’s national unity. He went to the extent of proposing the outlawing of separatist forces that, according to him, conspire to dismantle the valuable heritage left by their predecessors.
Abascal highlighted VOX’s unwavering defense of Spain’s history, including the Reconquista and the evangelization of America, emphasizing that their party takes pride in these aspects. He argued that VOX is the only political entity advocating for a unitary state model that ensures freedoms and equality throughout the entire national territory.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Cook Co. Sheriff’s Office Busts Fake ID Ring Targeting Migrants
CHICAGO (CBS) — Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart said sheriff’s police arrested three men from Mexico as part of a scheme encouraging some of the city’s most vulnerable to shoplift in exchange for fake IDs.
The ringleaders would reward migrants for shoplifting by giving them documents so they could then get legitimate jobs.
Fake IDs and very real cash are tied to recent retail thefts in River North.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Dutch Provinces Tasked With Providing 96,000 Asylum Seeker Accommodation Spaces
Dutch provinces are required to set up 96,000 accommodation spaces for asylum seekers in collaboration with municipalities this year, as announced by the caretaker State Secretary Eric van der Burg.
Zuid-Holland, Noord-Holland, and Noord-Brabant are expected to encounter significant challenges, with Zuid-Holland tasked to provide shelter for almost 20,000 placements, Noord-Holland needing over 16,000, and Noord-Brabant just under 15,000, as reported by NL Times. Among the nationwide placements required, at least 8,140 must be suitable for unaccompanied children.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Fake Conservative Ben Shapiro Donated Over 100,000 USD to Pro-Mass Migration Organization in 2022
Neoconservative commentator Ben Shapiro, known for his anti-Trump stance, reportedly contributed between $100,000 and $500,000 to the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) during fiscal year 2022, as disclosed by former Utah U.S. Senate candidate Sam Parker in an X post.
Apart from support from figures like Shapiro, HIAS is also receiving federal assistance to facilitate the resettlement of migrants from third-world countries into the U.S., a practice criticized for its potential impact on the nation’s demographics. Critics argue that this migrant-trafficking operation is fueled by bribes to globalist officials rather than a genuine response to humanitarian needs.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
First Major City in Germany Seeks “Remigration” Clerks
For the first time, a major German city, Rostock, is actively seeking a “remigration” clerk, as indicated in a recent job posting on its career portal.
The position is temporary and serves as a sickness replacement, with an application deadline of February 20th. The responsibilities include conducting hearings for foreigners staying illegally, making decisions on measures to end their stay (i.e., deportations), managing deportation detention and exit custody, providing advice on residence and asylum law, and facilitating return to their home countries, Junge Freiheit reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Former Mexican Cartel Member Compares Border Gangs to George Soros
“If you’re a governor, a senator, and if you’re a big man in government, they can still buy you out.”
The Context
Biden continues to face bipartisan criticism over his handling of the U.S.-Mexico border as the country continues to experience a high number of migrant border crossings. There were more than 2.4 million encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border during the 2023 fiscal year, up from roughly 1.7 million in 2021, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Members of the Dutch BBB party suggested sending Ukrainian refugees back to the western part of Ukraine, as this region “appears relatively stable,” according to Dutchnews.
During debates on Monday regarding the government budget and solutions for refugee issues, BBB party representative Mona Keijzer put forth the initiative.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Ireland Expands ‘Safe Countries’ List Amid Rising, Migrant Crisis
Ireland broadens the roster of nations deemed “safe” in response to heightened concerns over the influx of migrants, according to The Brussels Signal. The Irish Government’s decision to include Algeria and Botswana in the “safe countries” list aims to expedite the process of deporting migrants amid the escalating migrant crisis on the island.
Over the past 18 months, migration has transformed from a non-political matter into the predominant concern for voters, poised to take center stage in the upcoming European Parliament elections in June.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Libya Deports Over 300 Migrants Back to Nigeria
On Tuesday, Libyan authorities initiated the repatriation of over 320 irregular migrants back to Nigeria, marking a collaborative effort with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The migrants, predominantly from Nigeria, were deported from Mitiga airport in Tripoli and were set to be sent back from Benina airport in Benghazi. The deportation includes 107 women, 51 men, and five children, AFP reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Migrant Invasion Boosts Support for Trump Among Republican Voters
With decisive victories in the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary, former President Donald Trump is on a trajectory to secure the Republican presidential candidacy for the upcoming elections. Governor Ron DeSantis, his main rival, has retired, and the chances of former US ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley catching up appear slim, positioning Trump for his third election in eight years.
A key factor uniting Republican voters behind Trump is the Biden Administration’s perceived mishandling of the immigration crisis at the southern border. Against the backdrop of nearly 3 million illegal border crossings recorded by Customs and Border Protection in the last fiscal year, voters fondly recall Trump’s immigration policies. Trump has capitalized on this sentiment, vowing to implement “the largest and most massive deportation operation in the country” if he returns to the White House.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Netherlands: Left-Wing Parties Oppose Motion for Streamlined Ban on Anti-Semitic Migrants
In a significant move, the majority of the Netherlands’ House of Representatives has given its nod to a proposal aimed at closely examining instances of anti-Semitic behavior among individuals seeking residence permits.
Notably, this motion encountered resistance from left-wing parties. The initiative was spearheaded by the SGP, underscoring a commitment to rejecting hatred towards Jews within the country, Nieuwrechts NL reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
A deprived Boston community has been left ‘on fire’ after the governor of Massachusetts requisitioned a vital rec center to house the surge of migrants arriving in the city.
Democrat Maura Healey was accused of treating the Roxbury neighborhood ‘like garbage’ after she locked residents out of the Melnea A. Cass Recreational Complex with less than 48 hours notice.
She insisted it was needed to house the new arrivals, dozens of whom have been sleeping rough in the city’s airport for months.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
A migrant who was connected to a gang of four accused of brutally beating up two police officers in Times Square has been seen in handcuffed in court — as investigators assess new footage of the horrific attack.
Jhoan Boada, 22, was arrested Monday night and charged with attempted assault on a police officer and gang assault following the shocking New York City bust-up.
He was seen being perp walked into Manhattan Criminal Court that night.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Syrian Asylum Seekers in Norway: Many Seek Higher Education But Relatively Few Are Employed
The majority of refugees who arrived in Norway during the autumn of 2015 hailed from Syria. However, as of 2022, only 51 percent of them were reported to be employed, according to Statistics Norway. Back in 2015, the influx of Syrians was connected to what was then termed a refugee crisis due to the ongoing war in Syria.
Initially, these Syrian immigrants were often seen as a valuable addition to Norwegian society and its labor market, with widespread beliefs that many were skilled professionals like “doctors, dentists, and engineers” capable of contributing significantly.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Texas Secessionist Claims ‘Texit’ Getting ‘Closer’ Amid Border Dispute
A leading Texas secessionist has claimed that the Lone Star State’s breakaway from the Union — a movement dubbed “Texit” — “could absolutely be closer than we think” amid Gov. Greg Abbott’s battle with the federal government over control of the border with Mexico.
“We’re at a point where Texit is on everyone’s mind, both those for it and those against it,” Daniel Miller, president of the Texas Nationalist Movement, said on Tuesday’s episode of his “Texas News” podcast.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Bud Light Partners With Comedian Shane Gillis After Company’s Fall From Grace
Comedian Shane Gillis will partner with beer brand Bud Light following a dismal year for the brand, according to a company post on Instagram.
“Welcome to the team @shanemgillis, excited to be a part of your 2024 tour,” the beer brand posted.
“Excited to announce partnership with Bud Light #budlightpartner,” Gillis posted to his Instagram account.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Canada: Danielle Smith Announces Ban on Gender Reassignment Surgery for Minors
In a long-awaited announcement on Wednesday, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith unveiled a comprehensive set of policies addressing gender ideology and parental rights.
The premier emphasized her commitment to preserving children’s rights to navigate their growth and make impactful decisions about their lives in a video posted to her X account. However, she also voiced apprehensions about irreversible decisions related to biological sex for youth and underscored potential risks.
One of the focal points of Premier Smith’s address was the stance on gender reassignment treatments for minors. Notably, top and bottom gender reassignment surgeries will not be permitted for children aged 15 and under in Alberta.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
A potentially precedent-setting bill has been proposed in the Florida Senate that could redefine defamation language surrounding terms such as “transphobic,” “homophobic,” “racist,” or “sexist.” The bill, labeled SB 1780, suggests these terms could be deemed defamatory, eliminating the need to satisfy the standard of “actual malice,” which has been a significant threshold in defamation lawsuits since the 1964 Supreme Court case, New York Times v. Sullivan.
Designated as the “Defamation, False Light, and Unauthorized Publication of Name or Likeness” bill, SB 1780 would ease the path to launch defamation lawsuits and make it easier to suppress speech.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Just in: Christian Vet Who Beheaded Satanic Statue at Iowa Capital Charged With Hate Crime
Michael Cassidy has been charged with a hate crime for beheading a statue of Satan at the Iowa Capitol. Cassidy drove up to Iowa after the Satanic display was erected in the state capitol and took it down. He will be arraigned on February 15.
Polk County prosecutors charged Cassidy with felony third-degree criminal mischief, saying that he acted “in violation of individual rights” under Iowa’s hate crime statue, the Des Moines Register reports.
Cassidy had been charged with a misdemeanor fourth-degree criminal mischief the day after the beheading but had been informed that he may be liable for further charges.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Polish Women Massively Seek Abortions Abroad, Stated in Warsaw
Polish women are extensively traveling abroad for abortion procedures, announced the Republic’s Minister of Health, Izabela Leszczyna, during a press conference in Warsaw on Wednesday. Abortion has been prohibited in Poland since 1993, with exceptions only for situations where there is a threat to the pregnant woman’s life or in cases of pregnancy resulting from rape.
According to Leszczyna, Polish women are traveling to neighboring countries where abortion is permitted to terminate pregnancies.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
Swedish Parents Stop Drag Queens in Kindergarten
When two preschools in Lidingö initially planned to introduce drag queens for reading fairy tales to children, parents expressed strong objections, leading to a change in plans.
The theater company’s visits were ultimately canceled amid concerns raised by some parents who found it inappropriate. The decision to bring in drag queens was part of an initiative to boost children’s interest in reading and reduce alienation, Samnytt reported.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
The World’s Largest Data Breach Has 26 Billion User Data
A recent discovery reveals a massive data leak, potentially the largest of its kind, encompassing twelve terabytes and approximately 26 billion accounts. Experts warn that the compilation of information, including data from previous leaks and new sources, poses significant risks.
Affected users, originating from platforms like Twitter, VK, Dropbox, Facebook, and Netflix, are urged to change their passwords promptly, Cybernews reports.
| — Hat tip: Reader from Chicago | [Return to headlines] |
“Blaha questioned the authority of Brussels technocrats to formulate a plan to harm Hungary’s economy.”
Haha. If they do as well with Hungary as they have done with Russia, Hungary has very good times ahead!