Dick Cheney, a prominent Republican figure and former Vice President of the US known for his influential role during 9/11 and the Iraq invasion, has died at age 84. His career included positions as White House chief of staff, Congress member, and Secretary of Defense, and he was a controversial figure due to his policies on war and interrogation. Cheney's legacy is marked by his significant impact on US foreign policy and politics, and he expressed disapproval of Donald Trump in his later years.
The article discusses the dilemma faced by conservative Republicans after the FBI raided John Bolton's house, highlighting Bolton's hawkish foreign policy stance and his complex position within the Republican Party, especially given his past association with Trump and his refusal to support Democrats in the 2024 election.
Virginia Republican Winsome Earle-Sears, running for governor against Democrat Abigail Spanberger, faces a tough campaign with limited fundraising and internal party challenges, while positioning herself as a strong contender amid a competitive political climate.
Federal officials allege that Georgia Republican Brant Frost IV operated a $140 million Ponzi scheme through First Liberty Building and Loan, defrauding 300 investors with false promises of high returns, while spending investor funds on personal expenses and political contributions. The scheme, which began as a loan business, was exposed as a Ponzi scheme by 2021, leading to investigations and potential legal actions.
Susie Wiles, a seasoned Republican political strategist, has been appointed as Donald Trump's new chief of staff, making her the first woman to hold this position in U.S. history. Known for her strategic acumen and behind-the-scenes influence, Wiles has played a crucial role in Trump's political victories, including his recent re-election campaign. Despite her grandmotherly demeanor, she is recognized as a formidable and pragmatic operator in the political arena, balancing Trump's controversial style with disciplined campaign management.
Vivek Ramaswamy, a far-right politician and investor, has acquired a 7.7% stake in BuzzFeed, aiming to become an activist investor and influence the company's strategy and ownership. This move has raised questions about his intentions, given his history of controversial political stances and criticism of mainstream media. BuzzFeed shares surged following the announcement, and the company has been financially struggling since going public in 2021.
Oberweis Dairy, a century-old North Aurora dairy known for its ice cream stores and Republican political aspirations by its owner, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The family-owned dairy owes more than $4 million to its 20 largest unsecured creditors, with Bartlett-based Italian food service company Greco & Sons listed as the largest unsecured creditor. Despite its regional expansion and presence in grocery stores, financial challenges have led to this filing. Jim Oberweis, the grandson of the dairy's founder, pursued a career in Republican politics, with several unsuccessful bids for political office.
Moms for Liberty, a conservative group that has been influential in Republican national politics, is facing a decline in its influence following a sex scandal involving the husband of co-founder Bridget Ziegler, a Sarasota County school board member. The group had been active in supporting candidates in school board races and spearheading campaigns against teachers and administrators.
Moms for Liberty, a right-wing advocacy group that gained prominence during the Covid-19 pandemic, is facing a decline in influence following a sex scandal involving one of its founders, Bridget Ziegler. The group, known for its conservative stance on education issues, has suffered electoral losses in key school board races, raising questions about the future of education as a driving force in Republican politics. The scandal has also highlighted the group's controversial positions on LGBTQ rights and racial justice, alienating voters and prompting criticism. While Moms for Liberty maintains some influence in Florida, its power appears to be waning overall.
Phillip Fisher Jr., a pastor and Republican ward leader, is the faith-based leader for Philadelphia's Moms for Liberty chapter. However, it has been revealed that Fisher is a registered sex offender due to a 2012 felony conviction for aggravated sexual abuse of a 14-year-old boy. Fisher denies any wrongdoing and claims he was set up by a political action committee associated with fringe conspiracy theorist Lyndon LaRouche. After his criminal history came to light, Fisher resigned as leader of the 42nd Ward. The national Moms for Liberty organization has not commented on Fisher's criminal history.
John Oliver criticizes GOP mayoral candidate Gabrielle Hanson in Franklin, Tennessee, for her behavior, which he deems "entirely emblematic of Republican politics." Hanson, who has branded herself as a hardcore MAGA candidate, has attempted to shut down Pride and Juneteenth celebrations, received support from a white nationalist group, and faced allegations of lying about a social media photo and foreseeing a school shooting. Despite her numerous scandals, there is a real chance she could still win the election, highlighting the grip of far-right Republicans on the party.
California's prison system releases inmates without requiring them to have housing, contributing to the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles County. A U.S. citizen has been detained by North Korea after crossing the border from South Korea. Centrist Republicans warn against far-right lawmakers' aggressive funding demands, potentially triggering a government shutdown. Four deaths of women in Portland, Oregon, within three months are linked, with one person of interest identified. RFK Jr. faces backlash for sharing a Covid conspiracy theory, drawing criticism from both Republicans and his own family. The Powerball jackpot reaches $1 billion.
