UK PM Sunak warns of spread in antisemitism as European protests grow
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took a stand against antisemitism on university campuses on Thursday, May 9. Sunak met with university leaders to address concerns about disruptions to learning due to possible antisemitic abuse amid pro-Palestinian protests.
Sunak emphasized the importance of protecting freedom of speech while ensuring that universities remain places of tolerance and safety.
Pro-Palestinian protests sprung up at about a dozen U.K. universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, prompting worries among some Jewish students about antisemitism. To tackle the issue, Sunak announced additional funding to support Jewish students and summoned vice chancellors from top universities to discuss efforts to combat antisemitism.
Specifically, Sunak announced that the government would provide an additional $623,000 to the University Jewish Chaplaincy Service to support Jewish students. The organization provides support for Jewish students at more than 100 universities in the U.K.
Meanwhile, across Europe, campus protests by pro-Palestinian activists spread. Some called on universities to cut academic ties with Israel over the war in Gaza. In Dublin, Ireland, Trinity College students ended a peaceful protest after the institution agreed to divest from Israeli companies that the United Nations said had links to settlements in occupied Palestinian territories.
In Berlin, German police broke up a protest at Free University Berlin. Meanwhile, in Amsterdam, protesters occupied a university building, leading police to intervene. Similar protests popped up in Finland, Denmark, Italy, Spain, France and Britain.
In the United States, police have taken action against pro-Palestinian protesters as well. At the University of Chicago, authorities cleared a pro-Palestinian tent encampment. The move comes as police dismantled many other encampments across the country.
More than 34,000 Palestinians died since the start of Israel-Hamas war, according to the Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry.
Israel vowed to wipeout Hamas in response to the Oct. 7, terrorist attack, which killed 1,200 Israelis and saw Hamas militants kidnap around 250 people.
13 federal judges refuse to hire Columbia University grads after protests
13 U.S. federal judges are taking a stance against Columbia University in New York City for its handling of campus protests. In a letter on Monday, May 6, the judges vowed not to hire any future students from Columbia University beginning with the 2024 freshman class.
The judges expressed their loss of confidence in the institution, labeling the school an “incubator of bigotry.” The judges cited what they saw as a surge in disruptions, antisemitism and hatred for diverse viewpoints on campuses nationwide since October.
The judges laid out three demands for the university to reclaim its reputation. They insisted the university implement serious consequences for people involved in campus disruptions, neutrality when protecting free speech and diversifying viewpoints among faculty and staff. The letter concluded by saying the objective of the boycott “is not to hamper academic freedom, but to restore it at Columbia University.”
Demonstrations against Israel and the ongoing war in Gaza spread to dozens of universities across the country, leading to clashes between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli protesters. At Columbia, an encampment formed on the main campus. Then, protestors temporarily occupied a campus building last week. That occupation led to more than 100 arrests by the New York Police Department.
The 13 judges, all of whom were appointed by former President Donald Trump, are part of a larger body of nearly 900 federal judges. Their annual hiring for prestigious clerkships adds weight to their boycott.
The judges boycott drew mixed reactions. The president of the Legal Insurrection Foundation and founder of EqualProtect.org told Fox News Digital that he questioned judicial involvement in matters outside the courtroom but agreed with the judges on substance.
“My view is that we shouldn’t threaten innocent neutrals as a means of influencing the culpable,” UCLA law professor Eugene Volokh wrote in an opinion article on Reason.
Columbia University has not responded to the letter yet.
Israel takes control of Rafah border crossing amid cease-fire talks
The Israeli military seized control of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt amid talks of a cease-fire. Boeing faces another delay after its Starliner’s mission to space was scrubbed at the last minute. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Tuesday, May 7, 2024.
Israel takes control of Rafah border crossing amid cease-fire talks
Israeli forces deployed tanks to Rafah as part of a ground offensive, described by officials as a limited operation targeting Hamas. While it does not appear a full-scale invasion, the Israeli army said it is conducting “targeted strikes” in the eastern part of the city.
Israel said most residents had evacuated the area near the crossing following its direction to move to an “expanded humanitarian zone” approximately 12 miles away.
With Israel controlling the border crossing, the prospects for a cease-fire remain uncertain.
Hamas communicated to mediators from Qatar and Egypt that it had accepted their ceasefire proposal on Monday, May 6. However, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by stating the proposal did not meet Israel’s demands.
Israel has agreed to send a delegation to Cairo Tuesday to engage in negotiations.
White House, Speaker react to Columbia canceling commencement ceremony
As Straight Arrow News reported on Monday, May 6, Columbia University canceled its main commencement ceremony due to security concerns after weeks of pro-Palestinian protests on campus, a university official announced. The decision came after consultations with students, opting instead for smaller, college-specific ceremonies. More than 200 protesters have been arrested since the demonstrations began.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed the cancellation during a Monday, May 6, press briefing.
“It is unfortunate that a small group of people went too far and cost their classmates this important event,” Jean-Pierre said. “When it comes to commencement day and speaking at these events, the president understands this is a moment of joy and celebration. And we feel for each of the graduates.”
Jean-Pierre repeated President Joe Biden’s White House remarks that protests should remain peaceful. House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Columbia‘s president and administration for its handling of the events, urging the board to appoint a new president due to her “shocking unwillingness to control their campus.”
Meanwhile, Speaker Johnson, facing calls for his removal from office, met with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., for nearly two hours on Monday, May 6. Greene has been vocal about forcing a vote to oust Johnson. Johnson described their meeting as “productive,” and the two are set to continue talks on Tuesday.
Judge fines Trump for gag order violation, warns of possible jail time
The fourth week of former President Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York started Monday, May 6, with another fine levied against the former president. Judge Juan Merchan fined Trump $1,000 for violating a gag order that bars him from discussing the jury or witnesses. This violation, cited during an April 22 interview, follows earlier fines totaling $9,000 for nine previous infractions.
Judge Merchan warned Trump that further violations could result in jail time, stating, “The last thing I would want to do is put the former president in jail, but I have a job to do.”
Outside the courtroom, Trump reacted to the judge’s remarks, emphasizing his commitment to constitutional principles over personal freedom.
“The U.S. Constitution is more important than jail,” Trump said. “And I’ll do that sacrifice any day”
The prosecution also indicated that their case would likely take another two weeks.
US Army sergeant detained in Russia on theft charges
A U.S. soldier was detained in Russia on criminal charges, according to Army officials. Officials said the soldier, identified as Staff Sgt. Gordon D. Black, is being accused of theft.
Black’s mother said he was visiting his girlfriend at the time of his arrest. According to the Army, Black was in the process of switching stations from South Korea to Texas, when he traveled to Russia on his own without official permission.
This incident comes as tensions continue over other detained Americans in Russia, including former Marine Paul Whelan and journalist Evan Gershkovich. Both are being held on espionage charges.
The U.S. continues to caution its citizens against traveling to Russia due to security concerns.
Boeing Starliner spacecraft launch scrubbed due to mechanical issue
Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft encountered another setback Monday night as a planned launch was delayed due to a valve issue in the rocket’s upper stage, just hours before liftoff. Commander Barry “Butch” Wilmore and co-pilot Sunita Williams were already preparing for the flight when the scrub was announced.
A valve issue in the Atlas 5 rocket’s upper stage postponed the launch. NASA and Boeing are now targeting no earlier than a Friday launch. If a valve replacement is needed, the launch may face further delays.
Biden says ‘violent protest is not protected’ in speech on campus unrest
President Biden addresses the nation regarding the protests at college campuses. And China launches a spacecraft it hopes will be the first to bring back samples from the far side of the moon. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Friday, May 3, 2024.
Biden says ‘violent protest is not protected’ in speech on campus unrest
“Both must be upheld,” Biden said. “We are not an authoritarian nation where we silence people or squash dissent. The American people are heard. In fact, peaceful protest is in the best tradition of how Americans respond to consequential issues. But — but neither are we a lawless country. We are a civil society, and order must prevail.”
After days of silence about the demonstrations, Biden delivered his first formal remarks on the unrest from the Roosevelt Room. He echoed previous White House statements saying peaceful protest is American, but violent protest is not protected. Biden added Americans have the right to protest, but not create chaos.
His remarks followed criticism from Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, who had urged Biden to speak out. The president’s comments came just hours after police arrested over 130 people at a UCLA campus encampment.
Today, President Biden delivered remarks on college campus protests. In America, we respect and protect the right of people to make their voices heard.
Biden also addressed the importance of safety and nondiscrimination on college campuses, stating, “People have the right to get an education and walk across campus safely without fear of being attacked. There should be no place on any campus, or in America, for antisemitism or threats of violence against Jewish students.”
After his speech, when reporters asked if the protests would change his policies in the Middle East or if the National Guard should intervene, Biden responded with a single word: “No.”
Prosecutors allege Trump violated gag order four additional times
The judge overseeing Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York is once again deliberating whether the former president breached the gag order that prohibits him from publicly discussing witnesses and jurors.
After finding Trump guilty of nine violations of the gag order earlier in the week and imposing fines, the judge was presented on Thursday, May 2, with four additional alleged violations by the prosecution.
Trump’s attorneys argued that he should be able to respond to ongoing attacks on his presidential campaign.
NY v Trump to resume with gag order hearing after Trump fined $9K, threatened with jail time https://t.co/t0MY97e7jv
The judge has yet to make a ruling on these new allegations.
Later in the day, Trump’s lawyer requested that the judge review a series of articles before Trump posts them to his Truth Social account to ensure they comply with the gag order.
Hamas delegation heads to Egypt for cease-fire talks
Hamas is set to send a delegation to Egypt for further cease-fire talks aimed at ending the war in Gaza. Facilitated by Egyptian and American mediators, these discussions show signs of potential compromise.
“There is a proposal on the table that answers much of the demands that Hamas made in previous rounds of negotiations. Israel made a significant offer,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said. “And this last proposal that went forward, they compromised on many longheld positions that they had taken. And as I said, met many of the demands that Hamas had said they needed to agree to a deal.”
However, the outcome remains uncertain, dependent on whether Israel will agree to end the conflict without achieving its goal of dismantling Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that even if a cease-fire is agreed upon, Israel will still target Rafah, which he claims is Hamas’ final stronghold in Gaza.
As the war approaches the seven month mark, a U.N. report released Thursday has highlighted the severe long-term economic impacts and the extensive rebuilding required in Gaza, saying it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed in Gaza.
China’s Chang’e-6 spacecraft heads to far side of the moon
China launched a Long March 5 rocket Friday morning carrying the Chang’e 6 spacecraft, aiming to be the first mission to return a sample from the far side of the moon.
The spacecraft, named after the Chinese moon goddess, will take five days to reach the moon, with the mission spanning a total of 53 days. Scientists hope the samples will provide insights into the moon’s origin.
Once celebrated as a pandemic success story, Peloton is now grappling with declining sales and subscriber numbers as consumers return to in-person gyms.
The company is looking to cut costs by more than $200 million, aiming to streamline operations and reduce its retail footprint.
7-Eleven teams up with Tetris to offer handheld gaming device
In a collaboration many did not see coming, the video game brand Tetris is celebrating its 40th anniversary by partnering with convenience store chain 7-Eleven. Together, they are offering a limited-edition handheld gaming device shaped like 7-Eleven’s famous beverage, the Slurpee. The device lights up in various colors to resemble different Slurpee flavors.
7-Eleven customers who purchase certain items have the chance to win one of 20,000 devices made. Additionally, the chain is offering an entire line of Tetris apparel on its website as part of the anniversary celebration.
Police move in on UCLA protesters, call encampment an ‘unlawful gathering’
Officers move in on the campus of UCLA with the Los Angeles Police Department calling the pro-Palestinian encampment an “unlawful gathering.” Arizona lawmakers vote to repeal a Civil War-era abortion ban. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Thursday, May 2, 2024.
Police clash with UCLA protesters, call encampment an ‘unlawful gathering’
Police officers began clearing the pro-Palestinian encampment on the campus of UCLA early Thursday morning. Officers in riot gear could be seen arresting some of the protesters following a standoff overnight.
Chants of “peaceful protest” contrast with images of police clashing with demonstrators at UCLA. Overnight, the LAPD declared the pro-Palestinian encampment on the campus an “unlawful gathering” and ordered the protesters to leave.
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Protesters defied those orders, and police were seen entering the encampment Thursday morning. Reports indicate that officers pulled back shortly after scuffling with some of the protesters before they started to dismantle the barricades.
Those in the encampment were heard chanting, “We’re not leaving!”
UCLA has been broadcasting a message telling the protesters to disperse or face administrative action. The school announced classes would be remote May 2 and May 3.
Due to distress following the violence on Royce Quad & ongoing tension regarding campus demonstrations, UCLA First Thursdays, on May 2, has been canceled. We must all protect the wellbeing of our peers & maintain a safe learning environment. https://t.co/X91FIH8vWKpic.twitter.com/HzT8rIeAfY
Similar scenes are unfolding at other college campuses across the country, with police arresting multiple people Wednesday, including 90 at Dartmouth College and at least 15 at Fordham University.
Arizona Senate votes to repeal 1864 near-total abortion ban
Arizona’s GOP-led Senate has voted to repeal a Civil War-era abortion ban, following a successful vote in the state House. The measure was supported by two Republican senators and all Democrats.
This move comes after the Arizona Supreme Court recently ruled the 1864 ban enforceable, overriding a 15-week abortion restriction enacted in 2022.
The repeal will take effect 90 days after the current legislative session ends.
The repeal bill now heads to Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs for approval. If signed into law, Arizona’s main abortion regulation would be the 2022 statute that bans the procedure after 15 weeks of pregnancy.
Police fatally shoot armed student outside Wisconsin middle school
The reports prompted an immediate lockdown and a safety sweep of Mount Horeb Middle School. Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul, D, reported that no other injuries occurred during the incident.
“Police officers from the Mount Horeb Police Department responded to a report of an individual with a weapon outside the middle school,” Kaul stated. “Police officers responded to that threat and they used deadly force. This incident took place outdoors. The subject in this case never gained entry to the school building during the incident, and the subject was a student in the Mount Horeb School District.”
Kaul was unable to confirm whether any shots were fired by the suspect. He also noted that the investigation is still active and some officers involved will be placed on administrative leave.
The school district superintendent announced that the schools would remain open for those seeking support in the aftermath, with plans to resume classes soon.
NY prosecutors seek a fall retrial for Harvey Weinstein
Prosecutors in New York are planning to retry former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein this fall after an appeals court overturned his 2020 rape conviction last week. During a hearing Wednesday, May 1, the judge did not set an exact date but indicated that he expects the new trial to begin after the Labor Day holiday in September.
Weinstein, who appeared in a wheelchair for his first court appearance since his New York conviction was overturned, had been serving a 23-year sentence. He also faces a 16-year sentence for a rape conviction in California, which his attorneys say they plan to appeal this month.
The New York judge remanded Weinstein back to Bellevue Hospital where the 72-year-old former movie mogul has been receiving treatment since last Friday.
The next hearing in this case is scheduled for May 29.
Reports: Exxon reaches agreement with FTC over $60 billion Pioneer merger
Federal antitrust regulators will not block the largest oil and gas deal in two decades after Exxon agreed to exclude former Pioneer Chief Executive Officer Scott Sheffield from its board of directors, according to multiple reports.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the FTC will allege as soon as this week that Sheffield engaged in collusive activity with OPEC representatives, which could have raised gas prices for Americans.
Once the agreement is filed, the acquisition could close within days, marking the biggest deal for Exxon since it merged with Mobil in the late 1990s.
Walt Disney World to host painting collection by former President George W. Bush
Walt Disney World is set to host an art exhibit featuring dozens of portraits of service members and veterans, all painted by former President George W. Bush.
Divisive college protests bring out bipartisan unity in Congress
The pro-Palestinian protests at college campuses around the country have divided students, administrators and observers. However, the demonstrations have also brought some lawmakers in Congress together.
The House passed the Antisemitism Awareness Act on a bipartisan basis Wednesday, May 1. The bill codifies the definition of antisemitism used by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA).
The definition was adopted in 2016 and states: “Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”
The organization gives the following examples:
Drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis.
Denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination. For example, claiming that the existence of a state of Israel is a racist endeavor.
Holding Jews collectively responsible for actions of the state of Israel.
The bill had 62 co-sponsors led by Reps. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., and Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J.
“I believe deeply in speech, in free speech, but I also believe that it’s really important that all students feel safe, and that students aren’t threatened with violence,” Gottheimer said. “And that’s been the problem at a lot of these campuses right now is that students that I’ve met with don’t feel safe.”
“Once it’s passed through the House, it’s really incumbent upon Chuck Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish official in American history to act,” Lawler told reporters.
The bill has 31 bipartisan co-sponsors in the Senate but it was just introduced on April 16, unlike the House version which was brought forward in October. This means the legislation could stall in the chamber.
If the bill is signed into law, it would require the Department of Education to use the IHRA definition when deciding whether there has been a violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color or national origin in programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance.
“We have a severe increase in antisemitic activities. It’s affecting the safety of not just students on campus, but in the general community,” Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., told Straight Arrow News. “I think it’s important that we have a strategy that’s implemented.”
Lawmakers have only had their resolve strengthened by the escalation of protests at college campuses. It appeared to climax the night of Tuesday, April 30, when police arrested nearly 100 people who had taken over Hamilton Hall on the campus of Columbia University.
“It’s clear that not enough action was ever taken that even allowed these things to reach to this point,” Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa, said. “Where now you have people taking the buildings over and everything and you have to send in dozens and dozens of officers to just bring order. Protesting is an American value. But that’s not what is happening right now on these campuses.”
Cardin and Fetterman are both Senate co-sponsors.
The bill also has its opponents. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., wrote a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., asking him to bring an alternative bill forward: The Countering Antisemitism Act.
The most senior Jewish member in the House, Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., called the Antisemitism Awareness Act misguided.
“By effectively codifying them into Title VI, this bill threatens to chill constitutionally protected speech,” Nadler said at the Rules Committee hearing on the legislation. “Speech that is critical of Israel alone does not constitute unlawful discrimination.”
In addition to this bill, Johnson announced House committees will investigate antisemitism at college campuses. Ultimately, members could try to cut funding if they discover Title VI violations.
Violence on UCLA campus over war in Gaza forces cancellation of classes
Officials canceled classes at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), on Wednesday, May 1, after violent clashes between opposing groups of protesters erupted overnight. The confrontation began when pro-Israel protesters allegedly attempted to take apart barricades around a pro-Palestinian encampment on campus.
The escalation followed the university declaring the camps illegal on Tuesday night. UCLA also warned pro-Palestinian protesters of consequences if they refused to leave.
According to UCLA student Edgar Gomez, the situation quickly got worse as people tore down gates, threw water bottles and engaged in fighting. Protesters allegedly shoved, kicked and beat each other with sticks. Additionally, individuals reportedly used pepper spray during the fight.
Just before 1 a.m. local time, Mary Osako, the vice chancellor for UCLA’s Strategic Communications, issued a statement.
“Horrific acts of violence occurred at the encampment tonight and we immediately called law enforcement for mutual aid support,” Osako said. “The fire department and medical personnel are on the scene. We are sickened by this senseless violence.”
Police did not gain control of the situation until more than two hours after Osako released the statement, raising questions about the campus’s preparedness for such unrest.
“Things are not going well,” Gomez said. “People are, like, angry at each other. Lots of tensions are going on. I just hope things can get resolved and maybe with some negotiations going on or who knows what will happen. But I hope things get resolved right away.”
Wednesday morning, the scene returned to calm, but classes remained suspended. As a result, UCLA officials advised people to avoid the impacted area.
Meanwhile, in New York City, police broke up a demonstration at Columbia University. They entered a building filled with antiwar protesters and dispersed the crowd. The university requested police assistance after physical violence erupted.
These incidents came amid a broader movement on college campuses across the country as students protest Israel’s war in Gaza. Tent encampments calling for universities to sever ties with Israel or companies supporting Israel’s war in Gaza sprung up across the U.S.
Speaker Johnson announces House crackdown on antisemitism on campuses
Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and other House Republicans are intensifying their criticism of the nationwide college protests linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Johnson, at a press conference on Tuesday, April 30, described the situation at Columbia University as “out of control” and urged President Joe Biden to adopt a firmer stance on the issue.
Today I joined my @HouseGOP colleagues in denouncing the antisemitism occurring on college campuses across the country.
If these institutions do not take action, @HouseCommerce will be cracking down on those that are in violation of the Civil Rights Act. pic.twitter.com/P32GQQQfoR
“Antisemitism is a virus and because the administration and woke university presidents aren’t stepping in, we’re seeing it spread,” Johnson said, adding that “nearly every committee here has a role to play in these efforts to stop the madness that has ensued.”
House Republicans are advocating for cuts in federal funding to colleges that host these protests and have initiated an investigation into how university administrations manage these demonstrations. They are also pushing for a congressional hearing with several university presidents to further address the situation.
Since January, House Education and the Workforce Chair Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., has initiated six antisemitism investigations into several universities, including Rutgers, the University of California, Berkeley, MIT, Columbia, the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard.
“Those are the policy changes that we’re demanding,” Johnson said. “If they don’t correct this quickly, you will see Congress respond in time. You’re gonna see funding sources begin to dry up. You’re gonna see every level of accountability that we can muster.”
Dozens arrested at Columbia as NYPD clears Hamilton Hall, encampments
Dozens of protesters were arrested after Columbia University calls in the NYPD. Dave and Buster’s is adding something new to its arcade games — a betting option. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Wednesday, May 1, 2024.
Dozens arrested as NYPD clears Hamilton Hall, Columbia encampments
NYPD officers moved in a little after 9 p.m. at the university’s request, using a police vehicle with a ramp to access the second floor of Hamilton Hall after protesters had barricaded themselves inside.
Columbia’s president has requested the NYPD to remain on campus until at least May 17, two days after graduation, to “maintain order and ensure that encampments are not re-established.”
Columbia University said its decision to call in the police was in response to the actions of the protesters, not their cause.
Additionally, the NYPD was called to the City College of New York after it was reported that a large group of people marched from Columbia to its campus. At least 25 people were arrested there.
Speaker Johnson announces House crackdown on antisemitism on campuses
At a press conference, Johnson described the situation at Columbia University as “out of control” and urged President Joe Biden to adopt a firmer stance on the issue.
House Republicans are advocating for cuts in federal funding to colleges that host these protests and have initiated an investigation into how university administrations manage these demonstrations. They are also pushing for a congressional hearing with several university presidents to further address the situation.
Meanwhile, the House is preparing to vote on the “Antisemitism Awareness Act of 2023.” This legislation aims to clarify the definition of antisemitism for the application of anti-discrimination laws, though it has encountered opposition from some Democrats over the act’s definition of antisemitism.
Trump fined $9,000 as trial continues with second week of testimony
Tuesday’s proceedings began with the judge fining Trump $9,000 for violating the judge’s gag order — $1,000 for each violation. The judge warned the former president that future violations could lead to jail time.
Jurors heard testimony from Gary Farro, the banker who assisted Trump’s former attorney Michael Cohen in opening the account used to pay adult film star Stormy Daniels the $130,000 hush money payment at the center of the prosecution’s case.
Keith Davidson, a lawyer who represented Daniels, also testified about how he negotiated the deal between his client and Cohen.
The judge did make one decision in Trump’s favor on Tuesday, announcing there would be no court on May 17 so the former president can attend his son Barron’s high school graduation.
DEA will move to reclassify marijuana in historic shift
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is on the brink of a historic move that could reshape American drug policy. On Tuesday, April 30, the Associated Press reported that the agency is preparing to reclassify cannabis as a less dangerous drug, recognizing its medical uses and low potential for abuse.
The move comes after Biden’s call for a review of federal cannabis laws in October 2022. He also pardoned thousands of Americans convicted of simple possession.
Recent polls show growing support for legalization with 70% of adults in favor, according to Gallup.
However, not everyone is on board with the DEA’s decision. Former DEA Deputy Administrator Jack Riley expressed concerns about the potential risks, citing cannabis as a possible gateway drug.
Earlier mammogram screenings could save more lives
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends that women start getting mammograms every other year beginning at age 40, a shift from previous guidelines that advised starting at age 50.
While the American Cancer Society recommends annual screenings starting at age 45 and the American College of Radiology suggests beginning at age 40, the task force found that biennial screenings minimize the occurrence of false positives and unnecessary procedures without significantly compromising health outcomes.
Insurance companies often follow the task force guidelines for coverage, though most insurers already cover breast cancer screenings at the age of 40.
Dave & Buster’s to allow betting on its arcade games
Heading to Dave and Buster’s with your friends could soon earn you some money. The entertainment chain announced Tuesday, April 30, it will allow customers to wager on its arcade games.
The company is partnering with a gaming provider to create a betting feature in its app. There will be a limit to the size of the bets, but exactly how much has not been disclosed.
The betting function is expected to launch in the next few months.
Debates on college campuses over what makes a protest antisemitic
As the Israel-Hamas conflict continues in Gaza, protests on college campuses across the U.S. are drawing attention. The intentions of the protests have caused national debate, raising questions about antisemitism. Are the pro-Palestinian protests anti-Israel? Are the protests anti-Jew?
Answers vary largely depending on a person’s politics, which is one reason why there is such a divide in Americans’ opinions on what should happen next for the college campus protests.
There is a wide range of photos and videos online that tell different stories of what the protests look like. Some are of peaceful assemblies. In one video, demonstrators chant “free, free, free Palestine,” standing up for Palestinians who they feel Israel is committing genocide against.
However, there is other content surrounding the protests that have some Jewish students and staff claiming that the protests are not just anti-Israel, but also antisemitic.
There are some images showing students in Hamas headbands and images of students with a “final solution” poster — an expression used by Hitler meaning “exterminate all Jews.”
Crazy scene tonight at Columbia University: Jewish students came to the campus – and then this happened. The undergrad who filmed it told me: “We didn’t say a word. My friend had a Jewish star necklace. All of the sudden we’re surrounded, they’ve been circling us, threatening us” pic.twitter.com/VSxbq5Ovj2
Additionally, videos of students using threatening rhetoric have surfaced, leading to student suspensions. In one video, a student can be heard saying, “Why would we want people who are supporters of genocide to live?”
“Be glad, be grateful, that i’m not going out murdering zionists,” the student said.
Another element that makes the rhetoric divisive is that the two sides use the same words and slogans but with different intended meanings.
For example, “from the river to the sea” has become a battlecry for pro-Palestinian protesters who call it a “call for freedom and human rights.” However, it’s origin calls for the abolishment of Israel — an expression some Jews claim targets their lives.
The same applies for the word “intifada.” Pro-Palestinians call it a resistance movement, but history shows previous calls for intifada led to the slaughter of Jewish people.
As unrest fills college campuses, university leadership is left with the question: At what point does pro-Palestinian political speech turn into antisemitic hate speech?
Democratic state lawmakers in Georgia jointly condemned the decision as “a dangerous escalation to protests which were by all accounts peaceful and nonviolent.”
University presidents who are not taking action are also being called out.
“Unchecked antisemitism has become commonplace on Columbia’s campus,” a political ad from Republican lawmakers said. “The university’s inaction has left Jewish students abandoned.”
So the 2pm deadline President Shafik gave to vacate the encampment at @Columbia has come & gone.
And the response? Faculty has formed 'human chain' & signs are seen saying 'Columbia Will Burn'.
Shafik has lost control. This is what cowardice and absence of leadership gets you! pic.twitter.com/hrVsLoQPBe
At Columbia, the words “Columbia will burn” were written on notices that were sent to encampments alerting them to disperse. An academic building was vandalized and occupied by protesters.
The protests are invoking strong opinions from both political sides, and both prominent Democrats and Republicans have condemned protests that cross the line to antisemitic.