Hoopla, a service that provides public libraries around the country with ebooks, announced that it will do more to prevent the spread of low quality AI-generated books after a 404 Media investigation showed that they were common on its platform.At hoopla, customer satisfaction is at the core of everything we do, and we deeply appreciate the feedback weve received regarding our content, including AI-related titles, Ann Ford, VP of Sales & Customer Support at Hoopla, said in an email sent to librarians on February 10, which 404 Media then obtained. We want to assure you that we take your concerns very seriously. Your input is invaluable in helping us learn, grow, and continuously improve. In response, our senior management has come together to develop a thoughtful and comprehensive plan of action. While the exact details of the plan Hoopla is putting together to prevent low quality AI-generated books from flooding its platform are still not clear, Hoopla emailed librarians again on February 14 to share more information on actions it has already implemented. This includes revising its collection development policy to ensure we adhere to and evolve with industry best practices, offering librarians better ways to manage the Hoopla catalog by contacting Hoopla directly, and the removal of all summary titles from all vendors, with some exceptions, such as HMH Books, the publisher of the popular CliffNotes series. 404 Media also obtained a copy of this second email.As 404 Medias investigation into Hoopla showed, books that seemingly use AI to summarize existing, human-written books, are some of the most common low quality content on Hoopla as well as other ebooks providers, including Amazon. For example, one publisher called IRB Media had hundreds of summaries available to lend via Hoopla when I published my story on February 4. At the time of writing IRB Media still has about a dozen summaries I could find on Hoopla, but most of its books had been removed.Hooplas second email to librarians also announced that the company has removed some publishers and authors it identified as providing poor-quality and/or poor-quality AI-generated content using industry metadata standards to identify AI-generated content. Some of the low quality AI-generated books I highlighted in my story, like a fatty liver diet cookbook by an author that doesnt appear to exist and has an AI-generated headshot, were removed. Other books, like an AI-generated book about Elon Musk, are still on Hoopla but cant be borrowed. Other books by the same author of the Elon Musk book, Bill Tarino, have been removed as well.It is important to note that libraries may still choose to opt out of all publisher-tagged AI-generated content by contacting their sales representative, Ford said in one of the emails to librarians. It is our hope that you are already noticing the positive impact of these actions.While its notable that Hoopla is actively removing AI-generated books on its platform that it previously ignored, librarians think the company still has a lot of work to do.Librarians select, purchase, and lend materials in service to the public, and they put their trust in hoopla to provide a curated and high-quality catalog of materials, Jennie Rose Halperin, executive director at Library Futures, an organization of librarians, told me in an email. Hoopla has broken this trust in favor of a profit-motivated, exploitative model that flies in the face of professional values. This statement, which is very light on details, continues to avoid accountability for the expensive and shoddy product they are vending. Around the country, libraries are under attack by censors and book banners for simply providing access to quality resources that serve the needs of their communities, and hooplas model puts them further at risk. The misalignment of values between big vendors and libraries has never been clearer.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko talk during a signing ceremony in Minsk, Belarus, Dec. 6, 2024. (Gavriil Grigorov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File)2025-02-20T16:06:01Z MOSCOW (AP) Russia and Belarus will hold a joint military exercise in September, officials said Thursday, part of efforts by the two neighbors and allies to expand their military ties amid the fighting in Ukraine.The Zapad, or West, 2025 drill will involve over 13,000 troops, said Valery Revenko, a Belarusian defense official. He added that observers from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, a top trans-Atlantic security and rights group, will be invited to monitor the drills.Belarus authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled Belarus with an iron hand for over 30 years and has relied on Kremlin subsidies and support, allowed Russia to use his countrys territory to send troops into neighboring Ukraine in 2022 and to host some of its tactical nuclear weapons.Russian troops rolled into Ukraine from Belarus on Feb. 24, 2022, after a joint drill with the Belarusian army. Ukraine and Belarus share a 1,084-kilometer (672-mile) border. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said earlier this month that a Russian military buildup in Belarus, which borders NATO members Latvia, Lithuania and Poland, could set the stage for a potential attack. Russia has repeatedly denied allegations that it could attack NATO members. Revenko said that Belarus is open for mutual military inspections with Poland 80 kilometers (50 miles) deep into each others territory something he said would signal Polands intention to pursue good neighborly ties. If Poland rejects or ignores such action, we will have a different opinion, Revenko said.The United States and the European Union have imposed sweeping sanctions on Belarus over its massive crackdown on protests following the 2020 presidential election and Lukashenkos move to allow Russia to use his countrys territory to send troops into Ukraine.In December, Lukashenko and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a treaty giving security guarantees to Belarus, Moscows closest ally, including the possible use of Russian nuclear weapons to help repel any aggression. At the time, Lukashenko asked Putin to deploy more advanced weapons in Belarus, including the nuclear-capable Oreshnik intermediate range ballistic missile that Russia used for the first time in November against Ukraine.Putin responded that Oreshnik missiles could be deployed to Belarus in the second half of 2025, adding that they will remain under Russian control but Moscow will allow Minsk to select the targets.The signing followed Moscows revision of its nuclear doctrine, which for the first time placed Belarus under the Russian nuclear umbrella amid the tensions with the West over the conflict in Ukraine.Russia hasnt disclosed how many tactical nuclear weapons it has deployed to Belarus, but Lukashenko said in December that his country currently has several dozen of them. The deployment extends Russias capability to target several NATO allies in Eastern and Central Europe.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Ky., speaks during an interview with the Associated Press at his office in the Capitol, Nov. 6, 2023 in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)2025-02-20T16:15:47Z LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell is announcing on Thursday that he wont seek reelection next year, ending a decadeslong tenure as a power broker who championed conservative causes but ultimately ceded ground to the fierce GOP populism of President Donald Trump.McConnell, the longest-serving Senate party leader in U.S. history, chose his 83rd birthday to share his decision not to run for another term in Kentucky and to retire when his current term ends. He informed The Associated Press of his decision before he was set to address colleagues in a speech on the Senate floor.His announcement begins the epilogue of a storied career as a master strategist, one in which he helped forge a conservative Supreme Court and steered the Senate through tax cuts, presidential impeachment trials and fierce political fights. Seven times, my fellow Kentuckians have sent me to the Senate, McConnell said in prepared remarks provided in advance to the AP. Every day in between Ive been humbled by the trust theyve placed in me to do their business here. Representing our commonwealth has been the honor of a lifetime. I will not seek this honor an eighth time. My current term in the Senate will be my last. McConnell, first elected in 1984, intends to serve the remainder of his term ending in January 2027. The Kentuckian has dealt with a series of medical episodes in recent years, including injuries sustained from falls and times when his face briefly froze while he was speaking. The senator plans to deliver his speech in a chamber the famously taciturn McConnell revered as a young intern long before joining its back benches as a freshman lawmaker in the mid-1980s. His dramatic announcement comes almost a year after his decision to relinquish his leadership post after the November 2024 election. South Dakota Sen. John Thune, a top McConnell deputy, replaced him as majority leader. McConnells looming departure reflects the changing dynamics of the Trump-led GOP. Hes seen his power diminish on a parallel track with both his health and his relationship with Trump, who once praised him as an ally but has taken to criticizing him in caustic terms.In Kentucky, McConnells departure will mark the loss of a powerful advocate and will set off a competitive GOP primary next year for what will now be an open Senate seat. Kentucky Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear, seen as a rising star in his party for winning statewide office in Republican territory, has said he has no interest in the Senate, though he is widely viewed as a contender for higher office.McConnell, a diehard adherent to Ronald Reagans brand of traditional conservatism and muscular foreign policy, increasingly found himself out of step with a GOP shifting toward the fiery, often isolationist populism espoused by Trump.McConnell still champions providing Ukraine with weapons and other aid to fend off Russias invasion, even as Trump ratchets up criticism of the country and its leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The senator plans to make it clear Thursday that national defense remains at the forefront of his agenda. Thanks to Ronald Reagans determination, the work of strengthening American hard power was well underway when I arrived in the Senate, McConnell said in his prepared remarks. But since then, weve allowed that power to atrophy. And today, a dangerous world threatens to outpace the work of rebuilding it. So, lest any of our colleagues still doubt my intentions for the remainder of my term: I have some unfinished business to attend to.McConnell and Trump were partners during Trumps first term, but the relationship was severed after McConnell blamed Trump for disgraceful acts in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack by his supporters. A momentary thaw in 2024 when McConnell endorsed Trump didnt last. Last week, Trump referred to McConnell as a very bitter guy after McConnell, who battled polio as a child, opposed vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s confirmation as the nations top health official. McConnell referred to Trump as a despicable human being and a narcissist in a biography of the senator by The Associated Press deputy Washington bureau chief, Michael Tackett. Before their falling out, Trump and McConnell pushed through a tax overhaul largely focused on reductions for businesses and higher-earning taxpayers. They joined forces to reshape the Supreme Court when Trump nominated three justices and McConnell guided them to Senate confirmation, tilting the high court to the right. McConnell set a new precedent for hardball partisan tactics in 2016 by refusing to even give a hearing to Democratic President Barack Obamas pick of Merrick Garland to replace the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. Putting the brakes on the Senates advise and consent role for judicial nominees, McConnell said the vacancy should be filled by the next president so voters could have their say. Trump filled the vacancy once he took office, and McConnell later called the stonewalling of Garlands nomination his most consequential achievement. Later, when liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died weeks before the 2020 presidential election won by Democrat Joe Biden, McConnell rushed Amy Coney Barretts confirmation through the Senate, waving off allegations of hypocrisy.McConnell also guided the Senate and Trump through two impeachment trials that ended in acquittals.In the second impeachment, weeks after the deadly Capitol attack by a mob hoping to overturn Trumps 2020 reelection defeat, McConnell joined all but seven Republicans in voting to acquit. McConnell said he believed Trump couldnt be convicted because hed already left office, but the senator also condemned Trump as practically and morally responsible for the insurrection.McConnell over the years swung back and forth from majority to minority leader, depending on which party held power. He defended President George W. Bushs handling of the Iraq war and failed to block Obamas health care overhaul.McConnell, the longest-serving senator ever from Kentucky, ensured that the Bluegrass State received plenty of federal funding. Back home he was a key architect in his partys rise to power in a state long dominated by Democrats.He is married to Elaine Chao, and they have long been a power couple in Washington. In his prepared remarks Thursday, the senator referred to her as his ultimate teammate and confidante. Chao was labor secretary for Bush and transportation secretary during Trumps first term, though she resigned after the Capitol insurrection, saying it had deeply troubled her.McConnells parting words reflected his devotion to the Senate and his disdain for his detractors.The Senate is still equipped for work of great consequence, he said. And, to the disappointment of my critics, Im still here on the job.___Follow the APs coverage of Mitch McConnell at https://apnews.com/hub/mitch-mcconnell. 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Gabby Windey may have started her career as an ER nurse and NFL cheerleader, but now shes well on her way to becoming a superstar and lesbian icon.Fans may recognizer her from reality TV shes well known by Bachelor Nation but now shes making waves on TikTok, where she has over 750,000 followers who love her deadpan delivery and jokes about lesbians taking over the world and men, why men shouldnt be front-facing, and how the Y chromosome is on its way out.They say I need rescuing, she quips in one TikTok. Why? Because Im gaaaAAYY? Well, no buoy, no life alert is going to save me. No, I want to stay stranded on the island of Lesbos. Nobody can save me from this rug-munching tree.Its videos like this and her disarming cool-girl persona that make her a lesbian icon and our favorite star of the new season of The Traitors. She flew under the radar early on, but now shes one of a few players left standing who are vying for the $250,000 prize.And this season has been packed with reality stars you love (Bob the Drag Queen) and ones you love to hate-watch (were looking at you, Tom Sandoval), but Windey is the queer girlie weve had our eye on since day one.But who is this LGBTQ+ veteran of some of the straightest reality shows around, and why are we loving her on The Traitors? We'll explain.Why you should be obsessed with Gabby Windey's TikTok@gabbywindeyIts real research swearShe knows how to cut men down to size in the most biting and scientific way ever!Her jokes about The Traitors will have you giggling@gabbywindeyNew ep tonight!! Like rn heheWindey has been dominating The Traitors using her TikTok platform to make cute and funny videos advertising the show. You can't help but fall in love with her charm and wit!Why her fans call her "Gaggy"@gabbywindeyGaggy to uDie-hard Windey fans may call her "Gaggy," but the origin of this silly nickname is less NSFW than you'd expect, and instead has to do with an unexpected visitor and a misspelling. She is genuinely hilarious.@gabbywindeyWelcome!!Honestly, she can talk about nothing at all and we're rapt and cackling. @gabbywindeyJk i dont wanna pet nothinWe love her love.@gabbywindeyNothing to sayHer relationship with Robby Hoffman is the cutest. Yep, this is exactly the kind of Sapphic content that gives us queer joy. But how did we get here?How did Gabby Windey get her start on reality TV? (@) Windy started her television career starring on the heteronormative, straighter-than-straight reality show The Bachelor. She made a name for herself on season 26 of the dating show when she got to the top three, and then rejected the titular bachelors rose, and then slammed him during their breakup after he convinced her to stay.Did Gabby Windey get engaged on The Bachelorette? (@) She co-starred on season 19 of The Bachelorette where she ended up engaged to Erich Schwer. The engagement was short-lived, though, and the couple broke up just two months after their engagement episode aired on TV.Next, Windey competed in Dancing With the Stars, finishing in second place.When did Gabby Windey come out?Windey came out as queer by announcing that she was in a relationship with a woman during an appearance on The View in August 2023.Ive been keeping it kind of private because it is a bigger story and a bigger conversation because Im dating a girl, Windey said when asked if she had any relationship updates.Windey admitted that being attracted to women was always a whisper in me that got louder and louder, but she still felt shame about it.I didnt really know to pay attention to it, she added. I think when this happens, theres some shame surrounding it. So I had to navigate through the shame. Like, what is it? Wheres it coming from? But ultimately, like I said, I always just want to kind of like, do me do what I want figure it out later.When host Joy Behar asked if shes only into girls now, Windey gave the sweetest answer, I think so. I think its just my girl, shes the best.Who is Gabby Windey dating?See on InstagramThe high femme Windey is dating masc, queer comedy writer Robby Hoffman and the two couldnt be cuter together. They went Instagram official in August 2023, but Windey celebrated their first anniversary with an Instagram post in May 2024. The two moved in together in September 2024 and they still frequently post sweet messages about each other on Instagram.Who is Gabby Windey's girlfriend, Robbie Hoffman?See on InstagramHoffman grew up in a Hasidic Jewish family with nine siblings but now considers herself to be ex-Hasidic. The 35-year-old comedian is a stand-up comic and comedy writer who was named Comic to Watch in 2020 by the New York Comedy Festival. She has written for shows like Workin Moms, The Chris Gethard Show, Baroness Von Sketch Show, and Odd Squad, which she scored a Daytime Emmy for. Hoffman is currently working on writing a comedy for Showtime and A24 thats loosely based on her own life called Rivkah, Cosmo reports.How is Gabby Windey doing on The Traitors? (@) Windey has made it all the way to episode nine of The Traitors fingers crossed she makes it to the very end! While on the show, she formed an alliance with fellow queer reality TV star Chrishell Stause and wrestler Nikki Garcia who dubbed themselves The Bambis, Page Six reports.But now the former cheerleader turned lesbian podcaster and reality TV star is the only Bambi left standing. Windey, ever the straight shooter, has repeatedly put men in their place while on the show, and when asked what reality TV show she came from and how that ended, her answer was perfect. Im a lesbian now. What an icon!

Rabbi Yusuf Hamra, left, and his son Henry take pictures as they visit the Al-Raqi synagogue in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki)2025-02-20T14:51:10Z DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) As Rabbi Yusuf Hamra and his son Henry were visiting Damascus this week for the first time since emigrating from Syria to the United States more than three decades ago, they were met by former neighbors offering embraces and gossip . The Syrian-American Jewish family returned as part of a delegation organized by the Syrian Emergency Task Force, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization, in the wake of the fall of the government of former President Bashar Assad.Although they had not met in more than 30 years, the familys Christian neighbors spotted Yusuf on the street and remembered him from when he was a teacher in the local school. An excited exchange of reminiscences ensued to catch up on the decades, with gossip about who had married who, who was still living and who had emigrated. Rabbi Yusuf Hamra, right, is greeted by neighbours in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Rabbi Yusuf Hamra, right, is greeted by neighbours in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More I left from Syria, but Syria never left us, said Henry, who was 15 when his family left for New York. During the visit, the Hamras prayed in the long-neglected al-Franj synagogue where Yusuf used to serve as a rabbi, in what is still known as the Jewish quarter, in the old city of Damascus, although only a small handful of Jews remain. They also visited the historic synagogue in the suburb of Jobar, which was heavily damaged and looted during Syrias nearly 14-year civil war.May God help us, this wont be rebuilt for decades, Yusuf said as he surveyed the destruction. Syrian-American Rabbi Yusuf Hamra visits a synagogue destroyed during the war at the Jobar district in the outskirts of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Syrian-American Rabbi Yusuf Hamra visits a synagogue destroyed during the war at the Jobar district in the outskirts of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Travel restrictions lifted in 1992 Even before mass anti-government protests in 2011 were met by a brutal authoritarian crackdown that eventually spiraled into a civil war, Syrias once-sizeable Jewish population had dwindled to almost nothing. The community in Syria numbered about 100,000 at the start of the 20th century. A wave of emigration had already begun at that time and accelerated in the years surrounding Israels creation in 1948, Syrian Jews faced increased tensions and restrictions. Many emigrated to Israel, the United States and other countries.Under the Assad familys 54-year authoritarian rule, Jews in Syria were free to practice their religion, but community members faced suspicion of being Israeli spies or collaborators and were banned from traveling outside the country to prevent them from going to Israel until the early 1990s. Rabbi Yusuf Hamra, right, and his son Henry lookout an old scripture at the Efranj synagogue in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Rabbi Yusuf Hamra, right, and his son Henry lookout an old scripture at the Efranj synagogue in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Rabbi Yusuf Hamra, center left, prays the Al-Raqi synagogue in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Rabbi Yusuf Hamra, center left, prays the Al-Raqi synagogue in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Once travel restrictions were lifted in 1992 after Arab-Israeli peace talks started, most of the remaining population of about 4,500 left - including the Hamra family - with many of them landing in New York, where they formed a close-knit community.Henry Hamra recalled that his family had lived in constant fear of the draconian Syrian intelligence services - a common experience for Syrians of all religions during the Assad dynastys rule, but even more so because they were Jewish and subject to extra scrutiny. At the same time, he remembered the familys close bond with their Muslim and Christian neighbors. Syrian-American Henry Hamra takes pictures at a synagogue destroyed during the war at the Jobar district in the outskirts of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Syrian-American Henry Hamra takes pictures at a synagogue destroyed during the war at the Jobar district in the outskirts of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Plans for rebuilding and reconstructionMouaz Moustafa, executive director of the Syrian Emergency Task Force, said he hoped that the Jewish delegation would encourage more Syrian Jews to return - and would help make the case for Washington to lift sanctions that had been imposed during Assads era. Moustafa said he also hoped that the visit would also show that the countrys new authorities - led by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, who was formerly the leader of the Islamist insurgent group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS - are serious in their public statements about inclusivity and protection of minorities and would lead the U.S. and others to remove the terrorist designation from the group.The Jewish delegation met with Syrias deputy foreign minister, and Yusuf Hamra sent a letter to al-Sharaa in which he said that the Syrian Jewish community abroad continues to cherish its deep-rooted connection to Syria, its motherland. American-Jewish visitors hold Torah scrolls at a synagogue in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) American-Jewish visitors hold Torah scrolls at a synagogue in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Throughout history, this community has been an integral part of the Syrian national fabric, Hamra wrote. We look forward to rebuilding bridges of communication and to actively participating in the reconstruction of our homeland, standing side-by-side with our fellow Syrians. The return of the Syrian Jews was widely welcomed in Damascus but some questioned the delegation political motives and whether it was meant as a precursor for normalization of relations with Israel. Moustafa said that was not the case. The goal of this visit has no relationship to any country in the region except for Syria, he said. Rabbi Yusuf Hamra, left, leaves after visiting a Jewish school in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Rabbi Yusuf Hamra, left, leaves after visiting a Jewish school in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Hard to move back hereAs emotional as the homecoming was, the Hamras said they are not ready to think about a permanent return to Damascus, where more than a decade of war has left the infrastructure battered.You cannot stay with no electricity, you cannot stay with no water, and when youre living in New York and you have 24 hour electricity and internet... its very, very, very hard to move back here, Henry said. Rabbi Yusuf Hamra prays at the al-Franj synagogue where he used to serve as a rabbi in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Rabbi Yusuf Hamra prays at the al-Franj synagogue where he used to serve as a rabbi in the old city of Damascus Feb. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More ABBY SEWELL Sewell is the Associated Press news director for Lebanon, Syria and Iraq. She joined the AP in 2022 but has been based in the region since 2016, reporting and guiding coverage on some of its most significant news stories. twitter mailto RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

FILE - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaks during his briefing in Kyiv, Ukraine, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky, File)2025-02-20T15:01:08Z KYIV, Ukraine (AP) A planned news conference after talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trumps Ukraine envoy was canceled Thursday as political tensions deepened between the two countries over how to end the almost three-year war with Russia.The format of the press event, which was to include comments to the media by Zelenskyy and retired U.S. Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, was changed at the last minute so that the two did not deliver statements or field questions from journalists. The change was requested by the U.S. side, Ukrainian presidential spokesman Serhii Nikiforov said.Kelloggs trip to Kyiv coincided with recent feuding between Trump and Zelenskyy that has bruised their personal relations and cast further doubt on the future of U.S. support for Ukraines war effort.Nikiforov gave no other reason other than that the cancellation was in accordance with U.S. wishes. The U.S. delegation made no immediate comment. The White House did not immediately respond to questions about why the news conference was called off.When the meeting began, photographers and video journalists were allowed into a room where the two men shook hands before sitting across from each other at a table at the presidential office in Kyiv. The two men were due to speak about Trumps efforts to end the war. Zelenskyy had previously said he looked forward to explaining what was happening in Ukraine and showing it to Kellogg. Kellogg, one of the architects of a staunchly conservative policy book laying out an America First national security agenda, has long been Trumps top adviser on defense issues.Zelenskyy and Trump have traded rebukes in recent days.The spat erupted after Russia and the U.S. agreed Tuesday to start working toward ending the war in Ukraine and improving their diplomatic and economic ties. With that, Trump abruptly reversed the three-year U.S. policy of isolating Russia. Zelenskyy was unhappy that a U.S. team opened the talks without inviting him or European governments that have backed Kyiv.When Trump claimed Zelenskyy was deeply unpopular in Ukraine, the president said Trump was living in a Russian-made disinformation space, suggesting he had been duped by Putin.But Zelenskyy retains a fairly high level of public trust about 57 percent according to a report released Wednesday by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology.Trump accused Zelenskyy of being A Dictator without Elections!! Due to the war, Ukraine did delay elections that were scheduled for April 2024.Trump also suggested that Ukraine was to blame for the war.Russias army crossed the border on Feb. 24, 2022, in an all-out invasion that Putin sought to justify by falsely saying it was needed to protect Russian-speaking civilians in eastern Ukraine and prevent the country from joining NATO.On Wednesday, Trump warned Zelenskyy that he better move fast to negotiate an end to Russias invasion of Ukraine or risk not having a nation to lead.European leaders also commented on the feud, throwing their support behind Zelenskyy. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz whose country has been Kyivs second-biggest weapons supplier after the U.S., said it was wrong and dangerous to deny Zelenskyys democratic legitimacy.Ukraine has been defending itself for nearly three years against a merciless war of aggression day after day, Scholz told news outlet Der Spiegel.British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke to Zelenskyy on Wednesday and expressed support for him as Ukraines democratically elected leader, Starmers office said, adding that it was perfectly reasonable to postpone elections during wartime.Russian officials, meanwhile, are basking in Washingtons attention and offering words of support for Trumps stance.Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the rhetoric of Zelenskyy and many representatives of the Kyiv regime in general leaves much to be desired a veiled reference to Ukrainian criticism of Putin.Representatives of the Ukrainian regime, especially in recent months, often allow themselves to make statements about the heads of other states that are completely unacceptable, Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. Amid the diplomatic clamor, Ukrainian civilians continue to endure Russian strikes. Russia fired 161 Shahed and decoy drones and up to 14 missiles of various types at Ukraine overnight from Wednesday to Thursday, according to military authorities.A Russian glide bomb struck an apartment block in the southern city of Kherson on Wednesday night, killing one person and wounding six, including 14-year-old twins, authorities said.The southern port city of Odesa also came under a Russian drone attack for the second consecutive night, leaving almost 50,000 homes without electricity in freezing winter temperatures, officials said.___Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine JUSTIN SPIKE Spike is an Associated Press reporter based in Budapest, Hungary. twitter mailto

Ziff Davis, the $2 billion media conglomerate that owns dozens of sites including PCMag, Lifehacker, IGN and CNET, is quietly taking diversity, equity, and inclusion information off of its website, 404 Media has learned.In the past month, the company removed information about diversity-focused employee resource groups, inclusion-based hiring goals, and diversity training for its workers and managers from its corporate website.The changes were first spotted by a Ziff Davis employee. 404 Media granted the employee anonymity to speak candidly.An archived version of Ziff Daviss DEI webpage saved on January 19 states, Ziff Davis is proud to offer Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), voluntary employee-led groups mentored by executive sponsors and overseen by our Global DEI and HR Programs team. They represent seven identity groups: Asian, Black, 2SLGBTQIA+, Latinx/Hispanic, family of all kinds, women and gender minorities, and interfaith.On the same page at time of writing, and as early as February 12, the description of employee resource groups had been changed to remove specific mentions of those groups. It now says, All employees are welcome to create or join Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which are voluntary employee-led groups mentored by executive sponsors.The page as it appeared January 29The page as it appears todayInternal HR reps assure us all is well, that DEI programs and employee resource groups will remain unchanged, the employee told 404 Media. But theyre still concerned about the changes to the website. The internal reassurances, public silence, and website changes leaves me feeling gaslighted about our companys commitment to DEI.Other sections have been removed from the website entirely. On the archived version of the page from January, the company stated that it gave senior leadership bonuses depending on how well they met its diversity goals.In 2023, we activated 100% of the $1 million committed to hiring POC freelancers by year-end, the January webpage said. Another ongoing action listed included adding non-financial DEI targets, based on internal talent goals, to the annual compensation plans of executives with substantial hiring oversight. The bonus plans of certain senior executives include a hiring, retention, and leadership component based on the achievement of Ziff Davis diversity and inclusion objectives.On the current version of the page, this paragraph is completely gone.A short section of the page dedicated to employee training has also lost any mention of Diversity and Inclusion training since January.The page as it appeared on January 25The page as it appears todayOn another page detailing its Five Pillars of Purpose, Ziff Davis lists Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as one of these pillars. An archived version of this page from January describes this pillar as the companys intent to reinforce our diverse workforce, reflect our diverse audiences, and expand upon our inclusive culture.According to the current description, the company must ensure we avail ourselves of the best talent in the marketplace, to hire top employees and address the needs of a large and diverse customer base.Ziff Davis has also made changes to its Community page, which talks about volunteering and donations to non-profit organizations. Since January, the company has fully removed paragraphs about its partnership with the Black Game Developer Fund, as well as its pro bono ad campaigns for NAACP and Sandy Hook Promise. (Sandy Hook Promise is still mentioned as one of the recipients for approximately $1.3 million in ad space via our Employee Resource Groups.)The company has also removed mention of the $10 million it has deposited in Black-owned banks, to help the institutions originate loans that foster economic opportunity within underserved Black communities, according to the archived version of the page.A section of the community page as it appeared on January 19The same section as it appears todayThe current community page also no longer lists Ziff Davis CEO Vivek Shah as a part of CEOs for Gun Safety, which the archived page describes as a coalition of CEOs who believe gun violence in the U.S. is not inevitable and are urging elected officials to help prevent it. CEOs for Gun Safetys list of signatories still lists Shah as of February.Internal messages in a company-wide group chat about diversity obtained by 404 Media, however, show the company claiming no change to its commitment to DEI.One message, for example, encouraged employees to Celebrate Black History Month with [employee resource group] Black@ZD, and invited them to a series of enriching events that celebrate our achievements, honor our history, and strengthen our community at Ziff Davis, as we explore this year's theme of African Americans and Labor.Another message from a member of the companys DEI council said, DEI isnt just a statement at ZD, its part of who we are and how we operatethe impact of our work speaks louder than any headline or inclusion on a list could. In my humble opinion, I dont believe that we need to shout it from the rooftops because our actions consistently reflect our values.Multiple employees in the group chat asked whether Ziff Daviss approach to DEI was changing based on President Trumps executive orders about it. On Wednesday morning, the companys CEO Vivek Shah posted a video about DEI and environmental sustainability to a company Facebook group.Our commitment to both is not changing, Shah says in the video, which 404 Media viewed. Simply put, DEI at Ziff Davis helps us drive the best possible business outcomesWe must ensure that everyone understands what DEI and ESG [environmental, social, and governance] mean at our company. Ive asked our teams to ensure that were clear in our language.Ziff Davis did not respond to 404 Media's request for comment.In the last yearand increasingly since Trumps election and executive order demanding federal agencies scrub their websites of mentions of diversity, equity and inclusionmultiple organizations and companies including Meta, Target, Google, and the Smithsonian Institution have rolled back or ended their diversity targets and programs. The Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control, and Food and Drug Administration all removed webpages and data related to adolescent health and HIV. Some of those pages are now back online after a judge ordered that they return to their previous statebut now, a note at the top of the pages says, Any information on this page promoting gender ideology is extremely inaccurate, and disconnected from the immutable biological reality that there are two sexes, male and female.Its scary enough when a Walmart or Hobby Lobby caters to the right, but when a massive media company starts complying in advance with Orwellian Newspeak the potential ripple effects feel extra scary, the employee who spoke to 404 Media said.

Public opinion pollster Gallup has just released its most recent data about LGBTQ+ Americans. Gallups latest poll shows the LGBTQ+ community is growing, now at9.3%up nearly two points from 2023. That number has doubled since 2020 and is six points higher than in 2012 when Gallup first began tracking this data. These results reflect the telephone responses of 14,000 participants. Gallups data shows generational differences in LGBTQ+ identification:23% of Gen Zrespondents identify as LGBTQ+, followed by14% of Millennials,5% of Gen X,3% of Boomers and1.8% of the Silent Generation.Among LGBTQ+ respondents,56% identified as bisexual,21% as gay,14.6% as lesbian, and13.9% as transgender. Less than1% identified as queer, whilepansexual and asexual individuals each made up around 1%. Source: GallupOther key differentiators included gender, with 10% of women respondents versus 6% of men identifying as LGBTQ+. Location also shows a difference in data, with those living in cities (11%) more likely to identify as LGBTQ+ than those living in more rural areas (7%). For a full breakdown of the polling, visit gallup.com.The post Gallup: 9.3% of Americans now identify as LGBTQ+ appeared first on News Is Out.

Brittney Griner has withdrawn from a cannabis convention in Maryland after finding an ominous note in her hotel room.The WNBA star cancelled her speech at the Women Grow Leadership Summit on Monday after finding a piece of duct tape left in the entrance to her hotel room at the Gaylord National containing the words Gay Baby Jail." The Prince Georges County Police Department told The Advocate that it "was made aware by Gaylord National Resort staff of a piece of tape with writing on it located in a guests room," and that it does not currently believe that the note was a targeted threat."Detectives have learned the phrase 'gay baby jail' is commonly used as a video game reference. At the time the tape was located, a large convention was taking place at the Gaylord which attracts thousands of people, many with an interest in anime as well as video game enthusiasts. At this time, detectives have uncovered no link to or threat against the guest who located the tape. The department said that "detectives are working to determine who placed the piece of tape, when it was done and the intention behind it" and encouraged anyone with information to contact them. Griner was arrested in Russia in February 2022, for having a trace amount of cannabis oil in a vape cartridge on her when she traveled to Moscow to play with a local team during the WNBA's off-season. She was tried on drug charges, convicted, and sentenced to nine years in prison. Griner was freed from a labor camp on December 8, 2022, after intense negotiations by the Biden administration. Women Grow CEO Chanda Macias told Marijuana Moment she "wholeheartedly" supports Griner withdrawing from the conference to prioritize her safety. "We are actively working with the venue and authorities to investigate how this happened and hold those responsible accountable," Macias said. "The safety of every woman at this conference remains our top priority. Women Grow was founded on the belief that women should be able to lead without fear or intimidation. Our commitment to empowering women in cannabis is stronger than ever. We will not be silenced. We will continue on.Griner, who has said she wont play overseas again unless its in the Olympics, was part of the U.S. women's basketball team that won the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She recently signed a one-year contract with the Atlanta Dream after 11 years with the Phoenix Mercury.The Advocate has reached out to the Gaylord National, Women Grow Leadership Summit, and a representative of Griner for additional comment.

This undated photo provided by Hostage's Family Forum shows Israeli hostage Oded Lifshitz who was abducted and brought to Gaza on Oct. 7, 2023. (Hostage's Family Forum via AP)2025-02-20T09:30:13Z JERUSALEM (AP) The bodies of four Israelis taken captive by Hamas, including those said to be of the last female and child hostages in Gaza, were released Thursday, bringing to 28 the number of captives freed since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began on Jan. 19. The bodies returned to Israel are presumed to include Shiri Bibas and her two sons, Ariel and Kfir, whose plight has captivated Israelis since they were taken during Hamas deadly attack on Oct. 7, 2023. The body of one of the oldest hostages held was also returned, his family confirmed Thursday. The remains of all four still await formal identificationIn the first phase of the ceasefire deal, a total of 33 hostages in Gaza eight of whom are dead are supposed to be freed in exchange for almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Five Thai citizens who were working in Israel on the day of the attack were freed last month as part of a separate deal. Hamas-led militants took 251 hostages during their Oct. 7, 2023, attack that launched the war in Gaza. More than 60 hostages remain in Gaza, although about half are believed to be dead. The others were released, rescued, or their bodies recovered. Israels military campaign has killed over 48,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which does not say how many were fighters but says more than half were women or children.Heres a look at the hostages returned so far: Shiri, Ariel and Kfir BibasThe bodies said to be of Shiri Bibas and her two sons, Ariel and Kfir Bibas, were returned Thursday. They were abducted along with Shiris husband, Yarden, from Kibbutz Nir Oz on Oct. 7, 2023. Hamas said the three were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Yarden Bibas was released earlier this month during the ceasefire deal. A video capturing their abduction showed a terrified Shiri Bibas swaddling her two redheaded sons in a blanket and being carried away by militants. The footage ricocheted around the world in the hours after the attack began.Ariel was 4 years old at the time of the attack and his brother, Kfir, was 9 months old, making him the youngest captive taken by Hamas. Ariel Bibas loved Batman and family photos showed the four Bibases dressed as the character. Kfir, the infant with red hair and a toothless smile, became a symbol across Israel for the feelings of helplessness and anger over the hostages captivity.Oded Lifshitz, 84The body of Oded Lifshitz, one of the oldest hostages held by the militants, was returned Thursday, his family confirmed in a statement hours after the exchange. He was taken captive from his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz, along with his wife, Yocheved Lifshitz, who was freed during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023. Oded Lifshitz was shot in the hand in the attack. In their Thursday statement after his release, his family said they had hoped and prayed so much for a different outcome.Now we can mourn the husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who has been missing from us since October 7, they said. Our familys healing process will begin now and will not end until the last hostage is returned. Oded and Yocheved Lifshitz are among the founders of Nir Oz. Oded, a journalist, campaigned for the recognition of Palestinian rights and peace between Arabs and Jews. In retirement, he drove to the Erez border crossing on the northern edge of the Gaza Strip once a week to ferry Palestinians to medical appointments in Israel as part of a group called On the Way to Recovery.Oded took pride in his work helping the traditionally nomadic Bedouin people of the Negev Desert, his daughter told The Associated Press, describing a case that went to Israels High Court and resulted in the return of some of their land.Sagui Dekel Chen, 36An Israeli-American, Chen was working outside on his pet project, bus conversions, when militants stormed his kibbutz. He instructed his wife, Avital, to hide in the safe room with their two daughters. Chen, one of the first people to raise alarm of the infiltration on the kibbutz, was taken captive.Avital was seven months pregnant at the time of the attack; she gave birth to a third daughter, Shachar Mazal, in December 2023.Chen is an avid tennis player who co-founded an arts center for young people in southern Israel, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an advocacy group representing the families of hostages, Iair Horn, 46Horn is an Israel-Argentinian who was taken captive along with his brother, Eitan Horn, who was staying with him at the time. Eitan Horn remains in captivity and his name is not on the list of hostages to be released during the ceasefires first phase. Iair Horn managed the kibbutz pub and is a fan of the local soccer team in Beer Sheba, according to the hostages forum. Friends gathered at the kibbutz pub on Nir Oz to watch Horns release from captivity and to toast his return, according to Israeli media. Alexander (Sasha) Troufanov, 29Sasha Trufanov, an Israeli-Russian, was taken hostage along with three members of his family: grandmother Irena Tati, mother Yelena (Lena) and girlfriend Sapir Cohen. His father, Vitaly Trufanov, was killed on Oct. 7, 2023. The rest of his family was freed during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023.Sasha Troufanov works as an engineer for Amazon, according to the hostages forum. His family immigrated to Israel from the Soviet Union 25 years ago.He was believed to be held by Palestinian Islamic Jihad, another militant group in Gaza, which has released multiple videos of him in captivity, including one just hours before his release. Eli Sharabi, 52Eli Sharabi was taken captive by the militants from Kibbutz Beeri, a communal farm that was one of the hardest hit in the Hamas attack. His British-born wife, Lianne, and their teenage daughters, Noiya and Yahel, were killed by militants while hiding in their safe room. His brother, Yossi Sharabi, who lived next door, was killed in captivity. Hamas militants are holding his body, according to the Hostages Forum.Eli Sharabis home bore marks from the attack months later. AP journalists saw bullet holes in the walls and the shattered oven and TV screens. Nearby homes were torched by militants and their roofs blasted off during fighting on Oct. 7.Ohad Ben Ami, 56Ohad Ben Ami, a father to three, was taken captive with his wife, Raz, from Kibbutz Beeri, where he was an accountant. Raz Ben Ami was released during the weeklong ceasefire in November 2023.The hostages forum described Ohad Ben Ami as a passionate nature enthusiast and the cornerstone of his family.Or Levy, 34Or Levy was pulled out by the militants from a bomb shelter near the Nova music festival in southern Israel. His wife, Einav Levy, was killed during the attack. Their son Almog, now 3, has been in the care of relatives since the assault. Levy was taken captive alongside American-Israeli Hersh Goldberg-Polin as well as two other hostages Eliya Cohen and Alon Ohel. Goldberg-Polin, whose parents staged a high-profile campaign for his release, was killed in Hamas captivity. Or Levy is from the city of Rishon Lezion, where he worked as a computer programmer for a startup. Yarden Bibas, 35The release of Yarden Bibas dimmed hopes that his wife and children were still alive in Gaza. Hamas has claimed that the three were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Israel has not confirmed that, but a military spokesperson said last month that the government was extremely concerned about their welfare.Yarden Bibas was taken from Kibbutz Nir Oz on Oct. 7. Photos from the abduction show him wounded, bleeding from the head.Keith Siegel, 65Keith Siegel, from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, was abducted with his wife, Aviva Siegel, from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, a communal farming village heavily damaged by the attack. She was freed during the November 2023 ceasefire deal, and has campaigned across the world for the release of her husband and other hostages.Aviva Siegel said that she was held hostage with her husband during her 51 days in captivity. She said she took comfort from having her husband by her side as they were moved from tunnel to tunnel, the two given almost no food or water. Her parting words to him were, Be strong for me.Ofer Kalderon, 54Ofer Kalderon, a French-Israeli hostage, was taken captive from Kibbutz Nir Oz. His teenage children, Sahar and Erez, were also abducted, but they were freed during the weeklong ceasefire in 2023.Arbel Yehoud, 29Arbel Yehoud was taken hostage with her boyfriend, Ariel Cunio, from Kibbutz Nir Oz. A third-generation resident of the kibbutz, she loves science and space, and her friends held a public star gazing to mark her birthday in captivity.Her brother, Dolev Yehoud, was killed on Oct. 7. Agam Berger, 20In videos of Agam Bergers abduction, her face is covered in blood, though it unclear if it is from her own wound or those of other soldiers.Berger is a violin player from a suburb of Tel Aviv who enlisted in the army just two months before the attack.Gadi Moses, 80Gadi Moses was one of the oldest hostages who remained in captivity in Gaza. He was taken from his home on Kibbutz Nir Oz, one of the communities hardest-hit in the Hamas-led attack. The hostages forum described Moses as an expert agronomist who lectured on agriculture and helped maintain the kibbutzs community vegetable garden. Moses partner, Efrat, was killed during the attack. Watchara Sriaoun, 33In the Oct. 7 attack, militants overran the compound where agricultural workers lived on Kibbutz Nir Oz. Out of the 16 Thai workers living there, 11 were killed and five, including Watchara Sriaoun, were abducted. They were among at least 31 Thai workers taken in the assault. In the November 2023 ceasefire, 23 were released in a deal negotiated between Thailand and Hamas, with assistance from Qatar and Iran.Sathian Suwannakham, 35Sathian Suwannakham was also taken from Nir Oz. The kibbutz has continued to advocate for the release of the Thai workers by posting regularly about them on social media, in addition to the Israeli hostages. Surasak Rumnao, 32Surasak Rumnao was abducted from the town of Yesha, located near the southern Gaza Strip. His mother, Khammee Lamnao, said the Thai Embassy in Israel called her to let her know her son would be released.Pongsak Thaenna, 36 Pongsak Thaenna was also taken from the town of Yesha. Thais make up the largest group of foreigners held in Gaza. In the early days after the Oct. 7 attack, then-Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in phone conversations to assist the Thai hostages.Bannawat Saethao, 27Bannawat Saethao was also abducted from the town of Yesha. Liri Albag, 19Liri Albag, who was among those abducted from the Nahal Oz military base, was featured in a video Hamas released in early January, filmed under duress. Her family said the video was difficult to watch because of Albags clear emotional distress. They were particularly active in the protest movement pushing for a deal with Hamas to bring the hostages home.Liri, if youre hearing us, tell the others that all the families are moving heaven and earth and want their children home, and we will fight until all hostages are returned, her father said in a statement after the video was released.Karina Ariev, 20Karina Ariev was also taken from Nahal Oz.Just before she was abducted, she she sent a message to her family, saying: If I dont live, take care of mom and dad all their lives. Dont give up, live, according to Israeli media. Her family said she loves to cook, sing, dance and write poetry.Daniella Gilboa, 20Also taken from Nahal Oz, Daniella Gilboa was originally named Danielle. Her parents changed it after she was taken captive, in line with a Jewish tradition that is believed to bring Gods protection.Gilboa, from Petah Tikva, a suburb of Tel Aviv, played piano and studied music in high school. She dreams of being a singer, according to Israeli media.Naama Levy, 20The footage from Naama Levys abduction, in which she is wearing gray sweatpants covered in blood, was shown around the world. Levy, among those taken from Nahal Oz, is a triathlete. When she was younger, she participated in the Hands of Peace delegation, which brings together Americans, Israelis and Palestinians to work on coexistence.Romi Gonen, 24Romi Gonen was taken from the Nova music festival in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. She spoke to her family for nearly five hours as militants marauded through the festival grounds. She told them that roads clogged with abandoned cars made escape impossible and that she would seek shelter in some bushes. Her father, Eitan Goren, said she survived in part by learning Arabic, as it was the only way to communicate with her captors. I just enjoy being with her even in silence, touching, hugging, watching her, he said, a week after her release. I missed it so much.Emily Damari, 28Emily Damari is a British-Israeli citizen abducted from her apartment on Kibbutz Kfar Aza. She lived in a small apartment in a neighborhood for young adults, the closest part of the kibbutz to Gaza. Militants broke through the border fence of the kibbutz and ransacked the neighborhood.The day after her release, Emilys mother, Mandy, said her daughter was in high spirits and on the road to recovery.Doron Steinbrecher, 31Doron Steinbrecher is a veterinary nurse who loves animals, and a neighbor to Damari in Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Steinbrecher holds both Israeli and Romanian citizenship. Steinbrecher was featured in a video released by Hamas in January 2024, along with two female Israeli soldiers. Her brother said the video gave them hope that she was alive but sparked concern because she looked tired, weak and gaunt.___Associated Press writer Haruka Nega in Bangkok, Thailand, contributed to this report.___Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg testifies to a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Committee hearing, May 2, 2024, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)2025-02-20T14:07:45Z TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) Some believe the Democratic Partys next savior is living here, huddled with family, in the relative obscurity of a small city on the shores of Lake Michigan.Pete Buttigieg has yet to decide if thats a responsibility he wants.For now, Buttigieg, the 43-year-old former U.S. transportation secretary, is discussing his future with party officials, labor leaders and top strategists. He must decide soon whether he wants to return to the national spotlight as a candidate in Michigans U.S. Senate race or step aside to instead seek a much bigger role as his partys next presidential nominee.Prominent allies believe Buttigieg cannot feasibly do both, even as others raise the comparison to Barack Obama, who was elected president just four years after becoming a U.S. senator.I dont think you can run for Senate in 2026 and run for president in 2028 ... I would think that would be very, very hard, said Obamas former chief strategist David Axelrod, who met briefly with Buttigieg last week ahead of a joint appearance at the University of Chicago. The Democratic Party may be hurting more at this moment than it was two decades ago, when voters turned to that first-term senator from Illinois over more established candidates to lead their comeback from the Bush years. Indeed, Democrats, demoralized and afraid, are crying out for strong new leadership with President Donald Trump and his allies, notably Elon Musk, racing to transform Washington while gutting key federal agencies. Buttigieg has the tools to lead his party on a national scale if he wants. More than four years after the little-known mayor outperformed far more experienced Democrats in the Iowa presidential caucuses, he remains one of the partys best communicators, boasting a massive social media following, a national donor network and a Midwestern charm he displays in Fox News Channel interviews and smaller settings alike. More than anything, allies say, Buttigiegs decision will be guided by the impact on his young family at a difficult cultural moment in Trumps America. The Republican president has targeted LGBTQ+ initiatives and inclusion programs. Buttigieg is the openly gay father of 3-year-old twins. Axelrod complimented Buttigieg as one of the most talented people in the party.He would be a frontline candidate in any race that he ran, Axelrod said. Life in the Cherry Capital of the World Buttigieg has lowered his profile since leaving the Biden administration last month. He hasnt done any media interviews. He declined to speak to The Associated Press for this story. And he has challenged Trump only with a handful of social media posts, notably pushing back on the Republican presidents blaming of diversity hiring for the deadly midair collision at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.But based on the response, Democrats like what he has to say. His posts on X frequently garner millions of views. And just over a week after joining the newer social media platform Bluesky, he has quickly become one of its most-followed Democrats. Buttigieg, a former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, has been a more visible presence around his new home of Traverse City, a lakeside resort town that calls itself the Cherry Capital of the World. His husband, Chasten Buttigieg, grew up in Traverse City.Chasten actually was a speaker at our last Obama dinner; he sat at my table, said Lauren Flynn, a local county commissioner. I always get text messages from folks saying, Oh, my gosh, I saw Pete shopping downtown or running by the bay.Its much the same at the local coffee shop, Higher Grounds Trading Co., which features a pride flag out front and progressive messages on the walls. One barista described the shop as a low-profile spot where most customers dont disturb the towns highest-profile resident.Hes been coming in more frequently, barista Sydney Hall said recently, noting shed served Buttigieg and his husband earlier that day.The coffee shop may be a welcoming environment, but some warn of safety concerns for members of the LGBTQ+ community and other prominent Democrats in the current political environment. Aaron Wright, president of the Traverse City-based Up North Pride, praised Buttigieg and his family for sacrificing their physical safety for the betterment of their local area, the state and society. He noted Traverse City is just 20 minutes from where members of a local militia plotted to kidnap Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.Thats the No. 1 thing that I would imagine theyre considering is the physical safety of being where they are, as the people that they are, because people are drinking out of the firehose of misinformation and disinformation, Wright said. Malignant groups that want to see people like me suffer.Wrights husband, Trenton Lee, chair of the local Democratic Party, said his political opponents in local campaigns often focus on his sexuality rather than policies. Pete offers that challenge to the other side, where if you took out his sexual orientation, the way hes able to articulate issues and then actually work on them, hes a shoo-in for whatever he runs for, Lee said. It forces them to be like, The only issue I have is that hes gay.Buttigieg is already facing allegations from some critics that he moved to the state solely to help his political career.Its not just that he carpet-bagged to Michigan a few years ago after being the mayor of South Bend. Its that he did it in the most unrelatable enclave in the entire state, said Jason Roe, a Republican strategist and former executive director of the state party.Traverse City, Roe said, is an elite bubble that only underscores an elitism that was one of the problems in the Democratic Party. Roe added that hell be surprised if Buttigieg enters the race, because if he runs and loses, he could be done.A plum opportunity in a key stateThere may be no better staging ground for an ambitious Democrat in 2025 than Michigan.Democratic Sen. Gary Peters unexpected retirement created a rare Senate vacancy ahead of next years midterms. A Republican hasnt been elected to the U.S. Senate in Michigan this century, although Mike Rogers came within less than 1 percentage point last fall and is planning to run again.Michigan also offers a home state advantage to any prospective presidential candidate in 2028. The state is expected to host one of the nations opening presidential primaries. And in the general election, Michigan will be a premier swing state. Buttigieg is leaning on powerful allies to help make his decision.Longtime Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow, who retired in January and considers Buttigieg a close friend, attended his twins birthday party and visited him at home recently. She said she doesnt expect to endorse in the Senate primary, but she told him directly hed be a very strong candidate. If he announced now, hed be the front-runner, Stabenow told the AP. Hes a Midwesterner, and he talks like a Midwesterner. Hes somebody I think people really relate to. Stabenow said she dares Buttigiegs opponents to try to use his limited time in Michigan as a political weapon. We have thousands of people that marry into Michigan every year, Stabenow said. We have a great (former) governor who was born in Canada. If thats the best theyve got, great.Buttigieg has recently spoken with labor leaders across Michigan and met with Whitmer and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, a Democrat expected to enter the Senate race soon. Veteran Democratic strategist Lis Smith, a key adviser on Buttigiegs 2020 presidential campaign and a close ally, has also worked with McMorrow in the past.Exploring his appeal beyond MichiganBut Buttigieg is also looking beyond Michigan. Former Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H., who left Congress in January, said she speaks to Buttigieg semi-regularly and recently encouraged him to run for the Senate. Like other Buttigieg allies, she said his young family remains his chief concern as he navigates his options.Hes hugely talented, Kuster said. And he has a tremendous ability to communicate and communicate with the very people that were missing: the middle of the country, small towns. Whether he runs for the Senate or not, Kuster said, there are plenty of New Hampshire Democrats whod welcome him back to the states high-profile presidential primary in 2028. Buttigieg finished second in New Hampshire during his underdog 2020 presidential bid. Kuster pointed to Obama as an example of someone who ran for the Senate and then president a few years later. These are all of the things he and his team are navigating, Kuster said. He obviously has a ton of choices. ___Peoples reported from New York. JOEY CAPPELLETTI Cappelletti covers politics and state government for The Associated Press in Michigan. He is based in Lansing. twitter mailto

WNBA star Brittney Griner has withdrawn from her scheduled appearance at the Women Grow Leadership Summit in Maryland after discovering a troubling note in her hotel room. Griner, who was set to speak at the event on Monday, canceled her speech after finding a piece of duct tape in the entrance to her hotel room at the Gaylord National Resort. The tape bore the words Gay Baby JailSource

Actor Matt Bomer has announced that production on the first season of his new sitcom, Mid-Century Modern, has wrapped. The series, described as a gay-themed comedy in the spirit of The Golden Girls, is set to make its debut on Hulu next month. Bomer, known for his role in Fellow Travelers, took to Instagram to share the news with fans, posting, Thats a wrap on season one of Mid-Century Modern.Source

Linda McMahon, President Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Education, arrives for a hearing of the Health, Education, and Labor Committee on her nomination, Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)2025-02-20T15:42:08Z WASHINGTON (AP) A Senate committee voted Thursday to advance Linda McMahons nomination to serve as President Donald Trumps education secretary, bringing her closer to leading an agency the Republican president wants to shut down.The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions voted 12-11 along party lines to send her nomination to be considered by the full Senate.At her confirmation hearing, McMahon said she wants to reorient the Education Department. Since his campaign, Trump has called for the department to be abolished, but McMahon acknowledged that only Congress could shut it down completely.Wed like to make sure that we are presenting a plan that I think our senators could get on board with, she said.Pressed on the fate of the agencys core initiatives, McMahon said Trump wants them to be more efficient but isnt out to defund them. She suggested certain roles could be moved to other agencies, saying the departments civil rights arm could go to the Justice Department. She pledged to preserve federal Title I money for low-income schools, Pell grants for low-income college students and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, all of which were created by Congress. At the same time, McMahon promised to cut off federal money from schools that defy Trumps orders against transgender athletes in womens sports, campus antisemitism and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives across the country. Democrats were alarmed by McMahons response to questions about Trumps order to ban DEI programs in schools. Asked if African American history classes could trigger a loss of federal money, McMahon said she wasnt certain and needed to look into it.McMahon, a billionaire Trump ally and former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, brings less experience in education than many others in the role. She was a member of the Connecticut board of education for about a year in 2009, and shes a longtime trustee at Sacred Heart University. She left the WWE in 2009 and led two unsuccessful bids for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. Republicans were mostly unified behind McMahon at the hearing, though Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska raised concerns that Trump would ask McMahon to overstep her authority and interfere with local control of schools.The White House is considering an order that would direct the education secretary to dismantle the Education Department while urging Congress to fully abolish it. Even without the order, the Trump administration has fired or suspended more than 100 Education Department employees. Dozens of contracts have been canceled by Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency.The latest cuts, announced late Wednesday, involve grants totaling $226 million for a program designed to help schools improve outcomes and the quality of instruction, particularly for students with the greatest need. An Education Department news release said the program has been promoting race-based discrimination and gender identity ideology. ___The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find the APs standards for working with philanthropies, a a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. COLLIN BINKLEY Binkley covers the U.S. Education Department and federal education policy for The Associated Press, along with a wide range of issues from K-12 through higher education. twitter mailto RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

FILE New York mayor Eric Adams, right, and New York governor Kathy Hochul attend a ceremony in honor of the New York Liberty's WNBA championship at City Hall in New York, Oct. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)2025-02-20T18:45:02Z NEW YORK (AP) Gov. Kathy Hochul wont immediately remove New York City Mayor Eric Adams from office, but will instead push for increased oversight of City Hall as he faces intense scrutiny over his relationship with the Trump administration. Hochul will announce Thursday that she has, for now, decided against removing Adams from office, according to three people familiar with the governors plan who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to disclose its details.The decision came after she solicited opinions this week from a roster of New York political figures over questions about whether Adams could independently govern after the Justice Department moved to drop his corruption case so he could help with Republican President Donald Trumps immigration agenda. Rather than remove Adams, Hochul plans to propose legislation that would require City Hall to operate within new guardrails. Two of the sources familiar with the strategy said the proposals include establishing a new deputy inspector focused on New York City, a fund for the citys comptroller, public advocate and council speaker to launch lawsuits against the federal government, and more money for the state comptroller to investigate the citys finances. Hochul a centrist Democrat, as is Adams has faced questions about the mayors future since his indictment in September on bribery and other charges. He has pleaded not guilty and said at a court hearing Wednesday that he hadnt committed a crime. Hochul has been reluctant to oust him, arguing that doing so would be undemocratic, while thrusting the city into a complex, court-like removal process that has never been used before against a sitting mayor of the countrys most populous city. But after four of Adams top deputies quit on Monday, the governor said she had serious questions about the long-term future of this mayoral administration. The deputies resigned after an extraordinary series of developments in Adams federal criminal case.First, Justice Department leaders ordered prosecutors to drop it, saying it was impeding the mayors ability to help with the Trump administrations immigration enforcement push.Then, some prosecutors and supervisors resigned rather than follow what they saw as an improper order, and the acting top prosecutor in Manhattan said Adams lawyers had offered to exchange his cooperation on immigration for a dismissal of his case. The mayor and his lead lawyer said they did no such thing.Then, after some Justice Department figures finally filed paperwork to get the case dismissed, a judge summoned Adams and everyone else involved to court Wednesday to discuss the matter. The judge hasnt ruled yet on the governments request to close out the case.Adams has been set to go on trial in April on charges of taking illegal campaign contributions and getting breaks on travel in exchange for doing favors for the Turkish government. In one episode, his indictment alleges, the then-mayor-elect pushed fire officials to let a Turkish consular building open without passing a fire inspection.Adams has said there was nothing improper about his trips. He has characterized any help he provided to Turkish officials in dealing with the diplomatic building as just the routine work of an elected official helping people navigate bureaucracy. JAKE OFFENHARTZ Offenhartz is a general assignment reporter in the New York City bureau of The Associated Press. twitter mailto

Today, authors and illustrators of books in the Supreme Court case Mahmoud v. Taylor released a statement in support of inclusive books, and in support of the school district including their books in curriculum. The case was brought by a group of parents who sued the Montgomery County, Maryland, school district for the right to [...]The post Fighting Attacks on Inclusive Books at the Supreme Court first appeared on GLAAD.

In a first look at an exclusive clip from Bravos Southern Hospitality,cast member Lake Rucker talks about struggling to come out to her family specifically to her father. We have a very close relationship and I dont want to lose that relationship, she said. My family is very successful in a lot of different [...]The post WATCH: Lake Rucker Talks Coming Out In Exclusive Southern Hospitality Clip: Why Cant We Just Love Who We Love? first appeared on GLAAD.

Joe Rogan has been dominating the world of podcasts for years, but now a left-leaning news podcast has finally dethroned him.The MeidasTouch Podcast, a show that is frequently critical of President Donald Trump, knocked The Joe Rogan Experience from its number one spot, according to Newsweek. The number of people downloading Rogans podcast decreased by 32 percent from the previous month, with the show being played 48.6 million times. Conservative podcasts like The Joe Rogan Experience and The Ben Shapiro Show have claimed a huge listener base, but now The MeidasTouch Podcast has taken that top spot, gardening 56 million downloads and plays, which represents a 101 percent increase in February.What is the MeidasTouch Podcast about? (@) The MeidasTouch Podcast is a left-leaning political news show that combines brotherly love, comedy, news coverage, and deep discussions about supporting our democracy and is the go-to destination for top political leaders who view the podcast as a pivotal stop for their interviews, according to their website. The show covers major political news stories and is openly critical of Trump and his administration, with recent episodes covering Trumps deteriorating mental status, Fox news spiraling as Trump gets weaker and more pathetic each day, and Trump threatening Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The hosts also conduct in-depth interviews with Democratic politicians, including Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), who was on their latest episode.Who are the hosts?MeidasTouch was founded by brothers Ben, Brett and Jordy Meiselas and is part of the MeidasTouch media network that started as a liberal political action committee in 2020 before their social media accounts gained popularity.Ben is a lawyer who represented former NFL player Colin Kaepernick after the quarterback took a knee in support of unarmed Black and brown people who were killed by police. It was this experience that helped inspire the creation of the MeidasTouch Network.Brett is a two-time Emmy winning video editor who once worked as the web editor for The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and Jordy is an award-winning advertising executive.Why it mattersConservatives have a large online ecosystem of podcasts, YouTube channels, and social media accounts to support and publicize candidates and policies. During the presidential election, Trump went on a handful of popular right-wing podcasts that UFC CEO and longtime friend of the presidents Dana White thanked for contributing to Trump getting elected."I want to thank the NELK Boys, Adin Ross, Theo Von, Bussin With The Boys, and last but not least, the mighty and powerful Joe Rogan, he sad, Newsweek reports. But now that a left-leaning podcast has knocked Joe Rogan from the top podcast spot, Democrats may have a similar venue to reach millions of potential voters.What did MSNBC host Stephanie Ruhle say about the podcast?When MSNBC host Stephanie Ruhle found out that the MeidasTouch Podcast had beaten out The Joe Rogan Experience to be the number one podcast in the U.S., she and co-host Joel Payne talked about this being a political shift and that the podcast hosts are anti-Trump guys who crank it out all day, every day, Mediaite reports.Ruhle continued, People often say that Democrats dont know how to hit. These guys are hitters!Can you watch it on YouTubeYou can listen to the podcast on YouTube when new episodes are released every Tuesday and Friday morning at 5 a.m. ET/2 a.m. PT. They also release bite-sized YouTube videos hosted by the networks other contributors and YouTube shorts where hosts provide quick updates and news reports. Where can you subscribe to the podcast?You can subscribe to the podcast on all the major podcast websites and apps, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Audible, and Amazon Music.If you want access to the episodes early as well as perks like voting on future show topics and access to their Discord, you can join the MeidasTouch Podcast Patreon.

Great news for the gays Melanie Lynskey is reuniting with Natasha Lyonne for season two of Poker Face!The Peacock series, which premiered in 2023, stars Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a casino waitress with an uncanny ability to tell when somebody is lying. After this leads to her figuring out too much about unsavory dealings at her job, she flees the state and gets entangled in a different murder mystery in each episode.The case-of-the-week format allowed for a revolving door of impressive guest stars in season one, including Tim Meadows, Ellen Barkin, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Stephanie Hsu, Rhea Perlman, and frequent Lyonne collaborators Clea DuVall and Chlo Sevigny.The parade of familiar faces linking up with Charlie Cale for season two is just as exciting, although the announcement of Lynskey stepping up to the plate is of particular interest to sapphic fans.The two first shared the screen in the 1999 conversion camp rom com, But Im a Cheerleader. Lyonne played the titular cheerleader who falls for DuValls unapologetic edgy bad girl character, while Lynskey took on the role of the goody two shoes none of them could trust.This wont be the first time Lyonne and Lynskey have reunited since that iconic entry into queer cinema. They also starred alongside DuVall in her pre-Happiest Season directorial debut, The Intervention.Details about what role the Yellowjackets star will be tackling in Poker Face are still under wraps. But shes certainly in good company. Her husband, Jason Ritter, was also announced as an upcoming guest star, along with Alia Shawkat, Carol Kane, and David Krumholtz.The list of season two guest stars who had previously been announced include Cynthia Erivo, Margo Martindale, Gaby Hoffman, Sherry Cola, Patti Harrison, Katie Holmes, Giancarlo Esposito, Kumail Nanjiani, Kevin Corrigan, Ben Marshall, Kathrine Narducci, BJ Novak, John Mulaney, Ego Nwodim, Sam Richardson, Awkwafina, Corey Hawkins, Simon Rex, Method Man, GaTa, Haley Joel Osment, John Cho, and Justin Theroux.Unfortunately, were also still waiting on word of a premiere date, but when it arrives, we will obviously be seated!

In this photo reviewed by U.S. military officials, the Office of Military Commissions building used for Periodic Review Board hearings stands, on April 18, 2019, in Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Cuba. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)2025-02-20T20:29:02Z JERUSALEM (AP) Israeli police on Thursday reported a series of explosions on buses in central Israel in what they said appeared to be a militant attack. No injuries were reported.Police spokesman Asi Aharoni told Channel 13 TV that explosives were found on two other buses. He called on the public to be alert and report any suspicious objects to authorities.The explosions took place just hours after Hamas released the bodies of four Israeli hostages held in Gaza the first of eight hostages that Israel believes are dead and to be returned during the current phase of the ceasefire. Police rushed forces to the scene in Bat Yam, a Tel Aviv suburb, as they searched for suspects. Police spokesman Haim Sargrof says drivers have scanned all buses and trains, and those scans are complete.We need to determine if a single suspect placed explosives on a number of buses, or if there were multiple suspects, he said. Tzvika Brot, mayor of Bat Yam, said it was a miracle that no one was hurt. He said the buses had finished their routes and were in a parking lot. He said one of the unexploded bombs was being defused in the nearby town of Holon. Sargrof said the explosives matched explosives used in the West Bank, but he declined to elaborate.Israel has repeatedly carried out army raids on suspected Palestinian militants in the West Bank since Hamas Oct. 7 attack. As part of that crackdown, it has greatly restricted entry into Israel for Palestinians from the occupied territory.Since the ceasefire in Gaza took effect on Jan. 19, Israel has been conducting a broad military offensive against Palestinian militants in the West Bank. In the past, militants have entered Israel and carried out shootings and bombings in Israeli cities.

Each February, following the romantic whirlwind of Valentines Day, Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week (ASAW) takes center stage. This week is dedicated to raising awareness and fostering acceptance of aromantic-spectrum identities while celebrating the diversity of experiences within the aro community. While mainstream culture often equates love with romance, ASAW is a powerful reminder that intimacy, connection, and fulfillment can take many different forms. "The aromantic spectrum is an umbrella term for different identities where you feel little to no romantic attraction to other people," Sofie Roos, a licensed sexologist and relationship therapist, and author at Passionerad tells PRIDE. Let's talk about why this week is so vital, especially in a time when queer visibility is in so much danger.What is aromanticism?Aromanticism is a romantic orientation in which a person experiences little to no romantic attraction. While some aromantic individuals may engage in relationships, they do not experience the desire for romance in the way that society typically defines it. Others may feel neutral or even repulsed by romantic interactions."Its common that people being on the aromantic spectrum engage extra much in other types of relationships rather than romantic ones, for example by investing a lot in platonic relationships, or queer platonic relationships.relationships," says Roos.The aromantic spectrum (arospec) includes a variety of identities, such as:Greyromantic: Occasionally or rarely experiencing romantic attraction.Demiromantic: Only experiencing romantic attraction after forming a deep emotional bond.Lithromantic: Feeling romantic attraction but not wanting it reciprocated.Quoiromantic: Having difficulty distinguishing between romantic and non-romantic attraction.Aromanticism exists independently of sexual orientation explains Roos. "A common misunderstanding is that being on the aromantic spectrum is about sexual attraction, but its about romantic attraction, so many people being on the spectrum does still have interest in being sexual, and can get turned on, even though theres combinations of being on the aromantic spectrum and being asexual as well," she says. While some aromantic individuals are also asexual (experiencing little to no sexual attraction), others identify as gay, bisexual, heterosexual, or any other sexual orientation. The diversity within the aromantic community highlights the need for broader discussions about different ways people experience attraction and relationships.Why Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week mattersSociety often romanticizes the idea that a persons life is incomplete without romantic love. This can leave aromantic individuals feeling misunderstood, invalidated, or pressured to pursue relationships that dont align with their identity. ASAW aims to break these assumptions and highlight the legitimacy of aromantic experiences.For many aromantic individuals, growing up means navigating a world that constantly tells them they will "find the right person someday" or "just need to open their heart." These misconceptions can lead to feelings of alienation, self-doubt, or the pressure to force themselves into romantic relationships that dont feel authentic. By increasing awareness and challenging misconceptions, ASAW fosters greater inclusion and understanding, ensuring that aromantic people feel seen and valued.Am *I* aromantic?If you're reading this, there is a good chance you're looking to discover or understand something about yourself. If you suspect that you lie somewhere on this spectrum, Roos says there are some tell tale signs. Romantic relationships in media are unrelatable. "One of the most obvious signs is that youre having a hard time identifying yourself with romantic relationships when you see them in movies, hear about relationships in music, read about them and hear your friends and family talk about what its like to be in love and together with someone romantically," explains Roos. "For you, this feels strange, far away, not appealing or even makes you feel uncomfortable or disgusted. What seems to be the best you can have for others, a relationship with someone you love, just doesn't click for you, and youre not into the idea of it."Differentiating between friendship and love is challenging. "Youre having a hard time telling the difference between platonic love and romantic love, and this often leads to a feeling of confusion where you ask yourself questions such as 'Are we more than friends?' or 'Do I like this person so much I would like to get romantic with them?' and it just feels unclear what romantic love really is," she explains.You've never felt romantic love. "You havent been in love, dont know if you have been in love or have no idea what it feels like, or should feel like. For you, love is a distant feeling that you cant imagine or identify yourself with, something thats a classic sign youre on the aromantic spectrum," she explains.Common myths about aromanticismMany misconceptions about aromanticism still persist, including:"Aromantic and asexual are the same thing." While they often overlap, they are distinct orientations. A person can be aromantic and still experience sexual attraction."Aromantics are just afraid of commitment." Aromantic individuals can and do form deep, meaningful connectionswhether through friendships, queerplatonic relationships (QPRs), or other forms of intimacy."Aromantic people are lonely or missing out." Aromantics can lead deeply fulfilling lives, forming strong social bonds and prioritizing relationships that bring them joy in ways that dont revolve around romance.Challenging these myths is essential in creating a world where people of all orientations feel understood and respected.How to support the aromantic communityWhether youre aromantic yourself, questioning your romantic orientation, or an ally looking to help, there are many ways to support the aromantic community during ASAW and beyond.Educate yourself and others. Understanding aromanticism is a crucial step in fostering inclusivity. Resources like Aromantic-Official, AUREA (Aromantic Spectrum Union for Recognition, Education, and Advocacy), and Aro Worlds provide valuable insights into aro identities and experiences.Challenge amatonormativity, or the societal assumption that everyone desires romantic love and that romantic relationships are superior to all other forms of connection. Recognizing and challenging this mindset can help create a world where friendships, familial bonds, and other forms of relationships are equally celebrated.Respect boundaries and identities. If someone in your life identifies as aromantic, support them by validating their experiences rather than insisting they will "find love someday." Respect their boundaries, whether that means avoiding matchmaking attempts or acknowledging their disinterest in romantic narratives.Support aro representation in media. Aromantic representation in media remains scarce. Seeking out and promoting books, TV shows, and movies that feature aro characters can help normalize these identities. Claudine Arseneaults Aromantic Book Recommendations is a great place to start.Engage with the aromantic community. Many online spaces provide opportunities to connect with the aromantic community, share experiences, and find support. Arocalypse, Aromantic Talk on Facebook, and r/aromantic on Reddit are some great places for aro-spec individuals and allies to engage in discussion.Looking ahead: The future of aro visibilityThe growing recognition of aromanticism is a sign of progress, but there is still work to be done. Greater representation in media, increased advocacy, and widespread education will continue to push for acceptance and understanding. Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week is more than just a celebrationits a call to action to ensure that all identities are recognized and respected.No one should feel pressured to conform to societal expectations of romance. ASAW serves as a reminder that love, in all its forms, is validand that includes the love found in friendships, passions, and self-acceptance.For more resources and ways to get involved, visit AUREA, Aro Worlds, and Carnival of Aros.

During the Trump era, which theoretically started in 2015 when Donald Trump descended down the escalator of Trump Tower, weve undergone what can be best described as rapid societal and morality change. During that time, the media has played a critical role in shaping public perception and reality. And perhaps the person with the best vantage point during this shift is Angelo Carusone, chairman and president of Media Matters.Carusones watchdog role has given him extraordinary insight in covering and deciphering Trump. It is a 24/7 job since the media spigot never turns off. And his work and analysis poke the hornets nest at times.Hes been sued by both Trump and Elon Musk, and a litany of other mostly right-wing parties, because he calls out the lies and misinformation that spews 24/7 from conservative and fringe media. Carusones front-row seat to the perception Donald Trump tries to perpetuate on the public allows him to see things that others don't, including Trump trying to shed his MAGA base.A fascinating example of this disconnect is Trumps evolving aesthetic, Carusone noted during a recent lengthy video call. Historically, his ill-fitting, non-shiny suits projected a working-class appeal, despite their high cost. Recently, however, his suits have become tailored, form-fitted, and made from more luxurious fabrics.To Carusone, this is an indication that Trump now seeks validation from actual elites rather than his working-class base. The shift is an example of Trump severing his connection with his audience, a subtle but significant change that could create an opening for effective counter-messaging.The asymmetry in media consumption, particularly with right-leaning content dominating, is a stark reality. Carusone underscored that right-wing media outlets, bolstered by an extensive infrastructure, are better positioned to harness public frustration and turn it into political capital. With nearly 450 million aggregate subscribers compared to the lefts 68 million on a good day, the imbalance is staggering, he pointed out. The rights ability to immediately craft narratives around policy failures and blame malicious implementation by the so-called deep state allows them to reframe events to their advantage, even when those very failures are the direct result of conservative policies.For example, when farmers lose government support or hospitals lay off workers due to policy changes, the right steps in to promise restoration and deflect blame onto Democrats, regardless of the policys actual origins. This strategic inoculation against legitimate criticism enables them to weaponize public discontent, advocating for more power under the guise of rectifying perceived injustices, Carusone warned. Meanwhile, Democrats often fail to connect these dots for the public, allowing frustration to fester without a clear explanation of causality.Carusone emphasized that the media must take responsibility in connecting these policy effects to their actual causes. When public anger is left unguided, it is easily exploited by authoritarian movements, leading to a reinforcing cycle of misinformation and reactionary politics, he cautioned. The right-wings sophisticated media apparatus ensures that when harm occurs, it is immediately framed in a way that amplifies their own power rather than holding them accountable.Another key issue recently is the Democrats failure to show up, literally and figuratively. Media visibility is paramount in shaping narratives, and Republicans have mastered this aspect, Carusone stated. When a major event unfolds, such as an aviation disaster or an economic downturn in a key industry, right-wing figures are quick to seize the moment, crafting compelling narratives while Democrats lag behind. Carusone pointed to the recent plane and helicopter collision and crash into the Potomac River as an example: Rather than proactively addressing concerns and asserting leadership, Democrats waited for Trump to blame DEI before responding, allowing the narrative to be dictated by the right, Carusone noted. Someone from the party should have been down on the banks of the Potomac, talking about the crash, rather than reacting to how Trump wrongly reacted to it.This failure to engage extends beyond crisis response to a broader issue of economic messaging. Democrats struggle to authentically address economic inequality without alienating their donor base, Carusone said. Unlike Republican donors, who tolerate anti-elite rhetoric as long as it remains abstract, Democratic donors bristle at critiques of wealth, fearing that populist sentiments may target them directly.This hesitancy stifles Democrats ability to speak to the real frustrations of working-class Americans, leaving a vacuum that Trumps brand of populism fills, Carusone explained.Ultimately, Carusone warns against the Democratic tendency to seek a singular hero or investigation to defeat Trump. They must develop a sustained strategy that drives wedges between Trump and his base, highlighting the contradictions in his messaging and policy decisions, he said. This requires a fundamental shift in how Democrats and their media allies engage with the public: They need to prioritize local stories, show up in critical moments, and reframe economic grievances in a way that acknowledges reality without alienating necessary allies.The medias role is not just to report but to contextualize, Carusone concluded. Without this crucial function, public frustration will continue to be misdirected, allowing reactionary forces to consolidate power. If Democrats wish to counteract this trend, they must rethink their engagement strategies, recognizing that in the battle for narrative control, showing up is half the fight.

San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama reacts after a missed a free throw during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls in Chicago, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)2025-02-20T21:33:38Z Victor Wembanyama is one of the faces of the NBA, the star of the San Antonio Spurs and already one of the biggest names in basketball.And his season is likely over, after the Spurs announced Thursday that he has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder.The 7-foot-3 center from France was averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks and 3.7 assists this season. Since blocked shots became an official statistic, only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar nearly a half-century ago finished a season with those numbers or better.Some questions and answers about Wembanyamas situation:What is deep vein thrombosis?By the Mayo Clinics definition, deep vein thrombosis or DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. The Spurs say Wembanyama was diagnosed with DVT in his right shoulder, and doctors will now work to determine how and why that happened before coming up with a plan for treatment.Among the major risks of DVT: Clots breaking loose, traveling through the bloodstream and reaching the lungs. That does not appear to have happened to Wembanyama, at least based on the diagnosis the team provided Thursday. How will Wembanyama be treated?Doctors who spoke Thursday to The Associated Press none of them involved in Wembanyamas treatment said its a virtual certainty that the French star will be prescribed blood-thinning medication to address the clot.The longstanding thinking was that athletes who participate in contact sports like basketball should not play while on blood thinners, or anticoagulants, because of the risk of bleeding. However, an article published Thursday by the American College of Cardiology hours before the news about Wembanyama broke said playing competitive sports may be reasonable for athletes receiving full anticoagulation or partial anticoagulation. What does this mean for the Spurs?In short, its not good. The Spurs are not currently in the playoff picture and faced an uphill fight just to get into the play-in tournament and now will have to finish the season without their best player.San Antonio still has talent: Chris Paul, Harrison Barnes and newly acquired DeAaron Fox are a formidable veteran trio. But everything is built around Wembanyama.And the Spurs will be without their biggest star while also missing the franchises leader. Coach Gregg Popovich had a stroke in November and has been away from the team for nearly the entire season.What does this mean for the NBA?The leagues MVP for each of the last six years has been a player born somewhere other than the U.S. and that streak is likely to extend to seven this season with Canadas Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the stellar Oklahoma City guard, and Serbias Nikola Jokic, the three-time MVP from Denver, expected to be the favorites.But it robs the league of one of its brightest stars for the stretch run.Everything Wembanyama does is huge news in France and in San Antonio, and hes already one of the leagues most popular players. If he and the Spurs had made a playoff run, his star would have only shined brighter. Why cant he win an NBA award now?The league is in its second year of whats commonly called the 65-game rule, which basically means a player has to appear in at least 65 games to be eligible for most end-of-season awards like MVP.It also applies to defensive player of the year, which Wembanyama was favored to win. He has played in only 46 games, meaning he will not be on the NBAs ballot for that trophy when the voting is conducted in April.Wembanyama won rookie of the year last season. If this situation happened then, he still could have won the rookie honor that one doesnt fall under the 65-game-minimum policy.___AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA TIM REYNOLDS Reynolds is an Associated Press sports writer, based in South Florida. twitter mailto RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

This photo provided by Caitlin Mandracchi shows a Scottish Highland bull on the loose in New Milford, Conn., on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025. (Caitlin Mandracchia via AP)2025-02-20T20:06:04Z KENT, Conn. (AP) A Scottish Highland bull is the talk of the town in the rural hills of western Connecticut, where it has been roaming for over a month in the frigid winter weather after escaping from its confines.Local residents have reported sporadic sightings, including a few over the past week, said Lee Sohl, the animal control officer in Kent. It was recently seen just over the town line in New Milford.People keep spotting it and they dont know that people are looking for it, Sohl said in a phone interview Thursday. If somebody calls me about a sighting, then I tell the owner and theyve been doing their best. They run right out and try to get to it. But its hard. Its hard in this weather, and its very scared.The owner, Jo Ann Joray, said there have been people out looking for the bull, but they havent been able to catch it. Photos posted on social media by people who have spotted the bull have drawn a range of comments, from ones expressing sympathy for its plight, to others saying the bull is adorable to one saying it would produce good steaks.Stray farm animals are nothing new in the area. Cows, horses and goats get loose on occasion, Sohl said. Thats just where we live, she said.The bulls story evoked memories of Buddy the beefalo, a bison hybrid who roamed the woods in central Connecticut for months in 2020 and 2021 after escaping on the way to the slaughterhouse. Buddy was eventually caught and moved to a Florida animal sanctuary.Scottish Highland cattle are known as a hardy breed that can live outside all year, according to the Highland Cattle Society in Scotland. Thats good for the Connecticut bull because temperatures have been below freezing for several days. RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

President Donald Trump arrives to speak at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute summit in Miami Beach, Fla., Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)2025-02-20T05:14:14Z WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump marked Black History Month at the White House on Thursday by making an appearance at a celebratory reception with a surprise guest, golf legend Tiger Woods, while calling out other athletes in attendance and marveling at the size of the crowd.Trump also announced he planned to bring Alice Johnson, a prison reform advocate whom he pardoned in 2020, into his administration to work on clemency issues. The White Houses Black History Month reception preserved a tradition, but it comes in the wake of Trump issuing a wide-ranging executive order ending the federal governments diversity, equity and inclusion programs has disrupted its observance elsewhere.Today, we pay tribute to the generations of Black legends, champions, warriors and patriots who helped drive our country forward to greatness. And you really are great, great people, Trump said. Trump didnt mention his anti-DEI crusade in as he addressed hundreds of guests in a reception in the East Room, though he did make a brief reference of the The New York Times 1619 Project, which highlights the lasting consequences of slavery in America. Trump objected to the project during his first term, and in response created a commission to promote so-called patriotic education dubbed the 1776 Commission.The last administration tried to reduce all of American history to a single year, 1619. But under our administration, we honor the indispensable role black Americans have always played in the immortal cause of another day, 1776, Trump said. We like 1776. Trump has called DEI programs discrimination and pushed to eradicate diversity programs from the government, directed that DEI workers eventually be laid off and exerted similar pressure on the private sector to shift to an exclusive focus on merit.The sweeping effort has sown discord and confusion across federal agencies, which have variously interpreted the order to limit how they can acknowledge race in history and culture or report demographic data on race and gender. Joining Trump were Black political figures and activists who have been his vocal supporters. Invited guests, according to a White House official, included Republican Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina; Republican Rep. John James of Michigan; Alveda King, a niece of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.; Herschel Walker, the football legend who is Trumps choice as U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas; and prison reform advocate Alice Johnson, whom he pardoned in 2020.Other invited guests included figures from sports and entertainment, including former ESPN host Sage Steele; former NFL player Jack Brewer; and rap stars Kodak Black, Lil Boosie and Rod Wave, according to the official, who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.In the wake of his executive order, the Defense Department issued guidance declaring identity months dead and said that working hours would no longer be used to mark cultural awareness months such as Black History Month, Womens History Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month. That seemed to clash with a National Black History Month proclamation signed the same day by Trump, which called for public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.While the White House has issued its position, agencies of the government have discretion on whether to continue to recognize Black History Month, according to the official.On Feb. 1, the first day of Black History Month, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced that his department will no longer participate in celebrations based on immutable traits or any other identity-based observances. And in a diplomatic cable, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the agencys removal of DEI policies would dovetail with eliminating our focus on political and cultural causes that are divisive at home and deeply unpopular abroad. The administration has issued a deadline to schools and universities to eliminate diversity initiatives or risk losing federal money. Major corporations have backtracked on DEI policies in hiring, promotion and workplace culture in recent months, with many citing potential legal challenges from the administration.Black History Month has been recognized by every U.S. president since 1976, including Trump during his first term. Black History is American history. And similar to the story of our nation, it is a story of strength, resilience, and dogged perseverance, said CJ Pearson, a national co-chair of the Republican National Committees youth advisory council. Pearson, who is Black, has been an outspoken defender of Trump against Black civic leaders, civil rights advocates and Democrats who lambast the president as racist. President Trumps anti-DEI policies arent promoting racism but what they are doing is manifesting the dream of the great Martin Luther King, Jr.: a nation where one isnt judged by the color of their skin but instead by the content of their character, said Pearson, who will attend the White House event.Other Black Republicans arent so sanguine about the administrations current course or what it portends for the GOPs nascent inroads with Black voters or other communities of color. Trump can build upon the coalition he pulled together in November with Blacks and Asians and Hispanics and young folks, said Raynard Jackson, a Republican strategist. But if they leave it the way it stands right now, Trump is going to destroy the very coalition he so marvelously brought to the table in November.To Jackson, DEI is a catch-all for liberal policies that are unrecognizable from the original intent of civil rights laws meant to promote the social and economic progress of Black Americans. But in removing and denigrating the policies, Jackson said, the White House risked being labeled as discriminatory by offering no alternative framework for how disadvantaged communities can get ahead. How do you have diversity without it being a mandated bean-counting situation? Jackson asked. Theyve done a masterful job at telling me what theyre against. Im waiting to hear what theyre for.During the 2024 campaign, Trump tried to reach Black voters through in-person events in Atlanta, Chicago and New York. His campaign courted Black celebrities and media personalities to boost his message. Trumps Black conservative allies, including Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., conducted roundtables at Black barbershops and bus tours through majority-Black cities. But Trump also frequently denigrated Black communities in his pitch and made claims that pitted voters of color against immigrants, who he said were taking Black jobs and Hispanic jobs.The efforts to boost support among Black voters seemed to have some success. He won a larger share of Black voters than he did in 2020, particularly among young Black men, according to AP VoteCast, a nationwide survey of more than 120,000 voters in the 2024 election.Overall, about 16% of Black voters supported Trump in November, while about 8 in 10 voted for Democrat Kamala Harris. But that represented an improvement for Trump from 2020, when only 8% of Black voters backed him and about 9 in 10 went for Democrat Joe Biden.___Price reported from New York. MATT BROWN Brown is a reporter covering national politics, race and democracy issues. twitter instagram mailto MICHELLE L. PRICE Price is a national political reporter for The Associated Press. She is based in New York. twitter mailto

President Donald Trump listens as Elon Musk speaks in the Oval Office at the White House, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025, in Washington. (Photo/Alex Brandon)2025-02-20T21:49:10Z WASHINGTON (AP) An idea first proposed on social media has bubbled up to the White House and received President Donald Trumps enthusiastic endorsement: Take some of the savings from billionaire Elon Musks drive to cut government spending and return it to taxpayers.I love it, Trump said late Wednesday on Air Force One, when asked about the proposal. If Musks target of $2 trillion in spending cuts is achieved by next year, supporters of the idea say that about one-fifth of those funds could be distributed to taxpaying households in checks of about $5,000. But before you start planning for a windfall, budget experts say such huge savings nearly one-third of the federal governments annual spending are highly unlikely. And sending out a round of checks similar to the stimulus payments distributed by Trump and then President Joe Biden during the pandemic could fuel inflation, economists warn, though White House officials dismiss that concern. With the annual budget deficit at $1.8 trillion last year and Trump proposing extensive tax cuts, there will also be significant pressure to use all the savings to reduce that deficit, rather than pass on part of it. Heres what to know about the proposal: Where is this coming from? James Fishback, founder of investment firm Azoria Partners which he launched at Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, promoted the idea Tuesday on X, formerly known as Twitter, prompting Musk to respond that he would check with the president. Fishback said there have also been behind the scenes conversations about the issue with White House officials.Musk has estimated that his Department of Government Efficiency has cut $55 billion so far a tiny fraction of the $6.8 trillion federal budget. But DOGEs public statements so far havent verified the presumed savings, and its claims that tens of millions of dead people are fraudulently receiving Social Security have been disproven. Fishback supports having the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office determine how much DOGE saved. If DOGE cuts $500 billion by July 2026, he said, then the checks would be $1,250, rather than $5,000. We uncovered enormous waste, fraud and abuse, Fishback said in an interview with The Associated Press. And we are going to make good and pay restitution and then rewrite the social contract between the taxpayer and the federal government.Fishback supports sending out checks, rather than using all the money to reduce the deficit, because it would encourage Americans to seek out wasteful government spending in their communities, and report it to DOGE.When am I going to get my check?OK, lets slow down. According to the proposal, DOGE must first complete its work, slated to be done by July 2026. Once that happens, one-fifth of any savings could be distributed later that year to the roughly 79 million households that pay income taxes. About 40% of Americans dont pay such taxes, so they wouldnt get a check. How much can DOGE really save? Color most economists and budget experts skeptical that its focus on waste, fraud, and abuse can actually reduce government spending by much. Budget-cutters from both parties have sought to eliminate waste which doesnt have much of a political constituency for decades, with little success in reducing the deficit. One of the biggest moves by the Trump administration so far has been to fire tens of thousands of government workers, but such changes arent likely to produce big savings. Only a small share of total spending goes to federal employees, said Douglas Elmendorf, former director of the Congressional Budget Office. The big money is in federal benefits and in federal taxes and those are not in DOGEs purview. In November, John DiIulio Jr., a political scientist at the University of Pennsylvania, wrote in an essay for the Brookings Institution that eliminating the entire federal civilian workforce would leave in place about 95% of all federal spending and the $34 trillion national debt. DiIulio noted that government contractors and nonprofits that receive government funds now employ three times as many people as the federal governments 2.2 million employees. Wouldnt another round of government checks contribute to higher inflation? Trump and his economists blame Bidens $1,200 stimulus checks, distributed in the spring of 2021, for fueling the worst spike in inflation in four decades. Yet they maintain that sending checks stemming from reduced government spending wouldnt boost inflation. Kevin Hassett, director of the White Houses National Economic Council, said Thursday that since the money would have been spent by the government anyway, having it spent by consumers would be a wash. Biden and Trumps stimulus checks during the pandemic were deficit-financed, which can be more inflationary. But Ernie Tedeschi, director of economics at the Yale Budget Lab, and an economist in the Biden White House, said that more government checks are the last thing we need economically right now. The U.S. unemployment rate is now much lower than in 2021, Tedeschi said, which means that businesses could struggle to hire enough workers to meet the additional demand created by a round of checks. Worker shortages can push up prices. Yet some Democrats agree with Hassett, but for different reasons. I cant imagine theyd be inflationary because I cant imagine theyd be big enough, said Elaine Kamarck, senior fellow in governance studies at the Brookings Institution. Kamarck, who worked with Vice President Al Gore to cut government waste in the Clinton administration, dismissed the DOGE dividend as ridiculous.Theres no money there, and certainly not enough money to make a big contribution to taxpayers, she said. The guy just says things, she added, referring to Musk. CHRISTOPHER RUGABER Rugaber has covered the Federal Reserve and the U.S. economy for the AP for 16 years. He is a two-time finalist for the Gerald Loeb award for business reporting. twitter mailto

The fight against HIV has undoubtedly come a long way in recent decades. While challenges remain, especially when it comes to overcoming stigma, calling out antiquated HIV criminalization laws and HIV funding at home and abroad, the latest breakthrough in HIV prevention could transform how individuals manage their risk. Last week, the U.S. Food and [...]The post A New Era in HIV Prevention: Twice-Yearly Injectable PrEP Could Transform Lives first appeared on GLAAD.

Filou Fitt is the name on everyone's tongue.Since signing with Men.com as an exclusive model last year, the star has created too many sexy videos to count and he has no signs of slowing down.While attending the 2025 GayVN Awards, Fitt revealed his favorite type of content to create and even manifested the next scene he's love to star in next."I like orgies. I like group scenes. I think I would love to do a bisexual orgy with a lot of guys and a lot of girls. It would be something different," Fitt tells PRIDE. See on Instagram Fitt has certainly become one of the most recognizable faces in the adult entertainment space in a short amount of time, but the model is only gaining momentum."I live in the moment and I want to continue my career. I'm very happy with my life and my lifestyle. I love this industry. I love the community. I love my fans and I want to continue for sure."Fans can keep up with Filou Fitt by following him on Instagram here. To see the full interview from the red carpet at the 2025 GayVN Awards, check out the video at the top of the page.

Actor Dan Stevens is set to star in an upcoming movie about the dating app Bumble and just admitted to looking at Grindr with a friend in the past!In a new interview with Variety, the 42-year-old Downton Abbey star joked about finding out he was surrounded by horny gay men.It was his role as Bumble investor Andrey Andreev in Swiped the working title for a film that will be released by Hulu later this year that got Stevens talking about dating apps. Stevens admitted to interviewer Marc Malkin that dating apps came along after my time, so hes never actually swiped right on anyone himself.Its a brave new world out there, he said. I know some people who are very actively into it, shall we say. That in itself is a very interesting sort of phenomenon. A friend of mine calls it Candy Crush for Humans.While hes never partaken himself, he did check out a friends Grindr account once and was surprised by what he saw.Ive had friends whove shown me apps. I remember a friend who showed me the early days of Grindr, Stevens explained. We were on Broadway and just to show me what sort of the radar was we were in the basement of a Broadway theater he showed me, and he was like, Well, this guy is 750 feet away. I was like, What are you talking about?The Cuckoo star then joked about how many horny men are on the gay hookup app.And it was just like all these little dots of all these horny gay men sort of circling us. So I was like, Oh my God, this is terrifying, he teased.Theyre not horny gay men. Were just looking for love, Dan. Its just love, Malkin quipped in response. They might be horny. We dont know, Stevens laughed. Too bad his upcoming film is about Bumble and not Grindr because we would be extra seated!

The White House is seen as the snow falls, Feb. 11, 2025, in Washington. (Photo/Alex Brandon, File)2025-02-20T22:13:00Z WASHINGTON, D.C. (AP) The moment that local officials in Washington have been dreading for months is finally here. President Donald Trump, one month into his second term, has publicly returned to one of his longtime talking points: a federal takeover of the District of Columbia. It would take some doing, though including, literally, an act of Congress. But the issue bubbled up again this week, the latest in the blizzard of initiatives that have surfaced since Trump took the oath of office Jan. 20. Whether it was just a reminder that the president possesses the power to set off alarms with an off-the-cuff remark or by directing his administration to take concrete steps to make it happen remains to be seen. As with efforts to rename the Gulf of Mexico, make Canada the 51st state or make Greenland a U.S. territory, a lot depends on what happens next.Heres a look at some of the questions surrounding the issue: Could this really happen?Yes, but Trump cant do it alone. Congress, with both houses controlled by Republicans, could absolutely vote to repeal the 1973 Home Rule Act. That would be a deeply controversial vote which would likely test the strength of the three-seat GOP majority in the House of Representatives. Why now?Thats a bit of a mystery. Mayor Muriel Bowser has set a conciliatory tone ever since Trump was elected again. She traveled to Mar-a-Lago to meet with Trump, and said she looked forward to working with the new administration and emphasized the common-ground issues such as their mutual desire to get federal workers back to their offices. Trump, in his brief comments on Air Force One, said he and Bowser get along great. Bowser responded with a posting on X, declaring D.C. a world-class city and listing the Districts virtues. Trump was also responding to a specific question from a reporter, so its possible this was an off-the-cuff comment and not indicative of an immediate priority issue for him. What can Trump do unilaterally?Local government officials have been quietly predicting some sort of executive order imposing stiffer criminal penalties or a crackdown on homeless encampments, but a full takeover would still require an act of Congress.He could theoretically take over the Metropolitan Police Department something that was considered during the 2020 mass protests over the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police. Justin Hansford, a professor at D.C.'s Howard University School of Law, said such a step would need some sort of justifying emergency. Trumps perspective on what constitutes such an emergency, Hansford said, would absolutely be challenged in court. How bad are the problems he mentioned?Violent crime rates, particularly homicide and car jacking, legitimately spiked in 2023, leaving officials publicly scrambling for answers. Those numbers came down significantly in 2024, in the face of a new public safety bill and a concerted MPD crackdown. Theyre up a bit so far in 2025 but still down from their recent peak but also well below the late 1990s when D.C. regularly led the nation in per-capita homicides. Graffiti in D.C. is common but not exactly a civic crisis. The city has worked to both clean up graffiti hotspots and transform young taggers into publicly sponsored muralists. Multiple homeless encampments are a fact of life in Washington, but the District government is partially handcuffed by the fact that large swaths of the public greenspace, including many parks and traffic circles, are under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service. The last few years have settled into a cyclical dynamic, with homeless encampments slowly growing into mini tent cities on NPS land, followed by a mass clearing with bulldozers once or twice a year. Whats the history between Trump and DC?Its not positive. During Trumps turbulent first term, he and the local government publicly sparred multiple times in tones ranging from playful to deeply personal. When Trump floated the idea of a massive July 4 military parade complete with tanks rolling through the streets, the D.C. Council publicly mocked him.Trump accused Bowser of losing control of her city during protests over the murder of George Floyd. He backed down from a threat to take over the MPD, and eventually declared his own multi-agency lockdown that included low-flying helicopters buzzing protesters. Bowser responded by having Black Lives Matter painted on the street in giant yellow letters one block from the White House. Trumps feelings remained intense during the four years after leaving office. He repeatedly promised a federal takeover while on the campaign trail as part of an effort to stoke fears about violence in U.S. cities generally. In August 2023, when he briefly came to town to plead not guilty on charges of trying to overturn his 2020 electoral loss to former President Joe Biden, Trump blasted the capital city on social media, calling it a filthy and crime ridden embarrassment to our nation. What about Congress?Activist Republicans in Congress have long used the House Oversight Committee as a forum to employ their power over the local government. During the crime spike in 2023, Bowser and members of the D.C. Council were regularly summoned for inquiries before the committee. That year, Congress also, for the first time in decades, fully overturned a D.C. law when it repealed a rewrite of the D.C. criminal code. But that required Congressional Democrats to join in, and then-President Biden to sign off on it. Members of Congress have also repeatedly used budget riders to alter D.C. laws in minor ways, targeting everything from marijuana legalization to the citys use of traffic cameras. As an indication of just how personal and petty this dynamic has become, the bill previously introduced in Congress proposing to repeal D.C. home rule was titled to produce an antagonistic acronym. Its called the Bringing Oversight to Washington and Safety to Every Resident Act or the BOWSER Act.Is there any silver lining for D.C.?Perhaps the most optimistic interpretation among D.C. officials is a quiet belief that Trump and Congress have no actual interest in the hassle that comes with managing a city of 700,000 residents more populous that two U.S. states. They expect a wave of budget riders from GOP members of Congress emboldened by Trumps statements. But some observers believe Congress will stop short of assuming the responsibility and liability that would come with a full federal takeover. As a lawyer, Im thinking about who I would sue if theres a police brutality case, said Hansford, the Howard law professor. I dont think Congress wants to deal with all that. ASHRAF KHALIL Khalil writes about local issues in Washington, D.C., for The Associated Press and covers the social safety net around the country. twitter instagram mailto

The United States Depository for gold reserves stands in Fort Knox, Kentucky, in 1974. (AP Photo, File)2025-02-20T19:36:27Z LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) President Donald Trump says Elon Musk will be looking at Fort Knox, the legendary depository in Kentucky for American gold reserves, to make sure the gold is still there.Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says there is an audit every year and that all the gold is present and accounted for.The United States Bullion Depository at Fort Knox has stored precious metal bullion reserves for the United States since 1937 and has become synonymous for secure and well protected. Along with protecting gold reserves, Fort Knox is currently also used as the Armys human resources command center, and it hosts the Armys largest annual training event each summer.Fort Knox history and locationThe Army post is about 35 miles south of Louisville and encompasses 109,000 acres in three Kentucky counties Bullitt, Hardin, and Mead. Camp Knox was established during World War I and became an artillery training center, according to the Army posts website. It was made a permanent installation in 1932 and has been known since then as Fort Knox. The first gold arrived at Fort Knox in 1937 with the 1st Cavalry Regiment called on to guard the shipment. With the outbreak of World War II in Europe, the Army created the Armored Force at Fort Knox, and thousands of soldiers were ordered there and introduced to the tank. For nearly 80 years, the post was known as the Home of Cavalry and Armor. In 2005, the Army decided to move the Armor Center and School to Fort Benning, Georgia, and the Human Resource Command Center of Excellence was established at Fort Knox. In 2013, ROTC Cadet Summer Training was consolidated at Fort Knox. The post hosts the Armys largest annual training event each summer. How much gold is stored at Fort KnoxAccording to the U.S. Mint, current gold holdings at the US Bullion Depository at Fort Knox are 147.3 million ounces. About half of the Treasurys stored gold is kept at Fort Knox. Has the gold ever been removed? The Mint says only very small quantities have been removed to test the purity of the gold during regularly scheduled audits. Except for these samples, no gold has been transferred to or from the depository for many years. The golds book value is $42.22 per ounce. Just how secure is Fort KnoxThe depository is very secure. The actual structure and content of the facility is known by only a few, and no one person knows all the procedures to open the vault. What is known publicly is that the facility was built in 1936 using 16,000 cubic feet of granite, 4,200 cubic yards of concrete, 750 tons of reinforcing steel and 670 tons of structural steel. The facility is heavily guarded and has broken its strict policy of not allowing visitors only three times.Has anyone been allowed to see the gold reserves?In 1974, the US Mint opened the vaults to a group of journalists and a congressional delegation so they could see the gold reserves. The Treasury secretary allowed the visit after persistent rumors that the gold had been removed. Until then, the only person other than authorized personnel to access the vaults was President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Since then, the vaults have been opened one other time: In 2017, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin visited with Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin and congressional representatives. Current Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said he would happily arrange an inspection for any senator who is interested in seeing the vaults. Fort Knox in popular lexiconThe gold depository at Fort Knox has a reputation for being impenetrable, which has gained it a place in popular culture. As early as 1952, a Looney Tunes cartoon featured Bugs Bunny and Yosemite Sam digging for gold Fort Knox. Fort Knox has also been featured in the plot of movies such as the 1964 James Bond spy thriller Goldfinger and the 1981 comedy Stripes, which was partially filmed at the post.

A photo of a popular gay tattoo with a very NSFW meaning is currently going viral on social media, and the straights are melting down because theyre out of the loop.Yesterday, someone on social media reposted a photo of a black double armband tattoo that was captioned the gayest tattoo ever, and its been going viral ever since.The photo, which has more than 63 million views and climbing, was reposted on X (formerly Twitter) by @slmxny, who wrote, [T]he day I found out what this shit meant like oh yall get downnnn. (@) Gay men in the comments posted pics of their own armband tattoos, but it was clear that the straight community has no idea what the tattoo actually means because they are begging for someone to explain it to them in the comments. (@) (@) For those not in the know, the tattoo, which looks like a simple black band wrapped around the arm, is a signifier to other gay men that you like fisting and just how far you can go. According to queer fetish magazine Mister B Wings, a gay man (whether they be the fist-er or the fist-ee) would get a tattoo of how far up his asshole he could give or take an arm and a fist. (@) There is some argument online about whether this is just a myth and gay men are actually getting the tattoo for purely aesthetic reasons, with some people saying that gay men get this tattoo to represent the equal sign for LGBTQ+ equality. People in the comments also pointed out that people sometimes get them to signify the loss of a loved one as well. But considering how many people posted photos of their own tattoos or commented that they knew the meaning, it does seem to be the reason some people get the discreet but very NSFW tattoo. (@) Luckily for all of the confused straight people loitering in the comment section, someone finally took pity on them and laid it out, for yall who dont know it is how far you fisted someone.Keep scrolling to see the funniest reactions to this very gay viral tattoo! (@) "so do you mark it with a sharpie and go to the tattoo parlor immediately or just mental note where it was at like post event and go a few days later?" (@) "Pro Max version" (@) "okay but like why would the fister get all the credit when the fistee is the one doing the work?" (@) "Lmao imagine being a gent who just likes things and you get this tatttoo not knowing what its about. Then you find out later" (@) "Ay chill my aunt got this same tat on her shoulder. wtf it means?" (@) "for those who dont know its showing how far you can reach down for the last pringle" (@) "I didn't want to know. Why I I go through the comments? WHYYYYYY?" (@) "Every time I see someone with this tattoo I think 'I know what you are but do you?'" (@) "this isnt a type of tribal tattoo ?? my gay work bestie has these and hes Filipino YALL THIS AINT CULTURAL?! Omg" (@) "Some knowledge is a blessing, some is just shocking" (@) "This is why you gotta research before getting inked" (@) "For real? ..and I'm thinking it's the best simple tatt to get" (@) "It's only worth tattooing your record if you make it to elbow deep or more" (@) "95% of the guys who get this tattoo don even know what it means, they just think its sigma and goes hard even though they arent unique at all and most gym bro chad type guys get this tattoo" (@) "Nah yall gotta be joking right?" (@) "Didnt expect to learn something new today, but here we are" (@) "okay real ones will know this from teen wolf even the Gay community they know whats up" (@) "who knew a tattoo could say so much without words" (@) "Oh I was thinking of getting just a band like that, now I have to research it first and cancel the idea"

During the Trump era, which theoretically started in 2015 when Donald Trump descended down the escalator of Trump Tower, weve undergone what can be best described as rapid societal and morality change. During that time, the media has played a critical role in shaping public perception and reality. And perhaps the person with the best vantage point during this shift is Angelo Carusone, chairman and president of Media Matters.Carusones watchdog role has given him extraordinary insight in covering and deciphering Trump. It is a 24/7 job since the media spigot never turns off. And his work and analysis poke the hornets nest at times.Hes been sued by both Trump and Elon Musk, and a litany of other mostly right-wing parties, because he calls out the lies and misinformation that spews 24/7 from conservative and fringe media. Carusones front-row seat to the perception Donald Trump tries to perpetuate on the public allows him to see things that others don't, including Trump trying to shed his MAGA base.A fascinating example of this disconnect is Trumps evolving aesthetic, Carusone noted during a recent lengthy video call. Historically, his ill-fitting, non-shiny suits projected a working-class appeal, despite their high cost. Recently, however, his suits have become tailored, form-fitted, and made from more luxurious fabrics.To Carusone, this is an indication that Trump now seeks validation from actual elites rather than his working-class base. The shift is an example of Trump severing his connection with his audience, a subtle but significant change that could create an opening for effective counter-messaging.The asymmetry in media consumption, particularly with right-leaning content dominating, is a stark reality. Carusone underscored that right-wing media outlets, bolstered by an extensive infrastructure, are better positioned to harness public frustration and turn it into political capital. With nearly 450 million aggregate subscribers compared to the lefts 68 million on a good day, the imbalance is staggering, he pointed out. The rights ability to immediately craft narratives around policy failures and blame malicious implementation by the so-called deep state allows them to reframe events to their advantage, even when those very failures are the direct result of conservative policies.For example, when farmers lose government support or hospitals lay off workers due to policy changes, the right steps in to promise restoration and deflect blame onto Democrats, regardless of the policys actual origins. This strategic inoculation against legitimate criticism enables them to weaponize public discontent, advocating for more power under the guise of rectifying perceived injustices, Carusone warned. Meanwhile, Democrats often fail to connect these dots for the public, allowing frustration to fester without a clear explanation of causality.Carusone emphasized that the media must take responsibility in connecting these policy effects to their actual causes. When public anger is left unguided, it is easily exploited by authoritarian movements, leading to a reinforcing cycle of misinformation and reactionary politics, he cautioned. The right-wings sophisticated media apparatus ensures that when harm occurs, it is immediately framed in a way that amplifies their own power rather than holding them accountable.Another key issue recently is the Democrats failure to show up, literally and figuratively. Media visibility is paramount in shaping narratives, and Republicans have mastered this aspect, Carusone stated. When a major event unfolds, such as an aviation disaster or an economic downturn in a key industry, right-wing figures are quick to seize the moment, crafting compelling narratives while Democrats lag behind. Carusone pointed to the recent plane and helicopter collision and crash into the Potomac River as an example: Rather than proactively addressing concerns and asserting leadership, Democrats waited for Trump to blame DEI before responding, allowing the narrative to be dictated by the right, Carusone noted. Someone from the party should have been down on the banks of the Potomac, talking about the crash, rather than reacting to how Trump wrongly reacted to it.This failure to engage extends beyond crisis response to a broader issue of economic messaging. Democrats struggle to authentically address economic inequality without alienating their donor base, Carusone said. Unlike Republican donors, who tolerate anti-elite rhetoric as long as it remains abstract, Democratic donors bristle at critiques of wealth, fearing that populist sentiments may target them directly.This hesitancy stifles Democrats ability to speak to the real frustrations of working-class Americans, leaving a vacuum that Trumps brand of populism fills, Carusone explained.Ultimately, Carusone warns against the Democratic tendency to seek a singular hero or investigation to defeat Trump. They must develop a sustained strategy that drives wedges between Trump and his base, highlighting the contradictions in his messaging and policy decisions, he said. This requires a fundamental shift in how Democrats and their media allies engage with the public: They need to prioritize local stories, show up in critical moments, and reframe economic grievances in a way that acknowledges reality without alienating necessary allies.The medias role is not just to report but to contextualize, Carusone concluded. Without this crucial function, public frustration will continue to be misdirected, allowing reactionary forces to consolidate power. If Democrats wish to counteract this trend, they must rethink their engagement strategies, recognizing that in the battle for narrative control, showing up is half the fight.

Flowers and a sign are placed outside the headquarters of the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)2025-02-20T23:55:45Z WASHINGTON (AP) The Trump administration has kept withholding foreign aid despite a court order and must at least temporarily restore the funding to programs worldwide, a federal judge said Thursday.Judge Amir H. Ali declined a request by nonprofit groups doing business with the U.S. Agency for International Development to find Trump administration officials in contempt of his order, however.The Washington, D.C., district court judge said administration officials had used his Feb. 13 order to temporarily lift the freeze on foreign aid to instead come up with a new, post-hoc rationalization for the en masse suspension of funding.Despite the judges order to the contrary, USAID Deputy Secretary Pete Marocco, a Trump appointee, and other top officials had continued their blanket suspension of funds, Ali said.The ruling comes in a lawsuit by the nonprofit groups challenging the Trump administrations month-old cutoff of foreign assistance through USAID and the State Department, which shut down $60 billion in annual aid and development programs overseas almost overnight. Even after Alis order, USAID staffers and contractors say the State Department and USAID still have not restored payments even on hundreds of millions of dollars already owed by the government. Marocco and other administration officials defended the nonpayment in written arguments to the judge this week. They contended that they could lawfully stop or terminate payments under thousands of contracts without violating the judges order. The Trump administration says it is now doing a program-by-program review of all State Department and USAID foreign assistance programs to see which ones meet the Trump administrations agenda.Aid organizations, and current and former USAID staffers in interviews and court affidavits, say the funding freeze and deep Trump administration purges of USAID staffers have brought U.S. foreign assistance globally to a halt, forced thousands of layoffs and is driving government partners to financial collapse. ELLEN KNICKMEYER Knickmeyer covers foreign policy and national security for The Associated Press. She is based in Washington, D.C. twitter LINDSAY WHITEHURST Whitehurst covers the Supreme Court, legal affairs and criminal justice for The Associated Press in Washington, D.C. Past stops include Salt Lake City, New Mexico and Indiana. twitter mailto RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

Pete Carlson, third from left, a passenger on the Delta flight that crashed in Toronto on Monday, holds a certificate of recognition for his actions in helping evacuate the plane and help fellow passengers, Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025 in Toronto, Canada. (AP Photo/John Wawrow)2025-02-20T20:27:56Z TORONTO (AP) Former paramedic Peter Carlson is still having difficulty putting into perspective the shuddering jolt he and 79 others aboard Delta Air Lines flight 4819 experienced earlier this week.One moment, the 40-year-old was looking forward to arriving in Toronto where he was speaking at an Ontario paramedic chiefs convention. The next, he was hanging strapped only by his seatbelt looking down at the airplanes ceiling, attempting to assess the chaos around him.As blood flowed from a gash on the back of Carlsons head, he noticed other injured passengers, including one pinned beneath a seat behind him. There was an overwhelming smell of jet fuel as it streamed down the window next to his seat by the planes right wing which was sheared off during Mondays crash landing at Torontos Pearson International Airport. This image taken from video released by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, shows the crashed plane of Delta flight 4819 at Toronto Pearson International Airport, in Mississauga, Ontario, on Tuesday, Feb. 18. (Transportation Safety Board of Canada via AP) This image taken from video released by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, shows the crashed plane of Delta flight 4819 at Toronto Pearson International Airport, in Mississauga, Ontario, on Tuesday, Feb. 18. (Transportation Safety Board of Canada via AP) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More It was a forceful impact, a sideways movement and suddenly just inverted, Carlson told The Associated Press on Wednesday. And the only mission was to get out. Carlsons friend and convention chairman Michael Nolan, 53, was waiting to pick him up when he spotted a plume of black smoke in the distance.Are you OK? Somethings going on on the runway, Nolan texted Carlson, not realizing it was his plane.Carlson responded that he was on the tarmac.At first, Nolan thought it meant Carlsons plane had landed. Then his friend sent a follow-up text with a picture of his fellow passengers evacuating the upside-down plane. My heart just sank ... knowing that was his reality was absolutely shocking to me and really brought it home, said Nolan, a paramedic chief in a county north of Ottawa.Instead of just attending a convention about the role paramedics play in the world, the two men found themselves in the middle of a real-life emergency.Nolan rushed to a triage area to assist in treating injured passengers, greeting his friend of over a decade with a big hug. Carlsons paramedic instincts also kicked in, even though hes held a so-called desk job for the past decade.I was comfortable with how my body and mind empowered me to do what I needed to do at that point, he said. I was able to see the objective nature of the challenge in front of us, which was to get away from the threat.Though credited for helping in the evacuation, Carlson deferred praise to the four crew members who shepherded the passengers to safety. That everyone survived astounds him, especially after seeing videos posted online of the Mitsubishi CRJ-900 jet touching down heavily and skidding down the runway before flipping over.Even without seeing that, its remarkable, Carlson said, noting he bruised his ribs and has several cuts and bruises on his legs.I dont know if Im deserving of going into miracle territory, but it sure feels ... he added, before pausing to find the appropriate word. Its amazing. Its amazing.The last of the 21 injured passengers was released from the hospital on Thursday. Cranes lift the wreckage of Delta flight 4819 from the runway at Toronto Pearson International Airport, in Mississauga, Ontario, Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. (Arlyn McAdorey/The Canadian Press via AP) Cranes lift the wreckage of Delta flight 4819 from the runway at Toronto Pearson International Airport, in Mississauga, Ontario, Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. (Arlyn McAdorey/The Canadian Press via AP) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More The cuts and bruises will heal, but the mental trauma left Carlson wondering whether he could muster enough resolve on Wednesday to still deliver his address. It took me a lot of personal motivation to leave my room, he said. This morning, I just couldnt. I was quite emotional about this whole thing and just really want to be home.And yet, deliver Carlson did giving a 20-minute speech in which he outlined his background and influences in paramedicine, the significance of the job and the difference paramedics can make.Whatever anxieties he felt didnt show.Though Carlson longed to be back home in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with his wife and three children, his nerves were eased being among his working family of paramedics and Nolan.National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Cindy Woodhouse welcomed Carlson on Tuesday into a drumming circle of healing.A day later, Ontario paramedic chiefs association president Greg Sage honored Carlsons efforts on the airplane with a certificate. Pete Carlson, third from left, a passenger on the Delta flight that crashed in Toronto on Monday, holds a certificate of recognition for his actions in helping evacuate the plane and help fellow passengers, Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025 in Toronto, Canada. (AP Photo/John Wawrow) Pete Carlson, third from left, a passenger on the Delta flight that crashed in Toronto on Monday, holds a certificate of recognition for his actions in helping evacuate the plane and help fellow passengers, Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025 in Toronto, Canada. (AP Photo/John Wawrow) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More I think every single one of us in this room would hope that if we personally were faced with what Pete was, that we would respond in a similar manner, Sage said. I think hes inspired all of us. Carlsons trip to Toronto began with a hug with Nolan during a very trying time. Two days later, the two shared a more joyous hug onstage after Carlson accepted his award to a standing ovation.I was not as present the last couple of days as I had hoped to be, Carlson apologized to the crowd.Given the events as theyve played out, I cant think of a better group of people in terms of taking care of one another in their community and myself, Carlson said. So just a very big thank you.

A photo of a popular gay tattoo with a very NSFW meaning is currently going viral on social media, and the straights are melting down because theyre out of the loop.Yesterday, someone on social media reposted a photo of a black double armband tattoo that was captioned the gayest tattoo ever, and its been going viral ever since.The photo, which has more than 63 million views and climbing, was reposted on X (formerly Twitter) by @slmxny, who wrote, [T]he day I found out what this shit meant like oh yall get downnnn. (@) Gay men in the comments posted pics of their own armband tattoos, but it was clear that the straight community has no idea what the tattoo actually means because they are begging for someone to explain it to them in the comments. (@) (@) For those not in the know, the tattoo, which looks like a simple black band wrapped around the arm, is a signifier to other gay men that you like fisting and just how far you can go. According to queer fetish magazine Mister B Wings, a gay man (whether they be the fist-er or the fist-ee) would get a tattoo of how far up his asshole he could give or take an arm and a fist. (@) There is some argument online about whether this is just a myth and gay men are actually getting the tattoo for purely aesthetic reasons, with some people saying that gay men get this tattoo to represent the equal sign for LGBTQ+ equality. People in the comments also pointed out that people sometimes get them to signify the loss of a loved one as well. But considering how many people posted photos of their own tattoos or commented that they knew the meaning, it does seem to be the reason some people get the discreet but very NSFW tattoo. (@) Luckily for all of the confused straight people loitering in the comment section, someone finally took pity on them and laid it out, for yall who dont know it is how far you fisted someone.Keep scrolling to see the funniest reactions to this very gay viral tattoo! (@) "so do you mark it with a sharpie and go to the tattoo parlor immediately or just mental note where it was at like post event and go a few days later?" (@) "Pro Max version" (@) "okay but like why would the fister get all the credit when the fistee is the one doing the work?" (@) "Lmao imagine being a gent who just likes things and you get this tatttoo not knowing what its about. Then you find out later" (@) "Ay chill my aunt got this same tat on her shoulder. wtf it means?" (@) "for those who dont know its showing how far you can reach down for the last pringle" (@) "I didn't want to know. Why I I go through the comments? WHYYYYYY?" (@) "Every time I see someone with this tattoo I think 'I know what you are but do you?'" (@) "this isnt a type of tribal tattoo ?? my gay work bestie has these and hes Filipino YALL THIS AINT CULTURAL?! Omg" (@) "Some knowledge is a blessing, some is just shocking" (@) "This is why you gotta research before getting inked" (@) "For real? ..and I'm thinking it's the best simple tatt to get" (@) "It's only worth tattooing your record if you make it to elbow deep or more" (@) "95% of the guys who get this tattoo don even know what it means, they just think its sigma and goes hard even though they arent unique at all and most gym bro chad type guys get this tattoo" (@) "Nah yall gotta be joking right?" (@) "Didnt expect to learn something new today, but here we are" (@) "okay real ones will know this from teen wolf even the Gay community they know whats up" (@) "who knew a tattoo could say so much without words" (@) "Oh I was thinking of getting just a band like that, now I have to research it first and cancel the idea"

After two decades of changing lives on-screen, the stars of Queer Eye are taking their message of love, acceptance, and transformation on the road with their first-ever live tour, The Fab Five Live! The tour kicked off at the Miller Theater in Philadelphia, where Jonathan Van Ness, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Antoni Porowski, and newest member Jeremiah Brent received a warmSource

A new report from Gallup reveals that 9.3% of U.S. adults now identify as LGBTQ+, marking a significant increase, particularly among younger generations and bisexual women. The Gallup survey, conducted via telephone with 14,000 participants in 2024, shows a rise in the number of people identifying as LGBTQ+ across the United States. The report highlights key demographic shiftsSource

Elon Musk holds up a chainsaw he received from Argentina's President Javier Milei, right, as they arrive to speak at the Conservative Political Action Conference, CPAC, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, in Oxon Hill, Md. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)2025-02-21T00:31:59Z OXON HILL, Md. (AP) Billionaire Elon Musk appeared at a conservative gathering outside Washington on Thursday waving a chainsaw in the air, showing openness to auditing the Federal Reserve and accusing Democrats of treason.Musk, the Tesla CEO who has become perhaps President Donald Trumps most influential adviser, spoke about his crusade to cut government spending and downsize the federal workforce with the administrations Department of Government Efficiency. The entrepreneur was first announced earlier that day as a speaker, drawing huge cheers from activists gathered at the Conservative Political Action Conference. Before his appearance, he met with Argentine President Javier Milei, who has been frequently praised by Musk and popularized the power tool while campaigning in 2023 and proposing slashing public spending.After Musk appeared onstage, wearing shades and his trademark black Make America Great Again hat, he said Milei had a gift for him. The Argentine leader then walked onstage with the red chainsaw and passed it to Musk. The chainsaw was engraved with Mileis slogan, Viva la libertad, carajo, which is Spanish for Long live liberty, damn it. This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy, he said. Musk slammed the previous Biden administration for its immigration policies, specifically naming an app that was used by nearly 1 million people to be allowed into the U.S. on two-year permits with eligibility to work. He accused Biden and Democrats of doing that as an investment to get more support in swing states. A lot of people dont quite appreciate that this was an actual real scam at scale to tilt the scales of democracy in America, Musk said before Newsmax host Rob Schmitt asked him, Treason? Musk responded, Treason.When Schmitt asked him if he would consider auditing the Federal Reserve, Musk responded, Yeah, sure, while were at it. Waste is pretty much everywhere, Musk said.The billionaire joked that Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has told him he is worried about his security and said he was open to ideas on how to improve his safety measures.President Bukele from El Salvador, who managed to put in prison like a hundred thousand murderous thugs, and he called me. I am worried about your security, he said the Central American leader told him. Im like, Dude, you are worried about my security?When asked to describe what is like inside his mind, Musk replied: My mind is a storm. Its a storm.Steve Bannon, a popular Trump ally who once served as his chief strategist, followed Musks appearance and acknowledged he was not the evenings top attraction as he took the stage to a far less enthusiastic reception.How did I draw the card to follow Elon Musk? Bannon asked about a man he has frequently criticized as insufficiently loyal to Trump. Cmon man! You bring out the worlds wealthiest guy, Superman. Im supposed to follow it? Im just a crazy Irishman!_____Associated Press writer Jill Colvin contributed from New York. ADRIANA GOMEZ LICON Gomez Licon writes about national politics for The Associated Press. She is based in Florida. twitter mailto

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., speaks to reporters after meeting with Vice President JD Vance and fellow Republicans to discuss President Donald Trump's agenda at a luncheon, at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)2025-02-20T23:27:03Z WASHINGTON (AP) Senators are ready to stay up all night, launching a budget vote-a-rama late Thursday in a crucial, if dreaded, step toward unleashing a $340 billion package President Donald Trumps team says it needs for mass deportations and security measures that top the Republican agenda.If ever there was a time to watch Congress in action this might be it. Or not. Senators will be voting in rapid-fashion for hours on one amendment after another diving into intricate policy details, largely from Democrats trying to halt the package. The end result will be a final push by the Republicans, expected in the early hours of the morning, to use their majority power to pass it on a party-line vote.What were doing today is jumpstarting a process that will allow the Republican Party to meet President Trumps immigration agenda, Senate Budget Committee chair Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said while opening the debate. Graham said Trumps top immigration czar told senators that the administrations deportation operations are out of money and need more funding from Congress to detain and deport immigrants. With little power in the minority to stop the onslaught, Democrats will instead use the all-night debate to force GOP senators into potentially embarrassing votes including the first one, on blocking tax breaks to billionaires.This is going to be a long, drawn out fight, warned Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. Days like today, where we vote on amendments late into the night, go a long way in revealing where each party stands and who each party is fighting for, the New York senator said. Democrats are glad to have this debate.The package that senators are pushing forward is what Republicans view as a down-payment on Trumps agenda, part of a broader effort that will eventually include legislation to extend some $4.5 trillion in tax breaks and other priorities. Thats being assembled by House Speaker Mike Johnson in a separate budget package that also seeks up to $2 trillion in reductions to health care and other programs. Trump has preferred what he calls one big, beautiful bill, but the White House is open to the Senates strategy of working on the border package first, then turning to tax cuts later this year. Whats in the Senate GOP packageThe Republican Senate package would allow up to $175 billion to be spent on border security, including money for mass deportation operations and building the U.S.-Mexico border wall, in addition to a $150 billion boost to the Pentagon and about $20 billion for the Coast Guard.But even if the Senate pushed the package to approval in the all-night session, there wont be any money flowing just yet. The budget resolution is simply a framework that sends instructions to the various Senate committees Homeland Security, Armed Services, Judiciary to hammer out the details. Everything will eventually be assembled in another package, with another vote-a-rama, down the road.Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., the No. 2-ranking Senate Republican, said GOP lawmakers are acting quickly to get the administration the resources they have requested and need to curb illegal border crossings. The budget will allow us to finish the wall. It also takes the steps we need toward more border agents, Barrasso said. It means more detention beds... It means more deportation flights.Republicans insist the whole thing will be paid for, rather than piled onto debt, and they are considering various options with both spending cuts and new revenues. The committees may decide to rollback the Biden administrations methane emissions fee, which was approved by Democrats as part of climate change strategies in the Inflation Reduction Act, and hoping to draw new revenue from energy leases as they aim to spur domestic energy production. Democrats are ready for battleFirst up from Democrats will be a vote to prevent tax breaks for billionaires, according to a person familiar with the planning and granted anonymity to discuss it.Democrats argue that the GOP tax cuts approved in 2017 flowed to the the wealthiest Americans, and extending them as Trump wants Congress to do later this year would extend the giveaway.Schumer launched a strategy earlier this week to use this first budget debate to focus on both the implications of the tax policy and also the Trump administrations Department of Government Efficiency, which is slashing across the federal government. Its a better strategy for Democrats than arguing against tougher border security and deportations, which divides the party.Sen. Patty Murray, the top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, said the single biggest driver of the national debt since 2001 has been a series of Republican-led tax cuts.And youll never guess what our Republican colleagues on the other side of the aisle are focused on right now, nothing to lower the cost of eggs, its actually more Republican tax cuts, Murray said. She called the budget plan a roadmap for painful cuts to programs families count on each and every day, all so they can give billionaires more tax cuts. Congress is racing itself The budget resolution is setting up whats called the reconciliation process, which used to be rare, but is now the tool often used to pass big bills on party-line votes when one party has control of the White House and Congress, as Republicans do now. But Republicans are arguing with themselves over how to proceed. The House is marching ahead on its big, beautiful bill, believing they have one chance to get it right. The Senate views its two-bill strategy as more practical, delivering on border security first then turning to taxes later.Budget rules allow for passage by a simple majority vote which is key in the Senate where it typically takes 60 votes to break a filibuster on big items. During Trumps first term, Republicans used the reconciliation process to pass GOP tax cuts in 2017. Democrats used reconciliation during the Biden presidency era to approve COVID-19 relief and the Inflation Reduction Act.Trump appears to be stirring the fight, pitting Republicans in the House and Senate against each other to see which one delivers fastest.

After her standout role in Joker: Folie Deux and a successful soundtrack album Harlequin, Lady Gaga is ready to take fans on a new musical journey with her highly anticipated album Mayhem. The pop icon has officially revealed the 14-track list for the album, which promises to showcase her signature style of boundary-pushing artistry. This week, Lady Gaga shared the full tracklist for MayhemSource

Gabby Windeys rise from an ER nurse and NFL cheerleader to a reality TV star and LGBTQ+ icon has been nothing short of remarkable. With her deadpan humor and candid personality, she has captured the attention of audiences everywhere, particularly on TikTok, where she has amassed more than 750,000 followers. Her content often includes biting jokes about men, the Y chromosome, and her thoughts onSource

DarNisha Hardaway poses with her son Joseph, 12, at home in Detroit, Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)2025-02-20T22:20:45Z WASHINGTON (AP) It was obvious to Christine Smith Olsey that her son was not doing well at school, despite educators telling her to leave it to the experts. The second-grade student stumbled over words, and other kids teased him so much he started to call himself an idiot. Though her son had been receiving speech and occupational therapy, Smith Olsey said his Denver charter school resisted her requests for additional academic support. She filed a complaint with the state and then, in September, the Education Departments Office for Civil Rights. In January, her sons case came to a halt. I have to postpone meetings with you to discuss the case, a department mediator wrote to her on Jan. 23, three days after President Donald Trumps inauguration. I am sorry for the inconvenience. I will be in touch as I am able. As Trump began to reshape the Education Department, investigations and mediations around disability rights issues came to a standstill. Standing up for children with disabilities has been a primary role of the departments civil rights office, which enforces protections guaranteed under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Historically, most complaints to the department have involved disability discrimination parents saying their disabled child is not receiving accommodations they need to learn, which schools must provide under federal law. Its not unusual for new presidential administrations to freeze cases while they adjust priorities, but exceptions typically are made for urgent situations, such as a childs immediate learning situation. The freeze on pending cases and Trumps calls to dismantle the department altogether left many parents worrying about the federal governments commitment to disabled students rights. In the first weeks of the Trump administration, the Education Department has launched investigations of complaints involving antisemitism and transgender athletes allowed to compete in womens sports, delivering on Trumps vow to use federal funding as leverage to assail perceived wokeness in schools. Its worrisome the administration has said so little about responding to complaints from families of students with disabilities, said Catherine Lhamon, who led the Office for Civil Rights under former presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama. If it is not aggressively engaged in protecting those rights, the office is not doing its job, Lhamon said in an interview. An Education Department spokesperson said the Office for Civil Rights ended the pause on its review of disability complaints Thursday, after The Associated Press asked for comment on the findings of reporting for this story. The Trump administration lifted its pause on disability cases sooner than the Biden administration did in its first months in office, spokesperson Julie Hartman said. Progress stalled for families relying on federal intervention The freeze had upended progress for families like Smith Olseys, whose childrens special education services may hinge on the outcomes of the departments dispute resolution process. Its a scary time right now to be a parent of special needs kiddos, Smith Olsey said.Her son has been diagnosed with attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder, autism, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, a learning disorder caused by differences in parts of the brain involved with numbers and calculations. Since preschool, he has had an individualized education program for a developmental delay. This month, the school agreed her son needs extra academic help, but she is seeking compensatory services to make up for time he went without adequate support. She also is seeking reimbursement for money she spent out of pocket on therapy, tutoring and testing. When families believe their child is not receiving adequate services for their disability, filing a complaint with the Education Department is one way of prompting districts to provide additional help. Parents may also file a complaint with state agencies or pursue litigation. Education Department serves as referee of disability rights cases Between 2021 and 2024, the departments Office for Civil Rights received 27,620 complaints related to disability rights. The office is required to process all complaints it fields, but politics can play a role in setting priorities and choosing which cases to pursue.Typically, more than half of the complaints to the department have involved disability discrimination, but last year accusations of sex discrimination surged to account for a majority of them, according to an annual report. Disability discrimination accounted for 37%, while discrimination over race or national origin accounted for 19%.In recent years, the office has seen a significant decline in its staffing, even as the number of cases it must look into has increased.Parents and advocates say they are concerned about the future of the departments oversight role as Trump and his nominee for education secretary, Linda McMahon, outline a vision for a dramatically reduced footprint for the agency. At her confirmation hearing, Democrats pressed McMahon on whether she would support the departments enforcement role in disability rights. She suggested the Department of Health and Human Services could take over that work.There is a reason the Department of Education exists, and it is because educating kids with disabilities can be really hard, Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., said during the hearing. It takes national commitment to get it done.The freeze leaves families feeling outraged and adriftIn the fall, DarNisha Hardaway was relieved when an Education Department mediator found her sons school needed to reevaluate him and provide tutoring. She had filed a complaint with the department after a series of suspensions that she said stemmed from her son being overwhelmed and not getting enough academic help. The 12-year-old has an intellectual disability, autism and epilepsy. The Education Department, Hardaway said, made the school system do what theyre supposed to do.If the school district broke the mediation agreement, she was told to contact the Office for Civil Rights again. This month, after her son had an outburst in class, his suburban Detroit school told her he would need to learn online for the rest of the year a ruling Hardaway saw as a violation of his disability accommodations. On Tuesday, an Office for Civil Rights representative told her they could not respond with any substantive information.Every day she waits, her son learns in front of a computer. He cant learn online, and DarNisha is not a teacher, said Marcie Lipsitt, who is working with the family. The OCR is just closed for business, and Im outraged.Complaints about racial discrimination in schools are also pending. Tylisa Guyton of Taylor, Michigan, filed a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights on Jan. 20 over her 16-year-old sons repeated suspensions from a suburban Detroit school district, alleging a white administrator has been targeting him and a group of other Black children. The teen has been out of school since Dec. 4 with the latest suspension, and she has heard nothing about when he might be allowed to return or be placed in an alternative school. Since missing so much school, she doubts he will be able to graduate on time.I just feel lost, she said.___The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. COLLIN BINKLEY Binkley covers the U.S. Education Department and federal education policy for The Associated Press, along with a wide range of issues from K-12 through higher education. twitter mailto ANNIE MA Ma is an Associated Press national writer who covers K-12 education. twitter mailto

The sign outside the Internal Revenue Service building is seen. May 4, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)2025-02-20T23:29:41Z WASHINGTON (AP) The layoffs of roughly 7,000 IRS probationary workers beginning this week likely mean the end of the agencys plan to go after high-wealth tax dodgers and could spell disaster for revenue collections, experts say.The majority of employees shown the door at the federal tax collector are newly hired workers focused on compliance, which includes ensuring that taxpayers are abiding by the tax code and paying delinquent debts, among other duties.The IRS layoffs, one of the largest purges of probationary workers this year across the government, could also hurt customer service and tax return processing during tax season this year, the union representing Treasury Department employees warned Thursday.The upheaval comes less than two months before the tax filing deadline and as the Department of Government Efficiency under Trump adviser Elon Musk seeks to shrink the size of the federal workforce in an effort to radically cut spending and restructure the governments priorities. Vanessa Williamson, a senior fellow at the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center, said on a Thursday call with reporters that the layoffs at the IRS will disproportionately harm enforcement efforts. When you underpay and understaff the IRS, the agency doesnt have the power or the resources it needs to go after wealthy tax evaders with their high priced lawyers, she said, adding, The result is, of course, a disaster for revenue. The Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2022, gave the IRS $80 billion and the ability to hire tens of thousands of new employees to help with customer service and enforcement as well as new technology to update the tax collection agency, though congressional Republicans later clawed back some of the money.Former IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel, appointed by Biden, placed a particular focus on aggressively auditing high-income tax cheats as well as executives who use business aircraft for their personal use while still writing it off as a tax expense and wealthy people who sought to get favorable tax treatment through Puerto Rico without meeting certain tax requirements. A Congressional Budget Office report issued last year describes how rescissions in funding for the IRS affect baseline projections of future revenues, offering a variety of scenarios depending on the severity of the cuts.A $5 billion rescission would reduce revenues by $5.2 billion from 2024 to 2034 and increase the deficit by $0.2 billion. A $20 billion rescission would reduce revenues by $44 billion and increase the deficit by $24 billion for the same period. A $35 billion rescission would reduce revenues by $89 billion and increase the cumulative deficit by $54 billion.If you starve the IRS, youll be providing a feast for the tax evaders, Williamson said. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said during his confirmation hearing last month that we do not have a revenue problem in the United States of America, we have a spending problem.However, both revenues and spending will be an ongoing point of contention for congressional Republicans, who are trying to come up with how to pay for extending provisions of President Donald Trumps Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The Penn Wharton Budget model estimates that permanently extending Trumps tax cuts would increase deficits by $4 trillion over the next decade. Chye-Ching Huang, executive director of NYUs Tax Law Center, called the layoffs misguided and said they will hurt everyday Americans who pay their taxes and count on the IRS to pay refunds on time while encouraging wealthy people and large businesses to cheat on their taxes.Doreen Greenwald, president of the National Treasury Employees Union, said: In the middle of a tax filing season, when taxpayers expect prompt customer service and smooth processing of their tax returns, the administration has chosen to decimate the whole operation by sending dedicated civil servants to the unemployment lines.The union representing IRS workers has already filed multiple legal challenges over the administrations mass layoffs. Mark Mazur, a former assistant secretary for tax policy at Treasury, said that since most of the laid-off workers were in the IRS small business and self-employment division, employees who had handled bigger corporate enforcement cases will be forced to stop their work and handle easier small-business cases.For sure this mean less enforcement activity, and the deterrence effect of audits will be diminished, he said.Representatives from Treasury, the IRS and the White House did not respond to Associated Press requests for comment on Thursday.___Associated Press writer Josh Boak in Washington contributed to this report. FATIMA HUSSEIN Hussein reports on the U.S. Treasury Department for The Associated Press. She covers tax policy, sanctions and any issue that relates to money. twitter mailto

The Kennedy Center has canceled a highly anticipated Pride concert that was set to feature the Gay Mens Chorus of Washington, D.C., and the National Symphony Orchestra. The concert, slated for May 21, was intended to be a highlight of WorldPride 2025, with the two groups collaborating on a performance titled A Peacock Among Pigeons. No official reason for the cancellation has been provided.Source

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum gives her morning news conference at the national palace in Mexico City, Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)2025-02-20T15:39:24Z MEXICO CITY (AP) Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum said Thursday she will propose constitutional reforms aimed at protecting Mexicos sovereignty after U.S. President Donald Trumps administration designated six Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.The U.S. designations have stirred worry in Mexico that it could be a preliminary step toward U.S. military intervention on Mexican territory in pursuit of the cartels, something Mexico sharply rejects.The Mexican people will not accept under any circumstances interventions, interference or any other act from abroad that could be harmful to the integrity, independence and sovereignty of the nation, Sheinbaum said.On Thursday, the designation of eight Latin America-based criminal organizations was published in the U.S. Federal Register, carrying out a Jan. 20 executive order by Trump. The U.S. hopes the designation, something usually reserved for terrorist groups with political rather than economic objectives, will increase pressure on the groups. Sheinbaum said during her daily press briefing Thursday that Mexico also wouldnt allow outside involvement in investigations or prosecutions without authorization and collaboration of the Mexican government. Former President Andrs Manuel Lpez Obrador, Sheinbaums predecessor, had already written into Mexican law limits to how foreign agents could operate in Mexico, limiting their independence and requiring that Mexican authorities be informed of their movements. Sheinbaum proposes enshrining those limits in the constitution. What we want to make clear in the face of this designation is that we do not negotiate sovereignty, Sheinbaum said. This cannot be an opportunity for the United States to invade our sovereignty.Her administration also proposed reforming the constitution to apply the most severe penalties available under law to foreigners involved in the building, smuggling and distribution of guns. Mexico has long demanded that the U.S. do more to prevent the flood of guns into Mexico from U.S. gun shops and manufacturers.Her Morena party and its allies hold majorities in both chambers of Congress and have been able to pass a number of other constitutional reforms. RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, arrives for talks with Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, at the Munich Security Conference, in Munich, Germany, Saturday, Feb.15, 2025. (Sven Hoppe/DPA via AP, Pool)2025-02-21T05:06:24Z KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Days before the third anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion, Ukrainians are as somber and tense as they were right before Moscow launched the war. Only now, they arent just worried about their longtime enemy.Ukraines stunning new threat comes from its once staunchest ally, the United States, whose support appears to be fading as President Donald Trump parrots the propaganda of Russian President Vladimir Putin while pledging to stop the fighting between the two countries.After their initial shock at Trumps false claims this week that Ukraine is led by a dictator who started the war with Russia, the Ukrainian people are rallying around a defiant President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who publicly criticized Trump for promoting Russian disinformation.Yes, hes not a perfect president, but hes not a dictator, said Kateryna Karaush, a 25-year-old tech worker from Kyiv who like many Ukrainians and even some Republicans in Congress is struggling to wrap her head around Trumps embrace of Russia, which represents a major about-face in U.S. foreign policy. It feels like the whole world is against us, Karaush said. Against long odds, Ukrainians with massive military support from the U.S. have prevented Russia from overtaking their country, even if roughly one fifth of it is now under Russia control.But after three years of war, both civilians and soldiers are exhausted. Hundreds of thousands have been killed or wounded, tens of thousands are missing, and millions have fled the country. The mood only became gloomier in recent days as Trump signaled his desire to rapidly bring the fighting to a close on terms that Zelenskyy and many in the West say are too favorable to Russia.After Trump called Zelenskyy a dictator for legally postponing an election last year -- and as reports emerged of U.S. and Russian officials meeting in Saudi Arabia to discuss a possible ceasefire without input from Ukraine, even some of Zelenskyys harshest domestic critics have begun defending him. We may have different opinions about Zelenskyy, but only Ukrainian citizens have the right to judge his support, said Yaroslav Zhelezniak, a lawmaker from the opposition party Holos. And to publicly criticize him too, because, in the end, he is our elected leader.Trumps harsh words for Zelenskyy have drawn criticism from Democrats and even some Republicans in the U.S. Congress, where defending Ukraine from Russia with tens of billions of dollars in military aid has had bipartisan support. But Vice President JD Vance admonished Zelenskyy for publicly warning Trump about falling for Russian disinformation.On Thursday, the deepening tensions led to the cancelation of a news conference that had been planned to follow talks between Zelenskyy and Trumps Ukraine envoy over how to end the war.A poll released Wednesday by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology put public trust in Zelenskyy at 57%. The survey was conducted Feb. 4 to Feb. 9 among 1,000 people living across Ukraine in regions and territories controlled by the Ukrainian government. We have a president whom we support. During war, we are united, said Larysa, a 52-year-old resident from the northeastern city of Kharkiv, who refused to give her last name due to security concerns. The political rift with the U.S. comes as Ukrainian forces, outnumbered and outgunned, increasingly struggle to hold back Russias slow but steady advances.Speaking from the front lines, some Ukrainian soldiers said they were not panicking yet, and not ready to give up the fight.Even if we dont get enough weapons or if funding is cut, that doesnt change our duty to (fight), said a Ukrainian officer who spoke on condition of anonymity in line with military rules. No shells? Well take up rifles. No rifles? Well grab shovels.On Wednesday, Trump echoed one of Putins frequent talking points, claiming Zelenskyy, whose term expired last year, must hold elections. But the idea has little traction within Ukraine even among opposition politicians, who recognize Zelenskyys right to postpone elections during wartime. Elections are not needed right now because they should only take place when we understand the framework of (a peace) agreement with Russia, said Volodymyr Ariev, a lawmaker from the opposition European Solidarity party. Holding elections now would only benefit the Kremlin, further dividing Ukrainians and installing a new president who could sign a deal favorable to Moscow.An adviser to Zelenskyy, Mykhailo Podolyak, gave an additional reason for holding off any election until there is peace: Russia might seek to interfere in an electoral process that would already face significant challenges.Millions of displaced Ukrainians living abroad would struggle to participate not to mention the hundreds of thousands Ukrainians living in Russian-occupied territories, whose ability to vote would be virtually impossible. Around 800,000 Ukrainians are currently serving in the armed forces, making it difficult for them to cast ballots without weakening the military. And those fighting would be unable to run for office a right guaranteed under Ukrainian law. Holding elections before a peace agreement with security guarantees is signed would be devastating for Ukraine, said Valerii Pekar, a professor at Kyiv-Mohyla Business School. The U.S. and Russia are now united in promoting the idea of elections first, then peace which is the quickest and cheapest way to bring Ukraine down.___Associated Press journalist Volodymyr Yurchuk contributed from Kyiv, Ukraine. HANNA ARHIROVA Arhirova is an Associated Press reporter covering Ukraine. She is based in Kyiv. twitter instagram mailto RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, right, shake hands ahead of their bilateral talks at Mariinskyi Palace in Kyiv, Ukraine, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (Carl Court, Pool Photo via AP, File)2025-02-21T05:09:17Z LONDON (AP) As the U.S. and Russia push ahead so far without Ukraine at the table on talks to end the war, political and military leaders in Europe are fleshing out details of a plan for European forces to help ensure Moscow does not attack again.After months of quiet discussions, the proposal has become increasingly public. It will likely be on the agenda when British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, two major backers of the idea, visit Washington on separate days next week for talks with President Donald Trump.Starmer, who will visit Thursday, has stressed that the force wont work without U.S. military might to back it up. Persuading Trump to provide it could be a tall order. What is the plan?The security guarantee that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy really wants is NATO membership. European members of the military alliance still back that goal, but the U.S. looks to have taken it off the table, along with Ukrainian hopes of regaining the fifth of its territory seized by Russia.In the absence of NATO membership, Zelenskyy has said that more than 100,000 European troops could be needed in Ukraine to guarantee the conflict does not flare up again after a ceasefire.But Western officials say whats being discussed is a reassurance force, not an army of peacekeepers posted along the 600-mile (1,000-kilometer) front line in Ukraines east. The proposal backed by Britain and France would see fewer than 30,000 European troops on the ground in Ukraine away from the front line at key infrastructure sites such as nuclear power plants backed by Western air and sea power.Under the plan, the front line would largely be monitored remotely, with drones and other technology. Air power based outside Ukraine perhaps in Poland or Romania -- would be in reserve to deter breaches and reopen Ukrainian airspace to commercial flights. That could include U.S. air power.There must be a U.S. backstop because a U.S. security guarantee is the only way to effectively deter Russia from attacking Ukraine again, Starmer said on Monday.What do the Americans say?Trump has long expressed the view that Americas NATO allies dont pull their weight and that Europe must do more for its own security.U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has told European allies that there will not be U.S. troops deployed to Ukraine, but has not ruled out American support such as air transport or logistics.Gen. Keith Kellogg, Trumps Ukraine envoy, said during a visit to NATO this week that all options must be kept on the table because the shape of any force will depend on the outcome of peace negotiations that have yet to be held.Jamie Shea, a former senior NATO official, said different people in the administration are sending different signals Who do you believe is an issue.Its unclear whether Ukraine will be happy with the proposal.Russia, meanwhile, has rejected the idea outright. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said deployment of troops from NATO nations, even if not under the banner of the alliance, will certainly be unacceptable for us. Are other European countries onboard?Britain, France and the Nordic and Baltic states that are the closest NATO nations to Russia appear most likely to play the main roles in any force.Italy has constitutional limits on the use of its forces. In some countries including The Netherlands, deploying troops would need parliaments approval.Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said his country, a key logistics base for support to Ukraine since the Russian invasion three years ago, will not send troops into its neighbor.After a hastily arranged meeting of European leaders in Paris this week to discuss the war, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said talk of a Europe-lead security force was premature. Scholz said he was a little irritated that peacekeeping forces were even being discussed at the wrong time. He insisted NATO not an independent European force must remain the foundation of security. Could the plan work?The success of the plan depends on the nature of any agreement to stop the fighting. Russia has some 600,000 troops in Ukraine, and analysts say any ceasefire deal that leaves the bulk of them there is a recipe for renewed conflict.Frances military has just over 200,000 personnel, Britains less than 150,000. Matthew Savill, director of military sciences at the Royal United Services Institute, said Europe would struggle to mount a force even in the tens of thousands. European countries will have a limited ability to deploy something that can be sustained for multiple rotations, potentially over several years, he said.And it could be many years. Michael Clarke, visiting professor in war studies at Kings College London, noted that peacekeeping forces in Cyprus and Lebanon have remained in place for decades.If it is successful, it will last 20 or 30 years, he said. If it is not successful, it will break down into fighting inside two years. Lithuanian defense minister Dovil akalien said there was truth in the Trump administrations painful criticism of Europes defense spending and military strength.Russia is preparing for a long war, she told the AP. They have now three times the manpower and their defense industry is moving quicker than that of Europe. Does anybody believe that this is only aimed at Ukraine?What is the use of security guarantees from a weak party? Europe needs to muscle up right now to be actually able to provide security guarantees that will hold.___Lorne Cook in Brussels and Emma Burrows in London contributed to this story. JILL LAWLESS Lawless is an Associated Press reporter covering U.K. politics and more. She is based in London. twitter mailto

White House national security adviser Mike Waltz speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)2025-02-20T20:46:48Z WASHINGTON (AP) A top White House official said Thursday that President Donald Trumps increasingly tough criticism of Volodymyr Zelenskyy reflects the administrations growing frustration with what they see as the Ukrainian leader creating roadblocks to finding an endgame to Russias invasion of Ukraine.The comments from White House national security adviser Mike Waltz came a day after Trump described Zelenskyy as a dictator and warned that he better move fast to negotiate an end to the war or risk not having a nation to lead. Zelenskyy earlier Wednesday had said Trump was living in a Russian-made disinformation space.His frustration with President Zelenskyy that you heard is multifold, Waltz said Thursday of Trump. There needs to be a deep appreciation for what the American people and the American taxpayer, what President Trump did in his first term and what weve done since. Theres some of the rhetoric coming out of Kyiv, frankly, and insults to President Trump (that) were unacceptable. Waltz, speaking at a White House press briefing, did not respond when asked whether Trump sees Russian President Vladimir Putin as a dictator and didnt directly answer a separate question about whether Trump thinks Zelenskyy or Putin is more responsible for the war. The escalating rhetoric comes just days before the third anniversary of Russias war in Ukraine and as the U.S. posture toward both countries has dramatically shifted under the new Trump administration. Trump has been pushing for a peace deal between the two countries while blaming Zelenskyy for allowing the war to start in the first place not mentioning that Putin ordered the invasion of a sovereign nation. Waltz noted that Trump is also frustrated that Zelenskyy rejected an offer presented last week by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent that would have given the U.S. access to Ukraines critical minerals as repayment for U.S. support during the war as well as future aid for Ukraine. U.S. officials also presented the deal during a meeting between Vice President JD Vance and Zelenskyy in Munich days after the Bessent meeting. But Zelenskyy directed his ministers not to sign off on deal, which he believed lacked sufficient security guarantees for the Ukraine side and was too U.S.-focused. Rather than enter into some constructive conversations about what that deal should be going forward, we got a lot of rhetoric in the media that was incredibly unfortunate, Waltz said of the Ukrainians decision to decline the American offer.Trump earlier this week suggested Ukraine was to blame for starting the war even though the smaller nation was invaded by Russia in February 2022. Asked whether Trump believed Putin or Zelenskyy was more responsible for the grinding war, Waltz offered a roundabout response.His goal here is to bring this war to an end, period, Waltz said of Trump. And there has been ongoing fighting on both sides. It is World War I-style trench warfare.The back-and-forth comes amid an escalation of tension between the two leaders and rising concern in many European capitals over the Trump administrations reengagement with Russia. Trump dispatched Secretary of State Marco Rubio, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Waltz to engage in preliminary talks in Saudi Arabia with Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov and Putins foreign affairs adviser, Yuri Ushakov.Zelenskyy and some European officials criticized Trump for holding the talks without Ukrainian or European representatives at the table. AAMER MADHANI Madhani covers the White House for The Associated Press. He is based in Washington. twitter mailto RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

Children play in the ruins of the Church of Virgin Mary, which was destroyed by the Islamic State group in 2015, in the northeastern Syrian village of Tel Nasri, which is currently controlled by the U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)2025-02-21T05:14:11Z TEL TAL, Syria (AP) It was a mournful moment for Christians in Syria. A bell that once summoned residents to worship rang out, but the church was no longer there.The Saint Odisho church was blown up by the Islamic State group a decade ago, leaving Tel Tal village almost empty of residents.A local Christian who fled the attack, Ishaq Nissan, walked the streets and pointed to uninhabited homes, explaining where families had gone: U.S., Australia, Canada or Europe.This month, northeast Syrias remaining Christians will mark the 10th anniversary of the IS attack on over 30 villages along the Khabur river. On Feb. 23, 2015, dozens of Christians were killed or wounded and over 200 were taken hostage. Churches were blown up, and thousands of people fled.The anniversary comes as Christians worry about the future of Syria following the ouster of longtime president Bashar Assad in December by insurgents led by the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group. HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa is now interim president, and most government members come from Islamic factions. Al-Sharaa has repeatedly said religious rights will be protected in post-Assad Syria. Though HTS had been an al-Qaida affiliate, it is opposed to IS and fought deadly battles with it over the years. IS was defeated in Syria in 2019, but sleeper cells still carry out attacks. Since Assads fall, there have been some attacks by others targeting Christians. In December, a Christmas tree was set on fire in Suqailabiyah village. Authorities called it an isolated incident. We hope as Christians that there will be cooperation between all parties of Syria in what gives everyone their rights, Syriac Orthodox Archbishop Maurice Amsih, who leads the church in the northeast, told The Associated Press.Amsih said Christians in Syria are opposed to Islamic rule: We want them to treat us in a civil way. Western countries have pressed Syrias new authorities to guarantee the rights of religious and ethnic minorities, as well as those of women. The vast majority of Syrians are Sunni Muslims, while about a quarter of the population is Christian, Druze or Alawite.Christians made up about 10% of Syrias prewar population of 23 million, co-existing with the Muslim majority and enjoying freedom of worship under the Assad government. The last parliament speaker under Assad was Christian.But since civil war began in 2011 with a popular uprising against Assad and a government crackdown, hundreds of thousands of Christians have left the country. The rise of IS, and its attack 10 years ago, helped to drive them out.We were living in peace and never expected this dark day to happen in our modern history, said Elias Antar Elias, a Tel Tal resident who represents the villages of the Khabur river region in the Kurdish-led administration in northeast Syria.The 78-year-old and his family fled in the middle of the night as the extremists stormed one Christian village after another, horrifying the population that had lived in relative peace for decades. Elias, a retired teacher, fled with his family to the northeastern city of Hassakeh and stayed until Kurdish and Christian fighters regained control of their hometown months later.We saw the beheaded bodies of Christians on the side of the road as dogs were eating them, Elias said, calling it an image that pains our hearts.Elias said Tel Tal had about 400 residents before the IS attack. Today, there are about 30.At the spot where the Saint Odisho church once stood, Elias recalled its importance: This is where we baptized our children. This is where I got married.Asked why his family didnt leave for good like many others, he replied: Im in love with this place. Our graves and martyrs are here. This is our land.The archbishop said 34 Christian villages along the Khabur river were home to 45,000 Assyrians before the 2015 attack.Amsih said about 2.2 million Christians were in Syria before the civil war, and he estimated that two-thirds of them have left the country. In nearby Tel Nasri, Christian residents have left and the village is full of displaced people from other regions. The Church of Virgin Mary still stands but is badly damaged after being blown up in 2015.Some Christians who witnessed the violence say they have no plans to leave Syria, even with uncertainty ahead under new leaders.Janet Chamoun was praying in a church in Qamishli in 2015 when a car bomb exploded outside, throwing her and her daughter to the floor. Glass shattered and some people were injured.Despite the fear we decided to stay, Chamoun said outside the repaired Virgin Mary Syriac church, where she still comes every day to pray.Our home and roots are here, she said.