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Opinion: Why isn’t the House Judiciary Committee looking into red flags about Clarence Thomas?

by Emma Walker – News Editor November 13, 2025

written by Emma Walker – News Editor

Jordan‘s Focus⁣ on Trump Raises Questions as Thomas Ethics Concerns Go⁤ Unaddressed

WASHINGTON – ⁢While ‍the Senate Judiciary Committee moves to‌ address ethical questions surrounding Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, the house Judiciary Committee,⁣ now led ⁣by Representative Jim Jordan,⁤ has conspicuously shifted its ‍focus to investigations benefiting former President Donald ⁤Trump, prompting criticism that‌ the committee is prioritizing partisan loyalty over its stated role‍ as “the lawyer for the House of Representatives.”

The ⁤contrast⁣ in ⁢approaches‌ comes ⁢as reporting continues to surface regarding financial dealings between Justice Thomas and Harlan Crow, raising concerns‌ about potential conflicts‍ of interest. In response,‍ the Senate ‍Judiciary⁢ Committee announced plans for a hearing “on the need to restore confidence in the Supreme ⁣Court’s ethical standards,” and Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Representative Hank Johnson have formally requested a referral of Thomas to the Attorney General for potential⁣ violations of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978.

However, the House ⁤January 6 committee’s report identified Jordan‍ as “a⁤ meaningful player in ⁣President Trump’s efforts” to overturn the 2020⁢ election. The report detailed Jordan’s involvement,‍ including ⁣leading a conference call on January 2, 2021, with Trump and other ⁢members of Congress to discuss strategies for‌ delaying the January⁤ 6th joint session. Despite a subpoena, Jordan refused to cooperate with the January 6‍ committee’s investigation.

This history has led to accusations that under Jordan, the⁢ House Judiciary Committee is now‍ functioning as “the lawyer for Donald ⁤J. Trump,” with taxpayers footing the bill for investigations aligned ⁢with the former president’s interests while⁣ legitimate ethical concerns regarding a Supreme court⁢ Justice appear to be⁢ sidelined.

November 13, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

Bahamas Getaway: Ferry, Snorkeling & Conch Salad

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor October 24, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

A Florida state panelist reportedly⁢ reacted with uncontrollable laughter to Governor Ron DeSantis‘ escalating dispute with ⁢The Walt Disney Company,describing physical discomfort ‍from the ‌amusement. The exchange occurred during a‌ meeting of‌ the Central Florida⁣ Tourism Oversight District, established earlier this year to oversee Disney’s Reedy Creek Improvement District.

The conflict stems from Disney’s opposition to Florida’s⁢ Parental ‍Rights in Education Act, dubbed‍ by‍ critics as the “Don’t⁢ Say Gay” law. Following Disney’s public criticism of the legislation ⁢in March 2022, ⁢DeSantis moved to dissolve the Reedy Creek district, which had granted⁣ Disney a degree⁢ of self-governance‌ for‌ decades. The subsequent⁢ creation of the CFTOD and ongoing legal ⁢battles represent a important power struggle between⁤ the state government and ⁤one of Florida’s largest employers. The panelist’s reaction highlights the unusual nature of the situation and the heightened political tensions surrounding ⁢it.

During the CFTOD meeting on October 24, 2023,‌ at‍ 14:17 EST, discussion centered on DeSantis’ recent vow to pursue⁢ further action against ⁣Disney, potentially including increased state control over ‌the company’s theme park infrastructure. A member of the ⁤oversight ‌board was overheard stating, “my stomach is hurting from laughing,” in response to DeSantis’ threats, according‌ to CNN reporting. ‌The comment underscored ‌the perceived imbalance of power in the⁣ dispute and the board’s apparent⁣ confidence in the state’s position.

The CFTOD⁣ is currently working to ⁣assert its authority over‌ Disney’s property, reviewing contracts and⁤ progress ⁣agreements previously approved by the Reedy Creek district. ‍Legal experts anticipate a⁤ protracted legal fight, with Disney likely to challenge any attempts to infringe upon⁢ its existing rights and agreements. The outcome of ⁢this dispute could ⁢have far-reaching implications for the relationship between businesses and state governments in ‌Florida and⁢ beyond.

October 24, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

Democrats bash Justice Clarence Thomas but their plan to investigate ethics allegations is unclear

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor September 18, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

Democrats Criticize Justice Thomas as Ethics Concerns Mount, But Path to Examination Remains Unclear

WASHINGTON ⁢- Democrats are intensifying criticism of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas following reports of undisclosed gifts and travel, but ⁢a clear plan for investigating the allegations remains elusive, highlighting the challenges of holding the high court accountable. The scrutiny comes as ethical questions surrounding the justices continue to grow, prompting calls for stricter oversight.

The latest ⁤wave of criticism centers on‌ reports detailing lavish trips and gifts Justice Thomas ⁣accepted from Republican megadonor Harlan Crow, raising concerns about potential conflicts‌ of interest. While Justice Thomas has defended his actions, stating he was ⁤not required to disclose the gifts⁤ under existing ethics rules, Democrats⁢ argue the situation underscores a need for⁣ a binding ⁤ethics‍ code for the Supreme Court.Justice Thomas, appointed by President George H.W.‌ Bush in 1991, has previously stated it wasn’t Congress’ place to push an ethics code ‌on the high court.

the debate unfolds against ‌a⁣ backdrop of existing ethical concerns surrounding Justice Thomas. Last year, CNN reported on communications between his ⁤wife, Ginni Thomas, a conservative activist, and Trump White House chief ⁢of staff Mark Meadows regarding‍ efforts to ⁢overturn the ‌2020 election, raising questions ⁢about potential conflicts requiring recusal.

Despite the mounting pressure, Republicans have largely resisted calls‌ for legislative action.Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican member of the Judiciary Committee,‍ suggested the accusations were part of a “multi-decade⁤ effort now to target Clarence Thomas by these liberal activist groups.” Other Republicans, like South Dakota Sen. John Thune, the GOP’s Senate Whip, maintain the court has historically “policed itself,” adding that Thomas has been a⁤ “solid justice on the court through the years and has acquitted himself well there.”

senator Lindsey Graham, the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee, ‌echoed ‍this sentiment, telling CNN, “Let’s see what the court does. I⁣ prefer them to do it⁤ internally.” This stance reflects a broader reluctance among⁢ Republicans to support legislation imposing an ethics code ⁣on the justices, leaving Democrats to grapple with limited options for addressing their concerns.

September 18, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

The US economy could depend on McCarthy corralling his extremist Republican troops

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor September 17, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

Debt ceiling Standoff Intensifies as McCarthy Faces Internal Pressure

WASHINGTON – A potential economic ‍crisis looms as Speaker Kevin mccarthy struggles⁤ to unite his Republican caucus around a ⁢plan to raise the debt ceiling, escalating a standoff with‍ the Biden‍ administration and raising concerns ‍of a possible US⁤ default. The‌ situation reached⁢ a new level of tension⁣ Monday as‍ McCarthy ⁣delivered a⁤ speech outlining Republican demands ⁢for spending cuts in exchange for raising the debt limit, but offered few specifics, fueling criticism from Democrats and even some within his own party.

The escalating dispute⁢ centers on the nation’s borrowing authority,‌ which must be raised‌ to avoid‍ a default‍ on existing financial obligations. Failure to do so could trigger a global economic downturn,impacting everything from Social Security payments to military salaries. The White House insists‌ on a “clean” debt ceiling increase – raising the limit without conditions – arguing that it’s a obligation to pay bills already incurred. However, House Republicans are⁢ seeking notable spending cuts, ⁣setting the stage ‌for a ⁤protracted negotiation with perhaps dire consequences.

“There is‍ one responsible solution to the debt limit: addressing it promptly, without brinksmanship or hostage taking – as Republicans did three times in the⁣ last administration and as Presidents Trump and Reagan argued for in office,” White ⁢House spokesman Andrew Bates said.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell,recently returned ‍to⁢ the Capitol after recovering from a fall,offered some‍ moral support to McCarthy,criticizing President Biden for not engaging in negotiations. “President Biden does not get to stick his fingers⁢ in his ears and refuse to listen, talk or negotiate. And the American people know that. The White House needs to stop wasting time and ⁤start negotiating with the Speaker of the House,” McConnell stated, while notably declining to⁣ directly participate in the talks.

The lack of concrete proposals from McCarthy has ‌drawn sharp criticism. Senate Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer‍ warned ‍of ⁤a potential default, stating, “He went all the way to Wall Street and ‍gave us no more details, no more facts, no new facts, and I’ll be blunt: If Speaker McCarthy continues in ⁤this direction we are headed⁢ to default.” ‍

The situation is rapidly moving toward a crisis point, with both sides digging in their heels. McCarthy’s challenge lies in corralling a‌ diverse Republican caucus, including a significant number⁣ of hardline conservatives who may demand concessions‍ that are unacceptable to the⁣ White House and moderate Republicans. The coming⁤ days will be critical in determining whether a compromise can be reached, or if the US economy faces a potentially catastrophic default.

September 17, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

McCarthy Slams Biden Over US Debt Ceiling Crisis

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor September 12, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

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‘What Changed, Mr. president?’: McCarthy Escalates Debt Ceiling Standoff with Biden

Table of Contents

‘What Changed, Mr. president?’: McCarthy Escalates Debt Ceiling Standoff with Biden

april⁤ 17, 2023

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy directly challenged President Biden’s ⁢approach to the looming debt ceiling crisis, signaling a firm resolve from the House GOP to demand significant spending cuts in exchange for⁤ raising the nation’s borrowing limit. The escalating rhetoric raises the specter of a potential default with far-reaching economic consequences.

Debt Ceiling Clash Intensifies

Speaker McCarthy, speaking from Wall Street⁢ on Monday, April ‌17, 2023, accused President Biden⁢ of shifting his position on negotiations regarding the debt ceiling. He framed the Republican position as a necessary step to address what he characterized as unsustainable federal spending.the core of the dispute centers on the House‍ GOP’s insistence on spending cuts‍ that would substantially curtail Biden’s domestic ‌policy initiatives.

The‌ United states is rapidly approaching its debt ‍ceiling – the legal limit⁤ on‍ the total amount of money the government can borrow. Failure to raise the debt ceiling could lead‍ to a default on U.S.obligations, triggering ⁢a financial crisis with⁤ global repercussions. The standoff impacts not only the U.S. economy but also international ⁣markets and investor confidence. The treasury Department has warned of⁤ potential catastrophic consequences if the debt ceiling is not addressed promptly.

McCarthy’s visit to Wall Street was⁣ intended to underscore the potential economic fallout of a default, appealing directly to ‍the ⁤financial community. He argued that responsible fiscal policy requires spending restraint and that the current trajectory of federal debt ⁢is unsustainable. The speaker emphasized that the House majority is prepared to⁢ stand firm in its demands, even if it means a prolonged negotiation with the White House.

The Biden governance maintains that raising the debt ceiling is a basic obligation and should not be used as leverage for political concessions. Officials have repeatedly called on republicans to lift ⁢the debt ceiling without preconditions,‌ arguing that a clean increase is necessary to avoid economic disaster. Though, McCarthy’s recent statements suggest a willingness to engage in ⁢a protracted battle over spending cuts.

Understanding the Debt Ceiling

The debt ceiling has been a recurring‍ point of contention in American ‌politics for decades.It’s not about ⁢authorizing new spending; it’s about allowing the government to pay for spending already approved by Congress. Historically,raising the debt ceiling has been a relatively routine process,but in recent years,it has become increasingly politicized.The Congressional ⁣Budget Office (CBO)⁢ provides detailed analysis of the debt ceiling and its potential impact on the economy. CBO Debt Ceiling Resources

The current debate reflects⁣ broader ideological differences⁢ over the role of government and the appropriate level of⁣ federal⁤ spending. Republicans generally favor spending cuts and fiscal conservatism, while Democrats tend to prioritize investments in social programs and economic stimulus. The outcome of this standoff ⁢will likely shape the economic and political landscape for years to come.

frequently Asked Questions About the Debt Ceiling

What is the debt ceiling?: The debt ceiling is the legal limit on the total amount of ⁤money the ⁤U.S. government can borrow to meet its existing legal obligations.
What happens if ⁣the debt ceiling isn’t raised?: If the⁢ debt ceiling isn’t raised, the U.S. government could default on its obligations, leading to a financial crisis and perhaps a recession.
Why is McCarthy demanding ⁣spending cuts?: speaker McCarthy argues that spending cuts⁣ are necessary to address the national debt and ensure responsible fiscal policy.
What is Biden’s position on

September 12, 2025 0 comments

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News

GOP blocks Democratic effort to replace Feinstein on Judiciary panel

by Emma Walker – News Editor September 12, 2025

written by Emma Walker – News Editor

GOP ⁣Blocks Effort to Temporarily Replace Feinstein ⁢on Judiciary Committee, Stalling Biden nominees

WASHINGTON – ‌Republican senators are blocking a ‌Democratic‍ effort ⁢to⁢ temporarily⁣ replace Sen.⁤ Dianne Feinstein on the⁤ Senate Judiciary Committee, further complicating President Biden’s efforts to confirm judicial nominees. Feinstein,⁢ 90, has been ⁢absent from the Senate due to ongoing health issues, creating a partisan impasse that threatens to grind ⁢the committee’s work to⁤ a halt.

The ‍stalemate ‌comes⁤ as Democrats hold a narrow majority in the Senate and ⁢rely on the Judiciary Committee to advance‍ nominees. Feinstein’s ‍absence has already led to‌ two resignations from the committee among House Democrats,⁣ and if a replacement isn’t found, more could‍ follow. The situation highlights the precariousness of ⁤the Democratic majority and the increasing politicization of judicial confirmations.

Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin‌ recently acknowledged to ‍CNN⁢ that Feinstein’s absence had slowed the party’s push ‌to confirm nominees, but stopped ⁢short of calling for her resignation. He expressed hope that‍ Republicans would temporarily replace her on the committee, stating, “the rain can fall on both ⁢sides of the road.” Durbin ‌confirmed her absence has “longer ramifications” for⁢ the Democrats’ ability to confirm nominees,citing the challenges of scheduling votes during limited‌ floor ⁣time.

However, Republican Sen. John Cornyn,⁢ a senior member of the⁢ Judiciary Committee and close adviser ‍to senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, ‌told‍ CNN he opposes any effort to replace Feinstein. “I don’t think Republicans can or should help President Biden’s most controversial nominees,” Cornyn said. “I support having Sen. feinstein come back as ‌soon as she can. but this effort to confirm⁢ controversial and in many instances largely unqualified nominees, I don’t ⁣think you can expect⁣ any Republican cooperation.”

September 12, 2025 0 comments

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