Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are asking a federal judge to dismiss U.S. drug trafficking charges against them, arguing they are protected from prosecution by sovereign immunity. In court papers filed Wednesday in Manhattan, Maduro’s attorneys argued that U.S. courts cannot criminally prosecute a foreign leader who was recognized by his own country as its sitting head of state when the charges were brought. Flores’ attorneys separately argued that she is also protected from U.S. prosecution on sovereign immunity grounds. Maduro, 63, and Flores, 69, have pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from an alleged conspiracy to send cocaine into the United States. Prosecutors accuse Maduro of working with Venezuelan law enforcement to help drug traffickers move large quantities of cocaine into the country. The couple is scheduled to stand trial June 1. U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein has scheduled arguments on their motions to dismiss the indictment for Nov. 17.

Read More...

A reported U.S. airstrike hit a home where a wedding was being celebrated in southern Iran, killing four people and wounding more than 60 others, according to Iranian state media. The strike happened in a coastal town along the Strait of Hormuz during the latest round of U.S. military operations in Iran. State media reported that two women and two children were among those killed. A rights group said one of the children was instead killed in a separate strike on a nearby communications tower. Experts who reviewed images of missile fragments shown by Iranian media said the debris appeared consistent with a precision American-made weapon. The reported strike comes as fighting between the United States and Iran continues, with Iran also launching attacks against U.S. allies in the Gulf region.

Read More...

Sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln are getting some time on land in Thailand after a lengthy deployment supporting U.S. military operations against Iran in the Middle East. Crew members streamed into the beach city of Pattaya after the aircraft carrier arrived for a port call. The stop comes after the Lincoln spent more than 260 days at sea, setting a record for the carrier. The extended deployment had raised concerns about crew mental health and reports of food shortages aboard the ship, although Navy officials downplayed those concerns. Sailors said they were excited for the opportunity to spend time in Thailand after months at sea. The USS Abraham Lincoln is expected to leave Thailand this weekend and continue its journey home.

Read More...

In an interview, Brenda Diaz, a 25-year veteran teacher and at-large candidate for the Montgomery County Board of Education, discusses the challenges facing Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). Diaz highlights several critical issues, including inadequate classroom temperatures, a significant maintenance backlog, and a focus on testing rather than comprehensive education. She points out that less than half of African-American students and less than 35 percent of Hispanic students in the county are reading at a third-grade proficient level, revealing a stark achievement gap. Diaz also emphasizes the impact of behavior management problems and the removal of school resource officers, which she believes has contributed to increased violence and drug abuse in schools. As a result, many parents are choosing to homeschool or enroll their children in private schools. Diaz advocates for a return to traditional educational methods, including the use of whole textbooks and physical engagement in learning, and calls for a more independent and critical approach from the Board of Education to address these systemic issues.

Read More...

Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano is under scrutiny for his handling of cases involving violent offenders and illegal immigrants. Sean Kennedy from Virginia's Virginians for Safe Communities discusses two recent cases highlighting the problematic decisions made by Descano's office. In one case, an 18-year-old who groped multiple high school girls was charged with a misdemeanor instead of sexual battery, receiving a lenient sentence and subsequently deported. In another case, a killer who admitted to his crimes was released on an insanity plea, underscoring the systemic issues within the prosecutor's office. Descano's approach, rooted in prison abolitionism, has led to numerous investigations and criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Kennedy argues that these failures in justice not only endanger the community but also highlight the limited recourse available to victims when local prosecutors refuse to act.

Read More...

The Lindsey Clancy trial has sparked widespread discussion on motherhood, postpartum health, and justice for the victims. However, Terry Schilling, president of the American Principles Project, brings a unique perspective by focusing on the impact on fathers and men. Schilling, a father himself, emphasizes that while the suffering of women is recognized, men are also victims who deserve attention and understanding. He highlights the emotional toll on fathers, using Patrick Clancy's case as an example, and discusses how societal views on feminism and abortion rights might be contributing to a skewed perspective on such tragedies. Schilling warns that without justice for the victims, it could deter young men from pursuing fatherhood, exacerbating existing societal issues. This conversation sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of fathers and calls for a balanced view on such sensitive cases.

Read More...

Mark Ruffalo's controversial comments regarding the Paramount Warner Bros. merger have sparked significant backlash, with Paramount denouncing his remarks as invoking anti-Semitic tropes. Hollywood has seen a notable response, with George Clooney and over 170 Jewish figures in entertainment defending Ruffalo. This discussion dives into the reasons behind Ruffalo's statements and why Hollywood often struggles to recognize anti-Semitism when it comes from within its ranks. Joining us is Bonnie Glick, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who recently wrote about Ruffalo's comments for The Daily Wire. Glick discusses how Ruffalo, amidst his social justice advocacy, has found a scapegoat for his lack of success in Hollywood—the Jewish community. She highlights the problematic nature of his claims, which link the merger to Israel and "scary technologies," asserting that such rhetoric is not only unfounded but also deeply divisive. Glick contrasts Ruffalo's divisive approach with the strategies of successful entertainers like Dolly Parton and Michael Jordan, who avoided alienating their audiences by refraining from taking political stands. Glick also addresses the perplexing support for Ruffalo from some Jewish figures in Hollywood, despite the anti-Semitic undertones of his comments. She emphasizes the importance of standing against hate speech and ensuring that the principles of free speech do not shield harmful rhetoric. The conversation underscores the necessity for all Americans, regardless of their background, to reject anti-Semitism and uphold the values of equality and respect.

Read More...

**Join the Conversation About the State of Education in America** In this eye-opening episode, the speaker dives into the world of education in America, where the lines between learning and indoctrination are increasingly blurred. With the rise of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs and the push for critical race theory in schools, parents are left wondering what their children are really learning. The speaker is joined by Corey DeAngelis, a leading expert on education policy and a fierce advocate for school choice. The conversation covers the alarming trends in public education, from the indoctrination of children with far-left ideologies to the lack of accountability in schools. The speaker and Corey DeAngelis discuss the importance of parents being involved in their children's education and the need for school choice as a means of protecting kids from the negative effects of government-run schools. They also touch on the role of teachers' unions and their influence on education policy. The episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the state of education in America. The speaker and Corey DeAngelis explore the ways in which the education system is failing our children and the steps we can take to reclaim our schools and our values. From the impact of DEI programs to the importance of parental involvement, this conversation is a wake-up call for parents and educators alike. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode as the speaker and Corey DeAngelis discuss the future of education in America. Tune in to hear their insights and join the conversation about the importance of school choice and the need for accountability in our schools. Follow Carl Jackson: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carljacksonradio X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/carljacksonshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarljacksonshow Website: http://www.TheCarlJacksonShow.com Store: https://CarlJacksonStore.com

Read More...

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — According to officials, authorities are responding to a shooting in Minneapolis with multiple victims, including two police officers. The Minneapolis Police Department has warned the public to stay away from the area Wednesday afternoon. No additional information was immediately released about the number of people wounded and their condition. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said in a post on social media that state officials are on the ground helping local law enforcement respond to the shooting. Walz said in the post: "Minnesota is praying for our first responders.”

Read More...

Sept 2 (Reuters) - A U.S. Coast Guard-operated Gulfstream V jet carrying Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin safely diverted to Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday after suffering an engine failure. The pilot declared an emergency after the right engine failed, and safely landed at Reagan, according to Mullin and air traffic control audio. "The United States Coast Guard pilots made the single engine landing feel routine," Mullin said on X. "No panic, just straight professionalism."

Read More...

Scott Jennings sits down with Rep. Bryan Steil to discuss the growing debate over socialism in America. Steil argues that socialist policies threaten individual freedom, economic opportunity, and the principles of the American system. The conversation examines why he believes socialism has no place in the United States and the importance of preserving free-market principles.

Read More...

Police in Arizona have confirmed that a shooting at a Tucson gay bar that left three people dead, including the shooter, was a hate crime. The suspect, 44-year-old Ousman Ceesay, was new to the Tucson area and did not know the victims, the Tucson Police Department said in a news release Tuesday night. While searching his home, detectives found a note that “indicated he acted alone and that this shooting was a targeted attack motivated by hate toward the LGBTQIA+ community,” the department said.

Read More...

WASHINGTON, Sept 2 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump met with major travel company executives on Wednesday including representatives from American Airlines, Marriott, MGM Resorts and Carnival amid a decline in international visitors. U.S. tourism got a big boost from the FIFA World Cup this summer. Travel spending rose 6.2% year over year in June to $122.1 billion, its strongest monthly reading in a year and FIFA reported its best-ever attendance at this summer's tournament. In 2025, international arrivals to the U.S. fell 5.5%, with travel officials citing a number of factors including lengthy visa interview wait times, higher airline ticket prices, stricter immigration policies, tariffs, and U.S. travel restrictions for some countries. Overseas visitors are down another 4.7% through July 2026, the Commerce Department said. Visitors from Canada fell 20% last year amid tensions and has impacted U.S. tourism destinations like Las Vegas and in border states. The number of Las Vegas tourists fell by 7.5% in 2025. Trump is meeting with members of the U.S. Travel Association and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is also set to attend. Other companies taking part include Caesars Entertainment, Hard Rock International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Venetian and Raffles & Fairmont. White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers said Trump is meeting with travel companies "to celebrate the accomplishments that produced a historic summer travel season and delivered a strong boost to our local economies and small businesses." The White House noted that it has made airport screening easier, allowing passengers to keep shoes on and adding family screening lanes at some airports. It also aims to create more biometric fast lanes for returning U.S. citizens and quicker international connections to domestic flights. The industry faced a number of hurdles over the last year as partial government shutdowns snarled airport security lines and flights. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin in May threatened to halt border processing at Newark and potentially other airports in so-called "sanctuary cities." Travel groups warned that it could lead to chaos, strand thousands of tourists and Americans trying to get home, and prevent crucial cargo shipments.

Read More...

WASHINGTON, Sept 2 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the renewed U.S. campaign against Iran would not continue for "too long" after the biggest exchange of fire between Tehran and Washington since July. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that Iran was trying to build a rocket that drops mines and the U.S. had destroyed it. He also said Iran had been working to restore its radar and missile systems, which were also targeted in the U.S. strikes. "We took out all of the new equipment that they tried to build along the Strait of Hormuz - some defensive, some offensive ... It was a very heavy attack last night, and we're prepared to do another one any time we want," he said.

Read More...

NEW YORK (AP) — Oil giant Chevron is confirming that it is expanding its operations in Venezuela, just days after President Donald Trump announced an ambitious deal to develop the nation’s oil reserves and give the Pentagon a stake in the profits. Chevron said Wednesday that it has been assigned additional acreage in the Orinoco Belt, where the company has an established position. Joint venture plans include investing more than $7 billion over the next five years, more than doubling production to approximately 600,000 barrels a day compared with 2026.

Read More...

PLYMOUTH, Mass. (AP) — Jurors in the Lindsay Clancy trial have gone home without a verdict after a fifth day of deliberations. They have twice said they can’t agree on whether the Massachusetts mother is criminally responsible for killing her three young children. The jury will return on Thursday. The judge told them to keep deliberating when they said for a second straight day that they were at an impasse. This raises the chance of a hung jury and the trial ending without a resolution. Clancy doesn’t deny strangling her three children in 2023. Her attorney argues postpartum psychosis led to her actions, while prosecutors say she knew what she was doing.

Read More...

Hugh Hewitt discusses whether President Trump’s strategy toward Iran has changed amid escalating tensions. He concludes that his approach remains largely the same, relying on sanctions, pressure, and the threat of military action. The administration is also focused on keeping oil and gas flowing from the Arabian Gulf and limiting Iran’s impact on global energy markets.

Read More...

Mark lays out the theory—establishment Republicans are so bitter about voters rejecting their handpicked candidate, John Cornyn, they're willing to punish the very voters who defied them . A Talarico win would be the ultimate "I told you so" from the GOP establishment . But here's the reality: Texas Republicans can't afford sabotage . With recent polling showing Talarico leading Paxton the party needs to unify, or risk losing the Senate seat.  --- M and M Extra! If you love smart unscripted talk show chemistry, you’re in the right place. Two iconic talk radio hosts. One unfiltered daily conversation. No scripts. No spin. Just Mike Gallagher and Mark Davis breaking down the news the way it should be with zero apologies. Like and subscribe to youtube.com/@MandMExtra for more content. Watch full episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8EGNf1WbbwMRurHjD-q-sft3OQfbxop8 Check out highlight clips from all our shows: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8EGNf1WbbwPQn44WIEh9LfT3hP1lng9w

Read More...

PROVO, Utah (AP) — The murder case against the Utah man accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk is headed for trial. Defendant Tyler Robinson faces a potential death sentence if convicted. Utah District Judge Tony Graf on Tuesday sided with prosecutors who said they had “overwhelming” evidence that Robinson shot Kirk as he addressed a crowd last September in Orem, Utah. Robinson’s lawyers have tried to block the case from proceeding to trial. They said prosecutors didn’t give enough evidence to warrant seeking the death penalty. One of Robinson’s attorneys entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf following the decision. Kirk’s family called the ruling “an important step in our family’s pursuit of justice.” Posting on X, widow Erika Kirk wrote this after the court's decision Tuesday night: "STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE KIRK FAMILY: Today’s decision, which comes nearly a year since Charlie was taken from us, marks an important step in our family’s pursuit of justice for him. Every step in this process carries the weight of all that Charlie’s murder has taken from his family, especially his children who will grow up without their father. We are grateful to all who have continued to pray for us, support us, and stand with us through a year of unimaginable grief. As the next phase of the judicial process begins, our family remains united in our love for Charlie, our commitment to the pursuit of justice, and our prayer for a transparent and timely process."

Read More...

An adult was wounded in a shooting at a Virginia elementary school Wednesday morning, according to an official who responded to the scene and confirmed no children were injured. Jim Wood, a Waynesboro city council member whose district includes Westwood Hills Elementary School, said in a phone interview that the shooting was an isolated event and that the shooter is no longer a threat. He declined to further elaborate on the suspect's status. “This is a one-on-one incident,” said Wood, who was at a nearby event Wednesday morning and went to the scene. He later went to a church, where he said children were being reunited with their families. The adult victim was taken to a hospital with injuries not considered life-threatening, Wood said. Robin Lawson, a spokeswoman for Virginia State Police, also confirmed that initial reports indicate one adult was injured and no children were harmed. Waynesboro police have not yet released a full statement on the shooting, but Lawson said one would be forthcoming Wednesday afternoon. Wood said he could not identify the suspect or confirm any connection between that person and the victim. Video from local media showed several emergency vehicles outside the school. In social media posts, the school system confirmed police were “managing an emergency” Wednesday morning, later confirming that all “Westwood students, teachers, and staff are accounted for and are safe.” Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger said she was monitoring the incident. “My heart is with these young students, their parents and families, and the teachers and staff at the school,” Spanberger said on social media. “Thank you to the first responders who are assisting at the scene.” Waynesboro is about 96 miles (155 km) northwest of Richmond.

Read More...

Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are asking a federal judge to dismiss U.S. drug trafficking charges against them, arguing they are protected from prosecution by sovereign immunity. In court papers filed Wednesday in Manhattan, Maduro’s attorneys argued that U.S. courts cannot criminally prosecute a foreign leader who was recognized by his own country as its sitting head of state when the charges were brought. Flores’ attorneys separately argued that she is also protected from U.S. prosecution on sovereign immunity grounds. Maduro, 63, and Flores, 69, have pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from an alleged conspiracy to send cocaine into the United States. Prosecutors accuse Maduro of working with Venezuelan law enforcement to help drug traffickers move large quantities of cocaine into the country. The couple is scheduled to stand trial June 1. U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein has scheduled arguments on their motions to dismiss the indictment for Nov. 17.

Read More...

A reported U.S. airstrike hit a home where a wedding was being celebrated in southern Iran, killing four people and wounding more than 60 others, according to Iranian state media. The strike happened in a coastal town along the Strait of Hormuz during the latest round of U.S. military operations in Iran. State media reported that two women and two children were among those killed. A rights group said one of the children was instead killed in a separate strike on a nearby communications tower. Experts who reviewed images of missile fragments shown by Iranian media said the debris appeared consistent with a precision American-made weapon. The reported strike comes as fighting between the United States and Iran continues, with Iran also launching attacks against U.S. allies in the Gulf region.

Read More...

Sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln are getting some time on land in Thailand after a lengthy deployment supporting U.S. military operations against Iran in the Middle East. Crew members streamed into the beach city of Pattaya after the aircraft carrier arrived for a port call. The stop comes after the Lincoln spent more than 260 days at sea, setting a record for the carrier. The extended deployment had raised concerns about crew mental health and reports of food shortages aboard the ship, although Navy officials downplayed those concerns. Sailors said they were excited for the opportunity to spend time in Thailand after months at sea. The USS Abraham Lincoln is expected to leave Thailand this weekend and continue its journey home.

Read More...

In an interview, Brenda Diaz, a 25-year veteran teacher and at-large candidate for the Montgomery County Board of Education, discusses the challenges facing Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). Diaz highlights several critical issues, including inadequate classroom temperatures, a significant maintenance backlog, and a focus on testing rather than comprehensive education. She points out that less than half of African-American students and less than 35 percent of Hispanic students in the county are reading at a third-grade proficient level, revealing a stark achievement gap. Diaz also emphasizes the impact of behavior management problems and the removal of school resource officers, which she believes has contributed to increased violence and drug abuse in schools. As a result, many parents are choosing to homeschool or enroll their children in private schools. Diaz advocates for a return to traditional educational methods, including the use of whole textbooks and physical engagement in learning, and calls for a more independent and critical approach from the Board of Education to address these systemic issues.

Read More...

Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano is under scrutiny for his handling of cases involving violent offenders and illegal immigrants. Sean Kennedy from Virginia's Virginians for Safe Communities discusses two recent cases highlighting the problematic decisions made by Descano's office. In one case, an 18-year-old who groped multiple high school girls was charged with a misdemeanor instead of sexual battery, receiving a lenient sentence and subsequently deported. In another case, a killer who admitted to his crimes was released on an insanity plea, underscoring the systemic issues within the prosecutor's office. Descano's approach, rooted in prison abolitionism, has led to numerous investigations and criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Kennedy argues that these failures in justice not only endanger the community but also highlight the limited recourse available to victims when local prosecutors refuse to act.

Read More...

The Lindsey Clancy trial has sparked widespread discussion on motherhood, postpartum health, and justice for the victims. However, Terry Schilling, president of the American Principles Project, brings a unique perspective by focusing on the impact on fathers and men. Schilling, a father himself, emphasizes that while the suffering of women is recognized, men are also victims who deserve attention and understanding. He highlights the emotional toll on fathers, using Patrick Clancy's case as an example, and discusses how societal views on feminism and abortion rights might be contributing to a skewed perspective on such tragedies. Schilling warns that without justice for the victims, it could deter young men from pursuing fatherhood, exacerbating existing societal issues. This conversation sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of fathers and calls for a balanced view on such sensitive cases.

Read More...

Mark Ruffalo's controversial comments regarding the Paramount Warner Bros. merger have sparked significant backlash, with Paramount denouncing his remarks as invoking anti-Semitic tropes. Hollywood has seen a notable response, with George Clooney and over 170 Jewish figures in entertainment defending Ruffalo. This discussion dives into the reasons behind Ruffalo's statements and why Hollywood often struggles to recognize anti-Semitism when it comes from within its ranks. Joining us is Bonnie Glick, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who recently wrote about Ruffalo's comments for The Daily Wire. Glick discusses how Ruffalo, amidst his social justice advocacy, has found a scapegoat for his lack of success in Hollywood—the Jewish community. She highlights the problematic nature of his claims, which link the merger to Israel and "scary technologies," asserting that such rhetoric is not only unfounded but also deeply divisive. Glick contrasts Ruffalo's divisive approach with the strategies of successful entertainers like Dolly Parton and Michael Jordan, who avoided alienating their audiences by refraining from taking political stands. Glick also addresses the perplexing support for Ruffalo from some Jewish figures in Hollywood, despite the anti-Semitic undertones of his comments. She emphasizes the importance of standing against hate speech and ensuring that the principles of free speech do not shield harmful rhetoric. The conversation underscores the necessity for all Americans, regardless of their background, to reject anti-Semitism and uphold the values of equality and respect.

Read More...

**Join the Conversation About the State of Education in America** In this eye-opening episode, the speaker dives into the world of education in America, where the lines between learning and indoctrination are increasingly blurred. With the rise of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs and the push for critical race theory in schools, parents are left wondering what their children are really learning. The speaker is joined by Corey DeAngelis, a leading expert on education policy and a fierce advocate for school choice. The conversation covers the alarming trends in public education, from the indoctrination of children with far-left ideologies to the lack of accountability in schools. The speaker and Corey DeAngelis discuss the importance of parents being involved in their children's education and the need for school choice as a means of protecting kids from the negative effects of government-run schools. They also touch on the role of teachers' unions and their influence on education policy. The episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the state of education in America. The speaker and Corey DeAngelis explore the ways in which the education system is failing our children and the steps we can take to reclaim our schools and our values. From the impact of DEI programs to the importance of parental involvement, this conversation is a wake-up call for parents and educators alike. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode as the speaker and Corey DeAngelis discuss the future of education in America. Tune in to hear their insights and join the conversation about the importance of school choice and the need for accountability in our schools. Follow Carl Jackson: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carljacksonradio X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/carljacksonshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarljacksonshow Website: http://www.TheCarlJacksonShow.com Store: https://CarlJacksonStore.com

Read More...

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — According to officials, authorities are responding to a shooting in Minneapolis with multiple victims, including two police officers. The Minneapolis Police Department has warned the public to stay away from the area Wednesday afternoon. No additional information was immediately released about the number of people wounded and their condition. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said in a post on social media that state officials are on the ground helping local law enforcement respond to the shooting. Walz said in the post: "Minnesota is praying for our first responders.”

Read More...

Sept 2 (Reuters) - A U.S. Coast Guard-operated Gulfstream V jet carrying Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin safely diverted to Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday after suffering an engine failure. The pilot declared an emergency after the right engine failed, and safely landed at Reagan, according to Mullin and air traffic control audio. "The United States Coast Guard pilots made the single engine landing feel routine," Mullin said on X. "No panic, just straight professionalism."

Read More...

Scott Jennings sits down with Rep. Bryan Steil to discuss the growing debate over socialism in America. Steil argues that socialist policies threaten individual freedom, economic opportunity, and the principles of the American system. The conversation examines why he believes socialism has no place in the United States and the importance of preserving free-market principles.

Read More...

Police in Arizona have confirmed that a shooting at a Tucson gay bar that left three people dead, including the shooter, was a hate crime. The suspect, 44-year-old Ousman Ceesay, was new to the Tucson area and did not know the victims, the Tucson Police Department said in a news release Tuesday night. While searching his home, detectives found a note that “indicated he acted alone and that this shooting was a targeted attack motivated by hate toward the LGBTQIA+ community,” the department said.

Read More...

WASHINGTON, Sept 2 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump met with major travel company executives on Wednesday including representatives from American Airlines, Marriott, MGM Resorts and Carnival amid a decline in international visitors. U.S. tourism got a big boost from the FIFA World Cup this summer. Travel spending rose 6.2% year over year in June to $122.1 billion, its strongest monthly reading in a year and FIFA reported its best-ever attendance at this summer's tournament. In 2025, international arrivals to the U.S. fell 5.5%, with travel officials citing a number of factors including lengthy visa interview wait times, higher airline ticket prices, stricter immigration policies, tariffs, and U.S. travel restrictions for some countries. Overseas visitors are down another 4.7% through July 2026, the Commerce Department said. Visitors from Canada fell 20% last year amid tensions and has impacted U.S. tourism destinations like Las Vegas and in border states. The number of Las Vegas tourists fell by 7.5% in 2025. Trump is meeting with members of the U.S. Travel Association and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is also set to attend. Other companies taking part include Caesars Entertainment, Hard Rock International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Venetian and Raffles & Fairmont. White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers said Trump is meeting with travel companies "to celebrate the accomplishments that produced a historic summer travel season and delivered a strong boost to our local economies and small businesses." The White House noted that it has made airport screening easier, allowing passengers to keep shoes on and adding family screening lanes at some airports. It also aims to create more biometric fast lanes for returning U.S. citizens and quicker international connections to domestic flights. The industry faced a number of hurdles over the last year as partial government shutdowns snarled airport security lines and flights. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin in May threatened to halt border processing at Newark and potentially other airports in so-called "sanctuary cities." Travel groups warned that it could lead to chaos, strand thousands of tourists and Americans trying to get home, and prevent crucial cargo shipments.

Read More...

WASHINGTON, Sept 2 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the renewed U.S. campaign against Iran would not continue for "too long" after the biggest exchange of fire between Tehran and Washington since July. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that Iran was trying to build a rocket that drops mines and the U.S. had destroyed it. He also said Iran had been working to restore its radar and missile systems, which were also targeted in the U.S. strikes. "We took out all of the new equipment that they tried to build along the Strait of Hormuz - some defensive, some offensive ... It was a very heavy attack last night, and we're prepared to do another one any time we want," he said.

Read More...

NEW YORK (AP) — Oil giant Chevron is confirming that it is expanding its operations in Venezuela, just days after President Donald Trump announced an ambitious deal to develop the nation’s oil reserves and give the Pentagon a stake in the profits. Chevron said Wednesday that it has been assigned additional acreage in the Orinoco Belt, where the company has an established position. Joint venture plans include investing more than $7 billion over the next five years, more than doubling production to approximately 600,000 barrels a day compared with 2026.

Read More...

PLYMOUTH, Mass. (AP) — Jurors in the Lindsay Clancy trial have gone home without a verdict after a fifth day of deliberations. They have twice said they can’t agree on whether the Massachusetts mother is criminally responsible for killing her three young children. The jury will return on Thursday. The judge told them to keep deliberating when they said for a second straight day that they were at an impasse. This raises the chance of a hung jury and the trial ending without a resolution. Clancy doesn’t deny strangling her three children in 2023. Her attorney argues postpartum psychosis led to her actions, while prosecutors say she knew what she was doing.

Read More...

Hugh Hewitt discusses whether President Trump’s strategy toward Iran has changed amid escalating tensions. He concludes that his approach remains largely the same, relying on sanctions, pressure, and the threat of military action. The administration is also focused on keeping oil and gas flowing from the Arabian Gulf and limiting Iran’s impact on global energy markets.

Read More...

Mark lays out the theory—establishment Republicans are so bitter about voters rejecting their handpicked candidate, John Cornyn, they're willing to punish the very voters who defied them . A Talarico win would be the ultimate "I told you so" from the GOP establishment . But here's the reality: Texas Republicans can't afford sabotage . With recent polling showing Talarico leading Paxton the party needs to unify, or risk losing the Senate seat.  --- M and M Extra! If you love smart unscripted talk show chemistry, you’re in the right place. Two iconic talk radio hosts. One unfiltered daily conversation. No scripts. No spin. Just Mike Gallagher and Mark Davis breaking down the news the way it should be with zero apologies. Like and subscribe to youtube.com/@MandMExtra for more content. Watch full episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8EGNf1WbbwMRurHjD-q-sft3OQfbxop8 Check out highlight clips from all our shows: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8EGNf1WbbwPQn44WIEh9LfT3hP1lng9w

Read More...

PROVO, Utah (AP) — The murder case against the Utah man accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk is headed for trial. Defendant Tyler Robinson faces a potential death sentence if convicted. Utah District Judge Tony Graf on Tuesday sided with prosecutors who said they had “overwhelming” evidence that Robinson shot Kirk as he addressed a crowd last September in Orem, Utah. Robinson’s lawyers have tried to block the case from proceeding to trial. They said prosecutors didn’t give enough evidence to warrant seeking the death penalty. One of Robinson’s attorneys entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf following the decision. Kirk’s family called the ruling “an important step in our family’s pursuit of justice.” Posting on X, widow Erika Kirk wrote this after the court's decision Tuesday night: "STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE KIRK FAMILY: Today’s decision, which comes nearly a year since Charlie was taken from us, marks an important step in our family’s pursuit of justice for him. Every step in this process carries the weight of all that Charlie’s murder has taken from his family, especially his children who will grow up without their father. We are grateful to all who have continued to pray for us, support us, and stand with us through a year of unimaginable grief. As the next phase of the judicial process begins, our family remains united in our love for Charlie, our commitment to the pursuit of justice, and our prayer for a transparent and timely process."

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An adult was wounded in a shooting at a Virginia elementary school Wednesday morning, according to an official who responded to the scene and confirmed no children were injured. Jim Wood, a Waynesboro city council member whose district includes Westwood Hills Elementary School, said in a phone interview that the shooting was an isolated event and that the shooter is no longer a threat. He declined to further elaborate on the suspect's status. “This is a one-on-one incident,” said Wood, who was at a nearby event Wednesday morning and went to the scene. He later went to a church, where he said children were being reunited with their families. The adult victim was taken to a hospital with injuries not considered life-threatening, Wood said. Robin Lawson, a spokeswoman for Virginia State Police, also confirmed that initial reports indicate one adult was injured and no children were harmed. Waynesboro police have not yet released a full statement on the shooting, but Lawson said one would be forthcoming Wednesday afternoon. Wood said he could not identify the suspect or confirm any connection between that person and the victim. Video from local media showed several emergency vehicles outside the school. In social media posts, the school system confirmed police were “managing an emergency” Wednesday morning, later confirming that all “Westwood students, teachers, and staff are accounted for and are safe.” Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger said she was monitoring the incident. “My heart is with these young students, their parents and families, and the teachers and staff at the school,” Spanberger said on social media. “Thank you to the first responders who are assisting at the scene.” Waynesboro is about 96 miles (155 km) northwest of Richmond.

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