Trump-appointed federal judge rules against admin on Maine voter roll data

A federal judge appointed by President Donald Trump dismissed a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) lawsuit against Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows on Thursday.

The lawsuit, brought against Bellows in September, alleged that Maine violated federal election laws when the state refused to turn over data about Maine voters to the federal government.

Bellows argued that the DOJ did not provide an explanation for how it planned to use the data they requested, which included the names of everybody on Maine's voter rolls as well as driver's license numbers, partial Social Security numbers and full dates of birth.

She rejected the DOJ's request in August and then filed a motion to dismiss the federal lawsuit in December.

TRUMP-APPOINTED FEDERAL JUDGE TOSSES DOJ LAWSUIT SEEKING ARIZONA VOTER DATA

"The Gulf of Maine is awfully cold, but maybe that’s what the DOJ needs to cool down. So, here's my answer to Trump's DOJ today: Go jump in the Gulf of Maine," she said in a July news conference.

On Thursday, Maine Chief U.S. District Judge Lance Walker, who Trump appointed in 2018, granted Bellows' motion and dismissed the DOJ lawsuit.

"The United States' requests would require me to turn a blind eye to traditional practices of federalism and how those expressions have found expression in American elections," Walker said.

DOJ SUES SIX STATES FOR REFUSING TO TURN OVER VOTER REGISTRATION ROLLS, WARNS ‘OPEN DEFIANCE’ OF FEDERAL LAW

Bellows praised the ruling. "Today’s ruling affirms that the states, not the federal government, are in charge of our elections. From the moment the Trump Administration sought every American’s voter data, I said no. When they tried to bully me by suing Maine, I helped lead of coalition of states to fight back – and we’re winning. I will continue to defend every Mainer’s voting rights and their privacy," she said in a statement.

"Let me be clear – Trump and the DOJ may continue to try to interfere with free and fair elections run by the states. We will not let them," Bellows said. "Under our Constitution, states are the primary regulators and administrators of elections for federal office, unless Congress passes legislation that preempts that framework. And Congress’s power to do even that is itself subject to limitations."

The DOJ has sued 30 states for refusing to turn over unredacted lists of their voter rolls. Those lawsuits have been dismissed in Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Michigan, Oregon, Rhode Island and now Maine, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

The DOJ has not publicly commented on the dismissal.

Fox News Digital contacted the DOJ and Maine secretary of state for additional comment.

source https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-appointed-federal-judge-rules-admin-maine-voter-roll-data

Knicks star Josh Hart leaves Karl-Anthony Towns bewildered with hilarious analytics analogy

New York Knicks small forward Josh Hart was hitting shots both on the floor and in his press conference on Thursday.

Hart, who scored a playoff career-high 26 points in the Knicks' 109-93 win in Game 2 in the Eastern Conference finals over the Cleveland Cavaliers at Madison Square Garden, was asked about analytics and had a hilarious response.

"I'm never a huge analytics guy. At a certain point, they are a lamp post to a drunk person. You can lean on them, but it won't get you home," Hart told reporters.

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"At a certain point, you got to have a good feel for the game."

Hart’s quip drew laughs from reporters. Karl-Anthony Towns, who was on the podium with him, took off his glasses and looked at his teammate with a bewildered expression.

"Oh my god, bruh," Towns said.

Hart then credited the quote to his former Villanova coach and used his full name in doing so.

"I’m not going to lie that’s Jerold Wright, his quote. Shoutout Jay Wright."

Towns then stopped the press conference, not wanting to let Hart off the hook for the analogy.

ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW!

"Wait, hold on, we’re not moving on from that," Towns said.

"That’s a great quote," Hart responded.

He then explained the quote to Towns.

"I was with (Coach John Calipari at Kentucky), so I didn’t hear that," Towns said.

"You ain’t even go to college," Hart jokingly said back to Towns, who laughed.

In the Knicks’ Game 1 comeback win, Hart struggled mightily shooting. He had 13 points and made just one of his five 3-pointers.

Head coach Mike Brown substituted Hart out and inserted Landry Shamet, who helped spark the Knicks' fourth-quarter rally. In Game 2, the Cavaliers sagged off Hart, daring him to shoot 3-point attempts.

Unlike Game 1, Hart drained five of his 11 3-pointers and led the team in scoring. The Cavaliers' game plan defensively was to make Hart beat them, and that’s exactly what he did. Though he might not have used analytics to help his shooting turnaround.

Hart will look to stay hot from deep when the Knicks take on the Cavaliers in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET, with hopes of taking a commanding 3-0 series lead.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

source https://www.foxnews.com/sports/knicks-star-josh-hart-leaves-karl-anthony-towns-bewildered-hilarious-analytics-analogy

‘Seattle can’t survive this’: Critics hammer socialist mayor after Starbucks reversal

Seattle's Democratic Mayor Katie Wilson’s sudden about-face on Starbucks is fueling fresh fears that progressive politics and anti-business rhetoric are driving jobs, investment and major employers out of deep-blue cities.

Wilson, who previously urged residents to boycott the Seattle-based coffee giant, admitted in an interview published Sunday that her comments "caused more harm than good" as criticism mounts over the city’s business climate and the company’s growing investment outside Washington state.

The socialist mayor’s reversal comes as the corporation pours $100 million into a major Tennessee expansion and plans thousands of new jobs there, reigniting concerns that companies are increasingly choosing lower-tax, business-friendly southern U.S. states for future growth.

BLUE-STATE TAX BURDEN FUELS AMERICANS FLEEING TO REPUBLICAN-LED SOUTHERN STATES

Critics quickly seized on the controversy as evidence Seattle’s leftist politics are becoming increasingly hostile to business.

"If Starbucks doesn’t leave Seattle, they’re stupid," Tim Young, a media fellow at The Heritage Foundation, wrote on X.

Young blasted Wilson to Fox News Digital, arguing the socialist mayor lacks the real-world experience needed to understand the economic consequences of anti-business policies and rhetoric.

"Mayor Wilson is what happens when a spoiled child whose parents have been there to correct for all their financial issues for years is put into a place of authority," Young said. "She has no concept of consequences for her actions, especially when dealing with other people’s money."

"Seattle, nor any other jurisdiction in the world, can survive someone with literally no relevant life or business experience to run it," he added.

SOCIALIST MAYOR-ELECT REVEALS WHY SHE EMBRACED HER PARENTS GIVING HER MONEY AS A 43-YEAR-OLD

Others framed Wilson’s walk back as a sign Seattle's progressive leaders are beginning to recognize the economic stakes surrounding major employers like Starbucks.

"Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson walks back Starbucks boycott as Nashville expansion raises the stakes," conservative commentator Jason Rantz wrote on X.

Conservative radio host Ari Hoffman blasted Seattle leaders in a post on X, writing that the city is "once again a national embarrassment."

"This time, thanks to Socialist Mayor Katie Wilson telling everyone to boycott Starbucks the day she gets elected, then Starbucks announces they are leaving, and when asked about capital flight, she says ‘bye’ and giggles," Hoffman wrote.

SEATTLE MAYOR LAUGHS OFF MILLIONAIRES LEAVING WASHINGTON STATE OVER PROGRESSIVE TAXES, WAVES 'BYE'

Another X user mocked Wilson’s reversal, writing: "Bahahahaha. I was mocked when I told everyone insiders were updating me corporate was planning on leaving if she was elected. Her arrogance and disdain just made them move quicker."

The user, a conservative account focused on the Pacific Northwest, added: "Again, Starbucks will be out of Seattle for good by the end of 2026. Yes."

Pollster Scott Rasmussen also weighed in on X, arguing Wilson’s comments reflect broader voter concerns over whether high taxes and anti-business rhetoric are driving wealthy residents and investment out of blue states.

Rasmussen pointed to polling showing 61% of voters believe it is bad for a state when wealthy residents leave for lower-tax states.

Starbucks unveiled plans for a massive corporate expansion in Nashville, Tenn., just as Democrats in Washington state enacted a controversial "millionaires tax."

Critics warn the tax, of which similar version have been enacted and proposed in other blue states, could accelerate the flight of jobs, investment and wealthy residents from Washington.

The measure was signed into law by Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson in March and was championed by progressives. Conservatives and business groups fiercely opposed the proposal, warning it could make Washington less competitive as companies increasingly grow in lower-tax Republican-led states.

As Wilson attempts to soften her rhetoric toward one of Seattle’s most recognizable companies, critics warn the controversy could become a broader cautionary tale for blue states struggling to balance progressive politics with economic growth.

source https://www.foxnews.com/politics/seattle-cant-survive-critics-hammer-socialist-mayor-starbucks-reversal

Robot's lifeless corpse hauled off stage after fall during disastrous Michael Jackson impression

We're in the era of robotics before they enslave the human race, when we make them do fun stuff like fold our clothes and board Southwest flights.

However, I think we're playing it fast and loose because all it's going to take is one embarrassing Michael Jackson impression for a robot to go, "You know what? I'm done dancing for these meatbags," and rally its pals for a global takeover.

And now I believe we have that embarrassing, ill-fated Michael Jackson impression.

According to the Daily Mail, a video of a humanoid robot cutting a rug to the King of Pop's hit "Billie Jean" at a Future Era robot store in Shenzhen, China, has gone viral, and deservedly so.

It's absolutely hilarious.

Humanoid robots flipping out when they fall is my new favorite genre of viral video. I didn't think it would be possible to supplant people getting hurt on trampolines or French bulldogs surfing, but here we are.

I love the foreshadowing that comes from the first trip after its quasi-moonwalk sashay across the stage.

CHINA'S COMPACT HUMANOID ROBOT SHOWS OFF BALANCE AND FLIPS

It's my favorite thing about robots. I'm guessing it has to do with their array of sensors, but when a robot falls over, it starts flailing like a trout someone just hauled into their canoe. It's wild. I mean, we once saw a marathon-running bot break-dance itself to smithereens.

So, you knew that if that robot accidentally crotch-grabbed or "Smooth Criminal" leaned itself into that step, there's going to be a problem.

ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW!

And boy, were there.

As much as I love the initial robot face-plant, I don't think anything can top when the one guy has to come out and drag its lifeless robo-corpse offstage. The fact that they didn't even bother to pot down "Billie Jean" really helped make it a work of art, too.

Like I said, though, let's have our laughs now.

Because when robots decide they've had enough of us making them dance for our amusement, they'll be the ones laughing at us flailing on the floor.

source https://www.foxnews.com/outkick-culture/robots-lifeless-corpse-hauled-stage-disastrous-michael-jackson-impression

Cuban ex-President Raul Castro indicted on charges including murder, conspiracy to kill US nationals

Former Cuban President Raúl Castro has been indicted in connection to his alleged role in the 1996 downing of two planes operated by the Miami-based exile group Brothers to the Rescue.

The indictment, which a Florida grand jury returned in April, was unsealed Wednesday, Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said during an announcement in Miami on Wednesday. It charges Castro with conspiracy to kill U.S. nationals, destruction of aircraft and four separate counts of murder, Blanche revealed. 

The indictment stems from a February 1996 incident in which four Americans — Carlos Costa, Armando Alejandre Jr., Mario de la Peña, and Pablo Morales — were flying in civilian aircraft when Cuban military aircraft shot their planes down in international waters and killed them, the indictment alleges, according to Blanche. 

"They were unarmed civilians and were flying humanitarian missions for the rescue and protection of people fleeing oppression across the Florida Straits," Blanche said.

CUBA SAYS CIA CHIEF RATCLIFFE MET WITH OFFICIALS IN HAVANA AMID US TENSIONS

"As alleged in the indictment, Raúl Castro and five co-defendants participated in a conspiracy that ended with Cuban military aircraft firing missiles at those planes and killing four Americans," he continued. 

"Nations and their leaders cannot be permitted to target Americans. Kill them, and not face accountability," Blanche also said.

Joining Blanche in announcing the indictment were United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Jason A. Reding Quiñones, Deputy FBI Director Christopher Raia and Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier.

The indictment comes amid rising tensions in the Caribbean and a series of comments from Trump and his surrogates hinting at a regime change in Cuba. 

Uthmeier also hinted at a leadership change Wednesday.

"There can be no future for a free Cuba so long as the Castros and their criminal gang of thugs remain in power," Uthmeier said, to thunderous applause from the Miami crowd. "We now have the leaders that will pursue that which is right and just," Uthmeier added, concluding with "get ready, there's more to come. God bless America and God bless the free state of Cuba."

This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.

source https://www.foxnews.com/politics/cuban-ex-president-raul-castro-indicted-charges-murder-conspiracy-kill-us-nationals

Megan Rapinoe’s woke fans reject her luxury World Cup hospitality ticket sales pitch: 'Shill'

Picking one of the most miserable figures in sports, Megan Rapinoe, to influence exclusive World Cup hospitality ticket sales might not have been the smartest business decision.

The 40-year-old Rapinoe is being roasted on Instagram by her own fans for a "paid partnership" Instagram post the retired soccer vet posted on Monday.

"With hospitality, you get a guaranteed ticket with premium seating," Rapinoe promised. "With hospitality, you get a ticket plus dedicated entry, unlimited food and drinks, and plenty of time before and after the match to enjoy it all."

Sounds amazing, right? A quick check of the World Cup Hospitality website shows a price of $6,050 for one person to attend the June 12 USA-Paraguay match in Los Angeles, if you want access to the Pitchside Lounge.

Rapinoe's fans aren't happy that their hero is taking a check from FIFA to promote such elitism.

NYC MAYORAL CANDIDATE MAMDANI CALLS WORLD CUP TICKETS 'ABSURD' AT '$6,000' FOR FINAL GAME AT METLIFE STADIUM

"Too bad only the 1% can afford it," one of her fans replied on Instagram.

"Sad you are doing this Megan. They have out priced all the fans," wrote another fan.

Single-seat tickets to the USA-Paraguay match are selling for just over $1,000. The wokes who hate capitalism see this charade as Meg selling out for a paycheck.

"Rapinoe a shill for FIFA, how the mighty have fallen," an angry fan replied to her video.

Does Rapinoe even have the influence to move World Cup tickets? Outside the announcement of her breakup with her girlfriend, Sue Bird, Rapinoe isn't moving the Google Trends needle this year. Nothing says lack of energy for love of sports like Rapinoe telling fans to get excited about men's soccer when this woman is off running a Substack where she's writing about slowing down in life and smelling roses.

Just three people have replied to the post. Even the wokest of the wokes are ignoring poor Megan.

She's not calling for cheaper tickets. She's not standing up against exorbitant ticket prices — even her enemy, President Trump, has called for lower World Cup prices. From an outsider looking in, it appears that Megan just wants to make money for Megan while ignoring the regular Americans she claims to fight for.

Perhaps Rapinoe was a fraud all along. It just took some people longer to figure it out than the rest of us.

source https://www.foxnews.com/outkick-sports/megan-rapinoes-woke-fans-reject-luxury-world-cup-hospitality-ticket-sales-pitch-shill

Trump eyes new White House lawn project that could reshape presidential travel

President Donald Trump is reportedly considering installing a White House helipad for Marine One, the latest potential update to the executive mansion’s grounds. 

"President Trump has continued to make improvements at the White House and all around D.C. to benefit future presidents and Americans," White House spokesman Davis Ingle told Fox News Digital when asked about the reported consideration on Monday morning. 

The White House did not reveal additional details on the matter. 

The helipad would protect the South Lawn’s grass from the powerful engines of the newer helicopters used by the president, the Wall Street Journal first reported Monday. It is unclear who would fund building the possible addition.

GOLDEN EAGLES, LIONS AND A WINGED LADY LIBERTY TOP TRUMP'S PROPOSED 250-FOOT DC 'TRIUMPHAL ARCH' DESIGNS

Trump’s White House renovations and broader D.C. beautification push have drawn both praise from supporters and criticism from preservationists and political opponents.

TRUMP REVEALS FIRST PHOTOS AFTER LINCOLN BEDROOM'S RENOVATION IN THE WHITE HOUSE

Recently, Trump replaced the West Wing Colonnade with polished black granite flooring along the "Presidential Walk of Fame."

Trump's ongoing construction of the White House Ballroom has also returned to the spotlight after security concerns surrounding large presidential events intensified following the April shooting tied to the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

A 250-foot triumphal arch is proposed to sit near the Lincoln Memorial at a roundabout between Memorial Bridge and Memorial Avenue near the Arlington Cemetery Metro Stop.

WHITE HOUSE MAKEOVERS HAVE LONG SPARKED CONTROVERSY, WELL BEFORE PRESIDENT TRUMP'S $200M BALLROOM

Last year, President Trump directed the addition of stone pavers to the Rose Garden lawn, a change designed to better accommodate press conferences and ceremonial events which is now dubbed the "Rose Garden Club."

Throughout its 223-year history, the iconic residence has seen numerous updates — both large and small — under nearly every administration, including the creation of the first Oval Office in 1909 under the Taft administration, and the addition of the East Wing under President Franklin D. Roosevelt's tenure.

source https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-eyes-new-white-house-lawn-project-could-reshape-presidential-travel