Andrews McMeel Universal and Portfolio have both severed ties with Scott Adams, the creator of the popular comic strip "Dilbert," due to his racist remarks about Black Americans. Hundreds of newspapers have dropped the strip in response, and Adams has expressed uncertainty about his future publishing prospects. The incident has sparked a larger conversation about the consequences of racism and hate speech, and the responsibility of companies to take a stand against discrimination and hate.
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Jesse James Rumson, a Donald Trump supporter, was arrested on Monday for his involvement in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. Video footage shows him entering the Capitol through an emergency fire escape wearing a panda costume, and he has been charged with multiple offenses including assaulting an officer. This is the latest in a series of arrests related to the Capitol riot, and has sparked a renewed focus on Capitol security.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made a surprise visit to Ukraine to emphasize the US commitment to supporting Kyiv in the midst of its ongoing war with Russia. During her visit, Yellen discussed the US's efforts to hold Russia accountable, as well as the Federal Reserve's efforts to bring down inflation while maintaining a strong labor market. She also discussed the US's economic assistance to Ukraine, which has totaled $14 billion since the war began.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a law that gives him control over Walt Disney Co., in response to the company's criticism of his "Don't Say Gay" law. The law cancels the dissolution of a special taxing district for Disney's 25,000 acres south of Orlando, allowing DeSantis to replace the existing board with one of his own choosing. The law is expected to have a major impact on Central Florida, with Disney being a major employer and economic driver in the area.
The U.S. Virgin Islands Police Department is investigating the death of Jamie Cail, a 42-year-old former competitive swimmer from New Hampshire, who was found dead by her boyfriend after midnight on February 21st. Cail was a well-known athlete in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and had been living and working at a local coffee shop on St. John prior to her death. The Cail family has asked for privacy and requested anyone with information to contact the U.S. Virgin Islands Police Department.
The Supreme Court has agreed to review a case that could have a major impact on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The case centers around the Appropriations Clause of the Constitution, which states that "no money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in consequence of appropriations made by law." The CFPB was created in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis and its regulations are now at risk of being overturned by the Supreme Court. The court is expected to hear the case in the spring of 2021.
The Republican National Committee (RNC) has made it clear that any potential 2024 presidential candidates must pledge to support the party's nominee, or risk being banned from the debate stage. Former House Speaker Paul Ryan (R) has said he will not support Donald Trump in the 2024 election and RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel has given the clearest sign yet that 2024 GOP White House candidates will have to pledge to back the party's presidential nominee. This is a clear indication that the party is looking to move away from Trump's influence.
This article discusses the ongoing double murder trial of Alex Murdaugh, in which the defense has requested the jury visit the crime scene. The judge has allowed the request, and closing arguments are expected to begin on Wednesday. The outcome of the trial is still uncertain, but the visit to the crime scene is expected to help the jury better understand the case.