Rupert Murdoch, Executive Chairman of Fox Corporation, has admitted in court documents that he was aware of Fox News hosts spreading false claims of widespread voter fraud after the 2020 election. He acknowledged that some Fox News hosts endorsed false claims, but said that Fox News was trying to straddle the line between conspiracy theories and truth. Despite his private opinion that their claims were false, Murdoch has declined to rein in Fox News hosts.
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Joe Calvello, a spokesperson for Sen. John Fetterman, released an update on Monday that Fetterman is doing well and on a path to recovery after receiving treatment for his clinical depression. Calvello noted that Fetterman's team is continuing to work for the people of Pennsylvania while he heals, and that they are encouraging people to seek help if they are struggling with mental health issues. The update serves as a reminder of the importance of taking care of one's mental health and that recovery is possible with the right support and treatment.
Kodak Black, a rapper known for his collaborations with Travis Scott, Lil Wayne, and Drake, has been issued an arrest warrant in Florida after failing to appear for a drug test and testing positive for fentanyl. The warrant was requested by the Broward County Sheriff's Office and Kodak Black is currently being held without bond. His legal troubles have been ongoing since 2019 when he was sentenced to 46 months in prison for falsifying documents to buy firearms.
Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida has signed a bill into law that strips Walt Disney World of its self-governing status and requires DeSantis to appoint a five-member board to oversee the government services provided in the theme park properties. The bill is seen as a way for DeSantis to gain political leverage and to punish Disney for its opposition to his “Don’t Say Gay” law, as well as to gain favor among conservative voters as he prepares for a potential presidential run.
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.
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.