politics

Montana Lawmakers Vote To Ban TikTok From The State

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Lawmakers in Montana have voted to ban the use of TikTok in the state. The legislation will now make its way to the desk of Gov. Greg Gianforte. The bill would prevent app stores from offering downloads for the platform. It would also make Montana the first U.S. state to ban the app.

“The governor will carefully consider any bill the legislature sends to his desk,” said Brooke Stroyke, a spokesperson for Gianforte. In the past, the Governor has banned TikTok from state government devices.

Gov. Greg Gianforte At A MAGA Rally

BELGRADE, MT – NOVEMBER 03: Rep. Greg Gianforte (R-MT) joins President Donald Trump at a “Make America Great Again” rally at the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport on November 3, 2018 in Belgrade, Montana. (Photo by William Campbell/Corbis via Getty Images)

The bill will face serious legal opposition should it pass. Brooke Oberwetter, a spokesperson for TikTok, responded in a statement labeling the act “government overreach.” “The bill’s champions have admitted that they have no feasible plan for operationalizing this attempt to censor American voices and that the bill’s constitutionality will be decided by the courts,” they said. “We will continue to fight for TikTok users and creators in Montana whose livelihoods and First Amendment rights are threatened by this egregious government overreach.”

In recent years, U.S. politicians have expressed concerns that the Chinese government could potentially gain access to TikTok user data. They could use this for intelligence or propaganda campaigns. As of now, there is no evidence that the Chinese government has gained access to this information. However, FBI Director Christopher Wray has argued to Congress that “we’re not sure that we would see many of the outward signs of it happening if it was happening.”

NetChoice, a technology industry group, has argued that banning TikTok could set a dangerous precedent. “This move from the Montana legislature sets a dangerous precedent that the government can try to ban any business it doesn’t like without clear evidence of wrongdoing,” said Carl Szabo, NetChoice’s vice president and general counsel. “The US Constitution clearly forbids lawmakers from passing laws to criminalize a specific individual or business. Gov. Greg Gianforte should veto this clearly unconstitutional law.”

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Supreme Court Will Not Block $6 Billion Student Loan Debt Settlement

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Panorama of United States Supreme Court Building at Dusk

The Supreme Court allowed an approximate $6 billion legal settlement to go forward that will cancel student loans for hundreds of thousands of borrowers who say their schools misled them.

The class-action settlement was approved late last year by U.S. District Judge William Alsup in San Francisco in response to complaints that more than 150 schools had made false recruiting claims and left many students unable to find jobs.

The class-action settlement concerns loans that borrowers claim should be canceled because they were taken out based on misrepresentations made by their schools, many of which are for-profit. The settlement could be worth more than $6 billion. According to Reuters, three of the schools identified in the territory – for-profit Lincoln Educational Services Corp and American National University Inc as well as nonprofit Everglades College Inc – challenged the agreement after it was approved by a federal judge in California last November. Around 3,500 borrowers entitled to automatic loan discharge under the settlement attended one of the three schools.

It is important to note that this case is unrelated to President Joe Biden’s effort to forgive student loan debt, which is also before the justices, with a ruling due in the next two months. The Supreme Court is expected to deliver a verdict regarding the legal battle over President Biden’s loan forgiveness program in June. 

“The class-action settlement at issue here is a reasonable and statutorily authorized solution to the unprecedented problem posed by a flood of borrower-defense applications asserting a right to discharge under the applicable statute and regulations,” said Prelogar, the administration’s top Supreme Court lawyer.

The post Supreme Court Will Not Block $6 Billion Student Loan Debt Settlement appeared first on The Source.

Kanye West Not Running For President

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Kanye West is reportedly no longer running for President of the United States in the 2024 election, according to the Daily Beast. According to this report, the Chicago rapper will instead focus on his family and his private Christian school Donda Academy. Moreover, this news came specifically from Adam Camacho, a documentary producer that Kanye hired in November of last year. He spoke of originally joining his team to make a movie for Ye, but also said that communication with the rapper fizzled out after a contract extension. However, once Camacho reached out to him again, he reportedly told him of another direction

“Right now, I am living my life,” Kanye West allegedly told Camacho, based on the latter’s conversation with the Beast. “Like I’m concentrating on the school, The Donda Academy, and my new wife, and my kids, and that’s it. I just want to be left alone.” Another anonymous employee of the Yeezy boss backed up these claims. “His interests are focused on his children, family, and creative endeavors… Anyone that is representing Ye in any political capacity is a charlatan. There is no political shop.“

Kanye West Is No Longer In The U.S. 2024 Presidential Race

(Photo by Edward Berthelot/GC Images)

Unfortunately for Kanye West, his focus on Donda Academy is not as benevolent or unprompted as it may seem. Recently, two former teachers sued the 45-year-old for a slew of policies, including allegedly forcing kids to eat sushi every day and not allowing outside food. However, the charges also brought up much more serious charges, such as racial discrimination in hiring staff and wrongful termination.

“Ye West, I am so thankful for the opportunity to be at your school,” teacher Cecilia Hailey, one of the plaintiffs, expressed. “But things are not going the way they should, academically, socially or spiritually,” Hailey stated. “And you need to back down and try again with people who know what they’re doing, who can execute a vision, who can help you understand that we don’t know anything about producing albums, but we know how to educate. These children’s lives are in your hands and this vision, especially if you’re trying to carry out the vision of your mother, is just not working right now.” Even though he won’t run for President, the “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” artist still has a lot on his plate to make up for after a few months of intense controversy. Regardless, come back to HNHH for the latest updates and news from Kanye West.

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North Korea Fires Missile, Japan Orders “Take Cover”

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North Korea has been the subject of much debate and frustration for years on end. Kim Jong-Un frequently sees fit to threaten anyone who would dare stand against him. This has led to high tensions between not only North Korea and Japan but also North Korea and Japan. Over the last few years, Kim Jong-Un has made many mentions of nuclear weapons. Obviously, this has caused distress among many in neighboring countries. The dictator claimed late last year that North Korea would become the world’s “most powerful strategic force.” While that is unlikely, Kim has shown many signs of instability and a very short temper. Today, there was yet another reminder of this as North Korea fired a missile near Japan.

At approximately 7:23 AM, the country fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile from somewhere near Pyongyang. This comes just after Kim Jong-Un made comments about strengthening North Korea’s war deterrence. He told military leaders that they must act in a more “practical and offensive” way. The firing of the missile led to chaos. The Japanese government sent out an order for residents of Hokkaido to take cover. Luckily, the missile did not land in Japanese territory. However, the South Korean military is now on high alert. They are working closely with the United States to continue to monitor the situation.

North Korea’s History Of Threatening Behavior

North Korea has made many moves in recent years that could be considered threatening. Today’s missile launch is not the first of its kind, and it certainly won’t be the last given Kim’s history. In addition to threatening behavior, North Korea has also made extremely straightforward threats. Recently, the country enacted a new law. It states that nuclear weapons will immediately be launched in the event of an attack on their leader, Kim.

While the US has been mainly focused on denuclearization, Kim has stated clearly that he has no intention of complying. Addressing the country via the state media, Kim said, “(We will) never give up nuclear weapons and there is absolutely no denuclearization, and no negotiation and no bargaining chip to trade in the process.” With statements like these, it looks like a conflict may be inevitable. What do you think of the situation? Is there a way to avoid conflict? Let us know in the comments.

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Donald Trump Sues Former Lawyer For $500 Million

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It’s been one week since former President Donald Trump was arraigned on 34 federal charges. Most of the crimes Trump has been indicted for relate to “hush money” given to pornstar Stormy Daniels and other women during his 2016 election campaign. The charges were filed in New York, where Trump was based in 2016. Trump’s arraignment garnered widespread criticism from the political right.

Trump is no stranger to lawsuits, both as a defendant and plaintiff. He has a long history inside the courtroom. However, it seems that being arraigned has not quenched the former President’s desire to be in the legal spotlight. A new lawsuit has emerged, which Trump seeking repatriation from someone who was once one of his closest allies.

Trump Wants $500 Million From Cohen For Breach Of Contract

Michael Cohen was once the closest thing Trump had to a right-hand man. Trump has often had a close relationship with his lawyer, notably Roy Cohn in the 1980s. However, Cohen served as both Trump’s personal lawyer and fixer. However, things fell apart in 2018. Cohen, who had served as Trump’s lawyer for 12 years, pled guilty to charges filed as part of the Mueller Investigation. He was sentenced to three years in federal prison for campaign finance violations, tax fraud, and bank fraud. Cohen also testified against Trump, stating the campaign finance violations, which Trump would also be charged with in 2023, were done at Trump’s explicit behest.

However, Trump is now suing his former lawyer. According to the suit, filed in Miami, Trump is seeking $500 million for breach of contract, defamation, violation of an attorney-client relationship, and breach of a confidentiality agreement. These allegations revolve around books, podcasts, and media statements Cohen has given in recent years. In a statement, Trump’s current legal team stated that the former president had “no alternative but to seek legal redress.” Cohen’s representation was quick to respond, accusing Trump of “using and abusing the judicial system as a form of harassment and intimidation against Michael Cohen.” It is likely that this lawsuit will drag on for several months at a minimum. Trump will return to court for his federal charges in December.

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Stephen A. Smith Says Trump Is Not Racist

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Stephen A. Smith is no stranger to making a headline. The ESPN First Take host makes a headline almost every day. However, this headline doesn’t involve Smith’s usual sports takes. But rather his opinion on discussions in the political realm. Recently, Smith was asked about his thoughts on former United States President Donald Trump. At one time, Smith claimed to be friends with the former President. Now that seems like days gone by. However, Smith thinks he knows what has changed in Trump.

“I think he’s changed, but I will tell you this: I think when people call him racist and stuff like that, I’ve never thought of Trump that way. He’s not against black people, he’s against all things not named Trump.” Smith is of the belief that Trump only cares about what is best for him. But that Trump is not a racist like many claims to think he is. The media legend even discussed a phone call with Trump, which the former president discussed in hopes of attacking the NFL.

Stephen A. Smith Believes Trump Is Selfish

Smith went on to discuss his political beliefs. Saying, “I don’t believe that. I think that I have conservative views, I’m unapologetic about that…Am I beyond voting for a Republican? Absolutely not. I am beyond voting for Trump.” It is not often we see a sports figure discuss the topic of politics. The topic can turn ugly rather quickly. However, Smith, as he states, is unapologetic. The legendary sports host isn’t afraid to go where others might avoid.

The conversation with Stephen A. Smith was an interesting view. Usually, when sports and politics get mixed, it can be a headache for all involved. But Smith was an open book on his views. Plus, his thoughts on his former friend Donald Trump. Unfortunately, it is almost time for another United States Presidental Election circuit. I would much rather watch the Burger King Whopper commercial on loop than discuss politics. However, we want to hear your voice. What are your thoughts on Smith’s comments regarding Donald Trump? Let us know your opinions on the matter in the comment section. For the latest news in sports and politics, keep it locked in here at HNHH.

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President Joe Biden Likely To Seek Reelection In 2024

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President Joe Biden says he plans on seeking reelection in 2024. The 46th President spoke with NBC’s Today Show on Sunday prior to the annual Easter Egg Roll at the White House. Biden will have plenty of time to plan his campaign ahead of the election next November. Additionally, Biden says Vice President Kamala Harris is also likely to join him in seeking reelection. Seeking the highest offices in the land is certainly difficult. However, Biden is likely used to it by now. He won the Presidency in 2020 after a campaign impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, he had two successful runs for Vice President with Barack Obama in 2008 and 2012.

Although Biden did not make the announcement official, his 2024 run seems to be all but formality at this point. “I plan on running … but we’re not prepared to announce it yet,” he said. Moreover, the decision to seek reelection was heavily hinted at earlier this year by Biden’s wife. First Lady Jill Biden stated that her husband still had work to do during a speech in February. Meanwhile, Biden’s top advisers are also preparing for the campaign season. One person close to the administration told NBC News that the decision has already been made. “The decision part is over, but he resents the pressure to have to announce what he’s already decided,” the source said.

Joe Biden Plans Reelection Bid During Uncertain Time

Moreover, If and when Biden does confirm his run for 2024, it will hardly be surprising. It is extremely rare for first term Presidents to not seek reelection. In fact, only three first-term Presidents have chosen to forego a re-election bid, President Lyndon B. Johnson was the last to do it in 1968. Meanwhile, Biden would enter his 2024 campaign at an uncertain time. Mounting inflation has caused poll numbers to dip. Moreover, polling numbers for former President Donald Trump have increased following Trump’s arrest last week.

However, Joe Biden would be the overwhelming favorite in the Democratic primaries in 2024. Presently, the only other major Democratic figure to announce their campaign is activist and self-help author Marianne Williamson. Therefore, Biden and Trump may very well end up having a rematch of their 2020 election showdown. Biden has seen support from celebrities such as Cardi B, Rihanna and John Legend. We will see if this support can help him to another victory next November.

Dalai Lama Apologizes After Asking Child To “Suck” His Tongue

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The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism’s Gelug school. The title is passed down from leader to leader. Each subsequent individual chosen as the Dalai Lama is believed to be the reincarnation of the last. Reincarnation is a core tenant of Buddhism and the search for the Dalai Lama is done incredibly rigorously.

The currently serving Dalai Lama is the 14th individual to hold the name. He was born in 1935, took the title in the same year, and was officially enthroned in 1950. He currently lives in India as a religious refugee, after fleeing Tibet due to the increasing threat to Tibetan sovereignty from the Chinese government. The 14th Dalai Lama is widely considered one of the more popular world leaders. However, he has been forced to issue an apology after a viral incident raised more than a few eyebrows.

Dalai Lama Apologizes For Tongue-Sucking Comment

In a now-viral Indian media clip, the Dalai Lama is seen greeting a young Indian boy. They stick their tongues out at each other and touch foreheads before the religious leader appears to try and suck on the tongue of the child. As the child recoils, the Dalai Lama can be heard asking if he can suck on the boy’s tongue. The presentation of the tongue is a common greeting in Tibet. It stems from a folkloric tradition to check that someone is not the reincarnation of a cruel, black-tongue Tibetan king. However, the attempt to suck on the boy’s tongue went too far for some people.

A brief statement released on social media channels said that the Dalai Lama “apologizes to the boy and his family, as well as his many friends across the world, for the hurt that his words may have caused.” The statement goes on to say that the leader “regrets the incident”. However, it also notes that “His Holiness often teases people he meets in an innocent and playful manner”. The incident is likely a traditional greeting taken too far in the wrong context. Despite this, it does not take away from the shock that millions felt as the footage made its way across social media.

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Don Lemon Allegedly Slights Jon Stewart On Hot Mic

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Embattled CNN anchor Don Lemon is facing more controversy. Lemon had created a likeable image for himself during his time with the network. However, his reputation has taken a beating in 2023. Lemon was lambasted in February for sexist comments he made about presidential candidate Nikki Haley. Additionally, an article was released last week detailing Lemon’s alleged history of abuse towards CNN colleagues. Now, Lemon is accused of criticizing comedian and political commentator Jon Stewart on a hot mic.

TMZ reports that the latest incident happened during CNN Morning on Monday. Lemon threw to a story of Stewart interviewing U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks. During the interview, Stewart passionately derided what he considered waste by the DOD. “I can’t figure out how $850 billion to a department means that the rank and file still have to be on food stamps. To me, that’s f***ing corruption.” While the clip aired, Lemon could be heard talking to his co-anchors. “He gets a lot of leeway with the comedian thing, though,” he said. Evidently, Lemon didn’t realize his microphone was still on. After an awkward silence, Lemon attempted to clarify his thoughts on Stewart. “He’s so much more than a comedian,” he said.

Commenters Come to Jon Stewart’s Defense

Many commenters have called Lemon’s comments inappropriate. Moreover, many have pointed out that Stewart has done much more than just tell jokes. Stewart hosted the “Daily Show” for 16 years. The show combined humor with Stewart’s usual hard-hitting political commentary. Stewart has also spent much of his post-Daily Show career supporting military veterans. The show was so popular that it became many people’s primary source of news. Additionally, he has lobbied congress for greater support for 9/11 first responders.

For Don Lemon and CNN, this latest gaffe is an unwelcome event. Slumping ratings have been a cause for concern at the network. Additionally, the network is still recovering from the 2021 firing of former anchor Chris Cuomo. Cuomo’s unamicable split from the network is still fresh in the memory for many. Subsequently, many have wondered if Lemon will be the next anchor out the door. Lemon’s controversies have placed him firmly on the hot seat. We will see going forward if he is able to weather the storm.

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Gregg Popovich Speaks Out About Gun Control

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Gregg Popovich has never kept his political opinions to himself. Whether it’s saying that Trump’s election made him “sick to his stomach” or calling on politicians to address racial inequalities, Popovich has been a staunch advocate of liberal ideologies.

Guns are an ever-present element of American life and politics. The Second Amendment of the Constitution allows private citizens to own firearms and it is one of America’s most fiercely defended statutes. However, it is also one of the most hotly debated facets of American law. Mass shootings have become a common aspect of the news cycle, especially those that take place at educational institutions. However, despite tragedies such as the March 27 shooting at a Tennessee school, lawmakers in several states have pushed against gun control legislation. In some cases, states have passed laws that make firearms more readily available. This is despite a majority of Americans supporting stricter gun control. This trend led to Popovich speaking out over the weekend.

Popovich Blasts Lawmakers

During his media availability ahead of the Spurs’ April 9 regular-season finale against the Mavericks, Popovich gave a nine-minute speech about gun control. He primarily directed his comments at leaders in Texas, such as Governor Greg Abbott. “I just wondered because we have a governor and lieutenant governor and an attorney general that made it easier to have more guns…That was a response to our kids getting murdered. I just thought that was a little bit strange decision. It’s just me, though.” He also called out Texas Senator Ted Cruz by name as he lambasted the “myth of the Second Amendment”.

However, Popovich didn’t limit his comments to Texas alone. He also spoke about the Tennessee State House expelling two Black lawmakers for supporting a student-led gun control rally in early April. “I mean, we’ve got two young Black guys in Tennessee who just got railroaded by a bunch of people that I would bet down deep in their soul want to go back to Jim Crow. And what they just did is a good start. It’s beyond comprehension. And what were they guilty of? They actually protested?” Popovich said. With another mass shooting occurring earlier on April 10, Popovich’s words are likely to ring truer than ever.

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