politics

Don Lemon Returning To CNN After Sexist Remarks, Will Undergo Training

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CNN This Morning host Don Lemon faced backlash last Thursday (February 16th) after commentating on Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley’s age. The 56-year-old news anchor has been absent from the show and has participated in “formal training,” according to People. The network has announced that Lemon will be returning on-air this week. The controversy initially transpired after Lemon remarked that Haley was “past her prime.”

During a conversation with co-hosts Poppy Harlow and Kaitlan Collins, the trio discussed the former governor of South Carolina’s previous claim that politicians above 75 years old should be forced to take a mental competency test. Initially, Lemon commented on how the conversation about age made him “uncomfortable.” However, he was quick to add in his two bits by saying, “Nikki Haley isn’t in her prime. Sorry. A woman is considered to be in their prime in her 20s and 30s and maybe 40s.”

Lemon Publicizes Apology On Twitter

Correspondingly, Lemon received criticism for his “sexist” and “ageist” remarks. Soon after, the TV journalist took to Twitter to issue an apology. “The reference I made to a woman’s ‘prime’ this morning was inartful and irrelevant, as colleagues and loved ones have pointed out, and I regret it,” he wrote. “A woman’s age doesn’t define her either personally or professionally. I have countless women in my life who prove that every day.”

People also reported that the network chairman Chris Licht had personally discussed the issue with Lemon, as revealed by a memo released to CNN‘s staff. The same statement announced Lemon’s upcoming return to CNN This Morning. It read, “he has agreed to participate in formal training, as well as continuing to listen and learn. We take this situation very seriously. It is important to me that CNN balances accountability with fostering a culture in which people can own, learn and grow from their mistakes.”

Lemon’s Controversial Comments

According to the Times, Lemon also issued an apology to his CNN colleagues, stating, “I am sorry. I did not mean to hurt anyone. I did not mean to offend anyone.” Following his several-day hiatus, Lemon will return to CNN This Morning tomorrow (February 22nd). For more updates to circulating controversies, don’t forget to check out HNHH.

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Don Lemon To Miss Monday’s CNN Show After Sexist Remark

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Don Lemon will be absent from Monday’s episode of CNN This Morning, after making a sexist remark in reference to Nikki Haley, last week. Lemon had been speaking with co-anchor Poppy Harlow about Haley’s candidacy for the 2024 U.S. presidential election and said that “a woman is considered to be in their prime in 20s and 30s and maybe 40s.” When Harlow asked Lemon to clarify what he meant, he replied: “If you Google ‘when is a woman in her prime,’ it’ll say 20s, 30s, and 40s.”

Lemon later apologized for the comment in a tweet posted on Thursday night. “The reference I made to a woman’s ‘prime’ this morning was inartful and irrelevant, as colleagues and loved ones have pointed out, and I regret it,” he wrote. “A woman’s age doesn’t define her either personally or professionally. I have countless women in my life who prove that every day.” Lemon further apologized on an editorial call with staffers the next morning. “I’m sorry that I said it,” Lemon said. “And I certainly see why people found it completely misguided. When I make a mistake, I own it. And I own this one as well.”

Don Lemon’s Apology

On the same call, CNN CEO Chris Licht labeled the comments “disappointing.” He said: “His remarks were upsetting, unacceptable, and unfair to his co-hosts, and ultimately a huge distraction to the great work of this organization.” Additionally, a person familiar with the matter told Confider: “There are ongoing conversations about Don’s future. He is a constant distraction.” Nikki Haley responded to Lemon’s comments on Twitter: “To be clear, I am NOT calling for competency tests for Sexist middle-aged CNN anchors; only for people who make our laws and are 75+.” Haley had called for competency tests for politicians over 75 years old during her candidacy announcement on Wednesday.

Don Lemon joined CNN in September 2006. At the network, he served as the host of Don Lemon Tonight from 2014 to 2022. He’s previously won an Edward R. Murrow Award as well as three regional Emmy Awards. For now, he hosts CNN This Morning alongside Kaitlan Collins and Poppy Harlow.

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Lil Durk Flaunts “Neighborhood Hero” Status After Meeting With Chicago’s Mayoral Candidates

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He may have spent Valentine’s Day engaging in an indirect exchange with his ex, but Lil Durk has also been busy making political moves. The Chicago rapper has earned his fair share of backlash due to his past legal trouble or violent lyrical content, but he’s still one of the most celebrated artists in Hip Hop. Over the last few years, Durk has seemingly attempted to shift the public’s perspective of him. He has invested in more community building, and on Instagram, he shared photos of a dinner with Chicago’s mayor, Lori Lightfoot.

Durk’s Neighborhood Heroes Foundation hosted a dinner at Gibson’s steakhouse, where over two dozen high school students met with mayoral candidates. The youngsters may not be able to vote, but they did ask five candidates about their plans for the city. A few of the students told WGN-TV about their experience.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – JANUARY 13: Rapper Lil Durk performs during Future & Friends “One Big Party Tour”at Spectrum Center on January 13, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina.(Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)
Read More: Lil Durk Seemingly Reacts After India Royale Rejects His Valentine’s Day Tribute

“Tonight is an opportunity for us to express what goes on in our neighborhood and what we want to see change,” said 17-year-old Melvin Bush. “[The election] is an important thing that determines our future and the future of our communities as well.” Another student, Phillip Jones, had questions of his own. “I want to see what they’re going to do to keep our kids out of jail and off the streets,” Jones said. “We got bigger things to do.”

On its website, the Neighborhood Heroes Foundation shared its mission. Its goal is “to empower and collaborate with everyday Heroes who are taking the lead to make positive change in the lives of those within under-resourced neighborhoods across the nation.”

Read More: Lil Durk Vows to Stop Dissing The Dead

“Neighborhood Heroes believe that collaboration is not about an option to choose, but necessity to strengthen the efficiencies and effectiveness of tackling pressing issues and generate a better impact for a better world,” the statement continued. “We understand that collaboration and strategic partnership is fundamental to improving outcomes.” Check out more from Lil Durk’s dinner with the next generation of voters above.

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Donald Trump Wants To Bring Back Firing Squads & Hangings: Report

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Donald Trump has reportedly been expressing interest in bringing back firing squads, hangings, and “possibly even the guillotine,” according to Rolling Stone. The outlet cites a source familiar with the matter. The report comes after the former president called for the death penalty for all drug dealers during his 2024 campaign announcement.

“The [former] president believes this would help put the fear of God into violent criminals,” this source told Rolling Stone. “He wanted to do some of these [things] when he was in office, but for whatever reasons didn’t have the chance.” They added that Trump previously mused about creating a government-backed video-ad campaign to promote the idea of bringing back the execution methods.

Trump’s Campaign Announcement

A spokesperson for the Trump campaign denied that he considered a video-ad campaign. “More ridiculous and fake news from idiots who have no idea what they’re talking about,” the spokesman told the outlet in an email. “Either these people are fabricating lies out of thin air, or Rolling Stone is allowing themselves to be duped by these morons.”

When asked specifically about firing squads and other execution methods, the spokesperson referred to Trump’s aforementioned 2024 campaign announcement. “Every drug dealer during his or her life, on average, will kill 500 people with the drugs they sell, not to mention the destruction of families,” they said. “We’re going to be asking everyone who sells drugs, gets caught selling drugs, to receive the death penalty for their pain.”

In the announcement, Trump had said specifically that he will execute any drug dealer found guilty. “And they send the bullet to the family and they want the family to pay for the cost of the bullet,” Trump said at the rally. “If you want to stop the drug epidemic in this country, you better do that … [even if] it doesn’t sound nice.”

By the end of Donald Trump’s presidency, he had already proven his support for the death penalty. During the final months of his administration, he oversaw the executions of 13 federal prisoners. Since 1963, the government only executed three federal prisoners. It was also the first administration since the 1880s to put people to death during a lame-duck period.

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Biden Administration Denies Aliens Were Behind Multiple UFOs Spotted In North America

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Many North Americans were tuning into this past weekend’s Super Bowl. Elsewhere, others were feeling rising anxiety over the increasing number of UFOs appearing over the continent this month. It all began with the Chinese spy balloon, which was previously shot down under President Joe Biden’s orders. Since then, three more unidentified aerial items have been shot down across Canada and the U.S.

The most recent was first spotted on Saturday (February 11) over Michigan’s Great Lakes. Authorities were quick to remove it, announcing that airspace in the area was shut down on Sunday. The UFO was apparently a potential risk to human air travel, resulting in its removal.

As the news continues to spread, many have been speculating about the potential of alien involvement. In fact, even NORAD Commander and General, Glen Van Herck, has said that he’s “not ruling out the possibility of extraterrestrial activity.” However, on Monday (February 13), the White House made attempts to shut down this narrative in a press conference.

Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre made it clear that the Biden Administration does not believe otherworldly creatures are to blame for the sudden UFO surge. “There is no indication of aliens or extra-terrestrial activity with these recent takedowns. Again, there is no indication of aliens or terrestrial activity with these recent takedowns,” she explicitly stated.

The speaker acknowledged that the White House is aware of the circulating theories. Still, they remain sure that this isn’t an E.T.-related incident. However, as TMZ notes, Jean-Pierre – or National Security who spoke after her – were able to provide clear answers regarding the aerial objects.

During his time on the podium, NSK spokesman John Kirby explained that the U.S. still hasn’t been able to properly assess their latest finds. At this time, the process of collecting material from the discovery location and subsequently studying it is still unfolding. The details he could provide reveal that the latest UFOs “had no discernable communication systems, no propulsion systems and no real maneuvering capabilities.”

The mysterious creations also had no passengers when they went down. The government says they’re not balloon-type crafts, like the Chinese balloon was, though they can’t find an accurate way to describe them just yet. As lawmakers continue to demand answers, Biden has authorized an inter-agency team. This brings the State Department, Defense Department, and Office of National Intelligence together for further investigation on the matter.

Do you think the Biden Administration is being honest about the lack of alien involvement in the UFOs? Sound off in the comments, and check back later for any updates.

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Chris Brown Says Aliens Already Live Among Us

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Chris Brown says that not only have aliens been visiting us for a “long time,” but they already live among us. The Breezy singer reacted to the United States shooting down four unidentified devices on his Instagram Story, earlier this week. The downing of the ariel devices, one of which was the Chinese spy balloon, has prompted numerous viral UFO theories. In his post, Brown explained that he believes contact with aliens is nothing new.

“I know this is hella random but don’t fall for the fake ufo/UAP FALSE FLAGS,” Brown wrote. “EXTRATERRESTRIALS HAVE BEEN VISITING US FOR A LONG TIME. Some live amongst us. We ARE THE ONLY DESTRUCTIVE SPECIES DOOMING OUR EXISTENCE DONT LET THEM RUN WITH THIS NARRATIVE.. just say I’m crazy BUT ALSO MAKE YOUR OWN JUDGMENTS. THEY JUST STARTING ACKNOWLEDGING THE “POSSIBILITIES ” OF UFOs and UAPs NOW THEY SHOOTING EVERYTHING MOVING OUT THE SKY????? (HEY, this message is for uneducational purposes)”

Chris Brown’s Post

Jim Ludes, who leads the Pell Center for International Relations at Salve Regina University and is a former national defense analyst, tells the AP: “There will be an investigation and we will learn more, but until then this story has created a playground for people interested in speculating or stirring the pot for their own reasons.”

One of the only claims that the White House has refuted is that the UFOs are the result of aliens. Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters: “I know there have been questions and concerns about this, but there is no — again no indication — of aliens or extraterrestrial activity with these recent takedowns. I wanted to make sure that the American people knew that, all of you knew that and it was important for us to say that from here because we’ve been hearing a lot about it.”

Following the Chinese spy balloon, the three next devices that were shot down were not identified. Despite not disclosing their origins or purpose, Pentagon officials say they posed no security threats. Other conspiracy theories suggest that President Joe Biden deployed the devices to distract Americans from other issues plaguing the country. Other similar theories suggest the UFOs are a diversion of attention by White House and Pentagon from the recent chemical spill in Ohio.

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Fourth Aerial Object Shot Down Over North America, Lawmakers Demand Answers

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Much of this past weekend was spent preparing for the Super Bowl. Outside of the world of sports and entertainment, though, several aerial objects have been shot down across North America over the past few days. As The Hill reports, Sunday (February 12) found the U.S. military removing the third unidentified item from the sky in just three days.

At this time, details surrounding the incidents are sparse. Still, several lawmakers are using their platforms to hold the government accountable in offering up an explanation. “There’s been space junk, weather balloons, spy balloons, and military advancements for years,” Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote on Twitter yesterday afternoon. “All of [the] sudden world superpowers are shooting unidentified objects down. This looks like a testing of military prowess.”

Later on, the far right-conspiracy theorist added, “Lack of evidence and briefings are extremely noticeable.” Her message came shortly after the fourth object in recent weeks was shot down over Lake Huron. Officials confirmed that the mission was successful during a briefing. They noted that the item was first spotted on Saturday. It came down because it was posing a threat to civilian aviation.

The first incident, involving a Chinese spy balloon, saw President Joe Biden order the floating device’s removal from the Carolina coast last Saturday. Following that, a “high-altitude object” was hovering over Alaska on Friday (February 10). The military promptly shot it down. The next day, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau gave NORAD direction to shoot down a similar object found over the Yukon territory.

At this time, the general public is searching for more answers. Specifically, they want to know the origin of the aerial objects and their intention. Finally, others are asking why their appearances have become so frequent lately. Rep. Matt Rosendale is among lawmakers pushing for an explanation.

“Members of Congress must have more timely and accurate information so we can keep our constituents informed. DOD — where are you?” he wrote to the Department of Defense. Elsewhere, two Michigan Reps – Debbie Dingell and Lisa McClain – have been equally voicing their concerns online as well. “The increasing incidents of unidentified objects, the latest over Lake Huron in Michigan airspace, are disturbing,” the former says.

She went on to demand, “We need the facts about where they are originating from. What their purpose is, and why their frequency is increasing.” As for the latter, she told followers, “I have been keeping a close eye on the military’s actions over the Great Lakes today. Our state, and the entire country, deserve answers to what happened, and I will ensure we get them.”

U.S. President Joe Biden gives remarks before the start of a meeting with governors visiting from states around the country in the East Room of the White House on February 10, 2023 in Washington, DC (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Additionally, Biden’s Administration is facing criticism for their silence on the objects. Late yesterday evening, the DOD reportedly held a press call. Still, the Pentagon hasn’t given any assessment of the unusual item’s origin. It’s worth noting that General Glen VanHerck, NORAD commander, has made it clear that he’s not ruling out the possibility of extraterrestrial activity.

As of Sunday, he is unaware of any other objects causing concern within the U.S. airspace. What are your thoughts on the situation? Let us know in the comments, and check back later for more news updates.

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Trump Disses Rihanna Ahead Of The Super Bowl

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Donald Trump will probably watch the Super Bowl like many other Americans, though he’ll likely tune out for Rihanna’s halftime show. Since his presidential candidacy, Rihanna stood among his most vocal critics. In 2018, she made it clear that she wasn’t rocking with his administration. When they used “Don’t Stop The Music” for a campaign rally during the mid-terms, she sent a cease and desist to prevent them from using her music in the future. She added that she wouldn’t be seen at one of the “tragic rallies.”

Throughout the years, she continued to throw slight jabs in Trump’s direction. She criticized his stance on immigration, as well. Around the time he ordered the delay of ICE deportations, she shared a photo of herself surrounded by other women, holding a t-shirt that read, “Immigrants.” It’s a topic that she holds close to her heart, especially as an immigrant herself. “Wherever I go, except for Barbados, I’m an immigrant,” she said when she debuted the second Fenty collection. “But I think it’s important for people to remember, if you love me, everyone out here is just like me. A million Rihannas out there, getting treated like dirt.”

Trump Says Rihanna Has No Talent 

Republican Representative Ronny Jackson of Texas called on the NFL to remove Rihanna from the halftime show for “bad-mouthing America,” leading more Republicans to hop on the bandwagon. “Rihanna spray painted “F### Donald Trump” on a car at the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. She’s made a career of spewing degenerate filth while badmouthing America every chance she gets. Why is the NFL showcasing this crap? Rihanna SHOULD NOT be the halftime performer!” he wrote on Truth Social. 

Jackson’s call to remove Rihanna caught the attention of Trump, who evidently isn’t happy at the singer’s previous criticism towards him. Though he appeared to compliment Rihanna’s fashion sense, he believes that she’s otherwise talentless. “Without her ‘Stylist’ she’d be NOTHING,” he wrote. “Bad everything, and NO TALENT!” Millions of others undoubtedly disagree with this sentiment. After all, she reportedly sold 250 million records worldwide. We’ll certainly be tuning in to see Rihanna hit the stage. Will you? Let us know in the comment section. 

Suspected Chinese Spy Balloon Could be Part of a Wider Snooping Effort

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Following the overtaking of a Chinese spy balloon by the United States Military,  shot down last week, China has requested the remains of the balloon be returned. The balloon was captured over the coast of South Carolina and pieces of it were fished out of the Atlantic Ocean. 

It is believed that the high-altitude balloon that was spotted flying over the continental US may have been used to surveil sensitive military sites, according to defense officials. Chinese officials deny these claims and credit the balloon’s location to windy weather. 

When a reporter asked on Tuesday whether China has called on the US to give back the debris of the downed balloon, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, “The airship does not belong to the US. It belongs to China.” 

“If you pick up something on the street, you should return it to the owner, if you know who the owner is. If the Americans don’t want to return it, that’s their decision. This demonstrates their dishonesty.” China’s ambassador to France, Lu Shaye, said during an interview on Monday with French news channel LCI, according to Bloomberg News.

Newly released images from the US Navy show divers pulling debris from the massive balloon out of the Atlantic Ocean. 

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Spokesperson said the shooting of the balloon was an overreaction and “The unmanned Chinese airship is of civilian nature. Its unintended entry into US airspace is entirely unexpected and caused by force majeure. It didn’t pose any threat to any person or to the national security of the US. The US should have properly handled such incidents in a calm and professional manner not involving the use of force, yet they decided to do otherwise, which is a clear overreaction.”

Still, the Pentagon’s top spokesperson spoke out on Wednesday to address larger concerns. He believes the balloons were part of a broader surveillance effort by Beijing. He told reporters at the Pentagon that the “surveillance balloon program has been operating for several years.” While there is currently no hard evidence to support these claims, the topic is being heavily debated amongst politicians. 

Biden is taking heat for waiting to shoot down the balloon, although he said he ordered the craft shot down last week, but military brass advised waiting until it was over water to minimize risks to people on the ground.

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