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NEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers formally asked a judge Monday to throw out his hush money criminal conviction , arguing that continuing the case would present unconstitutional “disruptions to the institution of the Presidency.“ In a filing made public Tuesday, Trump’s lawyers told Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan that anything short of immediate dismissal would undermine the transition of power, as well as the “overwhelming national mandate" granted to Trump by voters last month. They also cited President Joe Biden’s recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, who had been convicted of tax and gun charges . “President Biden asserted that his son was ‘selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted,’ and ‘treated differently,’" Trump’s legal team wrote. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, they claimed, had engaged in the type of political theater "that President Biden condemned.” Prosecutors will have until Dec. 9 to respond. They have said they will fight any efforts to dismiss the case but have indicated a willingness to delay the sentencing until after Trump’s second term ends in 2029. In their filing Monday, Trump's attorneys dismissed the idea of holding off sentencing until Trump is out of office as a “ridiculous suggestion.” Following Trump’s election victory last month, Merchan halted proceedings and indefinitely postponed his sentencing, previously scheduled for late November, to allow the defense and prosecution to weigh in on the future of the case. He also delayed a decision on Trump’s prior bid to dismiss the case on immunity grounds. Trump has been fighting for months to reverse his conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels to suppress her claim that they had sex a decade earlier. He says they did not and denies any wrongdoing. The defense filing was signed by Trump lawyers Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, who represented Trump during the trial and have since been selected by the president-elect to fill senior roles at the Justice Department. Taking a swipe at Bragg and New York City, as Trump often did throughout the trial, the filing argues that dismissal would also benefit the public by giving him and “the numerous prosecutors assigned to this case a renewed opportunity to put an end to deteriorating conditions in the City and to protect its residents from violent crime.” Clearing Trump, the lawyers added, would also allow him to “to devote all of his energy to protecting the Nation.” Merchan hasn’t yet set a timetable for a decision. He could decide to uphold the verdict and proceed to sentencing, delay the case until Trump leaves office, wait until a federal appeals court rules on Trump’s parallel effort to get the case moved out of state court or choose some other option. An outright dismissal of the New York case would further lift a legal cloud that at one point carried the prospect of derailing Trump’s political future. Last week, special counsel Jack Smith told courts that he was withdrawing both federal cases against Trump — one charging him with hoarding classified documents at his Florida estate, the other with scheming to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost — citing longstanding Justice Department policy that shields a president from indictment while in office. The hush money case was the only one of Trump’s four criminal indictments to go to trial, resulting in a historic verdict that made him the first former president to be convicted of a crime. Prosecutors had cast the payout as part of a Trump-driven effort to keep voters from hearing salacious stories about him. Trump’s then-lawyer Michael Cohen paid Daniels. Trump later reimbursed him, and Trump’s company logged the reimbursements as legal expenses — concealing what they really were, prosecutors alleged. Trump has said the payments to Cohen were properly categorized as legal expenses for legal work. A month after the verdict, the Supreme Court ruled that ex-presidents can’t be prosecuted for official acts — things they did in the course of running the country — and that prosecutors can’t cite those actions to bolster a case centered on purely personal, unofficial conduct. Trump’s lawyers cited the ruling to argue that the hush money jury got some improper evidence, such as Trump’s presidential financial disclosure form, testimony from some White House aides and social media posts made during his first term. Prosecutors disagreed and said the evidence in question was only “a sliver” of their case. If the verdict stands and the case proceeds to sentencing, Trump’s punishments would range from a fine to probation to up to four years in prison — but it’s unlikely he’d spend any time behind bars for a first-time conviction involving charges in the lowest tier of felonies. Because it is a state case, Trump would not be able to pardon himself once he returns to office.
First picture of dad killed in Boxing Day hit-and-runHOUSTON -- An elaborate parody appears to be behind an effort to resurrect Enron, the Houston-based energy company that exemplified the worst in American corporate fraud and greed after it went bankrupt in 2001. If its return is comedic, some former employees who lost everything in Enron’s collapse aren’t laughing. “It’s a pretty sick joke and it disparages the people that did work there. And why would you want to even bring it back up again?” said former Enron employee Diana Peters, who represented workers in the company’s bankruptcy proceedings. Here’s what to know about the history of Enron and the purported effort to bring it back. Once the nation’s seventh-largest company, Enron filed for bankruptcy protection on Dec. 2, 2001, after years of accounting tricks could no longer hide billions of dollars in debt or make failing ventures appear profitable. The energy company's collapse put more than 5,000 people out of work, wiped out more than $2 billion in employee pensions and rendered $60 billion in Enron stock worthless. Its aftershocks were felt throughout the energy sector. Twenty-four Enron executives , including former CEO Jeffrey Skilling , were eventually convicted for their roles in the fraud. Enron founder Ken Lay’s convictions were vacated after he died of heart disease following his 2006 trial. On Monday — the 23rd anniversary of the bankruptcy filing — a company representing itself as Enron announced in a news release that it was relaunching as a “company dedicated to solving the global energy crisis.” It also posted a video on social media, advertised on at least one Houston billboard and a took out a full-page ad in the Houston Chronicle In the minute-long video that was full of generic corporate jargon, the company talks about “growth” and “rebirth.” It ends with the words, “We’re back. Can we talk?” Enron's new website features a company store, where various items featuring the brand's tilted “E” logo are for sale, including a $118 hoodie. In an email, company spokesperson Will Chabot said the new Enron was not doing any interviews yet, but that "We’ll have more to share soon.” Signs point to the comeback being a joke. In the “terms of use and conditions of sale” on the company's website, it says “the information on the website about Enron is First Amendment protected parody, represents performance art, and is for entertainment purposes only.” Documents filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office show that College Company, an Arkansas-based LLC, owns the Enron trademark. The co-founder of College Company is Connor Gaydos, who helped create a joke conspiracy theory that claims all birds are actually surveillance drones for the government. Peters said that since learning about the “relaunch” of Enron, she has spoken with several other former employees and they are also upset by it. She said the apparent stunt was “in poor taste.” “If it’s a joke, it’s rude, extremely rude. And I hope that they realize it and apologize to all of the Enron employees,” Peters said. Peters, who is 74 years old, said she is still working in information technology because “I lost everything in Enron, and so my Social Security doesn’t always take care of things I need done.” “Enron’s downfall taught us critical lessons about corporate ethics, accountability, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Enron’s legacy was the employees in the trenches. Leave Enron buried,” she said. __ This story was corrected to fix the spelling of Ken Lay’s first name, which had been misspelled “Key.” ___ Follow Juan A. Lozano on X at https://x.com/juanlozano70
New York state government to monitor its use of AI under a new lawNoneThe critically acclaimed Stan Original Series Black Snow is back for a gripping second season, and leading the charge is none other than rising star Jana McKinnon. Stream Season 1 of Black Snow only on Stan. Known for her standout performances in the Stan Original Series Bad Behaviour and a slew of European film roles, McKinnon takes on the challenging lead role of Zoe Jacobs in Black Snow opposite Vikings alum Travis Fimmel. In Season 2, the Black Snow story shifts focus to Zoe Jacobs, who mysteriously went missing in 2003. Detective Cormack (Fimmel) returns to investigate Zoe's case, unearthing secrets within the tight-knit Sunshine Coast community. McKinnon spoke about how special it was to bring Zoe's full story to life. "In Black Snow Season 2, we follow Cormack as he investigates a new case: the disappearance of Zoe Jacobs in 2003," McKinnon explained. "The series moves between timelines, where we get to know Zoe, her friends, her community, and her world. Her story unfolds through her work at the community radio station, her relationships with her parents, and the challenges within her life." READ MORE: 'Should've kept me': Nikita Iman on her Drag Race Down Under exit and what really happened at the Comedy Roast While crime dramas often relegate missing characters to a single flashback, Black Snow digs deeper into Zoe's world. McKinnon described this as a rare and rewarding opportunity as an actor. "It's such a great opportunity to not just be the victim but to flesh out this character's whole life. I got to explore Zoe's world – the music of 2003, the cars, the technology. It's strange to think of it as a 'period' show, but technically, it is." "It's like this uncanny reflection of a time not too long ago." Reflecting on the early 2000s, McKinnon admitted she was too young to fully remember the era but appreciated its nostalgic vibe. "I probably remember the songs from the radio, even if I couldn't name them! But getting to revisit the culture, the music, and the tech from that time was so fun." The role wasn't without its challenges, though. Known for her emotionally intense roles, McKinnon shared how portraying Zoe required her to tackle raw and visceral themes of grief. "I often get cast in darker roles, but this one was particularly challenging because of how grief is portrayed. Zoe's way of processing her emotions is so specific and different from my own. It was a real challenge to dig into that." READ MORE: Why the 'From' Season 3 finale is a masterpiece with the 'best twist in TV history' - as finally, we get some answers McKinnon also had high praise for the Black Snow team, including Travis Fimmel, who stepped into the director's chair for the first time in Season 2. "I was one of the few cast members who only worked with Travis as a director. He brought so many ideas to the table and really helped shape the show alongside showrunner Lucas Taylor. I'm excited to see the episode [Fimmel] directed!" The production process itself was a highlight for McKinnon, who described the experience as both professional and heartwarming. "The cast and crew were amazing – so skilled and so enthusiastic. Many of the crew returned from Season 1, so it felt like being welcomed into a big family. It was a really beautiful and special experience, and I've made friendships that I know will last a lifetime." With her career spanning both Europe and Australia, McKinnon opened up about what sets Aussie productions apart – and yes, coffee was mentioned. "The biggest difference is that Aussies have much better coffee on set! But truly, the professionalism of Australian crews is unmatched. The teams are bigger, the work flows seamlessly, and it's so well-equipped to handle major Hollywood productions. I absolutely love working in Australia and hope to do more." Looking to the future, McKinnon revealed a surprising desire to explore lighter genres. "I'd love to do comedy! I tried it for the first time this year in a kids' movie in Germany, and I had so much fun. But I'm open to anything. I love deep, dark roles too. Right now, I'm just excited for what life throws at me next." READ MORE: Jana McKinnon on why so many will relate to the dark Stan Original series Bad Behaviour As Black Snow gears up for its highly anticipated release, McKinnon hopes the show will resonate on multiple levels. "I think audiences will really enjoy the mystery, but also the layers of the story – the friendships, the music, the community. The show touches on important themes, like housing insecurity, particularly for older women. It's political, but it never feels forced. It's such a rich, complex story." For McKinnon, the music and culture of 2003 are just as much a character as Zoe herself. "The soundtrack and the vibe of that year really make the show so immersive. There's this scene where Zoe mentions Kings of Leon as a 'niche indie band,' which is hilarious now. I loved digging into the music of that time – it makes everything feel so authentic." Black Snow Season 2 premieres New Year's Day, only on Stan. Don't miss the season two premiere of Black Snow, streaming from New Year's Day, only on Stan. Stream Season 1 of Black Snow only on Stan. Nine Entertainment Co (the publisher of this website) owns and operates the streaming service Stan . FOLLOW US ON WHATSAPP HERE : Stay across all the latest news from your favourite shows via our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm and nobody can see your private details.
Aidan O'Connell shows in loss to Chiefs that he is the Raiders' QB for the rest of season
Forte scores 21, South Dakota beats Western Illinois 89-66None
US stocks rally despite Trump tariff threat but European stocks fallContinental Tires is increasing the proportion of recycled materials in its tyres. More tyre plants have now been converted to use polyester fabric made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles. This increases the recycled content of many tyre lines by an average of 3%, says the manufacturer. Depending on the tyre size, up to 15 PET bottles are used per tyre. Continental presented its own ContiRe.Tex technology for the first time at the end of 2021. The tech is based on PET bottles that would otherwise not be recycled. The bottles are spun into a polyester yarn without any intermediate chemical steps, and can... Irma Venter
THE stars of I'm A Celebrity went wild as they received a surprise boozy trip out of camp. In a long running tradition, the ITV show's famous faces visit pub "The Jungle Arms". After dinner, Maura Higgins delivered the news that they had a chance to visit the Jungle Arms. Excited, the group were left wondering what they would have to do to gain entry. Former Love Island star Maura said: "I'm telling you now, I will go to lengths to get my glass of wine , you watch." Echoing a similar sentiment, social media star GK Barry declared: "Let's get a glass of prosecco! I've never walked so fast in my life." Afterwards, the nine campmates arrived at the Kangaroo Court challenge area. They found a seating area, a DJ booth and three dance booths. To win their place in the Jungle Arms, they had to take part in a game of Jungle Musical Statues. Hosted by Kiosk Kev, the campmates split up into groups of three. Kev played tracks from "Jungle on the Dance Floor" as the celebrities entered the dance booths. In a twist on musical statues, they needed to strike the correct dance pose and hold for ten seconds. Both Maura and GK were respectively put off by critters - putting their treat in jeopardy. While things generally didn't to go plan at first after failed attempts. But by the end, all nine campmates successfully won a place in The Jungle Arms. The thrilled group received a buffet of pizza and chips, accompanied with a drink of their choice. Music was also provided, thanks to a guitar, keyboard and a microphone for singing. In a fun twist, GK Barry sung McFly's Obviously - in front of campmate Danny Jones. The line-up also had a group singalong of The Communards' Don't Leave Me This Way. Of course, campmate Reverend Richard Coles was a member of the 1980s band. Maura took on Celine Dion's power ballad It's All Coming Back To Me Now. MAURA Higgins is a late entry to I'm A Celeb 2024. Yet who is joining her? 2019 Love Island star Maura, 33, will be a late entry to the jungle line-up. She will head into the I'm A Celeb camp , along with the Reverend Richard Coles , 62. The duo will join the likes of Coleen Rooney , Barry McGuigan and Danny Jones in Ant and Dec’s jungle camp a week into this year’s star-spangled series. Yet initially the duo will have their own private base - and a secret mission - before heading into the main compound Down Under. Maura has already described the jungle as "hell." Meanwhile Richard, who has starred on Strictly, has confessed his biggest "fear." Laughing, the reality star quipped: "Celine is going to be obsessed with me!" Danny tackled Livin On A Prayer, while Dancing On Ice judge Oti Mabuse sang I Have Nothing. Melvin Odoom treated his co-stars to a rendition of classic tune Hey Ya, with the group dancing along. I'm A Celebrity continues on ITV1 and ITVX.BERLIN (AP) — Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk caused uproar after backing Germany’s far-right party in a major newspaper ahead of key parliamentary elections in the Western European country, leading to the resignation of the paper’s opinion editor in protest. Germany is to vote in an early election on Feb. 23 after Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party governing coalition collapsed last month in a dispute over how to revitalize the country’s stagnant economy. Musk's guest opinion piece for Welt am Sonntag — a sister publication of POLITICO owned by the Axel Springer Group — published in German over the weekend, was the second time this month he supported the Alternative for Germany, or AfD. “The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is the last spark of hope for this country," Musk wrote in his translated commentary. He went on to say the far-right party “can lead the country into a future where economic prosperity, cultural integrity and technological innovation are not just wishes, but reality.” The Tesla Motors CEO also wrote that his investment in Germany gave him the right to comment on the country's condition. The AfD is polling strongly, but its candidate for the top job, Alice Weidel , has no realistic chance of becoming chancellor because other parties refuse to work with the far-right party. An ally of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, the technology billionaire challenged in his opinion piece the party's public image. “The portrayal of the AfD as right-wing extremist is clearly false, considering that Alice Weidel, the party’s leader, has a same-sex partner from Sri Lanka! Does that sound like Hitler to you? Please!” Musk’s commentary has led to a debate in German media over the boundaries of free speech, with the paper's own opinion editor announcing her resignation, pointedly on Musk's social media platform, X. “I always enjoyed leading the opinion section of WELT and WAMS. Today an article by Elon Musk appeared in Welt am Sonntag. I handed in my resignation yesterday after it went to print," Eva Marie Kogel wrote. The newspaper was also attacked by politicians and other media for offering Musk, an outsider, a platform to express his views, in favor of the AfD. Candidate for chancellor, Friedrich Merz, of the Christian Democratic Union, said Sunday that Musk's comments were “intrusive and presumptuous”. He was speaking to the newspapers of the German Funke Media Group. Co-leader of the Social Democratic Party, Saskia Esken said that “Anyone who tries to influence our election from outside, who supports an anti-democratic, misanthropic party like the AfD, whether the influence is organized by the state from Russia or by the concentrated financial and media power of Elon Musk and his billionaire friends on the Springer board, must expect our tough resistance,” according to the ARD national public TV network. Musk's opinion piece in the Welt am Sonntag was accompanied by a critical article by the future editor-in-chief of the Welt group, Jan Philipp Burgard. “Musk’s diagnosis is correct, but his therapeutic approach, that only the AfD can save Germany, is fatally wrong,” Burgard wrote. Responding to a request for comment from the German Press Agency, dpa, the current editor-in-chief of the Welt group, Ulf Poschardt, and Burgard — who is due to take over on Jan. 1 — said in a joint statement that the discussion over Musk's piece was "very insightful. Democracy and journalism thrive on freedom of expression.” “This will continue to determine the compass of the “world” in the future. We will develop “Die Welt” even more decisively as a forum for such debates,” they wrote to dpa.