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BRITS will watch five hours of telly a day over Christmas and 'lie' to loved ones to avoid socialising for a boxset. As Christmas officially kicks off, many will embrace the slow, relaxed pace of the Twixmas period between December 26th and 31st, indulging in some guilty pleasures while avoiding the social demands of the festive season. 3 Brits will watch five hours of telly a day over Christmas and 'lie' to loved ones to avoid socialising for a boxset Credit: Getty A recent survey from Sky and Now has revealed that, during this in-between lull, Brits will engage in some surprising habits, with a focus on binge-watching TV, staying in their pyjamas, and even skipping showers. According to the poll, a quarter will avoid showering for three days or more during Twixmas, while half admit to wearing the same pair of pants for longer than a day. Even more surprising, 21 percent of respondents will go up to five days without leaving the house, making the period a time for ultimate relaxation and avoidance of any unnecessary errands or social obligations. In fact, it seems that getting dressed is not a priority for many, as over half of respondents - at 55 percent - will spend at least one day lounging around in their pyjamas, with some spending the entire period in their most comfortable attire. read more on Christmas ONE HIT WONDERLAND Christmas song rich list revealed - including star who makes £1m a YEAR PROUD BRO Princess Kate's brother James praises his sister as she leads carol concert The trend of taking it easy continues with the discovery that 64% of Brits said their favourite activity during Twixmas is staying at home and watching TV. With family and friends often still lingering from Christmas, some will take the opportunity to lie about being busy to avoid socialising beyond December 25th. Around 22 percent of people admitted to fibbing to loved ones so they can stay home, binge-watch boxsets, and simply unwind without any obligations. It’s no surprise, then, that Brits are setting aside considerable time for television, with the average person watching five hours a day. Most read in Streaming LAST CHRISTMAS Gavin and Stacey cast break down in tears ahead of final episode ROYAL ENGAGEMENT? The Crown star Vanessa Kirby 'is engaged' to hunky sports star boyfriend HOT FOR BOT Racy Megan Fox movie packed with robot sex scenes tops Netflix streaming charts BACK ON Disney+'s most raunchy show Rivals confirmed for series two Over the six days of Twixmas, this adds up to an impressive 30 hours of TV viewing, and across the UK, it amounts to a staggering 1.8 billion hours of collective screen time. During this period, many will start and finish a new TV series in just a few days, with 52 percent of respondents committing to new shows. Hannah Murray's Deeply Personal Journey: From Game of Thrones to Wellness Cult Two-fifths will go so far as to binge-watch TV all day without ever getting up, cementing the idea that this is a time dedicated to indulgent relaxation. Rewatching old favourites is also common, with 51% of Brits revisiting beloved series they've already seen multiple times. With Gavin and Stacey's final ever episode set to air, it's perfect timing for fans to re-watch the entire series from the beggining. The Twixmas period also serves as a time for many to catch up on all the Christmas specials and festive-themed TV shows they missed during the chaos of the holiday. More than half of those surveyed - at 52 percent - will spend their time revisiting these programmes, and over a fifth - 22 percent - will make it a point to rewatch their favourite Christmas classics. This trend reflects a broader shift towards embracing comfort and relaxation in the days following Christmas. Read more on the Scottish Sun SHOCK SWOOP Former Celtic boss 'lines up shock January transfer swoop for Kyogo Furuhashi' MAKE THE YULETIDE GREY White Christmas update for Scots as snow & 80mph winds wreak chaos Jamie Morris, Executive Director of Content Strategy and Performance at Sky, said that this period of rest is the ideal time to relax, snack on leftovers, and enjoy some great television. Whether it's watching nostalgic favourites, diving into thrilling new series, or simply revisiting Christmas classics, Sky and NOW have ensured that Brits have access to everything they need for the perfect Twixmas. 3 Popular choices include the Harry Potter movie franchise Credit: Alamy 3 Sky's exclusive series like Game of Thrones too Credit: Alamy
NEW YORK , Dec. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report with market evolution powered by AI - The global ticket market size is estimated to grow by USD 228.52 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 18.67% during the forecast period. Success of movies due to increasing use of animation is driving market growth, with a trend towards high utilization of social media in selling tickets. However, growing threat of terrorism and occurrence of war between nations poses a challenge. Key market players include AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc., Big Tree Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., Cinemark Holdings Inc., Citizen Ticket Ltd., Coast To Coast Tickets LLC, Comcast Corp., CTS Eventim AG and Co. KGaA, Cvent Holding Corp., eBay Inc., Eventbee Inc., Eventbrite Inc., Ideabud LLC, ITKTS Interactive Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Live Nation Entertainment Inc., Lyte Inc., One97 Communications Ltd., Softjourn Corp., TickPick LLC, Viagogo Entertainment Inc., and Anschutz Entertainment Group Inc.. AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered Source (Primary and Secondary), Type (Sporting events, Movies, Concerts, and Performing arts), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa) Region Covered North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Key companies profiled AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc., Big Tree Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., Cinemark Holdings Inc., Citizen Ticket Ltd., Coast To Coast Tickets LLC, Comcast Corp., CTS Eventim AG and Co. KGaA, Cvent Holding Corp., eBay Inc., Eventbee Inc., Eventbrite Inc., Ideabud LLC, ITKTS Interactive Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Live Nation Entertainment Inc., Lyte Inc., One97 Communications Ltd., Softjourn Corp., TickPick LLC, Viagogo Entertainment Inc., and Anschutz Entertainment Group Inc. Ticket Market: Trends Shaping the Future of Convenient Ticketing Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the ticketing industry, making ticket purchase more efficient and convenient. Credit amounts can now be stored on wearables like smartwatches and NFC cards for contactless electronic ticket purchases. Operational efficiencies are increased with hardware like tap-off readers and RFID tags. Virtual reality maps and satellite delivery offer premium experiences for sports, entertainment, and parking. Buses, trains, and transportation networks are embracing digital transformation through smart cards and smart ticketing. Component manufacturers are producing ticket validators, Wi-Fi modules, and GPS for enhanced user experience. Event ticketing software provides deals, discounts, and marketing tools for event organizers, reaching internet users through online ticket purchase platforms. Digital wallets and mobile payment platforms ensure cashless transactions, increasing customer satisfaction and patronage. The public sector benefits from digital ticketing, reducing marketing costs and offering ticketless entry through wristbands. Movies, music concerts, and special presentations can be accessed with mobile tickets, enhancing the customer experience. Safety and accessibility are prioritized through contactless transactions and hygiene measures. Fintech companies like Mastercard are partnering with service providers to offer secure digital ticket purchases and mobile payment services. The entertainment industry continues to evolve with digital projection, 3-d content, and alternative entertainment offerings. Stay tuned for more trends shaping the future of ticketing! Social media plays a significant role in providing real-time feedback for businesses, particularly in the event and movie industries. Organizations use social computing tools for branding, marketing, and knowledge management initiatives. By registering on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, vendors can reach new audiences and gather public opinions. Sentiment analysis and behavioral analytics are increasingly important, driving cost-effective collaborations with the audience. Social media integration in business processes enhances market reach and engagement. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! • In the world of Ticket Market, artificial intelligence is a significant challenge as it requires advanced programming and algorithms for event ticketing, sports, parking, and transportation. Credit amount management is crucial for cashless transactions and customer satisfaction. Wearables and NFC cards offer convenient ticketing, while operational efficiencies can be gained through hardware like tap-off readers and ticket validators. Virtual reality maps and GPS enhance the customer experience. Component manufacturers must keep up with the latest technology like RFID tags and Wi-Fi modules. Public sector projects demand smart cards and smart ticketing for transportation networks. Event organizers seek digital transformation through contactless electronic tickets, mobile ticketing, and online ticket purchase platforms. Safety and hygiene are paramount, with secure digital ticket purchases and fintech companies like Mastercard leading the way. The entertainment industry continues to evolve with digital projection, 3-d content, and premium experiences. Pre-sales, barcode scanning, and discounts are essential for attracting and retaining a customer base. Marketing costs remain a challenge, but event discovery platforms and deals offer opportunities for growth. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a seamless user experience, from ticket purchase to entry, using digital devices and mobile payment platforms. • The global rise in terrorist activities poses significant challenges for event organizers, particularly those hosting large gatherings in special venues or crowded places. This trend has led to increased security concerns among attendees, resulting in a decline in participation. The heightened threat level has resulted in stricter border clearance procedures, causing delays and more thorough inspections. Countries such as the United States , the United Kingdom , France , and Germany have been particularly affected, with many potential attendees choosing to avoid events out of fear. Organizers are investing in advanced technologies to enhance security, but the fear of potential terrorist attacks remains a major obstacle. Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report This ticket market report extensively covers market segmentation by Source 1.1 Primary 1.2 Secondary Type 2.1 Sporting events 2.2 Movies 2.3 Concerts 2.4 Performing arts Geography 3.1 North America 3.2 Europe 3.3 APAC 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Primary- The primary segment of the global ticket market is the largest and most dynamic, driven by the increasing number of movies and events. Primary tickets can be sold through both online and offline platforms. Movies, with their increasing production and special effects, are a significant contributor to this segment's growth. The end-users have diverse expectations, leading to intense competition among vendors. The growing popularity of sports events, such as the Indian Premier League, and the increasing use of mobile devices and the internet are also fueling this segment's growth. Additionally, the corporate segment, including private organizations, businesses, and educational institutions, is expected to shift towards digital content services, creating a potential opportunity for online ticket sales during the forecast period. The digitization of event processes, customer-centric approaches, and the rise in the number of conferences and seminars are further growth drivers for this market. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) Ticket Market is a dynamic and innovative platform revolutionizing the way we purchase and manage tickets for various modes of transportation and entertainment events. Our focus is on delivering a seamless journey management experience, optimizing passenger experience through contactless and NFC ticketing, RFID technology, and real-time transit information. We strive for operational efficiency with integrated ticketing systems, ticket transfer, and ticket recovery. Our commitment to public transport innovation includes transit automation, user-friendly ticketing, multimodal transportation, and smart city initiatives. We cater to sports ticketing, parking ticketing, and event ticketing solutions, providing secure and durable ticketing options. Our advanced fare collection systems and smart mobility solutions enable sustainable transportation and transit data analytics. Join US in exploring the future of transportation and event management. Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the ticketing industry, offering convenient and contactless ticketing solutions through electronic means. Wearables, such as smartwatches and NFC cards, are increasingly popular for tap-on and tap-off transactions at bus stops and parking lots. Operational efficiencies are enhanced through the use of RFID tags, IR sensors, and Wi-Fi modules in hardware like ticket validators and card readers. Virtual reality maps and 3-D content provide event experiences, while mobile ticketing and digital wallets offer cashless transactions and customer satisfaction. Event ticketing software enables pre-sales, discounts, and deals for internet users, attracting a larger customer base. The entertainment industry benefits from digital transformation, with premium experiences and alternative entertainment options available through mobile ticketing platforms. Safety and accessibility are ensured through secure digital transactions and contactless ticketing experiences. The public sector and transportation networks are embracing smart ticketing, with smart cards and Smar transport systems streamlining transportation and reducing marketing costs. The future of ticketing is digital, with fintech companies like Mastercard leading the way in digital payment services and contactless transactions. 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Source Primary Secondary Type Sporting Events Movies Concerts Performing Arts Geography North America Europe APAC South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ticket-market-to-grow-by-usd-228-52-billion-2024-2028-driven-by-animated-movies-success-report-on-ais-role-in-redefining-market-trends---technavio-302320518.html SOURCE Technavio © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
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NEW YORK — President-elect Donald Trump's lawyers urged a judge again Friday to throw out his hush money conviction, balking at the prosecution's suggestion of preserving the verdict by treating the case the way some courts do when a defendant dies. They called the idea "absurd." The Manhattan district attorney's office is asking Judge Juan M. Merchan to "pretend as if one of the assassination attempts against President Trump had been successful," Trump's lawyers wrote in a 23-page response. In court papers made public Tuesday, District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office proposed an array of options for keeping the historic conviction on the books after Trump's lawyers filed paperwork this month asking for the case to be dismissed. They include freezing the case until Trump leaves office in 2029, agreeing that any future sentence won't include jail time, or closing the case by noting he was convicted but that he wasn't sentenced and his appeal wasn't resolved because of presidential immunity. Former President Donald Trump appears May 30 at Manhattan criminal court during jury deliberations in his criminal hush money trial in New York. Trump lawyers Todd Blanche and Emil Bove reiterated Friday their position that the only acceptable option is overturning his conviction and dismissing his indictment, writing that anything less will interfere with the transition process and his ability to lead the country. The Manhattan district attorney's office declined comment. It's unclear how soon Merchan will decide. He could grant Trump's request for dismissal, go with one of the prosecution's suggestions, 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. In their response Friday, Blanche and Bove ripped each of the prosecution's suggestions. Halting the case until Trump leaves office would force the incoming president to govern while facing the "ongoing threat" that he'll be sentenced to imprisonment, fines or other punishment as soon as his term ends, Blanche and Bove wrote. Trump, a Republican, takes office Jan. 20. The prosecution's suggestion that Merchan could mitigate those concerns by promising not to sentence Trump to jail time on presidential immunity grounds is also a non-starter, Blanche and Bove wrote. The immunity statute requires dropping the case, not merely limiting sentencing options, they contend. Attorney Todd Blanche listens May 30 as his client Donald Trump speaks at Manhattan criminal court during jury deliberations in his criminal hush money trial in New York. Blanche and Bove, both of whom Trump tapped for high-ranking Justice Department positions, expressed outrage at the prosecution's novel suggestion that Merchan borrow from Alabama and other states and treat the case as if Trump died. Blanche and Bove accused prosecutors of ignoring New York precedent and attempting to "fabricate" a solution "based on an extremely troubling and irresponsible analogy between President Trump" who survived assassination attempts in Pennsylvania in July and Florida in September "and a hypothetical dead defendant." Such an option normally comes into play when a defendant dies after being convicted but before appeals are exhausted. It is unclear whether it is viable under New York law, but prosecutors suggested that Merchan could innovate in what's already a unique case. "This remedy would prevent defendant from being burdened during his presidency by an ongoing criminal proceeding," prosecutors wrote in their filing this week. But at the same time, it wouldn't "precipitously discard" the "meaningful fact that defendant was indicted and found guilty by a jury of his peers." Prosecutors acknowledged that "presidential immunity requires accommodation" during Trump's impending return to the White House but argued that his election to a second term should not upend the jury's verdict, which came when he was out of office. Longstanding Justice Department policy says sitting presidents cannot face criminal prosecution. Other world leaders don't enjoy the same protection. For example, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is on trial on corruption charges even as he leads that nation's wars in Lebanon and Gaza. President-elect Donald Trump attends a Dec. 7 meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace in Paris. Trump has fought for months to reverse his May 30 conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records. Prosecutors said he fudged the documents to conceal a $130,000 payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels to suppress her claim that they had sex a decade earlier, which Trump denies. Trump's hush money conviction was in state court, meaning a presidential pardon — issued by Biden or himself when he takes office — would not apply to the case. Presidential pardons only apply to federal crimes. Since the election, special counsel Jack Smith ended his two federal cases, which pertained to Trump's efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss and allegations that he hoarded classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate. A separate state election interference case in Fulton County, Georgia, is largely on hold. Trump denies wrongdoing in each case. Trump was scheduled for sentencing in the hush money case in late November, but following Trump's Nov. 5 election win, Merchan halted proceedings and indefinitely postponed the former and future president's sentencing so the defense and prosecution could weigh in on the future of the case. Trump is the first former president to be convicted of a crime and the first convicted criminal to be elected to the office. Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. FILE - Former Rep. Doug Collins speaks before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at a campaign event at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Oct. 15, 2024, in Atlanta. Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Kash Patel spent several years as a Justice Department prosecutor before catching the Trump administration’s attention as a staffer on Capitol Hill who helped investigate the Russia probe. Patel called for dramatically reducing the agency’s footprint, a perspective that sets him apart from earlier directors who sought additional resources for the bureau. Though the Justice Department in 2021 halted the practice of secretly seizing reporters’ phone records during leak investigations, Patel said he intends to aggressively hunt down government officials who leak information to reporters. Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Trump said Atkins, the CEO of Patomak Partners and a former SEC commissioner, was a “proven leader for common sense regulations.” In the years since leaving the SEC, Atkins has made the case against too much market regulation. “He believes in the promise of robust, innovative capital markets that are responsive to the needs of Investors, & that provide capital to make our Economy the best in the World. He also recognizes that digital assets & other innovations are crucial to Making America Greater than Ever Before,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. The commission oversees U.S. securities markets and investments and is currently led by Gary Gensler, who has been leading the U.S. government’s crackdown on the crypto industry. Gensler, who was nominated by President Joe Biden, announced last month that he would be stepping down from his post on the day that Trump is inaugurated — Jan. 20, 2025. Atkins began his career as a lawyer and has a long history working in the financial markets sector, both in government and private practice. In the 1990s, he worked on the staffs of two former SEC chairmen, Richard C. Breeden and Arthur Levitt. Jared Isaacman, 41, is a tech billionaire who bought a series of spaceflights from Elon Musk’s SpaceX and conducted the first private spacewalk . He is the founder and CEO of a card-processing company and has collaborated closely with Musk ever since buying his first chartered SpaceX flight. He took contest winners on that 2021 trip and followed it in September with a mission where he briefly popped out the hatch to test SpaceX’s new spacewalking suits. Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. President-elect Donald Trump tapped former Sen. David Perdue of Georgia to be ambassador to China, saying in a social media post that the former CEO “brings valuable expertise to help build our relationship with China.” Perdue lost his Senate seat to Democrat Jon Ossoff four years ago and ran unsuccessfully in a primary against Republican Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. Perdue pushed Trump's debunked lies about electoral fraud during his failed bid for governor. A Republican congressman from Michigan who served from 1993 to 2011, Hoekstra was ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump's first term. “In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump said in a statement announcing his choice. “He did an outstanding job as United States Ambassador to the Netherlands during our first four years, and I am confident that he will continue to represent our Country well in this new role.” Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Guilfoyle is a former California prosecutor and television news personality who led the fundraising for Trump's 2020 campaign and became engaged to Don Jr. in 2020. Trump called her “a close friend and ally” and praised her “sharp intellect make her supremely qualified.” Guilfoyle was on stage with the family on election night. “I am so proud of Kimberly. She loves America and she always has wanted to serve the country as an Ambassador. She will be an amazing leader for America First,” Don Jr. posted. The ambassador positions must be approved by the U.S. Senate. Guilfoyle said in a social media post that she was “honored to accept President Trump’s nomination to serve as the next Ambassador to Greece and I look forward to earning the support of the U.S. Senate.” Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Customs and Border Protection, with its roughly 60,000 employees, falls under the Department of Homeland Security. It includes the Border Patrol, which Rodney Scott led during Trump's first term, and is essentially responsible for protecting the country's borders while facilitating trade and travel. Scott comes to the job firmly from the Border Patrol side of the house. He became an agent in 1992 and spent much of his career in San Diego. When he was appointed head of the border agency in January 2020, he enthusiastically embraced Trump's policies. After being forced out under the Biden administration, Scott has been a vocal supporter of Trump's hard-line immigration agenda. He appeared frequently on Fox News and testified in Congress. He's also a senior fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Former Rep. Billy Long represented Missouri in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023. Since leaving Congress, Trump said, Long “has worked as a Business and Tax advisor, helping Small Businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations.” Former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler was appointed in January 2020 by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and then lost a runoff election a year later. She started a conservative voter registration organization and dived into GOP fundraising, becoming one of the top individual donors and bundlers to Trump’s 2024 comeback campaign. Even before nominating her for agriculture secretary, the president-elect already had tapped Loeffler as co-chair of his inaugural committee. Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Trump says he’s picking Kari Lake as director of Voice of America, installing a staunch loyalist who ran unsuccessfully for Arizona governor and a Senate seat to head the congressionally funded broadcaster that provides independent news reporting around the world. Lake endeared herself to Trump through her dogmatic commitment to the falsehood that both she and Trump were the victims of election fraud. She has never acknowledged losing the gubernatorial race and called herself the “lawful governor” in her 2023 book, “Unafraid: Just Getting Started.” Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. James Blair, deputy chief of staff Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. Jay Bhattacharya, National Institutes of Health Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Marty Makary, Food and Drug Administration Makary is a Johns Hopkins surgeon and author who argued against pandemic lockdowns. He routinely appeared on Fox News during the COVID-19 pandemic and wrote opinion articles questioning masks for children. He cast doubt on vaccine mandates but supported vaccines generally. Makary also cast doubt on whether booster shots worked, which was against federal recommendations on the vaccine. Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, Surgeon General Nesheiwat is a general practitioner who serves as medical director for CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey. She has been a contributor to Fox News. Dr. Dave Weldon, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Weldon is a former Florida congressman who recently ran for a Florida state legislative seat and lost; Trump backed Weldon’s opponent. In Congress, Weldon weighed in on one of the nation’s most heated debates of the 1990s over quality of life and a right-to-die and whether Terri Schiavo, who was in a persistent vegetative state after cardiac arrest, should have been allowed to have her feeding tube removed. He sided with the parents who did not want it removed. Jamieson Greer, U.S. trade representative Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Ron Johnson, Ambassador to Mexico Johnson — not the Republican senator — served as ambassador to El Salvador during Trump's first administration. His nomination comes as the president-elect has been threatening tariffs on Mexican imports and the mass deportation of migrants who have arrived to the U.S.-Mexico border. Johnson is also a former U.S. Army veteran and was in the Central Intelligence Agency. Tom Barrack, Ambassador to Turkey Barrack, a wealthy financier, met Trump in the 1980s while helping negotiate Trump’s purchase of the renowned Plaza Hotel. He was charged with using his personal access to the former president to secretly promote the interests of the United Arab Emirates, but was acquitted of all counts at a federal trial in 2022. Trump called him a “well-respected and experienced voice of reason.” Andrew Ferguson, Federal Trade Commission Ferguson, who is already one of the FTC's five commissioners, will replace Lina Khan, who became a lightning rod for Wall Street and Silicon Valley by blocking billions of dollars worth of corporate acquisitions and suing Amazon and Meta while alleging anticompetitive behavior. “Andrew has a proven record of standing up to Big Tech censorship, and protecting Freedom of Speech in our Great Country,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding, “Andrew will be the most America First, and pro-innovation FTC Chair in our Country’s History.” Jacob Helberg, undersecretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment Dan Bishop, deputy director for budget at the Office of Budget and Management Leandro Rizzuto, Ambassador to the Washington-based Organization of American States Dan Newlin, Ambassador to Colombia Peter Lamelas, Ambassador to Argentina Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.
Derek Robertson throws for school-record 536 yards and Monmouth surprises Stony Brook 55-47Boris Johnson could be back as Tory leader before the next election because no one else can “out-Farage Farage”, one of his loyalist allies has claimed. Former Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries argues the Conservatives would have won the summer’s election if the former PM had not been ousted from office. She said: “He would have knocked Starmer into orbit. There is no better communicator than Boris Johnson .” Ms Dorries suggests that if new Tory leader Kemi Badenoch does not put the party on the path back to power then powerful Conservatives could tell Mr Johnson: “I’m very sorry, we need you back.” She fears that the absence of Mr Johnson from frontline politics has allowed Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to take centre stage – with dangerous consequences for the Tories . She told the Sunday Express: “There are red lights flashing on the road ahead which tell us that week by week Nigel Farage is growing on the political stage. I would say the only reason that is happening is because Boris Johnson has exited that political stage. “That is facilitating his growth, both in popularity and as the alternative.” In her new book, Downfall, she writes that if the “chaos continues” then “Boris is the only person who can out-Farage Farage,” adding: “There may come a point in time, in a year or two from now, when Conservative MPs realise that only one man can save them as they face a looming general election that, thanks to a surging and seemingly unstoppable Reform party, is forecast to be even worse than the last.” According to Ms Dorries, the key question is whether Mr Johnson – who has forged a lucrative career as a public speaker and columnist – wants to return to the political fray. “Of course I want to see him there,” she said. “I make no apology for that. The problem is, does he want it?” She warns that today’s MPs would have to go to him on bended knee, saying: “There’s no way they’ll get him back if they don’t.” The Tories will be in grave danger of electoral annihilation, she argues, if Reform UK moderates its positions so it can appeal to a broader audience. “If Boris isn’t there and Nigel Farage starts to talk in more moderate language about policy then he will wipe the Conservative party out,” she said. Ms Dorries argues the ex-PM's “genius” was building a broad case of support by championing not just Brexit but levelling-up and environmental concerns. “That was Boris Johnson ’s genius,” she said. “He knew he needed everybody.” In her book, written before the Tory leadership results were announced, she predicted that if Mrs Badenoch won she would “face a vote of no confidence and will be removed by MPs and will never get close to a general election”. She insists she wants Mrs Badenoch to succeed as Tory leader because she wants “Labour out”. But she cautions: “The people who put her there – what is important to them is power. And if they think she isn’t going to deliver them power they will remove her and replace her with someone who will. “I wouldn’t put it past them to even go back to Boris Johnson at some stage and say, ‘I’m very sorry, we need you back’.” She says the key reason Rishi Sunak went for the snap election is that he “absolutely hated being prime minister”. “He believed that the minute he removed Boris Johnson and he was put in place that the polls would rise,” she said. “He would be seen as some kind of new messiah, coming over the water to save the Conservative party and it was just the opposite and he couldn’t bear it.” A return by Boris Johnson to the green benches would be one of the biggest comebacks in modern times. But a former minister said: “He’s one of the great comeback kings of politics. Why not?” Mr Johnson quit as PM in July 2022 following the mass resignation of ministers. His premiership was rocked by the uproar over “partygate” and claims Mr Johnson had been told allegations about Chris Pincher before he appointed him deputy chief whip. He then resigned as an MP in June 2023, claiming the cross-party committee that investigated whether he misled Parliament over lockdown-era parties was “determined to use the proceedings against me to drive me out of Parliament”. His fans believe he still has much to offer the party. An ex-minister who wants the Tories to harness his campaigning talents said: “ Boris Johnson is an important figure in political life who has a unique ability to cut through to the public. I’d welcome his involvement in a campaigning role for the Conservatives .” And a prominent grassroots activist suggested he could helm the party again: “If Boris were to return as an MP within the next year then I think he’s a natural to fight the next election, actually. I think that is a credible scenario.” However, a former minister and ally of the ex-PM said: “Sadly, I believe the vast majority of Tory MPs we have at the moment do not, and would not, support Boris as leader again. If Boris were to work with Reform I think he would wipe Labour out. “Sadly, I can’t see that happening either at the moment.”What Happened South Korea Capital Cable 102
MELVILLE, N.Y. and DAVIDSON, N.C. , Dec. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MSC Industrial Supply Co. (NYSE: MSM) , a premier distributor of Metalworking and Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) products and services to industrial customers throughout North America , today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a cash dividend of $0.85 per share. The $0.85 dividend is payable on January 29, 2025 to shareholders of record at the close of business on January 15, 2025 . Contact Information Investors: Media: Ryan Mills, CFA Zivanai Mutize Head of Investor Relations Head of Corporate Communications Rmills@mscdirect.com Zivanai.mutize@mscdirect.com About MSC Industrial Supply Co. MSC Industrial Supply Co. (NYSE:MSM) is a leading North American distributor of a broad range of metalworking and maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) products and services. We help our customers drive greater productivity, profitability and growth with approximately 2.4 million products, inventory management and other supply chain solutions, and deep expertise from more than 80 years of working with customers across industries. Our experienced team of more than 7,000 associates works with our customers to help drive results for their businesses - from keeping operations running efficiently today to continuously rethinking, retooling and optimizing for a more productive tomorrow. For more information on MSC Industrial, please visit mscdirect.com . Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements" under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of present or historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that MSC expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including statements about results of operations and financial condition, expected future results, expected benefits from our investment and strategic plans and other initiatives, and expected future growth, profitability and return on invested capital, are forward-looking statements. The words "will," "may," "believes," "anticipates," "thinks," "expects," "estimates," "plans," "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by these forward-looking statements. In addition, statements which refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, statements involving a discussion of strategy, plans or intentions, statements about management's assumptions, projections or predictions of future events or market outlook and any other statement other than a statement of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. The inclusion of any statement in this press release does not constitute an admission by MSC or any other person that the events or circumstances described in such statement are material. In addition, new risks may emerge from time to time and it is not possible for management to predict such risks or to assess the impact of such risks on our business or financial results. Accordingly, future results may differ materially from historical results or from those discussed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, the reader should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following: general economic conditions in the markets in which we operate; changing customer and product mixes; volatility in commodity, energy and labor prices, and the impact of prolonged periods of low, high or rapid inflation; competition, including the adoption by competitors of aggressive pricing strategies or sales methods; industry consolidation and other changes in the industrial distribution sector; the applicability of laws and regulations relating to our status as a supplier to the U.S. government and public sector; the credit risk of our customers; our ability to accurately forecast customer demands; customer cancellations or rescheduling of orders; interruptions in our ability to make deliveries to customers; supply chain disruptions; our ability to attract and retain sales and customer service personnel; the risk of loss of key suppliers or contractors or key brands; changes to trade policies or trade relationships; risks associated with opening or expanding our customer fulfillment centers; our ability to estimate the cost of healthcare claims incurred under our self-insurance plan; interruption of operations at our headquarters or customer fulfillment centers; products liability due to the nature of the products that we sell; impairments of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets; the impact of climate change; operating and financial restrictions imposed by the terms of our material debt instruments; our ability to access additional liquidity; our ability to realize the desired benefits from the reclassification of our Class B Common Stock to Class A Common Stock; the significant influence that our principal shareholders will continue to have over our decisions; our ability to execute on our E-commerce strategies and maintain our digital platforms; costs associated with maintaining our information technology ("IT") systems and complying with data privacy laws; our ability to remediate a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting and to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and our disclosure controls and procedures in the future; disruptions or breaches of our IT systems or violations of data privacy laws, including such disruptions or breaches in connection with our E-commerce channels; risks related to online payment methods and other online transactions; the retention of key management personnel; litigation risk due to the nature of our business; failure to comply with environmental, health, and safety laws and regulations; and our ability to comply with, and the costs associated with, social and environmental responsibility policies. Additional information concerning these and other risks is described under "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our Annual and Quarterly Reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, respectively, and in the other reports and documents that we file with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/msc-industrial-supply-co-declares-regular-quarterly-dividend-302335377.html SOURCE MSC Industrial Supply Co.
CHRISTMAS is almost here, and finding Christmas gifts that are perfect for every member of the family can feel like a daunting task -especially when you're keeping an eye on costs. But gift-giving doesn’t have to mean emptying your bank. Whether you're shopping for fun-filled activities, thoughtful trinkets, or practical offers to spark smiles, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that cater to everyone on your gift list. In this article, we'll be discovering a mix of creative and cost-effective ways to make the festive season special. After all, the best presents are about the thought, not price tags. Ready to tick off your Christmas shopping list while keeping your budget intact? Ensure your Christmas shop is hassle-free this year and find our options below. Toybox Shop holiday deals at Toybox If you're looking for the ultimate family gadget to add to your home for the festive season, meet Toybox . Toybox is an original 3D printer designed for families, it's designed to deliver endless fun and creativity in the comfort of your own home. With its easy setup and user-friendly app, Toybox takes care of the technical side, all you have to do is press print and watch the magic happen. It’s the only 3D printer in the UK that lets you create licensed toys from your kids’ favourite shows, including the likes of Spongebob, Batman and Scooby-Doo, alongside thousands of other characters. You'll also be able to dive into the Creator Space, where you can design, customise and print your own toys with ease. With 15 million creations printed worldwide, Toybox isn’t just a 3D printer, but a ticket to completely transform playtime. 1pMobile 1pMobile It's important to stay connected over the holidays, and if you're looking for incredible value on family mobile plans, 1pMobile has you covered. With various options available to suit your needs, 1pMobile has plenty of plans and tariffs for every family. Check out the Unlimited Family Bundle, for example, which lets you enjoy unlimited UK calls, texts, and data with the first SIM for just £25, and additional SIMs for only £12.50 each. If you prefer a smaller plan, you can choose from a range of bundles starting at 2GB or whatever suits you best. With a range of SIM-only deals, you can keep the phone you love while upgrading to a better, more flexible plan. All bundle deals include EU roaming (up to 14GB), 5G speeds, Wi-Fi calling, and VoLTE, ensuring seamless connectivity wherever you are. There is also the freedom of a 30-day plan, letting you adjust your bundle as your usage or situation changes. With amazing value and flexibility, staying connected has never been easier. Nextbase Nextbase The Nextbase Piqo 2K is the perfect solution for giving you and your family full peace of mind when using the road. The Nextbase Piqo 2K, which retails now for £99, is the smallest model from the world’s leading Dash Cam brand and boasts a sleek, compact design. With high-definition features including enhanced 2K recording for crystal-clear footage, a smart parking feature to record incidents while parked, and emergency SOS - you can be sure you have all of the comforts to keep you safe. Paired with an easy-to-use app, Piqo ensures driver and vehicle security every time you set off. Haleon Haleon Ease the stuffiness of a blocked nose caused by a cold during the Christmas period, with Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray. Nasal congestion can happen when the inside of your nose becomes irritated. This irritation sets off a reaction of inflammation, swelling and mucus production, making it hard to take in air through your nose. The latest innovation from Otrivine features a push-button applicator for easy and accurate dosing, while delivering fast relief, right to where it matters, in as little as two minutes and lasting for up to 10 hours. The patented nasal mist technology* offers a fine mist** with a 2X shorter nozzle, making the product more comfortable to use compared to the previous device. Enjoy fewer disruptions this festive season with Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray. Contains xylometazoline hydrochloride. Always read the label. You can find Otrivine at Boots, Tesco, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, Superdrug, Asda, Morrisons and Ocado. * EP2654967B1 **New nozzle produces fine mist Lounge Lounge If you're wanting to stay cosy over the festive season, Lounge is a top option for all of your cosy comforts. While lingerie remains at the heart of the brand's identity, there are a plethora of designs that are perfect for gifting to loved ones or to add to your own comfortable clothing collection. Discover much-loved pieces like the iconic Black Balcony set or explore the bestsellers and new arrivals to find the perfect fit for you. This Christmas, customers can indulge in cosy essentials like knitwear, pyjamas, socks and dressing gowns. Esupply Get £5 off your first order using code: SANTA-S24 Esupply’s motto is “unreal tech, real people,” so if you're on the hunt for top-tech this Christmas, this is where you'll find it. In a world of bots and automated systems, Esupply stands out for its exceptional customer service, with 5-star rated support from real humans. Partnering with trusted brands like HP and more means that you can rest assured you're getting products that are reliable and up to performing all of your daily tasks. This includes options like the affordable HP 200 series laptop, which is ideal for browsing, gaming, or work. From laptops and desktops to mobile phones, home audio and more, Esupply is your one-stop shop for IT hardware and electronics. 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Trusted by professional jewellers, find it online at Beaverbrooks, H.Samuels, The Diamond Store, Goldsmiths and more. Howe Tools Use code: XMAS100 to claim your FREE Stanley Pocket Driver This Christmas, Howe Tools is offering shoppers a FREE Stanley Pocket Driver when you spend £100 or more on Power Tools, DIY products, or garden tools. Whether you’re shopping for a professional tradesperson, a passionate DIYer, or a green-thumbed gardener, Howe Tools has everything you'll need to get started. With over 2,500 power tools in stock from top brands like Dewalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Bosch, Stanley and more, you’ll find the perfect tool for any project. Order by 8pm for free next working day delivery, complete with one-hour time slots and text updates. Plus, enjoy a 30-day no-quibble return policy for peace of mind on your purchases. Montserrat Montserrat Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Montserrat offers an authentic island experience. 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Plus discover amazing new services and products when you visit the website today.Former Kentucky WR Dane Key set for transfer to Nebraska
USWNT beats Netherlands 2-1 in goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher's final matchFormer prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra called for unity among coalition parties to ensure the government gets to complete its full term in office. He was speaking on Tuesday during a trip to Chiang Mai to help Pichai Lertpongadisorn, a Pheu Thai candidate vying for the provincial administrative organisation (PAO) chairmanship there. The PAO election will take place on Feb 1 next year. Asked to comment on the state of politics next year, Thaksin said: "There will be nothing much. Politics will remain the same. Coalition parties will remain unchanged. Differences of opinion are normal, but we must stick together until the end of the term in office, regardless." Thaksin is widely seen as the de facto leader of Pheu Thai, which is led by his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Thaksin also gave assurances the Pheu Thai-led government will be able to stay on until it completes its term in May 2027. Quizzed about a cabinet reshuffle, Thaksin said it is up to the prime minister to decide. He also downplayed the prospect of trouble on the streets. Former yellow-shirt protest leader Sondhi Limthongkul has threatened to hold street protests unless the government scraps the 2001 memorandum of understanding (MoU) on maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand. In 2005, Mr Sondhi used his ASTV satellite television channel to launch a public crusade against Thaksin. He became a leader of the yellow-shirt People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) movement, which mobilised tens of thousands of protesters against Thaksin's government in mid-2006. On Sept 19, 2006, then-army chief Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin staged a coup and seized power from Thaksin. Addressing supporters at a local market in Chiang Mai's San Pa Tong district, Thaksin took a shot at his critics, whom he referred to as the so-called "regulars". "Some media outlets present overblown stories. They often interview those regulars to give them a chance to criticise me so they can get stories. Sometimes, I hit back at them. As I grow older, I feel calmer. But if they are still harsh to me, I will respond in kind. Don't mess with me. They are such a nuisance," Thaksin said. Campaigning in the province, Thaksin promised the government would roll out measures to tackle problems such as household debts, drug trafficking, and call centre scams. He said the government also plans to regulate underground businesses and address the PM2.5 haze pollution, particularly in Chiang Mai. He also touted the government's housing programme, which will provide affordable housing with 99-year leases and instalments starting at 4,000 baht per month, offering many citizens a chance at home ownership. "Next year, everyone will be happy. I assure you that all problems will be solved. But I need moral support. I hope that Chiang Mai residents will give me moral support by voting for Kong [the nickname of the PAO candidate]. "The PAO victory will be a signal that Pheu Thai MPs will reclaim House seats in 10 constituencies in Chiang Mai in the next election," Thaksin said. "Anyone who voted for the Move Forward Party (reborn as the People's Party) is urged to vote for Pheu Thai at the next election to return the seats to Thaksin. The country will then progress quickly, in the same way as when I was prime minister," Thaksin said.
The 2024 Imperial Springs International Forum is held in Madrid, Spain on December 12, 2024. Photo: Wang Wenwen/GT Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a congratulatory letter to the 2024 Imperial Springs International Forum held in Madrid, Spain. Xi pointed out that since its establishment 10 years ago, the forum has adhered to advocating multilateralism, conducted in-depth discussions on global governance issues, actively shared China's propositions, and played a positive role in enhancing exchanges and understanding between China and countries worldwide, Xinhua News Agency reported. Xi emphasized that in a world marked by intertwined changes and turmoil, peace and development remain the shared aspirations of all peoples. China stands ready to work with other countries in the spirit of "promoting global solidarity," upholding fairness and justice to safeguard global peace and stability, adhering to win-win cooperation to promote sustainable global development, and committing to inclusiveness and mutual learning to advance human civilization to new heights, Xi said. The 2024 Imperial Springs International Forum was held in Madrid, Spain on Wednesday and Thursday under the theme "Collective Action for One Future." In his opening remarks, Yang Wanming, president of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, said that facing the future, all parties should take practical actions to strengthen unity and cooperation, work together to respond to global challenges, defend and practice true multilateralism, stand on the right side of history, promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind in the spirit of "promoting global solidarity," and contribute to promoting world peace, stability and prosperity. Xue Lan, dean of the Schwarzman College, Tsinghua University who was present at the forum, noted that Xi's letter shows that the Chinese government has utmost sincerity in cooperating with the international community to cope with challenges. "China has accumulated enough experience to fully understand the problems faced by today's world. The key is consensus and the will to solve the problems. It is easier for countries to make a statement on international occasions, but actions matter the most - that's why the theme of this year's forum is significant," Xue told the Global Times on the sidelines of the forum. More than 200 participants from the political, academic, and business circles in over 50 countries from Asia, Europe, Africa, America and Oceania, including over 50 former heads of state, heads of government, and leaders of international organizations, and over 90 internationally renowned experts, scholars, and business leaders attended the forum. Inaugurated in 2014, the Imperial Springs International Forum is now jointly organized by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the Australia China Friendship and Exchange Association, the People's Government of Guangdong Province, and World Leadership Alliance-Club de Madrid. This year's forum mainly focused on the following topics: global strategic stability, financing for development, enhancing global cooperation, traditional and non-traditional challenges to global security, tackling challenges facing the world economy, United Nations Summit of the Future, the Future of Global Governance, AI and green technology, sustainable development, and people-to-people exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. The Imperial Springs International Forum has been held for eight consecutive sessions, and has become a new type of high-end platform for China to conduct in-depth communication with the rest of the world. This year was the first time that the forum has been held abroad. Josipovic, the former president of Croatia, said that this change is significant as it shows the will to cooperate is even more intensive. Csaba Korosi, a Hungarian diplomat who served as president of the 77th United Nations General Assembly, was also a participant of the forum. He believes that the zero-sum game mentality prevailing in the world is starting to overshadow the necessity of global cooperation on global common goods, and the Imperial Springs International Forum with this year's theme of "Collective Action for One Future" provides an inspiring platform to discuss how countries can tackle it. "The result is a lose-lose game. So it cannot be an alternative for us. It cannot be an acceptable outcome for us. Our responsibility is the collective action, where we can still have a kind of race, but where we have to find the ways of cooperation," Korosi told the Global Times. Maria Fernanda Espinosa, former minister of foreign affairs of Ecuador, told the Global Times that cooperation fits into today's world. "When you think about the security challenges that the world faces, the conflicts that we are experiencing, the environmental crisis, the crisis of poverty and inequalities, all of these challenges require more cooperation in a multilateral system, and that's what it's all about at the end." She expressed appreciation for China's efforts to gather global voices. "China has shown that the voices of the world are important, bringing a community of current and former leaders to discuss the challenges of our times to come up with innovative ideas and solutions. It's really valued," she noted.The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information has advised that after consultation with key stakeholders, a decision was taken to adjust the dates for the administration of the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) Six exam. This is due to the recent disruptions caused by the inclement weather conditions that Jamaica has been experiencing, and to provide additional preparation time to students who have been impacted. The revised dates for administration of the tests are: - Ability Test, Thursday, February 20, 2025 - Performance Task Tests - Wednesday, March 19, 2025 (Language Arts), and Thursday, March 20, 2025 (Mathematics) - Curriculum-Based Tests - Wednesday, April 30, 2025 (Language Arts and Science), and Thursday, May 1, 2025 (Mathematics and Social Studies) The Ministry, in a bulletin, said it recognises the challenges faced by students, educators and parents during these trying times, and has, therefore, taken proactive measures to facilitate the best possible outcomes for the learners. School administrators are being urged to encourage teachers and parents to maximise the additional time given to ensure adequate preparation of the students for this assessment. The Ministry has given its commitment to provide the support necessary to ensure the best performance by all students. For further information or queries, persons may email sau@moey.gov.jm or call 876- 948-9254. Follow The Gleaner on X and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com .
USWNT beats Netherlands 2-1 in goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher's final match
Children of the wealthy and connected get special admissions consideration at some elite U.S. universities, according to new filings in a class-action lawsuit originally brought against 17 schools. Georgetown’s then-president, for example, listed a prospective student on his “president’s list” after meeting her and her wealthy father at an Idaho conference known as “summer camp for billionaires,” according to Tuesday court filings in the price-fixing lawsuit filed in Chicago federal court in 2022. Although it’s always been assumed that such favoritism exists, the filings offer a rare peek at the often secret deliberations of university heads and admissions officials. They show how schools admit otherwise unqualified wealthy children because their parents have connections and could possibly donate large sums down the line, raising questions about fairness. Stuart Schmill, the dean of admissions at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, wrote in a 2018 email that the university admitted four out of six applicants recommended by then-board chairman Robert Millard, including two who “we would really not have otherwise admitted.” The two others were not admitted because they were “not in the ball park, or the push from him was not as strong.” In the email, Schmill said Millard was careful to play down his influence on admissions decisions, but he said the chair also sent notes on all six students and later met with Schmill to share insight “into who he thought was more of a priority.” The filings are the latest salvo in a lawsuit that claims that 17 of the nation’s most prestigious colleges colluded to reduce the competition for prospective students and drive down the amount of financial aid they would offer, all while giving special preference to the children of wealthy donors. “That illegal collusion resulted in the defendants providing far less aid to students than would have been provided in a free market,” said Robert Gilbert, an attorney for the plaintiffs. Since the lawsuit was filed, 10 of the schools have reached settlements to pay out a total of $284 million, including payments of up to $2,000 to current or former students whose financial aid might have been shortchanged over a period of more than two decades. They are Brown, the University of Chicago, Columbia, Dartmouth, Duke, Emory, Northwestern, Rice, Vanderbilt and Yale. Johns Hopkins is working on a settlement and the six schools still fighting the lawsuit are the California Institute of Technology, Cornell, Georgetown, MIT, Notre Dame and the University of Pennsylvania. MIT called the lawsuit and the claims about admissions favoritism baseless. “MIT has no history of wealth favoritism in its admissions; quite the opposite,” university spokesperson Kimberly Allen said. “After years of discovery in which millions of documents were produced that provide an overwhelming record of independence in our admissions process, plaintiffs could cite just a single instance in which the recommendation of a board member helped sway the decisions for two undergraduate applicants." In a statement, Penn also said the case is meritless that the evidence shows that it doesn't favor students whose families have donated or pledged money to the Ivy League school. “Plaintiffs’ whole case is an attempt to embarrass the University about its purported admission practices on issues totally unrelated to this case," the school said. Notre Dame officials also called the case baseless. “We are confident that every student admitted to Notre Dame is fully qualified and ready to succeed,” a university spokesperson said in a statement. The South Bend, Indiana, school, though, did apparently admit wealthy students with subpar academic backgrounds. According to the new court filings, Don Bishop, who was then associate vice president for enrollment at Notre Dame, bluntly wrote about the “special interest” admits in a 2012 email, saying that year's crop had poorer academic records than the previous year's. The 2012 group included 38 applicants who were given a “very low” academic rating, Bishop wrote. He said those students represented “massive allowances to the power of the family connections and funding history,” adding that “we allowed their high gifting or potential gifting to influence our choices more this year than last year.” The final line of his email: “Sure hope the wealthy next year raise a few more smart kids!” Some of the examples pointed to in this week's court filings showed that just being able to pay full tuition would give students an advantage. During a deposition, a former Vanderbilt admissions director said that in some cases, a student would get an edge on the waitlist if they didn’t need financial aid. The 17 schools were part of a decades-old group that got permission from Congress to come up with a shared approach to awarding financial aid. Such an arrangement might otherwise violate antitrust laws, but Congress allowed it as long as the colleges all had need-blind admissions policies, meaning they wouldn't consider a student’s financial situation when deciding who gets in. The lawsuit argues that many colleges claimed to be need-blind but routinely favored the children of alumni and donors. In doing so, the suit says, the colleges violated the Congressional exemption and tainted the entire organization. The group dissolved in recent years when the provision allowing the collaboration expired. The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org .
STEM Toys Market to grow by USD 8.09 Billion (2024-2028), driven by emphasis on STEM education; Report on AI's impact on market trends - Technavio