Sen. Bill Cassidy campaign boasts $10M cash on hand as ex-Gov. John Bel Edwards ducks challenge

Rep. Thomas Massie from Kentucky has achieved a significant milestone in his fundraising efforts, raising nearly $768,000 recently and boasting over $2 million in cash for his reelection campaign. This impressive financial backing comes after he stood firm against President Trump's threats to unseat him, proving that his strategy is resonating with supporters. This matters because it highlights Massie's growing influence within the Republican Party and sets a precedent for other candidates who may face similar challenges.

Zohran Mamdani's campaign is under scrutiny not just for the $13,000 in illegal donations from foreigners, but also for the troubling nature of some of the legal contributions he has accepted. This raises serious questions about the integrity of campaign financing and the potential influence of money in politics, making it a significant issue for voters who care about transparency and accountability.

Ontario has announced a new $75 million anti-tariff campaign that will be broadcast on U.S. television networks. This initiative follows a previous $50 million campaign that did not achieve significant results. The new campaign aims to address ongoing trade tensions and promote Ontario's interests in the U.S. market, highlighting the importance of maintaining strong economic ties.

President Trump has given the CIA the green light to carry out covert operations in Venezuela, a move that raises significant concerns about escalating tensions in the region. This decision, which includes the possibility of land strikes, highlights the U.S. administration's aggressive stance towards Venezuela amid ongoing political turmoil. It matters because such actions could lead to further instability and conflict, impacting not only Venezuela but also its neighbors and U.S. foreign relations.

Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani is facing criticism for avoiding a clear stance on the full decriminalization of prostitution. This indecision raises concerns about the potential impact on neighborhoods and crime rates, as many believe that decriminalization could lead to increased issues in communities. The debate is significant as it touches on public safety and the rights of sex workers, making it a crucial topic in the upcoming elections.

Rep. Dave Taylor from Ohio has initiated an investigation following the discovery of vandalism in his office, which included an American flag altered with a swastika. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of hate symbols and vandalism in political spaces, raising concerns about safety and respect in government offices.

The Supreme Court is currently examining the role of race in the redistricting process, which could have significant implications for how voting districts are drawn in the future. This discussion is crucial as it touches on the balance between fair representation and political influence, especially with upcoming cases related to mail-in ballots. The outcome may affect how political parties operate and how elections are conducted, making it a pivotal moment for voters and lawmakers alike.

Long Beach has taken a significant step to combat rising shoplifting incidents by passing the 'Safe Stores are Staffed Stores' ordinance. This new law mandates that large grocery stores and pharmacies must have at least one staff member overseeing every three self-checkout stations. This move highlights the city's commitment to ensuring a safer shopping environment, but it may also lead to longer wait times for customers and could impact the convenience that self-checkouts offer.

This weekend, New York City is opening the doors to over 300 hidden sites as part of the annual Open House New York festival. From secret gardens to abandoned post offices, this event allows the public to explore places that are usually off-limits. It's a unique opportunity to experience the city's rich history and architecture, making it a must-attend for locals and tourists alike.