Kari Lake Demands Election Records in Lawsuit Against Maricopa County

Kari Lake Demands Election Records in Lawsuit Against Maricopa County

Former Arizona gubernatorial candidate challenges election processes and demands transparency over voter issues.

Kari Lake, the Republican candidate who lost Arizona’s gubernatorial race to Democrat Katie Hobbs, has filed a lawsuit seeking election records from Maricopa County. The public records suit demands detailed documentation related to voting irregularities and logistical issues reported during the election.

Lake has consistently refused to concede the race, citing voter complaints about extended waiting times and technical issues at polling stations in Arizona’s most populous county. The lawsuit, filed by her attorney Tim LaSota, alleges that Maricopa County has failed to fulfil public records requests submitted on 15 and 16 November.

The requests aim to identify voters who encountered difficulties, including individuals who checked in at multiple voting locations or returned a mail-in ballot but also attempted to vote in person. Additionally, Lake seeks information about ballots mistakenly mixed together, a problem county officials acknowledged occurred at some polling centres but described as routine and manageable through standard reconciliation processes.

Central to Lake’s claims is a printer malfunction at several voting centres, which resulted in ballots with markings too faint to be read by tabulation machines. Although officials assured that all ballots were ultimately counted, Lake maintains that the technical issues might have prevented some supporters from successfully casting their votes.

Lake has urged the county to provide the requested records before the election certification process. The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, which has a Republican majority, is set to certify the election on Monday, the statutory deadline. Five other counties, including two with Republican-majority boards, are also scheduled to vote on certification the same day. The statewide election results are expected to be officially canvassed on 5 December.

Board of Supervisors Chairman Bill Gates acknowledged the printer issues and stated the county takes responsibility for the errors. However, he criticised certain Republican figures, including state GOP Chair Kelli Ward, for escalating the situation by advising voters against having their ballots counted at the central elections office in Phoenix.

County officials have not yet responded to Lake’s lawsuit or commented on the demands. The case highlights the ongoing disputes over election procedures in Arizona, underscoring a contentious political atmosphere following the 2022 elections.

Review Exposes Toxic Culture in London Fire Brigade: A Turning Point for Reform

Review Exposes Toxic Culture in London Fire Brigade: A Turning Point for Reform

Report unveils institutional racism, misogyny, and urgent need for systemic change.

An independent review of the London Fire Brigade (LFB), led by former Chief Crown Prosecutor Nazir Afzal, has revealed a culture rife with racism, misogyny, and discrimination. London Mayor Sadiq Khan has called the findings “abhorrent” and emphasised the need for this moment to mark a turning point in the brigade’s history.

The report identifies the LFB as “institutionally misogynist and racist,” citing numerous instances of unacceptable behaviour within the organisation. Mayor Khan stated that the brigade must become a workplace where discrimination and unfairness are eradicated, enabling individuals from all backgrounds to thrive.

“I fully support Fire Commissioner Andy Roe in implementing the recommendations with urgency to rebuild trust and confidence among Londoners and the brigade’s staff,” Khan said. He also highlighted the importance of addressing issues such as sexism, racism, bullying, and harassment to restore public faith in the institution.

The commissioner has introduced several measures, including independent investigations into complaints and the use of body-worn cameras to scrutinise firefighter interactions with the public. “Significant changes have been made to policies, procedures, and equipment,” Khan added, “but more must be done to ensure that the LFB is a safe and inclusive workplace.”

Anne Clarke, chairwoman of the London Assembly Fire, Resilience and Emergency Planning Committee, emphasised that the toxic culture risks overshadowing the dedication of thousands of firefighters who serve the city daily. She urged the fire commissioner to act swiftly on the review’s recommendations.

Susan Hall, leader of the GLA Conservatives, expressed her dismay at the findings, stating, “These cases of misogyny, racism, and bullying are shocking and deeply concerning.” She criticised Sadiq Khan’s leadership, accusing him of allowing such behaviours to develop under his tenure.

Shadow Minister for Policing and the Fire Service Sarah Jones also condemned the revelations, extending her sympathy to those affected and calling for the Home Office to ensure similar failures are addressed nationwide. “This review highlights unacceptable conduct that should have no place in the fire service,” Jones said.

The review, which aims to catalyse significant cultural and structural reform, has made a series of recommendations that stakeholders agree must be urgently implemented to rebuild trust in the London Fire Brigade.

Walmart Shooter’s Disturbing Note Reveals Workplace Grievances and Paranoia

Walmart Shooter’s Disturbing Note Reveals Workplace Grievances and Paranoia

Andre Bing expressed feelings of betrayal, harassment, and delusions before deadly rampage.

Authorities have released a troubling “death note” written by Walmart shooter Andre Bing, shedding light on his grievances and distorted mindset before carrying out a deadly attack at the Chesapeake, Virginia, superstore.

The note, discovered on the 31-year-old’s phone, details his claims of harassment by coworkers and a growing paranoia that his phone had been hacked. Bing accused colleagues of mocking him, likening him to serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer. “They laughed at me and said I was like Jeffrey Dahmer,” he wrote.

While he stated, “My intent was never murder,” Bing suggested that the alleged hacking of his phone drove him to act. “I only did it when I realised that my phone was hacked and was giving the worst feeling imaginable,” he claimed.

Bing, who had worked at Walmart for 12 years as an overnight team lead, directed much of his anger toward coworkers and management, accusing them of making “subtle code speeches” and celebrating his “downfall.” He described feeling betrayed, particularly by a friend, and said he overheard discussions about getting rid of him.

The note also touched on Bing’s personal frustrations, including his desire for companionship: “I just wanted a wife but didn’t deserve one.” He expressed regret and acknowledged his failings, writing, “Sorry God I’ve failed you… I remained strong through most of the torment but my dignity was completely taken away.”

Bing’s paranoia extended to fears of government surveillance, and colleagues revealed that he often covered his phone with tape. He wrote about sparing an individual whose name was redacted, citing sympathy for their loss. In a strange aside, he referenced a supposed cancer cure involving apricot seeds.

The shooting occurred in the store’s break room, where witnesses reported Bing entering and opening fire indiscriminately before taking his own life. Police confirmed that he had legally purchased the 9mm handgun used in the attack just hours earlier.

Dominic Raab Denies Bullying Allegations, Defends Use of Personal Mobile for Work

Dominic Raab Denies Bullying Allegations, Defends Use of Personal Mobile for Work

Deputy prime minister asserts professional conduct and adherence to ministerial guidelines amid scrutiny.

Dominic Raab, the UK’s deputy prime minister, has stated that he has “always behaved professionally” as he faces mounting accusations of bullying. Speaking to Sky News on Thursday, Mr Raab expressed confidence in addressing the allegations “fully and transparently.”

The BBC reported that several civil servants who previously worked under Mr Raab are preparing formal complaints about his conduct. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has appointed senior lawyer Adam Tolley KC to investigate two formal complaints made last week regarding Mr Raab’s behaviour. Despite this, No 10 confirmed that the prime minister retains full confidence in Mr Raab.

Responding to claims that he used his personal mobile phone for government work, Mr Raab maintained that it was “entirely legitimate” and consistent with official guidance. Newsnight recently alleged that he used his personal email for government business in two separate departments.

When questioned about additional complaints potentially being filed by senior officials, Mr Raab reiterated: “I have behaved professionally at all times. Since becoming a minister in 2015, this is the first complaint raised against me. I called for an independent inquiry within days and am prepared to address it openly, rather than respond to anonymous speculation in the media.”

Regarding his mobile phone usage, Mr Raab defended his actions, stating: “I have always adhered to the ministerial code, including with my iPhone. I have taken advice and ensured the integrity of my communications is protected.”

When asked if using his personal phone for official purposes breached the ministerial code, he replied: “I took appropriate advice and am confident that my actions align with the guidance provided.”

Dismissing reports that civil servants advised him against using his personal phone for official matters, Mr Raab labelled the claims as “anonymous speculation.” He reiterated his stance, asserting: “It is entirely legitimate and in line with established guidance.”

E. Jean Carroll Initiates Fresh Lawsuit Against Trump Under New York Law

E. Jean Carroll Initiates Fresh Lawsuit Against Trump Under New York Law

Author accuses former U.S. president of a 1990s assault, invoking new legal provisions for survivors.

E. Jean Carroll, a prominent author, has filed a new lawsuit accusing Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s. The case is brought under New York’s recently enacted Adult Survivors Act, which allows victims of sexual abuse to file claims beyond the usual statute of limitations.

Ms Carroll alleges that Mr Trump raped her during an encounter at the Bergdorf Goodman department store on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue. She claims he forced her against a wall, removed her tights, and assaulted her.

This lawsuit coincides with an ongoing defamation case Ms Carroll filed against Mr Trump, accusing him of lying and making disparaging comments about her. The new legal action also addresses recent social media posts where Mr Trump labelled her allegations a “con job.”

Mr Trump has consistently denied these allegations and resisted efforts to advance Ms Carroll’s claims in court. His legal team has fought to delay proceedings, with his attorney Alina Habba describing the latest lawsuit as “inappropriate” and pledging to contest it.

The Adult Survivors Act, effective as of today, provides a one-year window for adult survivors to bring lawsuits against their alleged abusers or institutions that failed to protect them. Ms Carroll’s legal team had announced their intention to file under this law last week.

A judge presiding over the case recently urged Mr Trump’s legal representatives to prepare, noting, “Your client has been aware of this impending lawsuit for months. It is in his best interest to finalise representation.”

The defamation suit against Mr Trump, filed three years ago, remains active. Initially, Mr Trump argued that the statements in question were made while he was president, claiming immunity from legal action. Despite his efforts to delay proceedings, Ms Carroll’s team deposed him in October of this year.

This new legal filing represents a significant development in the long-running legal battle between Ms Carroll and Mr Trump, bringing renewed attention to the allegations and the broader implications of New York’s Adult Survivors Act.

FDA Approves $3.5M Gene Therapy for Hemophilia B, Pioneering New Treatment

FDA Approves $3.5M Gene Therapy for Hemophilia B, Pioneering New Treatment

Groundbreaking one-time therapy offers hope for hemophilia B patients, promising long-term benefits.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the first gene therapy for hemophilia B, a rare genetic blood-clotting disorder that primarily affects men. Named Hemgenix, the groundbreaking treatment comes with a $3.5 million price tag and is expected to significantly reduce healthcare costs over time by minimising the need for frequent clotting treatments.

Developed by CSL Behring, Hemgenix is administered as a one-time intravenous infusion. The therapy introduces a functioning gene into the liver, enabling the production of a critical protein required for blood clotting. Current treatments involve regular and expensive IV infusions of this protein to prevent life-threatening bleeding episodes.

“This approval marks a milestone for patients with hemophilia B,” said Dr Peter Marks from the FDA. “It represents a major step forward in the development of innovative therapies.”

The therapy’s long-term efficacy remains unclear, but CSL Behring anticipates it will offer years of reduced bleeding and improved clotting. The approval was based on two studies, one of which demonstrated a 54% reduction in bleeding incidents and a decreased reliance on standard treatments.

Hemophilia B affects roughly 1 in 40,000 people and accounts for about 15% of hemophilia cases. The disorder is caused by mutations in a gene responsible for producing a key clotting protein. Without treatment, even minor injuries can lead to severe or fatal bleeding, with the condition often causing joint and internal organ damage.

The $3.5 million cost positions Hemgenix among the most expensive gene therapies to date, surpassing others priced at over $2 million. CSL Behring justifies the cost by emphasising long-term savings on treatment and healthcare. Insurers, including private providers and government programs, are expected to cover most of the expense.

Gene therapies are transforming the landscape of medicine, offering treatments that modify or correct genetic mutations for cancers and rare diseases. While Hemgenix is the first gene therapy for hemophilia, similar treatments for the more common hemophilia A are in development. Earlier this year, European regulators approved a comparable therapy for hemophilia A, developed by BioMarin, which is currently under review by the FDA.

The approval of Hemgenix provides new hope for those living with hemophilia B, offering a potentially life-changing solution to a disorder that has long required burdensome and costly management.

Glazer Family Considers Selling Manchester United Amid Fan Protests

Glazer Family Considers Selling Manchester United Amid Fan Protests

Iconic Premier League club explores strategic options, including a potential sale.

The Glazer family, owners of Manchester United, have announced they are considering selling the Premier League club as part of a strategy to explore new investment opportunities. In a statement released on Tuesday, the club confirmed that all options, including a full sale, are being reviewed to maximise growth and enhance its global presence.

To facilitate this process, the American investment bank Raine Group has been appointed to oversee potential transactions. Raine recently managed the £2.5 billion sale of Chelsea FC to Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, a deal that included an additional £1.75 billion commitment for future investments.

Although it remains uncertain if the Glazers will relinquish full control, the announcement brings hope to fans who have long protested against the family’s ownership, citing debt-loaded financing, inadequate investment, and dividend withdrawals. The late Malcolm Glazer acquired the club in 2005 for £790 million, sparking unrest that has intensified over the years.

In 2021, demonstrations against the Glazers led to the postponement of a match against Liverpool at Old Trafford. Supporters have also called for the redevelopment of the stadium, which the club is now considering as part of its growth plans.

Co-chairmen Avram and Joel Glazer highlighted the importance of the club’s global fanbase in their statement: “The strength of Manchester United rests on the passion and loyalty of our 1.1 billion fans worldwide. The board will evaluate all strategic alternatives to best serve our fans, shareholders, and stakeholders while ensuring the club capitalises on growth opportunities.”

The club has struggled to regain its former dominance since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, with Manchester City and Liverpool becoming the dominant forces in English football.

While Manchester United explores its future, billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, owner of petrochemical company INEOS, has stepped back from his interest in purchasing the club. INEOS, which owns French club Nice, stated it is focusing on elevating Nice to compete at the top level in France.

Liverpool FC, another historic Premier League club with American ownership, is also considering selling shares to attract new investment. Fenway Sports Group, which purchased Liverpool in 2010, recently expressed openness to exploring similar options.

Raine Group is expected to use the Chelsea sale as a benchmark for Manchester United’s valuation, which could surpass the record-breaking deal. For fans and stakeholders, the decision marks a potential turning point in the club’s history.

Woman Accuses Herschel Walker of Supporting Her Abortion, Shares Alleged Evidence

Woman Accuses Herschel Walker of Supporting Her Abortion, Shares Alleged Evidence

Press conference reveals audio and diary entries as early voting in Georgia approaches.

A woman identified as Jane Doe has publicly accused Herschel Walker, the Republican Senate candidate in Georgia, of pressuring her to have an abortion and later denying it. The allegations surfaced during a press conference held by her attorney, Gloria Allred, where audio recordings and diary entries were shared.

During the event, Ms Doe played a voicemail from Mr Walker, reportedly recorded during the 1992 Olympics, in which he said, “This is your stud farm calling, you big sex puppy.” Ms Doe claims they were involved in a years-long relationship while Mr Walker was married and that she became pregnant in 1993.

According to Ms Doe, after initially refusing an abortion, Mr Walker convinced her to proceed, driving her to the clinic and waiting in the car. During the press conference, she read diary entries that detailed her emotional turmoil, including fears about Mr Walker’s mental health.

“I told him I could disappear,” she recalled from her diary, “but he said it would be better if he did.” She also cited a letter she claimed Mr Walker wrote to her parents, in which he expressed love for her and regret for the situation.

The press conference comes as Mr Walker campaigns in a runoff election against Democratic Senator Raphael Warnock. Ms Allred challenged Mr Walker to meet with Ms Doe in Georgia before the 6 December election, asserting that voters deserve transparency.

Mr Walker has denied the allegations, including accompanying Ms Doe to an abortion clinic. He has also stated his opposition to abortion in all cases, including rape, incest, or danger to the mother’s life.

Ms Doe is the second woman to accuse Mr Walker of involvement in an abortion. She stated she originally planned to keep her story private but felt compelled to speak out after Mr Walker denied ever asking anyone to get an abortion. “I knew he was lying based on my own experience,” she said tearfully.

Photos of the pair from 2019, previously shared with Good Morning America, were also presented during the press conference. The accusations have drawn significant attention as Georgia voters head to the polls.

Croydon’s Beloved The Chateau Shuts Down After 44 Years, Cancelling Christmas Plans

Croydon’s Beloved The Chateau Shuts Down After 44 Years, Cancelling Christmas Plans

Iconic venue closes doors citing financial pressures and the pandemic, leaving patrons nostalgic.

A prominent Croydon restaurant, renowned for its vintage charm and warmly reviewed on TripAdvisor for its unique “ambiance” and “character,” has ceased operations after 44 years. The Chateau, located on Coombe Lane, announced an immediate closure, attributing the decision to rising costs and the lingering impacts of the pandemic.

Established in 1978, The Chateau was more than just a dining spot—it was a community venue. Over the decades, it hosted a range of events, including civic functions, fundraisers, wedding ceremonies, and receptions. Despite its reputation for excellent meals and as a high-end eatery, offering dishes like beef fillet for £28 and lamb rack for £23, the challenges proved insurmountable.

The closure adds to Croydon’s list of recent losses, including the Selsdon Park Hotel, Croydon Park Hotel, three Wetherspoons pubs, and a Waitrose branch.

The restaurant’s £85 three-course Christmas Day meal has been cancelled, with refunds issued to customers. One patron shared on social media: “They called me tonight and refunded my £400 booking. Such a kind gesture, and it’s heartbreaking to see them go.”

Another customer reminisced: “I celebrated my 50th birthday there. It’s deeply saddening; the place holds many cherished memories.”

In recent months, The Chateau had attempted to draw diners with discounted summer offers but struggled to regain its former popularity. Though maintaining a four-star rating on TripAdvisor, some recent reviews criticised it as “expensive” with “poor” food, lamenting that its golden days seemed far behind.

At the time of closure, no statement had been issued by The Chateau on its website or social media. The Standard has reached out for comment.

Leo Varadkar Defends Government Achievements Ahead of Return as Taoiseach

Leo Varadkar Defends Government Achievements Ahead of Return as Taoiseach

Fine Gael leader outlines lessons learned during 12 years in government, preparing to take over as Irish premier next month

Leo Varadkar, the leader of Fine Gael, has stood by his government’s record as he prepares to assume the role of Taoiseach again next month. Under the terms of a coalition agreement with Fianna Fáil and the Green Party, Varadkar will take over from Micheál Martin, marking the beginning of his second term as Ireland’s prime minister.

Addressing the media in Athlone ahead of his party’s Ard Fheis on Friday evening, Varadkar reflected on his 12 years in government, emphasising that he has learned to expect the unexpected. He pointed to global crises such as the coronavirus pandemic, Brexit, the war in Ukraine, and the financial crash, noting how these events have shaped his leadership approach.

“What you need in any country is a tested party that can respond to crises, build resilience, and ensure that people’s livelihoods are protected no matter the circumstances,” Varadkar remarked. “Our focus must be on providing security for people during difficult times.”

The Fine Gael leader acknowledged the ongoing challenges in housing, healthcare, and justice. However, he also highlighted significant progress made over the past decade, particularly in transforming the Irish economy.

“When we entered government 11-12 years ago, we were facing mass unemployment, with many forced to emigrate in search of work, and our public finances were out of control,” Varadkar stated. “Fast forward to today, and we have full employment, rising incomes, lower taxes, and a growing economy. Ireland now offers opportunities that didn’t exist before.”

He concluded by affirming the government’s accomplishments: “We stand by our record and are confident that we’ve delivered for the Irish people.”