Jamie Raskin Dismisses GOP’s Impeachment Efforts Over Hunter Biden

Jamie Raskin Dismisses GOP’s Impeachment Efforts Over Hunter Biden

Democratic congressman argues the Republican charges lack merit and contrasts Hunter Biden’s actions with past contempt cases.

Jamie Raskin, the Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee, has criticised Republican plans to charge Hunter Biden with contempt of Congress, asserting that these charges are unfounded. Raskin, a former constitutional law professor, pointed out the stark differences between Biden’s conduct and previous witnesses who faced contempt citations.

In an exclusive interview with The Independent, Raskin argued that Hunter Biden had not refused to cooperate, unlike other individuals who had outright ignored subpoenas, such as Steve Bannon and Ohio Representative Jim Jordan during the January 6 committee hearings. Raskin emphasised that Biden, through his lawyer, had engaged in written communication with the committee and expressed a willingness to cooperate, with the only condition being that he would not testify behind closed doors.

The controversy began after Hunter Biden declined to testify in a closed session before the GOP-led Oversight Committee on 13 December. Instead, Biden made a public statement on Capitol Hill, expressing his desire to testify in an open hearing, where the American public could observe the proceedings.

Raskin defended Biden’s position, explaining that Biden’s refusal to participate in a secretive closed-door session did not amount to a refusal to comply with the subpoena. “He didn’t outright refuse,” Raskin stated. “He was willing to testify but on the condition that it be in an open forum where his statements could be properly understood, unlike the opaque process that had unfolded previously.”

The Democratic congressman also commented on the broader implications of the GOP’s allegations, stating that the accusations against President Biden, particularly regarding alleged influence peddling and bribery, lacked substantive details. According to Raskin, the absence of specific criminal allegations against the president made it difficult for the White House to mount a robust defence.

Despite the constant pressure from House Republicans to link President Biden to his son’s business dealings, Raskin asserted that the role of Democrats on the Oversight Committee was not to defend Hunter Biden but to protect democratic institutions and ensure government accountability. He reiterated that the committee’s work should not be reduced to a “fishing expedition” or a personal attack on individuals.

Raskin’s comments come as the House Republicans, emboldened by Donald Trump’s support, continue their push for impeachment proceedings, which the Maryland congressman has warned will ultimately prove to be an unfounded political tactic.

Bernard Looney’s £32.4 Million Payout Blocked Following BP Misconduct Findings

Bernard Looney’s £32.4 Million Payout Blocked Following BP Misconduct Findings

BP confirms former CEO misled the board about past relationships, resulting in the forfeiture of his compensation.

Bernard Looney, the former CEO of BP, has been stripped of a £32.4 million payout after the company concluded that he had engaged in “serious misconduct.” The oil giant announced that Looney had failed to be fully transparent regarding past relationships with colleagues, which he had not fully disclosed to the company’s board.

BP’s investigation found that assurances Looney had provided in 2022 about his personal relationships were “inaccurate and incomplete.” As a result, the board determined that he had deliberately misled them. In a statement on Wednesday, BP confirmed that, due to this misconduct, Looney’s salary, bonuses, pension benefits, and share options worth £32.4 million would be forfeited.

The forfeited compensation includes nearly £25 million in unvested performance-linked share awards, as well as salary, benefits, and an annual bonus for the 2023 financial year. BP also revealed it would be reclaiming part of the cash already paid to Looney, including 50% of his 2022 cash bonus, citing the breach of trust.

Since Looney’s resignation in September, BP has been operating without a permanent CEO, with Chief Financial Officer Murray Auchincloss stepping in as interim leader while the company searches for a new chief executive.

King Charles Hosts Interfaith Leaders at Buckingham Palace to Promote Unity

King Charles Hosts Interfaith Leaders at Buckingham Palace to Promote Unity

Monarch brings together representatives from diverse faith communities to foster cooperation and understanding.

King Charles III, aged 75, gathered leaders from various faith communities at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday to encourage collaboration and address ongoing societal challenges. In an hour-long meeting, representatives from Sikh, Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Jewish groups discussed ways to strengthen interfaith relationships and engage with younger generations, particularly in educational settings.

This interfaith summit comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict, as protests and marches continue to occur across the UK. Leaders shared their aspirations to build upon the unity formed during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the importance of reaching young people in schools and addressing sensitive topics like the Gaza situation. They also discussed initiatives like mentoring programmes for women and creating safe spaces for dialogue among students.

One participant, from Stand Up! Education Against Discrimination, emphasised the significance of fostering interfaith discussions among young people, particularly within schools. She explained how her group brings Jewish and Muslim representatives into schools to address issues like Islamophobia and antisemitism, but noted the hesitation of educators to engage in these difficult conversations.

Canon Doctor Andrew Smith, who attended on behalf of Birmingham’s interfaith community, spoke highly of the King’s leadership in facilitating meaningful discussions. “His involvement is a strong message that these issues are being taken seriously. His thoughtful questions have been incredibly encouraging for us to keep pushing forward,” he said.

The King’s role as a facilitator was praised by attendees, with one leader noting, “The King’s presence really encourages us to unite and address the challenges that divide us.”

This gathering follows the King’s earlier visit to Lambeth Palace Library, where he marked Inter Faith Week with leaders from various UK communities. Additionally, it has been revealed that interfaith leaders will participate in the Windsor Leadership Programme at Windsor Castle, where they will engage in confidential discussions on societal issues and how to promote positive change in these challenging times.

David Davis Rescues Homeless Man from Assault Near Westminster

David Davis Rescues Homeless Man from Assault Near Westminster

Conservative MP intervenes to stop violent attack and offers assistance to the victim.

David Davis, the 74-year-old Conservative MP, stepped in to prevent two men from assaulting a homeless man near the Houses of Parliament on Tuesday evening. The former Brexit secretary was passing through Great Peter Street in Westminster when he witnessed the attackers kicking the man’s head, causing a “spray of blood” around 11pm.

Davis immediately intervened, positioning himself between the victim and the aggressors. After a brief altercation, one of the attackers swung at him, but the politician managed to push them away without escalating the violence. The man who was targeted, identified as Gareth, was allowed by Davis to rest on his sofa overnight and was taken to the hospital the following morning due to continued bleeding.

The MP for Haltemprice and Howden, a former SAS reservist, explained to PA, “I had to act quickly, positioning myself between them and being aggressive enough to stop the attack. One of the attackers tried to hit me, but I didn’t retaliate physically. If I had, things could’ve gotten much worse.”

Davis continued, “I was trying to create space and force them to back off. After a brief confrontation, the more aggressive attacker seemed to realise he didn’t want a fight with me, and that gave me the chance to help the victim to safety.”

The incident, which Davis described as shocking, ended with the victim receiving much-needed help, with the MP offering assistance beyond just stopping the attack.

Texas Woman Pursues Emergency Abortion in Another State After Supreme Court Intervenes

Texas Woman Pursues Emergency Abortion in Another State After Supreme Court Intervenes

Legal battle continues for Kate Cox as she faces a complicated pregnancy and the state’s abortion restrictions.

A woman from Texas, who has been dealing with a life-threatening pregnancy, is now seeking an emergency abortion outside the state following a series of legal challenges. Kate Cox, from Dallas, was granted a temporary restraining order by a Texas judge last week, which allowed her to pursue the procedure. However, the Texas Supreme Court intervened shortly after, halting the ruling in response to a move by the state’s Attorney General, Ken Paxton.

“The past week has been unbearable for Kate, trapped in legal uncertainty,” said Nancy Northup, president of the Center for Reproductive Rights. “Her life is at risk. She’s been in and out of emergency care and could no longer delay treatment. This situation highlights why politicians and judges should not be deciding healthcare matters—they lack the medical expertise.”

Ms Northup added that while Kate was able to leave Texas for the care she urgently needed, most people do not have such a privilege. For many, the situation could be fatal.

The pregnancy was diagnosed with trisomy 18, a fatal condition, and Ms Cox has faced severe health complications. Her lawyer, Ms Duane, reported that Ms Cox had visited the emergency room four times in the past month due to these complications.

In a tearful moment, Judge Maya Guerra Gamble expressed her shock at the case. “It’s devastating to think that Ms Cox, who deeply desires to become a mother, may be denied that chance because of the law. This could lead to an irreversible injustice.”

Ms Cox, already a mother of two, was hoping for a third child. However, due to her previous cesarean sections, she may not be able to have more children in the future if the abortion is denied, her attorney explained.

In a letter sent to three hospitals where Ms Cox’s doctor is licensed, Mr Paxton warned of legal consequences if they allowed the abortion to take place. “Judge Guerra Gamble is not qualified to make this medical decision. A temporary restraining order cannot substitute for professional medical judgment,” he stated in his correspondence.

Princess of Wales and Children Volunteer at Baby Bank Ahead of Christmas

Princess of Wales and Children Volunteer at Baby Bank Ahead of Christmas

Kate Middleton and her three children help sort and pack donations for families in need.

Ahead of the festive season, the Princess of Wales enlisted her children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, to volunteer at a baby bank in Maidenhead, near their home in Berkshire. The royal family took part in the charity initiative to raise awareness for Kate’s campaign supporting baby banks, which is part of the Royal Foundation’s Centre for Early Childhood.

In a heartwarming video shared by Kensington Palace, Kate and her children were seen sorting through toys and packing gift bags at the donation centre. The nearly two-minute film, directed by Will Warr, captured the royal family’s arrival at the facility, where they were greeted by staff members. The baby bank provides vital items such as second-hand clothing, toys, and nappies to families in need.

The video showed the children actively participating in the process, with five-year-old Louis carrying a box full of donations, while his siblings George and Charlotte helped pack gift bags with toys. At one point, Louis amusingly exclaimed: “This is a big guy!” as he picked up a toy gorilla. The royal children were guided by staff to select gifts they would enjoy themselves, which they then packed for children of similar ages.

Kate also took the opportunity to explain to George how the donations would be distributed. “All these bags are donations, then we have to go sort them and put them in all the boxes,” she told him. The family also shared moments of laughter as Charlotte noticed the print on a baby onesie, which prompted her to laugh and say, “This is Welsh!”

A staff member mentioned that George expressed a desire to return, as Kate embraced her son and reflected on the rewarding nature of helping others. Overlaid text during the video highlighted the pressing issue of child poverty in the UK, noting that a quarter of families with children under five live in poverty.

The Princess and Prince of Wales shared their support for baby banks on social media, encouraging people to visit their local donation centres. In a brief message shared on X (formerly Twitter), the couple highlighted the importance of supporting parents and carers, stating that early childhood experiences have a lasting impact on individuals and society.

This charitable event follows the release of the royal family’s annual Christmas card, which was shared on social media. The family of five posed in casual clothing, with Charlotte and Louis twinning in sneakers. The image captured a special family moment, with the caption reading, “Our family Christmas card for 2023.”

Oprah Winfrey Discusses Her Recent Weight Loss Journey and Reflections on Ozempic

Oprah Winfrey Discusses Her Recent Weight Loss Journey and Reflections on Ozempic

The media mogul reveals her approach to weight loss and the pressures surrounding body image.

Oprah Winfrey, at 69 years old, has recently opened up about her weight loss transformation, revealing the hard work that led to her new physique. The media mogul, who turned heads at the Los Angeles premiere of The Color Purple in a stunning purple gown, shared insights into her fitness journey with Entertainment Tonight.

When asked about how she achieved her figure, Winfrey explained: “It’s not one thing, it’s everything,” stressing the dedication she’s put into achieving her health and fitness goals. She even mentioned that she worked out the same day as the premiere, saying, “I was on that treadmill today,” highlighting her consistent effort.

Winfrey, who serves as an executive producer for the musical film remake of The Color Purple, previously starred in the 1985 adaptation. The new movie, set for release in December, is a retelling of Alice Walker’s novel and features Danielle Brooks in Winfrey’s original role as Sofia.

In the midst of the growing trend of using Ozempic for weight loss, Winfrey has also reflected on her initial thoughts about the medication. The former talk show host admitted she had considered using the popular type 2 diabetes drug, known for its weight loss side effects, but ultimately rejected it, calling it an “easy way out.” She emphasised her desire to achieve results through her own efforts instead.

During a panel discussion for Oprah Daily, titled The Life You Want Class: The State of Weight, Winfrey addressed the surge in celebrity use of Ozempic. She remarked, “Shouldn’t we all just be more accepting of whatever body you choose to be in? That should be your choice.” Reflecting on her own struggles with weight, she shared how the media shamed her for years, and how the current Ozempic craze felt like a shortcut. “If I take the drug, that’s the easy way out,” Winfrey stated, highlighting her determination to do things on her own terms, especially during her knee surgery recovery.

Dr Fatima Cody Stanford, who was part of the panel, responded compassionately, stressing that “obesity is a chronic disease,” and that weight loss is not about willpower, but rather individual biological differences. Winfrey’s candid comments shed light on the pressures of body image, especially in Hollywood, and sparked a broader conversation about how we view weight loss and health.

Manchester Hosts Glamorous Chanel Metiers d’Art Show with Hugh Grant and Tilda Swinton in Attendance

Manchester Hosts Glamorous Chanel Metiers d’Art Show with Hugh Grant and Tilda Swinton in Attendance

Stars from film, music, and fashion gather for the prestigious event on Thomas Street in Manchester.

The streets of Manchester were transformed into a fashion runway on Thursday night for the highly anticipated Chanel Metiers d’Art show, one of the industry’s most elite events. The star-studded guest list included an array of celebrities from film, television, and music, all gathered to witness the exclusive fashion showcase.

Among the high-profile attendees were Hugh Grant and his wife Anna Elisabet Eberstein. Grant, who was in Manchester promoting his new film Wonka, donned a classic black suit and white shirt, while Eberstein paired a chic blue and brown tweed coat with Chanel earrings. The couple, married since 2018, were seated next to actress Tilda Swinton, who turned heads in a stylish black wool coat blazer, an open white shirt, and trousers, accentuated by bold red lip gloss.

Other notable figures at the event included music star Liam Gallagher’s children, Gene and Lennon, who were dressed in Chanel and seated at the front row. They were joined by British rappers Aitch and Bugzy Malone, both sporting distinctive black coats.

Twilight actress Kristen Stewart brought her fashion A-game in a low-cut black and white tweed dress with a flared skirt, accessorised with black boots and silver jewellery. Lucy Boynton, famous for her role in Bohemian Rhapsody, opted for a monochrome collared dress with silver buttons, white tights, and ballet pumps.

Jenna Coleman, the British actress known for Victoria, displayed effortless elegance in a brown tweed coat with black lapels and a tie belt, which she paired with black heels. TV presenter and model Alexa Chung was also in attendance, wearing a stylish black and white wool coat matched with a black Chanel bag.

Thomas Street in Manchester was closed for the occasion, with the area beautifully transformed into a catwalk to host this prestigious fashion event. The Chanel Metiers d’Art show continues to be a highlight in the fashion calendar, attracting a glamorous mix of industry icons and celebrities.

Tottenham’s Inability to Hold Leads Worsens as West Ham Defeat Extends Winless Streak

Tottenham’s Inability to Hold Leads Worsens as West Ham Defeat Extends Winless Streak

Spurs struggle to capitalise on early advantage as Postecoglou’s side falls short again.

Tottenham’s alarming tendency to squander promising positions continued with a disappointing 2-1 loss to West Ham, extending Ange Postecoglou’s winless run to five matches. Spurs once again failed to build on an early lead, which in this case came from a header by Cristian Romero, and paid the price for their missed opportunities.

Similar to previous defeats against Chelsea, Wolves, Aston Villa, and Manchester City, Tottenham allowed West Ham to get back into the match, with the hosts benefiting from a combination of bad luck and poor decision-making in the second half. A fortunate strike from Jarrod Bowen levelled the score early after the break, and James Ward-Prowse capitalised on an error by Destiny Udogie, whose weak back-pass to goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario was punished by Bowen’s pressure.

This ongoing trend of failing to protect leads will surely frustrate Postecoglou, who is well aware of the root cause: Tottenham’s lack of clinical finishing. While some could blame the defence, particularly Udogie’s costly mistake, Postecoglou’s focus is firmly on the attacking deficiencies. Even if Spurs had conceded the two goals, their failure to take a number of early chances still left them short of the three points.

This defeat echoed their previous home loss to Aston Villa, where Spurs squandered several first-half opportunities. Postecoglou had emphasised ahead of the match that his team needed to improve their attacking play, and once again, it was clear that missed chances were their downfall. Giovani Lo Celso, despite creating opportunities, couldn’t unlock the West Ham defence. Brennan Johnson failed to capitalise on promising positions, while Richarlison, brought on as a substitute, wasted a header when he should have scored.

While Heung-min Son was quiet and Dejan Kulusevski didn’t make the desired impact on the right wing, the absence of nine senior players is also a factor. Despite this, the performance felt like another self-inflicted loss, one that was all too familiar.

The loss to West Ham, a direct rival, felt especially damaging for Postecoglou’s side. Tottenham have shown at times they can produce exceptional build-up play, but without more fluidity and effectiveness in the final third, they risk more of these disappointing results. For Spurs to turn things around, they must find a way to click in front of goal and be more ruthless with their chances.

David Moyes Hopes West Ham’s Stunning Comeback Against Tottenham Marks a Key Moment for the Club

David Moyes Hopes West Ham’s Stunning Comeback Against Tottenham Marks a Key Moment for the Club

Hammers’ victory boosts confidence, with Moyes looking to build on strong performances.

David Moyes described West Ham’s thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Tottenham as a “significant moment” for the club, believing the result could act as a turning point. The Hammers, who were under pressure throughout the match, fought back with goals from Jarrod Bowen and James Ward-Prowse to secure the win in north London. Despite Spurs dominating the early stages, West Ham stood firm and absorbed the pressure before turning the match in their favour.

This victory moves them just three points behind Tottenham, maintaining their impressive away form this season, with only Manchester City and Premier League leaders Arsenal securing more points on the road than West Ham.

Moyes acknowledged that his team has had difficulties against the top sides in the league, especially away from home. However, he believes this triumph could be a catalyst for the team’s future performances.

“This was an important moment for our supporters,” Moyes commented. “They want to see us competing with the best, and we want to show we’re capable of that. Right now, Tottenham are one of the strongest teams in the league, but we’ve lacked these kinds of moments. We want to be that team – the one that consistently wins these games and delivers for the fans. Tonight was one of those moments.”

Looking ahead, Moyes is optimistic about what the victory will bring, both for the team’s confidence and for the supporters, adding, “We’ve got a very good squad, we’re climbing the table, and we’re doing well in Europe too. Hopefully, this momentum continues.”