Breaking
Wealth World News
Archive

2024

Browsing
Politics

The issue that could cost Trump the 2024 campaign

Joe Biden is the most unpopular president since World War II. And yet, he could win reelection. Why? Because Democrats will continue to demagogue abortion politics and, especially in certain critical swing states like Arizona, the fight over abortion could mean a win for Joe. If they want to defeat Biden, Republicans must solve this problem. 

Nikki Haley could help. Haley, the former governor of South Carolina, lost the GOP primary race to former president Donald Trump but earned considerable support among women and centrist Republicans by adopting a moderate stance on abortion. She rightly says that Trump must now win over those voters; he will need the backing of his entire party to win, as well as a good percentage of Independents. Convincing Haley to become his ambassador on the issue of abortion, charged with touring the country and telling voters the truth about the Democrats’ extreme and heinous position on this issue, would help his cause. 

Democrats, though they deny it, want to allow abortion up to nine months; their position is disgusting and not popular with most Americans. That’s the law they passed in New York; that’s what they want nationwide. Haley has credibility on this issue; she could help convince voters that Democrats are the abortion extremists, not Republicans. 

Given the rancor and mud-slinging between the two, Trump will not ask Haley to be his running mate. But unless his former U.N. ambassador intends to run on a third-party ticket, which she has said she will not do, Haley will presumably want to engage in Republican politics in the future. Helping the GOP candidate win in November would go a long way towards rebuilding her battered standing in the party. 

For both Trump and Haley, a partnership would offer big dividends.

Donald Trump sees the light; he has signaled support for legalizing abortion up through 16 weeks of pregnancy, making exceptions for rape, incest or the health of the mother. This is the middle ground and is where the majority of the country falls.

The liberal media, however, will not have it. When news leaked of Trump adopting this widely-accepted position, a headline from Rolling Stone blared ‘Trump Wants to Ban Abortion Nationwide: Report’; others followed suit.

Nikky Haley declared herself throughout her campaign as ‘proudly pro-life’ but managed to craft a tolerant position on abortion that recognized the deeply personal nature of the decision some women make to end a pregnancy.

Haley commented in one GOP debate, ‘I don’t judge anyone for being pro-choice, and I don’t want them to judge me for being pro-life.’ She urged her rivals, ‘Let’s find consensus. … We don’t need to divide America over this issue anymore.’  

Haley and Trump recognize reality. They know that pro-choice advocates have won every single vote on abortion in every single state, including deep-red Kansas and that the issue drives turnout and funding for Democrats.  They fear that even as women are currently abandoning Joe Biden because they dislike his economic or immigration policies, come November those voters will choose pro-choice over pro-life.

How extreme are Democrats? In 2021, 49 Democrats in the Senate voted for H. R. 3755, the ‘Women’s Health Protection Act of 2021.’  The legislation was meant to (as the New York Times reported) ‘enshrine the landmark Roe v. Wade precedent in federal law.’ The Times failed to include a link to the actual legislation, perhaps because it is horrifying.  

The bill would have allowed abortion up through nine months of pregnancy, when, ‘in the good-faith medical judgment of the treating health care provider, continuation of the pregnancy would pose a risk to the pregnant patient’s life or health.’ 

Any health-care provider, including a ‘physician, certified nurse-midwife, nurse practitioner, [or] physician assistant’ could decide that the mother’s life was at risk, even a day before the baby was due. In other words, a woman claiming stress could convince a nurse practitioner that she needed to abort a baby at eight months. That position is abhorrent, but is actually what Democrats adopted in New York several years ago.  

Abortion will likely be on the ballot in several critical swing states, including Arizona. Pro-life activists in the state, who have launched a ‘decline to sign’ movement, probably cannot prevent pro-choice advocates from gathering the 400,000 signatures necessary to put an abortion petition up for a vote. Having abortion on the ballot will make it much, much harder for Donald Trump to win the state. 

Nevada, another toss-up state, may also include an abortion petition on their November ballot. Other states, like Maryland, could host an abortion vote which most likely would not impact the presidential race but could sideswipe the possibility of popular governor Larry Hogan picking up a senate seat for the GOP.

Anger over the dismantling of Roe v Wade cost the GOP what should have been a red wave rebuking an unpopular president in the 2022 midterm elections and has resulted in Republican losses in several special elections held since. 

Last year in Ohio, a state Donald Trump won by 8 points in 2020, voters approved by a 57% majority an amendment to the state’s constitution which would protect abortion rights. In that vote, the pro-abortion forces outraised the pro-life opponents nearly three-to-one, bringing in tens of millions of dollars from out-of-state groups. That win encouraged Democrats to ensure the issue is on the ballot in as many states as possible this fall. 

This effort should galvanize Republicans and the Trump campaign. They need to adopt a position and message to voters on abortion that will help defuse the issue. Haley could help.

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS
Keep Reading
By
Politics

Biden warned about ‘meddling’ in Israeli politics after intel report says Netanyahu’s leadership ‘in jeopardy’

An American intelligence agency released an assessment that determined Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s tenure faces serious challenges, with one expert warning the report could give the appearance of trying to influence Israeli voters.

‘We didn’t need an intelligence assessment to read Israeli public opinion polls. Israel is a democracy and has a free press. The politics of Israel are on full display,’ Richard Goldberg, a senior adviser at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and a former National Security Council official, told Fox News Digital. 

‘The fact that ODNI inserted this section and framed it in this manner reeks of an administration trying to meddle in Israeli democracy and put pressure on the government,’ Goldberg added. 

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI)’s report noted that the already prevalent ‘lack of confidence’ in Netanyahu’s governance, which took a significant hit due to the Oct. 7 terrorist attack, has ‘deepened and expanded even more than before the war, and we are witnessing large protests demanding his resignation.’

‘A different and more moderate government is a possible scenario,’ the report stated. It also claimed Israel is expected to face increasing international pressure as a result of the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, The Jerusalem Post reported.

‘Netanyahu’s viability as leader, as well as his governing coalition of far-right and ultra-orthodox parties that pursued hardline policies on Palestinian and security issues, may be in jeopardy,’ the report said.

A senior Israeli official pushed back on the report, saying, ‘Those who elect the prime minister of Israel are the citizens of Israel and no one else. Israel is not a vassal state of the U.S. but an independent and democratic country whose citizens are the ones who elect the government,’ according to Axios.

‘We expect our friends to act to overthrow the terror regime of Hamas and not the elected government in Israel,’ a statement from the official sent to reporters Tuesday said, according to the Axios report. 

The ODNI report further discussed that armed resistance from Hamas will likely continue for years as the IDF works to eradicate all traces of Hamas tunnels and bases of operation. But it also claimed Israel and Iran have started to adjust their actions to prevent a wider conflict between the two countries, which could prove disastrous for the region. 

‘We assess that the Iranian leadership was not involved in the planning of the October 7 attack and that it had no prior information about the attack,’ the report said. 

Yair Lapid, former Israeli prime minister and leader of the opposition, has repeatedly urged the Knesset to hold elections and select a new leader in the face of Netanyahu’s failures. Lapid’s Yesh Atid party filed a ‘no confidence’ motion against Netanyahu in January, but the effort failed a vote in the Knesset. 

‘This government cannot continue to exist. It is a failure that costs human lives and the future of the country,’ Yesh Atid said after the Knesset passed a $14.5 billion budget that it argued ‘favors unnecessary offices and coalition funds over aid to evacuees, reservists and to strengthening the sense of security.’

Netanyahu has found himself facing some friction with President Biden after the U.S. president was caught on a hot mic moment following the State of the Union claiming he told his Israeli counterpart, ‘You and I are going to have a ‘come to Jesus’ moment,’ referring to a moment of major realization. 

At a White House press briefing Tuesday, though, it was revealed the two leaders may not have spoken in over a month. In response to a question from reporters, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan insisted the two governments ‘have communicated throughout the month.’ 

‘Let’s see what happens [in Rafah]. … The issue is what happens on the ground and not what happens in the back and forth of words,’ Sullivan said.

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS
Keep Reading
By
Politics

US-Israeli citizen who was kidnapped on Oct. 7 confirmed dead, IDF says

A U.S.-Israeli citizen who was kidnapped on Oct. 7 while Hamas terrorists invaded southern Israel and massacred hundreds has been confirmed dead, the Israel Defense Forces announced.

The Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum headquarters said it was mourning the slaying of Sergeant Itay Chen, who served on the Gaza border and was taken hostage on what is considered in Israel as ‘Black Saturday.’ Itay’s body ‘is still being held captive by Hamas,’ according to Israeli officials. 

‘We share in the profound grief of the Chen family. Itay Chen (19) was always surrounded by friends. A beloved individual who drew others to him with his warm presence. Itay loved the land, going on hikes, and was a senior instructor in youth movements – a salt of the earth person,’ a statement in his memory read. 

‘Itay was very attached to Gucci, the family’s pet dog,’ the statement continued. ‘He played basketball greatly enjoyed sports, good food, and listening to music. Itay was the middle child of three siblings. He had been in a relationship for over a year with Neta, whom he called the love of his life.’ 

As of Tuesday, there are 134 hostages who remain held in Gaza, and 34 of them are considered dead.

President Biden issued a statement through the White House reacting to the news of Chen’s death. 

‘Today, our hearts are heavy. Jill and I are devastated to learn that American Itay Chen was killed by Hamas during its brutal terrorist assault on October 7,’ Biden said. 
 
‘In December, Itay’s father and brother joined me at the White House, to share the agony and uncertainty they’ve faced as they prayed for the safe return of their loved one. No one should have to endure even one day of what they have gone through. At the end of our meeting, they gave me a menorah – a solemn reminder that light will always dispel the darkness, and evil will not win,’ he continued. ‘Today, as we join Itay’s parents, brothers, and family in grieving this tragic loss, we keep this reminder close to our hearts. And I reaffirm my pledge to all the families of those still held hostage: we are with you. We will never stop working to bring your loved ones home.’ 

Chen’s parents and an aunt attended Biden’s State of the Union address last week as guests of Sens. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. 

Chen was on active duty in a tank unit on Oct. 7. The Times of Israel reported that he was last heard from at 6:40 a.m. the morning of the attack.

Chen was one of six U.S. citizens who remained held by Hamas. During his State of the Union address on Thursday, Biden said he had been ‘working non-stop to establish an immediate ceasefire’ that would last for six weeks to get all the remaining hostages released. 

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS
Keep Reading
By
Politics

Hur transcript confirms Biden memory lapses, contradicts president’s claim about exchange over son’s death

The newly released transcript of Special Counsel Robert Hur’s interview with President Biden has confirmed the president’s frequent memory lapses, as well as contradicted his claims surrounding their exchange over his son Beau’s death, a Fox News Digital review of the transcript has found.

Fox News Digital obtained a copy of the transcript ahead of Hur’s Tuesday testimony on Capitol Hill surrounding the probe into Biden’s mishandling of classified documents. Hur released his report to the public in February, but did not recommend criminal charges against the president, characterizing him as an ‘elderly man with a poor memory.’ 

Hur noted in the report that Biden struggled to remember details about when his son died, which drew sharp backlash from the president, who blasted Hur during a press conference.

‘How in the h— dare he raise that,’ Biden said. ‘Frankly, when I was asked the question I thought to myself it wasn’t any of their d— business.’

However, Fox later confirmed it was actually Biden who first brought up Beau’s death, a detail also reflected in the transcript.

While discussing his activities post-vice presidency, which included writing a book about Beau’s death, Biden referenced the death as a major factor in his decision about whether to run for president. During that portion of the interview, Biden appeared to become confused about when Beau died.

‘I hadn’t walked away from the idea that I may run for office again. But if I ran again, I’d be running for president,’ Biden said. ‘And, and so what was happening though — what month did Beau die? Oh, God, May 30th —’

Biden was reminded by multiple people that Beau died in 2015, but later asked again, ‘Was it 2015 he had died?’

The transcript also showed Biden asking multiple times when his term as vice president ended while being questioned specifically about some of the classified documents at his home.

‘Well, I’m sure, I’m sure there were. I don’t know — my problem was I never knew where any of the documents or boxes were specifically coming from or who packed them. Just did I get them delivered to me. And so this is — I’m, at this stage, in 2009, am I still Vice President?’ Biden said.

Another instance included Biden being asked about a notebook in his possession related to the war in Afghanistan.

‘The date is 4-20-09,’ Biden said. ‘Was I still vice president? I was, wasn’t I? Yeah.’

Hur began his public testimony at the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday morning.

Fox News’ Sarah Rumpf-Whitten and Jake Gibson contributed to this report.

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS
Keep Reading
By
Politics

Hur testifies Biden ‘willfully retained classified materials,’ but prosecutors ‘had to consider’ mental state

Ex-Special Counsel Robert Hur testified Tuesday that President Biden ‘willfully retained classified materials’ but said he ‘had to consider’ the president’s ‘memory and overall mental state’ when determining whether to bring charges against him.

Hur, who testified publicly before the House Judiciary and Oversight committees on Tuesday, explained that he did not bring charges against the president despite the willful retention of classified records about military and foreign policy in Afghanistan and other countries, among other records related to national security and foreign policy, which Hur said implicated ‘sensitive intelligence sources and methods.’

‘My team and I conducted a thorough, independent investigation,’ Hur testified. ‘We identified evidence that the president willfully retained classified materials after the end of his vice presidency, when he was a private citizen.’ 

‘This evidence included an audio-recorded conversation during which Mr. Biden told his ghostwriter that he had ‘just found all the classified stuff downstairs.’ When Mr. Biden said this, he was a private citizen speaking to his ghostwriter in his private rental home in Virginia,’ Hur continued. ‘We also identified other recorded conversations during which Mr. Biden read classified information aloud to his ghostwriter.’

He added, though, that ‘we did not, however, identify evidence that rose to the level of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Because the evidence fell short of that standard, I declined to recommend criminal charges against Mr. Biden.’ 

But Hur said he ‘needed to explain why’ he declined prosecution.

‘I had to consider the president’s memory and overall mental state and how a jury likely would perceive his memory and mental state in a criminal trial,’ Hur testified. ‘These are the types of issues prosecutors analyze every day. And because these issues were important to my ultimate decision, I had to include a discussion of them in my report to the attorney general.’

Hur, in his report, described Biden as a ‘sympathetic, well-meaning elderly man with a poor memory’ – a description that has raised significant concerns for Biden’s 2024 reelection campaign.

‘The evidence and the president himself put his memory squarely at issue. We interviewed the president and asked him about his recorded statement, ‘I just found all the classified stuff downstairs.’ He told us that he didn’t remember saying that to his ghostwriter,’ Hur said. ‘He also said he didn’t remember finding any classified material in his home after his vice presidency. And he didn’t remember anything about how classified documents about Afghanistan made their way into his garage.’ 

Hur defended himself by saying his assessment in the report ‘about the relevance of the president’s memory was necessary and accurate and fair.’

‘Most importantly, what I wrote is what I believe the evidence shows and what I expect jurors would perceive and believe. I did not sanitize my explanation, nor did I disparage the president unfairly,’ Hur testified. ‘I explained to the attorney general my decision and the reasons for it. That’s what I was required to do.’

Hur’s opening statement came after House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan began the hearing by playing a video of Biden speaking about the former special counsel’s report on the day it was released. 

‘Mr. Hur produced a 345-page report. But in the end, it boils down to a few key facts. Joe Biden kept classified information,’ Jordan said. ‘Joe Biden failed to properly secure classified information. And Joe Biden shared classified information with people he wasn’t supposed to.’

‘We’re going to play a short video of President Biden’s press conference after your report was released,’ Jordan added. ‘Because there’s things in this press conference that the United States says that are directly contradicted by what you found in your report.’ 

A transcript of President Biden’s interviews with Robert Hur appears to contradict Biden’s claim that the former special counsel had asked him about the date of Beau Biden’s death.

But ranking member Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., blasted former President Trump, who was charged by Special Counsel Jack Smith related to his own alleged mishandling of classified records. Trump pleaded not guilty. 

The former president and presumptive 2024 GOP nominee posted on Truth Social before Hur’s testimony, saying the Justice Department gave Biden a ‘free pass.’

‘Big day in Congress for the Biden Documents Hoax,’ Trump wrote on his Truth Social account. ‘He had many times more documents, including classified documents, than I, or any other president, had. He had them all over the place, with ZERO supervision or security. He does NOT come under the Presidential Records Act, I DO.’

‘The DOJ gave Biden, and virtually every other person and President, a free pass. Me, I’m still fighting!!!’ Trump added.

Trump was charged out of Smith’s investigation related to his retention of classified materials. Trump pleaded not guilty to all 37 felony charges out of Smith’s probe. The charges include willful retention of national defense information, conspiracy to obstruct justice and false statements. 

Nadler played a video of clips of Trump speaking, putting into question his ‘mental state.’ 

‘That is a man who is incapable of avoiding criminal liability. A man who is wholly unfit for office … a man who, at the very least, ought to think twice before accusing others of cognitive decline,’ Nadler said of Trump, adding that Hur’s report ‘represents the complete and total exoneration of President Biden.’

Meanwhile, House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, R-Ky., said in his opening statement that his panel has subpoenaed ex-White House counsel Dana Remus and tied Hur’s testimony into the larger House impeachment inquiry against the president. 

Comer for months has been demanding answers on whether the classified records Biden improperly retained were related to countries that his family did business with. 

House Oversight Committee ranking member Jamie Raskin, D-Md., piggybacked Nadler’s opening statement by bringing the conversation back to Trump.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS
Keep Reading
By
Politics

Hur testifies he ‘did identify evidence’ that ‘pride and money’ motivated Biden to retain classified records

Ex-Special Counsel Robert Hur agreed that he identified evidence that ‘pride and money’ were ‘strong’ motivating factors for President Biden to retain classified records, as the former vice president sought to keep materials to use for a memoir he wrote that brought him $8 million.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan questioned Hur during a public hearing Tuesday and asked him ‘why did Joe Biden, in your words, willfully retain and disclose classified material?’ 

‘He knew the law. Been in office like 50 years, five decades in the United States Senate; chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee; eight years as vice president; he got briefed every day as vice president; he’s been in the Situation Room,’ Jordan said. ‘In fact you know he knew the rules because you said so on page 226.’ 

Jordan referred to Hur’s report, in which he stated that Biden ‘was deeply familiar with the measures taken to safeguard classified documents.’ 

When pressed on why Biden broke those rules, Hur replied that his ‘conclusion as to exactly why the president did what he did is not one that we explicitly address in the report.’ 

But Jordan pushed back. 

‘I think he did tell us,’ Jordan said. ‘I think you told us, Mr. Hur. Page 231. You said this: ‘President Biden had strong motivations,’ that’s a key word. We’re getting to motive now. ‘President Biden had strong motivations to ignore the proper procedures for safeguarding the classified information in his notebooks.’’ 

‘Why did he have strong motivations? Because, next word, because he decided months before leaving office to write a book,’ Jordan said. ‘That was his motive. He knew the rules. He broke them because he was writing a book.’ 

Jordan reminded that Hur explained that Biden ‘began meeting with the ghostwriter’ for that book while he was still vice president. 

‘There’s the motive,’ Jordan said. ‘How much did President Biden get paid for his book.’ 

Hur noted that the figure is stated in the report, and replied: ‘It may be $8 million, if that’s accurate.’ 

‘$8 million. Joe Biden had 8 million reasons to break the rules, took classified information, and shared it with the guy who was writing the book,’ Jordan said. ‘He knew the rules, but he broke them big for $8 million in a book advance.’ 

Jordan, quoting Hur’s report, said Biden ‘viewed his notebooks as an irreplaceable, contemporaneous record of the most important moments of his vice presidency.’ 

‘He’d written this all down for the book, for the $8 million,’ Jordan said, further quoting Hur’s report which stated: ‘Such record would buttress his legacy as a world leader.’ 

Jordan said that the breaking of the rules ‘wasn’t just the money.’ 

‘It was also his ego,’ Jordan said. ‘Pride and money is why he knowingly violated the rules — the oldest motives in the book — pride and money.’ 

Jordan added: ‘You agree with that, Mr. Hur? You wrote it in your report.’ 

Hur replied: ‘That language does appear in the report. And we did identify evidence supporting those assessments.’ 

Hur’s report said that Biden risked ‘serious damage’ to America’s national security when he shared the classified information with the ghostwriter of his book. 

Hur testified that ghostwriter, Mark Zwonitzer, had audio recordings of his conversations with Biden, in which the then-vice president read information from classified records. 

With those recordings, though, Hur testified that Zwonitzer ‘slid those files into his recycle bin on his computer’ upon learning that a special counsel had been appointed to investigate the matter.

Jordan asked if the ghostwriter tried to ‘destroy the evidence.’ 

‘Correct,’ Hur testified. 

‘The very guy who was helping Joe Biden get the $8 million, $8 million Joe Biden used — the motive for Joe Biden to to disclose classified information to retain classified information, which he definitely knew was against the law, When you get named special counsel, what’s that guy do? He destroys the evidence,’ Jordan said. ‘That’s the key take away in my mind. That’s the key takeaway.’ 

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS
Keep Reading
By
Politics

House GOP exposes ‘woke’ items in Biden’s $7.3 trillion budget

House Republicans are furious over ‘woke’ programs President Biden wants to fund in his $7.3 trillion budget request.

Biden released his 188-page proposal to fund the federal government on Monday. It lays out roughly $5 trillion in tax increases overall, which the White House said would be split evenly between corporations and the top 2% of earners.

A new memo by House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington, R-Texas, highlighted billions aimed at green energy initiatives and equity programs.

Meanwhile, the U.S. national debt is currently just under $34.5 trillion and the federal budget deficit is $531 billion, according to the latest data.

The document pointed to $3 billion for the State Department to ‘advance gender equity and equality worldwide,’ as well as $1.5 billion for the Transportation Security Administration’s ‘pay equity initiative.’

It also mentioned $11 billion that Biden wants for the Department of Interior to ‘preserve the stories of the cultures and history across America.’

On climate change, Biden is seeking $8 billion for his American Climate Corps, aimed at hiring 50,000 new staffers by 2031 to ‘mobilize a new, diverse generation of… climate resilience workers,’ according to Arrington’s memo.

The Texas Republican also flagged $10.6 billion that Biden wants for the Department of Energy to bolster ‘climate and clean energy research, development, demonstration and deployment programs’ – a 12% increase from the previous year.

Biden is also seeking $1.5 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights’ ‘environmental justice efforts,’ as well as $500 million for the Green Climate Fund to ‘expand climate adaptation and mitigation projects in developing countries,’ the memo said.

The president also requested $90 billion to expand access to free community college, even after pushback from both the House and Senate on his efforts to broadly forgive student debt.

‘Budgets are more than just numbers on a spreadsheet – they are a set of values and principles – and based on his FY25 budget, it is clear President Biden values a bigger, more radical, and more powerful federal government over the freedom, safety and economic security of his fellow Americans,’ Arrington told Fox News Digital.

The budget is largely symbolic and has virtually no chance of passing the Republican-controlled House. 

However, it is a significant part of the president’s pitch to voters as he seeks to win another term in November.

Fox News Digital reached out to the White House for comment on Arrington’s memo.

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS
Keep Reading
By
Sports

NFL mock draft: Four QBs in top five picks after proposed trade

Until free agency begins, NFL mock drafts are little more than an entertaining thought exercise.

But Monday’s opening of the negotiating window or ‘legal tampering period’ served as a reminder about the calendar and how much change could still be ahead. NFL teams are putting their offseason plans into action, reaching agreements before the official start of the new league year on Wednesday as they reconfigure rosters and tinker with their salary-cap standing. And while teams are still setting up moves that will further reshape the draft, the first flurry of action did help shift the outlook for several teams.

With that in mind, here’s USA TODAY Sports’ latest 2024 NFL mock draft after the first day of free agency:

1. Chicago Bears – Caleb Williams, QB, USC

Even with Justin Fields seemingly in limbo, there’s no point in entertaining any other possibility here right now. All signs point to the Bears staying in this slot and selecting Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner and future face of a franchise. Chicago will have to find a way to harness his playmaking ability while figuring out how to get him to play on schedule more often, but that’s the kind of problem this organization will gladly take on given the opportunity to change course from its woeful history behind center.

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

2. Washington Commanders – Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

What once looked like a relatively straightforward pick now serves as the first inflection points of this year’s draft, as there could be a great debate between Daniels and Drake Maye here. For now, let’s entertain the possibility that the Commanders go with Daniels. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner’s knack for operating as a cool distributor from the pocket and an electric running threat outside of it makes him a fascinating potential fit for new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury. 

3. New England Patriots – Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

If new personnel chief Eliot Wolf is going to stand by his remark that New England needs to ‘weaponize the offense,’ placing Maye at the center of that effort makes a lot of sense. The 6-4, 223-pound signal-caller strikes a stark contrast from the options New England has had at quarterback in the post-Tom Brady era, as his rare arm strength and ability to throw on the move can vex opposing defenses. There’s a fine mentor waiting in Jacoby Brissett, who can hold down the starting role for however long is needed before Maye or any other rookie proves capable of running the show.

4. Arizona Cardinals – Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

For as much as things might change around Arizona, the upshot for this selection seems to remain the same. So long as Harrison is available, it should be a no-brainer for the Cardinals to take arguably this class’ most complete prospect. It’s only if the Patriots take the two-time unanimous All-American that things truly start to become interesting, with a trade back sizing up as the most appealing potential option. 

5. Minnesota Vikings (via proposed trade with Los Angeles Chargers) – J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Would Minnesota be content to trade to this spot knowing it might have to settle for its fourth choice to replace Kirk Cousins? Maybe a move wouldn’t be reasonable until draft day, when general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and Co. could see how the top few picks panned out. But going with Sam Darnold as a bridge option to start off 2024 while sitting and developing McCarthy seems like a relatively sound strategy for an organization that suddenly has had change behind center thrust upon it.

6. New York Giants – Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Tough break for Joe Schoen, as the top four quarterbacks and Harrison are all off the board before Big Blue gets to pick. Still, Nabers is no mere consolation prize, as he has shown he can be a go-to threat capable of bringing the big play back for Daniel Jones and a passing attack that only extends defenses so much.

7. Tennessee Titans – Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

Spending big on center Lloyd Cushenberry reinforced general manager Ran Carthon’s commitment to running this rebuild through the offensive front. At 6-9 and 321 pounds, Alt can be a towering presence at left tackle for years to come. 

8. Atlanta Falcons – Dallas Turner, OLB, Alabama

9. Chicago Bears – Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

If there’s a dream scenario for Chicago, this might be it. Equipping Williams with a well-built target who can bail out his quarterback with his ball skills and body control looks like a surefire way to get this new era off to a solid start.

10. New York Jets – Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State

A reunion between Aaron Rodgers and David Bakhtiari would make a lot of sense, especially given the win-now mandate facing Gang Green. Yet this is a group that requires reinforcements in multiple spots, and it isn’t prudent to fully trust Rodgers’ blind side to a 32-year-old who has played in 13 games the last three seasons due to knee issues. Though he’s still finding his way, Fashanu is nimble and has all the pass-protecting traits worth bringing along.

11. Chargers (via proposed trade with Vikings) – Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman have made it known they want to ramp up the ground game in Los Angeles right away. The massive and aggressive Fuaga would no doubt be an immediate asset in that effort, helping clear openings for Gus Edwards and any of the Bolts’ other backs. 

12. Denver Broncos – Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

Given that riding things out with Jarrett Stidham seems like a highly questionable move for Sean Payton in Year 2, a quarterback has to be in play either here or the second round. In this case, however, the Broncos stick to the value equation and provide their future starting passer with a significant weapon in Bowers, who should quickly establish himself as a major threat after the catch.

13. Las Vegas Raiders – JC Latham, OT, Alabama

After making a big splash with the signing of defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, general manager Tom Telesco has to prioritize building out the offense in the draft. Latham can step into the void at right tackle left by Jermaine Eluemunor joining the Giants, giving the team a patient yet punishing presence up front.

14. New Orleans Saints – Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

Perennially committed to winning now above all else, the Saints are due for an upgrade on the interior defensive line even after taking Bryan Bresee in the first round last year. Murphy is extremely difficult for any blocker to keep at bay thanks to his quickness and power, traits that should allow him to be a disruptive force early in his career.

15. Indianapolis Colts – Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

Like Mitchell staying glued to a receiver deep downfield, we’ve been sticking with this one for a while now. After showing off his skills and well-rounded athleticism at the Senior Bowl and combine, Mitchell has demonstrated he could change the complexion of the Colts’ undermanned secondary.

16. Seattle Seahawks – Troy Fautanu, G/T, Washington

With former Washington offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb taking over the reins to the Seahawks’ attack, there’s plenty of reason to link Fautanu with Seattle. Beyond the level of familiarity, though, the collegiate left tackle looks ready to become a smooth-moving guard who could help stabilize the Seahawks’ front.

17. Jacksonville Jaguars – Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

Yes, Jacksonville spent a sizable sum to bring on a deep threat in Gabe Davis. But unless the team can also bring back Calvin Ridley, general manager Trent Baalke could find it hard to pass on Thomas, who will be a major matchup problem thanks to his 6-3, 209-pound frame and 4.33-second speed in the 40-yard dash.

18. Cincinnati Bengals – Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

Unless the Bengals decide to oblige Tee Higgins’ trade request, there’s no need to panic at receiver. Measuring in at 6-8 and 340 pounds at the combine, Mims showed himself to be a blocker with singular physical tools. He’s the kind of high-upside option the Bengals have to consider as a Jonah Williams replacement at right tackle.

19. Los Angeles Rams – Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

The Rams’ choice here might come down to either edge rusher or cornerback. In this scenario, Arnold would stand above the alternatives thanks to his burgeoning skill set and lockdown potential.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers – Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

The Russell Wilson signing allows Pittsburgh to refocus its offseason on matters more in line with the Steelers’ typically priorities. Powers-Johnson can help the offense get back to its rugged roots, as the Rimington Award winner and unanimous All-American relishes tossing opponents out of his way.

21. Miami Dolphins – Graham Barton, G, Duke

Miami lost several key contributors this offseason, but Robert Hunt’s departure looms as a particularly problematic hit if not addressed properly. While his frame might portend a move inside, Barton otherwise is a very complete prospect as a polished protector ready to be a starter from Day 1.

22. Philadelphia Eagles – Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

Philadelphia hasn’t taken a first-round cornerback since Lito Sheppard in 2002, but maybe Howie Roseman is willing to alter his approach after he finally ponied up for a big-money running back with Saquon Barkley. If Roseman does go this route, Wiggins would be a worthy consideration, with the 6-1, 173-pounder displaying the long speed (4.28-second 40-yard dash) to stick with even the most dangerous deep threats. 

23. Houston Texans (from Cleveland Browns) – Jared Verse, DE, Florida State

Losing Jonathan Greenard to the Vikings leaves a sizable hole on DeMeco Ryans’ front four opposite Will Anderson Jr., the reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better fit for Ryans’ defense than Verse, a relentless rusher who’s just as comfortable pushing opposing linemen backward as he is racing past them.

24. Dallas Cowboys – Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

Tyron Smith’s impending exit should have Jerry Jones and Co. on edge, as there are no easy patches for losing a mainstay left tackle. Guyton is raw as a blocker, but a 6-8, 322-pound player with his rare movement ability screams blindside protector. 

25. Green Bay Packers – Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

Xavier McKinney checks the safety box and adds plenty of versatility for new coordinator Jeff Hafley’s defense. But there’s still more room for playmakers on the back end, and DeJean can still stick as a cornerback capable of handling a variety of assignments. 

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

The Buccaneers looked to have avoided an offseason of significant change after re-signing Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans and franchise-tagging Antoine Winfield Jr., but things changed Monday when the team dealt cornerback Carlton Davis to the Detroit Lions. Battle-tested and savvy, McKinstry brings an even-keeled approach to the position that should help him get a quick handle on a starting role.

27. Cardinals (from Texans) – Chop Robinson, DE/OLB, Penn State

Even after a handful of early moves in free agency, Arizona is still sorely lacking a difference-maker in its front seven. Robinson showcased his rapid burst and explosiveness at the combine, leaving little question that his superlative athleticism is worth the gamble of a late first-round selection.

28. Buffalo Bills – Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

Gabe Davis is gone, as are a host of other veterans who were staples of the past few years. Additional firepower is required to keep the offense going, and the electric Mitchell could form a scintillating connection with Josh Allen.

29. Detroit Lions – Darius Robinson, DE, Missouri

The native of Southfield, Michigan, said at the NFL scouting combine it would be a ‘dream come true’ to be taken by his hometown team. With the Lions adding Marcus Davenport opposite Aidan Hutchinson, Robinson could begin his career as part of a pass-rush rotation and hone his considerable physical tools at a moderate pace. 

30. Baltimore Ravens – Laiatu Latu, DE/OLB, UCLA

Eric DeCosta knows value when he sees it, and here he pounces on another draft-day slide. Latu, who was once medically retired due to a neck injury, is ready to make waves from Day 1 thanks to his refined approach, and he’d help new defensive coordinator Zach Orr reload the pass rush after the expected loss of Jadeveon Clowney.

31. San Francisco 49ers – Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

Offensive line has to be a focal point for a 49ers team with aspirations of returning to the Super Bowl stage. Morgan could thrive at guard, though he also has the potential to serve as an eventual successor to Trent Williams, who will turn 36 in July.

32. Kansas City Chiefs – Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia

Rather than go for broke by trying to bring on a big-play wide receiver, the Chiefs might want to embrace a new identity as an efficient football machine piloted by Patrick Mahomes. With his penchant for breaking free from defensive backs in the short to intermediate range, McConkey would figure to be a high-volume target who could keep Kansas City’s offense rolling.

This post appeared first on USA TODAY
Keep Reading
By
Sports

Connecticut, Marquette are top dogs for Big East men’s tournament

Mix some of the top national championship contenders with several teams on the bubble of the NCAA men’s tournament and you get what is shaping up to be a thrilling Big East tournament.

For the 42st time, the Big East will head to Madison Square Garden for its four-day conference extravaganza as it has become synonymous with having teams achieve March Madness success. Since 2011, the Big East has sent eight teams to the Final Four, five of which became national champions.

There’s a chance for the conference to send another squad to the Final Four this season with the worthy candidates sitting at the top of the standings. Those below add intrigue to the tournament with several teams trying to make a last-second case to the selection committee for why they should hear their named called on Selection Sunday. In total, eight teams from the Big East are in the running to hear their name called.

Big East tournament bracket, schedule, scores

At Madison Square Garden, New York

IT’S BRACKET MADNESS: Enter USA TODAY’s NCAA tournament bracket contest for a chance at $1 million prize.

First round

Wednesday March 13

Butler vs. Xavier, 4 p.m.

Providence vs. Georgetown, 6:30 p.m.

Villanova vs. DePaul, 9 p.m.

Quarterfinals

Thursday, March 14

Connecticut vs. Butler-Xavier winner, noon

Seton Hall vs. St. John’s, 2:30 p.m.

Creighton vs. Providence-Georgetown winner, 7 p.m.

Marquette vs. Villanova-DePaul winner, 9:30 p.m.

Semifinals

Friday, March 15

Connecticut-Butler-Xavier winner vs. Seton Hall-St. John’s winner, 5:30 p.m.

Creighton-Providence-Georgetown winner vs. Marquette-Villanova-DePaul, 8 p.m.

Championship

Saturday, March 16

Semifinal winners, 6:30 p.m.

Big East tournament favorites

Defending national champion Connecticut is the clear favorite after convincingly capturing the regular season title, but it hasn’t won the Big East tournament since rejoining the conference in 2020. Marquette won the tournament last year has a solid chance to defend its crown after another strong season, but also in the hunt is a Creighton team that is one of few teams that can say it beat the other Big East top teams.

Big East tournament top players

Tyler Kolek, G, Marquette − All eyes will be on the 2022-23 Big East Player of the Year after he missed the final three games with an injury. He averages 15.0 points a game and a Division I-high 7.6 assists per game.

Tristan Newton, G, Connecticut − The Huskies have several weapons, but Newton has continued his momentum from last season as he leads the team in points (15.1), rebounds (7.1) and assists (5.8).

Baylor Scheierman, G, Creighton − The do-it-all man for Creighton, Scheierman has elevated his game this season with a team-high 18.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game.

Eric Dixon, F, Villanova − Dixon can overpower most people inside the paint and has great decision making that leads to his 16.3 points per game. Can force defenses to adjust if his outside shots go in.

Devin Carter, G, Providence − The leading scorer in the Big East (19.4 ppg), Carter can light it up from beyond the arc as while giving Providence life.

NCAA tournament bubble storylines for the Big East

A whopping five teams will try to impress the tournament selection committee one last time. Despite being a high seed in the Big East, Seton Hall wants to solidify its spot in the tournament and get out of last four in territory, while Villanova and Providence still have plenty of hope to be among the last teams in after tough ends to the regular season. St. John’s has come back to life and into the tournament discussion after a late-season surge, and Butler needs a big weekend to steal a spot from one of its conference partners.

This post appeared first on USA TODAY
Keep Reading
By
Sports

Everything to know about MLB’s regular-season opener in South Korea

The San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers travel to Seoul, South Korea, to open the 2024 Major League Baseball season dubbed as the Seoul Series.

It will mark the first time a regular-season MLB game will be played in Korea. The Padres and Dodgers will play a two-game series March 20-21 while the majority of the league won’t begin their seasons until March 28.

For Los Angeles, it will mark the season debut of Shohei Othani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Tyler Glasnow, whom the Dodgers spent a combined $1.16 billion on during the winter.

How to watch the Padres-Dodgers series

March 20 at 6 a.m. ET on ESPN at Gocheok Sky Dome
March 21 at 6 a.m. ET on ESPN at Gocheok Sky Dome

HOT STOVE UPDATES: MLB free agency: Ranking and tracking the top players available.

Who are the probable pitchers for the Padres-Dodgers?

March 20:Yu Darvish, Padres (8-10, 4.56 ERA in 2023) vs. Tyler Glasnow, Dodgers (10-7, 3.53 ERA in 2023)
March 21: Joe Musgrove, Padres (10-3, 3.05 ERA in 2023) vs. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Dodgers (16-6, 1.21 ERA in Japan Pacific League in 2023)

Will Shohei Ohtani play in the Seoul Series?

Yes, Ohtani is expected to make his Dodgers debut as designated hitter. He is still recovering from Tommy John elbow surgery, so he won’t pitch.

Who will win the series between the Padres and Dodgers?

The Padres and Dodgers have had an intense division rivalry over the past few years. The Dodgers eliminated the Padres in the 2020 National League Division Series en route to their World Series championship. In 2023, the Padres upset the Dodgers in the NLDS, but lost to the Philadelphia Phillies in the NCLS.

Since 2020, the Dodgers lead the head-to-head regular season series 41-20 over the Padres.

What other exhibition games will be played in South Korea?

Prior to the opening games, the Padres and Dodgers will be participating in four exhibition games March 17 and 18.

On March 17, the Dodgers will play the Kiwoom Heroes and Team Korea will face the Padres. On March 18, the Padres will take on the LG Twins and Team Korea will take on the Dodgers.

This post appeared first on USA TODAY
Keep Reading
By