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Shocking Video Exposes Alleged Sexual Misconduct at HMP Wandsworth: Female Prison Officer Arrested

A woman has been arrested following the circulation of a video allegedly showing a prison officer engaging in sexual activity with an inmate at HMP Wandsworth in London. The Metropolitan Police launched an investigation on June 28th after being alerted to the footage, which was reportedly filmed inside the prison.

The video, which has been circulating on social media, appears to show a female prison officer in full uniform performing sexual acts with a prisoner in a cell. Another inmate is seen filming the encounter, making comments about “making history” and describing life at Wandsworth.

This incident occurs amid recent concerns about conditions at HMP Wandsworth. The prisons inspectorate had recently issued an urgent notice to the justice secretary regarding necessary improvements at the facility. Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor expressed serious concerns following a recent inspection, citing disorderly wings and staff’s inability to properly monitor inmates.

The Prison Service has stated they have a zero-tolerance policy towards staff corruption and reported the former prison officer to the police. The investigation is ongoing, with the arrested woman currently in police custody.

Watch the Uncensored video on our Telegram Channel Here 

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Africa News Top News World

Where and What Time to Watch the Trump-Biden Debate in Africa For Free

Get ready for a political spectacle as US President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump face off in their first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle. Set your alarms for Friday, June 28, as the 90-minute showdown kicks off at these times across Africa:

Trump vs Biden

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKIJIM WATSON/GETTY IMAGES

CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate the debate live from Atlanta, Georgia, covering crucial topics like the economy, immigration, and foreign policy.

Viewers across Africa have multiple options to catch the action:

  • CNN TV International (cable/satellite subscribers)
  • CNN.com (free streaming)
  • CNN’s YouTube channel
  • PBS NewsHour’s YouTube stream
  • Local broadcast networks (check availability)

Don’t miss this historic face-off between two political heavyweights. With both candidates in their late 70s, viewers will be keen to assess their cognitive abilities and emotional steadiness.

Brew some strong coffee, gather your friends, and witness a debate that could shape the future of US politics and its global impact. The race for the White House starts here!

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News Tech Top News World

Astronauts Stranded in Space for Weeks as Boeing Starliner Malfunctions

Two NASA astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, have been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) for over three weeks due to persistent technical problems with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. The astronauts were supposed to return to Earth after an eight-day mission, but their flight home has been postponed multiple times as NASA and Boeing work to troubleshoot issues with the spacecraft’s propulsion system.

The Starliner encountered setbacks even before launch, with delays in finalizing the version and a scheduled launch in May postponed twice due to a helium leak and power supply problems. Despite eventually launching on June 5th, the spacecraft has since experienced multiple helium leaks, malfunctioning thrusters, and a faulty propellant valve, necessitating solutions both in space and on Earth.

Five of the capsule’s 28 thrusters stopped working during docking, as the capsule moved in to link with the space station. All but one of the faulty thrusters worked during a later test, and NASA believes heat during the docking process caused the shutdown. The capsule is able to return safely without the final thruster, Boeing said.

The targeted return date is currently set for July 6th, elongating the mission from the initial eight days to a month. While the astronauts remain safe and well-provisioned on the ISS, the situation serves as a stark reminder of the risks and challenges associated with spaceflight. As the world watches with bated breath, NASA and Boeing continue to work tirelessly to resolve the Starliner’s issues and bring the astronauts home safely.

 

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News Top News World

Bolivian President Defies Attempted Coup, Restores Order

In a dramatic turn of events, Bolivian President Luis Arce has successfully thwarted an attempted coup d’état in the country. The day began with Arce raising the alarm about an “irregular” troop deployment in the capital, La Paz, hinting at a possible coup in progress.

Confronting the army’s general commander, Juan José Zúñiga, Arce asserted his authority, declaring, “I am your captain, and I order you to withdraw your soldiers, and I will not allow this insubordination.” Zúñiga had earlier addressed reporters, hinting at the formation of a new cabinet and the need for change in the country.

However, Arce’s unwavering stance and the mobilization of the Bolivian people in support of the democratically elected government ultimately led to the failure of the coup attempt. The newly appointed military chiefs have ordered all mobilized troops to return to their barracks, emphasizing the undesirability of the current street scenes.

Bolivia military Attempt coup
Military Police stand amid tear gas they fired outside the presidential palace in Plaza Murillo in La Paz, Bolivia, Wednesday, June 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Juan Karita)

The attempted coup has drawn widespread condemnation from regional and international leaders, with the Organization of American States (OAS) and the European Union denouncing any efforts to overthrow the democratically elected government. The situation remains fluid, but President Arce’s firm commitment to upholding democracy has been a crucial factor in thwarting the coup attempt.

 

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Africa Conspiracy Planet News Top News World

Kenyan X Influencers’ Shifting Stance on Reject Finance Bill Protests Sparks Suspicions of Sinister Western Funding

The recent protests against the Kenyan Finance Bill 2024, dubbed #RejectFinanceBill2024, have been a complex and evolving situation. Initially, the protests were led by a cohort of young Kenyan activists, primarily on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), who were fully behind the movement. However, the narrative has since shifted, raising suspicions about the true motivations behind the protests.

The Flip-Flopping of Kenyan X Influencers

The Kenyan X bigwigs who were at the forefront of the #RejectFinanceBill2024 protests have been accused of flip-flopping and using the trend to benefit themselves, rather than genuinely representing the interests of the Kenyan people. Several prominent X users were reportedly detained by the authorities ahead of the planned protests. This raised concerns about the government’s crackdown on dissent and the potential suppression of legitimate grievances.

However, after President Ruto’s decision to reject the finance bill, the narrative on X shifted, with some users seemingly abandoning the original cause and focusing on other issues. This has led to suspicions that the protests were not solely driven by genuine concerns about the finance bill, but rather were part of a broader agenda to disrupt and bring chaos to the Kenyan government. Some even went to the extent of pushing the narrative to Invade Statehouse and get the president out.  But somehow, this story is dwindling filled in with sobriety and thus ruining their legitima Suspicion of Western Influence Alongside the flip-flopping of Kenyan X users, there are also suspicions that the protests were orchestrated by Western powers, including organizations like the Open Society Foundation, with the aim of sabotaging President Ruto’s government.

These suspicions have been fueled by reports that letters from Boniface Mwangi and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) were soliciting funds from the Open Society Foundation. This has raised concerns about the potential involvement of external actors in the protests, casting doubt on the authenticity of the grassroots movement.

Furthermore, the shift in the narrative, from the specific concerns about the finance bill to broader allegations of disruption and chaos, has further strengthened the suspicion that the protests were not solely driven by the Kenyan people’s interests, but rather by a larger geopolitical agenda.

In conclusion, the #RejectFinanceBill2024 protests have become a complex and multifaceted issue, with the flip-flopping of Kenyan X users and the suspicion of Western influence raising questions about the true motivations behind the movement.

As the situation continues to evolve, it will be crucial for all stakeholders to approach the issue with transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to addressing the concerns of the Kenyan people.

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Tennis Top News World

The Inspiring Rise of Kenyan Tennis Sensation Angella Okutoyi

At just 20 years old, Kenyan tennis player Angella Okutoyi has already etched her name in the history books as a trailblazer for her country and the African continent. Her journey from growing up in an orphanage to becoming a Wimbledon champion is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the transformative impact of sport.

Okutoyi’s story begins in the slums of Nairobi, where she and her twin sister Roselida were raised by their grandmother after their mother tragically passed away during childbirth. Despite the financial hardships and lack of access to proper tennis facilities, the young Okutoyi found solace and joy on the court, honing her skills with the support of local coaches.

“Growing up, I remember there were times we didn’t eat, and the only meal would be just a cup of water and we would survive,” Okutoyi recalled. “That’s why I’m fearless, and I am strong.”

Okutoyi’s big break came in 2014 when she was selected to join the ITF East Africa Regional Training Centre in Burundi on a tennis scholarship. This opportunity allowed her to develop her game and compete on the junior circuit, where she quickly made a name for herself.

In 2018, at just 14 years old, Okutoyi became the youngest player to win the prestigious Kenya Open, upsetting three-time former champion Shufaa Changawa. This triumph was a watershed moment, not just for Okutoyi, but for Kenyan tennis as a whole.

“It was magical. I cannot explain the feeling since I had achieved something that not many athletes have done at that young age,” Okutoyi said. “All in all, it was belief and hard work that propelled me to victory.”

Okutoyi’s rise continued as she made history at the 2022 Australian Open, becoming the first Kenyan girl to win a junior Grand Slam match. Her success on the junior circuit culminated in a remarkable achievement at Wimbledon later that year, where she and her Dutch partner Rose Marie Nijkamp won the girls’ doubles title.

In doing so, Okutoyi became the first Kenyan to win a Wimbledon title, sparking celebrations across her home country and inspiring a new generation of young Africans to dream big.

It’s great for me to be the first Kenyan to win a Grand Slam and to reach a final in a Grand Slam,” Okutoyi said. “I’m now able to inspire most players from Kenya and Africa.”

Okutoyi’s journey has been one of overcoming adversity and defying the odds. Her story has resonated with people around the world, shining a light on the transformative power of sport and the resilience of the human spirit.

As Okutoyi continues to climb the ranks of professional tennis, her sights are set on emulating the success of her idol, Serena Williams, and representing Kenya at the Olympics. With her unwavering determination and the support of her country, the sky is the limit for this remarkable young athlete.

 

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Africa Tech Top News World

Kenya Accused of Secretly Acquiring Surveillance Tech Amidst The #RejectFinanceBill2024 Protest

The Kenyan government, through various agencies, has been accused of secretly acquiring sophisticated surveillance technology to monitor its citizens, particularly on social media. This revelation has raised serious concerns about the erosion of privacy rights and the potential for abuse of power.

According to a report, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) and the National Intelligence Service (NIS) have acquired a social media monitoring software called HIWIRE from the Israeli firm webintPRO, founded by Shai Schiller. The software allows for the capture and analysis of open-source traffic, particularly adapted to analyzing social media. The firm’s website states that HIWIRE can alert clients if any suspicious conversations arise in forums, media, social media, Reddit, or other digital platforms.

NIDS_architecture

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has also obtained Gi2 gadgets from Verint to triangulate the locations of targets. NIS officials have allegedly termed the murder of targets, such as IEBC ICT Manager Chris Msando, as “acceptable” for the greater good.

These surveillance and counterterrorism efforts were reportedly intertwined with influencing the electoral outcome, as former President Uhuru Kenyatta was desperate to rig elections and stay in office.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is said to be ineffective in enforcing oversight due to constant intimidation.

Flysystem_architecture

The revelations come at a time when Kenya is tightening its cybersecurity policy framework, with the National Intelligence Service (NIS) having strategic and operational influence on the country’s cybersecurity program. This is particularly concerning given the NIS’ routine abuse of their powers of surveillance.

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has invested $5.8 million (Sh600 million) in a social media monitoring system for the government, raising questions about the prioritization of such projects while many Kenyans struggle with poverty and lack of basic necessities.

The acquisition of these surveillance technologies has raised concerns about the infringement of Kenyans’ constitutional rights, including the right to privacy (Article 31). The weak regulations meant to protect privacy in Kenya have left citizens vulnerable to technological infringement on their privacy.

As the government continues to frame cybersecurity as a national security issue, the securitization approach has led to the prominent role of intelligence agencies like the NIS in the country’s cybersecurity initiatives. This has limited public scrutiny of these projects and initiatives, making it difficult to hold the government accountable for its actions.

The Data Protection Act, 2019, which came into effect in July 2022, aims to regulate the processing of personal data and protect the privacy of individuals. However, there have been cases where entities have failed to comply with the Act, leading to breaches of regulatory requirements. For instance, Oppo Kenya was fined Kshs5 million for using a data subject’s photo on its social media platforms without consent.

As Kenyans continue to embrace social media and the internet, the government’s actions raise concerns about the future of privacy rights in the country. The lack of transparency and accountability surrounding these surveillance programs, coupled with the weak enforcement of data privacy laws, suggests that Kenyans are slowly losing their right to privacy while remaining largely silent and unaware of the implications.

 

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Africa Counties News Top News

Protesters Targeted Ahead of Decisive Finance Bill Vote

In a concerning development, key organizers of the ongoing protests against Kenya’s controversial Finance Bill have been arrested in a series of pre-dawn raids. Activists Osama Otero, Gabriel Oguda, and Drey Mwangi, who have been at the forefront of the “RejectFinanceBill2024” demonstrations, reported their abductions on social media at around 3 AM on Tuesday, just hours before the bill is set to be debated in its third and final reading in the National Assembly. After the updates, their profiles went silent raising fears of their safety.

This follows the recent kidnapping of activists Japrado and Franje, whose whereabouts remain unknown. The apparent targeting of protest leaders has heightened fears among demonstrators, who are preparing for a massive march planned for Tuesday to pressure lawmakers to reject the unpopular tax measures contained in the Finance Bill. Critics argue the proposed legislation will impose undue financial burdens on citizens already struggling with economic hardships.

Many of the protesters who have been vocal in their opposition to the bill have expressed growing concern over the apparent crackdown on dissent. The case of activist Shadrack Kiprono, whose disappearance has yet to be resolved, has further fueled these worries. With the decisive parliamentary vote looming, the question remains: why are the authorities resorting to such heavy-handed tactics to quell the growing public outcry?

 

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News Tech Top News World

Julian Assange to Be Released After Reaching Plea Deal with U.S. Government

Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has reached a plea agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice that will allow him to be released from prison after serving five years in a British jail.

Under the terms of the deal, Assange will plead guilty to a single charge of conspiring to acquire and disclose classified national defense information. In exchange, prosecutors have recommended a 62-month sentence, which will factor in the time he has already spent in custody in the UK.

The charges against Assange stem from WikiLeaks’ publication of hundreds of thousands of classified U.S. military documents related to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as diplomatic cables, in 2010. The U.S. government alleged that Assange collaborated with former military intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning to obtain and disseminate this sensitive information, jeopardizing the safety of informants and others.

Assange has been detained in Belmarsh Prison in London for the last five years, following a seven-year period of exile at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. He has been contesting extradition to the U.S. for over a decade, with recent legal developments granting him the opportunity for a full hearing on his appeal.

The plea deal marks a sudden resolution to a complex criminal case that has captured international attention. Upon the conclusion of the court proceedings this week, Assange is anticipated to be freed and allowed to return to his native Australia.

The impending guilty plea comes after years of advocacy by press freedom campaigners, legislators, and leaders from across the political spectrum, as well as the United Nations, all of whom have fought for Assange’s release. His freedom is seen as a victory for the public’s right to know and hold the powerful accountable.

 

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Africa News Top News World

Kenyan Police Depart for Haiti Peacekeeping Mission Amid Controversy

In a closed ceremony on Monday, a contingent of 400 Kenyan police officers departed Nairobi for Haiti, where they will lead a multinational force against powerful gangs responsible for a surge in deadly violence this year. The deployment is part of a larger planned contingent of 1,000 Kenyan officers for a United Nations-led mission in the Caribbean nation.

Kenyan_police_Haiti

The decision to deploy Kenyan police has sparked controversy, defying a court ruling in Kenya that declared the mission unconstitutional. Critics have raised concerns about historical allegations of police misconduct. A new lawsuit has been filed seeking to block the deployment, questioning the legitimacy of the agreement signed between Kenya and Haiti.

President William Ruto, who oversaw the sendoff, has maintained that stabilizing Haiti is “a mission for humanity … a mission for solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Haiti.” The United States has pledged $300 million to support the mission, but President Joe Biden has expressed concerns about the implications of American troop presence in Haiti.

Haiti has witnessed over 2,500 individuals killed or injured in the first quarter of 2024, triggered by a surge in violence starting in late February that has uprooted over half a million residents. Gangs currently hold sway over approximately 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince.

The reported deployment comes as Kenya faces protests against proposed tax increases. Despite the legal challenges and controversies, the Kenyan government appears determined to proceed with the mission, with an advance team already sent for special training in the U.S. last year.

Human Rights Watch has raised concerns about the mission and doubts over its funding. Rights groups have accused Kenyan police of using excessive force and carrying out unlawful killings. The mission will need to establish a framework of strict internal and external independent oversight and transparency to address these concerns.

 

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News Top News World

Synagogues and Churches Targeted in Deadly Attacks in Russia’s Dagestan Region

Gunmen carried out a series of coordinated attacks on religious sites and a police post in the Russian region of Dagestan on Sunday, leaving at least 15 people dead, including a priest and several police officers.

The violence occurred in the cities of Makhachkala and Derbent, with reports of shootouts and fires at synagogues and Orthodox churches. According to authorities, six police officers were killed and 12 others were wounded in the attacks.

Russia_attack_map_dagestan
A map showing the city of Derbent in Russia. (Fox News)

In Derbent, a 66-year-old Russian Orthodox priest was among the casualties, and both the synagogue and a church in the city were set ablaze by the assailants. The synagogue in Makhachkala was also reported to have been burned down.

The National Antiterrorism Committee stated that the attacks were acts of terrorism, and the Russian Investigative Committee has launched criminal probes into the incidents. Authorities in Dagestan said that two of the gunmen were killed during the clashes, and a counter-terrorist operation is ongoing to apprehend the remaining perpetrators.

The attacks coincided with Pentecost Sunday, a significant religious holiday in the Russian Orthodox Church, adding to the gravity of the situation. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the violence, but some officials in Dagestan have suggested a possible connection to the intelligence services of Ukraine and NATO, a claim that Ukrainian authorities have not immediately commented on.

http://video.foxnews.com/v/6355567888112

The violence in Dagestan, a predominantly Muslim region bordering Chechnya, is reminiscent of past conflicts in the North Caucasus, where Russian authorities have battled separatists and Islamist militants for years. The recent attacks underscore the ongoing challenges faced by the Russian government in maintaining security and combating terrorism in the volatile region.

 

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Africa Counties News Top News World

Failed Diplomat-Turned-MP, Benjamin Langat Threatens to Sack His Staff Over Finance Bill Whatsapp Text!

Benjamin Langat, the shameful, obese Ainamoi MP, has shown his true colors by threatening to sack one of his staff over a WhatsApp text. This incident highlights the MP’s insane level of ignorance and pride that oozes from his reactions on this incident.

Who is This Obese, Arrogant M-pig?

Benjamin Langat’s political career has been marked by arrogance and disregard for his constituents for quite sometime. It’s nothing new really..

He first got to parliament in 2012 after the death of his late brother, David Kimutai Too, who died while in office. Benja then rode on sympathy votes from the people of Ainamoi and was given a 5 year mandate.

However, by 2017, the voters had grown tired of his antics and rejected him, throwing him out of office. He blindly tried vying for Kericho Governor but due to his unpopularity, that ambition was dead before he could spell his name.

Undeterred, Langat was then awarded a compromise diplomatic posting as Kenya’s High Commissioner to Namibia by the previous Uhuru Kenyatta administration, a move seen as a way to “caress his wounded bum”.  A fact i can guess less than a third of you reading this never knew he was even an ambassador.

Its even rumoured that during this time, Langat, was known to frequent clubs in Kericho on almost every weekend, accompanied by a large ‘entourage‘ of over 30 goons, where he would brazenly displace paying customers just to sit,probably fart and order his Johny Walker Red, without shame.

You would wonder what time he had to attend to his responsibilities far off in windhoek when every weekend he’d be gallivanting in kericho Nightclubs.

The NERVE, IGNORANCE and ARROGANCE


The recent drama began when Kevin UFA, a renowned blogger, wrote about the pain his actions has caused the youth by his yes vote to the Finance Bill 2024. Langat responded by threatening Kevin, stating that if he is “man enough“, he should resign or be fired. This was a clear attempt to intimidate Kevin and silence him.

The conversation escalated to a local WhatsApp group, where Langat continued to flex his “Imaginary power” and spill his ignorance. He claimed that Kevin was part of his staff and that he had crossed a “red line“.

Langat’s actions and disregard of his voters is literally the reason that has led to widespread protests against the Finance Bill. His threats and intimidation tactics are a desperate attempt to silence those who are speaking out against his foul actions.

It is clear that Benja is out of touch with the needs and concerns of his constituents. PERIOD! His actions are a slap in the face to the very people he is supposed to represent.

Benjamin Langat’s arrogance is a constant reminder of the kind of ignorance and arrogance with this crop of rotten political leaders.

MPigs and Piglets.. This movement is  something you can’t shake  and the circle is closing in on you quick and fast!

The writing is on the wall!


Viva! Tomorrow is another day Comrades! 

 

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Features News Top News World

GRAPHIC: Russian Soldier’s Video of Decomposing Bodies Sparks Outrage!

A very disturbing video has surfaced showing a Russian soldier documenting the decomposing bodies of his fellow soldiers who fell in battle. The soldier, who remains anonymous, recorded the footage under enemy fire, highlighting the gruesome conditions in which the bodies were left.

Russian_soldier_corpse

The video shows the bodies of Russian soldiers who were killed in action, with one soldier described as having burned alive in an armored vehicle. The soldier’s face is severely disfigured, with worms having eaten away at his features. The soldier’s helmet and glasses are still intact, but his face is unrecognizable.

The Russian soldier, in a somber tone, reflects on the sacrifice of his comrades, saying, “My head is still on my shoulders and I’m ready to sacrifice myself on this land. But you’re sitting on the couch there, in a big and beautiful Russia, we’re doing everything to bring defeat to the enemy, if you’re honest with yourself, then good for you and stay safe. But these guys are already in heaven. If you meet them one day and they ask, what will you say?”

Russian_soldier_corpse_video

The video has sparked widespread outrage and grief, highlighting the devastating toll of the war in Ukraine. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the need for all parties involved to work towards a peaceful resolution.

The video can be viewed on our Smartie News Telegram Chanel Here due its graphic nature.

Again, BE WARNED we highly advise that viewers exercise caution due to its  EXTREMELY GRAPHIC NATURE!


 

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Features News Top News World

Biden and Trump Prepare for Historic Debate: Different Approaches, High Stakes

The stage is set for a historic presidential debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. The June 27 debate on CNN will be full of firsts, with the potential to reshape the presidential race. Never before in the modern era have two presumptive nominees met on the debate stage so early in the general election season. Never before have two White House contenders faced off at such advanced ages, with widespread questions about their readiness.

Biden’s Overly Intensive Preparations

President Biden has begun an intense period of private preparations at Camp David, the presidential retreat in Maryland. His team is aware that he cannot afford an underwhelming performance when he faces Trump for 90 minutes on live television. Biden’s team is expecting aggressive attacks on his physical and mental strength, his record on the economy and immigration, and even his family.

Biden’s former chief of staff, Ron Klain, is leading the preparations. Klain, who has worked with Democratic candidates in nearly every presidential race over the past three decades, is also the party’s most seasoned debate coach. Bruce Reed, another longtime aide who currently serves as Biden’s deputy chief of staff, is sifting through reams of material and hours of prior Trump appearances to inform the practice sessions. Biden’s personal lawyer, Bob Bauer, is also expected to participate in mock debate sessions.

Trump’s Informal Prep Process

Trump, on the other hand, will stay on the campaign trail before going to his Florida estate next week for two days of private meetings as part of an informal prep process. His allies are pushing him to stay focused on his governing plans but expect him to be tested by pointed questions about his unrelenting focus on election fraud, his role in the erosion of abortion rights, and his unprecedented legal baggage.

Trump has participated in roughly a dozen of these private meetings, which his campaign has dubbed as informal ‘policy discussions.‘ The subjects of these meetings have ranged from sharpening his messaging on the economy, the border, and crime to his views on abortion, the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, and how to best frame his May 30 conviction on 34 counts of business fraud.

Ground Rules for the Debate

The ground rules for the June 27 debate are unusual. The candidates agreed to meet at a CNN studio in Atlanta with no audience. Each candidate’s microphone will be muted, except when it’s his turn to speak. No props or prewritten notes will be allowed onstage. The candidates will be given only a pen, a pad of paper, and a bottle of water. There will be no opening statements. A coin flip determined that Biden would stand at the podium to the viewer’s right, while Trump would deliver the final closing statement.

High Stakes and Expectations

The debate will be full of high stakes and expectations. Biden’s aides have dismissed concerns about his age and mental readiness. They’re fighting against what they allege is deceptive editing of video clips to suggest he’s confused. But while some Democrats project confidence, Biden’s allies also acknowledge that he may have more to lose given his struggle to generate momentum amid signs of weakness within his political coalition.

Trump, on the other hand, has set an extraordinarily low bar by suggesting for months that Biden is contending with serious physical limitations that make it difficult for him to stand for 90 minutes or string together two sentences. “It’s like the mirror test. Put a mirror under Biden’s nose, and if it fogs it up, he wins, right? That’s about what the threshold is for Biden,” Republican strategist and Trump ally David Urban said with a laugh. “Can Biden demonstrate that he’s mentally nimble? That’s the big question.”

The Debate’s Potential Impact

The debate could have a significant impact on the presidential race. It will be a chance for both candidates to showcase their policies and personalities to a national audience. The debate could also set the tone for the rest of the campaign season.

In the end, the outcome of the debate will depend on how well each candidate performs under pressure. Will Biden be able to hold his own against Trump’s aggressive attacks? Will Trump be able to effectively communicate his governing plans and address the legal issues surrounding him? The world will be watching to find out.

 

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Football Sports Top News World

VAR Controversy Overshadows Tense Netherlands-France Euro 2024 Clash

In a highly anticipated Group D matchup at the Euro 2024 tournament, the Netherlands and France played out a tense 0-0 draw that was marred by a controversial Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decision.

The game’s defining moment came in the 69th minute when Xavi Simons thought he had given the Netherlands the lead with a well-taken strike. However, the goal was swiftly ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR review.

The decision left the Dutch players and fans furious, as replays showed Denzel Dumfries, who was in an offside position, did not appear to be interfering with play or obstructing the French goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s line of sight.

“Once again Taylor and Attwell prove that English officials are the worst in Europe,” one frustrated fan wrote on social media, referring to the match officials.

The VAR review took over two-and-a-half minutes, the longest of the tournament so far, further angering supporters who felt the decision-making process lacked clarity and efficiency.

“Ideally, such calls should be promptly assessed to uphold the integrity of the game and validate the on-field officials’ judgment,” ESPN’s analysis noted.

The controversial call overshadowed an otherwise cagey affair, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. France’s star striker Kylian Mbappé was left on the bench after suffering a broken nose in the previous match, and his absence was felt as Antoine Griezmann squandered the best opportunities for the world champions.

The result leaves the Netherlands top of Group D on goal difference, with France second. However, the VAR drama will undoubtedly be the main talking point as the tournament heads into the final round of group stage matches.