Poll Shows Kathy Hochul Vulnerable as Stefanik Gains Ground in Potential New York Matchup

October 9, 2025

project — Gov. Kathy Hochul (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File)

A new statewide survey suggests Democratic governor Kathy Hochul is on shaky ground heading into 2026, with data showing the incumbent is against Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik in a hypothetical matchup that could upend New York politics.

According to a poll conducted by GrayHouse, Hochul leads Stefanik by just five points—48 percent to 43 percent—but once voters learn about both candidates’ records, Stefanik overtakes Hochul, edging ahead 46.4 percent to 45.9 percent. The findings point to a potential collapse in Hochul’s fragile coalition. Pollster Landon Wall described the governor’s standing as a “deeply vulnerable position,” noting her “coalition is historically fragile” and that there is a “significant growing appetite for change.”

The survey also found that Hochul’s endorsement of socialist New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani could cost her crucial support. Nearly 40 percent of voters—and 47 percent of independents—said they would be less likely to vote for a Democrat if Mamdani were elected.

Only 39 percent of respondents approve of Hochul’s performance as governor, while 56 percent disapprove. A strong 59 percent said it’s time for a new governor. Meanwhile, Stefanik enjoys a net positive approval rating statewide, positioning her as a serious challenger.

Stefanik responded to the results sharply, calling Hochul “the Worst Governor in America” and a “deeply embattled and historically unpopular failed Governor who is struggling to even gain support from her own party.”

The poll underscores a growing belief among voters that New York may be ready for a political shake-up.

U.S. Diplomat Hit by CCP Romance Scandal

October 9, 2025

U.S.-Department-of-State-website-on-computer-screen-American-Faith-Media — U.S. Department of State website on computer screen (American Faith Media)

The State Department fired a Foreign Service officer who admitted to having a romantic relationship with a woman connected to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

A Department spokesperson confirmed the removal of Foreign Service Officer Daniel Choi, stating that “after Presidential review and approval, the Secretary of State has terminated a Foreign Service Officer (FSO) who concealed a romantic relationship with a Chinese national with ties to the Chinese Communist Party.”

The development follows an August investigation by the O’Keefe Media Group, which released an undercover video of Choi admitting that he “defied my government for love” and had a relationship with the daughter of a senior CCP leader.

“I was supposed to, whatever, sort of report what I knew about her, but I always thought that was kind of unfair,” he said. “We might date, and then we break up, you know, and then, like, you know, the government still has her information forever, right?”

Choi admitted that the woman’s “dad was either a provincial or a federal minister of education,” noting that “he’s, like, straight up Communist Party.”

Following the video, the State Department said, “The incident is under investigation. The Department has zero tolerance for individuals who jeopardize national security by putting their personal interests ahead of our great nation.”

According to a February action from President Donald Trump, “All officers or employees charged with implementing the foreign policy of the United States must under Article II do so under the direction and authority of the president. Failure to faithfully implement the president’s policy is grounds for professional discipline, including separation.”

Trump Scores Major Win With UN Peacekeeping Cuts in Landmark Reform Deal

October 9, 2025

The Trump administration secured a major diplomatic victory this week as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz reached a deal with U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres to implement sweeping UN peacekeeping cuts and rein in bloated spending funded heavily by American taxpayers.

Under the agreement, the United Nations will reduce its global peacekeeping force by roughly 25 percent and slash its $6.7 billion peacekeeping budget by 15 percent. The United States contributes nearly a quarter of that budget, making it the largest single funder of U.N. operations.

The reform follows the Trump administration’s decision to withhold half of the U.S.’s $3 billion annual contribution until the organization addressed years of financial waste and unfulfilled promises of reform. A U.N. official confirmed that Waltz is “demanding reforms first and upfront at the U.N.” before any additional funds are released.

Critics have long argued that U.N. peacekeeping missions are “ineffective and problematic,” citing failures in conflict zones and repeated scandals involving abuse by peacekeepers. Guterres himself acknowledged that the forces could be “more effective and cheaper,” admitting “the way [the organization does] business needs to change.”

A Western diplomat hailed the move as evidence of Trump’s commitment to reshaping global institutions. “It’s clear that the Trump administration is committed to reforming the United Nations, starting with the most serious cuts to global peacekeeping missions in decades,” the diplomat said.

The UN peacekeeping cuts are part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to demand accountability from international organizations reliant on U.S. funding — and to ensure taxpayer dollars serve American interests first.

CA Gubernatorial Candidate Katie Porter Melts-Down on Camera After Basic Interview Question

October 9, 2025

Democratic California gubernatorial candidate Katie Porter appeared to lose her cool during a recent interview with CBS News when pressed about her strategy for winning over President Donald Trump’s supporters.

Footage released Tuesday showed CBS correspondent Julie Watts asking Porter how she planned to appeal to Trump voters in a general election. The exchange quickly turned tense. “How would I need them in order to win, ma’am?” Porter replied, laughing off the question.

When Watts pointed out that “unless you think you’re going to get 60 percent of the vote,” Porter would still need to court some Trump backers, the former congresswoman appeared visibly frustrated. Porter insisted she had proven her ability to draw cross-party support in past races but objected to the tone of the questioning. “You asked me if I needed them to win. I feel like this is unnecessarily argumentative. What is your question?” she said, holding up her hands.

As Watts noted that every candidate was being asked similar questions, Porter abruptly attempted to ended the interview. “I don’t want to keep doing this. I’m going to call it,” she said, taking off her microphone. When asked if she would continue, Porter shot back, “Nope, not like this I’m not. Not with seven follow-ups to every single question you ask.”

“I don’t want to have an unhappy experience with you,” Porter said. “And I don’t want this all on camera.”

The awkward exchange underscores the challenges Porter faces connecting with independent and conservative voters in a deeply divided California political climate.

Boston Pro-Palestinian Mob Turns Violent, Targets Police in Democrat-Led City

October 9, 2025

Palestine Protest (2) — Palestine Protest (Ian Hutchinson/Unsplash)

A pro-Palestinian protest in downtown Boston turned into a violent riot Tuesday night as agitators assaulted police officers, blocked traffic, and caused widespread disruption. The demonstration, led by campus chapters of Students for Justice in Palestine, quickly escalated into chaos, resulting in multiple arrests and injuries to law enforcement personnel.

Police report that between 200 and 300 individuals participated in the rally, which began peacefully before devolving into mob behavior. Protesters surrounded Boston Police Department vehicles, kicked doors, and shouted profanities. Officers attempting to restore order were met with physical resistance, including one officer being struck in the face. Others had their radios and body cameras torn off or damaged. Protesters lit smoke devices and flares, chanting anti-police slogans including “BPD is KKK” and “F— you, Nazis.”

Authorities arrested 13 individuals on charges ranging from unlawful assembly to obstruction of emergency vehicles and violent resistance. Several city intersections were blocked during the event, slowing response times for emergency services and disrupting public safety operations.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, a Democrat, condemned the violence but emphasized the city’s commitment to free speech. She promised that those responsible would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. However, critics argue that the city’s leadership failed to anticipate the protest’s volatility, allowing activists to turn public demonstration into dangerous street violence.

The riot coincided with the anniversary of Hamas’s October 7, 2023 terror attack on Israel, an event that remains a flashpoint for ideological unrest. Protesters carried signs and banners in support of the Palestinian cause while targeting police and chanting against the United States and Israel.

The unrest highlights growing concerns among conservatives and law enforcement advocates about the rise of politically motivated street violence in Democrat-led cities. The event also underscores the escalating influence of radical student movements, which increasingly blur the line between political protest and unlawful activity.

Minnesota Under Fire: Public Schools Demand Protection for Girls’ Sports as Trump’s Title IX Deadline Nears

October 9, 2025

Trans Protest (1) — Transgender Protest (Karollyne Videira Hubert/Unsplash)

Over 40 Minnesota school board members have publicly urged state leaders to comply with the Trump administration’s directive to safeguard girls’ athletic programs from biological males competing under transgender athlete policies.

The school boards delivered a letter to key state officials—including Education Commissioner Willie Jett, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Minnesota State High School League leadership—warning that failure to act could put federal funding at risk for more than 875,000 students statewide.

In late September, the U.S. Departments of Education and Health and Human Services ruled that Minnesota’s existing policies violate Title IX by allowing males to compete in female sports and access female-designated facilities. The state has been given 10 days to revise those policies or face enforcement actions, including possible DOJ referral.

One flashpoint intensifying the debate was a high school softball tournament in which a transgender athlete pitched in girls’ competition, overwhelming opponents in multiple games. Some athletes and parents argue the situation undermines fair competition in women’s sports.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison responded by defending the state’s inclusive policy, calling federal threats “bullying” and asserting that exclusion would violate the Minnesota Human Rights Act. His legal challenges assert that Trump’s executive order and federal enforcement infringe on constitutional and civil rights protections.

With federal funding and girls’ competitive integrity on the line, Minnesota’s response will set an important precedent.

Shutdown Chaos: Jeffries Explodes on Lawler in Capitol Confrontation

October 9, 2025

Tensions over the federal government shutdown boiled over Wednesday when House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Rep. Mike Lawler erupted into a shouting match outside a press conference. The confrontation stemmed from a bipartisan proposal to extend enhanced Obamacare subsidies for one year—a sticking point that has stalled broader funding negotiations.

Rep. Lawler pressed Jeffries to support the proposal on the spot, saying, “Why don’t you sign on right now?” Jeffries responded by mocking Lawler’s independence, asking if he had permission from his “boss,” in reference to President Trump. The exchange quickly escalated as both lawmakers spoke over each other.

At one point, Jeffries taunted Lawler, saying, “Are you mathematically challenged, bro?” Lawler fired back, citing Democratic numbers: “You’ve got 215 Democrats.” Jeffries accused Lawler of supporting tax policies that favor the wealthy and accused him of embarrassing himself.

The clash highlights deep divisions as the government shutdown enters its second week. Democrats continue to demand Obamacare subsidies be included in any temporary funding agreement, while Republicans call for broader spending cuts and policy reforms. Jeffries has accused the GOP of backing out of negotiations, while Speaker Mike Johnson has said Democrats are refusing to engage seriously on budget concerns.

Lawler, a moderate Republican from New York, has pushed for bipartisan solutions to end the stalemate. Tuesday’s encounter suggests the pressure is mounting on both parties as federal operations remain paralyzed.

The incident reflects broader dysfunction in Congress as the shutdown drags on. With negotiations stalled and tempers flaring, Capitol Hill remains gridlocked—leaving federal employees, military personnel, and taxpayers in limbo.

Hamas Agrees to Trump’s Peace Deal, Hostage Release Set to Begin

October 9, 2025

Hamas has accepted President Trump’s peace proposal, signaling an end to nearly two years of war in Gaza. The agreement includes the full release of all Israeli hostages and the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, marking a major breakthrough in the region’s most violent conflict since 2023.

President Trump announced the deal on Truth Social, stating: “I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first Phase of our Peace Plan. This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line.” He emphasized that this is only the beginning of a broader resolution process.

The agreement requires Hamas to enter a second phase of talks to finalize demilitarization and governance terms. All hostages, including deceased individuals, are to be returned under the initial phase. Trump’s administration confirmed that Israel and Hamas have agreed to a mediated framework, with Egypt and Qatar facilitating logistics.

This deal follows months of intensive diplomacy led by White House envoy Steve Witkoff, with Jared Kushner joining the talks in Egypt last week to lend additional weight to the U.S. effort. Trump’s 20-point plan calls for a ceasefire, hostage repatriation, international oversight in Gaza, and removal of Hamas’s military capabilities.

The October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attack that launched the war resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and led to a prolonged military campaign. Until now, efforts to broker a resolution had failed amid distrust and ongoing violence. With Hamas now publicly agreeing to the deal, focus shifts to implementation and verification.

Trump’s leadership in securing the agreement reestablishes U.S. strength in international negotiations and affirms a commitment to peace through strength.

Zach Bryan Faces Backlash Over Anti-ICE Lyrics, Rejects Political Label

October 9, 2025

ICE reporting bill — Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers (Photo by Bryan Cox/U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement via Getty Images)

Country singer Zach Bryan is facing criticism from the White House and Department of Homeland Security officials after resurfaced lyrics from his unreleased track “Bad News” appeared to portray Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in a negative light. The controversy intensified after DHS Secretary Kristi Noem condemned the lyrics as “disrespectful” to law enforcement and “out of touch with working-class Americans.”

The lyric in question states: “ICE is gonna come bust down your door, kids are all scared and all alone.” Critics argue the line demonizes federal agents tasked with enforcing immigration law and contributes to the growing hostility toward border enforcement.

In response, Bryan released a statement clarifying the context of the song, insisting it is not a political attack. He explained that the song was written months ago and reflects a broader commentary on fear and division. “Everyone using this now as a weapon is only proving how devastatingly divided we all are,” Bryan wrote. He emphasized that the full song “hits on both sides of the aisle” and denied having any allegiance to political extremes.

The White House issued a statement earlier this week suggesting that Bryan’s lyrics promote “a dangerous narrative that undermines public safety.” DHS sources reportedly pressured Bryan’s team to clarify his stance after the teaser clip gained traction online. Bryan responded by defending his right to artistic expression and stated, “I’m on neither of these radical sides.”

Despite the uproar, Bryan reaffirmed his respect for America and its institutions, stating, “I love this country.” He described the past several months as personally difficult, writing, “Been falling off a cliff while trying to grow wings at the same time.”

Bryan’s clash with federal officials comes amid rising tensions over illegal immigration and increasing scrutiny of public figures who speak critically about enforcement agencies.

Billionaire Leftist Fuels Scandal-Plagued Democrat’s Campaign

October 9, 2025

US Dollars Money — U.S. Money (Giorgio Trovato/Unsplash)

Elizabeth “Liz” Simons, daughter of hedge fund billionaire James Simons, is the largest individual donor backing Virginia’s embattled Democrat Attorney General nominee, Jay Jones. Simons has contributed $750,000 to Jones’ campaign, now facing intense backlash after revelations that the candidate made violent remarks about a Republican colleague and his family.

Simons, an heiress to the $31 billion Renaissance Technologies fortune, co-chairs the Heising-Simons Foundation, a progressive philanthropic organization funding left-wing causes including climate change activism, education equity, and criminal justice reform. Her financial activity heavily supports Democratic political operations, with past donations to the Senate Majority PAC, House Majority PAC, and candidates such as Vice President Kamala Harris.

Despite Jones facing national scrutiny for text messages in which he allegedly fantasized about shooting a GOP lawmaker and called the lawmaker’s children “fascists,” Simons has not withdrawn her financial support. Her backing has made her a central figure in the controversy, with political analysts pointing to her influence in enabling and amplifying Jones’ campaign.

The financial contributions were delivered in four separate installments, totaling $750,000—making Simons the largest donor to Jones by a wide margin. Critics argue that her continued support demonstrates the tolerance of radical behavior within high-dollar Democrat donor circles, particularly when aligned with progressive ideologies.

The scandal has put Virginia Democrats on the defensive. Though some, including Senator Tim Kaine, have publicly reaffirmed their endorsements, internal pressure is growing over the party’s silence on Jones’ conduct. Meanwhile, Republicans are highlighting the episode as evidence of extremism within the state’s Democratic leadership.

Simons’ involvement in this race exemplifies how concentrated wealth can shape state-level elections and shield candidates from accountability. Her political spending is not isolated, forming part of a broader effort to fund far-left policies and candidates across the country—regardless of ethical red flags.