Amazon vs. Perplexity AI: The Browser Battle That Could Redefine Online Shopping

November 9, 2025

Artificial intelligence startup Perplexity AI says it has been hit with a “bullying” legal threat from Amazon after Amazon demanded the startup stop allowing users of its browser “Comet” to make purchases on the Amazon platform via automated AI agents. Amazon claims the startup’s tool—designed to help users shop by using their own credentials—violates its rules and could jeopardize security and its ad‑driven revenue model.

According to Perplexity’s blog post, the AI browser feature lets users ask the Comet Assistant to “find items and make purchases” on Amazon. While users reportedly enjoy the experience, Amazon’s legal team sent a cease‑and‑desist letter accusing Perplexity of failing to disclose that its AI agents are performing actions on user accounts. Amazon alleges that the system “does not identify itself,” disguising Comet’s AI activity as human browsing and thereby breaching terms of service and computer‑fraud laws.

Amazon argues that third‑party shopping agents must act transparently and respect the platform’s decisions on whether to interact with them. The retailer contends that Comet’s automation may provide a degraded customer experience, lacking personalized recommendations, optimized delivery, or exposure to sponsored content which drive its ad business. Amazon has previously blocked other AI agents from its site and launched its own AI features, including “Buy For Me” and a shopping assistant named “Rufus,” signaling how seriously it takes its ecosystem.

In contrast, Perplexity claims Amazon is protecting its ad pipeline rather than customer convenience. The startup asserts user credentials are kept locally on the device and not processed by its servers. It frames the legal fight as a choice between user control and platform dominance: “Amazon wants to eliminate user rights so that it can sell more ads right now,” one post stated.

The case highlights a major turning point in how AI agents interact with e‑commerce platforms—and raises broader questions about agency, automation and user empowerment. As the dispute moves toward court, it could impact how digital marketplaces regulate AI tools, set disclosure requirements and protect consumer experience.

Sean Astin Promises SAG-AFTRA Will Defend Actors Against AI Threat

November 9, 2025

Newly elected SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin is sounding the alarm over generative artificial intelligence, calling it a serious threat to actors and vowing that the union will lead the charge in protecting performers’ rights.

Speaking in a recent interview, the Lord of the Rings actor described AI-generated, lifelike “synthetic creations” as an urgent danger that demands immediate attention. “The actual technology itself… that’s an absolute threat,” Astin said. He made clear that his concern isn’t about agents shifting careers into AI management—it’s about AI tools replacing human performances altogether.

Astin emphasized that SAG-AFTRA is on the front lines of the issue. “At SAG-AFTRA, we are in the vanguard. We are the industry leaders at helping shape policy in this space,” he explained, noting the union’s involvement in drafting legislation aimed at protecting creative professionals from AI misuse.

The actor also addressed recent controversy around “Tilly Norwood,” a fictional AI actress whose story circulated earlier this year. Astin dismissed it as a fake narrative used to stir public concern. “It was all fake… and it was all engineered,” he said. Still, he acknowledged that the public’s reaction created an opportunity for the union to highlight real dangers posed by AI.

Astin said the union is now focusing on efforts to ensure that no performer is displaced or digitally replicated without permission. This includes advocating for tools like consent tracking, watermarking, and stronger contract protections. His message to those developing or using synthetic actors: without transparency and fair compensation, there will be pushback.

As AI grows more capable of mimicking human likeness and voice, the entertainment industry is being forced to confront new questions around ethics, compensation, and creative ownership. Astin says SAG-AFTRA will remain firm in defending the dignity and value of real performers in a rapidly changing digital world.

BBC Busted? Network Launches Climate Coverage Review

November 9, 2025

The BBC is preparing to launch an internal review of its reporting on climate change and energy policy as criticism mounts over alleged bias and misinformation. The broadcaster’s Editorial Guidelines and Standards Committee is reportedly conducting a “thematic review” aimed at examining how it handles climate-related coverage across its platforms.

The move follows a series of high-profile controversies, including stealth edits, factual misstatements, and accusations that the BBC has presented skewed narratives on issues like carbon emissions and global warming. One example involved misleading claims about the likelihood of extreme heat caused by human-induced climate change, while another saw the broadcaster quietly remove a documentary criticized for unfairly portraying UK farming practices.

These incidents have led to growing calls for greater accountability and objectivity, particularly as the BBC continues to receive mandatory public funding. Critics argue that the broadcaster has strayed from its commitment to impartial journalism and has become increasingly aligned with one-sided climate alarmism.

Political figures and public advocacy groups have voiced skepticism about the review’s credibility. Some say a truly independent investigation is needed to ensure the BBC does not merely paper over its past failures. Others argue the review is a step in the right direction, especially as climate policy becomes more contested and the economic consequences of green mandates more apparent.

The review also comes amid broader challenges to the BBC’s reputation. It has recently faced backlash over allegedly biased coverage of global conflicts, misleading edits related to U.S. politics, and its handling of cultural and social issues. Former government officials have openly criticized the broadcaster’s leadership and demanded resignations if it fails to address persistent complaints.

As trust in legacy media continues to erode, the BBC’s attempt to salvage its credibility through a climate content review may set the tone for how it handles sensitive political and scientific debates in the future.

Billy Bob Thornton Blasts Awards Shows on Joe Rogan

November 9, 2025

Billy Bob Thornton isn’t here for celebrity virtue signaling at awards shows. In a candid conversation on The Joe Rogan Experience, the 70-year-old actor made it clear he has no patience for political grandstanding during Hollywood’s biggest nights.

“It’s like Ricky Gervais said… come up here, accept your little award, and f*** off,” Thornton bluntly stated, referencing the British comedian’s iconic takedown of self-important celebrities at the 2020 Golden Globes.

Thornton, who describes himself as a “radical moderate,” questioned why anyone would take political cues from entertainers. “Unless you have really studied stuff and know about a subject fully, who the hell would want to listen to an actor or musician talk about politics?” he asked. “If we are, what if they lead you down the wrong road?”

The Landman star took aim at both major political parties, calling for a “common sense party” instead of the current polarized landscape. But his real disdain came out when discussing the performative activism often seen at Hollywood events.

“I couldn’t care less about awards,” he said. “I donate to a lot of charities, mainly children’s stuff, but nobody knows it. I don’t go to the awards show and talk about it when I’m getting my award.”

He also mocked celebrities who hijack their acceptance speeches to push personal causes. “Don’t go up there and talk about saving the badgers in Wisconsin,” he joked. “If you have a billion dollars, and you want to save the badgers, f***ing save them.”

Thornton’s message was clear: Hollywood needs less preaching and more humility.

Jacob Frey Somali Speech Sparks Outrage, ‘This Is America!’

November 9, 2025

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey is facing widespread backlash after delivering part of his recent reelection victory speech in Somali, a move critics called pandering and “humiliating.”

Footage from the event shows Frey addressing a jubilant crowd, thanking voters and declaring Minneapolis “a place where you are proud to call home, no matter where you are from.” While he did not translate the Somali remarks during the speech, he appeared to be extending gratitude to the city’s large Somali-American community.

Islamized America 🚨 Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey Goes Full Mogadishu

Here, the Democrat is Mayor Jacob Frey, on stage speaking Somali, laughing like a fool at America as he celebrates the 65th Anniversary of Somalia’s independence…

Not America’s independence. Not Minnesota’s… pic.twitter.com/ErBqoQyLTN
— Amy Mek (@AmyMek) July 3, 2025

However, many on social media were not impressed. “How embarrassing. This is America,” one user wrote. Another added, “This dude faked cried at Floyd’s funeral, got booed out of his own town, threw his cops under the bus, & is now speaking Somali.” Others called the speech “pathetic” and “sad,” especially after Frey was seen sporting a shirt that read “I Love Somalia” during the event.

Conservative commentator Gerry Callahan joined the chorus of critics, blasting the moment as “humiliating.” “This is an American politician, raised in America, educated in America, ostensibly representing Americans, prostrating himself in front of a bunch of foreigners. Could be the most humiliating thing I’ve ever seen,” Callahan said.

Despite the backlash, Frey won reelection to a third term amid deep infighting within Minnesota’s Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party. His campaign was backed by Gov. Tim Walz and Sen. Amy Klobuchar. Frey’s victory comes on the heels of a messy endorsement battle involving State Sen. Omar Fateh, a Somali American democrat whose DFL endorsement was revoked after convention chaos earlier this year.

Frey has not publicly addressed the criticism over his Somali-language remarks.

Leidos CEO Unveils ‘Airport of the Future’ With TSA & DHS

November 9, 2025

Leidos CEO Tom Bell revealed during a policy event in Washington, D.C., that his company is working with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to build a next‑generation airport screening system. The prototype promises remote‑operated checkpoints, automated baggage screening, and fewer human bottlenecks—designed to replace traditional long security lines.

“You go to any airport globally, and it makes Dulles look like not the airport we would all be so proud of,” Bell told attendees at the November 7 event. He said the system is being prototyped now and will align with major upcoming global events in 2026, such as the U.S. Semiquincentennial, the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics. Bell referred to the project as part of America’s effort to “be seen as a modern, progressive society that is embracing technology and… everything that America stands for.”

Bell highlighted that the system would enable airports to “automate that process, getting the humans up and out, thinking about the whole situation as opposed to an individual bag.” He said the screening facilities will be “world‑class” and capable of better handling the flow of international travelers.

He also praised Kristi Noem, the DHS Secretary, calling her “another great cabinet member of the Trump Administration,” and said she is committed to fostering an environment “great for the international traveler.”

Earlier in the day, Sean Duffy, the Secretary of Transportation, discussed the department’s request for $31.5 billion to complete modernization of the U.S. air‑traffic control system (ATC), with $12.5 billion already directed toward telecom and surveillance hardware. Duffy said President Donald Trump fully supports the effort and called the overhaul a bipartisan priority.

Senate in Limbo as Leader Thune Prepares for Long Haul Until Shutdown Ends

November 9, 2025

The U.S. Senate remains locked in a weekend session with no immediate end to the federal government shutdown, as Senate Majority Leader John Thune signals lawmakers are settling in for a prolonged confrontation. Thune insists the government must be reopened before any major reforms—particularly those tied to health‑care subsidies—are negotiated, leaving Democrats stalled.

Thune and his Republican colleagues are crafting a package of three spending bills intended to resume funding for key agencies and extend operations through late January or even into next fiscal year. The text had not been finalized, and no vote was held Saturday, underscoring the depth of the impasse. Meanwhile, Senate Democrats led by Chuck Schumer are demanding a one‑year extension of premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) before they’ll support reopening the government. Republicans call the move a “non‑starter.”

The shutdown, now entering its 39th day, is already the longest on record. Thune’s strategy reflects a long‑term mindset: he says the Senate will remain in town and the fight will continue until the funding gridlock is broken. At the same time, Democratic resistance remains strong. One senior GOP negotiator said the coalition behind the Democrats “wheels came off” after a closed‑door caucus meeting.

The longer the shutdown drags on, the greater the pressure on both parties, especially Republicans who face mounting public frustration over unpaid federal workers and disrupted services. But Thune appears ready for the showdown. “We just need to get the text out there,” he told reporters. “We’ve got to have votes to actually pass it.”

Massive DEA Raid Nails Sinaloa Cartel Traffickers in Washington State

November 9, 2025

Federal and local law enforcement struck a major blow against cartel-linked trafficking in the Pacific Northwest, arresting a Mexican national tied to the Sinaloa Cartel and seizing massive amounts of drugs and firearms.

On October 28, in a sweeping multi-agency operation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Seattle Police—with tactical support from Border Patrol’s elite BORTAC unit—authorities executed search and arrest warrants across twelve locations. The year-long investigation targeted three interrelated drug and gun trafficking conspiracies.

Agents seized over 100,000 fentanyl pills, 25 kilograms of fentanyl powder, and 34 firearms. A stash house in Centralia, Washington, held the bulk of the drugs and more than two dozen weapons. Authorities arrested ten individuals, including one suspect directly connected to the Sinaloa Cartel.

U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington Charles Neil Floyd said, “These defendants were trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin on the streets of western Washington. These drugs take a heavy toll on our community.”

He also warned of the broader danger, noting, “Worse yet, this group trafficked in dozens of firearms—some of them high-powered assault-style weapons. Yesterday alone, law enforcement seized 34 firearms.”

Border Patrol Chief Michael W. Banks highlighted the cartel connection in a post, stating that one of the suspects is a Mexican national affiliated with the Sinaloa Cartel. All arrested individuals are now facing federal charges for conspiracy to distribute narcotics and firearms.

The October operation follows a similar DEA action in August targeting cartel drug shipments through Washington using semi-trucks.

This raid underscores the growing cartel footprint in U.S. cities and the increasing intersection of deadly drugs like fentanyl with heavily armed trafficking networks. Officials say disrupting these operations is essential but caution that cartels continue to adapt and embed themselves deeper into communities.

Gunman Fires on Federal Agents During Chicago Immigration Raid—Manhunt Underway

November 9, 2025

columbus — Chicago (Pedro Lastra/Unsplash)

A manhunt is underway in Chicago after a gunman allegedly opened fire on federal immigration agents during an enforcement operation Saturday morning. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the suspect, who fled the scene in a black Jeep, targeted Border Patrol agents in the city’s Little Village neighborhood. No agents were injured in the incident, but authorities say the threat level remains high as the suspect remains at large.

The agents were reportedly involved in Operation Midway Blitz, a federal crackdown on illegal immigration and criminal activity across Chicago. The shooting occurred near 26th Street and South Kedzie Avenue, a densely populated area with a high concentration of Mexican-American residents. Federal officials confirmed that, following the shooting, local protesters confronted agents, throwing bricks and even a paint can at federal vehicles. Officers deployed a flash-bang device to disperse the crowd.

Chicago Police responded and confirmed shots had been fired at federal personnel. The investigation remains active, and law enforcement agencies are coordinating to identify and apprehend the suspect. DHS has not yet released surveillance images or further details about the suspect’s identity.

Since launching in September, Operation Midway Blitz has led to over 3,000 arrests in the Chicago area. Federal officials describe the operation as necessary to enforce immigration law and remove criminal offenders. However, tensions have grown in neighborhoods where residents and activists claim enforcement methods have become overly aggressive and disruptive to local communities.

This latest incident raises significant concerns about the safety of federal personnel operating in cities resistant to immigration enforcement and highlights the growing conflict between federal mandates and local opposition.

Outrage Erupts After Minneapolis Mayor Delivers Victory Speech in Somali

November 9, 2025

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey delivered part of his reelection victory speech in Somali, triggering widespread backlash and reigniting debate over the use of foreign languages in official public addresses. Critics labeled the move divisive and politically calculated, accusing the far-left Democrat of prioritizing identity politics over unity and accessibility.

Frey, who won reelection in a city with a large Somali-American population, addressed the crowd in both English and Somali. He thanked supporters in Somali and referenced Somali cities including Mogadishu and Hargeisa. His remarks were met with cheers from the audience but prompted immediate pushback online. Opponents argued that official public communications should be made in English, especially during moments of civic importance.

Conservative commentators led the criticism. Daily Wire host Matt Walsh said politicians should be legally required to speak English when addressing the public in an official capacity. Others described the speech as “pandering” and “humiliating,” questioning whether Frey’s remarks were aimed more at solidifying a voting bloc than unifying the city. Paul Szypula, another conservative voice, echoed the sentiment, saying the moment “embarrassed the office.”

While some defended the mayor’s decision as a gesture of inclusivity toward an immigrant community, others said it alienated non-Somali residents and undermined the principle of a common civic language. In a city already marked by deep political divides, the incident added another flashpoint.

The controversy raises broader questions about language, identity, and the role of elected officials in representing all constituents. As cities across the country grow more diverse, leaders are increasingly challenged to navigate the line between cultural outreach and public unity.