confirms

Sept. 19 (UPI) — The U.S. Senate confirmed 48 appointees of President Donald Trump, almost entirely made up of ambassador and sub-cabinet positions.

The lone Senate vote unfolded 51-47 mostly along party lines, after a rule change earlier in the month changed the confirmation process.

Earlier this month, Republican lawmakers passed changes allowing nominees to be confirmed through the Senate in a one group rather than individually.

The term is referred to as “en bloc” and only applies to lower roles like ambassadors, not judges or cabinet positions.

Former Trump 2020 presidential campaign advisor Kimberly Guilfoyle, and Callista Gingrich, the wife of former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, were among the most notable nominees confirmed.

Guilfoyle is the U.S. ambassador to Greece, while Gingrich was confirmed as the American ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

Senate Democrats had pushed back against the group confirmation vote. Their Republican colleagues continually accused them of holding up or obstructing the process, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., calling the lead-up “a broken process” and “an embarrassment.”

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., referred to the result as “a sad, regrettable day for the Senate.”

The group confirmation comes after Senate Republicans earlier this week confirmed White House economic adviser Stephen Miran to join the Federal Reserve Board.

Mrian’s confirmation comes amid vocal concerns about his independence as he will serve in both capacities.

MARK Labbett has hinted that he could quit The Chase after revealing he’s open to new job offers.

The star has become one of the most popular faces from the ITV quiz show and has even starred on both the American and Australian versions.

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But The Beast has now cast doubt on if he will remain with the show by confirming he would quit the “part-time” gig for something more permanent.

The quizzer and TV personality made the confession as he attended the National Television Awards.

Mark said: “I take great pride in being, as I modestly put it, the best Chaser in the world…

“I love my job.”

But he then quickly added to the Daily Express: “At the same time – it’s a part-time gig.

“I won’t deny it if I’m lucky enough to get a good offer somewhere else for a full-time gig.

“But until that time, I’ll keep working.”

He further hinted that he would be open to taking on more opportunities on international versions of the show.

Mark added: “I love doing The Chase in Australia and America – and who knows – maybe New Zealand, maybe.

“They keep sending me, as I’m good at my job.”

Mark recently spread his wings away from The Chase after signing up to find love on E4 reality show, Celebs Go Dating.

However, his mission was unsuccessful as Mark left the programme single.

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Love Island star Yasmin Pettet shut down the rumours claiming she cheated on Jamie Rhodes at the National Television Awards and revealed the two had split up before the event

Love Island’s Yasmin Pettet slammed the “laughable” rumours she cheated on Jamie Rhodes with The Traitors star Freddie Fraser as she confirmed their split. After the National Television Awards last week, reports claimed Jamie supposedly told friends Yasmin ‘f***ed off’ by the end of the night.

It was also reported Yasmin had been seen holding hands with The Traitors star Freddie at the same event. And now, Yasmin took to social media to set the record straight and revealed she and Jamie went their separate ways before the NTAs but didn’t “formally announce it yet”.

“We’re still really good friends, and I’ll always have so much love and care for him for making my Love Island experience what it was,” she explained.

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“I find it laughable that everyone thinks I cheated on Jamie with Freddie from Traitors, which is not true, and anyone who knows me knows my type is late 20s, 30s plus. @__jamierhodes___ is literally the most amazing man ever, and I’m forever grateful for the memories we made and time we spent together.”

Jamie also took to his Instagram page to reveal what actually went down last night as he defended Yasmin.

He said: “There has been a lot of speculation over the past few days about what happened at the NTA’s covered by a lot of different news outlets that really don’t seem to have a straight story. A lot of the stories coming out don’t make any sense as the sources have heard short snippets of conversations that they weren’t apart of, and are subsequently playing a guessing game about the context and facts of each scenario.

“I wasn’t desperately trying to find Yas after the NTA’S I was trying to hitch a ride back to my hotel with Cach and Toni, and when asked where Yas was and I said she f***ed off. This is what I say every time I’m with company and they leave, it’s strong set in my vocabulary.

“It was also said that I was fuming at the a party the following day after the NTA’s when it was the complete opposite actually, it was a great night!”

He continued: “One part that the press have gotten correct is that Yas and I have decided to move away from getting to know each other romantically to just being friends. However unlike the news has said, it was in a very amicable manner and before the NTA’S.

“Yasmin did not cheat on me nor was we in a relationship, we both have big love for one another and want the best for each of us. I hope this clears up any press speculation and puts any rumours to bed. And thank you once again to everyone who supported me and Yasmin inside and outside the villa.”

The apparent split comes weeks after Yasmin explained the pair were yet to be intimate outside the villa. She admitted she had been grieving the loss of her pet cat, Miaow Miaow.

And she praised Jamie for providing her with emotional support during the tough times. She also said the couple weren’t in a rush to progress with the romance.

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All Creatures Great and Small will return for a sixth series later this year, and ahead of the new instalment, 5 has released a first-look trailer

The wait is almost over for fans of All Creatures Great and Small, as the official release date for the sixth series has finally been announced.

In anticipation of its eagerly awaited return later this month, Channel 5 has unveiled a trailer teasing the sixth chapter of the critically acclaimed series.

Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales during the mid-20th century, All Creatures Great and Small, based on the cherished books by James Herriot, centres on the lives of vets and their families.

The new series will kick off on Channel 5 on Thursday, 25th September, promising to deliver more “heartwarming human and animal tales” to viewers.

The official synopsis reveals: “But, this time, we find our beloved Skeldale gang in a somewhat different situation as we join them in 1945, just as the war in Europe is coming to a close.”, reports the Manchester Evening News.

“We arrive back in Darrowby to veterinary advancements, expanded families, and new faces as they all look ahead to a brighter and more peaceful future.

“This series will see Herriot’s wonderful characters navigating the opportunities that a new world brings, a host of animals great and small, and of course, each other.”

Nicholas Ralph will be returning to his role as vet James Herriot, with Samuel West reprising his part as Siegfried Farnon, James’ business partner.

Deadwater Fell star Anna Madeley will once again portray Mrs Hall, and Rachel Shenton will reprise her role as Helen Herriot, while Callum Woodhouse will continue to play Tristan Farnon.

Mrs Pumphrey will be portrayed by Patricia Hodge once more, whilst Tony Pitts makes his comeback as Richard Alderson alongside Imogen Clawson reprising her role as Jenny.

Fresh faces joining the All Creatures Great and Small lineup for the sixth series feature Hollyoaks favourite Lucy-Jo Hudson, Lord of the Rings’ Gaia Wise, Titanic legend Jonathan Hyde, Waterloo Road performer Martin Brown and The Feud’s Chris Gascoyne.

Viewers expressed their delight following the trailer’s debut, with one fan declaring: “Can’t wait! This is my FAVOURITE show,” whilst another enthused: “Can’t wait for the new season.

“Really hoping the show gets renewed for two more seasons like before. We need a show like this in today’s world. Heartfelt, fun, emotional, nice, charming and wonderful. Thank You!!”

All Creatures Great and Small series six will air from Thursday, 25 September at 9pm on 5. All other series are available to stream on 5.

DES MOINES, Iowa — U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst said Tuesday that she will not seek reelection next year, confirming in a video post on social media that she will retire after months of speculation about her plans.

Ernst’s departure opens up a Senate seat in the state known for its long-serving incumbents. Ernst was first elected in 2014 to the open seat previously held by Tom Harkin, a Democrat who served for 30 years. Republican Chuck Grassley, Iowa’s senior U.S. senator, was first elected to the Senate in 1980.

Her announcement Tuesday followed reports last week that she was expected to announce her retirement in September.

It is the second unexpected retirement for Senate Republicans as they work to maintain their majority in the chamber, with Ernst joining Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who turned down a reelection bid after clashing with President Trump.

It also could have ripple effects down the ballot if third-term Rep. Ashley Hinson from the Cedar Rapids area in eastern Iowa jumps into the race, as is widely expected. Hinson’s decision could also complicate House Republicans’ efforts to keep control as Democrats look for opportunities to flip seats in once-competitive Iowa, where two of Iowa’s four congressional districts have been among the country’s most competitive in recent elections.

Several Democrats are seeking the party’s nomination for the seat, including state Sen. Zach Wahls; state Rep. Josh Turek; Jackie Norris, chair of the Des Moines School Board; and Nathan Sage, a former chamber of commerce president.

Two Republicans — former state Sen. Jim Carlin and veteran Joshua Smith — had already entered the primary to challenge Ernst.

Ernst, Iowa’s first woman elected to Congress, is an Iraq War combat veteran and retired from the Army National Guard as a lieutenant colonel. She served for several years in Senate GOP leadership and was considered a vice presidential contender for Trump’s first White House run.

But Ernst has faced pressure from all sides in the last year. She took heat after signaling a hesitance to support one of Trump’s Cabinet picks. She’s also been one of the faces of Democrats’ campaign against the sprawling tax and spending package after she made a retort about Medicaid cuts at a town hall.

Fingerhut writes for the Associated Press.

Aug. 31 (UPI) — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Sunday confirmed the Trump administration plans to increase immigration resources in Chicago amid a planned federal crackdown on crime in the city.

In an appearance on CBS News’ Face the Nation, Noem said Immigration and Customs Enforcement would be expanding operations in Chicago to “go after the worst of the worst in the country, like President [Donald] Trump has told us to do.”

She said the agency would be “focusing on those that are perpetuating murder and rape and trafficking of drugs and humans across our country, knowing that every single citizen deserves to be safe.”

Noem’s comments come after weeks of Trump leveraging federal resources — namely the National Guard — to target crime in cities he deems unsafe. He deployed troops to Washington, D.C., in August to crack down on crime, which he described as “out of control.”

Speaking Aug. 11 about the deployment, Trump called out other cities with high crime, including Chicago, Baltimore, Oakland, Calif., and New York City. He followed that up Saturday with a Truth Social post calling Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker “weak and pathetic,” saying he should straighten out crime or “we’re coming.”

In response to Trump’s threats to send National Guard troops to Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson on Saturday signed an executive order seeking to avoid militarization in the city. The order demands that Trump end “his threats to deploy the National Guard” to Chicago.

“I do not take this executive action lightly,” Johnson said during a signing ceremony. “I would’ve preferred to work more collaboratively to pass legislation … but unfortunately, we do not have the luxury of time. We have received credible reports that we have days, not weeks, before our city sees some kind of militarized activity by the federal government.”

In an appearance on Face the Nation, Pritzker said no one in the Trump administration has reach out to him or any other officials in Chicago about a possible deployment of National Guard troops to the city, which he described as “an invasion.” He said federal agencies should coordinate with local law enforcement.

“But they don’t want to do that either, and I must say, it’s disruptive, it’s dangerous,” Pritzker said. “It tends to inflame passions on the ground when they don’t let us know what their plans are, and when we can’t coordinate with them.”

He said if Trump does send National Guard troops to Chicago, he’ll take it to the courts.

“Any kind of troops on the streets of an American city don’t belong unless there is an insurrection, unless there is truly an emergency,” he said. “There is not.”

WASHINGTON — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Sunday that immigration operations will soon be expanded in Chicago, confirming plans for a stepped-up presence of federal agents in the nation’s third-largest city as President Trump continues to lash out at Illinois’ Democratic leadership.

Noem’s comments came a day after Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson struck back against what he called the “out-of-control” plan to surge federal officers into the city. The Chicago Police Department will be barred from helping federal authorities with civil immigration enforcement or any related patrols, traffic stops and checkpoints during the surge, according to an executive order Johnson signed Saturday.

The Homeland Security Department last week requested limited logistical support from officials at the Naval Station Great Lakes to support the agency’s anticipated operations. The military installation is about 35 miles north of Chicago.

“We’ve already had ongoing operations with ICE in Chicago … but we do intend to add more resources to those operations,” Noem said during a Sunday appearance CBS News’ ”Face the Nation.”

Noem declined to provide further details about the planned surge of federal officers. It comes after the Trump administration deployed National Guard troops to Washington, saying they were needed to target crime, immigration and homelessness, and two months after it sent troops to Los Angeles.

Trump lashed out against Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker in a social media posting Saturday, warning him that he must straighten out Chicago’s crime problems quickly “or we’re coming.” The Republican president has also been critical of Johnson.

Johnson and Pritzker, both Democrats, have denounced the expected federal mobilization, noting that crime has fallen in Chicago. They are planning to sue if Trump moves forward with the plan.

In his order signed Saturday, Johnson directed all city departments to guard the constitutional rights of Chicago residents “amidst the possibility of imminent militarized immigration or National Guard deployment by the federal government.”

Asked during a news conference about federal agents who are presumably “taking orders,” Johnson replied: “Yeah, and I don’t take orders from the federal government.”

Johnson also blocked Chicago police from wearing face coverings to hide their identities, as most federal immigration officers have done since Trump launched his crackdown.

The federal surge into Chicago could start as early as Friday and last about 30 days, according to two U.S. officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss plans that had not been made public.

Pritzker, in an interview aired Sunday on “Face the Nation,” said that Trump’s expected plans to mobilize federal forces in the city may be part of a plan to “stop the elections in 2026 or, frankly, take control of those elections.”

Noem said it was a Trump “prerogative” whether to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago as he did in Los Angeles in June in the midst of protests there against immigration raids.

“I do know that L.A. wouldn’t be standing today if President Trump hadn’t taken action,” Noem said. “That city would have burned if left to devices of the mayor and governor of that state.”

Unlike the recent federal takeover of policing in Washington, the Chicago operation is not expected to rely on the National Guard or military and is focused exclusively on immigration, rather than being cast as part of a broad campaign against crime, Trump administration officials have said.

Chicago is home to a large immigrant population, and both the city and the state of Illinois have some of the country’s strongest rules against cooperating with federal immigration enforcement efforts. That has often put the city and state at odds with the Trump administration’s mass deportation agenda.

Johnson’s order builds on the city’s longtime stance, that neither Chicago nor Illinois officials have sought or been consulted on the federal presence and they stand against Trump’s mobilization plan.

During his news conference Saturday, Johnson accused the president of “behaving outside the bounds of the Constitution” and seeking a federal presence in Democratic cities as retribution against his political rivals.

“He is reckless and out of control,” Johnson said. “He’s the biggest threat to our democracy that we’ve experienced in the history of our country.”

In response, the White House contended that the potential flood of federal agents was about “cracking down on crime.”

“If these Democrats focused on fixing crime in their own cities instead of doing publicity stunts to criticize the President, their communities would be much safer,” White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in an email Saturday.

Critics have noted that Trump, while espousing a tough-on-crime push, is the only felon ever to occupy the White House.

Madhani and Beck write for the Associated Press and reported from Washington and Chicago, respectively.

The White House has reiterated President Donald Trump’s remarks that US troops will not be deployed to Ukraine as part of any security guarantees under a peace deal with Russia. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the US may instead provide coordination and air support.

THE Government has confirmed when it’s planning to bring in controversial new powers aimed at cracking down on benefits fraudsters.

Banks will be drafted in to help identify benefits cheats and convicted fraudsters could be stripped of their driving licences under the new Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) plans.

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New Government documents have revealed it’s planning to bring the measures under the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill in April 2026.

The DWP has said it will be the “biggest fraud crackdown in a generation”.

It’s estimated the new powers could save taxpayers £1.5billion over five years.

Last year, an estimated £7.4billion was lost to benefits fraud – around 2.8% of total welfare spending.

A further £1.6bn (0.6%) was overpaid due to unintentional errors by claimants, while £0.8bn (0.3%) was overpaid because of errors by the DWP.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has been trying to boost the public purse after it was revealed she needs to plug a £50billion hole in public finances.

The new measures mean banks will help to identify customers who might have breached benefit eligibility rules, such as exceeding the £16,000 savings limit for Universal Credit.

They will share limited data with the DWP but can’t provide transaction details, so officials won’t be able to see how benefit claimants spend their money.

The DWP also won’t gain direct access to claimants’ bank accounts, but it will receive cases flagged for investigation.

Financial institutions face penalties if they overshare information beyond what’s permitted.

Airlines and other third-party organisations might also have to provide information to help detect benefit claims made from abroad that could violate eligibility rules.

According to the Government documents, any information “will not be shared on the presumption or suspicion that anyone is guilty of any offence”.

However officials will gain authority to recover money directly from fraudsters’ bank accounts.

As well as this, persistent benefit fraudsters who fail to repay their debts could face driving bans lasting up to two years.

DWP minister Liz Kendall has pledged to clamp down on benefit cheats, saying back in March: “The social security system that we inherited from the Conservatives is failing the very people that it is supposed to help and is holding our country back.

“The facts speak for themselves. One in 10 people of working age are now claiming a sickness or disability benefit. Almost one million young people are not in education, employment or training – one in eight of all our young people.”

The DWP has said it will have strong safeguards in place, including new inspection and reporting mechanisms.

DWP staff will also receive comprehensive training before using the new powers.

However campaign groups have warned the powers could invade claimants’ rights to financial privacy and it could also lead to legitimate claimants being wrongly investigated.

In a letter to Kendall last year, the directors of Big Brother Watch and Age UK described the plans as “mass financial surveillance powers” which they said would “represent a severe and disproportionate intrusion into the nation’s privacy”.

Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign 18-year-old defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma, Reds manager Arne Slot has revealed.

The centre-half has been a key target for Slot and is now set to move to Anfield in a deal worth in the region of £26m.

The Italy Under-19s international began his career at Padova and had a short spell at Sampdoria before joining Parma last summer.

He enjoyed a breakthrough Serie A campaign last season, making 17 appearances as Parma finished 16th, five points above the relegation zone.

“The clubs have agreed a deal but he has not signed for us yet. The moment he does, I can go into more detail,” Slot said.

The Reds boss refused to comment when asked about a potential move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.

“He’s not our player. Unfortunately, he was the captain of the team who we lost to last Sunday. If you want to have any talks about him you should go to Palace and [manager Oliver] Glasner and ask him about it,” Slot said.

FA Cup winners Palace are believed to want £40m for their captain, who only has 12 months left on his contract, but Liverpool want to pay less than that.

Eagles chairman Steve Parish said earlier this week Guehi might be sold to avoid him moving on a free transfer next summer.

If the clubs do agree a deal, the level of playing time he would be afforded at Liverpool will be a crucial consideration for Guehi in a World Cup year.

The Reds have already spent about £270m this summer, though they have recouped about £170m through player sales.

They have also had a £110m bid for Alexander Isak rejected by Newcastle, though sources have told BBC Sport the Swede remains determined to move to the Premier League champions.

Signing Leoni, Guehi and Isak would take Liverpool’s summer spending past £400m.

Defending champions Liverpool begin their 2025-26 Premier League campaign in Friday’s curtain-raiser against Bournemouth at Anfield.

Aug. 3 (UPI) — The Senate has confirmed former Fox News TV host and Donald Trump supporter Jeanine Pirro as the top U.S. federal prosecutor.

Pirro, a former New York state district attorney and county judge, was confirmed along party lines 50-45 Saturday. She was among a host of staunch Trump backers who claimed the 2020 presidential election was stolen from Trump due to fraudulent voting. There was no evidence to support that claim.

Pirro said in a statement that she was “blessed” to have been confirmed by lawmakers and said in a statement to “get ready for a real crime fighter.”

Pirro used her platform as a host of the Fox New “Justice with Jeanine” host to purvey a baseless conspiracy theory that the election was stolen from Trump, and later became co-host of the Fox show “The Five.”

In 2021, Pirro was among five defendants named in a defamation lawsuit by Dominion Voting Systems, accusing the network of knowingly promoting false claims about the company’s voting machines used to tabulate votes in the election.

Fox eventually settled the lawsuit with Dominion for $785 million and acknowledged that claims about a fraudulent election were false.

President Donald Trump nominated Pirro in May, calling her a “powerful crusader for victims of crime,” and, in a social media post, a person who “excelled in all ways.”

“Jeanine is incredibly well qualified for this position,” Trump wrote in the post.

At the end of Trump’s first term, he pardoned Pirro’s husband, Albert Pirro, Jr., who had been convicted in 2000 on charges of fraud and tax evasion.

Criticism of the nomination was swift and exacting. Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., saying “blind obedience to Donald Trump is nearly unrivaled among his ardent supporters.”

“For an important prosecutorial position like this one, the country has a right to demand a serious and principled public servant,” Schiff added. “Jeanine Pirro is not it.”

The Senate adjourned for a monthlong recess Saturday having failed to advance dozens of other Trump nominees.

Trump reacted on social media, telling Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to “Go to Hell!”

Former Fox News host Pirro secures Senate confirmation with 50-45 vote, becoming US attorney general for the nation’s capital.

The United States Senate has confirmed former Fox News television personality Jeanine Pirro as the top federal prosecutor in the nation’s capital, Washington, DC, filling the post after President Donald Trump withdrew his controversial first pick, conservative activist Edward Martin Jr.

Pirro, a former county prosecutor and elected judge, was confirmed on Saturday, with a vote of 50-45. Before becoming the acting US attorney for the District of Columbia in May, she co-hosted the Fox News show The Five on weekday evenings, where she frequently interviewed Trump.

Trump yanked Martin’s nomination after a key Republican senator said he could not support him due to Martin’s outspoken support for rioters who stormed the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. Martin now serves as the Justice Department’s pardon attorney.

Other hires from cable news include Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who co-hosted Fox & Friends Weekend, and Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, a former reality TV show competitor and Fox Business co-host.

Pirro briefly entered politics in ill-fated attempts to run for the US Senate and for the New York attorney general, losing the latter race to Democrat Andrew Cuomo.

She began earning wider public exposure by hosting a weekday television show, Judge Jeanine Pirro, from 2008 to 2011. In 2011, she joined Fox News Channel to host Justice with Judge Jeanine, which ran for 11 years, and today, she is a co-host of the network’s show, The Five.

Pirro has also authored several books, including Liars, Leakers, and Liberals: The Case Against the Anti-Trump Conspiracy, which was published in 2018. The Washington Post described the book as “sycophantic” in its support for Trump.

After promoting unfounded conspiracy theories alleging election fraud in 2020, Pirro was named a defendant in a defamation lawsuit filed by Dominion Voting Systems, which said that Fox had broadcast false statements about the company.

Fox News settled the case for nearly $800m.

Last month, Republican members of the Senate Judiciary Committee voted unanimously to send Pirro’s nomination to the Senate floor after Democrats walked out to protest Emil Bove’s nomination to become a federal appeals court judge.

Pirro, a 1975 graduate of Albany Law School, has significantly more courtroom experience than Martin, who had never served as a prosecutor or tried a case before taking office in January. She was elected as a judge in New York’s Westchester County Court in 1990, before serving three terms as the county’s elected district attorney.

In the final minutes of his first term as president, Trump issued a pardon to Pirro’s ex-husband, Albert Pirro, who was convicted in 2000 on conspiracy and tax evasion charges.

WASHINGTON — The Senate has confirmed former Fox News host Jeanine Pirro as the top federal prosecutor for the nation’s capital, filling the post after President Trump withdrew his first pick, conservative activist Ed Martin Jr., who has defended the Jan. 6 rioters.

Pirro, a former county prosecutor and elected judge, was confirmed 50 to 45. Before becoming the acting U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia in May, she co-hosted the Fox News show “The Five” on weekday evenings, where she frequently interviewed Trump.

Trump yanked Martin’s nomination after a key Republican senator said he could not support him due to Martin’s outspoken support for rioters who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, many of them maiming police officers while trying to overturn Trump’s 2020 election defeat. Martin now serves as the Justice Department’s pardon attorney. Trump pardoned all of those convicted of crimes related to Jan. 6.

In 2021, voting technology company Smartmatic USA sued Fox News, Pirro and others for spreading false claims that the company helped “steal” the 2020 presidential election from Trump. The company’s libel suit, filed in a New York state court, sought $2.7 billion from the defendants. A similar lawsuit against Fox News by Dominion Voting Systems resulted in the cable network agreeing to a $787-million settlement.

Last month, Republican members of the Senate Judiciary Committee voted unanimously to send Pirro’s nomination to the Senate floor after Democrats walked out to protest Emil Bove’s nomination to become a federal appeals court judge.

Pirro, a 1975 graduate of Albany Law School, has significantly more courtroom experience than Martin, who had never served as a prosecutor or tried a case before taking office in January. She was elected as a judge in New York’s Westchester County Court in 1990 before serving three terms as the county’s elected district attorney.

In the final minutes of his first term as president, Trump issued a pardon to Pirro’s ex-husband, Albert Pirro, who was convicted in 2000 of conspiracy and tax evasion crimes.

Kunzelman writes for the Associated Press.

POUNDLAND has confirmed the full list of 12 more store closures amid a massive restructuing.

Sites across Canterbury, Coventry and Brigg have been named as destinations due to shut.

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Poundland’s retail director Darren MacDonald said:“While our anticipated network of around 650-700 stores remains sizeable, it is of course, sincerely that we’re closing a number of stores to allow us to get us back on track.

“We entirely understand how disappointing it will be for customers when a store nearby, closes but we look forward to continuing to welcome them to one of our other locations.

“Work is underway to with colleagues through a formal consultation process in stores scheduled to close, exploring any suitable alternative roles.”

You can check out the full list of closures here:

• Brigg: Cary Lane, Brigg, DN20 8EY
• Canterbury: Unit 2A, Marshwood Close Retail Park, Canterbury, CT1 1DX
• Coventry: 63 Hertford Street, Coventry, CV1 1LB
• Newcastle: Unit 15-18, Killingworth Centre, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE12 6YT
• Kings Heath: 74-76 High Street, Kings Heath, B14 7JZ
• Peterborough: Unit 19, Orton Gate Shopping Centre, PE2 5TD
• Peterlee: 32 Yoden Way, Castle Dene Shopping Centre, Peterlee, SR8 1AL
• Rainham: 12 Rainham Shopping Centre, Rainham, Gillingham, ME8 7HW
• Salford: Unit C Regent Retail Park, Ordsall Lane, Salford, M5 3TP
• Sheldon: 2192 Coventry Road, Sheldon, Birmingham, B26 3JE
• Wells: 27-29 High Street, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2AA
• Whitechapel: Units 2-5, 75 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1DU

Qatar signaled its interest as an Olympic Games host with established infrastructure from 2022 FIFA World Cup a key selling point.

The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) said it was taking part in “ongoing discussions” with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) over the election process for the host city of the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the organisation said in a media release on its website.

The country, which hosted football’s World Cup in 2022 and the Asian Cup in 2024, is the latest to join the race to stage the 2036 Games after confirmed bids from Indonesia, Turkiye, India and Chile.

Other Asian countries considering a bid include Saudi Arabia and South Korea. Egypt, Hungary, Italy, Germany, Denmark and Canada have also shown interest.

“We currently have 95% of the required sports infrastructure in place to host the Games, and we have a comprehensive national plan to ensure 100% readiness of all facilities,” Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, the president of QOC, told the state-run Qatar News Agency on Tuesday.

“This plan is rooted in a long-term vision aimed at building a socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable legacy.”

Qatar’s capital Doha is set to host the Asian Games in 2030, having staged the event in 2006.

A successful bid would make Qatar the first country in the Middle East to host the Olympics amid the region’s growing influence over major sporting events. Saudi Arabia is set to hold the football World Cup in 2034.

Unforgivable is a new drama from Time writer Jimmy McGovern and has a stellar cast including Anna Friel and Line of Duty’s Anna Maxwell Martin

The BBC has unveiled the release date for a chilling new drama featuring a young actor from Adolescence and a star from Line of Duty.

Unforgivable is a gripping original drama penned by Time’s scriptwriter Jimmy McGovern, and much like the Sean Bean and Stephen Graham led series Time, it’s set within and revolves around the UK prison system.

The plot centres on the fictional Mitchell family, who are left grappling with the devastating aftermath of an act of abuse committed by one of their own.

After serving two years of his prison sentence, Joe (portrayed by Bobby Schofield) finds himself in an institution that provides him with a home and rehabilitation post-release.

He embarks on therapy sessions in an attempt to comprehend what drove him to commit such a horrific crime, and to confront the repercussions of his actions, reports the Liverpool Echo.

The recently released trailer by the BBC depicts Joe adjusting to life after prison, while his family continue to question the reasons behind his abusive behaviour.

His sister Anne (played by Emmy-award winner Anna Friel) is coping with the impact his crime has had on her family, including her sons Tom (Adolescence actor Austin Haynes) and Peter (Fin McParland), whilst her father Brian (David Threlfall) is livid at the idea of her having been in contact with Joe.

Meanwhile, Line of Duty actress Anna Maxwell Martin portrays a former nun who provides Joe with therapy at the institution as part of his rehabilitation.

The upcoming drama Unforgivable has created quite a buzz with the BBC hinting that it’s all about the widespread impact of abuse and the struggle to move beyond its devastation.

“The drama examines the extensive ripple effect of abuse from multiple perspectives and how those involved can try to move forwards in the midst of the devastation,” the corporation teased ahead of the show’s anticipated release.

It has now been confirmed that Unforgivable will debut in full on BBC iPlayer at 6am on Thursday 24th July, with the episode airing later that day on BBC Two.

Reacting to the newly-published trailer, as it was shared by Marcella actress Anna on Instagram, one fan wrote: “Can’t wait – looks so good.”

Another posted: “Ohhhhhhhh wow – I feel a binge watch coming up!!!!!!”

“Gonna be seated to watch this religiously. Congrats on your new project,” a third said.

“It’s McGovern so looks so gripping already, thanks for sharing,” someone else wrote.

Set against the backdrop of Liverpool, where it was filmed, the cast is further bolstered with Mark Womack, Paddy Rowan, and Phina Oruche taking up pivotal supporting roles.

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, previously shared an insight into what viewers can expect from the drama, saying: “Jimmy McGovern is one of our greatest dramatists, and a master at writing about today’s world.

“His new film sensitively examines the pain of abuse and how it affects not only the victim but ripples out across the whole family. To see it brought to the screen with such a high calibre cast and creative team is further testament to the quality of Jimmy’s writing.”

Writer Jimmy McGovern also said: “I can’t believe the cast and crew that have been assembled for this production. It’s a challenging film, yes, but I can’t wait for it to be shown.”

Colin McKeown, executive producer for LA Productions added: “This is a profoundly challenging and sensitive subject, tackled with intelligence and care by Jimmy McGovern. It’s a privilege to be working with him again following the success of our previous collaborations on single dramas: Common, Care, Reg and Anthony.”

Unforgivable will be available to watch on BBC iPlayer at 6am on Thursday 24th July, and air on BBC Two at 9pm that evening.

It has been five months since Martin Fowler was brutally killed off on EastEnders leaving his fruit and veg stall unattended – but now a new stall keeper has been uncovered

Changes are coming to Albert Square as the iconic fruit and veg stall is set to have a new owner. Long time fans of the BBC soap will be well aware that Martin Fowler held down the stall until her was brutally killed off earlier this year.

Now it has been revealed that returning character Oscar Branning will take control of the market stall as he begins to resettle into life in East London. EastEnders fans will be well aware that Oscar is the teenage son of Max Branning and Tanya Cross and the younger brother of Lauren Branning.

The character first appeared on the BBC show 2007 and been played by Gabriel Miller-Williams from 2007 until 2008, Neo Hall from 2008 until 2015, and Charlee Hall from 2013 until 2017. Oscar is now being played by Pierre Moullier with an upcoming storyline set to explain how he ends up running the fruit and veg stall.

Discussing his casting recently, Pierre explained that he can’t wait for soap fans to see him on screen and learn where the show writers take his character. He said, as per OK! Magazine: “It’s pretty surreal to join EastEnders – it keeps hitting me that I’m actually on Albert Square.

“When I found out I was joining the Brannings, it was so exciting as they are such an iconic family, and I love that there are so many skeletons in the closet.” And teasing his character arc, he added: “Oscar is so much fun to play and the audience should be prepared for the unexpected as he’s a complex guy.”

EastEnders’ Executive Producer Ben Wadey shared his excitement over Oscar’s return. He said: “I’m very excited to bring Oscar Branning back to Walford and introduce viewers to him now that he’s all grown up.”

And hinting at the drama to come, Ben added: “Oscar is very much a Branning which means there’s going to be plenty of drama in store this summer. We’re delighted to welcome Pierre as he takes on the role and ca”t wait for viewers to see him bring Oscar to life.”

Plot details suggest that Oscar returns to Albert Square to shake up the life of his sister Lauren, played by Jacqueline Jossa. But when Lauren offers Oscar a trial shift on the stall – and encouraged by Penny Branning, played by Kitty Castledine, to take on the work – he begins to consider if he can build a life for himself in the city.

Earlier this year, EastEnders fans were devastated when Martin Fowler was killed off in a shock twist during a 40th anniversary special episode. James Bye, who played the character from 2014 to 2025, explained why the time was right to walk away from the character.

He said in a statement following his explosive exit: “Saying goodbye is not easy, but after 10 years at EastEnders and on the night of the show’s epic 40th anniversary, the time felt right. It’s an honour to leave on a story of this magnitude. A huge thank you to all the fans of the show – EastEnders wouldn’t be what it is without you – and to the BBC and EastEnders team for trusting me with this role for so many years. This fruit and veg man will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s time to look forward, and I’m incredibly excited for what the future holds. RIP Martin Fowler.”

Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw said at the time: “It’s incredibly sad to say goodbye to James, who has been a much-loved, loyal company member for 10 years. James’ performance in tonight’s live episode was nothing short of outstanding and one that I know will touch so many of you watching at home due to his loveable portrayal of Martin Fowler, which has made him a firm favourite amongst the viewers. When discussing James’ exit, we knew that we needed to give Martin Fowler the big explosive storyline that his character deserved.

“To leave the show in such an emotional storyline, during a live episode is something incredibly courageous to do as an actor, and one that I’m sure will cement itself in EastEnders history. I would like to thank James for everything he’s given to EastEnders, and although we will all miss him here at Elstree, he will always remain a member of the EastEnders family and we wish him the best for the future.”

Martin was first played by Jon Peyton-Price when EastEnders began in 1985 and he held onto the role until 1996. James Alexandrou then took on the role and played from 1996 until 2007 after which time James took over. Martin was killed when he was crushed by a fallen structural beam in an accident and died following a heart attack.

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It is thought Malaysian businessman Tan has little interest in selling Cardiff – the club he has invested £200m-plus into since buying in 2010.

Bale recently confirmed it would be “a dream come true” to purchase the Bluebirds, outlining his desire to take the club to the Premier League.

Speaking to Sky Sports in June, he said: “We’ve been speaking about it (a takeover), trying to engage with Cardiff but more news will come out on that in the future but hopefully we can get something done.”

The 35-year-old was heavily linked with a move to the Cardiff City Stadium prior to joining Los Angeles in the summer of 2022.

Bale went on to help the Major League Soccer side win the MLS Cup by scoring a last-minute equaliser in extra time of the final as LA went on to beat Philadelphia Union on penalties.

He featured in each of his country’s group stage matches against the USA, Iran and England at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar before retiring from football in January 2023.

Cardiff – now led by former Manchester City Elite Development Squad boss Brian Barry-Murphy – are preparing for a first campaign in the third tier since 2002-03 having finished bottom of the Championship last season.

The Bluebirds have not commented on the Bale-led consortium’s approaches to buy the club.

A Benidorm actress has share some exciting news about a potential new series of the much-loved ITV comedy

A much-loved Benidorm star has given fans a glimmer of hope about the return of the cult ITV comedy series.

Launching in 2007, the show captivated audiences as it charted the hilarious escapades of Brits basking in the sunshine at the Solana Resort. Over its glittering run, Benidorm scooped up numerous accolades including BAFTAs and NTAs, securing its status as a viewer’s delight.

Despite an all-star cast featuring Sheridan Smith, Siobhan Finneran, and Johnny Vegas, the show came to an untimely end after 11 years in 2018, much to devotees’ dismay.

Whispers of a revival have been circulating, spurred on by hints from the cast and even creator Derren Litten himself, reports OK!.

Sherrie Hewson, renowned for her portrayal of Joyce Temple-Savage, dropped a bombshell during her ‘An Evening With Sherrie Hewson’ on Sunday (July 6) in Barnsley. She revealed: “I do know ITV have got new scripts and they love them and think they are wonderful.”

Yet, she tempered expectations by stating: “The problem with Benidorm is that it’s probably one of the most expensive shows ever because it’s in Spain, we have a Spanish crew, we have a British crew, so it costs a fortune to make.”

Still, she remains optimistic, adding: “But it’s on twice a day every day and those ratings are still as high as they ever were, so I think it will [return].”

Fans loyal to Benidorm may just see their beloved characters gracing the screens once again thanks to ITV’s apparent adoration for the new material presented to them.

Sherrie hinted at good news: “And I think they [ITV bosses] love the scripts anyway and Derren said he laughed out loud when he wrote them so I don’t think there’s any question, it’s just when.”

In other news, Benidorm creator Derren Litten had fans buzzing in April when he announced that he is in negotiations with ITV about a potential revival of the fan-favourite show.

During a Facebook Live session reported by The Sun, Derren divulged some tantalising details: “Have I been talking to ITV in the last few months? Yes I have.”

He continued, giving fans a glimmer of hope: “Have ITV commissioned a special or a series at the moment? No. Might they in the next few weeks [or] couple of months? Yeah they might. They might.”

Derren concluded, aiming to uplift fans with anticipation: “So I hope that gives you [the fans] some hope, and I hope that gives you some idea of where we are,” indicating that the beloved sitcom may soon return to the small screen.

Sex Education star Simone Ashley will return to screens in the fourth season of Bridgerton, and the actress has opened up about filming intimate scenes for the hit Netflix show

Bridgerton sensation Simone Ashley has opened up about feeling “very safe and comfortable” while shooting steamy scenes for the smash-hit series, Bridgerton. The star of Sex Education, who is also on the cusp of dropping her first album, labelled the Netflix sensation Bridgerton as pure “fantasy”.

Speaking to Harper’s Bazaar, she said: “It’s about, ‘What if?’ and how love conquers all. Bridgerton represents nudity with a sense of romance, and I felt very safe and comfortable in what I was choosing to show to the world.”

With the fourth instalment of the period drama set to hit screens next year, Ashley shared with the publication: “‘That show just gets bigger and bigger. Everyone has gone off to do incredible things, but we come back and it’s like time hasn’t moved.”

READ MORE: Bridgerton star facing ‘Hollywood erasure’ despite acting alongside Brad Pitt

Recounting her bold move to Los Angeles at the tender age of 18, she revealed: “I was really scrappy. Since I was little, if I wanted something, I would do anything I could to get it. So, I took some modelling jobs to pay the bills and got into acting through that.”

Gracing the digital cover of Harper’s Bazaar, Ashley divulged that her upcoming album was born out of a recent split. She explained: “It’s going to be somewhat confessional… and beautiful and messy.

“Good songs don’t come from times when my life is regimented and predictable. They come when I am feeling vitality, and usually you either feel that way when your heart’s broken, or you’re euphoric. This work has been an amazing channel to put all those feelings into.”

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This new career move comes after Ashley’s recent role in rom-com Picture This. Following the release of that movie, the Bridgerton star opened up about the importance of diversity in romantic-comedies.

The Sex Education icon, who was born to Tamil parents, stars as photographer Pia – who is juggling a failing business while dealing with the arrival of her ex and her parents’ concern for her love life. The feel-good movie was released on Amazon Prime Video on 6 March and also stars Hero Fiennes Tiffin.

She added: “I would say the younger me is kind of like, ‘Oh my gosh, we did a rom com and it’s an Indian girl leading it!'” Although she wishes she could have seen diverse characters when she was younger, she hopes Picture This helps with it. She said: “To put it simply… When it comes to this movie, I just want brown women to have it and to just win!”

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