RIVERSIDE — It would not have been an easy reelection bid in any case for freshman Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Riverside), who barely made it to Congress two years ago.
But now Calvert’s biggest reelection hurdle may be his own indiscretions, which also could pose a problem in surviving even his own party’s June primary.
The reason: After months of denying it, Calvert, 40, has admitted having sex in his car one night last November with a woman who police say is a known prostitute.
Initially, Calvert–a member of a prominent Riverside County family–said he was doing nothing wrong with the woman when police saw them together on a Corona street.
Corona police said simply that the congressman was spotted sitting in his car with a female, that there was no criminal activity and that after a few words the congressman drove off.
But the Riverside Press-Enterprise newspaper went to court to press Corona for release of confidential police reports that had been prepared by officers who were sensitive to the fact that they had a street-level encounter with their local congressman.
The city was ordered to release the report, which indicated that there had been evidence of a sex act under way, and an embarrassed Calvert responded with a prepared statement.
“My conduct that evening was inappropriate,” he said–not because it was illegal, but because “it violated the values of the person I strive to be.” He admitted that he was caught in “an extremely embarrassing situation.”
He said he did not pay for the sex. He said he “panicked and tried to drive away” when the officers confronted him, but “came to my senses” and cooperated with them.
Corona Police Capt. John Dalzell said Calvert was not detained or arrested because “while the officer saw certain things, he didn’t see everything necessary to support a finding that a crime was committed.” Dalzell said there was no witness to an exchange of money for services, and neither party claimed to be a victim.
Dalzell said Calvert did not try to exert influence to avoid arrest. He said the officer’s decision not to pursue the matter “wasn’t a close call. He didn’t even call for a supervisor.”
In his explanation for his conduct that night, Calvert said he had come back from a rough week in Washington and was reeling from his father’s suicide a year earlier, as well as his wife’s request for a divorce, which had been granted just a few weeks before.
“I was feeling intensely lonely,” he said. “I realize now that this, or a similar incident, was probably inevitable.”
Calvert, who worked in commercial real estate before his election to Congress in 1992, was expected to coast to his party’s nomination this year to represent western Riverside County in Washington. His opponent in the primary, conservative Joe Khoury, 47, a professor of finance at UC Riverside, ran second behind Calvert in the primary two years ago but thinks he can prevail this time.
“I thought he was vulnerable, even before this incident,” Khoury said. “Riverside is conservative, and voters’ reaction to this is not pleasant. It plays differently here than it would in, say, Los Angeles.”
Calvert’s campaign manager, Ed Slevin, agreed that Calvert will have his hands full winning the primary because of the Corona incident. “I assume he’s more vulnerable in June among conservative Republicans than he’ll be in November,” he said. “I think that, by then, it’ll be considered old news.”
If Calvert wins the primary, his Democratic challenger is expected to be Mark Takano, a high school history and English teacher and trustee of the Riverside Community College District. Takano lost to Calvert by a little more than 500 votes in 1992, and is expected to handily win his party’s nomination in June against a single challenger.
Takano scolded Calvert for not coming clean earlier about the Corona incident. “Mr. Calvert has only himself to blame for his becoming a bigger issue than putting people back to work, fighting crime and improving our schools,” Takano said.
Democratic Party strategists said that, even before Calvert’s encounter with the woman in Corona, the 43rd Congressional District seat had been targeted for turnover because of what they characterized as Calvert’s lackluster performance in Washington during his first stint there and his vulnerability back home.
Rivals fans have been left unimpressed as it has been rumoured that part 2 of the beloved series is set to be released in ‘late 2026’ with Disney refusing to confirm release
08:04, 29 May 2026Updated 08:04, 29 May 2026
Taggie in Rivals season 2(Image: DISNEY)
TV hit Rivals has come under fire from fans as the the last scheduled mid-season finale episode is set to be released next week, and Disney+ has yet to confirm when the next six episodes will be streaming.
The first three episodes of the series were launched on May 15, with a new episode released every Friday in the weeks following, with the sixth episode in part one slated for June 5.
However, Disney+ has yet to reveal when the final six episodes of the 12 episode series is set to be released, and multiple outlets have referenced a ‘late 2026’ release date and an October air date. Fans have been less than impressed by these rumours and can’t quite believe they may have to wait months to see more drama unfold in Rutshire.
“Finally starting season 2 of #Rivals , which I heard has been split into 2 parts?? And the other half doesn’t come out until October?? Does Hulu think it’s Netflix now?,” said one fan on X.
“Rivals release schedule is terrible. they’re gonna kill the momentum of the show and I doubt they will do a lot of promo during the break. I would rather wait for a late summer release instead of waiting for 6 months between the two parts,” said another.
“I’m always against bullying but I may need to make an exception for Hulu and Disney+ because having a 5 month break between part 1 and 2 of the new season of rivals should be illegal. like wtf were they thinking? and honestly why kill the momentum like that?,” said another fan.
The Mirror approached Disney for comment on the release dates and was informed that they don’t currently have an update about the release date of part two.
As part of SXSW David Tennant and Claire Rushbrook are set to appear at a screening of the finale of part one season two in London, further adding to speculation that this will be a big mid-season finale and fans may be waiting for some time for part two.
While many viewers are frustrated, some have speculated that there is a deeper meaning behind the long wait, and feel as though this is like getting two seasons for the price of one.
“I’m going to be crashing out daily but I fully expected season two to be out in October anyway so it really is an extra treat to have some eps now!! from the sounds of it they’ve set ep6 up to be a proper mid season finale and I’m so sat for it,” said one fan on X.
“The rivals break is gonna be rough but considering they did a 10 month shoot, announced the premiere date before wrapping, AND we got episodes way before we all thought we would..i feel like they have their reasons for it (it’ll be torture but i know all about waiting),” said another.
“My unpopular opinion is that people are massively overreacting about the rivals season split. wdym people won’t care? it ended on a cliffhanger last time and we were gagging for s2. 12 episodes is a lot for a british show — it’s like getting two seasons in a year!” said another.
For now, it’s unclear when part two of the beloved series will be released, but fans can be sure to expect something explosive and tantalising given the positive reaction to the series so far. Rotten Tomatoes has given season two a 100% approval rating so far, with fans completely hooked on the sexy Cotswolds drama.
SAVANNAH Guthrie has quietly dropped hundreds of thousands on private investigators in a desperate attempt to find her mother months after she was abducted from her home.
The U.S. Sun can report that the Today anchor, 54, has shelled out around $500,000 to keep the search going for Nancy, 84, after losing faith in the official investigation.
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Savannah Guthrie, here on Today, has spent over $500,000 in private investigator services in the search for her abducted motherCredit: GettySources told The U.S. Sun that Savannah has a team tirelessly working on her beloved mother, Nancy’s disappearanceCredit: Instagram/savannahguthrie
Though many have lost hope that Nancy will ever be found, Savannah “has told everyone involved that the search will continue for as long as necessary,” an insider told The U.S. Sun.
“She is not prepared to stop looking for her mother. She feels that depending only on the official investigation is not enough anymore – that’s why she’s investing so heavily in private investigators and outside specialists.”
The source said that the heartbroken daughter has hired an “entire independent team” who are “working leads every day” to help bring her beloved mother home.
This top-notch team includes former agents, security experts, and investigators, the insider claimed.
According to the insider, the veteran journalist became disillusioned with the official investigation.
“She became increasingly disappointed with how communication from authorities changed over time,” they added.
“What once felt urgent started to feel far more routine.”
Savannah’s mother, Nancy, was taken from her home on February 1stCredit: Instagram/savannahguthrieA chilling video showed an armed and masked man at the door to her Arizona home the night she vanishedCredit: Getty
“When Savannah learned there would no longer be direct contact with the sheriff, she took that very personally,” the insider continued.
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“She felt the family was being pushed further away from the center of the investigation.”
Meanwhile, a second insider explained: “The financial cost has become enormous, but Savannah doesn’t care about the money.”
“Right now, every dollar is worth spending if it helps bring her mother home.
“By now, the costs have climbed well into the mid-six figures.
“And remember, Savannah was once willing to pay a ransom, so spending big on the search is nothing new for her.”
“She keeps telling friends the same thing: The family can’t stop searching.
“But she still believes there’s a chance her mother can be found, and that belief is what keeps the private search going every single day.”
Rob Shuter’s Naughty But Nice Substack was the first to report on Savannah’s ongoing investigator efforts into Nancy‘s disappearance.
More than 100 days have passed since Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her bed in the early morning hours of February 1.
As the Pima County Sheriff’s Office remains tight-lipped, a feud has erupted behind the scenes between local cops and the highest levels of federal law enforcement.
FBI Director Kash Patel went on national television to blast local authorities, claiming they completely botched the opening hours of the investigation.
Speaking with Fox News host Sean Hannity, Patel emphasized that while missing persons cases technically fall under local jurisdiction, the first 48 hours are the absolute most critical window to find someone alive.
According to the FBI chief, federal agents were left twiddling their thumbs for four straight days before locals finally let them in.
Once the Bureau secured access, they immediately bypassed local roadblocks to recover chilling Nest security camera footage from Guthrie’s front porch.
Patel took direct credit for the breakthrough, noting the Bureau had to coordinate directly with Google just to get those haunting images out to the public.
The finger-pointing did not stop there. Patel openly slammed Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos for bypassing the FBI’s world-class crime lab in Quantico, Virginia.
Instead, local police shipped crucial DNA evidence found inside Nancy’s home to a private laboratory down in Florida.
Timeline of Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance
Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, disappeared from her home on February 1, 2026.
Timeline:
January 31: Nancy is last seen by her family
5:32pm: Nancy travels to her daughter’s home for dinner, about 11 minutes from her own house.
9:48pm: Family members drop off Nancy Guthrie at her home in Tucson. Her garage door closes two minutes later.
February 1: Nancy is reported missing and a search begins
1:47am: Nancy’s doorbell camera disconnects
2:12am: Camera software detects a person moving in range of the camera. There is no video, and Nancy does not have a storage description.
2:28am: Nancy’s pacemaker app disconnects from her phone, which is later found still at her house.
Around 11am: A parishioner at Nancy’s church calls the mom’s children and says she failed to show up for service.
11:56am: Family members arrive at Nancy’s house to check on her.
12:03pm: The family calls 911 to report Nancy missing.
8:55pm: The Pima County Sheriff’s Office gives its first press conference and reveals some clues found at Nancy’s home caused “grave concern.” Sheriff Chris Nanos says helicopters, drones, and infrared cameras are all being utilized in the search.
February 2: Search crews pull back. Nancy’s home is considered a crime scene. Savannah releases a statement thanking supporters for their prayers, which her co-hosts read on Today.
February 3: A trail of blood is pictured outside Nancy’s home, where there were reportedly signs of forced entry. Nanos admits they have no suspects, no leads, and no videos that could lead to Nancy’s recovery. He and the FBI beg for more tips and accounts.
February 4, 8pm: Savannah and her siblings release a heartbreaking video directed at their mother’s abductors asking for proof she is alive and saying they’re willing to work with them to get her back.
February 5: FBI offers $50,000 reward for information on the case.
5pm: First ransom demand deadline for millions in Bitcoin passes. Guthrie family releases demand to speak “directly” to the kidnappers, saying, “We want to talk to you and we are waiting for contact.”
Blood is confirmed to be Nancy’s.
February 7: Savannah and her siblings share a video stating they received a message from kidnappers and are willing to pay.
February 9, 5pm: Second ransom demand deadline, reportedly with “much more serious” conditions.
Savannah posts a video asking the public to report anything strange to law enforcement.
February 10: The FBI release surveillance footage of the armed masked suspect outside Guthrie’s house on the night she disappeared.
February 11: A man is detained in Rio Rico, about 19 miles south of Tucson. The individual was released after being questioned by authorities.
February 12: Suspect described as 5’9″-5’10” carrying a black Ozark Trail backpack (Walmart exclusive).
February 13: A second man is detained by police after being pulled over by Pima County officers near a Culver’s in Tucson. The man, identified as Luke Daley, was questioned and has since been released.
February 15: DNA is collected from a discarded glove found 2 miles away that matches surveillance.
February 16: Sheriff Nanos clears the Guthrie family and their spouses of any involvement.
February 24: The Guthrie family increased the family’s reward for information to $1million.
March 4: DNA on the glove is traced to a restaurant worker, and the person is cleared of any involvement.
March 16: ABC News reports that more images have been obtained from motion-activated cameras.
March 26: Savannah’s first on-camera interview since her mother’s disappearance airs.
Patel claimed he had hundreds of federal agents and intelligence analysts deployed to Phoenix and Tucson on standby, ready to flood the neighborhood and process the DNA evidence within days.
He expressed frustration that the Bureau was sidelined, arguing their premier lab could have cracked open better leads by now.
Sheriff Nanos is fiercely hitting back against the narrative.
In an official statement, Nanos denied keeping the feds in the dark, insisting that members of the FBI Task Force were actually boots-on-the-ground at the scene alongside local detectives from the very beginning.
Nanos fired back that both his department and Nancy’s own family notified federal authorities immediately.
A POPULAR UK coastal path is set to close for months this summer.
It’s been confirmed that the scenic walking route will be out of use while essential repairs are made.
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A popular UK walking route will be closed this summerCredit: GettyHampshire’s Langstone Coastal Path is being repairedCredit: HelenWalkerz65
The Langstone Coastal Path, located behind Farlington Marshes near Portsmouth, is a beloved walking and cycling trail that passes through natural beauty spots and coastal towns.
But the public will not have access to the Hampshire footpath this summer while coastal erosion repairs are underway.
The nature-packed hiking trail, which boasts a 23km route that loops around the Langstone Harbour, will be closed over the summer months from May 26 until September.
This will allow for refurbishments to be done to areas of the sea wall damaged by coastal erosion, in order for the area and its wildlife to remain protected.
The National Highways project means that a diversion will be put in place while the works are in progress. This will run along Eastern Road and Havant Road.
Katarina Saradinova, head of scheme delivery for the South East region, told The Portsmouth News: “This is a beautiful location, and our work will help protect the coastline, wildlife and surrounding environment for future generations.
“We understand the diversion route will lead visitors away from the scenicnature reserve, but these closures are essential to allow repairs to the sea wall, damaged by coastal erosion, to be carried out safely. Unauthorised access could also disrupt the construction schedule,” she added.
Efforts have also been made to ensure that the timing of the works disrupts wildlife habitats as little as possible.
The summer project has been planned in order to avoid disturbing the nesting period of overwintering birds in the area.
While access will still be available from the western entrance of Farlington Marshes, the path between Farlington Marshes car park and Chalk Dock Lake car park will be off limits.
I’VE been reporting on the darker side of Katie Price’s husband Lee Andrews since she married him back in January – and now believe his “kidnapping” is simply another brazen storyline he’s written to try and hoodwink her further.
And now it’s all unravelling faster than he could have imagined, with Katie finally admitting she is giving up on searching for him because (spoiler alert) she’s realised it’s all a massive lie.
Katie Price has now ‘given up’ searching for missing husband Lee AndrewsCredit: Louis WoodDays before his so-called ‘kidnapping’, Andrews was already under pressure after being caught out claiming he was flying from Muscat Airport in Oman, when fans spotted he was actually at Dubai Terminal 2Credit: Instagram
If she chooses one day to share the rest of her story, I would urge you to listen to her. I did, and it made me feel physically sick.
Andrews threatened that he had lodged criminal charges against me in Dubai, which would see me arrested if I ever landed in the country and said he was suing me for defamation, which, comically, he spelt “deformation”.
Andrews then bragged he was going to get me sacked before messaging me on social media with a meme calling me a “c**t.”
Over the past few days, I have taken numerous calls from people all over the world who wanted to share their experiences of Andrews.
People have claimed to me that Andrews owes millions to businesses from failed schemes and warned there are more women who willingly handed over cash to receive nothing in return.
But it’s not unusual for wrong ‘uns who, after realising the jig is up, introduce an elaborate narrative to try and distance themselves from the chaos they’ve left in their wake.
In my opinion, the events of the past seven days are all a narrative being spun by Andrews to be parroted out by Katie, whose friends insist has nothing to do with his lies.
Now she’s reached the end of her patience.
“Katie knows something isn’t right about this scenario deep down,” a friend told me.
“Lee was active on WhatsApp two days after he told her he was going missing. She has heard nothing and has just been ghosted.
“She was so panicked at the start, but now it’s become a drain on her. The people around her have warned that this isn’t normal and that it all seems a bit suspect.”
In my opinion, Andrews has been laying the groundwork for his exit from Katie’s life for some time.
I’d never heard that porker before, and I laughed as I regaled a story his ex-fiancee, Alana, who bravely spoke out to warn Katie off Andrews back in January, had told me about Andrews telling her he had worked for MI5.
Much like his now-debunked claims from his fictional CV, including that he worked for the Labour Party and was the Director of Philanthropy at the King’s Trust, I laughed it off and forgot about it.
Lee Andrews’ ex-fiancée, Alana Percival, said he lied to her about being terminally ill and leaving her his fortuneAlana says Andrews pulled similar disappearing acts during their relationshipCredit: Instagram
But after seeing the messages Andrews sent Katie, where he claimed he had been kidnapped and taken to a “black site”, to me, it suddenly all started to make sense.
In my opinion, Andrews’ MO is twisting narratives in a bid to make out he is something he plainly isn’t.
Suggesting to Katie and others that he works in a more than shady industry as an arms dealer to me suggests he was laying the foundations that he worked in a dangerous underworld.
My esteemed boss Clemmie Moodie persuaded Katie to share the final desperate texts she received from Andrews in The Sun newspaper – and to me, his messages bear all the hallmarks of a man trying to pen a story with a better twist than some of Agatha Christie’s greatest works.
“Katie was basically told by Lee that he was involved in all sorts of business, and not all of it was savoury,” my contact explained.
“He told her he was an international arms dealer. It was something he openly boasted about.
“Lee made her think he had his fingers in all sorts of pies.
“So when he spun her a story about being kidnapped, she fell for it. Because, as far as Katie is concerned, this is the kind of world Lee has connections with and operates in.
“Now with everything that is coming out, she’s realising she may have been played for a fool.”
Far from being kidnapped, I firmly believe Andrews is now simply hiding out in Dubai – a country he cannot leave because, as Katie herself confirmed, he has a travel ban… even though Andrews went on to deny it.
Katie Price has been ghosted by Lee Andrews since last WednesdayCredit: ITVIn chilling messages shared with The Sun, Lee Andrews told Katie Price he had been arrested and taken to a ‘black site’
He initially managed to shrug off the criticism.
But after he publicly humiliated Katie live on Good Morning Britain, and she publicly turned on him for the first time, I believe Andrews realised he had entered uncharted waters and knew it was time to get out.
LOVE Island stars Whitney Adebayo and Yamen Sanders have split after five months.
The pair found love in the ITV All Stars villa in South Africa in January – finishing in fifth place.
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Whitney Adebayo and Yamen Sanders have split after five monthsCredit: InstagramThe pair found love in the ITV All Stars villa in South AfricaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
However, rumours have swirled of their break-up after the couple were navigating a long-distance relationship.
Bin Hyun-joon, chief of the social statistics bureau at the Ministry of Data and Statistics, holds a press conference at the government complex in Sejong, South Korea. Photo by YONHAP / EPA
May 13 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s employment rate fell for the first time in 16 months in April as hiring growth slowed amid higher oil prices, weaker consumer sentiment and continued external uncertainty tied to the Middle East war.
The number of employed people aged 15 and older stood at 28.96 million in April, up 74,000 from a year earlier, according to employment data released Wednesday by Statistics Korea.
The increase was the smallest since December 2024 and the first time this year that job growth fell below 100,000.
The employment rate fell 0.2 percentage point from a year earlier to 63.0%, marking its first decline in 16 months.
Youth employment remained weak. The number of employed people aged 15 to 29 fell by 194,000 from a year earlier to 3.42 million, extending its decline for a 42nd consecutive month since November 2022.
The youth employment rate dropped 1.6 percentage points from a year earlier, marking its 24th straight month of decline.
By industry, wholesale and retail jobs fell by 52,000 from a year earlier, while accommodation and food service jobs declined by 29,000. Manufacturing employment dropped by 55,000.
Officials attributed the slowdown to weaker consumer sentiment and continued external uncertainty related to the prolonged Middle East war. Transportation and warehousing jobs, which are sensitive to oil prices, rose by 18,000, but the pace of growth slowed.
Agriculture, forestry and fisheries employment fell by 92,000 amid population aging, while professional, scientific and technical services dropped by 115,000 because of a high base from last year.
Health and social welfare service jobs increased by 261,000, supported by rising care demand and government-backed direct job programs for older people.
“Employment gains were led by health and welfare services, arts, sports and leisure, and real estate,” said Bin Hyun-joon, head of social statistics at Statistics Korea. “By age group, employment increased among people aged 60 and older and those in their 30s, but the pace of growth slowed from the previous month.”
British number one Emma Raducanu will make her return to action in Strasbourg after being granted a wildcard, as she seeks match practice before the French Open.
Raducanu, 23, withdrew from the Italian Open on health grounds earlier this month and has not competed since a third-round loss to American Amanda Anisimova at Indian Wells on 8 March.
The clay-court event in Strasbourg begins on Sunday, one week before the start of the French Open on 24 May.
Raducanu is set to miss out on a seeded position at the second Grand Slam of the year following the post-viral infection which has kept her away from the tour.
The 2021 US Open winner is currently ranked 30th in the world but will drop several places following the conclusion of this week’s tournaments in Rome and Paris.
Raducanu was granted a wildcard for last year’s WTA 500 event in Strasbourg, where she beat top-20 player Daria Kasatkina before losing to American Danielle Collins.
The Briton has won seven of her 14 matches this year, with four of those victories coming during her run to the final of the Transylvania Open in February after her second-round exit at the Australian Open.
Raducanu gave no clear indication that she would pull out of the Italian Open in March despite speaking to the media just 30 minutes before that decision was announced, but said she only wanted to return to competition when “100% ready”.
LORNA Luxe rewore her wedding dress to the BAFTA TV Awards in a touching tribute to her late husband – three months after his sad death.
The popular influencer was left heartbroken in February when her husband John passed away aged 64 following a battle with adrenal cancer.
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Lorna Luxe rewore her wedding dress to the TV Baftas on SundayCredit: InstagramLorna’s husband John passed away in February aged 64Credit: Instagram
But in a touching tribute, Lorna, 43, opted to wear her wedding gown to the annual event in London, keeping her husband close in her thoughts as she continues to figure out life without him.
Earlier in the week, Lorna had shared on TikTok that she was keen to wear her dress, as it also tapped into the awards’ theme of sustainability, but it was a little loose around her rib cage which was off putting.
But on Sunday, Lorna took to Instagram to show off her glam red carpet look and was wearing the dress, which featured a satin bodice, thin straps and a chiffon drape coming from the cleavage and down around the hips to become the skirt.
Lorna tagged her hair and make up team in the video, and also added: “I’m so chuffed I got the dress altered with @abigailwestrupbridal it fits like a glove.”
Lorna had the dress altered so it fit properly again in time for the eventCredit: Instagram
Lorna completed the look with some stunning diamond earrings and a necklace which she said she had borrowed for the evening, but meant that she would be accompanied by a security guard from the jewellers all evening due to their hefty price tag.
But in a further fitting tribute to John, she also revealed she was wearing her huge engagement ring and some diamond bracelets she had also received from her late spouse.
She added: “So it just feels really lovely, and I’m in my dress.”
A close friend of Lorna’s exclusively told The Sun’s Fabulous Magazine: “She had been planning to do it for quite some time. In fact her and John had discussed it as a ‘next chapter’ in her career.
“She made the request to Instagram to change it last year, but it just automatically changed on a Saturday night. It really pleased her as she knew John would have loved it.”
DUNCAN James has revealed a major milestone with his new boyfriend, eight months after splitting from his ex.
The Blue singer, 48, is now datingAlexander Roque, a performer with a stripping show called Forbidden Nights.
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Duncan James has revealed a major milestone with his boyfriend Alexander RoqueCredit: Instagram/MrduncanjamesAlexander is moving into Duncan’s mothers house with himCredit: Instagram/Mrduncanjames
Now the musician has revealed that Alexander is moving into his mother’s home to live with them after less than a year.
It comes eight months after Duncan’s split from ex Rodrigo ReisCredit: Shutterstock EditorialDuncan is a member of the British band, BlueCredit: Getty
“They have really fun banter between them and they speak to each other on the phone daily. It’s just really lovely.
“Right now, I want to touch wood because I don’t want anything to go wrong or jinx it, but honestly I’m just so happy.
“I’m excited because it’s a new chapter of my life. I’m so happy and I’m in a really loving relationship. And the fact that he gets on so well with my mum…
“I couldn’t be in a relationship with somebody if my mum didn’t get on with them. I’m so close to my mum.
Clearly smitten with his new beau, he told The Sun at the time: “He is a very handsome boy, it’s early days.
“You know, I broke up with my ex in May. I did keep it quiet and then I went to aHollyoaksparty with Alexander, but then of course it looks like I’ve just ended the relationship and gone out straight away with him, which isn’t the case, because there was a longer time frame.
“I think in general, I just feel that, me and Rodrigo, we just came to a natural end.
“And I love him to bits and we’re still friends and everything. But yeah, it was six and a half years.”
A MAJOR airline boss has said that the ongoing fuel crisis is causing more problems than Covid did.
AirAsia chief executive Tony Fernandes said the quick increase in jet fuel overnight was “much worse”.
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AirAsia’s Tony Fernandes said the increase of fuel was worst than CovidCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
He told the FT: “I thought I’d seen it all with Covid but having seen jet fuel go up almost three times – this is much worse.
“You wake up one day and your major cost has tripled – it was quite a new experience for me and I’ve been through a lot in my life.”
This was backed by the Chancellor of Germany earlier this year who said if it continues, it would affect the European economy as “heavy as we recently experienced during the Covid pandemic”.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz since March has already caused problems for airlines, due to shortages of fuel.
American budget airline Spirit Airlines was even forced into administration, citing the higher jet fuel costs as a major cause.
Thankfully, UK airlines are yet to be massively affected, with most tour operators confirming that holidays are still going ahead as planned.
The only disruption is to the Middle East with destinations like Dubai still on the travel ban list.
On The Beach has even launched a new initiative for travellers this summer, where, if their flight is cancelled, they will get a refund on the same day.
Budget airline Spirit was forced to close, citing fuel costsCredit: EPA
However, Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary warned that unless fuel prices dropping, airlines are at risk of failing this summer.
According to Politico, he said: “If pricing stays higher for longer this summer, we think a number of our airline competitors in Europe are going to face real financial difficulties. I think there will be failures.”
To protect passengers from last minute travel chaos, the Department for Transport has also revealed new measures which will allow airlines to cancel flights up to two weeks in advance, without losing their airport slots.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said it would “give families long-term certainty and avoid unnecessary disruption at the departure gate this summer.”
But Which? Travel Editor Rory Boland warned: “Many passengers will understand that disruptions can occur and may be happy to travel a few hours or a day later.
“But for those on short trips or connecting flights it could mean the trip is no longer worthwhile.”
Jesy Nelson today shared a huge milestone in her twins’ health battleCredit: InstagramThe singer shared a video of feeding her babies – seen here with OceanCredit: Instagram
The tots’ devastating diagnosis is a genetic condition that weakens the muscles by damaging motor nerve cells in the spinal cord.
Today, Jesy shared a new update with fans where she revealed how Ocean and Story had tried eating in their specialised feeding chairs for the first time.
In the heartmelting moment, the singer could be seen feeding her daughters some fruit purée.
Speaking to Ocean as she gently spooned food into her little mouth, Jesy said:: “Excuse me, you’re supposed to eat it, not spit it out.”
The star’s baby Story cooed as her mum fed herCredit: InstagramJesy bravely revealed her twins SMA1 diagnosis back in JanuaryCredit: Instagram/Jesynelson
She then turned her attention to Story, who was seen enjoying her dinner,
Jesy previously revealed how she got emotional when the special chairs arrived back in February.
“So the girls need special feeding chairs that came yesterday and I couldn’t help but burst into tears yesterday when I saw them,” she said at the time.
“It just made me feel so sad as it’s just another reminder of another obstacle we have to tackle.”
It comes after Jesy revealed last week how Story had said ‘muma’ for the first timeCredit: InstagramThe singer was over the moon with Story’s speech progress and shared the sweet video on social mediaCredit: Instagram
SMA1 patients typically have limited or no spoken speech with communication usually made through eye movement and guttural sounds.
But Jesy’s baby girl is fighting against all odds, and managed to very clearly get out her first word, in a video posted on Instagram.
Story was wrapped up in a blanket, laying down on the sofa when she gave her mum quite the shock.
Jesy’s twins, Story Monroe and Ocean Jade, are now 11-months-oldCredit: INSTAGRAMJesy and her ex-fiancé Zion Foster were told their daughters may never walkCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Jesy could be heard shouting with happiness: “Yeahhhhhh! Yesss clever girl.
“Storyyy good girl, you’re such a clever girl. Wow well done. Yeah do it again.”
The Boyz singer wrote the words, “Story said muma for the first time my life is complete,” over the top of the clip.
TV star Jesy has also shared some of the stretches she’s been doing with the girls to help strengthen their legs.
SMA1 leads to progressive muscle wasting, and if untreated, the life expectancy of a baby with the disease is just two years.
Jesy and her ex-fiancé Zion have been told it’s unlikely the girls will ever walk, and may face serious breathing and swallowing difficulties.
The 34-year-old has opened up on her hopes to use her platform – of over 10 million followers – to raise awareness of SMA1 and shine a light on the realities families face when caring for children with the condition.
Jesy previously said that if sharing her story helps even one other parent feel less alone, it will be worth it.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Signs and symptoms
Spinal muscular atrophy is a disease which takes away a person’s strength and it causes problems by disrupting the motor nerve cells in the spinal cord.
This causes an individual to lose the ability to walk, eat and breathe.
There are four types of SMA – which are based on age.
Type 1 is diagnosed within the first six months of life and is usually fatal.
Type 2 is diagnosed after six months of age.
Type 3 is diagnosed after 18 months of age and may require the individual to use a wheelchair.
Type 4 is the rarest form of SMA and usually only surfaces in adulthood.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of SMA will depend on which type of condition you have.
But the following are the most common symptoms:
• Floppy or weak arms and legs
• Movement problems – such as difficulty sitting up, crawling or walking
• Twitching or shaking muscles
• Bone and joint problems – such as an unusually curved spine
• Swallowing problems
• Breathing difficulties
However, SMA does not affect a person’s intelligence and it does not cause learning disabilities.
How common is it?
The majority of the time a child can only be born with the condition if both of their parents have a faulty gene which causes SMA.
Usually, the parent would not have the condition themselves – they would only act as a carrier.
Statistics show around 1 in every 40 to 60 people is a carrier of the gene which can cause SMA.
If two parents carry the faulty gene there is a 1 in 4 (25 per cent) chance their child will get spinal muscular atrophy.
South Korea’s Financial Supervisory Service has reportedly decided to suspend the business operations of Lotte Card for 4 1/2 months over a personal data breach, along with a $3.4 million penalty. File Photo by Jeon Heon-kyun/EPA
May 1 (UPI) — South Korea’s Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) reportedly decided Thursday to suspend the business operations of Lotte Card for 4 1/2 months over a data breach.
The financial watchdog is also reported to have finalized the disciplinary measure, including a $3.4 million penalty and a reprimand warning for its former CEO Cho Jwa-jin.
The FSS declined to confirm the reports, while Lotte Card acknowledged it.
“Imposing a business suspension over a hacking case would be an unprecedented level of sanction,” Lotte Card said in a statement.
“As follow-up procedures remain, including a resolution by the Financial Services Commission (FSC), we will fully explain our position regarding the severity of the punishment, as well as our post-incident response efforts,” it added.
Nearly 3 million Lotte Card customers had their personal information compromised last year. The state-run Personal Information Protection Commission has already imposed a $64 million fine on the firm over the incident.
Following the FSS decision, the FSC is expected to make the final call in the coming months.
In 2019, South Korea’s leading private equity company, MBK Partners, teamed up with Woori Bank to acquire a 79.8% stake in Lotte Card for about $1 billion. MBK took 59.8%, and Woori held the remaining 20%.
MBK Partners sought to sell its stake in Lotte Card in 2023 but failed to find a buyer, and a similar effort last year also yielded limited results.
WHEN her 13-year marriage to Patrick Kielty shockingly ended last year, Cat Deeley was left feeling anxious as she navigated a brand new chapter.
But 12 months on, the This Morning star, 49, has undergone a transformation and has a new lease of confidence, The Sun can reveal.
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As it nears a year since Cat Deeley’s split from husband Patrick Kielty, the TV star has done a complete 180 as she embraces single life with a glowing new outlookCredit: Instagram/@catdeeleyShe and Patrick, who share two sons, announced their separation after 13 years of marriageCredit: Getty
And after going through a tough time with the split, Cat now has a new glow, which hasn’t gone unnoticedCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe star has been letting her hair down with trips to visit old pals and nights outCredit: instagramWhilst her co-host Ben Shephard has also served as a supportive shoulder to lean onFriends have also revealed that glamorous Cat is open to dating again as she puts herself back out thereCredit: Instagram/@catdeeley
But now, a close friend has revealed to The Sun that Cat is living her new single life to the fullest.
She is not only open to dating again and looking more glamorous than ever, but is making a U-turn when it comes to her famously private home life.
They revealed: “I don’t think I’ve ever seen her like this before. There’s just a lightness to her now.
“She’s saying yes to things she might have dismissed in the past, especially with work but also in her real life off screen.
“She’s been really open, she’s not afraid to be emotional or be herself on TV – she’s just enjoying her life much more.
“She’s even letting people see more of her home life inside her house – she’s filmed a few big brand projects at home, which is quite a big step for her as she and Patrick were extremely private but I guess she is just more relaxed with herself, she’s not overthinking anything and just saying yes to everything that fills her cup.”
Whilst it’s been a long time since Cat was on the dating scene, the pal revealed that the TV star isn’t against getting back out there.
“She is open to dating again, definitely, but it has to feel right. She wouldn’t go on apps because that’s just not her style, well maybe Raya one day, she’s not totally closed off.
“She likes the idea of what’s out there, a bit of flirting, a bit of fun, without any pressure.”
Cat has even shared some content from her home, something she was fiercely private about whilst with PatrickAnd aside from looking ultra-glamorous, the star is said to be feeling ‘genuinely happy’ with her new chapterCredit: Getty
Describing the time with friends as “exactly what she needed”, our source says Cat’s nearest and dearest are helping her live to the fullest.
Whilst her close relationship with co-host Ben has also provided a helping hand, with the broadcaster’s ‘solid’ friendship providing laughs and a shoulder to cry on.
“You can see the difference in her too, she simply looks incredible. Not just glamorous, but genuinely happy,” said the insider.
They added: “It’s that kind of confidence you can’t fake, and people around her have really noticed it. She’s glowing, and I think a lot of that comes from feeling more in control of her own life again.
“It really does feel like a whole new chapter for Cat. She’s happier, more relaxed, and completely herself again and I think that’s why everything seems to be falling into place for her on and off screen.”
THERE’S bad news for Brits heading to Spain this summer as they might not be able to enjoy a drink in the sun on an outdoor terrace.
Under new rules, terraces in Spain will be forced to close when the weather gets too hot.
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The rules – that were campaigned for by hospitality unions – will apply when the State of Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issue an orange or red alert.
AEMET’s orange alert means there is a major risk such as severe storms, heavy snow or intense heat and then for a red alert, it is an extreme risk and includes extreme rainfall, life-threatening storms and dangerously high temperatures.
In the case of exceptionally hot weather, restaurants, bars and cafes have to close their terraces if there is not enough shade or cooling systems for staff.
The rules are likely to apply during the hottest hours of the day.
Areas across Spain reach high temperatures, especially during July and August, with some destinations reaching over 40C.
Even though closure of outdoor spaces is a last resort measure, if a bar, restaurant or cafe does not follow the new rules then it could face a fine of more than €50,000 (£43,326) in extreme cases.
For tourists, this could mean when temperatures reach high levels they won’t be able to grab a cold drink and sit on a restaurant’s terrace.
If you do want a drink though, you can still head inside as this is a shaded area.
As a result of the new rules, businesses across Spain are being encouraged to create different schedules for staff, with more breaks so they can stay hydrated.
French actor Tahar Rahim revealed how he and his co-star Izuka Hoyle were handcuffed together during filming for four months.
Speaking about the challenges of filming while attached to his co-star, The Serpent actor explained: “Being handcuffed to someone for four months filming could easily be a nightmare, but Izuka is a beautiful soul.
“We got on incredibly well and became real friends. She’s my partner in crime. It was a pleasure.”
The pair star as highly valued prisoner and mafia informant Tibor Stone (Rahim) and prison transport officer Amber Todd (Hoyle) respectively.
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After their prison convoy is attacked by the organised crime group that Stone is testifying against, Todd makes the split-second decision to handcuff herself to him and ensure he makes it to court for the trial in four days’ time.
However, Tibor isn’t just any informant; he’s a trained assassin and can take out many of the people sent to eliminate him before he can reveal all.
This required both Rahim and Hoyle to jointly perform stunts while their characters were handcuffed.
Addressing these challenges, the Golden Globe and BAFTA nominee explained: “Being handcuffed during big stunt sequences made things more complex.
“Our stunt team was brilliant and inventive, open to ideas and incredibly collaborative.
“Izuka and I had to constantly adapt and choreograph every movement together.
“Izuka has great instincts and she’s strong, which made everything easier. I decided to just flow with her and to treat it like a dance.
“For me, acting with a partner is a kind of dance: you listen, you feel, you respond.”
Meanwhile, Big Boys and Scottish BAFTA winner Hoyle explained: “Having them on made us realise just how close we were going to be to each other for such a long period of time, and that took some getting used to.
“Tahar is incredible. He’s physically fit, so in terms of us pushing each other, it was great.
“Our competitive streaks would come out… ‘We can go faster than that. We can do better than that. We can push harder than that.’ And we did. Everyone around us would be like, ‘F****g hell’.”
Prisoner will be released on Sky as a boxset on Thursday, April 30
Seoul Central District Court and Seoul High Court buildings in Seoul. Photo by Asia Today
April 23 (Asia Today) — A former Samsung Electronics manager was sentenced to 6 years and 4 months in prison on Thursday in a retrial over charges that he leaked key semiconductor technology to a Chinese competitor.
The Seoul High Court also fined the former manager, identified by his surname Kim, 200 million won ($145,000).
The ruling came after South Korea’s Supreme Court sent the case back for a new trial, saying lower courts had wrongly treated some acts involving trade secret disclosure as part of a single offense rather than separate crimes.
Kim was accused of illegally leaking Samsung Electronics’ 18-nanometer DRAM process technology, classified as a national core technology, to Chinese memory chipmaker ChangXin Memory Technologies, also known as CXMT. He was indicted and detained in 2024. He was also accused of leaking technical data belonging to another company.
The appeals court said Kim had illegally acquired Samsung trade secrets and used them in China, calling the offense extremely serious.
The court said violations involving industrial technology, trade secrets and national core technologies waste the massive time and money invested in developing DRAM technology, severely undermine fair business order and could damage national competitiveness.
Two other defendants tried in the same case also received sentences after parts of the earlier acquittals were overturned. A former executive at a partner company was sentenced to three months in prison, while a company employee received a two-month prison term suspended for one year.
In the first trial, Kim was sentenced to seven years in prison after the court found him guilty on most charges related to trade secret leaks. The second trial upheld much of that reasoning but reduced the sentence to six years, citing findings that he had not directly participated in leaking some of Samsung’s core technology.
The Supreme Court later reversed that judgment and ordered a retrial. It said obtaining or disclosing trade secrets among accomplices during the process of leaking technology overseas should be treated as distinct crimes.
The court said South Korea’s unfair competition law defines the acquisition, use and disclosure of trade secrets to third parties as independent offenses, and separately punishes the knowing use of such secrets.
On Tuesday, another former Samsung employee charged in a related case was sentenced to seven years in prison. Authorities said that case was uncovered during an additional investigation into Kim.
Sources have told BBC Sport that Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, Fulham head coach Marco Silva and former Dortmund boss Edin Terzic are under consideration as possible replacements for Rosenior.
Iraola, 43, announced last week that he will leave Bournemouth at the end of the season, while Silva’s contract at rivals Fulham is due to expire in July. Terzic, meanwhile, was under consideration by Tottenham to replace Thomas Frank when the Dane was sacked earlier this season.
Calum McFarlane will take over as interim manager until the season of the season.
McFarlane, who was Rosenior’s assistant, was in charge for a 1-1 draw against Manchester City and a defeat at Fulham in January after previous boss Enzo Maresca was sacked.
“As the club works to bring stability to the head coach position, we will undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment,” Chelsea added.
Rosenior won five of his 13 games in the Premier League and led the Blues to four victories in the FA Cup – all against lower-league opposition – to reach the semi-finals.
McFarlane’s first game in charge comes on Sunday when Chelsea face Leeds at Wembley for a place in the FA Cup final (15:00 BST).
Chelsea only appointed Liam Rosenior in January, but the FIFA Club World Cup holders have lost their last five games.
Published On 22 Apr 202622 Apr 2026
FIFA Club World Cup champions Chelsea have sacked their head coach Liam Rosenior following a run of five consecutive defeats.
The 41-year-old had only been appointed as Enzo Maresco’s permanent replacement in January.
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Rosenior, who started his managerial career at Derby County and Hull City in England, joined the west London club after two years in the French top flight with Strasbourg, where he won 51 of 63 matches.
Only 11 wins were secured in 23 games in charge of the Blues, however, and the recent run of losses also marked the first time the club had lost that number of games without scoring since 1912.
Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat at Brighton saw the side slip to seventh in the league, a hammer blow in the chance of qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
“Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment midway through the season,” Chelsea said in a statement.
“This has not been a decision the club has taken lightly, however recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season.”
Rosenior described the performance of his players in his final game in charge as “indefensible” and “unacceptable”.
Infrastructure damage caused by a fire suspected to have been set by a homeless person at Encino Franklin Fields in January has not been repaired and is still months away from being completed, according to an update from from Councilmember Imelda Padilla.
A tunnel damaged underneath a parking area has created issues with use of the fields and limited parking despite a temporary pedestrian bridge built to let people travel to softball fields used by teams from Harvard-Westlake, Sherman Oaks Notre Dame and Louisville. The teams have resumed using the fields.
Here’s the statement provided to The Times and attributed to Padilla: “Since the fire our office has continued to lead coordination efforts with the Bureau of Engineering, the Mayor’s Office, and the CAO, to move this project forward as quickly as possible. With the design phase complete, we are now actively working to identify and secure the necessary funding to begin construction.
“Once funding is secured, construction is expected to begin within approximately two months, and we are working to ensure the project is funded and underway within the current fiscal year. We are in ongoing communication with Encino Franklin Fields stakeholders to ensure their needs are reflected throughout this process. Student athletes, families, and community members deserve safe, functional facilities, and we are committed to delivering a coordinated and timely solution.”
Harvard-Westlake athletic director Matt LaCour released a statement as well: “We are grateful to the Council Office, Encino Franklin Fields, and all stakeholders for their continued commitment to supporting our student-athletes and broader community. Their leadership and collaboration are critical in ensuring there is a clear path forward to restore these facilities.
“These fields are more than just a place to play — they are a vital resource for students, families, and community members. We appreciate the shared urgency to restore full access for everyone who depends on them.”
An ITV newsreader has shared a rare insight into why he needed to take some time off.
An ITV presenter has opened up about going through a ‘breakdown’(Image: ITV)
An ITV News journalist has opened up about taking three months off work after suffering a “breakdown”.
Newsreader Tom Bradby took the break from work back in 2018, and now he is speaking candidly about that time.
He opened up about it to Radio Times as he discussed new ITV thriller Secret Service, which was adapted from his book and stars Gemma Arterton as MI6 officer Kate Henderson.
Tom said he wrote that particular novel faster than any of his other books, saying that when he reflects on the speed it “poured out” of him “it seems obvious that Kate – as a result of all the pressure heaped upon her – is skating on the edge of acute insomnia and some kind of breakdown”.
“And shortly after I finished it, this is exactly what happened to me,” he said. “I took three months off, rebooted and recovered.
“But when I read the book now, I do wonder at the way the character was a direct reflection of my own psychological state of mind.”
Tom has previously been open about his time off, revealing it happened after he developed insomnia, which resulted in what he said was an “addiction” to a sleeping pill.
Secret Service, which also stars Rafe Spall,was adapted from Tom’s best-selling novel and ITV has promised viewers “high-stakes drama” and “political intrigue”.
The five-part series explores the world of espionage against the backdrop of escalating tensions between the UK and Russia.
A synopsis for the show said: “The drama follows senior MI6 officer Kate Henderson (Gemma). On the surface, her life appears ordinary – a civil servant married to Stuart (Rafe) with two teenage children.
“However, to those who don’t know her well, Kate’s true role is heading the Russia Desk at the Secret Intelligence Service.
“When her undercover operations reveal alarming evidence that a high-ranking UK politician may be a Russian asset, Kate finds herself in a desperate race to uncover their identity.”
It continues: “As a brutal murder thrusts her team into the spotlight, Kate must navigate the dangerous world of espionage while trying to hold her family together and protect her reputation.”
Secret Service will launch on Monday April 27 at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Thursday faced federal lawmakers for the first time since September as he sought to defend a more than 12% proposed cut to his department’s budget and dodge arrows from angry Democrats along the way.
In his testimony before the House Ways and Means Committee, kicking off an expected sprint of seven budget hearings he’ll attend across congressional committees and subcommittees over the next week, Kennedy emphasized the administration’s work to reform dietary guidelines and crack down on waste, fraud and abuse.
Republicans on the committee praised Kennedy as a “breath of fresh air” and asked him to promote his department’s recent actions. Democrats, who have been furious over Kennedy’s sweeping overhaul of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, largely had a different agenda.
They needled Kennedy on what they viewed as the Trump administration’s hypocrisy on fraud, demanded to know why he was cutting budgets for various programs and slammed his efforts to pull back vaccine recommendations and messaging, which they said have caused unnecessary deaths.
Kennedy fired back, often raising his voice as he accused the Democrats of misrepresenting his work and past statements.
Here are three standout moments from Thursday’s hearing:
A standoff over measles
One heated exchange early in the hearing came between Kennedy and Rep. Linda Sanchez. The California Democrat decried recent measles outbreaks across the U.S. and asked Kennedy to answer for the fact that under his leadership, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention pulled back public health messaging supporting vaccination.
“As a mother, this horrifies me,” Sanchez said. “Did President Trump approve your decision to end CDC’s pro-vaccine public messaging campaign?”
Kennedy repeatedly refused to answer, saying first he wanted to respond to the “misstatements that you’ve made” and later praising the Trump administration’s record on preventing measles, although protections against the disease have eroded in some parts of the country as vaccination rates have dropped.
“That’s not answering my question,” Sanchez said as the two talked over each other.
But Sanchez also got Kennedy, a longtime anti-vaccine activist before he entered politics, to acknowledge that a 6-year-old who died of measles last year in West Texas could have potentially been saved with vaccination.
“Do you agree with the majority of doctors that the measles vaccine could have saved that child’s life in Texas?” she asked.
“It’s possible, certainly,” Kennedy said.
RFK Jr. denies talking about Black children being ‘re-parented’
A fight erupted between Kennedy and Rep. Terri Sewell, a Democrat from Alabama, when Kennedy vehemently denied making remarks he’d said in 2024.
The comments dated back to when Kennedy was a presidential candidate. On the “High Level Conversations” podcast last July, he said, “Psychiatric drugs — which every Black kid is now just standard put on Adderall, SSRIs, benzos, which are known to induce violence, and those kids are going to have a chance to go somewhere and get re-parented to live in a community where there’ll be no cellphones, no screens, you’ll actually have to talk to people.”
“Have you ever re-parented, or parented, I should say, a Black child?” Sewell asked, as her staff held up a poster featuring an abbreviated version of the quote.
“I don’t even know what that phrase means,” Kennedy said. “I’m not going to answer something I didn’t say.”
“You’re making stuff up,” he later claimed.
A recording of the podcast shows he made the comments during a conversation about free rehabilitation facilities he was proposing opening at the time in rural areas around the country.
Health and Human Services spokesperson Emily Hilliard said Kennedy before joining the administration was referring to spaces where young people facing alienation, mental health challenges and despair could get re-parented, which she said was a psychotherapy term for “developing the emotional regulation, discipline, boundaries, and self-worth that may not have been established in childhood.”
For Kennedy and his former party, civility is the exception
Kennedy spent most of his life as a Democrat, the scion of one of the nation’s most famous political families. Both Republicans and Democrats during the hearing began their remarks by expressing their admiration of Kennedy’s relatives, among them former President John F. Kennedy.
But again and again throughout Thursday’s hearing, the fraying of bonds between Kennedy and his former party was on full display as spiteful comments were passed back and forth.
The Health secretary grew defensive and visibly agitated. He repeatedly criticized Democratic lawmakers for not giving him a word in edgewise.
“They’ve all shut me up,” Kennedy said at one point. “They give a little speech that they can go and market, you know, for fundraising, and they don’t allow me to answer the question.”
On a few rare occasions, the exchanges were civil. One representative, Gwen Moore of Wisconsin, used humor to make that happen.
“I promise to give you easy, comfortable questions if you don’t yell at me and hurt my feelings,” she told Kennedy. He promised he wouldn’t.