Prominent US Democrat urges Biden to drop presidential bid
As the most prominent representative of the Democratic Party, Congressman Adam Schiff called on President Joe Biden to renounce his bid for a second term on Wednesday. In a statement for the "Los Angeles Times," Schiff urged Biden, "to pass the baton." He expressed doubts that the 81-year-old could defeat his Republican rival Donald Trump, who poses a threat to "the very foundation of our Democracy."
19:08 Democrats eyeing early Biden nomination in early August
Leading US Democrats aim to finalize plans for an early endorsement of President Joe Biden as the Democratic candidate for the November election. A virtual vote is set to take place in the first week of August, according to a letter to committee members responsible for setting the rules for the mid-August planned nominating convention. The letter was authored by the co-chairs of the committee, Bishop Leah D. Daughtry and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. The plans will be discussed at a committee meeting on Friday and voted on in the coming week. Originally, the Democrats had announced in May that they intended to designate Biden as their candidate through a virtual call. The reason was scheduling conflicts in the state of Ohio, where candidates had to register by August 7 to appear on the ballots. However, the Democrats do not convene for their nominating convention until August 19-22.
18:30 Trump supporters getting 'fist' tattoos
For Trump supporters, the face of the former US President seems to be a veritable cult icon. He adorns jackets, hats, leggings, and even their skin since the attempted assassination. Only a few hours after the photo of the raised fist was taken, his supporters already have it tattooed.
17:59 Third day in Milwaukee: Only Trump's most loyal supporters allowed on stage
The third day of the Republican Party convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is eagerly anticipated for J.D. Vance's speech. In addition to the newly nominated Republican vice presidential candidate, his wife Usha Vance, Trump's son Donald Trump Jr., and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum will also make appearances. According to CNN News, representatives from Texas, South Carolina, and Florida are also scheduled to speak. A veteran, an Israeli hostage of Hamas, and a Project 2025 employee are also expected to appear. Vance's speech is scheduled for 7:00 PM (local time). The third day is themed "Making America Strong Again" (America, once again strong).
17:11 Ex-Trump advisor Navarro released from prison
The former advisor to ex-US President Donald Trump, Peter Navarro, was released from prison on Wednesday after serving a four-month sentence for contempt of Congress. It is expected that the 75-year-old, who was held in a federal prison in Miami, Florida, will travel to the Republican Party convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is listed as one of the speakers at the convention. The economist Navarro was sentenced to four months in prison for contempt of Congress. The reason was his refusal to testify before the January 6th Congressional Investigative Committee and to produce the requested documents.
16:37 Chancellor Scholz appreciates Vance's "Hillbilly Elegy"
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz of the SPD has read Vance's autobiographical work "Hillbilly Elegy" "recently," says Government Spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit in Berlin. "He really enjoyed it." What particularly impressed the Chancellor was the portrayal of the "aspirational spirit in an America that is being tested by harsh challenges." At the Munich Security Conference in February, Scholz approached the US Senator about the book, which then led to a brief conversation, according to the spokesperson further. Hebestreit adds restrictively: "One must always separate the author and the work from each other and also the political positions that J.D. Vance as Senator from Ohio holds." The spokesperson refuses to elaborate on the criticisms of the Chancellor.
15:53 "Project 2025": Critics warn of Trump's "alarming" agenda
At their convention in Milwaukee, the US Republicans adopted a relatively moderate program for their standards. However, critics of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump fear that, upon his return to the White House, it will not be the party program but rather a much more radical and well-known paper called "Project 2025" that will serve as the basis for his government dealings. The 887-page strong document comes from the ultraconservative think tank Heritage Foundation. It contains detailed plans for a complete overhaul of the government apparatus and a drastic conservative turn. The president of the Heritage Foundation, Kevin Roberts, spoke at the beginning of July about a revolution already in motion. Critics see in "Project 2025" a blueprint for a dismantling of democracy and an authoritarian rule. Constitutional lawyer Erwin Chemerinsky of the University of California in Berkeley described the project to Newsweek magazine as "deeply alarming." The plans point to a "significant movement towards an authoritarian government."
15:18 Harris accuses Vance of betraying the country
US Vice President Kamala Harris expressed her views on J.D. Vance's nomination as the Republican vice presidential candidate in a video she posted on her X-Account. She questions his loyalty: "He will only be loyal to Trump, not to our country," she writes. If he comes to power, he would implement the ultraconservative manifesto "Project 2025." "We won't allow that," Harris continues.
14:59 US Homeland Security Ministry investigates Trump attack
The Inspector General of the United States Department of Homeland Security has initiated an investigation into the planning of the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, in the US state of Pennsylvania. The US Homeland Security Ministry announced this on its website. The investigation is listed there as an "ongoing project." The investigation by the US Homeland Security Ministry differs from the one announced by President Biden on Sunday.
14:27 Tech Giants from the Valley support Trump
More and more tech giants from Silicon Valley are rallying to the side of the right-wing populist presidential candidate Donald Trump - led by Elon Musk. The billionaire plans to support the Republican campaign with a reported monthly $45 million (approximately €41 million), according to a newspaper report. Besides Musk, other less well-known tech giants also support Trump: for various reasons. The Trump supporters from Silicon Valley are predominantly male and white.
13:53 Kremlin has low expectations for another Trump presidency in the USAccording to Presidential spokesperson Dmitri Peskov of the Kremlin, Russia harbors modest expectations for a possible second presidency of Donald Trump in the US. "As for the relationship between (Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump), nothing good was done for Russia under Trump," he told journalists. "On the contrary, there were more restrictions. However, there was a dialogue. This can be considered a positive element."
13:18 Spahn expects Trump win, Chancellor must have an offerCDU politician Jens Spahn is following the Republican Party convention in Milwaukee. He expects a victory for Donald Trump. In an interview with ntv, he discussed why the nomination of hardliner J.D. Vance could be a chance and how Germany should prepare.
12:34 Wounded Trump supporters in stable conditionThe shooter's bullet hit Donald Trump on the ear. However, three people in the audience were hit much closer. One father died on the spot, and it was reported that the other two men were in critical condition. Now, "Bild" newspaper reports that both men are doing better, and their health condition is stable.
11:57 Big Dog takes over Republican Party conventionWest Virginia Governor Jim Justice's popularity, in part, can be attributed to his dog, according to analysts. For an enthusiastic reception, "Babydog" made an appearance at the Republican Party convention.
11:05 Iconic Trump-Fist shirt is a hit among RepublicansWith a bloody face and a defiant fist raised before the US flag: The historic image of Donald Trump after the attack in Butler has been immortalized on fan shirts within fewer than 72 hours. T-shirts with the image and the inscription "MAGA Movement Can't Be Stopped" (in German: "The MAGA movement cannot be stopped") have been sold at the Republican Party convention in Milwaukee since yesterday.
10:58 Republicans rally against Kamala HarrisThe Republican Party convention already shows how the party plans to work against Vice President Kamala Harris if Joe Biden decides not to run again. Harris was responsible for cooperation with Central America to limit illegal migration. Senators accused Harris on stage of opening the borders for "terrorists and criminals" and welcoming an "invasion from the Third World." Harris was repeatedly referred to as the "Border Queen." Politico magazine sees this as a preview of the campaign strategy against Harris if she becomes Biden's presidential candidate.
10:18 Security heightened for Trump due to alleged Iranian assassination plotAccording to US media reports, heightened security measures have been in place for Donald Trump for weeks due to alleged indications of an Iranian assassination plot. CNN and other media reported that there is no connection to the attack on Trump on Saturday. The Iranian government strongly denies the reports.
09:49 Navidi: Democratic victory is "our only salvation"BeyondGlobal expert Sandra Navidi warns forcefully against another Trump presidency and the transformation plans of the think tanks close to him. According to the financial expert, the hollowing out of the rule of law and an international alliance of authoritarian leaders are at stake.
09:12 DAX suffers from Trump's "America First" already
In contrast to the US market, the DAX is still stuck in consolidation mode. According to market participants, it is suffering from Donald Trump's economic policies. If he is re-elected, Trump intends to impose high tariffs on imports from China, but also on all other imports. "Companies should invest directly in the US and create jobs there," one market participant said, clarifying "America first." Trump also demanded from the US Federal Reserve not to lower interest rates before the election.
08:39 Trump: Taiwan should pay US for defense
Donald Trump expressed a business-like attitude regarding US support for Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack. "I think Taiwan should pay us for the defense. We're not just anything, we're an insurance company. Taiwan doesn't give us anything," Trump told Bloomberg Businessweek when asked if he would defend Taiwan against China. China could attack Taiwan. However, China won't do that, "because they don't want to lose all those chip factories," the former US president added. "I wouldn't feel so secure in their place, but think about it: Taiwan took our chip business away from us, aren't we stupid?"
08:02 Iran denies threatening Trump
The Iranian mission to the United Nations refuted reports of threats against former Republican President Donald Trump. "These are baseless and politically motivated allegations," a spokesperson for the Iranian UN mission in New York said. For the Iranians, Trump is a war criminal who ordered the killing of Iranian General Ghassem Soleimani in 2020. "Trump must be held accountable and punished for this, but the Iran has decided to take the legal route," the spokesperson added. The Secret Service reportedly strengthened security measures for Trump in recent weeks due to threats from Iran, according to media reports from US broadcasters CNN and MSNBC.
07:38 Heritage Foundation think tank wants to dissolve weather service
For a potential Trump victory, the right-conservative think tank "Heritage Foundation" has developed an ultraconservative program to be implemented during his tenure: The authors oppose abortion, demand a pornography ban, and advocate for measures that promote "marriage, work, motherhood, fatherhood, and the nuclear family." The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which includes the weather service or the US Hurricane Center, should be dissolved, as it is considered "one of the main driving forces of the climate change alarm industry." They plan to replace most federal employees and bureaucrats with political appointees. The power of the president should be expanded, and the Congress weakened.
07:12 Trump: Fed should not lower interest rates before election
Donald Trump expressed opposition to a rate cut by the US Federal Reserve before the election. "That's something they know they shouldn't do," the ex-president said in an interview with Bloomberg Businessweek. The financial industry expects the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates twice before the end of the year, with one rate cut - and that's crucial - before the elections. A rate cut in September is already widely anticipated in the market.
06:36 Among Democrats, 39 percent want Biden to end his campaign
In a survey conducted by Reuters/Ipsos and completed on Tuesday, 39 percent of Democrats expressed the view that President Joe Biden should end his campaign. Many Democrats fear that a poor showing by Biden at the elections on November 5 could cost the party the White House and both chambers of Congress. This could set the stage for a second Trump administration, allowing them to push through their political agenda almost without opposition from the Democrats. It is being speculated that the Democratic Party might rally around Vice President Kamala Harris as a new candidate if Biden steps down.
05:17 Biden calls for assault weapons ban
US President Joe Biden has once again advocated for a ban on assault weapons. During a campaign event in Las Vegas, Nevada, Biden referred to the attack on Trump, stating that the assailant used an AR-15. "It's time to ban them," Biden said. Attempts to enact stricter gun laws have been ongoing for years, but they have consistently failed, largely due to Republican opposition and the fierce resistance of the gun lobby.
04:41 DHS inspector general launches investigation into Trump attack
The Inspector General of the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has initiated an investigation into the attack on Trump. According to an official statement on the Inspector General's website, the evaluation of the Secret Service's handling of security at the July 13, 2024 event is underway. The investigation aims to provide insights into whether the security measures were adequate and if there were any potential oversights.
04:13 Former rival Haley endorses Trump at Republican convention
Nikki Haley, a former rival, made her stance clear at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. "Let me make one thing clear: Donald Trump has my full support. Period," the 52-year-old said, receiving a mix of cheers and boos. Haley's declaration of support was met with applause when she directly endorsed Trump at the beginning of her speech. Trump himself listened to the speech in the convention hall, having arrived earlier than anticipated.
03:15 Shooter ordered 'dangerous material'
The young man who shot Trump is reported to have received several packages in the months leading up to the incident, some of which were marked with the warning "dangerous material." The New York Times reported that such a label was found in the possession of the suspect by the Federal Police. Officers discovered a bomb in his home and two more in his car, which was parked near the event site. The FBI subsequently examined his mailing history.
02:24 Trump: Taiwan should pay US for defense
Donald Trump expressed reservations about US support for Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack. "I think Taiwan should pay us for defense. We're not just an insurance company. Taiwan doesn't give us anything," Trump told Bloomberg Businessweek in response to a question about defending Taiwan against China. China could easily attack Taiwan, but "they won't do that because they don't want to lose all those chip factories," Trump added. The interview was reportedly conducted at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on June 25.
01:18 Harris and Vance discuss TV debate
After J.D. Vance was nominated as the Vice Presidential candidate for the Republicans, he and Vice President Kamala Harris exchanged words regarding a TV debate. According to insiders, the two top politicians are working on agreeing on the conditions for a TV debate, reports indicate. Harris has agreed to participate in a debate on CBS News, either on July 23 or August 13. These dates had already been agreed upon by Trump and Biden two months ago. However, the Trump team is reportedly pushing for a debate on Fox News. Biden's team might not agree to this.
00:39 Trump phones widow of slain viewer
Donald Trump phoned the widow of slain viewer Corey Comperatore. "He was very kind and said he would call me again in the coming days and weeks," Helen Comperatore wrote on social media. She told Trump that her husband "left this world as a hero and was taken up by God." According to Comperatore's sister, Biden also sought the conversation, but the family declined.
23:27 Democratic resistance to early Biden nomination
There is resistance among US Democrats in the House of Representatives to plans by the party leadership to nominate President Biden as the candidate for the November election before the scheduled nomination convention on August 19-21. A group of congressional representatives expressed "serious concerns" in a draft letter about the plan to formally nominate the incumbent president through a virtual vote on July 21. It was stated in the writing, which the representatives have not yet signed, that "it would be a terrible idea to suppress the debate over Biden's candidacy with an early vote." "It could deeply undermine the morale and unity of the Democrats."
22:49 Democratic congressman warns of massive losses – due to Biden
The democratic congressman Adam B. Schiff warned during a private meeting with donors on the previous Saturday that his party would suffer massive losses if Biden remained the candidate. The "New York Times" reported this. If Biden remained, he would not only lose to former President Donald Trump, but he could also significantly hinder other democratic candidates, causing the party to likely lose the Senate and miss the chance to gain control of the House of Representatives, according to Schiff at a benefit event in New York. "I think if he's our candidate, we'll lose," Schiff said during the meeting, according to someone who had access to a recording of the event.
22:09 Ex-Minister Carson calls Democrats 'useful idiots'
The former US Housing and Urban Development Secretary, Ben Carson, accused Democrats of not understanding the concept of unity. America's enemies are playing a "long-term game by dividing Americans on the basis of race, age, income, gender, religion, and political affiliation," Carson said on CNN. "Someone needs to be the adult in the room. I don't expect the other side to come to that conclusion. They will make some lip service confessions," he added. "There are many on their side who are what Lenin called 'useful idiots.' They don't even realize they are hurting themselves."
21:39 Spahn: Scholz should talk to Trump
German Vice-Chancellor and Union Friction Jens Spahn urges Chancellor Olaf Scholz to establish contact with Donald Trump. "It would be in Germany's interest for Olaf Scholz to report to Trump after the attack," Spahn tells "Spiegel": "I hope he understands that." A personal relationship is essential in politics, according to Spahn, who advocates for an approach to Trump. "I'm sure Donald Trump notices who's reaching out to him." Spahn states that he doesn't like many things about the Republican Party in general, including Trump's style and demeanor. "But does that mean we have to set up a dictatorship?" It's not in Germany's interest, "to present Donald Trump as a potential next president of our most important ally as an obstacle."
21:08 Possible Iranian plot against Trump?
The US has received indications of an Iranian plot to assassinate former President Donald Trump, CNN reports, citing sources. The US intelligence and Trump's campaign team were informed about it before the rally on the previous Saturday, according to a CNN reporter, citing a US national security official. However, there is no evidence that the young man who shot at Trump during the rally and injured him was involved in the Iranian plot, CNN adds.
20:34 Trump spreads misinformation about vaccines
Donald Trump reportedly spread misinformation about vaccines during a phone call with independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. CNN reports, citing a video that Bobby Kennedy III, Robert F. Kennedy's son, briefly posted on social media. In the video, Trump discusses the number of vaccine doses given to children and claims that babies change radically after receiving a large number of vaccines. "When you give a baby a vaccine with 38 active ingredients that looks like it's for a horse and not for a 10 or 20-pound baby, then the baby suddenly starts to change dramatically," Trump says. "I've seen that happen too often."
20:19 Biden campaign resumes advertising after pause following the attack
President Joe Biden's campaign team plans to resume advertising this week, according to information from Reuters. Two sources familiar with the matter confirmed this. The Biden campaign declined to comment. Biden had suspended his campaign ads following the attack on Trump.
19:49 Secret Service: Police were in the building from which the shooter fired
Police from a local department were in the building from which the shooter fired at Donald Trump on Saturday, according to an interview with ABC News by Secret Service Director Kimberly A. Cheatle. "There were local police officers in the building - there were local police officers in the area who were responsible for the external perimeter of the building," Cheatle says. A spokesperson for the Secret Service adds that the local police had a collection point in the building.
- Despite Congressman Schiff's calls for President Joe Biden to step down for the 2024 United States Presidency Election, leading Democrats are pushing for an early endorsement of Biden as their candidate for the November election.
- As the Republican Party gears up for the 2024 United States Presidency Election, President Joe Biden's potential rivals, such as former President Donald Trump, pose significant threats to "the very foundation of our Democracy."
