administration 6 - The Latremie Post

Supreme Court Issues Emergency Order to Block Full SNAP Food Aid Payments

BOSTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Friday granted the Trump administration’s emergency appeal to temporarily block a court order requiring full funding of SNAP food aid payments amid the government shutdown, even though residents in some states have already received the funds.

A judge had given the Republican administration until Friday to make the payments through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). However, the administration appealed to an appeals court to suspend any court orders demanding spending beyond available funds in a contingency reserve, seeking to continue with planned partial SNAP payments for the month.

After a Boston appeals court declined to intervene immediately, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson issued an order late Friday pausing the requirement to distribute full SNAP payments. This pause will remain until the appeals court rules on whether to issue a more lasting suspension.

Justice Jackson, who handles emergency matters from Massachusetts, said her order will stay in effect until 48 hours after the appeals court decision, allowing the administration time to return to the Supreme Court if the appeals court refuses to act.

The SNAP program serves about one in eight Americans, primarily those with lower incomes.

### States That Have Issued SNAP Payments

Officials in more than half a dozen states confirmed that some SNAP recipients had already received full November payments on Friday. However, Jackson’s order may prevent other states from initiating the payments.

– **Wisconsin:** More than $104 million in monthly food benefits became available at midnight on electronic benefit cards for about 337,000 households. A spokesperson for Democratic Gov. Tony Evers said the state quickly accessed federal funds by coordinating with its electronic benefit card vendor in response to Thursday’s court order.

– **Oregon:** Gov. Tina Kotek, a Democrat, said state employees “worked through the night” to issue full November benefits, ensuring families relying on SNAP could buy groceries by Friday.

– **Hawaii:** The state had November’s payment information ready and submitted it quickly after Thursday’s court order but before any potential higher court pause, according to Joseph Campos II, deputy director of Hawaii’s Department of Human Services.

The Trump administration told the Supreme Court that these fast-moving states were “trying to seize what they could of the agency’s finite set of remaining funds” before any appeal could be filed, potentially to the detriment of other states’ allotments.

“Once those billions are out the door, there is no ready mechanism for the government to recover those funds,” Solicitor General D. John Sauer wrote in court documents.

Additional states including California, Kansas, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Washington also reported issuing full SNAP benefits on Friday, while others expected to distribute full benefits over the weekend or early next week. Some states are awaiting further federal guidance.

### Many SNAP Recipients Face Uncertainty

The ongoing court disputes have extended weeks of uncertainty for Americans with lower incomes. Individual SNAP recipients can receive up to nearly $300 monthly, while a family of four may qualify for up to nearly $1,000, though many receive less based on income.

For some SNAP participants, the timing of their benefits remained unclear. Jasmen Youngbey of Newark, New Jersey, for example, waited in line at a local food pantry Friday. As a single mother attending college, Youngbey relies on SNAP to feed her 7-month-old and 4-year-old sons. She said her account balance was at $0, explaining, “Not everybody has cash to pull out and say, ‘OK, I’m going to go and get this,’ especially with the cost of food right now.”

Later Friday, Youngbey reported receiving her monthly SNAP benefits.

### The Legal Battle Over SNAP Takes Another Twist

Due to the federal government shutdown, the Trump administration originally announced that SNAP benefits would not be available during November.

However, two judges ruled last week that the administration could not skip November’s payments entirely. One of those judges, U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell Jr., ordered full payments on Thursday.

In both rulings, judges required the government to tap an emergency reserve fund containing more than $4.6 billion to cover November SNAP benefits. They allowed some flexibility to use other funds to make full payments, which total between $8.5 billion and $9 billion monthly.

On Monday, the administration said it would not use additional funds beyond the emergency reserve, stating that it is Congress’s responsibility to appropriate funds for the program. The administration cited the need to reserve other funds to support child hunger assistance programs.

Thursday’s federal court order rejected the administration’s plan to cover only 65% of the maximum monthly benefit, a measure that could have resulted in some recipients receiving no benefits this month.

In court filings Friday, the administration argued that the judge overstepped legislative and executive authority by ordering full SNAP funding.

“This unprecedented injunction makes a mockery of the separation of powers,” Solicitor General Sauer told the Supreme Court.

### States Take Different Approaches to Food Aid

States are varying in their response to the federal uncertainty surrounding SNAP payments.

– **Colorado and Massachusetts:** SNAP participants may receive full November payments as early as Saturday.

– **New York:** Full benefits access is expected to start by Sunday.

– **New Hampshire:** Full benefits should be available by the weekend.

– **Arizona and Connecticut:** Full benefits are anticipated within the coming days.

– **North Carolina:** Officials distributed partial SNAP payments Friday, with full payments expected by the weekend.

– **Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, and North Dakota:** Partial November payments have been distributed.

Meanwhile, Delaware’s Democratic Gov. Matt Meyer announced the state used its own funds Friday to provide the first of what could be weekly relief payments to SNAP recipients amid federal uncertainty.

—

The situation remains fluid as courts and states navigate the intersecting challenges of funding SNAP benefits during the government shutdown. Millions of Americans rely on this critical food aid program for their daily meals.
http://www.cbn.com/api/urlredirect.aspx?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww1.cbn.com%2Fcbnnews%2Fpolitics%2F2025%2Fnovember%2Fsupreme-court-issues-emergency-order-to-block-full-snap-food-aid-payments

Cornell University to pay $60M in deal with Trump administration to restore federal funding

**Cornell University Agrees to $60 Million Settlement to Restore Federal Funding Amid Civil Rights Investigations**

*WASHINGTON (AP)* — Cornell University has agreed to pay $60 million and accept the Trump administration’s interpretation of civil rights laws in order to restore federal funding and end investigations into the Ivy League school.

Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff announced the agreement on Friday, highlighting that it upholds the university’s academic freedom while restoring more than $250 million in research funding withheld amid government probes into alleged civil rights violations.

He noted the government’s funding freeze had stalled research, disrupted careers, and threatened the future of academic programs at Cornell.

—

**Details of the Agreement**

The university will pay $30 million directly to the U.S. government and contribute another $30 million towards research initiatives supporting U.S. farmers. This latest agreement follows similar deals struck between the Trump administration and other elite colleges accused of tolerating antisemitism and promoting far-left ideologies.

Currently, Trump remains in a standoff with Harvard University and has recently pursued an incentive-based approach. This strategy offers preferential federal funding access to schools willing to align with his political agenda.

—

**University Response**

Kotlikoff stated that the agreement revitalizes Cornell’s partnership with the federal government “while affirming the university’s commitment to the principles of academic freedom, independence, and institutional autonomy that, from our founding, have been integral to our excellence.”

The six-page agreement resembles one signed by the University of Virginia last month. It is shorter and less prescriptive than agreements made with Columbia University and Brown University.

Cornell’s chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) commented that the deal “omits many of the worst provisions” found in agreements with other colleges. Still, the chapter expressed concerns that Cornell’s deal poses a threat to academic freedom and extends beyond legal requirements.

David Bateman, chapter president, said in an interview, “One of the major concerns with these agreements generally has been, if you make a deal with somebody when they’re just extorting you, well, that only encourages future extortion.”

—

**Compliance and Policy Changes**

Under the agreement, Cornell must comply with the government’s interpretation of civil rights laws concerning antisemitism, racial discrimination, and transgender issues.

A Justice Department memo directing colleges to abandon diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and transgender-friendly policies will serve as a training resource for Cornell’s faculty and staff.

Additionally, Cornell is required to provide extensive admissions data to verify that race is no longer considered in admissions decisions, following a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that ended affirmative action in admissions.

—

**Comments from Officials**

Education Secretary Linda McMahon described the deal as a “transformative commitment” focusing on “merit, rigor, and truth-seeking.” She called the reforms “a huge win in the fight to restore excellence to American higher education and make our schools the greatest in the world,” speaking on X (formerly Twitter).

Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized the importance of adherence to federal civil rights laws for colleges receiving federal funding. She stated, “Colleges that receive federal funding must fully adhere to federal civil rights laws and ensure that harmful DEI policies do not discriminate against students.”

Cornell’s president is required to personally certify compliance with the agreement each quarter. The deal is effective through the end of 2028.

—

**Context and Additional Information**

This agreement represents a middle ground on the controversial practice of schools making payments directly to the government to exit federal scrutiny. For comparison:

– Columbia University agreed to pay $200 million directly to the government.
– Brown University agreed to pay $50 million to state workforce organizations.
– The University of Virginia reached an agreement without any payment.

The $30 million agriculture investment will be distributed over three years, targeting programs that integrate artificial intelligence and robotics to support research aimed at reducing costs for U.S. farmers. Cornell, founded as a land-grant school, has deep historical ties to American agriculture.

—

**University’s Position and Concerns**

Kotlikoff was among hundreds of university presidents who signed an April letter opposing “unprecedented government overreach and political interference” from the Trump administration.

He emphasized that Cornell was not found in violation of federal law and that the agreement would preserve the campus’ independence. “In short, it recognizes our rights, as a private university, to define the conditions on our campuses that advance learning and produce new knowledge,” he wrote.

However, Cornell’s AAUP chapter expressed concerns over several provisions. They warned the agreement invites future federal intrusion through ongoing requirements to share enrollment data and conduct campus surveys on antisemitism. The chapter also criticized the $30 million payment to the government as “extortion plain and simple.”

—

*Copyright ©*
https://wsvn.com/news/us-world/cornell-university-to-pay-60m-in-deal-with-trump-administration-to-restore-federal-funding/

FBI informant jailed for Biden bribe claim released on medical furlough: lawyer

The FBI informant who sparked controversy by alleging that Joe and Hunter Biden took $10 million in bribes has been released from prison on medical furlough, his attorney told The Post.

Alexander Smirnov pleaded guilty in December and received a six-year prison sentence for fabricating the story about the then-US president, as well as a separate charge of tax evasion.

“Since Mr. Smirnov’s arrest, he has required crucial eye surgery which was denied to him for an extended period of time, which only exacerbated an already serious condition,” his lawyer David Chesnoff said. “We appreciate the Bureau of Prisons recognizing the incredibly serious nature of his condition and agreeing to allow him to receive the necessary and lengthy procedures he is receiving.”

Smirnov, 45, had been incarcerated at a federal facility in Los Angeles. Chesnoff did not share his precise release date.

A federal judge refused to free Smirnov in May, citing flight risk concerns, despite his legal team’s claims that he is now legally blind.

Smirnov’s tip about the Bidens involved the Ukraine-based energy company Burisma, which paid Hunter Biden a salary of up to $1 million to serve on its board. This occurred while Joe Biden, then Vice President, led the Obama administration’s policy toward Kyiv.

The allegation, brought to light by Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), ultimately undermined the House Republican case to impeach then-President Biden for his numerous documented interactions with his son Hunter and brother James Biden’s foreign patrons in countries including China, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine.

Health-related releases from prison typically last 30 days but can be extended. Lawyers for Smirnov intend to continue seeking medical furloughs.
https://nypost.com/2025/11/07/us-news/fbi-informant-jailed-for-biden-bribe-claim-released-on-medical-furlough-lawyer/

Democrat Breaks with Party, Backs Trump Admin on Air Traffic Reductions During Shutdown [WATCH]

Democratic Rep. Greg Stanton of Arizona is siding with the Trump administration over its decision to scale back air traffic operations amid the prolonged government shutdown, which has now entered its 38th day, as reported by Fox News.

The reduction in air traffic operations is expected to increase to 10% by November 14 if lawmakers fail to reach a deal to reopen the government. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that the order was necessary to “maintain the highest standards of safety” during ongoing staffing shortages caused by the shutdown.

Among the affected airports is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which serves Stanton’s district and is Arizona’s largest airport.

“Safety must always be the highest priority,” Stanton said in a statement Thursday evening. “The decision by Secretary Duffy to reduce flights at America’s 40 busiest airports is the right call for the safety of the flying public,” he added in a post on X.

“Now it’s critical that Republicans and Democrats get together and reach a bipartisan agreement on a plan to reduce health costs and end the shutdown. Arizona deserves better, and so do the hardworking professionals who keep our skies safe.”

The shutdown has furloughed thousands of federal employees, while essential personnel—including air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers—continue to work without pay. Many have been forced to take second jobs or call out sick, placing additional strain on the transportation system.

In Washington, where two major airports are also affected by the FAA’s order, Democratic leaders are holding firm on demands that any government funding deal include an extension of COVID-19-era enhanced Obamacare subsidies set to expire at the end of the year.

Republicans have rejected tying partisan health care provisions to the budget agreement, arguing that it would further delay reopening the government. Stanton was among the House Democrats who voted against the GOP’s funding proposal when it passed the House on September 19.

His support for the administration’s safety directive now places him at odds with his party’s leadership as bipartisan Senate negotiations continue without a clear resolution in sight.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/11/democrat-breaks-with-party-backs-trump-admin-on-air-traffic-reductions-during-shutdown-watch/

The FAA’s order to cut flights nationwide due to the government shutdown is set to take effect

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected 40 airports across more than two dozen states for mandatory flight reductions, according to a recent order. These include major hubs such as Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, and Charlotte, North Carolina. In several metropolitan areas—including New York, Houston, Chicago, and Washington—multiple airports will be affected, with ripple effects likely extending to smaller airports as well.

In anticipation of the FAA’s official order, airlines scrambled to adjust their schedules and began canceling flights Thursday. Travelers planning weekend and future trips waited nervously to learn if their flights would depart as scheduled. As of now, more than 780 flights have been canceled nationwide, according to FlightAware.

Delta Air Lines reported plans to cancel roughly 170 flights Friday, while American Airlines expects to cut 220 flights per day through Monday. The FAA stated that the reductions will start at 4% and ramp up to 10% by November 14. These measures will be in effect from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and impact all commercial airlines.

The FAA says the cutbacks are necessary to help relieve pressure on air traffic controllers, many of whom have been working without pay for more than a month. Many controllers are now working six-day weeks with mandatory overtime, leading to increasing callouts as financial strain and exhaustion mount.

“You can’t expect people to go in to work when they’re not getting a paycheck,” said Kelly Matthews of Flat Rock, Michigan, a frequent business traveler who has canceled most of her upcoming trips. “It’s not that they don’t want to do the job, but you can’t afford to pay for gas, your day care, and everything else.”

The order comes as the Trump administration increases pressure on Democrats in Congress to end the ongoing shutdown. Airlines have pledged to try to minimize the impact on customers, with some focusing on slashing routes to and from small and medium-sized cities.

Carriers are required to refund customers whose flights are canceled, but according to the Department of Transportation, they are not obligated to cover secondary costs such as food and hotel accommodations unless a delay or cancellation results from a factor within the airlines’ control.

Industry analyst Henry Harteveldt warned the reductions will “have a noticeable impact across the U.S. air transportation system.” The cuts could also slow package delivery services, as two affected airports—FedEx in Memphis, Tennessee, and UPS in Louisville, Kentucky—serve as major distribution centers. Notably, Louisville is also the site of this week’s deadly cargo plane crash.

*Associated Press journalists Hallie Golden in Seattle, Safiyah Riddle in Montgomery, Alabama, and Wyatte Grantham-Philips in New York contributed to this report.*
https://www.clickorlando.com/business/2025/11/07/the-faas-order-to-cut-flights-nationwide-due-to-the-government-shutdown-is-set-to-take-effect/

New Zealand Dollar drifts lower below 0.5650 as China’s Trade Surplus narrows in October

The NZD/USD pair is attracting some sellers near the 0.5620 level during the Asian trading hours on Friday. The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) has weakened against the US Dollar (USD) following a narrowing of China’s trade surplus in October and a disappointing New Zealand jobs report. Traders are also bracing for the flash U-Mich Consumer Sentiment survey scheduled for later on Friday.

Data released by the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China showed that China’s trade surplus narrowed to $90.07 billion in October, down from $90.45 billion previously. This figure fell short of the forecasted $95.60 billion. Meanwhile, exports rose by just 1.1% year-over-year in October, missing expectations for a 3.0% gain. Imports increased by 1.0% year-over-year, a sharp decline from 7.4% in September and below the market consensus of 3.2%.

The narrowing of China’s trade surplus could weigh on the New Zealand Dollar, often seen as a proxy for China, given that China is one of New Zealand’s major trading partners.

Adding to the NZD’s weakness, New Zealand’s unemployment rate climbed to 5.3% in the third quarter (Q3), marking its highest level since 2016. This weak jobs report has strengthened the case for a rate cut by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) this month, putting additional selling pressure on the NZD. Most economists now expect a 25 basis points (bps) reduction at the RBNZ’s final meeting of the year, scheduled for November 26.

On the US side, Challenger jobs data indicated a sharp increase in job cuts, suggesting a possible cooling in the US labor market. The report revealed that companies cut over 150,000 jobs in October, marking the biggest reduction for the month in more than 20 years.

Following the release of the Challenger jobs data, traders have ramped up bets on a rate cut in the US, which has weighed on the Greenback against the NZD. Trading in Fed funds futures now implies a 70% probability of a rate reduction at the Federal Reserve’s next meeting, up from 62% a day earlier, according to the CME FedWatch tool.

Overall, the combination of weaker Chinese trade data, a disappointing New Zealand jobs report, and signs of softening in the US labor market is influencing price action in the NZD/USD pair as traders adjust their expectations ahead of key upcoming economic releases.
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/finance/new-zealand-dollar-drifts-lower-below-0-5650-as-chinas-trade-surplus-narrows-in-october/

ICE Takes Down Dozens of Illegal Alien Truckers in Oklahoma, ‘Can’t Read Basic English’ [WATCH]

Federal immigration authorities arrested 70 illegal aliens during a two-day highway enforcement operation in Oklahoma, including 34 individuals operating commercial trucks without legal authorization, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The coordinated effort, known as “Operation Guardian,” took place in late October along the Interstate 40 corridor. This operation was conducted in partnership with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and marked the second major enforcement action in the state within a month.

This latest crackdown follows the Trump administration’s broader effort targeting illegal alien truck drivers operating under fraudulent or unlawful commercial licenses.

“For the second time in just the past month, the state of Oklahoma and ICE have banded together to bolster public safety along Oklahoma’s highways, identifying and apprehending illegal aliens who are in the country illegally and have been recklessly issued a commercial driver’s license by states like California, Illinois, and New Jersey,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Executive Associate Director Marcos Charles.

“Many of the illegal aliens arrested behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound tractor-trailer can’t even read basic English, endangering everyone they encounter on the roads,” Charles added.

ICE reported that out of the illegal alien truck drivers apprehended, 26 had obtained Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) from so-called sanctuary states such as California, Illinois, and New York. Another eight were found driving commercial vehicles without any CDL at all.

Authorities revealed that the drivers and passengers taken into custody included foreign nationals from countries such as China, Guatemala, India, and Uzbekistan. Several detainees had prior convictions for violent crimes and other serious offenses.

ICE credited the success of the operation to Oklahoma’s participation in the federal 287(g) program, which enables local law enforcement to collaborate directly with immigration authorities.

This operation comes just weeks after a similar effort in late September, when ICE and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol arrested over 100 illegal alien truck drivers during a three-day sweep along the same highway corridor. That earlier operation uncovered suspects allegedly involved in crimes including human smuggling, money laundering, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, and illegal reentry into the United States.

The recent focus on illegal alien truck drivers follows a series of deadly highway incidents involving individuals found to be in the country unlawfully and driving without adequate language skills or safety qualifications.

In August, Harjinder Singh, an Indian national living illegally in the U.S., allegedly made an illegal U-turn on a Florida turnpike, blocking all lanes and causing a collision that killed three people after his tractor-trailer crashed.

In another October case, Jashanpreet Singh, also an Indian national unlawfully residing in the country, was accused of driving under the influence of drugs when he crashed into multiple vehicles on a California highway, killing three people.

Investigations revealed that Harjinder Singh did not understand basic English or American traffic signage. Meanwhile, Jashanpreet Singh was able to upgrade his CDL in California just days before the crash, despite emergency Department of Transportation (DOT) rules restricting such approvals.

In response to these incidents, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy issued new regulations tightening CDL requirements for non-domiciled drivers and enforcing stricter English language proficiency standards for all commercial operators.

Additionally, the Department of Transportation has withheld millions in federal funding from California for allegedly issuing CDLs to illegal aliens in violation of federal law.

ICE officials stated that the Oklahoma operations are part of an ongoing national initiative aimed at identifying illegal alien truck drivers and removing them from the roads to enhance highway safety.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/11/ice-takes-down-dozens-of-illegal-alien-truckers-in-oklahoma-cant-read-basic-english-watch/

Sherrill says she has a mandate as New Jersey’s next governor and will focus on affordability

**New Jersey Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill Says She Has a Mandate to Make State More Affordable**

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill said Wednesday she believes she has a clear mandate to fulfill her campaign promises focused on making the state more affordable. The Democrat is also dialing back her criticism of Republican President Donald Trump—for now—as she sets up her administration amid Democratic victories in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and New York City.

Sherrill met with Gov. Phil Murphy, D-N.J., at his statehouse office, where they discussed the transition. When asked if her double-digit victory over Republican Jack Ciattarelli signaled a mandate, the congresswoman responded, “Yes, I do, a big one.”

While Sherrill did not directly address how her centrist victory in a state that had been shifting to the right aligns with the election of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani as New York City mayor—a candidate favored by the Democrats’ progressive wing—she remained focused on her core message of affordability.

“The reason I was so focused on affordability issues is because my communities are focused on affordability issues and how they’re going to be successful,” Sherrill said.

She has promised to issue an executive order to freeze monthly electricity bills and aims to expand a program for first-time homebuyers.

During the campaign, Sherrill strongly criticized Trump’s tariffs, describing them as “a worldwide extortion racket,” and positioned him as a key foil in the race. Although she has not yet spoken to Trump, she expressed willingness to collaborate on bringing federal funds into the state—particularly for the Gateway rail tunnel project connecting New Jersey with Manhattan. The Trump administration froze funds for the project amid the government shutdown.

In defeating Ciattarelli, Sherrill flipped counties that had supported Republicans in the previous year’s presidential and gubernatorial races. She also performed strongly among nonwhite voters, winning about 7 in 10, according to the AP Voter Poll, which surveyed more than 4,000 New Jersey voters.

This is a promising sign for Democrats who have been trying to regain support among nonwhite voters after Trump made gains in this demographic in 2024. Sherrill captured about half of the state’s white voters, who comprise 7 in 10 voters overall.

The poll found that approximately 9 in 10 Black voters supported Sherrill, along with about 8 in 10 Asian voters. Hispanic voters were more divided, but around two-thirds favored Sherrill, while only about 3 in 10 voted for Ciattarelli.

Last year, Trump made inroads with Black and Hispanic communities in New Jersey, narrowing the Democratic margin from 16 percentage points in 2020 to just 6 points.

The poll also highlighted economic messaging: Sherrill won about 7 in 10 voters who said their family’s finances were “falling behind,” a group comprising roughly one-quarter of voters.

“What I saw was that our message was resonating,” Sherrill said.

___

Associated Press writer Linley Sanders in Washington contributed to this report.
https://ktar.com/national-news/sherrill-says-she-has-a-mandate-as-new-jerseys-next-governor-and-will-focus-on-affordability/5771071/

Death toll in fiery UPS plane crash rises to 9, with more than a dozen still unaccounted for

**Death Toll in Louisville UPS Plane Crash Rises to Nine, Search Efforts Continue**

The death toll from Tuesday night’s horrific UPS plane crash in Louisville has risen to at least nine, with more casualties expected as search efforts continue, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced Wednesday morning.

“This is going to be a tough day for Kentucky after yesterday’s deadly plane crash,” Gov. Beshear wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “The number of those lost has now risen to at least nine, with the possibility of more.” He added that, at a reunification center, 16 families have already reported loved ones still unaccounted for.

A “significant” search and rescue operation was underway overnight and continues this morning, according to Beshear. His office is scheduled to provide an update during a press conference at 11:30 a.m. ET.

**Tragedy Strikes at Muhammed Ali International Airport**

The accident involved UPS Flight 2976, which was carrying three crew members and 50,000 gallons of jet fuel. The Hawaii-bound plane reportedly lifted off from the runway with one wing on fire before flipping on its side and crashing to the ground at Louisville’s Muhammed Ali International Airport around 5:15 p.m. Shocking video from the scene shows the aircraft exploding in a massive fireball.

**Community and Company Respond**

In a statement, UPS said it was “terribly saddened” by the accident and offered “heartfelt thoughts” to everyone involved. “We will work tirelessly with state and local authorities on response efforts,” the global shipping and logistics company stated.

Authorities urge anyone with missing family members connected to the incident to contact the reunification center for assistance. Updates will continue as new information emerges from ongoing search and investigation efforts.
https://nypost.com/2025/11/05/us-news/death-toll-in-fiery-ups-plane-crash-in-louisville-rises-to-9-with-more-than-a-dozen-still-unaccounted-for/

CNN’s Van Jones among those raising alarm at Mamdani’s instant ‘character switch’ after winning power

Lefty luminary Van Jones was among those raising alarm at Democratic socialist mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s rage-filled victory speech, noting his instant “character switch” upon winning power.

A roaring Mamdani wasted no time claiming a mandate for his potentially budget-busting progressive agenda, even taunting former President Donald Trump as he rallied his fired-up supporters soon after Tuesday night’s victory.

Jones was quick to point out live on CNN that the 34-year-old’s triumphant demeanor was a far cry from the cool, calm, and collected candidate seen on the campaign trail.

“I think he missed an opportunity. I think the Mamdani that we saw on the campaign trail, who was a lot more calm, who was a lot warmer, who was a lot more embracing, was not present in that speech,” Jones told a post-election CNN panel.

“I think his tone was sharp. I think he was using the microphone in a way that he was almost yelling. That’s not the Mamdani that we’ve seen on TikTok and in the great interviews and stuff like that.”

“I felt like it was a little bit of a character switch here,” he continued, noting that the once “warm, open, embracing guy” had seemingly vanished.

The Democratic pundit, who served as an adviser in the Obama administration, suggested Mamdani would have been better off trying to appease New Yorkers who are wary of his agenda.

“There are a lot of people trying to figure out, ‘Can I get on this train with him or not? Is he going to include me? Is he going to be more of a class warrior even in office?’ I think he missed a chance tonight to open up and bring more people into the tent,” Jones said.

“He’s very young and he just pulled off something very, very difficult. I wouldn’t write him off, but I think he missed an opportunity to open himself up tonight and I think that that will probably cost him going forward.”

Mamdani, who will be New York City’s first Muslim, first South Asian, and first socialist mayor, declared victory about two hours after polls closed.

The Democrat carried 50.4% of the votes to independent candidate Andrew Cuomo’s 42%, with nearly 98% of precincts reporting, according to the city Board of Elections.

“The conventional wisdom would tell you that I am far from the perfect candidate. I am young, despite my best efforts to grow older. I am Muslim. I am a democratic socialist. And most damning of all, I refuse to apologize for any of this,” Mamdani declared during his 20-minute victory speech.

“New York, tonight you have delivered a mandate for change, a mandate for a new kind of politics, a mandate for a city that we can afford, and a mandate for a government that delivers exactly that.”
https://nypost.com/2025/11/05/media/cnns-van-jones-among-those-raising-alarm-at-zohran-mamdanis-instant-character-switch-after-winning-nyc-mayoral-race/