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Minnesota police settle lawsuit with L.A. Times reporters after attack

In a chilling incident that shook the journalism community, two Los Angeles Times reporters were viciously attacked by the Minnesota State Patrol while covering protests in response to the murder of George Floyd. The journalists, Carolyn Cole and Molly Hennessy-Fiske, were caught in the crossfire of law enforcement’s aggressive tactics despite clearly identifying themselves as members of the press. The harrowing confrontation led to injuries for both reporters, with Cole suffering a corneal abrasion in her eye and Hennessy-Fiske being bloodied by blunt projectiles.

The incident, which took place on May 30, 2020, during a curfew in Minneapolis and St. Paul, was a clear violation of the reporters’ 1st Amendment rights. The state troopers’ unwarranted aggression towards the journalists, who were simply doing their jobs to report on the unfolding protests, sparked outrage and condemnation from media organizations across the country.

After a long legal battle, the two veteran journalists have reached a settlement with the state of Minnesota for $1.2 million. While the state did not admit wrongdoing in the agreement, the substantial sum underscores the severity of the attack and the importance of upholding press freedom in the face of authoritarian tactics.

Cole and Hennessy-Fiske, who have dedicated their careers to covering conflicts and crises around the world, expressed relief that justice had been served through the settlement. They emphasized the significance of the ruling in safeguarding the rights of journalists to report without fear of unwarranted violence or interference.

The reporters’ courage and resilience in the face of such adversity serve as a reminder of the vital role that journalists play in holding those in power accountable and shining a light on injustices. The settlement not only provides a measure of justice for Cole and Hennessy-Fiske but also sends a powerful message to law enforcement agencies that attacks on press freedom will not be tolerated.

As the dust settles on this chapter in their careers, Cole and Hennessy-Fiske can take solace in knowing that their bravery and perseverance have not gone unnoticed. The outcome of their lawsuit serves as a beacon of hope for other journalists facing similar challenges and reinforces the importance of defending the principles of a free and independent press in a democratic society.

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Kevin McCarthy, former House Speaker, seeks revenge

Ousted House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is out for vengeance. After being voted out as House speaker, McCarthy left office at the end of 2023. Now, he is traveling the country giving speeches, appearing on TV, and plotting revenge against those who orchestrated his downfall.

Eight Republican lawmakers joined with Democrats in toppling McCarthy, marking the first time a House leader has been voted out. Two of the Republicans who voted against him are retiring, while three others are facing strong primary challenges. McCarthy is working behind the scenes to ensure their defeat, using his political connections and resources to support their opponents.

McCarthy’s main nemesis in this battle for vengeance is Rep. Matt Gaetz, who was instrumental in McCarthy’s ouster. During a recent appearance at Georgetown University, McCarthy accused Gaetz of pushing him out of the speakership due to an ethics complaint involving a 17-year-old girl. Gaetz denied the allegations and called McCarthy a liar.

Despite the turmoil of his speakership lasting less than nine months, McCarthy feels liberated and focused on campaigns and elections, which have always been his forte. He remains close to lawmakers he recruited and maintains a vast donor network built over years as a top GOP strategist.

McCarthy’s top priority is to secure Republican control of the House in the upcoming elections. He is also focused on reelecting key members, such as Young Kim, Michelle Steel, and Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who have diversified the House GOP.

At a recent seminar on American democracy, McCarthy displayed both charm and self-deprecation. He broke with former President Trump by supporting aid for Ukraine and acknowledging Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election. However, McCarthy also dodged questions and made false equivalences, drawing criticism from his detractors.

Despite speculation about a second Trump administration, McCarthy has not shown interest in becoming an influence peddler. Instead, he prefers working in the campaign realm, where his skills and talents are best utilized. McCarthy’s focus is on electing viable Republican candidates and achieving payback against those who pushed him out of power.

In conclusion, Kevin McCarthy is on a mission for vengeance, using his political savvy and resources to take down his opponents and secure Republican victories. His determination and focus on campaigns and elections show that McCarthy is not one to back down easily, making him a force to be reckoned with in the world of politics.