Latest news with #Ansari
New York Post
10 hours ago
- Politics
- New York Post
House Dems spent more than $7K in campaign funds on El Salvador trips for Kilmar Abrego Garcia — despite some claiming they paid ‘out of their own pocket'
WASHINGTON — House Democrats dropped more than $7,000 in campaign money this spring on air travel to El Salvador — and a reservation at a swanky Hilton hotel — despite some telling the public they were paying for trips to visit alleged foreign gang member Kilmar Abrego Garcia 'out of their own pocket.' Reps. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.), Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.) and Maxine Dexter (D-Ore.) arrived in San Salvador April 21 to 'pressure the Trump Administration' for the release of Abrego Garcia, an alleged MS-13 member, according to a joint statement. Garcia's congressional campaign spent $1,981.99 on Taca International Airlines, a Salvadoran carrier, for travel a few days earlier, on April 17 — and another $501.53 for 'event space rental' at the Hilton San Salvador on April 29, Federal Election Commission (FEC) filings show. Frost's campaign shelled out $1,362.49 for travel on Avianca, a Latin American airline that bears El Salvador's flag, and $967.43 for travel on Volaris, a low-cost Mexican airline — both of which were recorded May 8, a week or so after their trip. Ansari's campaign reported the highest total spending on travel with $2,616.45 forked over to Avianca Airlines in four separate tranches between April 17 and 21. Dexter's campaign paid $1,315.44 for travel on Taca Airlines April 18. 6 AFP via Getty Images None of the lawmakers listed any lodging expenses in El Salvador, according to a Post review of the FEC filings, and all except for Garcia claimed they personally footed the bill for the travel costs. 'The congresswoman paid for her own flights and hotel with her own money, and the campaign paid for a campaign volunteer with campaign funds,' noted an Ansari rep, clarifying that no Members' Representational Allowance (MRA) funds were used. Ansari's office previously told a Phoenix-based NBC affiliate that the congresswoman 'paid for the trip out of her own pocket.' A Garcia spokesperson previously confirmed to The Post that the congressman 'paid for the trip through his personal campaign funds.' 6 Getty Images A rep for Dexter had said in April their member self-funded the flight. Frost's reps told Politico no MRA funds, which are provided by US taxpayers, were used. Travel expenses exceeding $1,000 are considered in-kind contributions to campaigns when recorded by a candidate, campaign staffer or volunteer, according to the FEC. 6 REUTERS Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-Md.) made a separate visit to El Salvador to try to meet with Abrego Garcia, a former Maryland resident who resided in his district, but only spent $291.25 in campaign funds for the jaunt. 'Congressman Ivey did not use MRA or taxpayer funds for his trip to El Salvador. In accordance with House Administration and FEC guidelines, his principal campaign committee covered the travel costs associated with fulfilling his official Congressional oversight responsibilities,' said Ivey's communications director Ramón Korionoff in a statement. 'All expenses were properly reported to the FEC in full compliance with federal disclosure requirements. Congressman Ivey believes it's essential to understand the real-world impact of U.S. immigration and security policies firsthand, and he remains committed to conducting his work with transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility.' 6 Notably, a review of filings for Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) — the only Democrat to be granted a meeting with Abrego Garcia in what he later claimed was staged by Salvadoran officials for an embarrassing photo-op with margaritas — do not show any campaign spending for similar travel or lodging in mid-April. via REUTERS Notably, a review of filings for Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) — the only Democrat to be granted a meeting with Abrego Garcia in what he later claimed was a staged photo-op by Salvadoran officials for the purpose of embarrassing him — do not show any campaign spending for similar travel or lodging in mid-April. The main campaign arm for Senate Republicans later mocked the political trips by offering 'one-way' tickets for more Dems to visit El Salvador. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) reportedly dissuaded the Dems from taking the trip — despite praising Dexter in a subsequent political livestream as well as Van Hollen, whose 'great leadership' the Brooklynite celebrated for having made the first visit to CECOT. 6 Asked in an April 29 press conference whether he agreed with Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) that it was a 'mistake rallying around' Abrego Garcia, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries deflected the question. via REUTERS Asked in an April 29 press conference whether he agreed with Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) that it was a 'mistake rallying around' Abrego Garcia, Jeffries deflected the question. CECOT, the notorious Salvadoran megaprison, took in 260 suspected gang members that the Trump administration deported on March 15, including Abrego Garcia who had entered the US illegally in 2011. Maryland police arrested him along with some MS-13 members at a Home Depot parking lot in March 2019. Abrego Garcia was sporting a Chicago Bulls hat and hoodie that 'represents they are a member in good standing' of the gang, a confidential informant told authorities. 6 CECOT, the notorious Salvadoran megaprison, took in 260 suspected gang members that the Trump administration deported on March 15, including Abrego Garcia who had entered the US illegally in 2011. @nayibbukele/X The informant, in a report filed with the Prince George's County Police Department, said Abrego Garcia was an 'active member' of MS-13, held the low rank of 'Chequeo' and went by the street name 'Chele.' Later in 2019, an immigration judge granted Abrego Garcia a 'withholding of removal' order preventing his immediate deportation to El Salvador and allowing for removal to other nations — but he was released without the first Trump administration appealing the decision. Garcia was later moved from CECOT to a lower-security facility elsewhere in El Salvador. In June, the Trump administration facilitated the alleged gangbanger's return to the US — where he was hit with human trafficking charges. Garcia's wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, and defense attorneys have denied Abrego Garcia's purported MS-13 affiliation. Reps for Garcia, Frost and Dexter didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.
Straits Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Straits Times
Democrats' path to power Is ‘climate populism', US representative says
US Representative Yassamin Ansari said that getting rid of renewables 'is a mistake when you're talking about energy costs'. SEATTLE – Populist messages on climate change, including the potential for cleaner energy to lower electricity bills, are crucial as the Democrats seek to win back control of Congress in 2026's midterm election, according to Representative Yassamin Ansari. 'This climate populism message is one that we really need to lean into,' the Arizona Democrat said at the Bloomberg Green Seattle conference on July 15. 'When it comes to the cost of living, there is a clear connection between your utility prices and your energy costs and, in Arizona, your AC bills being higher than ever.' Republicans 'are entirely focusing our energy portfolio on oil and gas', explained Ms Ansari, warning that getting rid of renewables 'is a mistake when you're talking about energy costs'. Before entering Congress in 2025, Ms Ansari spent her career working on climate both internationally and locally. Now, she's spending much of her time calling out President Donald Trump's administration and the Republican-controlled Congress for cutting climate funding and rolling back climate policies. 'Some of the legislation in recent weeks, especially the Trump budget Bill – it represents some of the worst environmental rollbacks we've ever seen,' she said at the conference. Instead of focusing solely on the risks these Bills pose to the climate, Ms Ansari said Democrats should focus on how the legislation impacts people. Inflation ranks as one of the top three issues most concerning to Americans, while climate change ranks near the bottom, according to recent Pew Research Centre polling. The recent tax legislation signed into law by Mr Trump earlier in July, which pulls back federal support for new clean energy production, could cause electricity rates to increase between 9 per cent to 18 per cent by 2035, according to an analysis by the environmental think tank Energy Innovation. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore July BTO launch to have over 4,600 balance flats, 2 BTO projects with under than 3-year wait Singapore Acute psychiatry services to be expanded across all healthcare clusters: MOH Singapore 'Kpods broke our marriage, shattered our children': Woman on husband's vape addiction Business US tariffs may last well after Trump; crucial for countries to deepen trade ties: SM Lee Multimedia Telling the Singapore story for 180 years Asia Indonesia police detain 12 suspects over baby trafficking ring linked to Singapore Life Walking for exercise? Here are tips on how to do it properly Singapore 'Nobody deserves to be alone': Why Mummy and Acha have fostered over 20 children in the past 22 years Beyond focusing on the impacts the Bill will have, Ms Ansari said, Democrats need to refine their vision for the future. 'Now is a really important time for Democrats to plan when it comes to what is the legislation that we want to push forward when we have the House, and again when we have the trifecta' of both chambers of Congress and the presidency. Bloomberg
Business Recorder
3 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Gaza mediators ‘intensifying' efforts to reach deal in Doha
DOHA: Gaza ceasefire talks remain in their 'first phase' after more than a week of talks, even as mediators step up efforts to broker a truce between Israel and Hamas, Qatar said Tuesday. 'Discussions on the framework agreement are still ongoing. Both delegations are present here in Doha, and the mediators are intensifying efforts to reach an agreement,' Qatar's foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari told reporters. 'The negotiations are still in the first phase, which is specifically about reaching an agreement of principle ahead of negotiations that will begin, God willing, in the next phase,' he said. Hamas says discussing Gaza ceasefire proposals from mediators But uncertainty loomed over the efforts, which had appeared deadlocked over the weekend, with each side accusing the other of staking out positions that prevented a deal from being reached. 'We cannot say whether an agreement will be reached tomorrow or whether the negotiations will collapse tomorrow,' Ansari said. On Saturday, Palestinian sources told AFP that Israel's proposals for keeping troops in the territory were preventing progress towards a deal. But the Qatari spokesman insisted: 'We believe there is no stalemate,' adding there was no set timeframe for the talks. Qatar has been mediating indirect negotiations between the warring parties alongside Egypt and the United States.
The Star
4 days ago
- Business
- The Star
KL still nation's priciest rental market
While Malaysian renters and investors saw a welcome period of stability in the first quarter of 2025 as residential condominium rents held steady across most budget tiers, Kuala Lumpur continued to command the highest average rents in the country. According to Juwai IQI co-founder and group chief executive officer Kashif Ansari, the average monthly rents in Malaysia showed little fluctuation year-on-year, signalling a balanced market. This finding is based on an analysis of over 4,500 IQI rental transactions across the country per quarter. 'Across Malaysia, average monthly rents in all four price brackets (affordable, mid-market, premium and luxury) moved in either direction by no more than 1.5% compared to a year earlier. 'That signals a balanced market without sharp swings. It is a relief to both investors and renters,' Ansari said. Despite relative rent stability, Kuala Lumpur (KL) remains Malaysia's most expensive rental market across all price categories. While its premium over national averages is modest in most tiers, it stands out more significantly in the affordable segment. Average monthly rents nationwide by price bracket are: > Luxury (RM7,501 and above): RM10,172. > Premium (RM5,001–RM7,500): RM6,338. > Mid-market (RM2,501–RM5,000): RM3,409. > Affordable (below RM2,500): RM1,674. KL's average rent in the affordable segment was RM1,808, 8% higher than the national average. This suggests even budget-conscious renters in the capital city face steeper costs than their peers elsewhere. A market defined by stability Across the board, rental prices have proven resilient, reflecting both supply-demand equilibrium and confidence among landlords and tenants. Premium homes, those renting for RM5,001 to RM7,500, posted minor increases to a new national average of RM6,344. In KL, premium rents inched up 0.5% , while Selangor saw a slightly higher increase of 1.1%. According to Ansari, the figures reflect enduring demand from professionals and affluent renters who continue to prioritise lifestyle conveniences, space and location. At the entry level, affordable rentals below RM2,500 remained largely unchanged nationwide. Notably, Selangor bucked the trend with a 3.2% increase in this segment, underscoring growing rental demand from cost-conscious households and new job seekers entering urban areas. Meanwhile, the mid-market bracket, covering rents from RM2,501 to RM5,000, saw a slight dip of 1.4% nationally. This minor correction opens a window for upgraders seeking larger or better-located homes without hurting overall yields for landlords. 'While Malaysia has an extensive rental market at the higher price range, it is the entry-level affordable tier of properties that accounts for the greatest number of leases. That is as it should be and suggests the rental market is responding to demand. 'Sub-RM2,500 leases accounted for nearly nine out of 10 transactions in our data set. That underscores Malaysia's attractiveness to young households and working families,' said Ansari. Future outlook Looking ahead, the rental market is forecasted to continue its gentle gains trajectory over the next 12 months, supported by monetary policy stability and consistent demand in key regions. Given that Bank Negara has lowered its overnight policy rate to 2.75%, financing costs will be slightly lower, too, which is expected to boost home buyers and investor confidence. This could lead to a more competitive rental market with an increased supply of properties, but also potentially drive up rental prices due to heightened demand. Nevertheless, KL is expected to lead rental growth in the coming quarters, buoyed by urbanisation, economic activity and limited supply in certain submarkets. Selangor, in contrast, is expected to hold flat, stabilised by its deeper rental base and steady commuter demand. In Johor, growing integration with Singapore, especially through the under-construction RTS Link and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone initiatives, is expected to attract new residents and yield-seeking investors. These cross-border developments could help push rental yields upward, particularly in Johor Baru's newer high-rise developments. Nationally, rental growth is projected to remain within a 1% to 3% range over the next three quarters. What to expect By rental price tier, different segments are likely to perform at varying speeds: > Affordable: Expected to remain broadly stable as incoming supply matches demand. This tier continues to dominate the market in volume. > Mid-market: Poised for a moderate increase, supported by wage growth and population migration into urban hubs like the Klang Valley and Johor Baru. > Premium: Forecasted to grow by 2% to 4% due to a return of expatriates and restricted new supply. > Luxury: Anticipated to stay steady, buoyed by limited stock and affluent tenant profiles. KL's resilient core KL's continued reign as the most expensive rental market is underpinned by strong fundamentals: high employment concentration, international connectivity, lifestyle offerings, and a maturing high-rise residential market. The capital's pricing reflects not just real estate values but its status as the epicentre of commerce, culture and convenience in Malaysia. Importantly, the city's rental advantage appears sustainable. Even where KL's rent premiums seem narrow, only 1% above national averages in most tiers, the sheer density of activity, demand for proximity and scarcity of central locations keep prices elevated. This dynamic also highlights the capital's nuanced rental landscape. While luxury units in KL do not drastically outprice those in other major global cities, affordability becomes relatively harder to access, with budget-tier tenants facing notably higher base costs. KL's position at the top of the rent ladder serves as a reminder of the city's central role in the nation's residential economy and a barometer for how urban demand, migration and affordability trends will shape Malaysia's property sector in the quarters ahead.
The Hindu
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Kashmir-based Islamic bodies upset by Shia cleric Imran Ansari remarks, calls for boycott
The Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU), comprising scholars and leaders from both Sunni and Shia sects, on Sunday (July 13, 2025) took exception to the remarks allegedly made by J&K Peoples Conference leader and Shia cleric Imran Raza Ansari against one of the companions of Prophet Muhammad. In a joint statement, the MMU, headed by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, said it was deeply anguished and strongly condemned deliberate provocations by Mr. Ansari. 'The MMU had refrained from naming the individual, hoping that he would reflect and correct his malicious intent. However, instead of rectifying, Mr. Ansari has now publicly resorted to openly abusing and disrespecting the revered companions of the Prophet,' it alleged. The MMU termed the reported remarks of Mr. Ansari 'absolutely unacceptable' and 'a direct attack on the foundations of Islamic unity, ethics, and mutual respect'. 'It will not be tolerated. The MMU strongly urges the authorities to initiate immediate legal action against Mr. Ansari for inciting communal disharmony and hurting the religious sentiments of the Muslim community,' the MMU said. All member scholars of the MMU, Sunni and Shia alike, have taken a unanimous decision to boycott Mr. Ansari until he publicly apologises and withdraws his statements. 'No platform, religious gathering, or public event associated with MMU or its constituents will host or endorse him till then,' the MMU added, while asking all to maintain unity and calm. Several Shia clerics, including Aga Syed Hassan Al Moosvi, Molvi Masroor Abbas Ansari, Aga Syed Mohammad Hadi Al Moosvi Hadi, have also distanced themselves from Mr. Ansari's statements. National Conference (NC) MP and Shia cleric Aga Syed Ruhullah also condemned Mr. Ansari for his remarks. 'Ayatullah Khamenie has issued a decree (fatwa) that it is forbidden (Haram) to insult Khulafa Rashideen or Sacred Tenets or Sanctities of Ahl al-Sunnah. If you (Mr. Ansari) are so much inspired by his leadership, stop doing what is forbidden. And stop using religion for your personal benefit,' MP Ansari said. Responding to the MMU statement, Mr. Ansari, in a statement, said, 'A video clip has recently circulated online, accompanied by claims that have spoken ill of the Sahabah. I want to state, plainly and without ambiguity, that this allegation is unfounded. The interpretation being pushed onto my words is not only inaccurate but also ignores the broader context and intent of what was said.' He said the path toward any meaningful unity within the Muslim Ummah 'must begin with mutual respect, not with provocation, distortion, or sectarian one-upmanship'. 'My focus has always been on building understanding where there is confusion and promoting unity where there is disarray. The video in question, while selectively edited and misrepresented, may have struck a nerve for some. I acknowledge that, but I reiterate: no disrespect was intended, and any claim to the contrary is baseless, and I was not aiming at disrespecting any Sahaba, nor did I intend to mention one,' Mr. Ansari said. He said a certain individual or the handful of Shia organisations, who are attempting to stifle voices of conviction in the name of unity, 'are not serving the Ummah but betraying Bibi Fatima'.
