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News18
07-08-2025
- Business
- News18
Less Diplomacy, More Drama: How Trump Turns Global Politics Into A Reality Show
US President Donald Trump's return to the global stage has been marked with unpredictability, misinformation, and showmanship turning serious negotiations into a political circus For a real estate baron, who rose to prominence in American pop culture through his show, The Apprentice, it is not surprising that US President Donald Trump continues to rely on dramatics even on the global stage. And his return to it has been marked with unpredictability, misinformation, and showmanship turning serious global negotiations into a political circus. Trump has often mentioned how much he loves watching television while bingeing on burgers – and it does well to describe his all-the-world's-a-stage personality. In fact, it was a joke by one of his predecessors at a glitzy event – he now pretty much hates – that may have goaded him to become a politician. In April 2011, former president Barack Obama targeted Trump's reality TV persona at the White House Correspondents' Dinner – a journalists' gathering often merging standup and politics. Here are some examples: CANADA – 51 ST STATE OF THE US Former prime minister Justin Trudeau called the tariff justification 'completely bogus" and accused him of trying to harm the Canadian economy to facilitate annexation, a claim the American had joked about and later seriously repeated in some contexts. VIETNAM TARIFF FLIP-FLOP Vietnam thought it had a tariff deal. Negotiators had worked out a preliminary agreement with the United States to substantially lower punitive tariffs, to around 11 percent but just days before Washington's July 8 deadline, Trump unilaterally raised the figure to 20 percent over a phone call with Vietnamese general secretary Tô Lâm, who had not even been part of the talks. Experts have warned that this episode damages US credibility with a former USTR official, Michael Kruse, stating: 'It introduces even greater uncertainty, even once you think you've negotiated a deal, he (Trump) can turn around and change the terms unilaterally and publicly," adding, 'and in this case it appears that he did it unilaterally and publicly without any buy-in from Vietnam." 'It just introduces even a greater element of uncertainty, that even once you think you've negotiated a deal, he can turn around and just change the terms," @wendyscutler tells @POLITICO. 'And in this case it appears that he did it unilaterally and publicly without any buy-in… — Michael Kruse (@michaelkruse) July 11, 2025 WITCH HUNT CRIES, 50% TARIFF THREAT OVER BOLSONARO TRIAL Trump has turned global trade policy into a tool for personal grudges and political drama, with the Brazil episode a prime example. He threatened a 50 percent tariff on Brazilian goods unless President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva halted the trial of far-right ally Jair Bolsonaro. The threat was not based on trade concerns, as the US actually enjoys a surplus with Brazil but purely on ideological and personal grounds. He openly called the trial a 'witch hunt" and used his social media platform to pressure Brazil's democratic institutions, saying he told Lula to 'stop this nonsense". Earlier this year, Trump threatened to slam Colombia with tariffs and eight sanctions, all because Bogotá refused to accept two US military planes carrying deported Colombian nationals. 'The US cannot treat Colombian migrants as criminals," wrote Colombian President Gustavo Petro on his X. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from geopolitics to diplomacy and global trends. Stay informed with the latest world news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : donald trump view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Black America Web
05-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
Barack Obama's 10 Best Moments You'll Never Forget
Barack Obama's 10 Best Moments You'll Never Forget From keynote speeches to slam dunks, President Barack Obama has consistently captivated the world with a rare mix of intellect, humor, and heart. As the first Black President of the United States, his time in office—and even life after it—has been filled with unforgettable moments that continue to inspire new generations. Whether he was dropping the mic (literally), singing Al Green at a podium, or tearing up while speaking about his daughters, Obama reminded America what leadership with humanity looks like. More than just a politician, he's become a cultural icon whose every move—on the court, at a rally, or on a playlist—has made history. Here are 10 of the most iconic Barack Obama moments we'll never forget: RELATED: Michelle Obama's Braids Made A Powerful Statement At The DNC Barack Obama's 10 Best Moments You'll Never Forget was originally published on 1. The 'Yes We Can' Speech (2008) After winning the Iowa caucus, Obama delivered his now-famous 'Yes We Can' speech, a turning point that energized voters across the country and marked the beginning of a movement. 2. Singing Al Green at the Apollo Theater (2012) With just a few lines of 'Let's Stay Together,' Obama charmed a room full of fans—and the internet. The moment showcased his cool confidence and cultural awareness. 3. Dropping the Mic at the White House Correspondents' Dinner (2016) After roasting the press and political opponents with razor-sharp wit, he ended his final Correspondents' Dinner by literally dropping the mic: 'Obama out.' 4. Catching a Fly Mid-Interview (2009) In a hilarious but impressive flex of focus and composure, Obama swatted a fly during a live interview and then calmly said, 'I got the sucker.' 5. The 'Anger Translator' Sketch with Keegan-Michael Key (2015) At the White House Correspondents' Dinner, Obama teamed up with comedian Key to deliver a hilarious routine that played on Obama's calm demeanor and the frustrations he rarely voiced aloud. 6. Emotional Farewell Speech in Chicago (2017) In his goodbye speech, Obama thanked Michelle, praised his daughters, and reminded Americans that 'the most important title is citizen.' It was heartfelt, hopeful, and heavy with emotion. 7. Launching My Brother's Keeper Initiative (2014) A powerful initiative aimed at supporting young men of color, Obama's My Brother's Keeper showed his commitment to legacy beyond policy—one rooted in mentorship and opportunity. 8. His Viral 3-Point Shot (2020) While encouraging voters at a gym, Obama casually drained a 3-point shot and said, 'That's what I do.' The moment went viral and showed that his charisma hadn't left with the presidency. 9. Winning the Nobel Peace Prize (2009) Only nine months into his presidency, Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to strengthen international diplomacy—a symbol of global hope and transformation. 10. Reading mean tweets with Jimmy Kimmel
Express Tribune
04-07-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Sophia Hutchins, Caitlyn Jenner's manager and close friend, dies at 29
Sophia Hutchins died at age 29 following an ATV accident near Caitlyn Jenner's Malibu home. Hutchins, Jenner's close friend and manager since 2017, collided with a moving vehicle while riding an ATV on the morning of Wednesday, July 2. The impact reportedly sent her and the vehicle down a 350-foot ravine. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The car's two occupants were unharmed. It is not confirmed if Jenner witnessed the incident or was present at the time. Hutchins, a transgender advocate and entrepreneur, became Jenner's confidant after the Olympian came out as transgender in 2015. She appeared on I Am Cait and moved into Jenner's Malibu mansion in 2017, replacing Kris Jenner as her manager. Despite years of speculation, Hutchins consistently stated that she and Jenner were never romantically involved, describing their relationship as familial. Hutchins studied economics and finance at Pepperdine University, graduating in 2018. She later served as CEO of the Caitlyn Jenner Foundation and founded the now-defunct skincare brand LUMASOL, which Kim Kardashian promoted. In media interviews, she shared insights on managing Jenner's brand and navigating their domestic life. In 2019, she described their living situation as "kind of like living with your parents". Hutchins was a vocal political figure and supporter of Donald Trump, appearing publicly with him in 2024. Her final public appearance was at the White House Correspondents' Dinner in 2024.
USA Today
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Melissa Rivers talks TV tribute to unapologetic mom Joan: 'She kicked down the door'
Melissa Rivers talks TV tribute to unapologetic mom Joan: 'She kicked down the door' Show Caption Hide Caption President Trump, comedy, absent at White House Correspondents' Dinner The White House Correspondents' dinner went along without an appearance from President Trump or any comedians. One goal overshadowed all others for Melissa Rivers when producing a television special honoring her mother, 'Joan Rivers: A Dead Funny All-Star Tribute.' It had to be hilarious. 'My mom always said, and I say it in the special, when you make someone laugh, you give them a mini vacation, and God knows we need a vacation," Rivers says. The hourlong tribute airs May 13 on NBC (10 ET/PT), with an extended, uncensored version streaming on Peacock May14. 'The Peacock version is what really happened in the room," Rivers teases. In the special, taped in November, Tiffany Haddish raps to a rendition of 'Hava Nagila' recalling how Joan's jokes 'split your side like a kidney stone.' Nikki Glaser applauds Joan's candor about aging and plastic surgery, and Aubrey Plaza retires Joan's not-so-politically-correct jokes. Rachel Brosnahan, who cites Joan as an inspiration for Midge on Amazon Prime's 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,' rapidly fires off as many Joan quips as she can in one minute. Chelsea Handler praises Joan as 'a pioneer for women in comedy,' explaining 'she walked so that we could run!' Joan Rivers (born Joan Molinksy), died in 2014 after she stopped breathing during a procedure on her throat. She became the first woman to host a late-night show, was celebrated for her brutally honest appraisal of celebrity fashion on red carpets and built a billion-dollar QVC brand. 'These women wanted to be there,' Melissa Rivers, 57, says. 'I think it's because she kicked down the door. It wasn't a glass ceiling; it was a door, and she kicked it down. And they all know that. They know that they would not be able to do what they do, especially the material they do, if she hadn't made it OK first.' Patton Oswalt tells the audience gathered at the Apollo Theater for the taping that Joan wrote 70,000 jokes. 'I would find random pieces of paper with five words on it and be like, 'Oh, this is yours. You left it,'' Rivers says. Joan 'would record all of her standup when she was working in clubs and working at new material, and then start to figure out why something didn't work or why something did work. She was very, very disciplined.' Sarah Silverman, also featured in the tribute, recalls in an interview with USA TODAY that Joan was 'always writing. She was a comic's comic 'til the end, and she still had so much more in her. What a tragic, frustrating death. 'She was 81,' Silverman continues, 'but she was the youngest, hippest 81, with so much more. One thing that really inspires me about Joan is she once said that she didn't feel like she hit her stride in standup until she was in her 70s.' Melissa Rivers marries attorney Steve Mitchel after pair lost home in LA fires Rivers' favorite part of the taping was seeing how her mother's humor can still captivate an audience today. 'Every time on the monitor (in the green room), when one of my mom's clips would roll, everyone would stop and watch and laugh," she says. "And a number of people said to me that night, 'She's still the funniest person in the room.'' Rivers says her mother 'didn't like talking about legacy,' because it "was for people who aren't relevant.' But the tribute gives Joan one more opportunity to bask in the love of a crowd. 'She was truly a writer, and she loved performing live,' Rivers says. 'She loved an audience more than anything.'
New York Post
08-05-2025
- Politics
- New York Post
Ex-CNN journalist speaks out on Biden's health cover-up: ‘Ample evidence'
Former CNN journalist Chris Cillizza admitted there is 'ample evidence' former President Joe Biden's aides covered up his cognitive decline by shaming reporters and making it uncomfortable to seek the truth. Cilizza, who previously served as CNN's editor-at-large and now has his own Substack, opened up about his experience as the media industry reckons with the notion it failed to cover Biden's declining health until his frail debate showing last June that led to him exiting the 2024 presidential race. 'I think there is now ample evidence that there was a cover-up on Joe Biden's actual physical and mental condition by his aides in the White House. There's been a ton of reporting on it… too much, I think, to dismiss it,' Cillizza told Fox News Digital in an email. While Cillizza believes Biden aides were hiding the truth from the American people, the former CNN political analyst doesn't believe the press was part of the cover-up. 'Instead, I think the Biden team made it really hard to ask questions about his health — they shamed you, said you didn't like him, etc.,' Cillizza said, noting that many reporters, including himself, 'let that be that.' 4 'I think there is now ample evidence that there was a cover-up on Joe Biden's actual physical and mental condition by his aides in the White House,' former CNN journalist Chris Cillizza said. Chris Cillizza / YouTube Cillizza doesn't believe President Donald Trump's team would receive the same treatment from the mainstream press. He feels that some reporters took the Biden team's word for it because they were either more 'inclined to believe a Democratic president,' or were likely to believe 'someone who hadn't said 30,000 false or misleading things while in office.' Cillizza has been outspoken about the ordeal in recent weeks and recently released a video titled, 'Why it *still* matters that the media missed the big Biden story,' where he reflected on how Axios' Alex Thompson used his award speech at the White House Correspondents' Dinner to 'call out how both the Biden White House and the media mishandled President Biden's cognitive decline during the 2024 election.' 4 President Biden unexpectedly performed a sign of the cross during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in New York City. Reuters Cillizza said there is a high bar to directly report that Biden had dementia or some similar condition, which he believes wasn't met. 'The fact that I do not believe there was any coordinated cover-up by the media of Joe Biden's condition, that does not get us media off the hook,' he said. 'The media should have asked more questions about Joe Biden I should have asked more questions about Joe Biden and his health,' Cillizza continued. 'We should have dug harder.' 4 Joe Biden trips as he walks onto stage to deliver a speech in Sydney on July 20, 2016. AFP via Getty Images Last year, Cillizza offered a mea culpa for shrugging off concerns about Biden's fitness for office. 'As a reporter, I have a confession to make… I should have pushed harder earlier for more information about Joe Biden's mental and physical well-being and any signs of decline,' he said in a video posted to YouTube. Cillizza acknowledged that Republicans would regularly contact him during his time at CNN, asking him why he hadn't addressed Biden's decline and how he would 'brush them off' since he had not seen evidence of it. 4 Biden is helped up after falling during the graduation ceremony at the United States Air Force Academy on June 1, 2023. AFP via Getty Images 'The White House and the people around Joe Biden were absolutely adamant that suggesting anything- asking the question about whether he was in some physical, mental or both decline, was offensive. 'How could you? It's age shaming.' And I think that impacted me at some level,' Cillizza said. 'While I did ask the question from time to time… I didn't really push on it, if I'm being honest. Now, once I left CNN and once it became a little bit more clear to me about Biden's age, I think I did write pretty regularly and talk pretty regularly about how I wasn't sure that this guy was up to it,' he added. 'And then obviously, after the June 27 debate, everybody, including me, was writing and talking about it.' Fox News Digital reached out to a Biden representative for comment.
