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Sound Without Limits: Spotify’s Lossless Era Begins

Spotify

Photo by Imtiyaz Ali on Unsplash

The Road to Reality

For years, Spotify teased a future of better sound. Today, that future is real. Premium users across dozens of countries are now entering a lossless era—where CD-quality sound is the default.

Raising the Stakes

The move redefines what a subscription service should deliver. Lossless is no longer a perk, but a baseline expectation. Competitors must now recalibrate.

What Listeners Gain

Lossless is about detail: the breath before a lyric, the resonance of an acoustic guitar, the echo of a live venue. Spotify ensures those moments are preserved, not flattened.

Market Disruption

Spotify’s rivals may tout higher-resolution audio, but Spotify’s trump card is scale. By democratizing fidelity, it reshapes user expectations across the entire industry.

Where the Story Goes Next

Lossless could be just the start. Future innovations like immersive audio and adaptive bit-rates may follow. For now, Spotify has made a statement: fidelity is the future.

Discover it for yourself today at Spotify.

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FM Community FM Feature FM Legal FM Politics Trending

Leaders and Communities Confront the Harsh Reality of Police Accountability After Tyre Nichols Acquittals

Photo by Scott Rodgerson on Unsplash

More than two years have passed since Tyre Nichols endured a violent and fatal encounter with five Memphis police officers. In that time, his name became a rallying cry for justice reform, a symbol of the urgent need to address police violence. Yet in a verdict that stunned much of the nation, a Tennessee jury recently acquitted three of those former officers of every state charge brought against them.

For Nichols’ family, community leaders, civil rights advocates, and countless observers across the country, the verdict was more than disappointing — it was a jarring reminder of the persistent barriers to achieving true police accountability, even in cases backed by overwhelming evidence.

A Night of Violence Caught on Camera

Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man known for his love of photography, skateboarding, and his close relationship with his mother, was driving home on January 7, 2023, when he was stopped by members of the Memphis Police Department’s specialized SCORPION unit. What began as a traffic stop for alleged reckless driving escalated almost immediately into a brutal chain of events.

Nichols was forcibly removed from his car, pepper-sprayed, and tased. When he ran toward his mother’s house in fear, several officers chased and caught him. What followed was a prolonged, merciless beating — officers struck him with fists, boots, and batons while he cried out repeatedly for his mother.

The assault, captured by multiple body cameras and a police pole-mounted surveillance camera, showed not just the violence itself but also the officers’ behavior afterward. As Nichols lay badly injured, officers exchanged fist bumps, laughed, and boasted about their actions. They failed to provide medical aid for nearly 20 minutes. Nichols was eventually transported to a hospital, but his injuries were catastrophic. He died three days later from blunt force trauma.

Charges and Courtroom Battle

All five officers involved were fired from the department and charged with an array of crimes, including second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, and official misconduct. The trial that has now drawn national attention centered on Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, and Justin Smith.

Prosecutors anchored their case in the disturbing video evidence, describing the encounter as a sustained and deadly assault against an unarmed man who posed no real threat. They argued that the footage and testimony left no room for reasonable doubt: Nichols’ death was the direct result of excessive and unjustified police violence.

The defense countered with a very different narrative. Lawyers for the three defendants claimed the officers were struggling to restrain a noncompliant suspect in a chaotic, high-pressure situation. They sought to shift much of the blame to another officer, Emmitt Martin, who had already accepted a plea deal in exchange for testifying against his former colleagues. According to the defense, Martin’s actions — not those of their clients — were the primary cause of Nichols’ injuries.

During the trial, one of the most shocking revelations came to light: Officer Demetrius Haley had taken a photograph of Nichols’ battered body after the beating and shared it at least eleven times, including with individuals outside the department. Prosecutors argued this showed a callous disregard for human life and dignity. Yet, despite this and the damning footage, the jury returned not guilty verdicts on all state charges for all three defendants.

Public Reaction: Shock, Anger, and Grief

The acquittals triggered a wave of public outrage. Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy voiced what many were thinking when he said:

“It’s hard for us to understand how the jury could have found no guilt on any of the charges… We all saw the videos.”

Outside the courthouse, Nichols’ parents addressed a crowd gathered at the National Civil Rights Museum. His mother, RowVaughn Wells, said the verdict was “a slap in the face,” while his stepfather, Rodney Wells, called it proof that “the system is still broken.”

National voices joined in condemnation. The Congressional Black Caucus released a statement calling the acquittals “a shock to our collective conscience.” Civil rights leader Bernice King urged the U.S. Department of Justice and Tennessee’s Attorney General to intervene, declaring that the case exposed the reality of a system built to dehumanize Black people.”

Why Accountability Is So Rare

Legal scholars and justice reform advocates say that Nichols’ case highlights the deep structural and cultural barriers to convicting police officers. Even when there is clear video evidence, multiple factors can work against prosecution:

  • Jury Perception – Many jurors are inclined to give officers the benefit of the doubt, especially when defense teams frame actions as necessary split-second decisions.

  • Institutional Protection – Police unions and department cultures often protect officers, while legal doctrines like qualified immunity make accountability more difficult.

  • Burden of Proof – Prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which can be challenging when officers claim they acted out of perceived threat or necessity.

In Memphis, the SCORPION unit, created to crack down on violent crime, had been accused of overly aggressive tactics well before Nichols’ death. Critics say such specialized units foster a militarized mentality that prioritizes dominance and control over de-escalation and community safety. While the unit was disbanded shortly after Nichols’ killing, the damage — both physical and to public trust — had already been done.

Federal Convictions Still in Place

While the state verdicts were a blow to many seeking justice, federal charges against all five officers remain a source of hope for accountability. Earlier this year, the officers were convicted in federal court of violating Nichols’ civil rights. These convictions, based largely on the same video and testimonial evidence, carry significant prison terms. Sentencing is scheduled for the summer.

Nichols’ family has also filed a $550 million civil lawsuit against the officers, the City of Memphis, and Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis. The suit accuses them of gross negligence, excessive force, and deliberate indifference to Nichols’ medical needs. While monetary damages cannot undo the tragedy, the family hopes the case will send a message that institutions will face consequences for enabling such misconduct.

Remembering the Man Behind the Case

Amid the legal battles and public debate, it is easy to lose sight of who Tyre Nichols was before that January night. Friends and family describe him as gentle, creative, and deeply connected to his loved ones. He enjoyed photography, capturing sunsets, and skateboarding with friends. He had a warm smile and a calm demeanor.

On the night of his fatal encounter with police, Nichols was less than 100 yards from his home. He cried out for his mother not just once, but multiple times during the beating — a detail that haunts those who have watched the footage or heard it described. For many, that image underscores the humanity lost in the moment officers chose aggression over compassion.

The Larger Call for Reform

The Nichols case has reignited calls for sweeping reform in policing and the justice system. Advocates stress that meaningful change requires more than prosecutions after tragedies — it demands preventative measures and structural overhaul. Among the proposed reforms:

  • Federal Oversight – Expanding the DOJ’s power to investigate and enforce civil rights standards in police departments.

  • Ending Qualified Immunity – Removing the legal protections that shield officers from personal liability in many misconduct cases.

  • Use-of-Force Overhaul – Implementing stricter policies on de-escalation, banning chokeholds, and mandating immediate medical care for injured suspects.

  • Independent Prosecutors – Assigning police misconduct cases to independent offices instead of local prosecutors with ties to law enforcement.

Community activists also point to the need for cultural change inside departments, shifting away from the “warrior” mindset toward one of service and partnership with the public.

The Road Ahead

For Memphis, the acquittals have reopened wounds and deepened mistrust between the community and law enforcement. For the nation, the case is another stark reminder of how elusive justice can be when those accused are police officers.

Still, the fight for accountability in Tyre Nichols’ name is far from over. His family will continue to push forward in federal court and in their civil suit. Activists and reform advocates are using his story to press for systemic change, hoping to ensure that what happened to him does not happen to others.

Tyre Nichols should have gone home that night. He should still be taking photos, skating with friends, and sharing meals with his family. Instead, his name joins a long list of Black Americans whose lives were cut short by the very people sworn to protect them.

His story, and the national reaction to it, underscores a painful truth — that the fight for justice is ongoing, and for many, justice delayed often feels like justice denied. But as his mother has vowed, they will not stop speaking his name, telling his story, and demanding a system where every life is valued equally.

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FM News FM Politics

Nation Outraged as Acquittals in Tyre Nichols Case Reveal the Fragile State of Police Accountability in America

Photo by Michael Förtsch on Unsplash

Over two years after the violent beating and eventual death of Tyre Nichols at the hands of five Memphis police officers, a verdict has reignited national debate, grief, and fury. In a trial that many hoped would be a turning point in the fight for police accountability, a Tennessee jury acquitted three of the officers involved—Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, and Justin Smith—on all charges. The decision left Nichols’ family devastated and civil rights advocates outraged, shining a harsh light on the justice system’s persistent reluctance to hold law enforcement fully accountable, even in the face of irrefutable evidence.

Nichols, a 29-year-old FedEx employee and amateur photographer, was pulled over during a traffic stop in January 2023. What began as a routine stop escalated rapidly into a horrific display of brutality. Officers pepper-sprayed, tased, and chased Nichols through a suburban Memphis neighborhood. Once caught, he was relentlessly beaten—struck with fists, batons, and even kicked in the face—while restrained and screaming for his mother. The entire incident, caught on body cameras and a fixed street pole camera, shocked the nation when it was released.

Video Footage That Demanded Justice—But Didn’t Receive It

The footage, now seared into the American conscience, depicted not only the violence inflicted upon Nichols but also the subsequent inhumanity of the officers. After the beating, Nichols lay handcuffed and slumped against a car, visibly in pain and struggling to breathe. None of the officers rendered medical aid. Instead, they shared stories of the attack among themselves, laughed, and even fist-bumped, while Nichols slowly deteriorated. He died three days later from blunt force trauma and internal bleeding.

For prosecutors, the video was the linchpin of the case. It was expected to be the smoking gun that would lead to convictions for second-degree murder, aggravated assault, and official misconduct. And yet, the defense managed to sway the jury by shifting blame to a different officer—Emmitt Martin—who had already entered a plea deal. Their argument: that their clients were merely “trying to subdue” a suspect who was resisting arrest.

This narrative didn’t align with what millions of Americans saw: a man unarmed, outnumbered, and brutally assaulted. Nor did it explain why Officer Haley took a photo of Nichols’ swollen, unconscious body and shared it eleven times—a grotesque detail revealed during the trial. Nor did it justify the nearly 20-minute delay before any officer even attempted to provide medical assistance.

Public Reaction: From Grief to Outrage

Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy didn’t mince words in his post-verdict statement. “It’s hard for us to understand how the jury could have found no guilt on any of the charges,” he said. “We all saw the videos.” His remarks resonated with millions watching the trial closely, hopeful that justice might finally prevail in a system notorious for shielding police from consequences.

The acquittals struck a raw nerve, especially among Black communities. Nichols’ parents, visibly shaken, gave emotional statements outside the National Civil Rights Museum. His mother said she felt like she’d “lost her son all over again.” The Congressional Black Caucus called the verdicts “a shock to our collective conscience,” while Bernice King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., condemned the ruling as a tragic reflection of a justice system still designed to “dehumanize Black people and protect power.”

An All-Too-Familiar Pattern

To many Americans—especially Black and brown communities—the Nichols verdict was not just a disappointment. It was confirmation of a bitter truth: that accountability for police officers remains elusive, even when the abuse is caught on camera and presented in court.

The case joins a growing list of high-profile police violence cases where expectations of justice were met with devastating letdowns: from Rodney King to Eric Garner, from Breonna Taylor to Elijah McClain. In each of these cases, public outcry was immense. Reforms were promised. Yet convictions, if they came at all, were rare—and systemic change, slower still.

Despite reforms in recent years, including body-worn cameras, independent oversight, and better training policies, officers in many states remain shielded by powerful unions, qualified immunity protections, and a justice system that often gives them the benefit of the doubt—especially in juries that may include sympathizers or individuals wary of convicting law enforcement.

Federal Charges and Civil Lawsuits: A Glimmer of Hope

Although the state trial ended in acquittals, Nichols’ family still has two active legal paths toward justice. First, all five officers are still facing federal charges, including civil rights violations and obstruction of justice. These charges carry heavy penalties, and convictions are still possible. Sentencing is expected later this year, and many activists are pinning their hopes on a more decisive outcome at the federal level.

Secondly, Nichols’ family has filed a $550 million civil lawsuit against the city of Memphis, the officers, and Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis. The lawsuit alleges that the Scorpion Unit—an aggressive street-crime squad responsible for Nichols’ stop—was poorly supervised, dangerously aggressive, and part of a broader culture of violence and impunity within the department.

Some see the civil suit as a way to pressure cities into change by hitting them financially. Others, however, argue that money can never compensate for the loss of a life, or the failure of a system that allowed it to happen in the first place.

The Bigger Picture: Why Reform Still Falls Short

The Tyre Nichols case is now a sobering symbol of America’s ongoing crisis of police accountability. Despite the public’s access to evidence, despite body cameras, media coverage, and years of advocacy, the system still struggles to deliver justice—especially when the accused wear badges.

Part of the problem lies in how police officers are trained and protected. Critics argue that the prevailing “warrior mindset”—which frames the public as potential threats—creates officers more ready to escalate than de-escalate. Internal review boards often favor officers. Investigations take too long. Prosecutions face high burdens of proof. And most crucially, trust in police is so culturally embedded that some juries simply cannot accept that an officer might commit a crime—even when the evidence is overwhelming.

There’s also a racial dimension that can’t be ignored. While the five officers in the Nichols case were Black, many activists argue that the issue isn’t just about white officers harming Black people—it’s about a policing system, rooted in control and suppression, that devalues Black lives regardless of the race of its enforcers.

Calls to Action: What Comes Next?

In the aftermath of the verdict, activists are ramping up demands for deeper, more structural reform. The calls include:

  • Ending qualified immunity, which protects officers from civil lawsuits.

  • Independent state prosecutors for all cases involving police violence.

  • Community oversight boards with real authority to hold departments accountable.

  • Federal legislation, like the long-stalled George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which would establish national standards and accountability measures for law enforcement.

But legislative progress has been slow. Partisan gridlock and powerful police unions have often derailed even the most modest reform attempts. Still, many believe the continued pressure from families like Nichols’, from grassroots organizers, and from civil rights organizations may one day shift the tide.

Remembering Tyre Nichols Beyond the Trial

Amid the legal debates and systemic criticisms, it’s important to remember who Tyre Nichols was—not just a victim or a hashtag, but a human being. He was a son, a friend, a coworker, a skater, and a creative soul. He loved photography and captured images of Memphis sunsets. He had dreams, plans, and people who loved him. That night, he was just trying to get home.

His life was taken not by accident, but by a system that too often mistakes aggression for safety and silence for justice.

Final Thoughts

The acquittals in the Tyre Nichols case are a harsh reminder that video evidence and public outrage alone are not enough to change entrenched systems. They expose a justice system still reluctant to see wrongdoing when it wears a badge. And they leave families like Nichols’ waiting—again—for justice that may never fully arrive.

But even in grief, there is resolve. His family, his community, and millions across the country continue to demand not just justice for Tyre Nichols—but transformation of the system that failed him.

 

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FM News FM Politics Jail Tales

Harriet Tubman Removed from Government Website, Restored After Outcry

harriet tubman

Photo by Library of Congress on Unsplash

For a brief, disconcerting moment in recent history, Harriet Tubman—a towering figure in the fight for Black liberation—was all but erased from a U.S. government webpage. It wasn’t a technical glitch. It wasn’t an accident. It was a quiet revision. And it speaks volumes.

Earlier this year, the official National Park Service (NPS) website—one of the key platforms responsible for educating the public about America’s historical sites—underwent a subtle but deeply troubling change. The page dedicated to the Underground Railroad, one of the most daring and radical freedom movements in American history, was edited. Gone was the large, dignified portrait of Harriet Tubman. Gone was the bold quote in which she affirmed her role as a conductor on the Railroad. In her place? A curated selection of

postage stamps featuring imagery of “Black/white cooperation,” along with new, softened language that emphasized how the Underground Railroad “bridged divides” and represented lofty American ideals like liberty and freedom.

But let’s pause right there. Freedom for whom? The very question cuts to the heart of the issue. The Underground Railroad wasn’t a moment of warm-and-fuzzy cross-cultural harmony—it was a defiant act of rebellion. It was a dangerous, radical effort by enslaved Black people and their allies to dismantle a system of white supremacy that called itself “freedom.” Tubman wasn’t a mascot of unity. She was a revolutionary.

This whitewashed retelling of the Underground Railroad story immediately drew sharp criticism. Historians, civil rights advocates, and watchdog groups—including the National Parks Conservation Association—expressed outrage over the edits. As reported by The New York Times on April 8, the National Park Service scrambled to correct course. The original page, complete with Tubman’s photo and empowering quote, was swiftly restored.

A spokesperson for the NPS, Rachel Pawlitz, confirmed that these controversial changes had been made without the consent of NPS leadership or the Department of the Interior. “The webpage was immediately restored to its original content,” she told Axios.

But while the restoration is a step in the right direction, the incident is far from an isolated error. It’s part of a larger, more coordinated trend—a creeping revisionism that is actively reshaping public narratives around race, power, and American history.

The DEI Backlash and Trump’s “Restoring Truth” Agenda

This erasure of Harriet Tubman must be understood within the broader political climate, particularly in the context of Donald Trump’s executive order dismantling federal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. That order marked the beginning of a systematic rollback of efforts to acknowledge and honor the experiences of marginalized groups in the United States. Across federal agencies, content that celebrated the achievements, sacrifices, and perspectives of Black Americans, Indigenous people, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals has been targeted for removal or revision.

The Department of Defense, for example, recently took down (and then restored) an article recognizing Jackie Robinson’s military service—a story emblematic of both racial struggle and patriotism. Meanwhile, the U.S. Naval Academy pulled nearly 400 books from its library, including titles such as I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou and a biography of Trayvon Martin. These purges aren’t random—they’re part of an ideological

campaign to sanitize history and present a more palatable, unchallenging vision of America.

Trump’s camp has labeled any effort to teach America’s full, complex, and painful racial history as “revisionist” and “anti-white.” His so-called “restoring truth” platform advocates for the return of Confederate monuments, the erasure of DEI initiatives, and the marginalization of stories that center people of color. It’s a deeply ironic stance, considering the actual revision happening is the removal of truth itself.

Why Tubman’s Erasure Hits So Hard

Harriet Tubman is not just another historical figure. She’s a symbol of unyielding courage, leadership, and defiance in the face of institutional evil. She was born into slavery, escaped, and returned multiple times to lead dozens of others to freedom through a secret network of safe houses and allies known as the Underground Railroad. She wasn’t just part of the movement—she was the movement.

To remove her photo, her words, and even references to slavery from the NPS webpage isn’t just historical revisionism. It’s an act of erasure, a political move to scrub away the discomfort of American history in favor of a more sanitized myth.

The rewritten version of the Underground Railroad page tried to depict it as a moment of national unity, of people coming together under the banner of freedom. But that’s not the truth. The reality is far grittier—and far more powerful. The Underground Railroad was not approved by the state, not protected by law, and not celebrated by the mainstream. It was a revolutionary act against an unjust nation. It was freedom forged through fire, sacrifice, and secrecy. Reframing that narrative into a “feel-good” moment is an insult to the people who risked everything to break their chains.

The Danger of Sanitized History

There is a reason that authoritarian regimes, throughout history, have always prioritized control over education and historical recordkeeping. Whoever controls the narrative controls the present—and shapes the future. By deciding which stories get told, which get softened, and which get erased, those in power effectively reshape a nation’s moral compass.

There is a reason that authoritarian regimes, throughout history, have always prioritized control over education and historical recordkeeping. Whoever controls the narrative controls the present—and shapes the future. By deciding which stories get told, which get softened, and which get erased, those in power effectively reshape a nation’s moral compass.

The Harriet Tubman incident is part of this dangerous trend. It sends a message: that acknowledging the horrors of slavery is too divisive, that celebrating Black resistance is too political, and that honoring the struggle for freedom is somehow un-American.

But true patriotism isn’t about burying the past. It’s about confronting it—honestly, fully, and unflinchingly. America doesn’t need a sanitized history. It needs a truthful one. One that reflects both the ideals it proclaims and the injustices it has perpetuated.

This Isn’t Just a Website — It’s a Battle for Collective Memory

This story is about more than just a few edits on a government webpage. It’s a reflection of a much bigger battle—a battle for collective memory. A battle over what kind of country America sees itself as. A battle over who gets to be remembered as a hero, and who gets written out of the story altogether.

Erasing Harriet Tubman, even momentarily, is part of a larger effort to recast America’s racial history in a way that is easier to swallow. But that only serves the privileged. It does not serve the descendants of those who suffered. It does not serve truth. It does not serve progress.

When you remove Tubman’s face and her words from a page about the Underground Railroad, you are not just editing a website—you are rewriting the meaning of history itself. You are implying that the resistance of Black people against slavery is secondary to some imagined mutual cooperation narrative. That’s not just misleading. It’s offensive.

What We Must Do Next

Incidents like this should serve as a wake-up call. They are not small, bureaucratic oversights. They are intentional shifts in public consciousness, and they require vigilant opposition.

Educators, historians, cultural institutions, and citizens must resist these quiet erasures. That means holding agencies accountable, demanding transparency, and refusing to let the legacies of figures like Harriet Tubman be diminished or distorted.

We must teach history as it happened, not as some wish it had. That includes its brutality, its contradictions, and its moments of heroism. Tubman’s story isn’t just inspirational—it’s instructive. It shows us what courage looks like in the face of impossible odds. And in today’s cultural climate, that’s a lesson more urgent than ever.

Final Thoughts: Truth Is Not Optional

Harriet Tubman didn’t risk her life so that her story could one day be reduced to a footnote. She fought for freedom—not the symbolic kind, but the real kind. She fought for people who had no legal rights, no protections, and no status in the country that claimed to be “the land of the free.” Her legacy deserves more than a few stamps and some generic language about liberty.

If we allow her story to be rewritten, what other stories will we lose? And more importantly, what kind of future are we allowing to be built on the bones of this erasure?

Truth is not optional. And when it comes to the legacy of Harriet Tubman, we must protect it—boldly, loudly, and without compromise.

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FM Politics Trending

Plies Expresses His Political Sentiments Regarding The 2024 Biden And Harris Ticket

Plies Political Sentiments Expressed On Twitter
Plies. Image source: Neilson Barnard, Getty Image

In recent times, Hip Hop artists have risen as influential figures in shaping the national discourse on various crucial subjects, spanning from social justice and economic inequalities to weighty political matters. On September 15, one such artist, Plies, garnered considerable attention for his thought-provoking political viewpoint concerning a 2024 Biden/Harris presidential ticket. And it is something to chew on.

The Perspective at Hand

2024 is rapidly approaching, and constituents of this nation understand that with the advancing new year comes great political responsibility. Why? 2024 is a pivotal election year, and President Joe Biden stands as the presumptive Democratic nominee. Alongside him, Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to continue as his running mate.

Fundamentally, nothing is shocking about such as this is a traditional process. If desirous, the incumbent runs for re-election. However, there has been much discussion surrounding Biden’s fitness to preside for another four years, given his current age. President Joe Bidden is currently 80 years of age. At 80 years old, his potential re-election would position him as one of the oldest presidents in American history.

The concerns that naturally accompany the aging of individuals in such high-stress positions are no secret. And it is these concerns that have left many constituents feeling apprehensive about supporting this ticket.

Plies Divergence in Opinion

Plies, a well-known Hip Hop artist, has a different political opinion, which he has publicly voiced. The artist believes the apprehension surrounding a potential Biden-Harris 2024 ticket runs deeper than age-related concerns.

The artist contends that the discussions surrounding President Biden’s age serve as a facade. In a post he made, Plies stated, “The Reason This Age Thing Is Front and center with Biden Is B/c Who He Appointed As His Successor! It’s One of America’s Biggest Fears & That’s A Woman Running This Country. Let Alone One of Color! It’s Not About Kamala Harris It’s More About Two Things America FEARS! Women & Color.”

Nothing New But a Strong Indicator

While it has not gone unconsidered, it is a point of view that is not exactly often broached, perhaps due to politically correct etiquette. Plies, however, has demonstrated a willingness to bring such political viewpoints to the forefront. It underscores the fact that race and gender have consistently played significant roles in political dialogues, particularly in recent elections.

The persistence of these issues prompts us to question the extent of societal growth and progress. Should these factors persistently exert a strong influence on the choice of an appropriate national leader, it prompts significant inquiries about whether there is indeed a path toward effective change.

Looking at The Numbers

As per reports, the approval ratings for both Vice President Kamala Harris and President Biden are closely aligned. The most recent average data from The LA Times reveals that President Biden holds a favorable rating of 41% and an unfavorable rating of 54%, resulting in a net rating of approximately -13 percentage points.

Similarly, 39% of registered voters hold a favorable opinion of Vice President Harris, while 54% express an unfavorable view, translating to a net rating of around -15 percentage points. While these figures may not be considered particularly impressive, they do not indicate a definitive outcome either.

Another Look At Plies Argument

Plies’ assessment may be accurate; however, it’s essential to acknowledge that it’s a sweeping statement that may only relate to specific segments of the population. Ideally, as the decision-making moment approaches, the majority will avoid such ideologies if they harbor them. However, politics is a fickle game, and the only real determinant is time.

Written by Renae Richardson 

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FM Politics Trending

A$AP Rocky Z-shaped Chain Instagram Post Ended In A Worldwide Controversy

A$AP Rocky 'Z'-shaped Chain Instagram Post Ended In A Worldwide Controversy
A$AP Rocky at Breakout Festival 2019 in Vancouver, Canada. Image source: Andrew Chin, Getty Images.

On Feb. 24, 2022, the Russian army began invading a neighboring country, killing thousands of civilians and committing numerous war crimes for no good reason or purpose. The so-called military forces in question also drew the letter ‘Z’ on their tanks, later making it an official brand logo of the invasion.

A$AP Rocky 'Z'-shaped Chain Instagram Post Ended In A Worldwide Controversy
(Left) Letter ‘Z’ on a Russian tank in the Russia-occupied city of Mariupol, Ukraine. (Right) The letter ‘Z’ on a large-scale TV screen in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Image source: Anatoly Maltsev/Shutterstock, Alexander Ermochenko/Reuters.

With the ongoing war, even the slightest sign of support for the wrong side can spark controversy. The “Babushka Boi” artist found himself amidst one a couple of days ago.

A$AP Rocky promoted his new single on Instagram, with one of the carousel’s images being a chain shaped like a letter ‘Z.’ The letter in question also consisted of tank-shaped diamonds, which doesn’t make it any better.

A$AP Rocky 'Z'-shaped Chain Instagram Post Ended In A Worldwide Controversy
The controversial picture in A$AP Rocky’s controversial post. Image source: Instagram.

Commentators were asking Rocky if he was okay and accused the artist of supporting war crimes. Metro Boomin also showed up to leave six fire emojis in the comment section, probably rooting for the new track, not the alleged political message.

A$AP Rocky 'Z'-shaped Chain Instagram Post Ended In A Worldwide Controversy
The comment section under A$AP Rocky’s controversial post. Image source: Instagram.

In A$AP Rocky’s Defense

Considering Rocky’s self-acclaimed total apoliticism (“I’m A$AP Rocky. I did not sign up to be no political activist. I wanna talk about my mother****in’ lean, my best friend dying, the girls that come in and out of my life, the jiggy fashion that I wear, my new inspirations in drugs!”), all of it might be just a stupid mistake.

However, A$AP Rocky also never said anything regarding the ‘Z’ incident, only deleting the controversial picture.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by A$AP ROCKY (@asaprocky)

In Conclusion

All in all, the controversial situation seems like a big misunderstanding. A$AP Rocky probably should’ve known better before posting a Z-shaped chain, considering what it symbolizes for the past year and a half.

But also, as unfortunate as it is, not everyone follows the abhorrent events currently taking place in Ukraine. Especially people who consider themselves “to be no political activist.” This might not be the right choice after all, but definitely not on the same scale as supporting war crimes.

Unless, of course, A$AP Rocky somehow got involved with Kremlin.

Written by Nikita Serdiuk | IG: @nikitasrdk | Twitter: @nktserdiuk

If you want to support Ukraine, visit this link.

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Docuseries Episode About DeSantis’ Years In Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp Canceled Or Delayed

DeSantis' Years In Gitmo Show Cancels Or Delays
DeSantis speaks at the Museum of Tolerance in Jerusalem. Image source: Amir Levy, Getty Images.

Mr. “Ensures Freedom Of Speech,” Ron DeSantis might have some issues with The First Amendment when it comes to him. The most recent episode announcement of Showtime’s Vice docuseries, “The Gitmo Candidate & Chipping Away,” disappeared from Showtime’s website.

According to the episode description, it “investigates allegations from former Guantanamo Bay detainees that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis witnessed acts condemned by the United Nations as torture,”

It’s unclear whether the campaigning governor had anything to do with the disappearance of the show announcement. “We don’t comment on scheduling decisions,” someone from Showtime told both The Hollywood Reporter and TheWrap. “As with all current affairs programming, there can be scheduling changes, and we are very much still in discussion about the scheduling of this episode. We are proud of our reporting and of our continuing partnership with Showtime,” Vice also revealed to both of the media outlets mentioned above.

Potentially, Showtime and Vice intentionally deleted the controversial episode announcement. That way, we write about it, everyone notices, and in the end, the audience is more heated and eager to watch the show.

What seems clear is that DeSantis’s years in GITMO is a subject the governor would prefer to avoid discussing. When recently asked about witnessing someone going through the forced feeding in Guantanamo, Florida Gov. seemingly got a little angry, claimed the allegation “totally BS,” and then used big words like “preordained narrative” (the governor had to pause when saying this phrase, possibly because he couldn’t figure how to pronounce it correctly). 

The full version of the dispute above was also supposed to be available in the Vice episode, which never came out.

DeSantis’s Presidential Bid

Ron DeSantis announced his presidential run on May 24th, promising to “lead the great American comeback.” He also mentioned all the good Republican things in his announcement video, including border, crime, and “restoring sanity.”

Notably, the initial announcement of DeSantis’ campaign could have worked out better. It was supposed to occur in one of Twitter’s audio spaces, where Elon Musk was also present to co-host the event. However, none of the online guests could hear the candidate’s speech.

Both Trump and Biden later mocked DeSantis for a failed launch attempt.

Written by Nikita Serdiuk | IG: @nikitasrdk | Twitter: @nktserdiuk

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Top 10 Most Active US State Representatives On Twitter

us state

In the modern political landscape, social media has become an indispensable tool for elected officials to connect directly with their constituents and share their views and policies. Among the many platforms available, Twitter has gained particular popularity as a means for politicians to engage with their followers and offers a glimpse into their daily lives. But did you know that researchers at SchmidtandClark.com have delved into the tweeting habits of US state representatives to determine who the most prolific Twitter user among them is? By analyzing the estimated number of tweets per day posted by each representative since they joined the platform, they have uncovered some fascinating insights.

Furthermore, the study highlights the growing importance of social media in shaping public discourse and political narratives. With Twitter and other platforms allowing politicians to communicate with exceptional speed and reach, it’s clear that social media will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping our democracy.

1. Pramila Jayapal

Get your social media feeds ready for some serious activity because we’re about to introduce you to the top undisputed social media queen of the US House of Representatives. Pramila Jayapal, the fierce and formidable representative from Washington’s 7th district, dominates the Twitter game like no other.

US State Representative Pramila Jayapal. Credit: STAT News

Her tweet count is beyond impressive, boasting a staggering 30,400 tweets since joining Twitter in January 2017. Yes, you read that right – 30,400 tweets! That’s more tweets than some people send in a lifetime! With an average of 13.26 tweets per day, Jaypal is not just a regular user but a social media powerhouse.

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Pramila Jayapal’s Twitter page. Credit: Twitter/@RepJayapal

Her online presence is a testament to her unwavering dedication to communicating with her followers and promoting her agenda in the digital world.

Visit her Twitter page here.

2. Donald Beyer

Take note, folks, because there’s another Twitter heavyweight on the scene! Donald Beyer, hailing from Virginia’s 8th district, has been racking up an impressive number of tweets since January 2015. With a grand total of 37,900 posts to his name, he’s certainly not afraid to make his voice heard in the digital realm.

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Rep. Donald Beyer. Credit: Jay Westcott

In fact, Donald’s average tweet count is a staggering 12.50 per day. He’s rapidly sharing his thoughts, opinions, and insights with his followers. Whether he’s weighing in on the latest political news or sharing glimpses of his personal life, Donald’s Twitter feed is always buzzing with activity.

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Rep. Donald Beyer’s Twitter page. Credit: Twitter/@RepDonBeyer

Visit his Twitter page here.

3. Andy Biggs

Next on the list is Andy Biggs from Arizona’s 5th district.

Rep. Andy Biggs. Credit: The Wilkow Majority

Andy secured the third spot with an impressive 23,000 tweets, averaging roughly 10.02 tweets per day since January 2017. That’s a whole lot of content to keep up with!

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Andy Biggs’ Twitter Page. Credit: Twitter/@RepAndyBiggsAZ

Transitioning from one influential tweeter to the next, it’s clear that these representatives have truly mastered the art of social media. Whether you agree with their politics or not, there’s no denying their digital presence is enormous!

Visit his page here.

4 & 5. Adriano Espaillat and Don Bacon

Adriano Espaillat from New York’s 13th district and Don Bacon from Nebraska’s 2nd district have secured their places on the leaderboard with 19,300 and 17,900 tweets, respectively. Both representatives hopped on the Twitter bandwagon in January 2017 and have been tweeting up a storm ever since.

US State Representative Adriano Espaillat. Credit: AP

Espaillat tweets around 8.27 times per day and has an impressive track record of engaging with his constituents through social media.

Adriano Espaillat’s Twitter page. Credit: Twitter/@RepEspaillat

Meanwhile, Bacon, who is hot on Espaillat’s heels with an average of 7.78 tweets per day, has also been an active Twitter user since his first tweet.

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Rep. Don Bacon. Credit: Republican Accountability Project
Don Bacon’s Twitter page. Credit: Twitter/@RepDonBacon

Visit his Twitter page here.

6. Dwight Evans

Not to be outdone, Dwight Evans from Pennsylvania’s 3rd district has been a Twitter veteran since November 2009 and has tweeted a whopping 36,500 times.

Rep. Dwight Evans. Credit: Wikipedia

Evans, who tweets an average of 7.38 times per day, has been a social media trailblazer, using the platform to connect with his constituents, share his opinions, and promote his legislative agenda. Evans has solidified his position as a true social media maven with his extensive Twitter presence and active engagement.

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US State Representative Dwight Evans. Credit: Twitter/@RepDwightEvans

In contrast to Espaillat and Bacon, who joined Twitter in 2017, Evans has led the way on the platform for over a decade.

Visit his Twitter page here.

7. Tim Burchett

Taking the seventh spot is US state representative Tim Burchett from Tennessee’s 2nd district, who has taken the social media platform under his wing.

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Tim Burchett. Credit: Wikipedia

He’s tweeted an impressive 27,000 times since August 2011, averaging about 6.33 tweets per day. While Burchett’s numbers are slightly lower than Evans’s, he still lands higher than some other representatives on this list.

Rep. Tim Burchett’s Twitter page. Credit: Twitter/@timburchett

Visit his Twitter page here.

8. Chuy Garcia

Now, let’s look at the eighth spot and find out who’s grabbing it. It’s none other than Chuy Garcia from Illinois’ 4th district!

US State Representative Chuy Garcia. Credit: Ashlee Rezin/Sun-Times

Since joining Twitter in January 2019, Garcia has tweeted 9,553 times, averaging 6.11 tweets per day. That’s some serious dedication to keeping his followers informed.

Chuy Garcia’s Twitter page. Credit: Twitter/@RepChuyGarcia

Visit his Twitter page here.

9. Jasmine Crockett

On the other hand, US state representative Jasmine Crockett from Texas’ 30th district joined Twitter in January 2023 and already has an impressive 4,910 tweets and an average of 5.99 tweets per day. us state

Jasmine Crockett. Credit: House.gov

Twitter is the place to be for these representatives; they’re bringing their A-game! From representative Burchett’s steady 6.33 tweets per day to Garcia’s impressive 9,514 tweets since 2019 and Crockett’s strong start of 5.99 tweets per day, they’re all keeping their followers informed through their unique style and frequency of tweets.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s Twitter page. Credit: Twitter/@JasmineForUS

Visit her Twitter page here.

10. Mary Scanlon

Finally, let’s talk about Mary Scanlon from Pennsylvania’s 5th district! This social media-savvy US state representative has been making waves on Twitter since joining in November 2018. With a whopping 9,635 tweets under her belt, she’s proven to be a force to be reckoned with.

US State Representative Mary Gay Scanlon. Credit: BALLARD SPAHR

While some politicians might spam their followers’ feeds with countless posts, Mary takes a more measured approach. She tweets an average of 5.93 times per day, which may seem modest compared to some of her colleagues. However, it’s still enough to land her a spot in the top 10 US representatives who tweet the most.

Mary Gay Scanlon’s Twitter page. Credit: Twitter/@RepMGS

It’s worth noting that Mary’s tweets are far from superficial. She’s not afraid to use her platform to share her thoughts on important issues and connect with her constituents. Whether discussing education reform or advocating for affordable housing, Mary’s tweets are always thoughtful and engaging.

All in all, Mary Scanlon has a strong presence on Twitter. She may have a lower average tweet count than some of her peers, but her content is always worth a read. We can’t wait to see what she tweets next!

Visit her Twitter page here.

The Impact Of Twitter On Political Communication Among US State Representatives: Defense Attorney Mike Schmidt’s Insight

Mike Schmidt is a prominent defense attorney who recognizes the growing importance of social media, particularly Twitter, in the realm of politics.

According to Schmidt, “Social media, particularly Twitter, has become a crucial tool for politicians to connect with their followers and share their views. While some representatives tweet more frequently than others, Twitter has proven as an effective way of communication in the world of politics, which is proven by the large number of tweets posed by all US state representatives listed”.

Written by Nikiya Biggs | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn

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AOC Under Investigation For 2021 Met Gala Ensemble

AOC Under Investigation For Met Gala Ensemble
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez leaves the Met Gala in New York on Sep 13, 2021. Image source: Jamie McCarthy, Getty Images for The Met Museum, Vogue.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who represents part of The Bronx and Queens, is currently fighting some allegations against her based on a Met Gala dress.

A Congressional investigation is set to go forward.

What Did AOC Do Or Not Do?

The Bronx native wore a supposed expensive white dress that had red text across the back reading “tax the rich.”

AOC Under Investigation For Met Gala Ensemble
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and dress designer Aurora James attend the 2021 Met Gala. Image source: Mike Coppola, Getty Images.

AOC allegedly failed to pay on time for borrowed clothes and accessories. On top of that, the services she received related to her attendance at the 2021 Met Gala had payment delays.

Everything provided appears to have been “several thousands of dollars.”

Meet The Office of Congressional Ethics

The House Ethics Committee published the Office of Congressional Ethics findings last week.

According to the report, Ocasio-Cortez may have “accepted impermissible gifts” from the 2021 Met Gala. This violates House rules, the standard of conduct, and federal law.

The OCE initially launched this investigation in June 2022.

The ethics committee recommended further review of the allegation concerning Rep. Ocasio-Cortez. They think there is “substantial reason to believe that she accepted impermissible gifts associated with her attendance at the Met Gala in 2021.”

September 2021 Instagram Post

In addition, AOC made sure she covered her tracks in an Instagram post on a day after the gala, Sep 14, 2021.

The New York representative wrote this underneath a post that looked like a fitting with the dress on.

“NYC elected officials are regularly invited to and attend the Met due to our responsibilities in overseeing our city’s cultural institutions that serve the public,” AOC wrote in the post.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@aoc)

What Did The Report Say She Received?

According to the report, AOC was provided with “a couture dress, handbag, shoes, and jewelry. She also received hair, makeup, transportation, and ready-room services.”

AOC’s Office Release A Statement On The Investigation

The New York Democrat’s office released a statement opposing the allegations.

Ocasio-Cortez’s office said no violations have been found. However, the OCE did find “delays in paying vendors for costs associated with the Congresswoman’s attendance at the Met Gala.”

Written by Vhannah | YouTube | Instagram

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PETA Gifts Rihanna Faux Fur Coat

PETA Gifts Rihanna Faux Fur Coat
Pregnant Rihanna heading to dinner in Santa Monica. Image source: TPG, Backgrid.

PETA apparently felt extremely generous and wanted to gift Rihanna a faux fur coat. As many know, the fashionista is always on top of her fashion game, so it is a kind gesture for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals to add to her wardrobe. But the reasons are obvious… PETA advocates for not wearing anything of real animals.

A Letter To Rihanna

PETA decided to gift Rihanna a faux fur coat after she appeared to wear real fur to dinner. The so-called animal rights organization wrote the pregnant singer pleading their case. They attempted to compare Rihanna’s motherly instinct to animals’ maternal instinct to protect their families.

“As a mother, you know what it’s like to feel protective and to want to make sure no harm comes to your family. Please understand that this desire — this instinct even — is shared by the minks, foxes, and rabbits who are torn away from their families and killed for their fur,” the letter from the animal organization said. 

First Pregnancy Gave Unpredictable Maternity Looks From Rih

In her last pregnancy, Rihanna showed off with some unpredictable maternity looks.

However, she changed her look slightly during her second child‘s pregnancy. Ri Ri is now giving us more covered-up fashion while still remaining to strike us all with her beauty.

Second Pregnancy Givin Cozy Rih

This is one of the first looks we are catching from Robyn Fenty since her striking Super Bowl Halftime Show performance. People can’t seem to get enough of Rihanna, as PETA is not holding back in commentary on her real fur coat. Rihanna is a billionaire… not sure if we should expect anything less but her to be wearing a real fur coat, printed baggy jeans, and a sick graphic tee.

Rihanna is always pressing the envelope with her clothes and hairstyles. No one can place Rihanna in a box because she will find a way to break out of it. So good luck to PETA!

Written by Vhannah | Instagram | YouTube

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