News by Raheem Soto
News by Raheem Soto on South Shore Press
Aid Over Security: Schumer's Legislative Agenda Under Fire for Neglecting Border
House Speaker Mike Johnson's (R-La.) recent rejection of a bipartisan Senate proposal for foreign aid, including significant support for Ukraine and Israel, has brought into the limelight the deepening divide between legislative priorities and the urgent domestic issues facing the nation. This standoff raises new questions about Congress's ability to assist foreign allies ahead of the crucial November elections, spotlighting Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's (D-N.Y.) contentious approach to the bill's passage.
Cruz Condemns 'Steaming Pile' Border Bill, Demands Real Solutions
In a forceful address during a Senate Republican press briefing, Senator Ted Cruz of Texas vehemently criticized the recently proposed bipartisan border bill, declaring it not only inadequate but a "terrible" piece of legislation. The senator's remarks come amid a heightened national debate over border security and immigration reform.
Legal Showdown: Trump to Face Trial Without Presidential Shield
In a pivotal moment for the American judiciary, a federal appeals panel has decisively ruled that former President Donald Trump cannot claim immunity from prosecution concerning his efforts to contest the 2020 election results. This ruling, delivered by a panel that includes two appointees of President Joe Biden and one Republican-appointed judge, marks a significant development in the ongoing legal debates surrounding presidential powers and accountability.
Romance and Racketeering: Fulton DA's Conduct Questioned Amid Trump Prosecution
In a significant twist to the ongoing legal battle surrounding former President Donald Trump and his co-defendants, allegations have emerged questioning the integrity of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and prosecutor Nathan Wade. Michael Roman, a co-defendant in the case, has filed a motion suggesting that a personal connection initiated before the election case against Trump may have compromised the professional relationship between Willis and Wade.
Transparency Troubles: Scrutiny Over Hochul's $15 Million Economic Boost
Governor Kathy Hochul's recent rollout of a $15 million economic development package has sparked controversy amid revelations that a significant portion of the funds appears to be earmarked for projects closely associated with her major donors, political allies, and Democrat-led regions. The allocation, intended to support 19 projects across New York State under the Regional Economic Development Council initiative, has drawn criticism for what some see as a lack of impartiality and transparency in the selection process.
New York Lawmakers Urge Hochul and Adams to Halt Funding Amid Migrant Crisis
A coalition of New York's congressional representatives, in a bold move on February 7, 2024, issued a stark letter to Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams, calling for an immediate cessation of taxpayer dollars being funneled into efforts that, they argue, exacerbate New York City's escalating migrant crisis. The letter, signed by nine Members of Congress, including Nick LaLota, Nicole Malliotakis, and Elise Stefanik, among others, positions the crisis as a direct consequence of the Biden Administration's immigration policies and the sanctuary city protocols upheld by state and city leadership.
Current Affairs: Battery Storage Plan Lights Up Community Concerns
The proposed installation of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) has sparked concern among residents living close to the planned facility. Homeowners are voicing their apprehensions about the potential impacts on their daily lives and the environment.
Charting a Greener Path: Suffolk's Roundtable Tackles Water Quality and Erosion
In Riverhead's educational and culinary heart, the Suffolk County Community College Culinary Arts and Hospitality Center set the stage for a pivotal gathering of environmental minds. The annual Environmental Roundtable, orchestrated by Senator Anthony Palumbo alongside Assembly Members Fred Thiele, Jodi Giglio, and Ed Flood, convened a diverse coalition of lawmakers, environmental advocates, and community stakeholders dedicated to charting a sustainable path for Suffolk County.
Fiscal Fiasco: U.S. Border Needs Sidestepped for International Interests?
Amidst the backdrop of a deeply divided political landscape, a $118.28 billion legislative package, ostensibly designed to enhance U.S. border security and immigration reform, has instead allocated a significant portion of its resources towards international aid, primarily Ukraine. This decision has sparked a contentious debate over legislative priorities, particularly given the acute challenges faced by U.S. border communities amidst unchecked immigration.
GOP Blasts Senate Border Bill: A Pathway to Rubber-Stamping Amnesty
In a decisive challenge to the Senate's ambitious $118 billion immigration and border security proposal, Republican lawmakers are raising alarms over what they perceive as a dangerous pathway to indiscriminate amnesty. The bill, designed to revamp immigration policies and bolster border defenses, is now under intense scrutiny for potentially undermining the nation's immigration system integrity through provisions that GOP members argue could facilitate unchecked immigration.
Snoop Dogg Now Joins Ranks with Trump Supporting Hip-Hop Heavyweights
In a surprising turn of events that has shaken both the entertainment and political worlds, Snoop Dogg, the famous rapper and former critic of Donald Trump, has publicly announced his support for the former president. This unexpected change of heart is due to Trump's pardon of Michael "Harry-O" Harris, a key figure in the hip-hop industry and co-founder of Death Row Records, who was released from prison after serving more than thirty years. This act of mercy by Trump has caused Snoop Dogg to reconsider his stance on the former president, resulting in his public endorsement that has sparked widespread discussion about its potential implications for the African American vote and the broader landscape of political affiliations and perceptions within the community.
Trump Maintains Spot on Illinois Ballot Despite Primary Race Tensions
As the 2024 presidential election looms nine months away, recent national polls unveil a razor-thin margin between former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, illustrating a divided electorate's leanings. The latest Quinnipiac University poll places Biden ahead with a 50% to 44% lead among registered voters, a notable jump from a marginal lead in December. This poll showcases Biden's strengthening position, particularly among female voters, where he enjoys a 58% to 36% advantage over Trump.
Border Battle: GOP Moves to Impeach DHS Chief Amid Policy Disputes
A week after House Republicans initiated impeachment proceedings against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the political landscape remains sharply divided over the historic move. The GOP, citing allegations of legal violations related to border security and immigration policy, is pressing ahead with charges that could see Mayorkas become the first Cabinet secretary to face impeachment in nearly 150 years.
Georgia Legislation Targets Prosecutorial Misconduct Amid Willis-Trump Legal Showdown
In a pivotal development within Georgia's legal and political arena, the Georgia House of Representatives has passed a bill that could significantly impact the prosecutorial landscape, particularly for Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who is currently embroiled in a high-stakes legal showdown with former President Donald Trump. The bill, known as House Bill 881, was approved on January 29 by a vote of 95-75, strictly along party lines, and has now been forwarded to the Senate for further debate. This legislation seeks to revive an oversight panel with the authority to discipline and remove county prosecutors accused of misconduct. This move could directly affect Willis amid allegations about her handling of the Trump case.
Racial Data Collection Law in NYC Raises Questions on Policing Practices
Despite the intention to enhance transparency and curtail racial bias in policing, the law has faced criticism from various quarters, including Mayor Eric Adams. A former NYPD sergeant, Adams has expressed concerns that the new requirements might divert officers' focus from public safety to bureaucratic record-keeping. "Police officers are forced to fill out additional paperwork rather than focus on helping New Yorkers and strengthening community bonds," Adams stated, highlighting the apprehension that the law could compromise the efficacy of police work.
Palumbo Eyes Re-election: A Commitment to Suffolk's Future
Senator Anthony H. Palumbo has announced his bid for re-election to the New York State Senate, underscoring a comprehensive legislative agenda focused on key issues such as affordable housing, public safety, bipartisan collaboration, and education funding. Palumbo, who has served the First Senatorial District following a tenure in the New York State Assembly and an initial career in the Suffolk County District Attorney's office, is poised to continue his efforts in making Suffolk County a safer and more affordable place to live.
From Albany to the Border: N.Y. Republicans Push for National Guard Deployment
Amidst the escalating migrant crisis at both the southern and northern U.S. borders, New York State Republican leaders have taken a decisive stand. Assemblyman Will Barclay and Senator Rob Ortt have directly appealed to Governor Kathy Hochul, urging the New York State National Guard deployment to Texas and along the New York-Canadian border. This bold request seeks to bolster efforts to curb the illegal flow of migrants into the country, spotlighting a deepening national issue at New York's doorstep.
Brookhaven Celebrates Early Spring Prediction at Holtsville Hal's Groundhog Day Event
Among those in attendance were Brookhaven Town Councilman Michael A. Loguercio Jr., Deputy Supervisor Neil Foley, Town Clerk Kevin J. LaValle, and Daniel P. Losquadro, Superintendent of Highways. A sense of camaraderie and excitement marked the gathering as attendees eagerly awaited Holtsville Hal's forecast.
Stephanie Bontempi Spearheads New Era for Suffolk's Education & Diversity
Legislator Stephanie Bontempi has been named chair of the Education and Diversity Committee, with Legislator James Mazzarella serving as vice chair. This committee is tasked with a wide range of responsibilities, from overseeing Suffolk County Community College to managing diversity initiatives across the county.
Trumbull County Officials Risk Personal Liability in Commissioner's Free Speech Lawsuit
In a ruling with potential repercussions for free speech and official accountability, U.S. District Judge Philip Calabrese has determined that several Trumbull County Ohio officials could be personally liable for damages if found responsible for the false arrest of County Commissioner Niki Frenchko. This case stems from an incident on July 7, 2022, where Frenchko was removed and handcuffed by sheriff's deputies during a commissioners meeting.
Daily Feed
South Shore Press is Around the World: Dispatch From New Zealand
South Shore Press reporter Robert Chartuk is halfway around the world, having crossed the Equator to file this report:
Ward Melville's Athletic Trainer Wins Alumni Award
Ward Melville's Athletic Trainer and Science Teacher Claudine Weiner recently was awarded the Outstanding Alumni Award from Stony Brook University.
Coach Desi Honored
This weekend the Suffolk County Baseball Coaches Association honored legendary Coach Al Desiderio.