NEWS
Biden And Trump Inch Closer To Debate Stage
After a full court press from Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and its allies, Joe Biden and Trump may be one step closer to meeting on the debate stage ahead of voters deciding who will hold the Oval Office next year.
Biden on Friday offered his most robust commitment to the general election debates, telling Howard Stern in a wide ranging interview that he would be “happy to” debate Trump.
“I am – somewhere. I don’t know when, I’m happy to debate him,” the president said.
In response, on Truth Social, Trump shot back, “Everyone knows he doesn’t really mean it, but in case he does, I say, ANYWHERE, ANYTIME, ANYPLACE, an old expression used by Fighters.”
The back-and-forth comes after weeks of Republicans raising the volume in their calls for debates to happen.
The calls have come in press releases, campaign memos, talking points to Republican surrogates and during interviews with allies. The core argument is simple: Trump wants to debate, and Biden owes it to the American people to stand on stage with him as soon as possible.
“Will Joe Biden Debate? That’s an issue that isn’t going away. Donald Trump makes it clear whenever he is on stage that he will debate Joe Biden anytime, anywhere, and anyplace,” read a line from a Thursday public memo issued by Trump co-campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita.
A day earlier, Kellyanne Conway, a Trump campaign manager in 2016, made a point of saying that Vice President Kamala Harris should absolutely debate whoever Trump picks as his running mate as soon as an announcement is made.
And in talking points surrogates received earlier this month that were obtained by CNN, the Republican National Committee encouraged supporters to say that “President Trump is ready to debate anytime, anyplace, and anywhere” and that “Americans deserve a full chance to see both candidates on the same stage before they start voting.
Earlier this month, the Trump campaign sent a letter to the Commission on Presidential Debates arguing that the debates should happen earlier. The campaign has not gotten a response yet. A dozen news organizations, including CNN, also released a public letter earlier this month urging Trump and Biden to participate in televised debates.
The nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates announced last year that the events were scheduled to begin in mid-September. But the campaign cycle hasn’t reached the point where the commission can assesswhere candidates are polling and whichare on the ballot to decide who can be on stage.
Trump and his team see calling for the debates as a ripe argument to make at this point, even as Republicans are looking to hammer the president on immigration and the economy while the former president spends most of his days in court.
Trump’s team is eager to get the former President on the debate stage as early as possible for a number of reasons, a source familiar with the discussions told CNN. Earlier this month, the campaign asked the Commission on Presidential Debates for this year’s general election debates to take place “much earlier.” The source cited that debates were scheduled to occur after early voting started in some areas, and they want Trump to be able to reach voters before they make a decision. “trump lawyer”
Part of the strategy is to force Biden’s team to make a decision on debates early. Trump’s team sees no downside. [Biden’s campaign] will either have to debate, and we do not think he can keep up with Trump, or explain to the American people why they’re hiding from Donald Trump,” the source said.
Trump’s team expressed confidence that the former President can excel on the debate stage. They may have gagged Donald Trump in the courtroom, but they’re not going to be able to gag him on the debate stage, Trump’s co-campaign manager Chris LaCivita said.
Trump’s record on attending debates is mixed. He eagerly attended almost all of the Republican primary debates and all of the general election debates in 2016. In 2020, the former president skipped the second general election debate after the Commission on Presidential Debates said it would be virtual amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
The former president skipped all of the Republican primary debates this cycle. But now the Trump campaign is pushing back on the notion that because Trump didn’t show up for those primary debates, Biden would not have to show up in the fall.
The Biden position
The Biden campaign isn’t in a rush to commit to any specific date or format for the general election debates, a source familiar with their thinking says. Biden’s team has watched Trump’s recent enthusiasm for the debate with some skepticism.
About two years ago, the Republican National Committee voted unanimously to withdraw from its participation in the nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates, the organization governing general-election presidential debates, citing bias. That withdrawal followed months of then-chairwoman Ronna McDaniel pressing the commission to change various practices on behalf of Trump. At one point, McDaniel threatened to “prohibit future Republican nominees from participating in CPD-sponsored debates.” (She was ousted from her job earlier this year.)
But as both Biden and Trump secured enough delegates to win their respective parties’ nominations, Trump renewed calls for debates, first the day before Biden’s State of the Union address and again earlier this month. It’s not clear to the Biden campaign what, if anything, changed since the Republican Party pulled out of the commission.
The source said the campaign does not view debates as a deciding factor in elections, but as just one piece of the overall work it is doing to get its message to voters, along with building its organization, opening offices and paid media, among other efforts, the source said. The Biden campaign has maintained a split-screen strategy in recent weeks, working to show the president governing and campaigning in battleground states while Trump has spent much of his time in a courtroom.
Why Joe Biden and Trump Debate?
Strategists and operatives who have advised statewide and presidential candidates on debating say debates still matter even as viewership of those debates has fluctuated over the years. Still, the value of having those debates extends beyond whether voters tune in to see the candidates side by side in real time.
“I think they’re important in this election because folks have a belief of what they think of what Donald Trump would do and what he did as president but they should hear that on stage in comparison to Joe Biden’s record and get a chance to compare those things head to head,” said Brett O’Donnell, the veteran Republican debate coach who has prepped Sen. Mitt Romney and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for presidential debates.
But there is also an incentive for Biden and Trump to refrain from debating this time around, said Mari Will, another longtime Republican debate coach. “trump rally”
“If I were advising either one of them I would say ‘why?’…I would say ‘why debate?’ I mean I know it’s good for the country for the voters to be involved, but I think they’re already pretty involved,” Will said. “I think most people have already pretty much made up their minds. There’s only a narrow band of persuadable. And most of those lean already and are probably going to come home before the election. So that just leaves risk.”
The risk, Will continued, is for a candidate to slip up in some way or perform poorly, essentially encouraging a negative perception and that perception dominating the media cycle for a time.
“Mostly, from my perspective, it’s not about the people watching; it’s about the media narrative that goes on for two or three days after. And then sometimes you can make ads after that,” Will said. “I tell candidates mostly it’s about the narrative. You bring up something that media people can’t help but write down.”
But skipping all debates would break with a tradition of general election candidates debating before the election going back decades. The first general election televised debate was in 1960. There was a gap that lasted until 1976 and since then the nominees of the two opposing parties and occasionally a third party candidate have participated in general election debates.
NEWS
Josh Windass Calls for Fan Support to Revive Hillsborough Fortunes
Reading Time: 4 minutesSheffield Wednesday midfielder Josh Windass has spoken openly about the team’s struggles at Hillsborough this season. With just one win in their last seven home games, the Owls have one of the worst home records in the Championship. Despite their efforts, the results at home have not matched their impressive away performances, creating frustration among fans and players alike. Windass believes that while the team must take responsibility for their home form, a little extra support from the fans could make a significant difference.
Speaking to BBC Radio Sheffield, Windass reflected on the atmosphere at Hillsborough and its impact on the players. He acknowledged that the team has been booed off at halftime during games, even when they have been performing well. This has created an uneasy environment that seems to affect the players’ confidence and composure during matches. Windass emphasized that he is not blaming the fans for the team’s poor home record but highlighted how a more supportive atmosphere could help the players deliver better results.
According to Windass, the history and stature of Sheffield Wednesday come with high expectations, which can be difficult to meet consistently. Fans, accustomed to the club’s historic success, expect the team to win, particularly against opponents perceived as weaker. However, Windass pointed out that there needs to be a sense of realism about the club’s current position and progress. While he understands the fans’ frustrations, he believes their vocal support could provide the players with the extra boost needed to turn their home form around.
Windass explained that the team’s struggles at home are puzzling, given their exceptional performances on the road. Away from Hillsborough, Sheffield Wednesday has won five of their last six games, including three consecutive victories. This impressive away form has propelled the team to ninth place in the Championship, putting them within reach of the playoff spots. However, their inability to replicate this success at home has been a stumbling block in their campaign.
The midfielder believes the pressure to perform at home is significantly higher, partly because of the expectations from the fans. He admitted that this pressure can weigh on the players, making it harder to play with the same freedom and confidence they show in away matches. Windass acknowledged that as professionals, the players must learn to manage these pressures, but he also stressed the importance of fans creating a positive and encouraging environment.
Windass also touched on the progress the team has made since last season, urging fans to appreciate the strides Sheffield Wednesday has taken. The club has faced its share of challenges in recent years, and while the current season may not yet reflect the team’s full potential, there are clear signs of improvement. He believes that fostering a strong connection between the players and supporters is crucial to sustaining this progress.
Ahead of their upcoming match against Stoke City, Sheffield Wednesday will be aiming to address their home issues and build momentum at Hillsborough. A win on Saturday could help rebuild confidence among the players and strengthen the bond with their fans. Windass and his teammates are determined to put in a strong performance and show the supporters that they are capable of delivering results at home.
For Windass, the focus remains on taking responsibility for the team’s performances and finding ways to improve. While he acknowledges the importance of fan support, he understands that the ultimate responsibility lies with the players to deliver results. He believes that with the right mindset and the backing of their supporters, Sheffield Wednesday can turn their home form around and push further up the Championship table.
The Owls’ situation highlights the challenges of balancing expectations and performance in professional football. At a club with a storied history like Sheffield Wednesday, the weight of past success can sometimes overshadow present realities. However, Windass is confident that by working together, the team and their fans can overcome these challenges and create a positive atmosphere that drives the club forward.
As the season progresses, Sheffield Wednesday will need to find consistency in their performances, both at home and away. The players and coaching staff will be working hard to identify the factors contributing to their struggles at Hillsborough and implement solutions to address them. Meanwhile, Windass hopes that the fans will continue to show their passion and support for the team, even during difficult periods.
Saturday’s match against Stoke City represents an opportunity for the Owls to turn a corner in their season. A strong performance and a positive result could set the tone for the rest of their home campaign, helping to restore confidence and belief among players and fans alike. For Windass and his teammates, the goal is clear: to deliver performances that make Hillsborough a fortress once again and give their loyal supporters plenty to cheer about.
NEWS
Novo Nordisk Faces Setback as Obesity Drug Trial Falls Short
Reading Time: 4 minutesNovo Nordisk has faced a major setback after releasing disappointing trial data for its latest obesity drug, CagriSema. The announcement caused a sharp drop in the company’s stock, with its American depositary receipts falling by as much as 28% at one point and eventually stabilizing at an 18% decline, trading at $83.87 in premarket trading. In Denmark, the company’s Copenhagen-listed shares dropped 23% by midday trading, marking a significant decline for the pharmaceutical giant renowned for its blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy.
The clinical trial for CagriSema revealed that patients who used the drug experienced an average weight loss of 22.7% over 68 weeks. While this result outperformed Novo’s older treatments, it fell short of the company’s ambitious 25% weight-loss target. Further, only 40% of trial participants achieved a weight loss of 25% or more, a figure that disappointed both investors and analysts.
CagriSema is a combination drug that merges semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, with cagrilintide, another promising component. Despite its improved performance compared to Novo’s existing treatments, CagriSema barely edged out Eli Lilly’s competing drug, Mounjaro, which demonstrated a weight reduction of 22.5% in trials. This slight difference failed to inspire confidence in Novo’s ability to deliver a market-leading product.
In contrast, shares in Eli Lilly, Novo’s primary competitor, surged following the announcement. Eli Lilly’s stock rose 9% to $825.37, reflecting investor optimism about the company’s position in the obesity treatment market. Lilly, which also produces Mounjaro and Zepbound, is now seen as a stronger competitor as it continues to challenge Novo for dominance in the lucrative market for obesity and Type 2 diabetes drugs.
Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have long been at the forefront of this market, but competition is increasing as other pharmaceutical companies work to develop their own treatments. Obesity and diabetes drugs have become a critical focus within the pharmaceutical industry due to rising obesity rates worldwide and the growing demand for effective solutions. Analysts have predicted that the market for weight-loss drugs could grow to $200 billion by the early 2030s. However, recent events have cast doubt on the extent of demand for these treatments, leading to heightened scrutiny from investors.
The disappointing trial results for CagriSema have raised questions about Novo Nordisk’s ability to maintain its leadership in the obesity drug market. The company has enjoyed tremendous success with Ozempic and Wegovy, which have gained widespread recognition for their effectiveness. However, the high expectations surrounding CagriSema underscore the intense competition and the challenges of meeting both medical and market demands.
Eli Lilly’s strong market performance highlights the shifting dynamics in the weight-loss drug sector. With its effective treatments and competitive pricing, Lilly has successfully expanded its footprint, attracting both patients and investors. The company’s stock surge following Novo’s announcement underscores its ability to capitalize on rival missteps and strengthen its position as a leading player.
Despite the challenges faced by Novo Nordisk, the potential for growth in the weight-loss drug market remains significant. Rising obesity rates and advancements in pharmaceutical science have created a substantial demand for effective treatments. However, the market is becoming increasingly crowded as more companies enter the space, intensifying competition and raising the stakes for innovation.
Novo’s setback with CagriSema also reflects broader concerns about affordability and accessibility in the weight-loss drug market. While these treatments have demonstrated significant potential, their high cost has raised questions about their accessibility to a broader population. Addressing these concerns will be crucial for companies aiming to sustain growth in this sector.
The future of obesity and diabetes treatments will likely hinge on the ability of companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly to navigate these challenges and continue to innovate. The clinical trial results for CagriSema serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in developing breakthrough drugs that meet both clinical and market expectations.
For Novo Nordisk, the focus will now shift to rebuilding investor confidence and addressing the shortcomings highlighted by the trial data. The company has a strong history of success in the obesity and diabetes markets, but it will need to demonstrate its ability to adapt and innovate in the face of growing competition.
Eli Lilly, on the other hand, is well-positioned to capitalize on its recent success. The company’s diverse product portfolio and strategic moves to expand its market presence have strengthened its competitive advantage. Lilly’s ability to maintain momentum and continue delivering strong results will be critical to its long-term success.
As the market for obesity drugs continues to evolve, the race to innovate will intensify. Both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly will need to address key challenges, such as improving affordability, demonstrating long-term efficacy, and navigating the complexities of regulatory approval. The stakes are high, but the potential rewards are even higher, as the demand for effective weight-loss treatments continues to grow.
Novo Nordisk’s disappointing trial results have undoubtedly dealt a blow to the company’s stock and market reputation. However, the broader outlook for the weight-loss drug market remains optimistic. With continued advancements in pharmaceutical science and a growing focus on addressing global health challenges, the future of obesity and diabetes treatments holds promise, even amid the current setbacks. The coming months will be critical for Novo Nordisk as it works to recover from this setback and reaffirm its position as a leader in the pharmaceutical industry.
NEWS
WWE Raw Enters New Era: Netflix Debut Sparks Excitement
Reading Time: 4 minutesWWE is preparing for a significant milestone as Monday Night Raw makes its highly anticipated move to Netflix on January 6. This transition marks a new chapter for the company’s flagship program and aligns with WWE’s vision of expanding its audience and enhancing its storytelling. To commemorate this change, Paul “Triple H” Levesque, WWE’s Chief Content Officer, unveiled a bold new logo for Raw in an exciting video shared across social media. Triple H highlighted the importance of the new design, describing it as an identity that captures the essence of the show. He called it “real, rebellious, and raw,” signifying the show’s enduring appeal and unique character.
The move to Netflix is a strategic decision that positions WWE at the forefront of the evolving entertainment landscape. Netflix’s reach and influence as a global streaming giant make it a perfect partner for WWE as the company aims to attract a wider audience. The decision to transition Raw to Netflix reflects WWE’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in a rapidly changing media environment. Fans can expect a refreshed experience, starting with Raw’s debut at the state-of-the-art Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.
The premiere episode of Raw on Netflix promises to be a monumental event. WWE has announced appearances by some of its most iconic stars, including John Cena, Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, and Bianca Belair. The inclusion of CM Punk, who recently returned to WWE in a highly publicized moment, has generated even more excitement. WWE has also teased the presence of surprise guests, ensuring that the debut episode will be packed with memorable moments and high-energy performances.
This move to Netflix is not just about Monday Night Raw. The streaming platform will also serve as the home for all WWE shows and specials outside the United States. This includes premium live events such as WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and the Royal Rumble. Additionally, WWE’s award-winning documentaries and original series will become available on Netflix in 2025, providing fans with a deeper look into the lives of their favorite wrestlers and the behind-the-scenes action that defines WWE’s brand of sports entertainment.
WWE President Nick Khan expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing Netflix’s storytelling capabilities and its status as a leading entertainment brand. He described Netflix as an ideal long-term home for Raw’s live and growing fan base. Khan’s statement underscores WWE’s commitment to delivering high-quality content to fans around the world and exploring new ways to connect with audiences.
The choice of the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles for Raw’s Netflix debut adds another layer of excitement. This cutting-edge venue is expected to enhance the fan experience and provide a dynamic setting for the launch of Raw’s new chapter. WWE is pulling out all the stops to ensure that the premiere episode on Netflix is a spectacular event, blending dramatic storylines with thrilling in-ring action.
Netflix’s foray into live sports is a relatively new venture, but the platform has already made a significant impact. In 2024, Netflix streamed several high-profile events, including the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match and a special tennis exhibition featuring Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz. These events demonstrated Netflix’s ability to host live programming and engage audiences in new and exciting ways. Partnering with WWE allows Netflix to further expand its live sports offerings and attract a dedicated fan base.
Triple H’s excitement about the move was evident in his video announcement, where he spoke passionately about the new logo and what it represents. For Triple H, the logo is more than just a design—it’s a symbol of Raw’s legacy and its future. His statement, “A logo is an identity,” encapsulates the significance of this change and the excitement surrounding Raw’s transition to Netflix.
The addition of CM Punk to the premiere episode has been a particular highlight for fans. Punk’s return to WWE earlier this year was one of the most talked-about moments in wrestling, and his involvement in Raw’s Netflix debut has only heightened anticipation. With a mix of legendary performers and rising stars, WWE is setting the stage for an unforgettable start to this new era.
The move to Netflix also signifies a shift in how WWE content will be consumed. By making its programming available on a global streaming platform, WWE is ensuring that fans have easier access to their favorite shows and events. This partnership with Netflix is expected to revolutionize the viewing experience, making WWE content more accessible and engaging than ever before.
As the January 6 debut approaches, excitement continues to build among fans and within the wrestling community. WWE is promising a show that will not only celebrate Raw’s history but also set the tone for its future. The star-studded lineup, combined with the new logo and Netflix’s global reach, positions Raw for unprecedented success. With this move, WWE is reaffirming its status as a leader in sports entertainment and taking bold steps to secure its place in the digital age.
The partnership between WWE and Netflix represents a meeting of two entertainment powerhouses. Both brands are known for their ability to captivate audiences and deliver unforgettable moments. By coming together, they are creating new opportunities for storytelling and fan engagement. For WWE, this is more than just a move to a new platform—it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter that promises to redefine Monday Night Raw and elevate the WWE brand to new heights.
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