The latest edition of Fox News First brings updates on key legal and political developments, including the cross-examination of the first witness in Trump's impeachment trial and the pivotal Supreme Court arguments on presidential immunity.
President Trump's legal team is poised to grill the first witness in his impeachment trial, Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman, during cross-examination. Vindman's testimony could provide insights into the alleged quid pro quo involving military aid to Ukraine and the investigation into former Vice President Joe Biden. The defense is expected to challenge Vindman's credibility and motives, as well as the accuracy of his interpretation of events.
The Supreme Court heard pivotal arguments in the case of Trump v. Vance, which challenges the president's broad immunity from criminal prosecution while in office. Trump's legal team argued that the Constitution grants him absolute immunity, while the Manhattan District Attorney's office maintained that he does not have blanket immunity from potential criminal investigations. A decision in the case could have significant implications for the ongoing probe into Trump's financial dealings.
Columbia University has canceled its main stage commencement ceremony in response to protests and demands to divest from fossil fuel companies. The decision has sparked backlash from students and alumni, who argue that the university is silencing free speech and caving to the demands of a vocal minority. The incident has raised questions about the role of political activism on college campuses and the limits of free expression.
The Atlanta Falcons have pulled off a major upset in the NFL draft, selecting consensus All-American tight end Kyle Pitts with the eighth overall pick. The move surprised many experts, who expected Pitts to be selected much higher. Pitts is considered one of the most talented and versatile tight ends in the draft, and his addition gives the Falcons a potential game-changer on offense.
Supermodel Gisele Bündchen was reportedly pulled over for speeding in Boston and broke down in tears while speaking to a police officer. According to reports, Bündchen was driving her husband Tom Brady's car when she was stopped for speeding. She was not arrested or cited for the violation. The incident has drawn attention to the emotional toll that can accompany traffic stops.
A group of House lawmakers is urging major donors to cut off funding to Columbia University in response to the anti-Israel protests and its decision to cancel its main stage commencement ceremony. The lawmakers argue that Columbia is fostering an environment of intolerance and discrimination against Jewish students. The university has defended its actions, saying that it is committed to free speech and inclusivity.
An expert on counterterrorism has argued that the similarities in campus anti-Israel protests across the country suggest the involvement of foreign influence, potentially including Hamas. The expert, Dr. Matthew Levitt, pointed to the use of similar language and tactics by student groups on multiple campuses. He called for universities to take a stronger stance against hate and extremism.
President-elect Joe Biden's proposed tax hikes could have a devastating impact on the economy, according to experts. Biden has proposed increasing the corporate tax rate from 21% to 28% and raising the top marginal income tax rate from 37% to 39.6%. Economists warn that these hikes could stifle investment, slow economic growth, and lead to job losses.
Republican Kevin O'Connor has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Elizabeth Warren. O'Connor, a former prosecutor, said that Warren has "disappointed Massachusetts more than any politician in our state's history." He criticized Warren's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and her support for socialist policies.
Several students who were accepted to Columbia University have announced that they will not attend due to the antisemitic climate on campus. The students, who are Jewish, said that they felt unsafe and unwelcome at the university. Their decision highlights the growing concerns about antisemitism and free speech on college campuses.
