
Article content The Maple Leafs had Grinched the Winnipeg Jets just about long enough. It was time to steal one back after Toronto’s six straight wins, in the final pre-Christmas game for both teams on Monday afternoon at Scotiabank Arena. Now it will be a bit of a bah-humbug break for Toronto, which fell 5-2, recording consecutive losses for the second time this month. While the Leafs are still a strong second in the Atlantic Division (21-12-2), coach Craig Berube was grousing before the game that details in the team’s system are slipping, including the three preceding wins. Winnipeg, leading the Central Division and tied with New Jersey atop the NHL’s overall standings, hadn’t beaten the Leafs in a few years, which included Toronto ending its eight-game win streak to start this season. Mark Scheifele’s empty-netter completed a hat trick. The Leafs had a couple of first-period chances against league save-percentage leader Connor Hellebuyck, including a breakaway by Manitoba native Connor Dewar. But it was another Connor, first name Kyle, who opened the scoring for the visitors. With Mitch Marner off on a rare penalty, a hook that spun Nino Niederreiter hard into Joseph Woll’s post. Connor pounced on a rebound before Woll could get across to his left. Connor added his 15 th goal in 23 career games against Toronto early in the second period, getting a step on defenceman Oliver Ekman-Larsson to tip in Scheifele’s pass, before the Leafs got to work with a double minor when Morgan Rielly was high-sticked. Anxious to atone, Marner delivered his own fine feed diagonally through the slot to John Tavares for his 200 th as a Leaf. Tavares became the fifth NHLer with 200 for two teams, joining Wayne Gretzky, Keith Tkachuk, Lanny McDonald and Mark Messier. Scheifele, with a Connor assist, made it 3-1 in the third, then jammed the puck through a mouse hole Woll had left trying to hug the post on a stretch pad save. Tavares added another late in the game, Nylander reaching 40 points with his second assist. Coach Craig Berube made two changes, resting workhorse defenceman Chris Tanev with what was listed as a lower body injury and winger Ryan Reaves. Philippe Myers, valued for his size and hard shot, came in, partnered with Rielly, and Pontus Holmberg replaced Reaves. Myers had a grand opportunity late in the second period alone on Hellebuyck, but was halted. The Leafs will be free to make more roster moves if they choose after they play in Detroit on Friday and the NHL holiday roster freeze is lifted. That will likely see Matt Murray recalled to play in the back-to-back against Washington. Lhornby@postmedia.com X: @sunhornbyMassive EU-South American free trade pact would reduce tariffs, but some farmers are opposed
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Panel probes kid’s removal from schoolA chorus of support is growing behind actress Blake Lively after she filed a complaint alleging sexual harassment and a smear campaign against "It Ends With Us" co-star Justin Baldoni. Actress Amber Heard on Monday became the latest celebrity to speak out on behalf of the "Gossip Girl" alum over what she says was a coordinated social media effort to tarnish her name. Over the weekend, Lively filed a complaint claiming that Baldoni and a lead producer had behaved unacceptably during the filming of box office hit "It Ends With Us." The allegations included that Baldoni -- who also directed the film -- had spoken inappropriately about his sex life, and had sought to alter the film to include sex scenes that were not in the script and had not been agreed to. They also detailed how lead producer Jamey Heath had watched Lively while she was topless, despite having been asked to turn away. But the complaint goes into great detail -- including with texts and emails -- on a PR campaign to wreck her reputation and to divert attention from any public comments she might make about the men's alleged misbehavior. This was "a carefully crafted, coordinated, and resourced retaliatory scheme to silence her, and others from speaking out about the hostile environment that Mr Baldoni and Mr Heath created," the complaint says. It includes allegations that the two men hired a crisis PR team that amplified or planted negative stories about Lively on social media platforms. "You know we can bury anyone," Melissa Nathan, a member of the team, is alleged to have said, according to messages contained in the complaint. Heard's ex-husband Johnny Depp hired the same PR team during the high-profile defamation trial between the couple in 2022, in which a jury unanimously found that Heard defamed Depp over allegations he abused her. "Social media is the absolute personification of the classic saying 'A lie travels halfway around the world before truth can get its boots on,'" Heard said in a statement carried by NBC News. "I saw this firsthand and up close. It's as horrifying as it is destructive." Heard's support came on the heels of a joint statement by America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn and Alexis Bledel, who starred with Lively in "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants." "As Blake's friends and sisters for over 20 years, we stand with her in solidarity as she fights back against the reported campaign waged to destroy her reputation," they wrote on Instagram. "Throughout the filming of 'It Ends with Us', we saw her summon the courage to ask for a safe workplace for herself and colleagues on set, and we are appalled to read the evidence of a premeditated and vindictive effort that ensued to discredit her voice." A lawyer for Wayfarer, the studio behind the film, said in a statement released to the New York Times that neither the studio, its executives, nor its PR team did anything to retaliate against Lively. "These claims are completely false, outrageous and intentionally salacious with an intent to publicly hurt and rehash a narrative in the media," lawyer Bryan Freedman wrote. The complaint was lodged with the California Civil Rights Department, and is a precursor to a lawsuit. Major Hollywood talent agency WME -- which represents Lively -- has reportedly dropped Baldoni as a client. hg/aha
With the major indexes and many stocks taking breaks from record levels, names making new highs have been scarce. But stocks that reached new peaks Thursday include ( ) and ( ). Both Mastercard stock and LPL Financial have formed bullish patterns after tight closes. Mastercard stock hit a record high Thursday, after the payment processing giant reported higher-than-expected holiday spending for the period Nov. 1 through Dec. 24, according to . Consumer , excluding car sales, and topped its 3.2% forecast. LPL Financial is a , Kyle Voigt, and is one of his top two stock picks for 2025. Mastercard Stock Hovers Near Highs On Dec. 20, Mastercard stock climbed 0.9% in heavy after the company announced it Recorded Future, enhancing its artificial intelligence threat detection. Mastercard stock fell modestly Friday in light volume following Thursday's peak. The stock has formed a with a 537.70 buy point. Shares are extended from the of a with a 490 , according to its . Mastercard stock is testing and finding support at its The payment company has produced steady earnings growth over the last three years, as seen in its factor of 11. And full-year 2024 estimates show 18% profit growth and 12% in 2025. Its revenue has increased an average 12% over the last eight quarters, with the same expected over the next four quarters. LPL Financial Tightens Up The name has gained around 26% since it broke out of a cup-with-handle base with 263.44 buy point, following LPL Financial's positive third-quarter earnings report on Oct. 30. LPL Financial also formed a four-weeks-tight pattern. Its buy point is 336.40, which is also its record high. The financial services with 11% profit growth in the third quarter, following three straight declining quarters. Revenue is expected to rise 24% in its fourth quarter before easing. The wealth management firm provides business models and financial technology to financial advisors and institutions.livestockVucevic, Dosunmu lead Bulls to season-high output in 139-124 win over Spurs with Wembanyama out
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks are rising toward records Tuesday after Donald Trump’s latest talk about tariffs created only some ripples on Wall Street, even if they could roil the global economy were they to take effect. The S&P 500 climbed 0.5% and was on track to top its all-time high set a couple weeks ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 81 points, or 0.2%, to its own record set the day before, while the Nasdaq composite was 0.5% higher, with less than an hour remaining in trading. Stock markets abroad were down, but mostly only modestly, after President-elect Trump said he plans to impose sweeping new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China as soon as he takes office. Stock indexes were down 0.1% in Shanghai and nearly flat in Hong Kong, while Canada's main index edged down by just 0.1%. Trump has often praised the use of tariffs , but investors are weighing whether his latest threat will actually become policy or is just an opening point for negotiations. For now, the market seems to be taking it more as the latter. Unless the United States can prepare alternatives for the autos, energy products and other goods that come from Mexico, Canada and China, such tariffs would raise the price of imported items all at once and make households poorer, according to Carl Weinberg and Rubeela Farooqi, economists at High Frequency Economics. They would also hurt profit margins for U.S. companies, while raising the threat of retaliatory tariffs by other countries. General Motors sank 8.2%, and Ford Motor fell 2.6% because both import automobiles from Mexico. Constellation Brands, which sells Modelo and other Mexican beer brands in the United States, dropped 3.9%. Beyond the pain such tariffs would cause U.S. households and businesses, they could also push the Federal Reserve to slow or even halt its cuts to interest rates. The Fed had just begun easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high a couple months ago to offer support to the job market . While lower interest rates can boost the overall economy and prices for investments, they can also offer more fuel for inflation. “Many” officials at the Fed's last meeting earlier this month said they should lower rates gradually, according to minutes of the meeting released Tuesday afternoon. Unlike tariffs in Trump's first term, his proposal from Monday night would affect products across the board. Trump’s tariff talk came almost immediately after U.S. stocks rose Monday amid excitement about his pick for Treasury secretary, Scott Bessent. The hope was the hedge-fund manager could steer Trump away from policies that balloon the U.S. government deficit, which is how much more it spends than it takes in through taxes and other revenue. The talk about tariffs overshadowed another set of mixed profit reports from U.S. retailers that answered few questions about how much more shoppers can keep spending. They’ll need to stay resilient after helping the economy avoid a recession, despite the high interest rates instituted by the Fed to get inflation under control. Kohl’s tumbled 17.6% after its results for the latest quarter fell short of analysts’ expectations. CEO Tom Kingsbury said sales remain soft for apparel and footwear. A day earlier, Kingsbury said he plans to step down as CEO in January. Ashley Buchanan, CEO of Michaels and a retail veteran, will replace him. Best Buy fell 4.7% after likewise falling short of analysts’ expectations. Dick’s Sporting Goods topped forecasts for the latest quarter thanks to a strong back-to-school season, but its stock lost an early gain to fall 1.4%. A report on Tuesday from the Conference Board said confidence among U.S. consumers improved in November, but not by as much as economists expected. J.M. Smucker jumped 5.4% for one of the biggest gains in the S&P 500 after topping analysts' expectations for the latest quarter. CEO Mark Smucker credited strength for its Uncrustables, Meow Mix, Café Bustelo and Jif brands. Big Tech stocks also helped prop up U.S. indexes. Gains of 2.8% for Amazon and 2% for Microsoft were the two strongest forces lifting the S&P 500. In the bond market, Treasury yields rose following their big drop from a day before driven by relief following Trump’s pick for Treasury secretary. The yield on the 10-year Treasury climbed to 4.30% from 4.28% late Monday, but it’s still well below the 4.41% level where it ended last week. In the crypto market, bitcoin continued to pull back after topping $99,000 for the first time late last week. It's since dipped back toward $91,600, according to CoinDesk. It’s a sharp turnaround from the bonanza that initially took over the crypto market following Trump’s election. That boom had also appeared to have spilled into some corners of the stock market. Strategists at Barclays Capital pointed to stocks of unprofitable companies, along with other areas that can be caught up in bursts of optimism by smaller-pocketed “retail” investors. AP Business Writer Elaine Kurtenbach contributed.Clinical and regulatory success in 2024 expected to drive value in 2025 CRANFORD, N.J. , Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Citius Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ("Citius Pharma" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: CTXR), a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development and commercialization of first-in-class critical care products today reported business and financial results for the fiscal full year ended September 30, 2024 . Fiscal Full Year 2024 Business Highlights and Subsequent Developments Financial Highlights "In fiscal year 2024 we drove tremendous progress in our pipeline. It was a transformative year, marked by our first FDA approval and significant clinical milestones. The approval of LYMPHIRTM and the positive Phase 3 results for Mino-Lok® underscore our commitment to developing innovative therapies. Our team successfully responded to FDA comments related to the biologics license application for LYMPHIR and ultimately gained FDA approval. Productive engagement with the FDA regarding the positive results of our Phase 3 Mino-Lok® trial and Phase 2 Halo-Lido trial clarified our next steps for both programs. We anticipate continued engagement with the agency in the coming year and look forward to their guidance. Additionally, we are exploring strategic partnerships and licensing opportunities to maximize the potential of our portfolio and bring these important therapies to market efficiently," stated Leonard Mazur , Chairman and CEO of Citius Pharma. "Looking ahead, our priorities for fiscal year 2025 include launching LYMPHIRTM through our majority-owned subsidiary, Citius Oncology, driving the clinical and regulatory strategies for Mino-Lok® and Halo-Lido, fortifying our financial position, and applying a disciplined approach to resource allocation. We expect to launch LYMPHIR in the first half of 2025 and distribute CTOR shares to Citius Pharma shareholders by the end of the year, pending favorable market conditions. Our goal remains to deliver value for patients, healthcare providers, and shareholders. With a clear vision and a strong team, we are well-positioned to execute on our mission of bringing innovative therapies to market," added Mazur. FULL YEAR 2024 FINANCIAL RESULTS: Liquidity As of September 30, 2024 , the Company had $3.3 million in cash and cash equivalents. As of September 30, 2024 , the Company had 7,247,243 common shares outstanding, as adjusted for the 1-for-25 reverse stock split of the Company's common stock, effected on November 25, 2024 . During the year ended September 30, 2024 , the Company received net proceeds of $13.8 million from the issuance of equity. The Company expects to raise additional capital to support operations. Research and Development (R&D) Expenses R&D expenses were $11.9 million for the full year ended September 30, 2024 , compared to $14.8 million for the full year ended September 30, 2023 . The decrease in R&D expenses primarily reflects the completion of the Halo-Lido trial and completion of activities related to the regulatory resubmission for LYMPHIR, offset by shutdown costs associated with the end of the Phase 3 trial for Mino-Lok. We expect research and development expenses to decrease in fiscal year 2025 as we continue to focus on the commercialization of LYMPHIR through our majority-owned subsidiary, Citius Oncology and because we have completed the Phase 3 trial for Mino-Lok. General and Administrative (G&A) Expenses G&A expenses were $18.2 million for the full year ended September 30, 2024 , compared to $15.3 million for the full year ended September 30, 2023 . The increase was primarily due to costs associated with pre-launch and market research activities associated with LYMPHIR. General and administrative expenses consist primarily of compensation costs, professional fees for legal, regulatory, accounting and corporate development services, and investor relations expenses. Stock-based Compensation Expense For the full year ended September 30, 2024 , stock-based compensation expense was $11.8 million as compared to $6.6 million for the prior year. The increase of $5.2 million is largely due to the grant of options under the Citius Oncology stock plan. Stock-based compensation expense under the Citius Oncology stock plan was $7.5 million during the year ended September 30, 2024 , compared to $2.0 million for the year ended September 30, 2023 , as the plan was initiated in July 2023 . For the years ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, stock-based compensation expense also includes $47,547 and $130,382 , respectively, for the NoveCite stock option plan. In fiscal years 2023 and 2024, we granted options to our new employees and additional options to other employees, our directors, and consultants. Net loss Net loss was $39.4 million , or ($5.97) per share for the year ended September 30, 2024 , compared to a net loss of $32.5 million , or ($5.57) per share for the year ended September 30, 2023 , as adjusted for the reverse stock split. The increase in net loss reflects an increase in operating expense of $5.3 million offset by a decrease of $1.6 million in other income. Operating expense increased due to increases in stock-based compensation and general and administrative expenses, which were offset by decreased research and development expense. About Citius Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Citius Pharma is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development and commercialization of first-in-class critical care products. In August 2024 , the FDA approved LYMPHIRTM, a targeted immunotherapy for an initial indication in the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Citius Pharma's late-stage pipeline also includes Mino-Lok®, an antibiotic lock solution to salvage catheters in patients with catheter-related bloodstream infections, and CITI-002 (Halo-Lido), a topical formulation for the relief of hemorrhoids. A Pivotal Phase 3 Trial for Mino-Lok and a Phase 2b trial for Halo-Lido were completed in 2023. Mino-Lok met primary and secondary endpoints of its Phase 3 Trial. Citius Pharma is actively engaged with the FDA to outline next steps for both programs. For more information, please visit www.citiuspharma.com . Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such statements are made based on our expectations and beliefs concerning future events impacting Citius Pharma. You can identify these statements by the fact that they use words such as "will," "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "plan," "should," and "may" and other words and terms of similar meaning or use of future dates. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could negatively affect our business, operating results, financial condition and stock price. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated, and, unless noted otherwise, that apply to Citius Pharma are: our ability to raise additional money to fund our operations for at least the next 12 months as a going concern; our ability to commercialize LYMPHIR through our majority-owned subisity and any of our other product candidates that may be approved by the FDA; the estimated markets for our product candidates and the acceptance thereof by any market; the ability of our product candidates to impact the quality of life of our target patient populations; risks related to research using our assets but conducted by third parties; risks relating to the results of research and development activities, including those from our existing and any new pipeline assets; our ability to maintain compliance with Nasdaq's continued listing standards; our dependence on third-party suppliers; our ability to procure cGMP commercial-scale supply; our ability to obtain, perform under and maintain financing and strategic agreements and relationships; uncertainties relating to preclinical and clinical testing; the early stage of products under development; market and other conditions; risks related to our growth strategy; patent and intellectual property matters; our ability to identify, acquire, close and integrate product candidates and companies successfully and on a timely basis; government regulation; competition; as well as other risks described in our Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings. These risks have been and may be further impacted by any future public health risks. Accordingly, these forward-looking statements do not constitute guarantees of future performance, and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Risks regarding our business are described in detail in our SEC filings which are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov , including in Citius Pharma's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2024 , filed with the SEC on December 27, 2024 , as updated by our subsequent filings with the SEC. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in our expectations or any changes in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. Investor Contact: Ilanit Allen ir@citiuspharma.com 908-967-6677 x113 Media Contact: STiR-communications Greg Salsburg Greg@STiR-communications.com -- Financial Tables Follow – CITIUS PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 AND 2023 2024 2023 ASSETS Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,251,880 $ 26,480,928 Inventory 8,268,766 — Prepaid expenses 2,700,000 7,889,506 Total Current Assets 14,220,646 34,370,434 Property and equipment, net — 1,432 Operating lease right-of-use asset, net 246,247 454,426 Other Assets: Deposits 38,062 38,062 In-process research and development 92,800,000 59,400,000 Goodwill 9,346,796 9,346,796 Total Other Assets 102,184,858 68,784,858 Total Assets $ 116,651,751 $ 103,611,150 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities: Accounts payable $ 4,927,211 $ 2,927,334 License payable 28,400,000 — Accrued expenses 17,027 476,300 Accrued compensation 2,229,018 2,156,983 Operating lease liability 241,547 218,380 Total Current Liabilities 35,814,803 5,778,997 Deferred tax liability 6,713,800 6,137,800 Operating lease liability – non current 21,318 262,865 Total Liabilities 42,549,921 12,179,662 Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' Equity: Preferred stock - $0.001 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding — — Common stock - $0.001 par value; 16,000,000 shares authorized; 7,247,243 and 6,354,371 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively 7,247 6,354 Additional paid-in capital 271,440,421 253,056,133 Accumulated deficit (201,370,218) (162,231,379) Total Citius Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Stockholders' Equity 70,077,450 90,831,108 Non-controlling interest 4,024,380 600,380 Total Equity 74,101,830 91,431,488 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 116,651,751 $ 103,611,150 Reflects a 1-for-25 reverse stock split effective November 25, 2024. CITIUS PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 AND 2023 2024 2023 Revenues $ — $ — Operating Expenses: Research and development 11,906,601 14,819,729 General and administrative 18,249,402 15,295,584 Stock-based compensation – general and administrative 11,839,678 6,616,705 Total Operating Expenses 41,995,681 36,732,018 Operating Loss (41,995,681) (36,732,018) Other Income: Interest income, net 758,000 1,179,417 Gain on sale of New Jersey net operating losses 2,387,842 3,585,689 Total Other Income Net 3,145,842 4,765,106 Loss before Income Taxes (38,849,839) (31,966,912) Income tax expense 576,000 576,000 Net Loss (39,425,839) (32,542,912) Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest 287,000 - Deemed dividend on warrant extension (1,047,312) (1,151,208) Net Loss Applicable to Common Stockholders $ (40,186,151) (33,694,120) Net Loss Per Share Applicable to Common Stockholders - Basic and Diluted $ (5.97) (5.57) Weighted Average Common Shares OutstandingPresident-elect Donald Trump and his allies have vowed to radically shift American policy from Day 1. From mass deportations to eliminating the Department of Education, Trump's policies could impact millions of people and communities across the country. However, experts say there is a big obstacle that will make it harder -- if not impossible -- for the incoming administration to implement these plans: States and municipalities. Alison LaCroix, professor of constitutional law at the University of Chicago Law School, told ABC News that the power to regulate and implement key laws lies strictly within the states and many local leaders have already been working to prepare for a possible future Trump administration. "The states have a lot of levers in the constitutional system, legal system and other systems," she said. "This usually comes as a lot of shock to people who don't know how much power they wield but we're going to soon find out how valuable they are." MORE: How Democrats are planning to fight Trump's mass deportation plan Other experts who have focused on some of the biggest sectors targeted by Trump, such as public health and immigration, agreed but said they are likely gearing up for a legal and policy fight that could last a long time. Immigration For example, Trump and his allies have been very open about their proposals to deport millions of undocumented immigrants . Trump has said he aims to remove at least 1 million immigrants living in the country illegally from the U.S. as soon as possible. Elora Mukherjee, the director of Columbia Law School's immigration clinic, told ABC News that states can't outright act as immigration enforcement for the federal government without an agreement. "It is the principle that the federal government cannot order local law enforcement to enact federal priorities," she said. Democratic governors like Gavin Newsom of California and JB Pritzker of Illinois have vowed not to assist Trump with any mass deportation plan, and Mukherjee said their claims are not empty words. She said states already showed their power during the first Trump administration by blocking Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from entering courthouses for potential raids and denying the agency detainers that would have kept jailed immigrants in custody longer without an arraignment. She added that any attempts by the Republican-controlled Congress to change immigration and deportation laws to take away rights from the states will take some time and likely be met with resistance even among Republican members who think it is too extreme. "The Trump administration will issue many executive orders, but a large number that will be illegal and unconstitutional," Mukherjee added. At the same time, Mukherjee said that conservative states and municipalities may bolster anti-immigrant policies and make it harder for migrants and asylum seekers to gain a path to citizenship. Sixty counties and police districts, many of them in Florida, have entered into 287(g) agreements with ICE, in which local law enforcement can conduct immigration policies on behalf of the federal government such as executing warrants and detaining undocumented immigrants, according to Mukherjee. Florida also passed SB 1718 last year which cracks down on undocumented immigration with several provisions, including making it illegal to transport undocumented immigrants and requiring hospitals to ask patients for their immigration status. Mukherjee stressed that states cannot try to enforce their own laws in other jurisdictions due to the 1842 Supreme Court case Prigg vs. Pennsylvania. That case, which overturned the conviction of a man convicted under a state law that prevented slave-catching, held that while federal law supersedes state law, states are not required to use their resources to uphold federal laws. "It's extremely difficult and illegal for one state to impose their laws onto another," Mukherjee said. Even when it comes to executive orders, Mukherjee said the laws are mostly on the side of states and municipalities. Trump’s "border czar" choice Tom Homan has already threatened to go after states and cities that refuse to comply with the president-elect's deportation plans, including arresting mayors . Mukherjee said there is no legal mechanism or modern legal precedent that allows the federal government to incarcerate local leaders for not adhering to an administration's policy. "Sanctuary city laws are entirely allowed within the U.S. Constitution," she said. "The 10th Amendment is extremely clear. The powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people. This is a bedrock principle of U.S. constitutional law." Public education State education officials are in the same boat when it comes to federal oversight, experts said. MORE: Can Trump deliver on his promise to ax the Department of Education? Although Trump and other allies have made it clear that they want to eliminate or weaken the federal Department of Education , funding for schools and education programs lies mostly in the hands of state legislatures and local school boards, according to Alice O'Brien, the general counsel for the National Education Association. "Those campaign promises in reality are much harder to achieve," O'Brien told ABC News. "They would require federal legislation to accomplish." Federal oversight has little control over local school curriculum policies, she added. O'Brien noted that much of the federal oversight on public schools lies outside of the jurisdiction of the Department of Education. For example, state school districts must adhere to laws set forth at the federal level such as non-discrimination against race and religion and disabilities. "States and school systems can not run in any way that conflicts with the federal Constitution," O'Brien said. When it comes to funding, although the federal DOE does provide funding as a floor to many school districts, it is a small fraction compared to the funding that comes from city and state coffers, O'Brien explained. Public health "It really comes down to a state-by-state basis in terms of how much dollars are allocated to the schools," she said. "Ultimately it really comes down to how much money the state budgets have." Dr. Georges C. Benjamin, the executive director of the American Public Health Association and former Maryland health secretary, told ABC News that state public health offices operate under the same localized jurisdiction and thus would have more autonomy on health policies. Trump's pick for the head of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has been a staunch promoter of anti-vaccination policies and has pushed for the end of fluoride in water supplies. Benjamin said he is worried about the effects of having someone with no professional health experience and public dismissiveness of proven health policies, however, he remarked that states and municipalities still hold immense power in implementing policies. Georges noted that fluoride levels in the water supply are dictated at a local level, and many counties have chosen not to implement them. Federal health agencies can make recommendations but cannot block a municipality from implementing fluoridation, he said. "There is no fiscal penalty for not following it," Benjamin said of federal recommendations. The same rules govern local vaccination requirements, he added. "[The federal government does] control vaccine mandates at the federal level, with the federal workforce, but they don't control the bulk of childhood mandates," Benjamin said. MORE: Boom, now bust: Budget cuts and layoffs take hold in public health He noted that the country saw the effectiveness and ineffectiveness of state-run public health systems during the two years that COVID-19 hit the nation and the rollout of the vaccines. Republican and Democratic states all instituted shelter-in-place and social distancing rules during the peak of cases, Benjamin said. "I do think we have a wait-and-see attitude," he said. In the meantime, several states have taken measures to bolster their state health policies, particularly when it comes to reproductive rights, through legislative action and ballot measures. Power in state prosecutors One of the biggest ways that states will be able to "Trump-proof" their laws and policies is through state prosecutors and the courts, LaCroix said. "We will see a lot of arguments in local government and what they can do," she said. Mukherjee said several state attorneys general were able to take Trump to court during his first administration and push back against immigration proposals such as his ban on residents from Muslim countries and deportation plans. Mukherjee said despite the increase in Trump-backed judges in the federal courts, there is still the rule of law when it comes to immigration. For example, earlier this year, a federal judge struck down the provision in Florida's SB 1718 that threatens felony charges for people who transport an undocumented immigrant. U.S. District Judge Roy Altman, a Trump-appointed judge, issued an injunction against that provision stating that immigration-related enforcement was not in the state's power. "It will be harder this time around to win sweeping victories for immigrants and non-citizens ... but federal judges across party lines reined in the worst abuses of the Trump administration the first time around," she said. MORE: Trump confirms plan to declare national emergency, use military for mass deportations LaCroix echoed that statement and said that partisanship can only go so far, especially when it comes to laws enshrined in the state and federal constitutions. "Judges still have to give reasons for what they do and 'because our party is in charge' doesn't hold weight," she said.Amorim sets ‘focus’ on ‘improving’ Rashford as he’s ready to ‘forget’ explosive interview by Man Utd forward
A U.S. judge has put an end to the federal criminal case accusing Donald Trump of attempting to overturn his 2020 election loss. This decision follows the prosecution's move to drop the case, citing Justice Department policy against charging a sitting president. The order from U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan concludes federal efforts to hold Trump accountable after his supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Special Counsel Jack Smith, overseeing both this and a separate case concerning classified documents, sought to dismiss the charges. This development marks a legal triumph for Trump, who won the latest U.S. election and is set to return to office in January. Further court approvals are needed, but the Justice Department stands firm in not prosecuting a sitting president, stating such actions could disrupt presidential duties. (With inputs from agencies.)The NFL removes Cowboys vs Eagles game from prime time after Jalen Hurts' concussionThomas Frank unhappy with officials in game with Brighton
The Dallas Cowboys emerged victorious in a hard-fought Week 12 battle, defeating the Washington Commanders 34-26 at Northwest Stadium. A dominant performance by linebacker Micah Parsons set the tone for Dallas , silencing speculation about the team’s future and emphasizing their fight for success. “I’m not done yet. I don’t plan on tanking. If the higher-ups are looking for a draft pick, I hope that’s ruined, because we got a lot of football left to play,” Parsons said post-game. “As long as I’m a part of this team, we’re always going to fight.” That is an admirable take for any player; it is what he must do. But that doesn't mean a franchise has to agree. "Tanking'' is a real thing, a real option. For the moment? Dallas is 4-7 and has three winnable games next up. Maybe Cowboys management will waffle on its view. In the end, the players can't run the team, but .... could Micah win an argument against any "tanking'' wishes of Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and the front office? Parsons certainly did some of his talking on the field on Sunday as he filled the stat sheet with eight tackles, two sacks, and two stuffs, consistently disrupting Washington’s offense. The Cowboys held the Commanders to four of 12 on third downs, with Parsons’ relentless pressure helping Dallas capitalize in crucial moments. Despite accumulating 411 yards of offense, the Commanders struggled to execute when it mattered most. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels threw for 274 yards and two touchdowns while leading the team with 74 rushing yards and a score, but his efforts were overshadowed by costly errors, including two interceptions. The Cowboys’ offense found rhythm behind quarterback Cooper Rush, who completed 24 of 32 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns. While Rico Dowdle added 86 rushing yards on the ground. The final minutes delivered fireworks, starting with KaVontae Turpin’s electrifying 99-yard kickoff return touchdown to push Dallas’ lead to 27-17. After the Commanders answered with an 86-yard touchdown pass to Terry McLaurin, Cowboys’ Juanyeh Thomas sealed the game with a remarkable onside kick return touchdown, securing a dramatic 34-26 victory. “I’ve never been a part of something like that. Letting them get that touchdown at the end really bothered me. But that’s what I mean when I say we’re a good team. We’re slowly putting games together.” said Parsons, reflecting on the wacky finish. Related: Did Commanders 'Underestimate' Cowboys? Dallas now shifts its focus to a quick turnaround for their Thanksgiving matchup against the New York Giants. The Giants, coming off a demoralizing 30-7 loss in quarterback Tommy DeVito’s season debut after releasing Daniel Jones, will look to rebound. The Cowboys aim to capitalize on their momentum and improve their standing with another strong performance. ... Or, at least that's what Micah and the players will want to do. Related: What's Bothering Cowboys' Micah Parsons?ALL-HUNTERDON/WARREN COUNTY TEAMS, 2024 NOTE: These teams were put together by coaches from Hunterdon and Warren Counties, not members of NJ Advance Media. FIRST TEAM D-Katie Compton, Warren Hills, Jr. D-Shivya Desai, Warren Hills, Sr. M/F-Nadia DiRe, Voorhees, So. M-Emerson Gaitan, Blair Academy F-Annika Hoyer, North Hunterdon, Sr. G-Casey Kozelnik, Blair Academy, Jr. M/F-Jillian Labar, Belvidere, Jr. D-Jackie Miller, Phillipsburg, So. G-Jordan Nonnemacher, Phillispburg, Jr. M-Emma Olsen, Hackettstown, Jr. M/D-Samantha Pinelli, Delaware Valley, Sr. D-Madeline Ridge, Hackettstown, Sr. M/D-Libby Russell, Blair Academy, Sr. D/M-Katie Sampson, North Hunterdon, So. F-Paisley Testa, North Hunterdon, So. SECOND TEAM D/M-Mia Beneducci, North Hunterdon, Jr. F-Kate Brameyer, Hackettstown, Sr. F-Emma Butler, Phillipsburg, Fr. D-Brooke Cahill, North Hunterdon, Sr. M-Addison Ehasz, Belvidere, Jr. M/D-Madeline Kardos, Belvidere, Jr. F/M-CeCe Kirkwood, Blair Academy M/D-Sophia Remian, Phillipsburg, Sr. F-Isabella Settembrini, Voorhees, Sr. M-Rylie Wyckoff, Warren Hills, Jr. F/M-Maggie Scally, Hunterdon Central, Sr. F/M-Jocelyn Sponzo, Hunterdon Central, Sr. RECOMMENDED • nj .com Field Hockey: Skyland Conference All-Division Teams, 2024 Nov. 26, 2024, 5:34 p.m. Field Hockey: Cape-Atlantic League All-Division Teams, 2024 Nov. 25, 2024, 1:36 p.m. Brian Bobal may be reached at bbobal@njadvancemedia.com . Follow him on X at @BrianBobal . The N.J. High School Sports newsletter now appears in mailboxes 5 days a week. Sign up now! Follow us on social: Facebook | Instagram | X (formerly Twitter )