An unfortunate incident occurred at the Real Plaza shopping mall in Trujillo, Peru, on February 21, 2025, when the iron roof of the food court collapsed around 8:41 pm local time. The calamity led to the death of eight individuals, including three children, and left about 82 injured, with 11 children aged between two and ten in critical condition. The incident occurred in an area bustling with families enjoying a quiet evening out.
The Real Plaza Trujillo, located along the northern coast of Peru, stands as the second-largest shopping mall in the city of Trujillo.
In a press conference on February 22, Peru’s Defense Minister Walter Astudillo shared an initial report on the fatalities. He confirmed that five people died at the location, and another person died later in a hospital. The death toll rose to eight after his announcement. Astudillo expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.
Among the casualties were nine children aged between 10 and 12.
Emergency services and rescue teams were quickly dispatched to the scene to look for survivors possibly trapped under the debris. Luis Roncal, the local fire department chief, confirmed no signs of life were detected by rescue dogs.
A witness described the horrific moment when the structure collapsed to the U.K. newspaper Metro, stating: “There was a very loud noise and then a cloud of dust where the roof caved in.”
Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez estimated that the collapsed roof area covered about 8000 square feet. The rescue operation was challenging due to the weight of the fallen structure and the requirement for specialized equipment.
“We need hydraulic cranes to lift part of the roof that has not yet been removed because it is so heavy and to continue rescue operations for those who may be trapped,” Santiváñez explained.
The Regional Emergency Operations Centre reported a delay in the emergency response due to the collapse being reported 30 minutes after the occurrence. The rescue operation also received criticism for the lack of appropriate machinery.
Over 100 firefighters and police officers were on the ground, meticulously sifting through the debris for signs of survivors.
In response to the incident, Trujillo’s Mayor Mario Reyna announced the immediate closure of the shopping center due to the risk it posed and revealed plans for his government to inspect other shopping centers in the vicinity.
A spokesperson for Real Plaza expressed deep regret over the incident and offered condolences to the families of the deceased. The spokesperson confirmed that they are working closely with the authorities to provide support to the victims and assist in the investigation of the collapse’s cause.
In Lima, President Dina Boluarte emphasized the importance of aligning private investment with social responsibility and prioritizing public safety over economic interests. She has been widely criticized for implementing a law that requires municipalities to lift temporary closures of establishments within 48 hours.
The exact cause of the collapse is still under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest that environmental factors, such as the heavy iron roof structure weakening over time and water accumulation from heavy rainfall, may have contributed to the collapse. However, officials have yet to confirm any specific cause.
- TV Celebrity Pleads With Trump for Pardon
Joseph Maldonado-Passage, better known as Joe Exotic of “Tiger King” fame, has made a plea from prison for President Donald Trump’s intervention to halt the deportation of his husband or enable his transfer to a Mexican prison.
During a phone interview from the Federal Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas, Maldonado-Passage disclosed that his husband, Jorge Marquez, a Mexican national, is under threat of imminent deportation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
According to Maldonado-Passage, despite Marquez having no drug or firearm charges, he is being deported because he was in the US illegally and was apprehended while riding with two friends who were charged with trafficking each other. This led to their pending deportation to Mexico.
The 62-year-old former zoo owner, currently serving a 21-year sentence for attempting to organize a hit on animal rights activist Carole Baskin and for wildlife violations, expressed concern over the possibility of being separated from Marquez, who he refers to as his pillar of support during his health challenges.
Maldonado-Passage stated that although ICE initially planned to deport Marquez on March 3, 2025, the procedure was postponed until May due to issues with legal documentation. He interpreted this move as a personal slight, noting that the new date was just two days before his birthday, which he claimed could be intentional and not a coincidence.
In his bid to prevent his husband’s deportation, Maldonado-Passage has written to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum requesting an international prison transfer to be nearer to Marquez once he is deported.
Maldonado-Passage also mentioned that he has asked President Sheinbaum to intercede with President Trump to commute his sentence to time served, allowing him to relocate to Mexico if his husband cannot stay in America.
He even proposed a monetary incentive to Trump, referring to an alleged White House plan to introduce “gold cards” for wealthy immigrants. “If I had $5 million, I’d give President Trump five million bucks,” he said. “Unfortunately, I’m a poor American. That just worked my whole life for the American dream that they took away from me.”
The potential separation has taken a heavy emotional toll on Maldonado-Passage. He disclosed that before knowing Marquez, he prayed daily for his heart to stop, and that remains his sole prayer today—asking for an end to his suffering.
Marquez, 33, and Maldonado-Passage got married in a prison ceremony, slated to be showcased in an upcoming documentary titled “The Exotic Truth.” The duo met while both were in the Federal Medical Center and formed a bond as Marquez assisted Maldonado-Passage with his health issues, which include cancer and other severe medical conditions.
Maldonado-Passage described how challenging and bleak life without Marquez would be, asserting his commitment to his husband and stating that he would not seek another partner regardless of whether Marquez is in the U.S. or Mexico.
Maldonado-Passage has consistently professed his innocence throughout his incarceration. He asserted that he had never acted in a way that warranted imprisonment, highlighting that he had lived 55 years without a speeding ticket. He said his life’s work has been dedicated to aiding sick children, homeless individuals, and fundraising for various charities, arguing that he could be more useful to society outside prison rather than observing other inmates use drugs and alcohol daily.
Claiming to be a “political prisoner,” he alleged that he was imprisoned to enable the passage of the Big Cat Safety Act. “I consider myself a political prisoner because they wanted to pass the Big Cat Safety Act and put me in prison. I was convicted on hearsay and I’ve been kidnapped by the government,” he stated.
Health concerns have been a significant issue during his incarceration. Maldonado-Passage, who suffers from an autoimmune deficiency disorder, has faced significant health challenges in prison, including constant flu, vomiting, and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. He reported nearly dying from “aggressive” prostate cancer before having potentially harmful colon polyps removed and fears he may also have lung issues.
Maldonado-Passage also claimed he contracted scabies during a prison outbreak, which he attributed to unsanitary conditions, including rat infestations. He alleged that his living conditions are worse than those of any animal he kept at his zoo, despite being in America, but fears providing evidence would result in solitary confinement.
He highlighted the crucial role Marquez has played in his care, describing him as his only support. He stated that his husband had been there for him throughout his illness, even helping him during episodes of vomiting. With no living parents and no one outside prison, Maldonado-Passage emphasized his love for his husband and his desire to spend his life with him.
Despite his current circumstances, Maldonado-Passage is attempting to revive his public image through a new documentary series titled “The Exotic Truth,” which will be managed by Emmy-winning documentarian Serena DC. The series aims to reveal unexplored aspects of Maldonado-Passage’s vibrant life and his account of events depicted in the Netflix series “Tiger King,” which propelled him to fame five years ago.
Maldonado-Passage stated that no one knows his real story and the truth behind “Tiger King,” and it’s time to tell it. He mentioned that Serena was the first to interview him face-to-face in seven years.
Serena expressed enthusiasm about the project: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear his story directly from him – raw, unfiltered, and straight from prison. Joe has so much to say about his conviction, the betrayals he’s faced, and the shocking truths that the world needs to hear.”
The documentary, slated for release in 2025, promises an unvarnished look at Maldonado-Passage’s story and allegations about his conviction. According to Serena, if Maldonado-Passage’s claims are verified, it would represent a chilling example of how words can be weaponized.
Currently, Maldonado-Passage remains in federal custody while he continues his legal battle and awaits the resolution of his husband’s immigration case. His sentence was reduced by one year in January 2022, bringing it down to 21 years, but he continues to hope for either a successful appeal or a presidential pardon that would allow him to reunite with Marquez.
- Harry Potter Actor Dead at 63
British actor Simon Fisher-Becker, known for his roles in “Harry Potter” and “Doctor Who,” has died at the age of 63. His passing on March 9, 2025, was confirmed by his manager, Kim Barry of Jaffrey Management, and by his husband, Tony Dugdale.
“Today I lost not only a client in Simon Fisher-Becker, but a close personal friend of 15 years standing,” Barry told The Post in a statement.
Fisher-Becker was perhaps best known for portraying the Fat Friar ghost in the 2001 film “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” His character was Hufflepuff House’s resident ghost in the film, which was titled “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” in the UK.
Barry spoke fondly of the actor’s diverse talents beyond the screen, sharing that he was also a writer and an excellent public speaker.
Tony Dugdale confirmed the news through a post on Fisher-Becker’s Facebook account.
Born on November 25, 1961, in London, England, Fisher-Becker built a diverse acting career across stage, television, and film. While his appearance as the Fat Friar in the first Harry Potter film brought him recognition with global audiences, he was equally known for his role as Dorium Maldovar in the BBC’s “Doctor Who” series, appearing in Seasons 5 and 6.
His portrayal of Dorium Maldovar continued beyond the television series, as he reprised the role in audio dramas including “Doctor Who: The Eleventh Doctor Chronicles” and “Jenny — The Doctor’s Daughter” in 2018 and 2021, extending his connection with the beloved franchise.
Fisher-Becker’s talents extended to many other British television productions. He played Tony Fazackerley in the 2014 BBC comedy series “Puppy Love.” His extensive television credits included appearances in classic British shows such as “One Foot in the Grave,” “The Bill,” “Love Soup,” “Afterlife,” “Doctors,” and “Getting On.”
His film career included a role in the 2012 Oscar-winning film “Les Misérables” as part of the ensemble cast. Other film appearances included “Arrivederci Millwall,” “Beg!,” “Sweet Thing,” and most recently, the 2023 thriller “Disaster Dates 2.”
According to his IMDb profile, Fisher-Becker described himself as a character actor with a forte in comedy but equally at home with drama. His extensive experience spanned the entire spectrum of the entertainment industry, from Shakespeare to pantomime, and included work in film, television, radio, and web series.
Beyond acting, Fisher-Becker developed and performed his own one-man shows and was active as a motivational speaker. His IMDb profile noted that he “could conduct a full Symphony and Choir,” highlighting his diverse range of talents.
At the time of his death, Fisher-Becker had several projects in the pipeline. These included roles in the comedy-drama “Henry House,” the TV movie “Humber City: The Rising Tide,” and the films “Welcome to Paradise” and “The Director,” indicating that his career remained active until his passing.
The news of Fisher-Becker’s death prompted tributes from colleagues and fans alike. Dominic G. Martin, a fellow actor, remembered him as a “legend” in the “Doctor Who” fan community. Martin noted that friends who had worked with Fisher-Becker spoke highly of his character, emphasizing his positive impact on those around him.
Big Finish Productions, the company responsible for producing “Doctor Who” audio dramas in which Fisher-Becker participated, also expressed their condolences, recognizing his contribution to the expansion of the Doctor Who universe beyond television.
While Fisher-Becker’s passing has left a void in the British entertainment industry and among fans of the franchises he contributed to, his legacy lives on through his memorable performances across various media formats. No cause of death has been disclosed at this time.
- NBC News Unveils Major Anchor Shakeup
On March 5, 2025, NBC News revealed that its senior national correspondent, Tom Llamas, will succeed Lester Holt as the anchor and managing editor of “NBC Nightly News.”
Llamas, a 45-year-old Miami, Florida native, will commence his new duties in the summer. He will make history as the first Latino journalist to host the weeknight edition of the esteemed news show. While fulfilling his new role, Llamas will continue to anchor “Top Story with Tom Llamas” on NBC News NOW.
NBC News’ Executive Vice President of programming, Janelle Rodriguez, praised Llamas for his journalistic excellence, passionate storytelling, and unwavering integrity, citing these traits as the cornerstones of “NBC Nightly News.”
Llamas expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and expressed his excitement about collaborating with the proficient journalists at “Nightly News” and “Top Story.” He also paid tribute to Holt, recognizing him as “a great man” and a “trusted broadcaster.”
After a decade of anchoring “NBC Nightly News,” Holt will transition to a full-time role at “Dateline NBC.” During an internal staff call, Holt expressed confidence in Llamas as his successor.
Llamas’s journey in journalism began with an internship at a local Telemundo station and a stint as an overnight production assistant at NBC News. His career evolved through roles at WTVJ in Miami, Florida, and WNBC in New York, New York, before he joined ABC News in 2014 as the weekend anchor of “ABC World News Tonight.”
While at ABC, Llamas made headlines during the 2016 presidential campaign when he questioned then-candidate Donald Trump about discrepancies in reports surrounding funds raised for veterans groups during a televised event. Trump responded by labeling Llamas as “sleazy.”
When asked why he was termed a sleaze, Trump retorted, “You’re a sleaze because you know the facts, and you know the facts well.” Llamas later took to social media, posting, “Trump just called me a ‘sleaze.’ Should be an interesting week.” ABC defended their reporter, lauding him as one of the most esteemed and courteous journalists in the country.
In 2021, Llamas returned to NBC News after seven years at ABC, serving as Holt’s primary substitute on “NBC Nightly News” while also anchoring his streaming show “Top Story.” His dual role as anchor of the standard broadcast and his streaming program reflects the evolving media landscape. Llamas will anchor “Nightly News” from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. EST and then immediately transition to his streaming program, making him the first anchor to retain his streaming duties while assuming the network evening news role.
Llamas, the son of Cuban immigrants, graduated from Loyola University in New Orleans, Louisiana, and kicked off his broadcasting career with the NBC News Specials Unit in 2000. Throughout his illustrious career, he has garnered multiple Emmy Awards, including honors for “Best Anchor” and “Best Hard News Story” in 2013 and two Edward R. Murrow awards for his reporting.
“NBC Nightly News” continues to be a major player in television, consistently ranking in the top five regularly scheduled programs across all TV, with broadcasts reaching millions of viewers. Llamas’ appointment arrives during a transition period for network evening newscasts, as CBS News recently replaced Norah O’Donnell with John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois.
Llamas, married to Jennifer since 2006, resides in Purchase, New York, with their three children.
- Senior Lawmaker Suddenly Collapses Without Warning
During a Senate session on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Mississippi Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann fainted at his podium while conducting state legislature proceedings in Jackson, MS. Senate staff and fellow legislators swiftly attended to the 77-year-old Republican following the startling incident, which took place just before 11 a.m., during a live broadcast of the legislative session.
Caught on video, Hosemann, lieutenant governor since 2020, was seen leaning forward, closing his eyes and collapsing onto his microphone and podium before falling to one side. The legislative session was promptly put into recess as his colleagues rushed to help, with many senators quickly stepping in to assist their distressed leader.
Amidst the chaos, a woman was heard calling out “Oh my God, Delbert, Delbert,” followed by lawmakers shouting for medical assistance.
Medical staff at the Capitol arrived on the scene within minutes. Hannah C. Millet, Communications Director for Hosemann’s office, later informed the public that the lieutenant governor had remained conscious during the event and refused transport to a hospital. Soon after the fall, he was seen sitting upright and walked to his office without help. Hosemann left the Capitol surrounded by staff and security before getting into a government vehicle.
Addressing the incident later that day, Hosemann attributed his fainting to dehydration. “I am grateful for Mississippi’s phenomenal medical professionals and am ready to go back to work tomorrow,” he stated. “Lesson learned: Stay hydrated.” His office also released a statement confirming that he was “doing well and in good spirits.”
From public view, the Legislature’s YouTube channel swiftly removed the video recording of the incident, though snippets had already started circulating on social media. When the Senate reconvened at 2 p.m., Senate Pro Tempore Dean Kirby, R-Pearl, took over presiding duties. Kirby later informed the press that everything with Hosemann “was fine” and anticipated the lieutenant governor’s return the next morning.
State leaders, including Gov. Tate Reeves and Republican House Speaker Jason White, voiced their support for Hosemann and offered prayers for his recovery. Senate Finance Chairman Josh Harkins gave a firsthand update on Hosemann’s condition: “As he walked out of the Capitol a little while ago, he looked at us and said, ‘Hey, that last bill was awful!’ He is doing well, and if I know him he will be trying to come back to the Capitol today.”
As predicted, Hosemann returned to the Capitol on Thursday, February 20, where he was greeted with a standing ovation from his fellow senators. On behalf of the Senate and all Mississippians, Republican Sen. Kevin Blackwell formally welcomed him back, and Hosemann returned to his regular duties overseeing the chamber.
Falling in front of a room full of people and causing a sudden halt to the session wasn’t an ideal moment for Hosemann. He admitted that it bruised his pride a bit, but he took it with a sense of humor. He pointed out that he had learned a valuable lesson and, holding his water bottle as evidence, assured everyone that he was better prepared this time.
In jest, he proposed that the Rules Committee consider designating February 19 as “Hydration Awareness Day.”
Having a long-standing political career in Mississippi state government, Hosemann served as Mississippi Secretary of State from 2008 to 2020 before his current role as lieutenant governor. He has guided his chamber through various significant legislative initiatives, such as the 2022 tax cut debate and the 2024 Medicaid expansion proposal. Political observers view him as a potential candidate for governor in 2027, when the term of current Gov. Tate Reeves will end due to term limits.
Despite the health scare, Hosemann maintains an active lifestyle that many younger politicians might find challenging. He expressed his intention to participate in the upcoming Mississippi Blues Marathon 5K (3.1 miles). Hosemann, who has completed the New York and Boston marathons, is also known for his family values and love for the outdoors. He has a 54-year marriage, three children, nine grandchildren, and is an avid hunter.
- CNN Host Stunned By Shocking Poll Numbers
Americans appear to be more supportive of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) than expected, according to recent polling data that left at least one CNN analyst visibly shocked.
A CBS/YouGov poll found that 54% of Americans believe Musk and DOGE should have at least some influence over government spending and operations, despite weeks of protests and criticism from Democrats about the department’s approach to federal spending cuts.
CNN data reporter Harry Enten expressed surprise when presenting these findings on air. “This, to me, was one of the more shocking figures that I saw. It made me go, ‘wait a minute, hold on one second! Whoa!'” Enten exclaimed.
The poll also revealed that a majority of Americans approve of President Donald Trump’s efforts to reduce staff at government agencies. This comes as Musk told cabinet members last week that he expects DOGE to reach its $1 trillion spending cut goal.
When CNN anchor Kate Bolduan asked Enten what Americans believe DOGE is actually cutting, he pointed to additional polling data that suggests the public largely views the cuts as targeting waste rather than essential services.
A Washington Post/IPSOS poll of registered voters found that 42% believe DOGE is cutting “wasteful spending,” while only 36% believe the department is cutting “necessary programs.”
“Democrats want to argue that the type of spending that Musk is cutting is mainly necessary programs, but that comes in at just 36%. The wasteful spending actually wins the plurality here, at 42%,” Enten said on CNN.
However, not all polls show overwhelming support for DOGE. According to PolitiFact, while a Harvard-Harris poll found 72% support for a government agency focused on efficiency, that question did not specifically mention DOGE. Other polls have found mixed or negative public sentiment towards Musk’s role in the Trump administration, with concerns about DOGE’s access to sensitive government data.
The CBS News/YouGov poll also revealed Americans are divided on the impact of workforce reductions, with Republicans viewing it as increasing efficiency and Democrats seeing it as removing essential workers and consolidating Trump’s power.
When it comes to federal workforce reductions specifically, 52% believe Musk and DOGE have too much input, 15% believe it’s not enough, and 33% believe it’s just right. The Trump administration has defended the firings, stating the president is only interested in the best and most qualified people willing to implement his America First agenda.
The Washington Post reports that Musk and his allies in DOGE have justified their efforts to reduce federal agencies by claiming to target fraud, waste, and abuse in government spending. President Trump has echoed this rhetoric, suggesting there is significant “fraud” in programs like Social Security.
However, independent watchdogs and analysts quoted by the Washington Post say Musk and Trump are using overly broad claims of fraud to build political support for sweeping spending cuts. While there is indeed fraudulent spending in the government, much of what Musk and his allies label as “fraud” is simply disagreement over the intent or value of certain programs.
The positive polling results for Musk and DOGE come despite Trump’s overall poor approval ratings on the economy, which are historically low compared to other presidents at similar points in their terms. This suggests that regardless of overall economic sentiment, many Americans are responding positively to specific initiatives aimed at reducing what they perceive as government waste.
The polling data indicates a significant shift in public opinion about the role of government. According to PennLive, 55% of Americans now say the government is doing too much, up from 54% saying it was doing too little in 2020. This changing sentiment may help explain why efforts to reduce government spending are finding support among a majority of voters.
Despite the apparent public support for DOGE’s mission, the details of what programs might be affected by the trillion-dollar spending cut goal remain largely unclear to the public, with polls showing Americans divided on whether the cuts will ultimately help or harm government services.
- 11 Killed in Violent Boat Collision
A tragic boat collision in Hunan province’s Yuanshui River in China led to the death of 11 individuals and left an additional five missing, according to authorities.
The incident occurred on the morning of February 25, 2025, and involved a smaller passenger ferry and an oil spill response vessel. Emergency teams initiated rescue operations, diligently searching for those still missing.
The section of the river where the accident took place has a water depth of over 197 feet and a width of 547 yards. The region’s geological features are complicated, with powerful currents near the riverbed, as mentioned by officials from the rescue headquarters on Friday.
The ferry, carrying local villagers, was hit by the larger vessel. Nineteen individuals were thrown into the water upon the collision, and despite immediate rescue operations, many of the passengers could not be saved. Officials reported 11 fatalities, three survivors who were transported to a nearby hospital, and there were five missing passengers. Divers were sent out to aid in the search for the missing.
One survivor managed to escape the sinking ferry by breaking a window with their foot, as reported by a family member who spoke to ThePaper.cn, a Shanghai-based news outlet.
The three crew members from the oil spill response vessel are currently under police investigation.
Over 500 rescue workers were involved in the extensive search and rescue operations. The sunken passenger vessel was lifted and brought to the surface while the search for the missing passengers continued, as reported by China’s state news agency, Xinhua.
Videos making rounds on Chinese social media show emergency responders pulling survivors from the water and mourning families gathered near the riverbanks. A temporary crisis center was established by authorities to assist the victims’ relatives, with local officials committing to a comprehensive investigation and accountability for those responsible.
In the wake of several fatal waterway accidents, China has been making strides to enhance its maritime safety regulations. Nevertheless, cases involving overcrowded or poorly maintained vessels remain worrisome, especially in rural regions where river travel is a common mode of transportation. A particularly devastating incident in 2015, the sinking of the cruise ship Eastern Star in the Yangtze River, claimed over 400 lives and led to stricter supervision of passenger ferries and commercial vessels.
Officials have pledged to augment inspections of vessels sailing on the Yuanshui River to prevent future accidents. The Ministry of Transport also plans to review safety procedures for oil spill response vessels, acknowledging the potential risks these ships pose in busy waterways.
The search for the five missing passengers continued under challenging conditions on the Yuanshui River. Rescue teams, equipped with sonar and diving equipment, dealt with strong currents near the riverbed, which complicated the underwater search operations. The Chinese Ministry of Emergency Management dispatched a special team to investigate the cause of the incident and to prevent similar future occurrences.
- Judge Rules Trump Broke the Law
A federal judge has ordered the reinstatement of Gwynne Wilcox, a Democratic member of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) whom President Donald Trump fired shortly after his inauguration in January 2025. The ruling represents a significant check on presidential power over independent agencies.
U.S. District Judge Beryl A. Howell declared in her Thursday ruling that Trump’s removal of Wilcox was “unlawful” and “therefore null and void.” Wilcox, who was appointed by former President Joe Biden with a term set to run through August 2028, was the first Black woman to serve on the NLRB.
“The President’s interpretation of the scope of his constitutional power – or, more aptly, his aspiration – is flat wrong,” Howell wrote in her opinion. “The President does not have the authority to terminate members of the National Labor Relations Board at will, and his attempt to fire plaintiff from her position on the Board was a blatant violation of the law.”
Trump’s firing of Wilcox in January eliminated the NLRB’s quorum, effectively paralyzing the agency responsible for enforcing collective-bargaining law and protecting workers’ rights to unionize. With only two members remaining on the five-member board, the NLRB was unable to issue decisions.
The administration’s lawyers argued that NLRB members should be “removable at will to ensure democratic accountability.” However, the National Labor Relations Act specifically states that board members may only be removed for “neglect of duty” or “malfeasance,” and only after being given “notice and hearing.” Judge Howell noted in her ruling that no president had previously attempted to remove an NLRB member.
In her strongly worded opinion, Howell criticized Trump’s understanding of presidential powers. She even referenced a February 15 post by Trump on X declaring, “He who saves his Country does not violate any Law.”
“A President who touts an image of himself as a ‘king’ or a ‘dictator,’ perhaps as his vision of effective leadership, fundamentally misapprehends the role under Article II of the U.S. Constitution,” Howell wrote.
Wilcox filed her lawsuit seeking reinstatement shortly after her January firing. “When Congress established the National Labor Relations Board almost 90 years ago, it made sure that the law would protect its independence from political influence,” Wilcox said in a statement at the time. “My removal, without cause or process, directly violates that law.”
The judge’s ruling rests in part on a 90-year-old Supreme Court precedent, Humphrey’s Executor v. United States, which limits the president’s power to remove officials from independent, quasi-judicial bodies. In that 1935 case, the Court ruled that the president’s removal power is limited for officials of independent regulatory agencies, holding that they can only be removed for the causes specified by Congress.
Trump’s administration has quickly appealed the ruling, setting up a potential Supreme Court showdown over executive power. The case is one of several recent court decisions finding that Trump unlawfully dismissed Senate-confirmed members of independent agencies, including officials from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Federal Election Commission.
Former NLRB member Wilma Liebman told HuffPost that Trump’s firing of Wilcox was “shocking” and threatened the agency’s role as an independent enforcer of the law. “It has the intent, I suppose, of trying to transform a neutral, objective, adjudicatory body into Trump’s henchmen,” Liebman said. “To me, it seems that the obvious first intent is to create chaos and make the agency inoperative.”
The ruling comes amid broader efforts by the Trump administration to assert sweeping executive control over independent agencies. These efforts include removing inspectors general and ordering White House review of regulations issued by independent agencies.
Legal experts believe the Supreme Court’s conservative majority may be receptive to the argument that the president should have broader authority over independent agencies. The Court could potentially revisit and narrow or overturn the Humphrey’s Executor precedent.
However, Judge Howell made it clear that until the Supreme Court changes existing law, current precedent supports Wilcox’s reinstatement. The judge’s ruling restores the NLRB’s three-member quorum, allowing the agency to resume its functions protecting workers’ rights to unionize and collectively bargain.
As the appeals process moves forward, the ultimate resolution may reshape the relationship between the executive branch and independent regulatory agencies for decades to come.
- Trump Slams MSNBC Hosts for “Disgraceful” Comments
President Donald Trump called for the resignation of MSNBC hosts Nicolle Wallace and Rachel Maddow on Thursday, March 6, 2025, criticizing them for comments made about a teenage cancer survivor and lambasting the network for its declining ratings.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump specifically targeted Wallace for remarks she made about DJ (Devarjaye) Daniel, a 13-year-old cancer survivor whom Trump honored with an honorary Secret Service badge during Tuesday’s joint session of Congress.
“Frankly, what Nicolle Wallace said — I’ve never been a fan of hers, and she’s not very talented — but I’ll tell you, what she said the other day about that young man is disgraceful. She should be forced to resign,” Trump said.
The controversy stems from comments Wallace made on her “Deadline: White House” show about the young cancer survivor. Wallace said she hopes Daniels “never has to defend the United States Capitol against Donald Trump’s supporters, and if he does, I hope he isn’t one of the six who loses his life to suicide.”
Trump extended his criticism to Rachel Maddow, asserting that “Rachel Maddow should be forced to resign. Nobody watches her anyway. I don’t know if — it’s not possible they pay her as much money as I hear — but certainly she’s lost all credibility.”
The president described MSNBC as “MS-DNC” and claimed the network is performing “worse than CNN” and has “lost such credibility.” Trump added that “very few people watch them anymore,” pointing to the network’s declining viewership.
“Both of them. But what they said the other day, they should be forced to resign, about that young person who is suffering,” Trump continued.
Wallace’s comments about Daniels sparked widespread backlash beyond the White House. Former co-host Meghan McCain called the remarks “a new low,” according to reporting from the Daily Mail. Wallace has reportedly seen a 35% drop in viewership for her show “Deadline: White House” over the past year, while Fox News programming in the same timeslot has tripled MSNBC’s numbers.
The White House also criticized the MSNBC hosts more broadly, accusing them of using a cancer survivor as a political weapon against the president. In addition to Wallace’s comments, Maddow reportedly described Trump’s honoring of Daniels as “disgusting.” She accused the president of turning the boy’s illness into a display, as though he himself played a role in the child’s recovery.
MSNBC has declined to comment on Trump’s demands for the hosts’ resignations.
The controversy comes amid significant restructuring at MSNBC. Former network president Rashida Jones stepped down in January after four years leading the cable news network. Rebecca Kutler, previously the senior vice president of content strategy, has been named interim president and has been implementing significant changes to programming.
Kutler’s changes include canceling several shows, including “The ReidOut” with Joy Reid and “Alex Wagner Tonight.” Other canceled programs include “The Katie Phang Show,” “Ayman with Ayman Mohyeldin,” and “José Díaz-Balart Reports.”
Rachel Maddow’s show is also undergoing changes, with the majority of employees who produce her prime-time show being laid off. Maddow will retain her executive producer and some senior producers, but the rest of her team has been given the option to claim severance or reapply for new roles. Maddow has criticized the network’s treatment of its staff, calling it “unnerving” to see two non-white hosts in prime time losing their shows.
These changes at MSNBC come as the network faces significant business challenges. Industry analysts estimate a 10.5% decline in subscribers between 2023 and 2025. To address this, Kutler plans to build an independent newsgathering apparatus, launch a separate MSNBC Washington bureau, and add new international and domestic correspondents.
The network has also seen significant viewer erosion following Trump’s return to the White House. Kutler is seeking to bring viewers back by making programming changes, including having Rachel Maddow return to hosting the 9 p.m. hour Monday through Friday, before transitioning back to hosting Mondays only.
- Trump Brutally Slams CBS Host
In a recent interview with The Spectator’s Ben Domenech on February 27, 2025, President Donald Trump mocked CBS News host Margaret Brennan over her controversial comments that appeared to suggest free speech contributed to the Holocaust. He referred to her show as “Deface the Nation” and questioned her qualifications for the job.
Trump’s comments came in response to a February 16, 2025 interview in which Brennan spoke with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. In this discussion, she criticized Vice President JD Vance’s defense of free speech at the Munich Security Conference and his condemnation of government censorship throughout Europe.
The president described the incident, saying, “I call it ‘Deface the Nation.’ Brennan is like anybody on the street that you could take and say, ‘Go in and ask a few questions.’ That was so bad, I don’t get how you hire some of these people.”
Brennan said that Vance’s speech took place in a country where free speech had been used to facilitate a genocide. She noted his meeting with the leader of a far-right political party with historical ties to extremist groups, suggesting that the context was important and that the censorship Vance condemned was specifically aimed at right-wing speech.
Rubio immediately objected to Brennan’s historical interpretation. He argued that the Holocaust was perpetrated by an authoritarian Nazi regime that targeted Jews, minorities, and others they despised, rather than being the result of free speech. He pointed out that free speech did not exist in Nazi Germany, nor was there any political opposition, as the Nazis were the only ruling party.
Rubio’s assertions align with the views of many historians, who generally agree that the Nazi regime swiftly curtailed freedom of speech and the press after seizing power, shutting down anti-Nazi newspapers, requiring journalists to be licensed by the government, and arresting Germans who criticized the regime.
Vice President Vance also weighed in on Brennan’s comments, expressing incredulity at her claims. He questioned whether the media genuinely believed that the Holocaust was a result of free speech.
According to CBS News, Vance “stunned European leaders in Munich with a speech in which he painted a picture of European politics infected by media censorship and political correctness.” During his visit to Europe, Vance met with the leader of Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right political party with controversial views, which Brennan referenced during her interview with Rubio.
Brennan has had several confrontational exchanges with officials from the Trump administration, including Secretary Rubio and Vice President Vance, as well as with Senator Lindsey Graham. These have revolved around various issues, from immigration to presidential statements. CBS News has not yet responded to requests for comment on Trump’s criticism of Brennan.
Despite significant backlash from conservatives and historians regarding Brennan’s comments about free speech in Nazi Germany, some have defended her. While Brennan did imply that free speech played a role in Nazi Germany, her argument was that it was “weaponized,” rather than directly causing the Holocaust.
Trump’s criticism comes amidst reports of him applying increased pressure on CBS with a massive discovery demand as part of a lawsuit against “60 Minutes,” another CBS News program.
Since assuming the role of moderator for “Face the Nation” in 2018, Brennan has frequently been in the limelight due to these contentious exchanges with Trump administration officials. These instances have often gone viral on social media, garnering both criticism and support depending on political leanings.
- Baywatch Actress Dies Suddenly at 62
Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff, actress and ex-wife of “Baywatch” star David Hasselhoff, was found dead in her Hollywood Hills home on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. She was 62 years old.
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office, Bach-Hasselhoff died by suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. No note was found at the scene.
Family members reportedly went to check on Bach-Hasselhoff after they hadn’t heard from her in several days, according to multiple sources. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that they were called to the scene around 10 p.m. on Wednesday night.
“Our family is deeply saddened by the recent passing of Pamela Hasselhoff,” David Hasselhoff, 72, said in a statement. “We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time, but we kindly request privacy as we grieve and navigate through this challenging time.”
According to a neighbor’s account, one of Bach-Hasselhoff’s daughters, believed to be Hayley Hasselhoff, 32, discovered her mother’s body and was reportedly “hysterical, yelling, screaming, crying on the street” afterward. The neighbor, Hiromi Osiecki, described hearing her “crying, saying, ‘I just want to get my car.'”
Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Bach-Hasselhoff began her acting career in the 1970s. Her first significant film role was in Francis Ford Coppola’s “Rumble Fish.” Throughout her career, she appeared in numerous television shows, including “The Young and the Restless,” “Cheers,” “The Fall Guy,” “T.J. Hooker,” “Superboy,” and “Viper.”
Bach-Hasselhoff is perhaps best known for her role as Kaye Morgan on “Baywatch,” where she appeared in 14 episodes over a 10-year period. She also played various other characters on the popular lifeguard drama series.
She met David Hasselhoff on the set of his series “Knight Rider” in 1985 when she made a guest appearance. The couple married in December 1989 after Hasselhoff’s split from his first wife, Catherine Hickland. During their 17-year marriage, they had two daughters together, Taylor Ann, now 34, and Hayley Amber, 32.
The couple’s divorce in 2006 was contentious, with Bach-Hasselhoff accusing Hasselhoff of domestic abuse, allegations he denied. Their divorce proceedings included disputes over spousal support payments, which continued until 2017. Following the divorce, they each received custody of one daughter.
Bach-Hasselhoff’s agent, Sharon Kelly, remembered her client fondly, describing her as a “force of nature” and a “proud mama” to her two daughters. Kelly expressed shock at Bach-Hasselhoff’s passing, saying her “heart goes out to her family, her beautiful daughters and granddaughter who Pamela constantly gushes about and loves so dearly.”
Bach-Hasselhoff took pride in her roles as a mother and grandmother. Her last social media post on New Year’s Eve 2024 reflected her joy in her family, particularly her granddaughter London, who was born in August 2024 to her daughter Taylor and son-in-law Madison Fiore.
Following the news of her death, fans took to social media to express their condolences. Her daughter Hayley shared a tribute to her mother by reposting a throwback picture of her parents from 1996 on her Instagram Stories.
Throughout her post-divorce years, Bach-Hasselhoff maintained an active presence on social media, often sharing loving posts about her daughters and granddaughter. Despite the contentious nature of their divorce, she continued to use the Hasselhoff surname professionally.
In addition to her acting career, Bach-Hasselhoff participated in the UK reality show “Celebrity Big Brother” in 2011, expanding her public profile beyond her acting roles.
David Hasselhoff remarried in 2018 to model Hayley Roberts, while Bach-Hasselhoff remained single since their divorce. The former couple’s daughters, Taylor and Hayley, have both established careers of their own, with Hayley working as a model and Taylor pursuing various entrepreneurial ventures.
Bach-Hasselhoff’s acting career spanned more than five decades, beginning with her first credit as a child actor in 1973. Her versatility as an actress allowed her to take on various roles throughout her career, though her most recognized work remained her appearances on “Baywatch” and “Knight Rider.”
She is survived by her two daughters, Taylor and Hayley, and her granddaughter, London.
