Jim Acosta urges TV networks to stop airing some Trump speeches live, calls them 'totally nuts'

Former CNN anchor Jim Acosta urged television networks to forgo live coverage of President Donald Trump's primetime address last Thursday, warning they would be "totally nuts" to air what he described as the president's "conspiracy theories" without immediately fact-checking them.

"I think the networks are totally nuts if they take this speech live," Acosta said on "The Joy Reid Show."

"It is totally crazy to put his bats--- ‘Looney Tunes’ conspiracy theories on live national television without fact-checkers in real time, and some of the networks will say, 'Well, we'll have some fact-checkers on afterwards,' and the fact-checkers will come on and say, 'Well, there isn't any evidence to support his claims.' It's all boloney kabuki Washington DC theater."

ABC, NBC, CNN AVOID AIRING TRUMP'S PRIMETIME ELECTION SECURITY ADDRESS LIVE

Acosta relayed his worries to Reid that Trump would further spread alleged conspiracies surrounding the integrity of U.S. elections, thereby casting preliminary doubt on the integrity of this year's midterms.

"He has never ever proven any of these things. He has lost the benefit of the doubt," he said.

"We should not be erring on the side of putting these things out there, and I totally agree with you that he's chumming the waters for not trusting the midterms."

TRUMP RELEASES DECLASSIFIED ELECTION INTELLIGENCE, SAYS IT REVEALS 'SHOCKING VULNERABILITIES'

Adding to his critique, Acosta suggested the president could be forging a broader plot to create what he coined as a "52-car pileup" around the midterm elections.

"[He could] say, "See, I can't trust these results over here in this state or these results over here in that key district that may determine the control of the House. And Mike Johnson, maybe we just shouldn't seat a new Congress right away, and maybe we should just all go to court and have the courts untangle... [and] that's going to take until May or June of next year," he warned.

"That, to me, is a terrifying thought."

DOUG SCHOEN: TRUMP PUT 2026 ELECTION OFFICIALS ON NOTICE. NOW HE NEEDS A CLEAR AGENDA

Fox News Digital reached out to the White House for comment.

Acosta's warning came ahead of Trump's primetime address Thursday, where, speaking to the nation, the president renewed his focus on election integrity and alleged that China "worked to influence the results" of the 2020 presidential election, an accusation Beijing has denied.

Trump did not claim China changed votes or altered election results. Instead, he said Beijing engaged in an influence campaign aimed at shaping U.S. public perceptions.

Trump used the disclosures during Thursday's address to press Congress to pass the SAVE America Act, casting the newly released intelligence as evidence that lawmakers must tighten federal election rules before the midterms.

The act passed the House in February but stalled in the Senate in March, when a 53–47 vote fell short of the 60 votes needed to advance it.

Ultimately, CBS News aired a special report that initially provided analysis before dipping into the speech minutes after Trump began speaking and cut away moments after Trump's attacks towards ABC and NBC. MS NOW carried the first 15 minutes of his speech live before dipping out to provide commentary. Fox News carried the speech in its entirety.

"The least that the networks can do at this point is not platform these lies, to not allow him to chum the waters with this nonsense," Acosta warned ahead of the address.

"And I think that it's a very serious moment for the television networks in this country."

Fox News' Greg Norman-Diamond, Joseph Wulfsohn and Morgan Phillips contributed to this report.

from Latest & Breaking News on Fox News https://ift.tt/t0x3FUR

Kentucky governor says he received 2 calls from agencies indicating McConnell had 'passed'

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said this week that he received two calls from agencies suggesting Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., died while he was in the hospital.

In an interview with Katie Couric uploaded to YouTube on Thursday, Beshear, a Democrat, did not specify which agencies allegedly called him with the news or when the calls were made.

"In fact, I'd gotten two calls from different agencies, not state agencies, suggesting he'd passed," said Beshear, who has served as governor since December 2019.

Fox News Digital reached out to Beshear and McConnell's offices for comment.

GOP SENATORS SPLIT AS TUBERVILLE DEMANDS MCCONNELL ANSWERS

After nearly a month of being hospitalized, McConnell's office released a lengthy statement on July 12 saying he was being treated for a fall he suffered in June. A picture of him in a hospital bed alongside his wife was also released.

Prior to the announcement, there was speculation about what had happened to McConnell, given that his office did not reveal why he was in the hospital for weeks.

Emergency dispatch audio from June 14, the day McConnell was hospitalized, revealed he was "unconscious" and may have suffered a heart attack.

'THIS IS NOT NORMAL': AOC UNLOADS ON MCCONNELL'S PROLONGED ABSENCE

"My doctors have confirmed that I didn’t break any bones or suffer a concussion," McConnell said in the statement last weekend. "I didn’t have a heart attack or a stroke. I don’t have any tumors or hemorrhages."

Two days before the longtime GOP leader shared more about his condition, Beshear posted on social media demanding that McConnell be more transparent.

"I publicly and privately urged the last administration to address the public’s concerns with the former president’s health," Beshear wrote, seemingly a reference to former President Joe Biden. "I’m calling on Sen. McConnell to do the same and provide voters an update on his own health."

Beshear ended the post by urging McConnell to "end the crazy speculation" and "just tell us what's going on."

On July 8, Beshear also wrote a letter to the 84-year-old lawmaker requesting that he "fully update Kentuckians regarding the current status of your health."

McConnell's doctor said he "developed pneumonia" early in his hospitalization but "responded rapidly to antibiotic treatment."

McConnell said he intends to return to the Senate, but his office has given no timeline on when he'll be able to do so.

from Latest & Breaking News on Fox News https://ift.tt/OfCGHz4

Max Verstappen keeps it blunt, yet cryptic when asked about future with Red Bull

Formula 1 is at Spa-Francorchamps this weekend, a fan and driver favorite, for the Belgian Grand Prix. We’re in the midst of a great title battle between Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli and George Russell and Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton.

However, much of the focus this weekend is on Red Bull's Max Verstappen. It's been a tough season for the four-time champ, who currently sits down in P7 in the standings, and that's because the rumor mill has been churning about his future with the team.

Verstappen has not committed to Red Bull for next season and was recently linked with a potential move to McLaren. On top of that, he himself has even floated the idea of stepping away from F1. He hasn't been a fan of the direction the series has taken with its current cars, and has recently done more sports car racing.

So, he was asked about all of this on Thursday during his driver press conference, and the Dutchman gave some answers that were both blunt and cryptic.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE

"Is there any update you can give us?" a reporter asked.

"No," Verstappen said.

Verstappen was then asked about what he makes of all of the speculation about his future, to which he replied, "Nothing."

ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW!

He was then asked whether he had a date in mind for providing an update on his plans.

"No, there's nothing to say from my side," he said.

"So, full commitment to Red Bull in 2027?" the reporter asked.

"I said there's nothing to say," Verstappen reiterated.

Now, Verstappen is known for handling press conferences like this, but, man, is that not going to keep the rumor mill from churning?

It is worth noting that while Red Bull's struggles have been well documented this season, Verstappen has said he has a good relationship with team boss Laurent Mekies, who took over partway through last season.

"It’s been really good. I get on very well with Laurent. We speak a lot on track, but also off track," he said, per the Associated Press. "I think the relationship that he has also within the team is great.

"Everything for me feels very positive, and I think it’s always nice when you can discuss a lot of things with your team boss. So from that sense, yeah, very happy. It’s all very open and transparent."

from Latest & Breaking News on Fox News https://ift.tt/lVIQtJg

'The Dog Stars' trailer shows Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin surviving post-apocalyptic world

A new trailer has dropped for the upcoming movie "The Dog Stars."

Basic info:

BONE-CHILLING PREVIEW RELEASED FOR STEVEN SPIELBERG'S HIGHLY ANTICIPATED UFO MOVIE 'DISCLOSURE DAY'

There has been some significant hype for "The Dog Stars" ever since the first preview was released. I've never read the book, and likely won't before the movie comes out.

However, I know a fire trailer when I see one, and the new one for the post-apocalyptic thriller is absolutely outstanding.

It's a shot of adrenaline to the soul, and it looks like the exact kind of movie made for guys who love action, suspense and high stakes in a world where civilization has collapsed.

Check out the preview below, and let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

Seriously, how great does this film look? It has all the ingredients to be a successful film. Ridley Scott is a legendary director. "Black Hawk Down" remains arguably the best war movie ever made, and his list of accomplishments runs long.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK CULTURE COVERAGE

The cast is also loaded with Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin and Margaret Qualley. Three legit grade-A talents. What's not to love?

I'm certainly excited, and will be adding it to my list of movies to see.

You can check out "The Dog Stars" in theaters starting Aug. 28. Let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

from Latest & Breaking News on Fox News https://ift.tt/CtliX1W

Powerful LGBTQ+ group's endorsements could tank vulnerable Dems over radical youth trans agenda

Endorsements from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), a pro-LGBTQ+ advocacy group, are raising questions about whether the candidates they’ve endorsed hold the same beliefs as the organization — stances that could fly in the face of attempts to paint a moderate image.

The endorsements highlight the struggle candidates face to manage their associations — especially on topics and in areas that may draw controversy.

Among their stances, HRC has a few that put it solidly in the progressive camp.

TALARICO CAMPAIGNS WITH SURGEON WHO OPERATED ON TRANSGENDER MINORS: ‘WOLF IN SHEEP’S CLOTHING’

The organization has supported gender-affirming care for minors in the form of puberty blockers and hormone therapy. It has also opposed state restrictions on their implementation and has promoted elementary school lessons on gender identity, resisted efforts to restrict Critical Race Theory and promoted removing police from schools.

"Our goal is to ensure that all LGBTQ+ people, and particularly those of us who are trans, people of color and HIV+, are treated as full and equal citizens within our movement, across our country and around the world," the organization states on its website.

The organization has advocated fiercely against virtually all LGBTQ+ restrictions.

In one such case, after the Supreme Court ruled that parents had a right to pull their children out of LGBTQ+ classes and lessons, HRC blasted the decision.

"This decision elevates the religious beliefs of some parents, who believe that being LGBTQ+ is wrong, over any acknowledgement in the classroom that LGBTQ+ young people and their families exist," the organization said in a statement.

In 2026, the organization endorsed 11 Democratic newcomers and 18 incumbents in battleground districts.

Among them, HRC has endorsed members like Rep. Josh Riley, D-N.Y., Derek Tran, D-Calif., and Greg Landsman, D-Ohio, — all of whom won their races by less than five points.

WATCH: SURFACED VIDEOS OF DEM SENATE CANDIDATE BACKING 'DEFUND THE POLICE' CONTRADICT RECENT DENIALS

Those members did not respond to requests for comment from Fox News Digital on whether they stood by HRC’s positions.

Headed into the midterms, HRC framed their success as key to taking pressure off of the LGBTQ+ community from the Trump administration.

"Our community is facing an all-out assault on our rights and its coming from a congressional majority bowing to Trump and his MAGA followers. They’re trying to strip away our freedoms and push us back into the closet while doing nothing to meet the urgent needs of the American people," the group’s president, Kelley Robinson, said in a statement.

In the past, some of the candidates HRC has endorsed have framed their appreciation as a matter of shared interest in anti-discrimination.

That was the way Rep. Tom Suozzi, D-N.Y., acknowledged their endorsement of him in a 2023 special election.

"I am grateful for the support and endorsement of the Human Rights Campaign. This will be a tough race, and the support of HRC, which has been dedicated to anti-discrimination research, advocacy and education for more than 40 years, means a great deal to me," Suozzi said.

FIRST ON FOX: PRESSURE MOUNTS ON YMCA TO DITCH TRANSGENDER POLICIES AFTER SUPREME COURT TITLE IX RULINGf

HRC has renewed its endorsement of Suozzi in the 2026 midterms.

The organization did not immediately respond to questions about what factors go into their endorsement process or whether they ask candidates for permission before publicly endorsing them.

from Latest & Breaking News on Fox News https://ift.tt/SrtBxq2

Missouri nurse found dead months after anesthesiologist husband admitted to assaulting woman

Mystery deepens surrounding the death of a Missouri nurse and wife to a prominent anesthesiologist.

Alexandra "Allie" Hummel, 36, was found unresponsive in her home on June 23, on Lone Cedar Trail in New London after investigators responded to a 911 call.

The Ralls County Sheriff's Office said the coroner called for an autopsy.

SLAIN NJ MOTHER 911 CALL MADE BY HER HUSBAND HAS FORENSIC EXPERT WARNING ONE MISTAKE COULD DERAIL FOCUS

Records indicate Hummel was a licensed nurse in Missouri; her husband, Dr. Andrew Hummel is a licensed anesthesiologist.

Fox News Digital made contact with Hummel's husband who declined to comment on the investigation.

Court records reveal in March 2026 he pleaded guilty to assaulting a woman. He was first arrested in July 2025 on charges of strangling and striking a woman of whom he was "in a continuing relationship of romantic nature" in the face.

📩 Send me a story idea: kelsie.cairns@fox.com

📸 Instagram: kelsiecairns_tv

🎥 Facebook: Kelsie Cairns

Dr. Hummel is currently self-employed at Northern Ozark Anesthesia Solutions, his own LLC, according to LinkedIn.

SLAIN NEW JERSEY THERAPIST’S GRAD SCHOOL ROOMMATE RECOUNTS FRIENDSHIP WITH COUPLE DURING TIME IN BOSTON

He most recently worked at Hannibal Regional Hospital.

Andrew Hummel has not been accused of any crime or wrongdoing in his wife's death.

NFL STAR'S BROTHER CHARGED WITH MURDER OF MOTHER AFTER POLICE FOUND HIM SELF-BARRICADED NEAR BODY

Hummel would have celebrated her 37th birthday, on July 7.

The investigation into Hummel's death is ongoing.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Hannibal Regional Healthcare System.

from Latest & Breaking News on Fox News https://ift.tt/CJPFiIt

MLB commissioner says Trump 'interested' in MLB CBA negotiations but 'will pass' on potential help

President Donald Trump has tried his hand at helping college sports, and if it were up to him, he'd probably do the same for Major League Baseball.

The league's current collective bargaining agreement expires in December, and with the sides perhaps as far apart as they've been since 1994, the 2027 season is in limbo.

Many may remember the 2022 season was delayed because of an owners' lockout after the expiration of the previous CBA that December. However, the sentiment at the time among baseball experts was, if you thought that was bad, wait until 2026.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Well, 2026 is here, and they weren't kidding. The owners, for the first time since 1994, have formally proposed a salary cap, which players have said is nonnegotiable.

Ahead of Tuesday's MLB All-Star Game, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred spoke to reporters, and one asked whether he thought Trump would intervene in the negotiations.

Manfred did not want to "speculate" about Trump's potential involvement.

"Look, I think it would be wildly, wildly inappropriate for me to speculate what the president of the United States might do or not do in a hypothetical situation," Manfred said. "We know this. He's a great sports fan, and he is really knowledgeable about the business of sports, so it doesn't surprise me."

Manfred did say, however, that Trump is "interested," but it doesn't yet seem he wants his help.

"Behind that, I'm going to pass," he said.

Last month, Trump said it is "shocking" the league does not yet have a salary cap.

MLB PLAYERS, OWNERS AT ODDS OVER POTENTIAL OLYMPIC PARTICIPATION, INCLUDING PUNISHMENT FOR DECLINING: REPORT

"If you don't have a salary cap, you don't have a sport. They can't help themselves. In sports, they can't help themselves. Football has a salary cap. They should have done it a long time ago. I know so much about sports, they should have done it a long time ago...

"Major League Baseball — it's shocking, frankly, that they didn't put a cap on many years ago. They had a chance to do a cap, and they blew it."

The White House did not immediately respond to an email requesting comment.

Major League Baseball is in serious danger of losing games, excluding the COVID-shortened 2020 season, for the first time since the 1995 season was reduced to 144 games as the players' strike stretched into the following year. The 1994 postseason was even canceled, and the sport was hanging by a thread.

Now, baseball is seeing another boom, as rule changes implemented by Manfred have helped games move more quickly, bringing more fans into ballparks. Attendance could increase for a fourth consecutive year for the first time since 2004-07. It is not currently on pace to do so, but the summer is still young.

"The best way to lose momentum is to stand still," Manfred said.

Earlier this year, Trump held a college sports roundtable and signed an executive order focused on "saving college sports." Unlike the NHL, NBA and NFL, MLB has never had a salary cap.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

from Latest & Breaking News on Fox News https://ift.tt/Umij6Y7