House Republicans engaged Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin with pointed lines of questioning as he testified on Thursday about his secretive hospitalization earlier this year following a procedure to treat prostate cancer and other issues. During a House Armed Service Committee hearing‚ GOP members pressed Austin over concerns about a break in the chain of command and accountability. Chairman Mike Rogers (R-AL) declared‚ “Someone needs to be held accountable.” Democrats used the opportunity to push for the passage of more aid to war-torn Ukraine‚ according to The New York Times. .@RepMikeRogersAL SLAMS Defense Sec. Lloyd Austin's failed transparency: “You are solely responsible…This administration has gone to great lengths to avoid accountability whenever possible‚ but this is a matter of national security‚ and someone needs to be held accountable.” pic.twitter.com/AqGNTRf0xZ — Conservative War Machine (@WarMachineRR) February 29‚ 2024 Austin testified that he did “not handle this right‚” referring to the Department of Defense (DoD) failing to quickly alert other officials about his health‚ but CNN reported that he repeatedly insisted there was “never a break in command and control” at the Pentagon. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY)‚ the chairwoman of the House Republican Conference who has called on Austin to resign‚ pressed the secretary on whether a junior service member would be disciplined for not reporting for duty. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) asks Defense Sec. Austin if a junior service member would be disciplined for not reporting for duty: Austin: “I think the chain of command would be concerned about why they were in a hospital.” pic.twitter.com/rdJOvqHix0 — The Recount (@therecount) February 29‚ 2024 “If a service member was in a hospital I think the chain of command would be concerned about why they were in the hospital and make sure that they are doing the right things to take care of them and their families‚” Austin said. “But don’t you think it’s their responsibility to notify their commanding officer?” Stefanik asked as a follow-up question. “I think‚ possible‚ yes‚” Austin replied‚ to which Stefanik shot back‚ “The answer is yes.” Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN)‚ a Navy veteran who served in Afghanistan‚ pressed Austin on whether he “usually” goes days without talking to President Joe Biden. “I mean‚ that can happen‚” Austin said. He noted there are times in which either he or the commander-in-chief is traveling and do not engage in direct communication. “Either the president is that aloof or you are irrelevant — which one is it?” Banks asked. He also pointed out that the Pentagon did not notify the White House for three days about Austin’s intensive care unit stay. “It’s neither‚” Austin said in his reply. “The president is not aloof.” Rep. Jim Banks: "Do you usually go days without talking to the commander-in-chief?" Defense Sec. Lloyd Austin: "I mean‚ that can happen…"@RepJimBanks: "Either the president is that aloof or you are irrelevant — which one is it?" Austin: "The president is not aloof!" pic.twitter.com/3rOpXFJN3C — RNC Research (@RNCResearch) February 29‚ 2024 During another exchange that touched on the COVID pandemic‚ Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) said Austin did not immediately inform the president about his treatment for cancer and the complications that followed that prompted a hospital visit because he viewed the matter as personal and private. “Now that you see how personal medical decisions are‚ will you call for the re-recruitment‚ restoration of full rank and back pay for the 8‚600 service members who were vax-mandated out of the military?” Gaetz asked. “No‚ I won’t‚” Austin said. As the exchange continued‚ Austin told Gaetz that he does not expect to be discharged‚ suspended‚ or demoted over the controversy he faces. BREAKING: As Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin begs Congress for grace and forgiveness after his unauthorized absence was exposed earlier this year‚ he REFUSED to give that same grace to the 8‚600 service members he kicked out due to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate! GAETZ: “Now that… pic.twitter.com/MuVZgBfA9m — Rep. Matt Gaetz (@RepMattGaetz) February 29‚ 2024 After noting how Biden signed off on lifting his administration’s own military vaccine mandate‚ Gaetz said‚ “You’re not meeting your own standards that you set for yourself. And you say that the DoD is a learning organization. Haven’t you learned yet that the military is weaker‚ not stronger‚ with the 8‚600 people that you’ve vax-mandated out of the military?” In response‚ Austin said‚ “The reason I’m here is because the chairman requested that I appear to talk about the circumstances surrounding my hospitalization.” Mike Waltz goes off on Lloyd Austin: "The American people‚ truck drivers‚ bartenders‚ know they have to tell their boss or they get fired — but you’ve held yourself to a different standard‚ and that’s unacceptable.” pic.twitter.com/R0NKchTLzG — Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) February 29‚ 2024 Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL)‚ a retired colonel in the Army National Guard and veteran Green Beret‚ argued that the hospitalization controversy was not about process but rather judgement. “The American people‚ truck drivers‚ bartenders‚ know they have to tell their boss or they get fired — but you’ve held yourself to a different standard‚ and that’s unacceptable‚” he said.

The Republican-led Alabama House passed a bill on Thursday protecting in vitro fertilization (IVF) providers just a week after the state’s Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos are children. The legislation‚ HB 237‚ seeks to give “civil and criminal immunity to persons providing goods and services related to in vitro fertilization in certain circumstances‚” The Hill reported. Under the bill‚ IVF providers would not be immune from prosecution in situations that involve “an act or omission that is both intentional and not arising from or related to IVF services.” Lawmakers in the state House passed the bill in a vote of 94-6 with three representatives abstaining. A companion piece of legislation is also being considered by the state Senate‚ and lawmakers hope to get the measures to Gov. Kay Ivey’s desk by next week‚ according to CNN. HB 237 was sponsored by Republican Rep. Terri Collins‚ who said that the main goal of the bill is to make sure IVF clinics can reopen as soon as possible as many clinics closed after the state Supreme Court’s decision. The IVF legislation was approved by the Alabama House shortly after national Republican figures‚ including former President Donald Trump‚ called on the state’s legislature to preserve access to IVF. Last Friday‚ Trump posted a lengthy statement on Truth Social‚ saying that the Republican Party will always support families pursuing life‚ which he said includes couples seeking fertility treatments such as IVF. In an 8-1 ruling last week‚ the Alabama Supreme Court said that frozen embryos are protected by the state’s Wrongful Death of a Minor Act because the law protects all children regardless of their location. The ruling came after three couples sued the Center for Reproductive Medicine in Mobile after five frozen embryos from the couples were accidentally destroyed. They sued for wrongful death after the embryos were dropped after being moved out of one part of the clinic. The state Supreme Court’s ruling on the case also acknowledged that the Alabama legislature would need to address the issues that would arise for IVF providers after the decision was handed down‚ according to The Hill. In his concurring opinion‚ Chief Justice Tom Parker referenced several books from the Bible including Genesis‚ Exodus‚ and Jeremiah. He also cited thinkers like William Blackstone‚ Thomas Aquinas‚ John Calvin‚ and Petrus Van Mastricht. CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP “All three branches of government are subject to a constitutional mandate to treat each unborn human life with reverence. Carving out an exception for the people in this case‚ small as they were‚ would be unacceptable to the People of this State‚ who have required us to treat every human being in accordance with the fear of a holy God who made them in His image‚” Parker wrote. Controversy erupted after the ruling as President Joe Biden called it “outrageous and unacceptable” and said the Alabama decision was a “direct result” of the U.S. Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade and Trump’s pro-life policies. Multiple clinics in the state paused their IVF services following the decision‚ including the clinic at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Leif Le Mahieu contributed to this report. 

  In a shocking turn of events‚ retired wrestler Bill Jack Haynes‚ 70‚ has been charged with the fatal shooting of his 85-year-old wife in their Portland home. It’s a story that has rocked the sports world and raised questions about the responsibilities of fame and the consequences of unchecked violence. But as details continue to unfold‚ one perspective stands out among the rest – the Conservative viewpoint. For Conservatives‚ the news of Haynes’ arrest brings up a familiar debate – the role of personal responsibility. In a society that values individual freedoms and the right to bear arms‚ it’s no surprise that this tragic event has sparked discussions about the importance of self-control and accountability. With a long history of advocating for traditional family values and upholding the sanctity of marriage‚ the Conservative perspective sees this as a failure on Haynes’ part to uphold his vows and protect his loved one. Ex-wrestling star Billy Jack Haynes‚ 70‚ is charged with fatally shooting his wife‚ 85‚ at their Portland home less than two years after getting married https://t.co/pzlWDyGE7T — Mail Sport (@MailSport) February 29‚ 2024 But this case also highlights another issue that Conservatives have been vocal about – the dangers of a deteriorating moral fabric in society. Haynes‚ who was once a respected and admired figure in the wrestling community‚ has now been charged with the ultimate act of violence against his own spouse. This raises concerns about the influence of violent media and the lack of strong role models in the entertainment industry. In a world where violence is glamorized and morals are often disregarded‚ Conservatives see this as a tragic outcome of a society that has lost its way. #IMPOTUS…Wrestler Billy Jack Hayes implicated Bill &; Hillary Clinton in MURDER &; DRUG TRAFFICKING of 2 teenage boys. Is this TRUE? pic.twitter.com/3WxHQ1NJ5k — Lucy Lulu (@BigblueLucy) December 20‚ 2019 Furthermore‚ Conservatives are quick to point out the double standard in the media’s coverage of this event. Had Haynes been a member of a minority group or a prominent figure in the liberal community‚ the headlines would have been vastly different. The media’s tendency to sensationalize and politicize news stories only adds fuel to the fire and further divides the nation. As the saying goes‚ “if it bleeds‚ it leads‚” and Conservatives believe that the media’s bias is not only irresponsible but also harmful to the public discourse. But beyond the political and moral implications‚ there is also a human aspect to this tragedy. As details emerge about Haynes’ relationship with his wife and their history‚ Conservatives are reminded of the importance of mental health awareness and access to resources for those in need. It’s a reminder that behind every headline and news story‚ there are real people with real struggles‚ and it’s our duty as a society to address these issues with compassion and understanding. As the wrestling community mourns the loss of Haynes’ wife and tries to make sense of this senseless act‚ Conservatives are also grappling with the impact of this event on the sports world. With many calling for stricter regulations and background checks‚ the debate over gun control and the Second Amendment is reignited. But Conservatives remain steadfast in their belief that the issue at hand is not the accessibility of weapons but the moral compass of individuals and the need for a strong and united community. In the end‚ the tragic story of Bill Jack Haynes serves as a cautionary tale for all of us. It’s a reminder to stay vigilant in upholding our values‚ to be accountable for our actions‚ and to never underestimate the power of mental health. As the investigation continues and more details come to light‚ one thing is certain – this event will leave a lasting impact on the wrestling world and beyond. And for Conservatives‚ it serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences that come with straying from our principles.   The post Controversy and Tragedy Strikes the World of Wrestling: Conservative Perspective on the Bill Jack Haynes Shooting appeared first on The Conservative Brief.

Nowadays‚ there are countless pets on social media to adore‚ but many view Doug the Pug as the OG celebrity dog. In fact‚ that title is even in his bio! Over the years‚ this adorable pup has had the chance to meet celebrities from all walks of life. Still‚ nothing could have prepared him (and his owners) for the moment they met the Queen of Country herself‚ Dolly Parton! The two of them crossed paths at Parton’s recent Pet Gala. This event included lots of fun performances by the singer’s friends — as well as Parton herself‚ of course. And‚ as the name suggest‚ lots of four-legged friends were in attendance‚ too! Naturally‚ Doug had to get an invite. As soon as Parton spots the famous pug‚ she stops to say hello! Doug the Pug Meets Dolly Parton at Her Pet Gala @dougthepug STARSTRUCK I can’t believe I got to meet the Queen #dollyparton and she knew who I was!! As a Nashville native it is truly one of the highest honors. Yes‚ she is as kind and loving as you see! Had so much fun at her Pet Gala which aired last night. I can’t stop wearing Doggy Parton too! #DollysPetGala #dougthepug #dogsoftiktok ♬ original sound – Doug The Pug In a video capturing this iconic moment‚ Parton can be seen holding onto both of Doug’s front paws as she speaks to him. “I was just talking about you‚” she says. “I did! You got your tongue hanging out? I’ve had mine hanging out‚ too.” TikTok Doug manages to keep his cool‚ but inside‚ there’s no doubt he’s freaking out about meeting Parton. At least that’s how his humans feel! “I can’t believe I got to meet the Queen Dolly Parton‚ and she knew who I was!!” Doug the Pug’s caption reads. “As a Nashville native it is truly one of the highest honors. Yes‚ she is as kind and loving as you see!” You can find the source of this story’s featured image here! The post Doug The Pug Is “Starstruck” While Meeting A Dazzling Dolly Parton appeared first on InspireMore.

Have you ever heard of a leaf sheep? Contrary to their name‚ these adorable creatures are neither plants nor four-legged mammals. They’re actually a type of sea slug‚ and they’ve earned their affectionate “leaf sheep” nickname with their appearance. In fact‚ it’s kind of surreal how much these water-dwelling creatures look just like tiny‚ grazing sheep. Leaf sheep sea slugs have a special ability‚ too. According to an Instagram post‚ these critters can photosynthesize just like a plant! This is yet another reason their nickname is so apt. Want to see some amazing photos of these bizarre creatures? You won’t believe your eyes when you see how cute they are! 1. Isn’t this the most adorable face you’ve ever seen? Screengrab from Instagram This has to be the sweetest-looking slug on the entire planet. In fact‚ if we could keep one of these little critters as a pet‚ we totally would. 2. Look at the tiny‚ rosy cheeks on this leaf sheep sea slug! Wikimedia Commons We know that this leaf sheep sea slug isn’t actually blushing‚ but the pink markings on their face make them look a little bashful! The post Meet The Leaf Sheep‚ The Absolute Cutest Slug On Earth appeared first on InspireMore.

Public figure and chef Martha Stewart just got a new little baby in her family: an adorable Frenchie puppy! This sweet pup is joining her other French bulldog‚ and they’re a match made in heaven. I mean… look at that itty-bitty puppy sweater! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Martha Stewart (@marthastewart48) Martha Stewart shared the clip on Instagram a few days ago‚ captioned‚ “New Frenchie puppy LunaMoona learning to get along with Bete Noire They are all coexisting wonderfully.” We love LunaMoona! She couldn’t be cuter. Martha has more than just a couple Frenchies‚ though. In fact‚ she has a pair of Chow Chows named Emperor Han and Empress Qin. Just look at those squishy faces! This adorable image is from Instagram. With so many sweet dogs‚ Martha is serious Dog Mom Goals. Fans love her precious pups and are excited for her new four-legged friend. “In my next life I want to come back as one of Martha Stewart’s Frenchies‚” said one viewer. Another commenter shared her own relationship with the breed. “I love to see this. I have four little Frenchies and they are such wonderful dogs!” they said. Congratulations on the new addition to the family‚ Martha! The featured image for this post is from Instagram. The post Martha Stewart Welcomes Adorable New Addition To Her Four-Legged Family appeared first on InspireMore.

This little piggy has gone through some serious struggles. At a Mardi Gras celebration‚ this piglet faced a cruel fate when he was thrown around like a football. Thankfully‚ a better future awaits him. He was rescued by the Humane Society of Louisiana! A bystander witnessed the atrocious act of abuse and quickly stepped in to retrieve the piglet. Once she was safe‚ she gave the piglet to a friend who moved him straight to the humane society. This piglet didn’t deserve the terrible treatment he received at Mardi Gras and‚ thankfully‚ is on his way to a better life now. Thank goodness for this observant and action-taking bystander. This image is from YouTube. Viewers took to the comments to express their gratitude for their rescue — and their frustration with the abusers. “That’s one lucky piglet. How cruel to toss a loving creature like a football into a crowd. Grateful for the humanity of its savior‚” shared one viewer. This atrocious piglet abuse at Mardi Gras would have continued without the bystander acting fast. When you see unkind things happening around you‚ be sure to take action. It can save a life. The featured image for this post is from YouTube. The post Piglet Cruelly Tossed Through The Air At Mardi Gras Rescued — Finds Happily Ever After! appeared first on InspireMore.

'I used to believe in the heliocentric thing'

'misdemeanor domestic journo-terrorist'

Not 'conservative‚ pro-gun'