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How Washington outsider Jimmy Carter wooed voters tired of Vietnam and Watergate
Retailers coax Black Friday shoppers into stores with big discounts and giveaways NEW YORK (AP) — Retailers in the U.S. have used giveaways and bigger-than expected discounts to reward shoppers who ventured out on Black Friday. The day after Thanksgiving still reigns for now as the unofficial kickoff of the holiday shopping season even if it’s lost some luster. Analysts reported seeing the biggest crowds at stores that offered real savings. They say many shoppers are being cautious with their discretionary spending despite the easing of inflation. Stores are even more under the gun to get shoppers in to buy early and in bulk since there are five fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year. Online sales figures from Thanksgiving Day gave retailers a reason to remain hopeful for a lucrative end to the year. Trump and Republicans in Congress eye an ambitious 100-day agenda, starting with tax cuts WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans swept to power on Election Day and now control the House, the Senate and the White House, with plans for an ambitious 100-day agenda come January. Their to-do list includes extending tax breaks, cutting social programs, building the border wall to stop immigration and rolling back President Joe Biden's green energy policies. Atop that list is a plan to renew some $4 trillion in expiring tax cuts that were a signature domestic achievement of Republican Donald Trump’s first term as president. It's an issue that may define his return to the White House. The ruble's in a slump. For the Kremlin, that's a two-edged sword Russia’s ruble is sagging against other currencies, complicating the Kremlin’s efforts to keep consumer inflation under control with one hand even as it overheats the economy with spending on the war against Ukraine with the other. Over time a weaker ruble could mean higher prices for imports from China, Russia's main trade partner these days. President Vladimir Putin says things are under control. One wild card is sanctions against a key Russian bank that have disrupted foreign trade payments. If Russia finds a workaround for that, the ruble could regain some of its recent losses. Why your favorite catalogs are smaller this holiday season PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — While retailers hope to go big this holiday season, customers may notice that the catalogs arriving in their mailboxes are smaller. Many of the millions of catalogs getting sent to U.S. homes were scaled down to save on postage and paper. Some gift purveyors are sending out postcards. In a sign of the times, the American Catalog Mailers Association rebranded itself in May as the American Commerce Marketing Association. Despite no longer carrying an extended inventory of goods, industry experts say catalogs help retailers cut through the noise and still hold their own in value because of growing digital advertising costs. Massachusetts lawmakers push for an effort to ban all tobacco sales over time BOSTON (AP) — A handful of Massachusetts lawmakers are hoping to persuade their colleagues to support a proposal that would make the state the first to adopt a ban meant to eliminate the use of tobacco products over time. Other locations have weighed similar “generational tobacco bans.” The bans phase out the use of tobacco products based not just on a person's age but on birth year. Lawmakers plan to file the proposal next year. If approved, the bill would set a date and ban the sale of tobacco to anyone born after that date forever, eventually banning all sales. Vietnam approves $67 billion high-speed railway project between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city HANOI, Vietnam (AP) — Vietnam has approved the construction of a high-speed railway connecting the capital Hanoi in the north with the financial capital of Ho Chi Minh in the south. It is expected to cost $67 billion and will stretch 1,541 kilometers (957 miles). The new train is expected to travel at speeds of up to 350 kph (217 mph), reducing the journey from the current 30 hours to just five hours. The decision was taken by Vietnam’s National Assembly on Saturday. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 and Vietnam hopes that the first trains will start operating by 2035. But the country has been beleaguered by delays to its previous infrastructure projects. Inflation rose to 2.3% in Europe. That won't stop the central bank from cutting interest rates FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Inflation in the 20 countries that use the euro currency rose in November — but that likely won’t stop the European Central Bank from cutting interest rates as the prospect of new U.S. tariffs from the incoming Trump administration adds to the gloom over weak growth. The European Union’s harmonized index of consumer prices rose 2.3 percent, up from 2.0% in October, according to EU statistics agency Eurostat. However, worries about growth mean the Dec. 12 ECB meeting is not about whether to cut rates, but by how much. Market buzz says there could be a larger than usual half-point cut in the benchmark rate, currently 3.25%. Stock market today: S&P 500 and Dow post gains and close out best month of 2024 NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks closed with solid gains as Wall Street put the finishing touches on one of its best months of the year. The S&P 500 rose 0.6% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 188 points, or 0.4%. The Nasdaq added 0.8%. Friday was an abbreviated trading day, with stocks closing at 1 p.m. ET and the bond market an hour later. Investors were looking to see how much shoppers are willing to spend on gifts for the holidays. Black Friday unofficially kicked off the holiday shopping season, although retailers had been offering early deals for weeks. Macy’s and Best Buy each gained around 2%. From T-shirts to thongs, how indie film merchandise became a hot commodity LOS ANGELES (AP) — Merchandise is nothing new. But in recent years, movie-inspired streetwear has exploded in popularity among film buffs, thanks in part to viral marketing campaigns put on by independent film studios. Take the hourslong line for one-day-only “Anora” pop-up in Los Angeles, for instance. Clothes are promoted as trendy and in limited supply and are often made in collaboration with popular brands. The experience of watching movies has become a less collective one in recent years. For many fans, repping their favorite films in public is a way to combat that. Santa's annual train visit delivers hope and magic to one corner of coal country ON BOARD THE SANTA TRAIN (AP) — Since 1943, the people of Appalachian Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee have looked forward to Santa’s arrival. Not in a sleigh on their rooftops, but on a train. At each stop of the CSX Santa Train there are dozens to hundreds of people. Many crowd around the back, where Santa and his helpers toss stuffed animals. Meanwhile groups of volunteer “elves” fan out with gifts, making sure every child goes home with something. Many of the children who line the tracks on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, waiting for Santa, are the third, fourth or fifth generation to do so. Sandra Owens has been coming for 43 years and now brings her grandchildren. She says, “The faces of the kids, that’s what makes me happy. You can’t see anything better.”Goodman Group shines among Australian property firms on data-centre push
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Some MPs who backed the assisted dying Bill have indicated they could consider changing their mind along the process amid concerns over palliative care provision and safeguarding. MPs will be able to suggest amendments to the legislation when it moves into its next parliamentary step, the committee stage, at a date which is yet to be announced. On Friday, MPs voted 330 to 275, majority 55, to approve Labour MP Kim Leadbeater’s Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill at second reading. Following the historic vote, some MPs have voiced concerns over parts of the Bill that could prevent them opting in its favour at later stages of the process. “I think all of us want this to be a good Bill,” she said. “I would hope that colleagues across the House, especially those who voted for it, reserve the right to vote no at further stages.” She said that arguments against the plans need to be taken “extraordinarily seriously”. Senior Conservative MP Sir David Davis – another backer of the Bill – used his Commons speech to ask the Government for more time to scrutinise it, to “give us the time to get this right”. He told the Commons: “I want this Bill to succeed, it’s more important than most bills we have. It can’t be dealt with in five hours and a few hours in committee. “I’m going to vote for it today, but I want the Government to help me be able to vote for a good Bill at the end of this.” Labour MP Chris Webb suggested that his position on the matter may change as the plans move through the process, saying in a statement that he believes “this Bill deserved to progress to the next stage for further robust scrutiny and debate” and he “will consider my position again in the ensuing stages”. Today in Parliament I voted in support of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. This is not a decision I came to lightly. Over recent weeks I have spent a lot of time listening carefully to the views on both sides, from experts, medical professionals and my constituents.... pic.twitter.com/XoUMOXBmTH — Chris Webb MP (@ChrisWebbMP) November 29, 2024 There were three Conservative MPs and 18 Labour MPs for whom no vote was recorded on Friday. SNP MPs did not vote as the matter only applied to England and Wales. There are numerous reasons that an MP may not be able to take part in a vote – such as being abroad or away from Parliament – however, a number have indicated that they intentionally abstained. Josh Fenton-Glynn, the new Labour MP for Calder Valley, said that he had abstained because “as it stands, I don’t think the safeguards are strong enough”. Despite having previously thought that he would “support a Bill like this” he said in a statement on social media he would make his “final decision based on the Bill as it’s written that comes out of the committee stage”. TERMINALLY ILL ADULTS (END OF LIFE) BILLToday I attended the second reading of the terminally ill adults (end of life) bill, proposed by the MP for Spen Valley Kim Leadbeater. I went in to the session still undecided on weather I’d support it keen to listen to arguments from... — Josh Fenton-Glynn MP (@JoshFG) November 29, 2024 End-of-life care charity Marie Curie had also raised concerns about palliative care and has called for MPs to enshrine a commitment for developing a strategy on the matter into the legislation. They said in a briefing sent to parliamentarians before the second reading that they want an amendment to the legislation that would impose a duty on ministers to develop a strategy to improve palliative and end-of-life care. The charity’s chief executive, Matthew Reed, said that the organisation is “neutral” on the subject of assisted dying, “but what we are absolutely not neutral on is the need to urgently fix end-of-life care”. In a statement after the vote, Mr Reed said: “Warm words won’t fix our broken end-of-life care system. The Bill says nothing about the urgent need to improve existing provision. It says nothing about the postcode lottery for access to end-of-life care, nothing about the funding crisis, and nothing about people spending their final moments in A&E because our health system can’t offer them the care and support they need, in or out of hours.” On Saturday, Mother of the House Diane Abbott had said that she was “worried that vulnerable people will get swept up in the assisted dying route”. Ms Abbott was one of the 275 MPs who voted against the plans in Parliament. Asked why, the MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “I am very worried that vulnerable people will get swept up in the assisted dying route, when actually what they really need is access to hospice care and proper end-of-life care.” She said that she has “every sympathy” for other positions, but wants people to “not see supported suicide as the only option” if they have concerns such as being a “burden” or worries about the family finances.Minnesota looks to stop skid vs. Bethune-Cookman
The US tech giant said it now supported 550,000 jobs in the UK through direct employment, its supply chain and the economy around its App Store – with app developers having earned nearly £9 billion since it launched in 2008. Apple said its engineering teams were carrying out critical work on the firm’s biggest services, including key technology within Apple Intelligence, the iPhone maker’s suite of generative AI-powered tools which are expected to launch in the UK for the first time this week. Elsewhere, the firm said its growing TV empire, spearheaded by its Apple TV+ streaming service and production arm, had also helped boost its investment in the UK with Apple TV+ production in this country tripling in the last two years, the company said. Chief executive Tim Cook said: “We’ve been serving customers in the UK for more than 40 years, and we’re proud of our deep connection with communities across this country. “We’re thrilled to be growing our Apple teams here, and to keep supporting the extraordinary innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs who are pushing the boundaries of technology in so many ways.” The Chancellor Rachel Reeves said companies such as Apple were “intrinsic” to the UK’s prosperity by boosting jobs. “This government is laser focused on creating the right conditions for growth to help put more money in people’s pockets. “That’s what underpins the Plan for Change and is what has driven £63 billion worth of inward investment in the UK through our first international investment summit. “Companies like Apple are intrinsic to the success of our nation’s prosperity – helping deliver jobs, innovative technology, and boost infrastructure.”
WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump called his meeting with Justin Trudeau productive and said the prime minister made a commitment to work with the United States to end the drug crisis amid the threat of stiff tariffs. "We discussed many important topics that will require both Countries to work together to address, like the Fentanyl and Drug Crisis that has decimated so many lives as a result of Illegal Immigration, Fair Trade Deals that do not jeopardize American Workers, and the massive Trade Deficit the U.S. has with Canada," Trump said in a post on Truth Social Saturday. Trudeau flew to Florida Friday evening to attend a dinner at Mar-a-Lago, where Trump's transition team is based. The in-person meeting came at the end of a rocky week in which Trump threatened to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico, unless the two countries stop illegal border crossings and prevent illicit drugs from entering the United States. Trudeau thanked Trump for the dinner in a post on social media on Saturday. "I look forward to the work we can do together, again," Trudeau said in the post that included a picture of the two leaders sitting at a table and smiling together. Trump said he and Trudeau discussed the drug crisis and the president-elect made it "very clear that the United States will no longer sit idly by as our Citizens become victims" of the drug epidemic, which he attributed to cartels and fentanyl coming from China. "Prime Minister Trudeau has made a commitment to work with us to end this terrible devastation of U.S. Families," Trump posted. Trump's post did not directly mention tariffs and it's unclear whether the prime minister's visit has alleviated his concerns about the border. A statement from the Prime Minister's Office said the leaders "shared a productive wide-ranging discussion" centred on collaboration and strengthening the bilateral relationship. "As Canada's closest friend and ally, the United States is our key partner, and we are committed to working together in the interests of Canadians and Americans," the statement said. Trudeau had a notably rocky relationship with the Republican leader during the first Trump administration. However, the prime minister was the first G7 leader to visit Trump since the Nov. 5 election. Trudeau's invitation to Mar-a-Lago says a lot about the working relationship, a senior government source said, speaking on background. The dinner lasted more than three hours. Sources said Trudeau and Trump discussed trade, border security, Ukraine, NATO, icebreakers, the Middle East and the Group of Seven meeting in Alberta next year. They also talked about energy projects, including the Keystone Pipeline, Line 5, Trans Mountain Pipeline, and other topics related to liquefied natural gas. It was described as a friendly and welcoming dinner. Trump's social media post about the meeting with Trudeau appeared much more collaborative in tone than his response to a phone call with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum earlier this week after which he claimed a tariff victory. Trump wrote Wednesday that Sheinbaum had agreed to stop unauthorized migration across the border into the United States, "effectively closing our Southern Border." The Mexican president said that it was an "excellent" conversation but countered that her country was already doing its part. "We reiterate that Mexico's position is not to close borders but to build bridges between governments and between peoples," Sheinbaum said. Trump's return to the White House has brought concern to America's closest neighbours. He has long used the threat of import taxes to pressure other countries to do his bidding, saying last summer that "the most beautiful word in the dictionary is 'tariff.'" The Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement is up for review in 2026 and experts suspect this week's tariff announcement is a negotiating tactic. Canadian premiers have been calling on Trudeau to be more proactive in his approach to the incoming Trump administration. More than 77 per cent of Canadian exports go to the United States and provincial leaders have said Trump's duties would be devastating. Ontario Premier Doug Ford said he was glad Trudeau met Trump to learn more about the president-elect's concerns. But Ottawa has to show the premiers a plan to make the border more secure to avoid "disastrous tariffs," Ford said in a statement on social media. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she believed Trump and Trudeau had a constructive conversation. Speaking on her provincewide call-in radio shown Saturday, Smith said it was notable the conversation included the energy sector. Canada is the largest source of U.S. energy imports, and almost all Canadian crude oil exports went to its neighbour in 2023. The Alberta premier said it's critical to demonstrate how Canada's energy aligns with American's domestic and international interest. "Our strategy is this: let's talk to the Americans about the things we know they need and use that as a leverage point to make sure that we have zero tariffs on all goods," Smith said. — With files from Kyle Duggan in Ottawa, Rob Drinkwater in Edmonton and The Associated Press This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 30, 2024. Kelly Geraldine Malone, The Canadian Press
Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, has died at the age of 100. He died after spending more than a year in hospice care. Carter grew up on a peanut farm in Georgia and served in the U.S. Navy before turning to politics. He served one term as the president of the United States from 1977 to 1981. Following his time in the White House, Carter dedicated his life to humanitarian work, and was a major contributor to Habitat for Humanity. His post-presidential international diplomatic work earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec, 29, 2024. The Canadian PressFall is the best time to think about cooking soup. Here’s 5 recipes you’ll want to try
NoneGaetz withdraws as Trump's pick for attorney general, averting confirmation battle in the SenateWall Street is buzzing with anticipation as investors look toward a potential “Santa Rally,” the seasonal trend where stocks typically rise in the final days of December. Historically, during the window from December 24 to December 31, the S&P 500 has enjoyed gains in 64 out of the last 96 years, with an average uptick of 0.85%. Despite beginning the week with market optimism, prompted by hopes of recovering from the Federal Reserve’s caution on rate cuts in 2024, a wave of volatility on Friday has cast doubts over the rally’s sustainability. Investors remain cautious, balancing the Fed’s policy direction with uncertainties surrounding the incoming Trump administration’s economic initiatives. Looking ahead, 2024 is poised to be a landmark year. The S&P 500 is on pace to replicate the previous year’s 24% surge, forecasting a remarkable two-year gain of 55%, the strongest performance since 1999. U.S. stocks continue to outstrip global markets, bolstered by robust economic fundamentals. Palantir Technologies has commanded attention on the leaderboards, with an impressive 360% surge, surpassing Nvidia’s significant 175% gain. Analysts even draw comparisons to giants like Oracle. However, U.S. consumer confidence slipped in December, painting a concerning picture of future economic conditions. The decline in the expectations index signals vulnerabilities as 2025 approaches, fueled by fears of persistent inflation and high interest rates. In the automotive sector, GM’s Cadillac Lyriq has emerged as a standout in the luxury EV market, underscoring a shift towards high-margin, upscale electric vehicles. As market dynamics evolve, all eyes are on these critical developments shaping the economic landscape. Unveiling 2024 Market Trends: From Santa Rallies to Electric Luxuries As we edge into 2024, the financial markets and economic landscapes are set for significant developments, ushering in both opportunities and challenges for investors and businesses alike. Here’s a breakdown of key insights, trends, and predictions to watch. Significant Market Trends and Predictions The financial community is eagerly watching for a potential “Santa Rally” in the stock market, a phenomenon where equities experience a boost during the final days of December. Historically, the S&P 500 has seen gains in 64 of the past 96 years during this window. However, despite the optimism, recent market volatility raises questions about this year’s rally. Anticipating a landmark year, the S&P 500 is on course to replicate last year’s 24% surge, potentially culminating in a notable two-year gain of 55%. This performance would mark the strongest since 1999, driven by robust economic fundamentals in the United States. Notably, U.S. stocks have outperformed their global counterparts, reinforcing investor confidence. Impressive Growth of Tech and Automotive Giants Palantir Technologies has captured market attention with a staggering 360% price surge, surpassing Nvidia’s remarkable 175% increase. These numbers place Palantir alongside tech giants such as Oracle, showcasing its substantial growth and market influence. Turning to the automotive industry, GM’s Cadillac Lyriq has emerged as a leader in the luxury electric vehicle (EV) market. This highlights the industry’s shift towards high-margin, upscale electric options, reflecting evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. Economic Concerns and Consumer Confidence While the stock market may be thriving, U.S. consumer confidence has seen a dip in December, raising concerns about future economic conditions. The decline in the expectations index suggests potential vulnerabilities, as fears of persistent inflation and high interest rates loom. Market Dynamics and Controversies The complex interplay of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policies, geopolitical uncertainties, and evolving economic initiatives, particularly with the incoming administration, adds layers of complexity to market predictions. Investors must navigate these dynamics carefully to capitalize on opportunities without unwarranted risks. Insights into Sustainability and Innovations In sync with the growing demand for sustainable solutions, companies like GM bolster their EV offerings to align with eco-friendly trends. This transition not only meets regulatory requirements but also enhances brand positioning in an environment increasingly driven by sustainability. Conclusion As we navigate into 2024, a combination of robust stock market performances, technological advancements, and shifting consumer preferences sets the stage for an economically dynamic year. However, managing risks related to consumer sentiment and global economic uncertainties will be critical. For a deeper dive into market trends and innovations, visit the CNBC .The US tech giant said it now supported 550,000 jobs in the UK through direct employment, its supply chain and the economy around its App Store – with app developers having earned nearly £9 billion since it launched in 2008. Apple said its engineering teams were carrying out critical work on the firm’s biggest services, including key technology within Apple Intelligence, the iPhone maker’s suite of generative AI-powered tools which are expected to launch in the UK for the first time this week. Elsewhere, the firm said its growing TV empire, spearheaded by its Apple TV+ streaming service and production arm, had also helped boost its investment in the UK with Apple TV+ production in this country tripling in the last two years, the company said. Chief executive Tim Cook said: “We’ve been serving customers in the UK for more than 40 years, and we’re proud of our deep connection with communities across this country. “We’re thrilled to be growing our Apple teams here, and to keep supporting the extraordinary innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs who are pushing the boundaries of technology in so many ways.” The Chancellor Rachel Reeves said companies such as Apple were “intrinsic” to the UK’s prosperity by boosting jobs. “This government is laser focused on creating the right conditions for growth to help put more money in people’s pockets. “That’s what underpins the Plan for Change and is what has driven £63 billion worth of inward investment in the UK through our first international investment summit. “Companies like Apple are intrinsic to the success of our nation’s prosperity – helping deliver jobs, innovative technology, and boost infrastructure.”
Apple’s UK engineering teams have ‘doubled in size in five years’
The Kansas City Chiefs will have a short break after Week 12 before they face the Las Vegas Raiders on Black Friday for an AFC West clash. Although they are 10-1, the Chiefs have dealt with injuries to multiple impactful starters on both sides of the ball. However, it seems they may get one of those impactful starters back on Friday. © Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports Defensive end Charles Omenihu has been out since the AFC Championship in January with a torn ACL. The team took him off injured reserve prior to Week 11, but he still has yet to see any game action as he continues to ramp up his workload in practice. Now, it seems that Chiefs fans may see him make his season debut against Las Vegas. On Tuesday, Omenihu responded to an old post he made back in April with highlights from a past matchup against the Raiders. In his response, Omenihu posted two cryptic emojis, the letter "P" and a snake. Although this doesn't confirm that Omenihu will return, as that will likely come down to a decision between coaches and trainers, it does seem to be a sign that the defensive end plans to take the field on Friday. Related: Mahomes Reflects On Clutch Video Going Viral In his seventh season, Omenihu posted career-best numbers with Kansas City in 2023, which was also his first year with the team. In just 11 appearances, he finished the season with 28 combined tackles, seven sacks and two forced fumbles. After struggling the past two weeks, the Chiefs' defense could use a spark that Omenihu could certainly provide. Related: Mahomes Details The One Benefit Of Close WinsRALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina election officials won't order another recount in a close state Supreme Court race after a partial hand recount failed to suggest the trailing Republican candidate could overtake the Democratic incumbent. Following the completion of a machine recount of over 5.5 million ballots last week, Democratic Associate Justice Allison Riggs maintained a 734-vote lead over Republican Jefferson Griffin, who is currently a state Court of Appeals judge. Griffin then requested a partial hand recount in which randomly chosen ballots from 3% of the voting sites in all 100 counties were reexamined. The law says a statewide hand recount would have been required if the sample results differed enough so that the result would be reversed if the difference were extrapolated to all ballots. But the sample tabulations, which finished Tuesday, showed Riggs actually picking up more votes than Griffin. As a result, the State Board of Elections said a total recount won't be ordered. The election, however, has not been fully resolved. The five-member state board was scheduled to hear arguments Wednesday on protests previously filed by Griffin and three GOP legislative candidates who also are in very close elections. Riggs, one of two Democrats on the seven-member court, declared victory again on Tuesday, and her campaign renewed calls for Griffin to concede. Griffin didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The protests going before the state board, which question if well over 60,000 ballots should have been counted, cover three categories of voting. They include votes cast by people with voter registration records that lack driver’s licenses or partial Social Security numbers; overseas voters who have never lived in North Carolina but whose parents were deemed state residents; and military or overseas voters who did not provide copies of photo identification with their ballots. Separately Tuesday, a Court of Appeals panel unanimously declined Griffin's request to order the state board to rule on the protests before Wednesday's meeting to accelerate the process. The board could dismiss the protests or — if problems are found — order corrected ballot tallies, more recounts or new elections. Decisions by the board — with a 3-2 Democratic majority — can be appealed to state courts. Other protests filed by Griffin and the legislative candidates are being first considered by county boards. The state Democratic Party filed a federal lawsuit last week seeking to block the State Board of Elections from ruling in any way to throw out the disputed ballots. The Democrats' lawyers say federal law prohibits such systematic challenges to voter eligibility for an election that has already passed. Some of the protests focus on activities that Republicans already sued over before the November election. Democratic officials and their allies held a news conference early Tuesday outside the state Supreme Court building and strongly criticized Griffin and other Republicans for initiating claims they say would disenfranchise legal voters. North Carolina Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton said she fears the state Supreme Court could ultimately side with Republicans and remove the challenged ballots. “We are trying to make sure that people are raising their voices, that we are filing lawsuits where we can,” Clayton said. “And we are also trusting the process of our board of elections officials to do their job and to count every single vote.” Griffin led Riggs by about 10,000 votes on election night, but that lead dwindled and flipped to Riggs as qualifying provisional and absentee ballots were added to the totals. Other types of protests filed by Griffin and the legislators are being considered by county boards. The Associated Press has not called the Supreme Court race and two of the three legislative races highlighted in the protests. In one of the two, Republican state Rep. Frank Sossamon trails Democratic challenger Bryan Cohn. A Cohn victory would mean Republicans fall one seat short of retaining their current veto-proof majority starting next month.UCL: Man City blow 3-0 lead to draw Feyenoord
Mikaela Shiffrin suffers abrasion on hip during crash on final run of World Cup giant slalom