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DJO charges hundreds in $830m Covid fraud crackdown

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In a major nationwide operation, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has brought criminal charges against 371 individuals involved in a sweeping crackdown on Covid-19 fraud, targeting a staggering $830 million in stolen relief funds, according to an official DOJ statement.

The initiative has already proven successful, with the recovery of $231 million in illicitly obtained funds. Moreover, it has exposed the alarming connection between more than 60 defendants and violent crime as well as transnational criminal networks.

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, during a roundtable meeting with law enforcement officials, revealed some shocking details. In one particularly alarming case, 30 members of a street gang in Wisconsin allegedly utilized funds obtained through an unemployment fraud scheme to solicit murder-for-hire, as well as to purchase firearms and drugs.

Another case on the international stage involved four individuals charged with pandemic relief fraud and money laundering with connections to Nigeria.

Applying for assistance

Many of the individuals targeted in this operation are accused of fraudulently applying for assistance through programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans. These programs were designed to support small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic, as outlined in a DOJ press release.

This crackdown comes in response to concerns raised by a government watchdog, which estimated in June that fraudsters could have siphoned off more than $200 billion intended for struggling businesses. This amount accounts for 17% of the total $1.2 trillion disbursed for pandemic relief.

The nationwide operation spanned three months, from May to July, and involved three strike teams in California, Maryland, and South Florida. These teams collaborated with 50 U.S. attorneys and over a dozen law enforcement partners.

Additionally, the DOJ is further bolstering its efforts to recover stolen pandemic relief funds by establishing two new strike teams in Colorado and New Jersey. Deputy Attorney General Monaco emphasized that the DOJ is committed to seeking judicial orders that will compel convicted defendants to return every ill-gotten dollar, with a window of 20 years to achieve these recoveries.

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland initiated a task force in May 2021 specifically to target those who had fraudulently obtained Covid-19 relief money. To date, the task force has successfully pressed criminal charges against over 3,000 individuals and seized more than $1.4 billion in stolen pandemic relief funds, according to the DOJ.

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Albanese warns against Trump-style politics in Australia

Albanese warns Australia against adopting US-style politics, linking Dutton to Trump amid election discussions on trade.

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Albanese warns Australia against adopting US-style politics, linking Dutton to Trump amid election discussions on trade.

In Short

Anthony Albanese warns against the influence of US politics, particularly Donald Trump’s divisive style, on Australia.

He expressed the need to maintain Australia’s unique political culture as the nation approaches its election.

Anthony Albanese has made significant comments regarding Donald Trump and the impact of US politics on Australia. The Prime Minister expressed that the division in the US has implications for Liberal leader Peter Dutton.

Mr Trump has suggested he may discuss tariffs with Australia after the upcoming election. Albanese cautioned Australians against adopting US-style politics.

He stated that voters in Australia are not receptive to Trump’s influence or Dutton’s alignment with him.

President Trump acknowledged Australia’s outreach on trade matters.

Open to talk

When asked if he would discuss trade with Mr Albanese, Trump confirmed he would be open to conversation. Albanese reiterated the importance of maintaining Australia’s unique political culture.

He pointed out that Australians perceive the US as a polarized society, which is unhealthy.

In an exclusive interview, Albanese emphasized that Australians do not desire such division in their political landscape. His remarks highlight the contrast between Australian and American political dynamics.

This ongoing dialogue between leaders reflects concerns about the potential importation of divisive politics into Australia.

Albanese’s comments serve as a reminder of the risks associated with political extremism. As Australia heads into its election, the Prime Minister’s warnings could resonate with voters prioritising unity and stability.

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Democrats rally against Trump amid voter dissatisfaction

Democrats intensify resistance to Trump amid voter dissatisfaction with leadership, planning speeches and protests to showcase opposition efforts.

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Democrats intensify resistance to Trump amid voter dissatisfaction with leadership, planning speeches and protests to showcase opposition efforts.

In Short

Congressional Democrats are under pressure to oppose President Trump as he completes his first 100 days in office, feeling their base is dissatisfied with their efforts.

They are organising events and speeches to highlight their resistance while acknowledging challenges due to their minority status.

Congressional Democrats face significant challenges as President Donald Trump marks his first 100 days in office.

The party is increasingly anxious that base voters feel they are not doing enough to oppose the administration.

In response, Democrats have organised a series of speeches, sit-ins, and events aimed at showing they are actively resisting Trump’s controversial policies.

Senate Democrats plan to keep the floor open late into the evening to deliver speeches critical of what Minority Leader Chuck Schumer describes as “100 days of hell.”

Trump’s agenda

They will gather with House Democrats on the Senate steps to voice their opposition to Trump’s agenda.

Schumer expressed their commitment, stating that they will consistently highlight the differences between Democratic unity and Republican disarray.

He stressed that resistance will come from Democrats, the courts, and the American public as long as Trump pursues what he calls a dangerous path.

Democrats face mounting pressure from voters dissatisfied with their efforts to oppose the president.

Recent polling indicates a significant disapproval of congressional leadership within the Democratic party, with 61% of voters expressing dissatisfaction with Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

With Republicans controlling the White House and Congress, Democrats find it challenging to block administration initiatives.

Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin acknowledged the frustration among their supporters but emphasised their commitment to doing their best given their minority status.

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Carney’s Liberals poised for Canadian election victory

Mark Carney’s Liberals projected to win Canadian election, promising economic reform and a robust stance against Trump.

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Mark Carney’s Liberals projected to win Canadian election, promising economic reform and a robust stance against Trump.

In Short

Canadians are likely to re-elect Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberal Party, aiming to tackle economic challenges and U.S. relations.

Carney’s leadership has gained voter support, positioning him against Conservative rhetoric and focusing on strengthening Canada’s economy and trade ties.

Canadians are projected to retain the Liberal Party under Prime Minister Mark Carney in the recent national elections.

Carney, a former central banker, is expected to address economic challenges and respond to U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims about Canada’s economy.

The Liberals aim for a fourth term, although it is uncertain if they will secure a majority. Carney took over as Prime Minister following Justin Trudeau’s resignation earlier this year.

The Conservatives were leading by over 20 points in January but the political landscape shifted after Trump’s return. Carney positioned himself as the candidate capable of managing relationships with the U.S. and rebuilding Canada’s economy, which heavily depends on American demand.

Leadership skills

Polling data indicated a turning tide for the Liberals, as voters appreciated Carney’s leadership skills. After a conversation with Trump, Carney mentioned plans to discuss a new economic and security agreement post-election.

He plans to increase military investment while maintaining Canadian sovereignty on key issues like resources and language laws.

Carney has emphasised the need to enhance trade ties with Europe and Asia, aiming to reduce barriers within Canada. With his background in finance during critical periods, he aims to bring confidence back to the economy through tax reforms and targeted spending.

Pierre Poilievre’s Conservative rhetoric reportedly alienated some voters, amplifying support for Carney as the viable choice against Trump’s influence.

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