Tag: Face

  • 5 WWE Rivals John Cena Should Face One Last Time


    You Don’t Know What You Got ‘Til It’s Gone

    This classic Joni Mitchell lyric resonates in pop culture because it is true: Nothing lasts forever. 2025 is the last year we’ll see John Cena competing in a WWE ring. Many fans, despite Cena’s polarising career, will miss the face that runs the place. Yet, physically in the ring, John Cena is not the competitor he once was.

    Since transitioning to Hollywood, Cena’s last few bouts have been unmemorable or insignificant. Passing the torch to Austin Theory and Solo Sikoa was a letdown. The reasons go beyond Cena’s control. However, Cena has never been a work-rate wrestler. He’s always had an unpolished streak. Being out of the ring for so long, plus time and age, nature takes its course.

    Realistically, the in-ring performance doesn’t matter as much. This final year for Super Cena could easily coast on nostalgia, Cena’s talking prowess, and goodwill. Plus, the overarching story of can Cena win one more world title.

    But fans don’t want to see an athlete, like aging music, pretending to be still what they once were. AEW currently has this with Chris Jericho. Both matches and a documentary series have worn away at The Undertaker’s omnipotence and impacted perceptions of his legacy.

    Nostalgia has been potent for so long. Nevertheless, utilizing some of Cena’s previous and best opponents could do more than cover up weaknesses. Possibly even help the re-evaluation and appreciation of Cena’s legacy.

    Sheamus

    A strange choice, but there are both story and practical reasons.

    Over time, fan appreciation and respect for Sheamus has grown. The Celtic Warrior has become a consistent banger merchant during a career Renaissance. Sheamus is more than a safe pair of hands who could pummel Cena in a way that evokes pathos.

    Sheamus’ is the Benjamin Button of WWE. It’s like the Irishman’s career has gone backward, peaking at its beginning with two WWE Championship victories and then moving down the card. Who did Sheamus beat for that first world championship? John Cena.

    A match or feud with these two could help re-write and re-evaluate both men’s forgettable earlier clashes. Especially given how both men have changed.

    Sheamus, as a heel viciously taking over a decade of frustration out of Cena, could end a so-so rivalry with a bruising red-chested banger. Giving Cena a credible win in a grueling contest would allow him to display his never-give-up attitude in a way that would feel earned.

    A solid story beat if Cena is going to win another world title. For Sheamus, it would be validation for the character and wrestler.

    Seth Rollins

    John Cena and Seth Rollins are foils, yet their careers parallel each other in various ways. Their striking differences in lifestyle, origin, wrestling styles, and personalities. Although similarly, both initially struggled to find their place in the WWE system.

    Each took turns as the flagbearer and locker room leader. They defended the company and took insults and mockery for it. Despite their differences, both are good examples of company men.

    Unlike Rollins, Cena never changed who he was when he became the world champion. Think of the number of gimmicks, adjustments, and wardrobes Rollins has burned through. Likewise, how many times did Cena have to accept stepping aside for someone else to take the spotlight?

    A story of jealousy could result in some cutting promo battles that leave both men looking diamond-sharp. Reexamining their “company guy” personas with a deeper and more personal look would allow The Visionary to emphasize how, during difficult times, he was the guy WWE needed him to be.

    In contrast, Cena defending his stability would emphasize his character’s integrity and willpower.

    The result in the ring could match or be compared with the pair’s previous ten singles matches, which produced some of Cena’s best work.

    AJ Styles

    AJ Styles could return soon. Another round or series between two of the defining wrestlers of the 2000s and 2010s seems like a no-brainer. AJ Styles is one of Cena’s last great opponents. Both men elevated each other in their previous rivalry.

    Cena made Styles a WWE stalwart. Styles made Cena rhythmic in-ring. Plus, there is so much story left on the table that’s not been explored.

    A story that doesn’t have to rely on their pasts. Like Cena, Styles is getting closer to the end of his career. As another foil and parallel, Styles could stand in Cena’s way of the world championship.

    Styles could want the gold for himself to cement his legacy. Such stakes for both men would elevate the world championship’s prestige and could be the heart of their story.

    Also, the possibility of a post-match show of mutual respect between the former TNA original and WWE centerpiece would make another historical moment and milestone for both men’s careers.

    Kevin Owens

    Kevin Owens cracked the code in WWE. No matter the feud or card position, Owens makes it work. During an era when some heels floundered creatively after fighting John Cena, Owens won gold and remains a utility player with credibility.

    He is capable of making any feud or stakes meaningful with his silver tongue and passion.

    Owens’s current heel persona doesn’t stand on ceremony and sees through the aura. If there is a wrestler vicious enough to rip through the veneer of hustle, loyalty, and respect and expose Cena as out of his depth, making Cena an actual underdog because wrestling has moved on, and now Cena is a relic of the past, it’s Owens.

    In establishing and making fans believe Cena is not the invulnerable, indestructible figure he once was, Owens can do it.

    CM Punk

    Even if it’s just in promos rather than in a match, not having CM Punk and John Cena spar again would be a wasted opportunity. Their perfect foils and enemies.

    Punk rock vs. conventional jock; alternative individualism vs. mainstream corporate; indy vs. sports entertainment. More recently, company man since his return vs. company man forever.

    The latter is a rich vein of jewels that remains within the Punk “you left” narrative. It just needs to be struck at the right angle.

    Punk can articulate some fans’ thoughts into a headline. Is this final run a vanity project rather than for the fans? And in return, Cena can point out a perceived hypocrisy.

    Why is CM Punk suddenly a company man? Beyond the change of management and culture change, Punk subtly took credit for it. Praising corporate synergy isn’t punk.

    While opposites, what joined Punk and Cena is their integrity and beliefs. Yet CM Punk has somewhat become a mascot, something Punk demonized Cena for being. In addition, Cena persisted when the business took him from his body, health, and personal life, and fans hated him. He remained true to himself. If Punk was honest, who’s the real sellout?

    It flips the dynamic of their historic feud. With CM Punk playing against the cruel heel, there’s more than nostalgia. As shown from Punk’s feud with Drew McIntyre, although the body weakens, the mind can sharpen. Punk could be the man who makes John Cena’s Superman feel timeless. Make fans want just one more match.

    More From LWOS Pro Wrestling

    Header photo – WWE – Stay tuned to the Last Word on Pro Wrestling for more on the WWE Royal Rumble and other stories from around the world of wrestling, as they develop. You can always count on LWOPW to be on top of the major news in the wrestling world, as well as to provide you with analysis, previews, videos, interviews, and editorials on the wrestling world. You can check out an almost unlimited array of WWE content on the WWE Network and Peacock.


    1. The Rock – John Cena and The Rock have had some epic battles in the past, including headlining WrestleMania. A final showdown between these two icons would be a must-see event.
    2. Randy Orton – Cena and Orton have had a long-standing rivalry that has spanned over a decade. A final match between these two longtime rivals would be a fitting end to their feud.
    3. AJ Styles – Cena and Styles have had some incredible matches in the past, showcasing their in-ring chemistry. A final showdown between these two would be a wrestling fan’s dream come true.
    4. Brock Lesnar – Cena and Lesnar have faced off multiple times in the past, with each match being hard-hitting and intense. A final battle between these two powerhouses would be a brutal and unforgettable encounter.
    5. Seth Rollins – Cena and Rollins have had some great matches in the past, and a final showdown between these two would be a showcase of their skills and athleticism. Their contrasting styles would make for an exciting and dynamic match-up.

    Tags:

    1. WWE rivalries
    2. John Cena rivals
    3. WWE dream matches
    4. Wrestling rivalries
    5. John Cena dream opponents

    #WWE #Rivals #John #Cena #Face #Time

  • Cody Rhodes Is Hesitant To Want To Face John Cena During Retirement Tour


    Several people are wanting to face John Cena during his retirement tour this year but Cody Rhodes is hesitant to count himself among them. Rhodes is the current WWE Champion, while Cena is going to be in the Men’s Royal Rumble at tonight’s WWE PLE.

    In an interview with TheOneMona (via Fightful), Rhodes explained: “One thing that’s been on my mind, I think when he announced he was retiring, is a lot of guys jumped to the line of, I want to wrestle John. A lot of guys jumped to the, ‘I want to do something with John.’ I’m probably the one who didn’t hold his hand up and that’s simply because John is everything to me and and there’s been so many guys I’m a product of who i took a little something from. The most that I’ve taken from anybody ever would be from John, and that was from driving those few years of them seeing how he did his interactions with fans, how he would do main events, to see how he did the quarterback , the leader all those things. So when i hear this is it, It’s still not fully for me. I don’t love this is it and I know it is. I know he means it when he says it. But I want to watch like a fan. I almost dread the idea of what that would look like. Because when you’re up against John now, you’re tasked to beat John Cena in his final run and that’s why I’m not raising my hand to be in that spot.





    Cody Rhodes Is Hesitant To Want To Face John Cena During Retirement Tour

    In a recent interview, Cody Rhodes opened up about the idea of facing John Cena during his retirement tour. While many fans would love to see the two wrestling icons go head-to-head one last time, Rhodes expressed some hesitation.

    “I have the utmost respect for John Cena and everything he has accomplished in his career,” Rhodes said. “But facing him in the ring during my retirement tour is a daunting task. Cena is a true legend and I want to make sure that I am at my absolute best if I were to step into the ring with him.”

    Rhodes went on to explain that he wants to make sure that his final matches are memorable and impactful, and facing Cena would be a huge opportunity to do just that. However, he also wants to ensure that he can give his all in the ring and put on a performance that both he and the fans can be proud of.

    While the idea of Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena may be a dream match for many fans, it seems that Rhodes is taking a thoughtful approach to the possibility. Only time will tell if we will see these two superstars collide in the ring once again.

    Tags:

    • Cody Rhodes retirement tour
    • John Cena retirement match
    • Cody Rhodes vs John Cena
    • WWE retirement matches
    • Cody Rhodes future plans
    • John Cena dream matches
    • Wrestling retirement tours
    • Cody Rhodes vs John Cena dream match
    • Wrestlers facing retirement
    • Cody Rhodes career highlights

    #Cody #Rhodes #Hesitant #Face #John #Cena #Retirement #Tour

  • Proactive Planning: How Business Continuity Can Help Your Company Thrive in the Face of Adversity

    Proactive Planning: How Business Continuity Can Help Your Company Thrive in the Face of Adversity


    In today’s fast-paced and unpredictable business environment, it is more important than ever for companies to have a solid plan in place to ensure their survival in the face of adversity. Proactive planning, particularly in the form of business continuity planning, can help companies thrive even when faced with unexpected challenges.

    Business continuity planning is the process of creating a strategy to ensure that essential business functions can continue in the event of a disruption. This disruption could be anything from a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or earthquake, to a cyber attack or a pandemic. By proactively planning for these scenarios, companies can minimize downtime, protect their assets, and maintain their reputation.

    One of the key benefits of business continuity planning is that it allows companies to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities before they occur. By conducting a thorough risk assessment, companies can pinpoint areas of weakness in their operations and take steps to mitigate these risks. This proactive approach can help companies avoid costly disruptions and maintain their competitive edge in the market.

    Another advantage of business continuity planning is that it helps companies build resilience in the face of adversity. By developing a comprehensive plan that outlines how the company will respond to various scenarios, companies can ensure that they are prepared to handle any situation that comes their way. This resilience can give companies a competitive advantage, as they are better equipped to weather storms and emerge stronger on the other side.

    Furthermore, business continuity planning can help companies protect their most valuable assets, including their data, equipment, and employees. By implementing measures such as data backups, redundant systems, and emergency communication protocols, companies can safeguard their critical resources and ensure that they can continue to operate even in the face of a crisis.

    In conclusion, proactive planning, particularly in the form of business continuity planning, is essential for companies looking to thrive in the face of adversity. By identifying risks, building resilience, and protecting their assets, companies can ensure that they are prepared to handle any challenge that comes their way. Ultimately, investing in business continuity planning is an investment in the long-term success and sustainability of your company.

  • Cougars face a challenge with tournament implications


    BYU basketball is on a hot streak. Doesn’t that feel nice to read? Finally, after a shaky opening to the season, the Cougars led by rookie Head Coach Kevin Young are beginning to click, and that point was exemplified flawlessly as they took down a hungry and talented Baylor squad on Tuesday night.

    The overtime thriller was adrenaline-pumping for several reasons, not the least of which was Kanon Catchings’ career-high 23-point performance that saw the freshman wing sink every shot attempt that left his fingertips. Kanon really put on a full display of his talents in front of his aunt, Tamika, NBA scouts, and even… Conor McGregor?

    Conor McGregor, Kalani Sitake

    Conor is a certified Coug. | Chris Gardner/GettyImages

    Yeah, that wasn’t a typo. Conor McGregor is an official Cougar fan. I bet you didn’t have that on your preseason predictions list.

    But now the challenge continues to incline for this BYU basketball bunch as they take their squad to Orlando in a battle with the UCF Knights. The Cougars won in both of their meetings with Central Florida last season, but that doesn’t guarantee a win this year.

    There are no easy wins in the Big 12 Conference.

    Unless you’re Houston, I guess.

    That traumatic memory aside, let’s stop dwelling on the past and focus on the task at hand: taking down UCF on the road and advancing up the Big 12 standings.

    The Cougars are favored to win this matchup after 3 straight victories, but road struggles have defined the early season for these Cougars, losing to both TCU and Utah in an unfamiliar environment. Claiming a win in this meeting with 13-7 UCF would solidify BYU’s status in the conference, and keep the positive vibes flowing.

    You’d be a fool to skip out on this one.

    Egor Demin, VJ Edgecombe

    Egor Demin challenges fellow NBA draft prospect, VJ Edgecombe. | Chris Gardner/GettyImages

    How to Watch BYU vs UCF Basketball

    Date: Saturday, February 1, 2024
    Time: 2:00 PM MT
    Location: Addition Financial Arena, Orlando, FL
    Channel: ESPN+
    Odds: Unavailable

    More BYU Cougars News:



    The Cougars basketball team is facing a tough challenge with tournament implications on the line. With only a few games left in the regular season, every win is crucial for their chances of making it to the postseason.

    The team has been playing well recently, but they know that they will need to step up their game even more in order to secure a spot in the tournament. They have been working hard in practice, focusing on their defensive strategies and offensive execution.

    Their next game is against a tough opponent who is also fighting for a spot in the tournament. The pressure is on for the Cougars to come out strong and play with intensity from the opening tip-off.

    The players know that they have the talent and skills to compete at a high level, but they will need to bring their A-game in order to come out on top. The coaching staff has been emphasizing the importance of staying focused and playing as a cohesive unit.

    As the game approaches, the Cougars are feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. They know that this game could make or break their season, and they are determined to give it their all on the court.

    Stay tuned to see if the Cougars can rise to the challenge and secure a crucial win with tournament implications on the line. Go Cougars! #CougarsBasketball #TournamentBound

    Tags:

    1. Cougars basketball tournament
    2. College basketball playoffs
    3. Cougar sports news
    4. NCAA basketball tournament
    5. March Madness implications
    6. Cougar team challenges
    7. Basketball tournament updates
    8. Cougar athletics updates
    9. Tournament seedings
    10. Cougar playoff hopes

    #Cougars #face #challenge #tournament #implications

  • Sepp Straka, contenders set to face rainy, gusty weather conditions at Pebble Beach


    Sepp Straka escaped much of the nasty weather on Friday at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

    He likely won’t be so lucky on Saturday.

    Straka fired a second straight 7-under 65, this time at Pebble Beach Golf Links, to take a three-shot lead. Straka benefitted from about 14 holes in little to no wind, while other challengers, including Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler, teed off later and spent more time in the tougher conditions.

    Now, though, McIlroy and Scheffler are on the better end of the draw. While tournament officials will send the field off split tees and in threesomes, Straka will still tee off at 1:35 p.m. local time, nearly two and a half hours after the first group.

    According to the PGA Tour’s official weather bulletin, winds are expected to ramp up around noon, with 14-20 mph sustained and 28 mph gusts forecasted through at least 2 p.m. The 4 p.m. forecast calls for 10-16 mph sustained and 25 mph gusts. There is a 60% chance of rain at noon and 2 p.m., while temperatures are not expected to get into the 60s.

    “Just kind of accepting bad shots, that’s where the patience comes in,” said Straka, who also is battling the lingering effects of the flu. “You’re going to get the wind wrong every now and then if it gusts up, and these greens are tiny, so small mistakes can have a big outcome.”

    Some players in early groups have already started to make moves, too, including Scheffler, who was 3 under through five holes and 10 under overall, four back of Straka, before Straka teed off.





    As the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am gets underway, players like Sepp Straka and other contenders are gearing up to face some challenging weather conditions. The forecast calls for rainy and gusty weather throughout the tournament, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already tough course.

    Sepp Straka, coming off a strong performance at the Waste Management Phoenix Open, will need to rely on his skill and mental toughness to navigate the wet and windy conditions at Pebble Beach. With his accurate ball-striking and solid putting, Straka has the game to contend no matter what the weather throws at him.

    Other top contenders, including past champions and major winners, will also be looking to embrace the adverse conditions and use them to their advantage. The unpredictable nature of the weather at Pebble Beach can lead to exciting and unexpected outcomes, making for an exciting tournament for fans to watch.

    As players like Sepp Straka and others prepare to battle the elements, they will need to stay focused, patient, and adaptable in order to come out on top. The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am promises to be a true test of skill and resilience, with the weather adding an extra element of drama to an already prestigious event. Stay tuned to see how the players handle the rainy, gusty conditions and who will emerge victorious in the end.

    Tags:

    Sepp Straka, Pebble Beach, PGA Tour, golf, weather conditions, rain, wind, contenders, tournament, Sepp Straka golf, Pebble Beach weather, Sepp Straka PGA Tour, golf tournament, Sepp Straka contenders, weather forecast, golf weather conditions, Pebble Beach tournament.

    #Sepp #Straka #contenders #set #face #rainy #gusty #weather #conditions #Pebble #Beach

  • How to Ensure Business Continuity in the Face of Disruption

    How to Ensure Business Continuity in the Face of Disruption


    In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business environment, disruptions can occur at any time. Whether it’s a natural disaster, a cyber attack, or a global pandemic, businesses need to be prepared to ensure continuity in the face of disruption. Here are some key strategies to help businesses stay operational during times of crisis.

    1. Develop a comprehensive business continuity plan: The first step in ensuring business continuity is to develop a thorough business continuity plan. This plan should outline the steps that need to be taken in the event of a disruption, including communication protocols, alternate work locations, and backup systems. It should also identify key stakeholders and assign roles and responsibilities in the event of a crisis.

    2. Conduct a risk assessment: Businesses should conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential threats to their operations. This could include natural disasters, cyber attacks, supply chain disruptions, or any other potential risks. By understanding these risks, businesses can develop strategies to mitigate them and ensure continuity in the face of disruption.

    3. Implement robust cybersecurity measures: With the increasing threat of cyber attacks, businesses need to implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect their data and systems. This could include regular security audits, employee training on cybersecurity best practices, and the use of encryption and other security technologies to safeguard sensitive information.

    4. Establish backup systems and redundancies: To ensure business continuity, businesses should establish backup systems and redundancies for critical operations. This could include backup power sources, redundant IT systems, and duplicate data storage. By having these systems in place, businesses can minimize downtime and continue operations in the event of a disruption.

    5. Maintain open communication channels: During times of crisis, communication is key. Businesses should establish open communication channels with employees, customers, suppliers, and other key stakeholders to keep them informed of any developments and changes to operations. This could include setting up a crisis communication team, creating a communication plan, and using multiple channels to reach stakeholders.

    6. Test the business continuity plan regularly: Once a business continuity plan is in place, it’s important to test it regularly to ensure that it is effective and up-to-date. This could include conducting tabletop exercises, simulating different scenarios, and evaluating the response of key stakeholders. By testing the plan regularly, businesses can identify any gaps or weaknesses and make necessary adjustments to improve their readiness for a disruption.

    In conclusion, ensuring business continuity in the face of disruption requires careful planning, risk assessment, robust cybersecurity measures, backup systems, open communication channels, and regular testing of the business continuity plan. By implementing these strategies, businesses can minimize the impact of disruptions and continue operations smoothly during times of crisis.

  • FULL DRAW | PSG draw Brest, Monaco to face Benfica in Champions League


    Paris Saint-Germain, Stade Brestois, and AS Monaco have discovered their opponents for the play-off round of the UEFA Champions League. 

    PSG, having finished the league phase with back-to-back wins, were guaranteed to face a Ligue 1 rival. It was between Monaco and Brest, who both concluded their league phase with defeats to Inter Milan and Real Madrid respectively. Neither side were keen to face Les Parisiens with Brest’s Pierre Lees-Melou and Monaco’s Breel Embolo publically stating as much. 

    The draw took place on Friday and PSG have drawn Les Ty-Zéfs. Monaco will face Benfica. The two sides have already faced each other this season in the Champions League. Benfica won at the Stade Louis II (3-2) in November in a match dominated by controversial refereeing decisions. 

    The first legs will be played on 11th/12th February with the return legs being played one week later. 

    Full Champions League play-off draw
    • Club Brugge v Atalanta 
    • Manchester City v Real Madrid
    • Juventus v PSV
    • Brest v PSG
    • Monaco v Benfica 
    • Feyenoord v AC Milan
    • Celtic v Bayern Munich
    • Sporting v Borussia Dortmund 

    GFFN | Luke Entwistle

     



    In an exciting Champions League draw, PSG has been paired with Brest while Monaco will take on Benfica in the upcoming fixtures. The stage is set for some thrilling matches as these top teams battle it out for a spot in the next round. Stay tuned for all the action and drama as the competition heats up in the world’s premier club tournament. #ChampionsLeague #PSG #Monaco #Brest #Benfica #FootballFans

    Tags:

    Champions League draw, PSG vs Brest, Monaco vs Benfica, soccer news, European football, UEFA Champions League, match analysis, sports updates

    #FULL #DRAW #PSG #draw #Brest #Monaco #face #Benfica #Champions #League

  • Trump’s Cabinet nominees face sharpest bipartisan grilling to date and other takeaways from Thursday’s confirmation hearings



    Washington
    CNN
     — 

    Three of President Donald Trump’s most controversial nominees faced sharp questions in the Senate during hearings Thursday from Democrats as well as several Republican senators in what amounted to the most direct skepticism from GOP senators over Trump’s nominees to date.

    Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s pick to be Health and Human Services secretary, was pressed on his views on vaccines by GOP Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, who said he had “reservations” about Kennedy’s past positions on vaccine safety.

    And Tulsi Gabbard, who has been tapped to be the director of national intelligence, faced questions from several Republicans about her views on Russian aggression, US government surveillance and NSA leaker Edward Snowden.

    Asked multiple times by senators in both parties whether Snowden was a “traitor,” Gabbard said repeatedly that he broke the law – but she would not directly say whether he was a traitor.

    Kash Patel, Trump’s nominee to be FBI director, had numerous heated exchanges with Democrats during his hearing Thursday over his past comments about going after Trump’s perceived “deep state” enemies. But Patel found a largely friendly audience among Republicans on the Judiciary Committee, signaling his confirmation is on firmer ground.

    If all Democrats oppose Trump’s nominees, they can only afford to lose three GOP senators on the floor to win confirmation. But Gabbard’s nomination could be in danger of not making it that far – as it would only take one Republican to block her nomination in the Senate Intelligence Committee if all Democrats on the panel oppose her.

    Trump’s allies mounted a significant pressure campaign against on-the-fence Republicans to get Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s confirmation over the finish line, and similar campaigns have been promised toward GOP senators if they oppose any more Trump nominees, such as Gabbard or Kennedy.

    Here are takeaways from a consequential day of Senate confirmation hearings:

    As a Democrat in Congress in 2020, Gabbard introduced legislation supporting Snowden, who leaked a massive trove of classified NSA secrets during the Obama administration. It’s a position that put her directly at odds with senators on the Intelligence Committee from both parties.

    Gabbard was pressed by both Republicans and Democrats about Snowden on Thursday, asked repeatedly whether she believed he was a traitor and whether he betrayed his oath.

    Repeatedly, Gabbard defaulted to an answer that Snowden had “broken the law,” but she declined to say whether his actions amounted to treason.

    Tulsi Gabbard testifies during her confirmation hearing before the Senate Intelligence Committee in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on January 30, 2025 in Washington, DC.

    Sen. James Lankford, an Oklahoma Republican, asked Gabbard the question twice after the DNI nominee didn’t respond directly the first time.

    “Was he a traitor at the time when he took America’s secrets, released them in public and then ran to China and became a Russian citizen?” Lankford eventually asked, in a lengthy line of questioning that described the feelings of members of the intelligence community.

    “I’m focused on the future and how we can prevent something like this from happening again,” Gabbard said.

    Sen. Michael Bennet, a Colorado Democrat, took up Lankford’s line of questioning and repeatedly pressed Gabbard for a yes-or-no answer.

    “Is Edward Snowden a traitor to the United States of America?” Bennet asked.

    “Senator, as someone who has served …” she began.

    Bennet, who appeared angry, interrupted and demanded a yes-or-no answer again.

    “I understand how critical our national security is …” Gabbard responded, once again refusing to answer.

    That wasn’t the only instance where Republicans questioned Gabbard’s views during Thursday’s public hearing. Sen. Jim Moran, a Kansas Republican, told Gabbard he wanted to make certain “that in no way does Russia get a pass in either your mind or your heart or in any policy recommendation you would make or not make.”

    “Senator, I’m offended by the question,” Gabbard responded, saying that “no country, group or individual will get a pass” in her providing a full intelligence picture to the president.

    Moran responded that it was the answer he was looking for, but the exchange underscored the GOP unease about her leading the intelligence community.

    Lankford told reporters later Thursday that he was “kind of surprised” by Gabbard’s response about Snowden and warned that it raised “a lot of questions.”

    “I thought that was going to be an easy softball question, actually,” he said.

    Pressed on if that is problematic for her confirmation, Lankford replied, “I think there were a lot of questions after it, yes.”

    Republican Sen. Todd Young, who also sits on the committee and had pressed Gabbard on Snowden, did not say whether he would back Gabbard’s confirmation. Instead, he told reporters, “I think I’ve got, for now at least, all the information I need.”

    Kennedy appeared Thursday for his second day of confirmation hearings before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, following Wednesday’s hearing in the Senate Finance Committee.

    Cassidy, the Louisiana Republican who chairs the HELP committee, began Thursday’s hearing addressing his concerns about Kennedy’s vaccine skepticism.

    “It’s no secret, I have some reservations about your past positions on vaccines and a couple other issues,” Cassidy said. “Your past of undermining confidence in vaccines with unfounded or misleading arguments concerns me. Can I trust that that is now in the past? Can data and information change your opinion or will you only look for data supporting a predetermined conclusion?”

    The stark comments suggest that Cassidy, a Republican who practiced medicine for 30 years, could be the senator who stalls Kennedy’s nomination to lead HHS.

    Cassidy acknowledged that Kennedy is now trying to downplay his anti-vaccine rhetoric despite an extensive, recorded history of his linking vaccines to autism in children, but said that change doesn’t go far enough.

    Kennedy testifies during his confirmation hearing on Thursday.

    During his line of questioning, Cassidy asked Kennedy if he will reassure mothers unequivocally that the measles and hepatitis B vaccines do not cause autism.

    “If the data is there,” Kennedy responded.

    That answer did not satisfy Cassidy: “I know the data is there.”

    Thursday’s hearing also included, like Kennedy’s first hearing, several notable exchanges between Kennedy and Democrats on the committee.

    In a personal and impassioned statement, Sen. Maggie Hassan, a New Hampshire Democrat, revealed her own struggle with her son’s health and the fears she had about Kennedy’s continuing questioning of what has been settled science on vaccines.

    Hassan told the committee that her son, who is 36 years old, has cerebral palsy and that she has agonized over what caused his condition for decades at times relitigating in her mind every action she took in her own pregnancy. She pleaded with Kennedy to see the harm he does when he churns up questions about settled science for parents grappling with their own children’s conditions.

    “Please do not suggest that anybody in this body of either political party doesn’t want to know what the cause of autism is. Do you know how many friends I have with children who have autism?” Hassan continued. “The problem with this witness’s response on the autism cause and the relationship to vaccines is because he is re-litigating and churning settled science so we cannot go forward and find out what the cause of autism is and treat these kids and help these families.”

    During Patel’s hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee, Democrats pushed the FBI director nominee on a litany of his past public comments, including his vows to prosecute the “deep state,” his skepticism of the January 6 attack on the US Capitol and his friendly ties to the QAnon conspiracy community.

    Patel gave little ground over his previous remarks, frequently claiming he was being quoted in part or out of context.

    Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, referenced a list in Patel’s 2023 book, “Government Gangsters,” which names 60 people that Patel says are “corrupt actors” who are part of the “deep state.”

    “It has been referred to as an enemies list,” Klobuchar said. “You called them ‘deep state.’”

    “It’s not an enemies list. That is a total mischaracterization,” Patel responded, adding that it was a “glossary” in a book.

    Kash Patel testifies before a Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on January 30, 2025.

    Despite Patel’s pushback on Thursday, he and Trump have repeatedly talked about the need to seek retribution against current and former officials that were involved in various investigations into Trump. And Trump has already taken steps to fire, marginalize and punish some former and current officials who fall into this category.

    Klobuchar later pressed Patel about his comments on a podcast last fall to turn the FBI headquarters into a “museum of the deep state.”

    “I deserve an answer to that question. He is asking to be head of the FBI, and he said that their headquarters should be shut down,” Klobuchar said as her time to question Patel expired.

    “If the best attacks on me are going to be false accusations and grotesque mischaracterizations, the only thing this body is doing is defeating the credibility of the men and women at the FBI,” Patel responded. “And any accusations leveled against me that I would somehow put political bias before the Constitution are grotesquely unfair.”

    “Mr. chairman, I’m quoting his own words from September of 2024. It is his own words,” Klobuchar shot back. “It is not some conspiracy. It is what Mr. Patel actually said.”

    Asked about his past praise of the QAnon movement, Patel testified Thursday that he believes it is a “baseless” conspiracy theory.

    And Patel said Thursday that he opposed Trump’s commutations that freed from prison hundreds of convicted January 6 rioters who attacked police officers.

    “I do not agree with the commutation of any sentence of any individual who committed violence against law enforcement,” Patel said.

    Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley asked Patel to explain his position on January 6 and respond to critics who said he was anti-law enforcement.

    “I have always respected law enforcement,” Patel replied. “As for January 6, I have repeatedly, often, publicly and privately said there can never be a tolerance for violence against law enforcement.”

    Hegseth was confirmed last week by the narrowest of margins, a 50-50 tie vote broken by Vice President JD Vance because three Republicans – Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Mitch McConnell of Kentucky – joined Democrats to oppose him.

    That’s the same math Trump’s trio of nominees who testified Thursday likely face, with no Democrats so far directly signaling they will back Gabbard, Kennedy or Patel.

    While Patel appears on solid ground to win confirmation, Gabbard and Kennedy could face a more difficult path.

    Collins could play a key role if she opposes Gabbard’s nomination, as she sits on the Senate Intelligence Committee, where Republicans have a 9-8 majority, meaning Gabbard’s nomination could fail if Collins joins all Democrats in voting against Gabbard.

    Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated Wednesday to CNN that he didn’t think he could set up a confirmation vote for Gabbard if the committee votes down the nomination.

    After she questioned Gabbard, Collins said it was “too early to tell” whether Gabbard would receive enough committee votes to make it to the full Senate. Asked by CNN’s Manu Raju whether the jury was still out on her support for Gabbard, Collins said, “That’s correct.”

    “I need to review the entire hearing,” she said. “I want to make a careful decision.”

    In his closing statement, Cassidy laid out his concerns in frank terms, arguing he has to decide if he believes Kennedy can put decades of vaccine skepticism aside and use his microphone to instill faith in public health and vaccines as the top leader on the issue in the country.

    “With that influence comes a great responsibility. Now my responsibility is to learn and try to determine if you can be trusted to support the best public health,” Cassidy said. “That is why I have been struggling with your nomination.”

    Both Collins and Murkowski stressed the need for vaccine availability and dissemination when they questioned Kennedy on Thursday. After the hearing, Murkowski said she’s yet not yet ready to decide if she can back Kennedy, and she will take her time to evaluate his responses like she always does.

    “This is an important nominee, so it deserves full consideration,” Murkowski said.

    McConnell, the former GOP Senate leader, is seen as a potential swing vote for both Gabbard and Kennedy. He has not said how he will vote on either nominee, but his foreign policy views are considerably more hawkish than Gabbard’s, and his history with vaccines is personal as a polio survivor.

    “The polio vaccine has saved millions of lives and held out the promise of eradicating a terrible disease. Efforts to undermine public confidence in proven cures are not just uninformed – they’re dangerous,” McConnell said in a December statement, which did not name Kennedy. “Anyone seeking the Senate’s consent to serve in the incoming administration would do well to steer clear of even the appearance of association with such efforts.”

    This story and headline have been updated with additional developments.

    CNN’s Devan Cole, Zachary Cohen, Michael Conte, Aileen Graef, Tami Luhby, Hannah Rabinowitz, Manu Raju and Sam Simpson contributed to this report.



    On Thursday, Trump’s Cabinet nominees faced some of the sharpest bipartisan grilling to date during their confirmation hearings. Here are some key takeaways from the intense questioning:

    1. Many nominees faced tough questions from both Democratic and Republican senators, showing a rare display of bipartisan skepticism towards the nominees. This indicates that there are serious concerns about the qualifications and potential conflicts of interest of some of Trump’s picks for key government positions.

    2. Several nominees, including Secretary of State nominee Rex Tillerson and Education Secretary nominee Betsy DeVos, faced scrutiny over their ties to Russia and potential conflicts of interest. Tillerson, in particular, faced tough questioning about his close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his ties to the oil industry.

    3. Some nominees, such as Attorney General nominee Jeff Sessions and Health and Human Services Secretary nominee Tom Price, faced criticism for their past statements and positions on important issues such as civil rights and healthcare. Sessions, in particular, faced questions about his record on voting rights and immigration.

    4. Despite the tough questioning, most of the nominees stuck to their prepared remarks and defended their qualifications for the positions they have been nominated for. However, it remains to be seen whether their answers will satisfy the concerns of both Democrats and Republicans.

    Overall, Thursday’s confirmation hearings highlighted the intense scrutiny that Trump’s Cabinet nominees are facing and the bipartisan concerns about their qualifications and potential conflicts of interest. It remains to be seen how these concerns will impact the confirmation process moving forward.

    Tags:

    1. Trump’s Cabinet nominees
    2. bipartisan grilling
    3. confirmation hearings
    4. Trump administration
    5. political news
    6. government officials
    7. Senate hearings
    8. US politics
    9. Trump’s cabinet picks
    10. political analysis

    #Trumps #Cabinet #nominees #face #sharpest #bipartisan #grilling #date #takeaways #Thursdays #confirmation #hearings

  • ‘Happy Face’ Trailer Released; March Debut Date On Paramount+


    Paramount+ has announced Thursday, March 20 as the launch date for the upcoming drama Happy Face. Inspired by the iHeart Media podcast and Melissa Jasperson-Moore book, Shattered Silence, from executive producers Robert and Michelle King (The Good Wife, The Good Fight), the series tells the story of a woman who discovers her father is a serial killer at age 15.

    In her book, Melissa shares the true story of her discovery that her father, whom she loved dearly, was the prolific serial killer known as “Happy Face.” As an adult, Melissa changed her name, guarded her secret, and cut off all ties to her father, who is currently serving life in prison.

    The official logline: Happy Face follows Melissa (Annaleigh Ashford) and her incarcerated father, known as the “Happy Face Killer” (Dennis Quaid). After decades of no contact, he finally finds a way to force himself back into his daughter’s life. In a race against the clock, Melissa must find out if an innocent man is going to be put to death for a crime her father committed. Throughout, she discovers the impact her father had on his victims’ families and must face a reckoning of her own identity.

    The series will be written and executive produced by showrunner Jennifer Cacicio (Your Honor). The cast include Annaleigh Ashford, Dennis Quaid, James Wolk, Tamera Tomakili, Khiyla Aynne and Benjamin Mackey.

    The eight-episode season of Happy Face will premiere with two episodes, exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.S. and international markets where the service is available. Following the premiere, new episodes will drop weekly on Thursdays, with the season finale on May 1.

    Here is the trailer:

    Happy Face is produced by CBS Studios in association with King Size Productions, iHeartPodcasts and Semi-Formal Productions. Jennifer Cacicio (Your Honor, Shooter) serves as showrunner for the series and executive producer alongside Robert and Michelle King, Liz Glotzer, Melissa G. Moore, Conal Byrne, Will Pearson, Michael Showalter and Jordana Mollick.



    Exciting news for fans of the hit comedy series “Happy Face”! The official trailer for the upcoming season has just been released, giving us a sneak peek at what’s to come. The new season will debut on Paramount+ in March, so mark your calendars and get ready for some hilarious new adventures with your favorite characters. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the premiere date! #HappyFace #ParamountPlus #Comedy #TrailerRelease

    Tags:

    happy face trailer, march debut date, paramount+, new release, movie trailer, film premiere, upcoming release, streaming service, entertainment news, TV show premiere, exclusive sneak peek

    #Happy #Face #Trailer #Released #March #Debut #Date #Paramount

  • See Dennis Quaid as a Murderous Serial Killer in First ‘Happy Face’ Trailer


    The first trailer for Happy Face is here!

    A preview at the new Paramount+ show documenting a serial killer’s daughter, played by Annaleigh Ashford, fighting for justice has been released. Based on the real-life story of murderer Keith Jesperson and his daughter Melissa Reed, Happy Face stars Dennis Quaid as the dangerous Happy Face Killer.

    “What do you know about the Happy Face Killer?” a talk show host named Dr. Greg (David Harewood) asks Reed at the start of the trailer. “Perhaps we should just explain why you’re here.”

    After flashbacks of her childhood appear on the screen, she reveals her secret.

    “Because he’s my father,” she tells the audience.

    Kate Maree as Melissa and Dennis Quaid as Keith Jesperson.

    Ed Araquel/Paramount+


    A series of clips of Reed investigating cases she believes are linked to her estranged father then play while she contemplates reconciling with him for the sake of a man being put in jail for crimes Jesperson actually committed.

    “Every violent act is a rock dropped in water,” she says. “If you stay silent, the ripples of trauma just keep pulling everyone they touch underneath.”

    It ends with her decision: a visit to the prison where her father is being held.

    “It’s so good to see you, Missy,” he whispers as the two come face-to-face.

    Jesperson’s killings have been a topic of public interest since 2010 when he was convicted and given three life sentences for the strangulation deaths of eight women in the 1990’s (he once claimed to have as many as 160 victims). His last victim was only recently discovered in 2023, 29 years after her murder.

    Jesperson was only dubbed the “Happy Face Killer” after the murders when he allegedly began drawing smiley faces on letters to police and the media during their investigation.

    Dennis Quaid as Keith Jesperson and Annaleigh Ashford as Melissa Reed.

    Victoria Will/Paramount+


    His daughter, who goes by Melissa Moore, has been outspoken about the impact her father’s crimes had on her life, even writing a book about it in 2009, called Shattered Silence. She later opened up about it in an interview with 20/20 in 2015.

    “We are secondary crime victims. We carry that shame and we want to remove that,” Moore said at the time” “I feel in a sense I am related to my father, but I didn’t cause the pain. But knowing that my father caused some pain causes me pain.”

    She also admitted that there were signs everyone in Jesperson’s life overlooked, recalling one time during her childhood that he tortured and killed kittens.

    “I think I caught a glimpse of the sociopath, the part of where felt in control over me and that he enjoyed it. I got the sense that there was another side to him,” she explained in a 2010 interview with the outlet.

    She has gone on to work with others in the same position as her and help people who lost loved ones in unsolved murders.

    Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

    Happy Face will be available to stream on March 20 on Paramount+.



    Attention thriller fans! The first trailer for the upcoming film “Happy Face” has just been released, giving us a chilling glimpse into the twisted mind of Dennis Quaid’s character, a murderous serial killer.

    In the trailer, Quaid is seen portraying a seemingly ordinary man with a dark secret – he is a cold-blooded killer who leaves a trail of bodies in his wake. As he goes about his seemingly normal life, we see glimpses of his sinister intentions and the lengths he will go to in order to satisfy his deadly urges.

    The tension builds as we are taken on a suspenseful journey through Quaid’s twisted psyche, leaving us on the edge of our seats wondering who will be his next victim.

    With Quaid’s intense portrayal and the gripping storyline, “Happy Face” promises to be a thrilling and unforgettable cinematic experience. Don’t miss out on this chilling tale of a murderous serial killer – watch the trailer now and prepare to be captivated by Dennis Quaid’s chilling performance.

    Tags:

    Dennis Quaid, Happy Face, trailer, serial killer, murder, thriller, new movie, film, actor, suspense, crime drama, Hollywood, upcoming release, chilling performance, must watch

    #Dennis #Quaid #Murderous #Serial #Killer #Happy #Face #Trailer

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