Ron Nehring, a Republican political adviser, has criticized “Russian government-backed” initiatives for California and Texas to secede from the United States and become independent countries.
Newsweek contacted Nehring for comment via a form on his website, and CalExit and the Texas Nationalist Movement, the main secessionist movements in their states—via email.
Why It Matters
The push for states such as California and Texas to secede from the U.S. has gained traction in recent years, fueled in part by Russian-backed efforts to destabilize American politics.
As the states with the largest gross domestic products, their secession would cause significant disruption to the U.S. economy. While a state seceding is both highly improbable and unconstitutional, the growing debate could fuel national divisions.
The California state flag on a house in Berkeley on November 12, 2016. The California state flag on a house in Berkeley on November 12, 2016. Barbara Munker/AP Photo
What To Know
On Thursday, California Secretary of State Shirley Weber approved a campaign to gather signatures petitioning for a vote on whether the state should leave the U.S.
In a Sunday op-ed for Flash Report, a blog covering California political news, Nehring said the Kremlin was likely cheering on the latest push to get a secession referendum included on the Golden State’s 2028 ballot.
Nehring, who served as chair of the California Republican Party from 2007 to 2011 and was a spokesperson for Texas Senator Ted Cruz‘s 2016 presidential campaign, said the idea of California seceding was again gaining traction.
“Yes, the most delusional, impractical, and Kremlin-cheered pipe dream of our time has returned, despite its repeated failures and universal ridicule,” he wrote, adding, “While its proponents insist the movement is homegrown, the idea has been gleefully boosted by Russian government-backed media and trolls looking to destabilize our country.”
The Republican continued: “Putin and his propaganda machine aren’t aiming for an actual breakup of the U.S. (they know that’s a fantasy). Instead, they want to make secession an acceptable topic, a plausible option to enough people that it festers and spreads.”
According to researchers at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a think tank in Washington, D.C., these secessionist movements have gained support from Russian accounts on social media. Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s former president and prime minister, has also joked about supporting the movement.
Secessionist leaders have previously rejected the idea that Russian propaganda has driven support for their movements or that they are linked to the Russian government.
What People Are Saying
In an emailed response to Newsweek, Nehring said: “While the current ‘leader’ of CalExit may publicly disavow connections to Russia, the idea itself has been promoted, amplified, and encouraged by Russian government-linked entities, which sought to use it as a destabilization tool. That has been extensively documented for over eight years by media outlets, intelligence agencies, and cybersecurity firms like Graphika.
“Disavowals do not erase the extensive evidence of Russian involvement in advancing this issue for their own anti-American strategic benefit.”
Marcus Evans, who is running the campaign for an independence vote in California, told CBS News: “We believe that now is the best time to Calexit—NOW we are better situated to make Calexit happen than in 2016.”
Daniel Miller, who leads the Texas Nationalist Movement, told Newsweek: “Ron Nehring’s claim that TEXIT is ‘Kremlin-cheered’ is both ridiculous and revealing.
“TEXIT is about Texans reclaiming their right to self-governance, a right Nehring seems incapable of understanding. Instead of addressing the legitimate concerns behind the movement, he throws out tired conspiracy theories, hoping to stay relevant in a conversation that’s way out of his depth.”
What Happens Next
If the petition in California receives the necessary 546,651 signatures by July 22, 2025, it will put this question on the November 2028 ballot: “Should California leave the United States and become a free and independent country?”
It would also require California to create a commission to study the state’s viability as an independent country.
However, even if the ballot measure passed, it would not trigger any legal changes to California’s status and would simply be seen as a “vote of no confidence in the United States of America.”
The U.S. Constitution does not allow for state secession, an issue a Supreme Court ruling settled in 1869 following the Civil War.
Update 1/28/25, 12:12 p.m. ET: This article has updated with a comment Daniel Miller.
Correction 1/28/25, 7:11 a.m. ET: This article has been updated to remove reference to Yes California, which no longer backs secession.
In a recent statement, Republican leaders have expressed concerns over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s alleged involvement in fueling independence plans in California and Texas.
According to sources, Putin has been quietly supporting and encouraging separatist movements in both states, with the ultimate goal of destabilizing the United States and weakening its global influence.
Republican lawmakers have called for immediate action to counter Putin’s influence and protect the integrity of the nation. They have urged the federal government to investigate and take appropriate measures to prevent any further interference from foreign powers in American affairs.
The situation is still developing, but one thing is clear: Putin’s meddling in American politics is a serious threat that must be addressed swiftly and decisively. The Republican party remains committed to defending the unity and sovereignty of the United States against any outside interference.
Man Utd could ‘ruin’ the transfer plans of Barcelona and Real Madrid by triggering a clause in one player’s contract, according to reports.
The Red Devils are having a terrible season in the Premier League with their fortunate 1-0 win over Fulham on Sunday moving them up one place to 12th in the table.
Man Utd have only won eight of their 23 Premier League matches this term and Ruben Amorim has been feeling the pressure in recent weeks.
The Man Utd boss has also taken a strict stance on players who don’t give their all in training with Amorim making an example of Marcus Rashford by omitting him from all but one squad since their Europa League clash against Viktoria Plzen in mid-December.
And Amorim admitted on Sunday that he would rather play his goalkeeping coach over Rashford if he continues to give less than 100 per cent in training sessions.
The new Man Utd head coach is looking to bring in players who can thrive in his 3-4-3 system and feel comfortable with his playing style and philosophy.
And reports in Spain claim that Amorim is about to pull off a ‘masterstroke’ with a ‘surprise offer’ for Benfica wing-back Alvaro Carreras that ‘ruins’ the transfer plans of Barcelona and Real Madrid.
If the deal to Man Utd is confirmed, it ‘would leave the two Spanish giants without one of the jewels they have on their agenda for the future’.
Man Utd are said to be ‘keen to exploit’ a ‘contractual detail’ that they inserted into his agreement at Benfica with the Red Devils retaining a buy-back option worth around €20m.
Amorim ‘believes that Carreras would fit perfectly into his tactical scheme, and his arrival would be a key reinforcement’, while Barcelona and Real Madrid will be ‘forced to look for alternatives’.
The report adds that the ‘next few days will be decisive in confirming whether the young Spanish full-back becomes the new bet’ at Man Utd.
While a join report from Gianluca di Marzio and Melissa Reddy claims Man Utd and Lecce are just ironing out the final details of a potential transfer.
The duo wrote on Sky Sports: ‘Manchester United and Lecce are finalising the last details of payment terms for Patrick Dorgu on a deal worth £25m (€30m) + £5.9m (€7.5m) in add-ons.
‘Dorgu’s strong desire to join United has made the club optimistic a deal can be struck this week.
‘Meanwhile, talks are continuing between Napoli and Manchester United over Alejandro Garnacho.’
In a shocking turn of events, Manchester United has reportedly made a surprise offer for Sporting Lisbon’s highly sought-after manager, Ruben Amorim. The move has been described as a masterstroke by many in the football world, as it not only secures Amorim’s future at the club but also deals a blow to Barcelona and Real Madrid’s plans to poach the talented coach.
Amorim has been a revelation at Sporting Lisbon, leading the team to an unbeaten league campaign and securing their first Primeira Liga title in nearly two decades. His tactical acumen and ability to develop young players have caught the eye of several top clubs in Europe, with Barcelona and Real Madrid rumored to be interested in his services.
However, Manchester United’s surprise offer has thrown a spanner in the works for both Spanish giants. The Red Devils are reportedly willing to pay a hefty sum to secure Amorim’s signature, making it difficult for Barcelona and Real Madrid to compete financially.
This unexpected twist in the managerial merry-go-round has left fans and pundits alike stunned, with many praising Manchester United for their bold move. Only time will tell if Amorim will accept the offer, but one thing is for certain – his future at Sporting Lisbon is far from certain.
HONOLULU (Island News) — President Trump has made immigration a key priority of his administration.
In Hawaii, nearly 20% of the population are immigrants.
We take a look at how proposed changes could impact the islands.
Immigration is not only a big part of Hawaii’s past, it is an important part of our present—with much needed professionals coming from other countries to work in places like hospitals as doctors and nurses.
With nearly 20% of Hawaii’s population being immigrants, President Trump’s proposed changes could impact the way professionals come from other counties to find opportunities in the states.
“Professionals that are foreign born that employers want to hire and they can’t find local people to do the work—whether they are healthcare professionals, engineers,” said immigration attorney Maile Hirota.
Hirota has been busy leading up to President Trumps inauguration. She now expects to be even busier as executive orders are signed.
“All over the world, countries are emptying their prisons and mental institutions into our country. It ends at 1 p.m. today,” said President Trump on his Inauguration Day.
Trump has made illegal immigration a key issue, but during his first term he also slowed down legal immigration of professionals and those getting green cards or becoming naturalized citizens. He could do so again.
“I think we are going to see employers in Hawaii suffering because they can’t get workers here,” said Hirota.
Trump’s new executive orders do have the power to change the status of undocumented children brought to the United States by their parents, known as Dreamers. Or he could put travel restrictions on immigrants—something he did during his first term.
“Another thing the president has talked about is ending birth right citizenship and many people are scared they wouldn’t be able to keep their U.S. citizenship or fear for their spouse who is a naturalized citizen,” added Hirota.
But birth right citizenship is protected by the U.S. Constitution and efforts to change it could turn into a lengthy court battle.
When it comes to immigration in the islands, a number of people feel it has been a benefit to the state and the country.
“This country was built on immigration and the people that are coming in, the majority of them are coming to build a better future for their family,” said Honolulu resident Ernest Brezeale.
Even those who support Trump being in office—
“We need a change. The world is not doing so good, so at least now we got options,” said Waimanalo resident Lance Kaanoi.
—feel immigration has helped Hawaii become a positive place.
“We are all immigrants. We all came from someplace else and we are all human, so we gotta take care of one another,” added Kaanoi.
In recent years, immigration policies in the United States have been a hot topic of debate, with President Trump implementing several changes to the system. These changes could have a significant impact on Hawaii, a state with a diverse population and strong ties to immigration.
One of the key components of Trump’s immigration plans is the crackdown on illegal immigration. This could impact Hawaii, as the state has a large immigrant population, including many who may be undocumented. Increased enforcement measures could lead to deportations and separations of families, causing fear and uncertainty within the community.
Additionally, Trump’s plans to restrict legal immigration could also affect Hawaii. The state relies heavily on foreign workers, particularly in industries such as tourism and agriculture. Limiting the number of visas available for these workers could create labor shortages and economic challenges for businesses in Hawaii.
Furthermore, Trump’s policies targeting refugees and asylum seekers could also have repercussions for Hawaii. The state has historically been a welcoming place for refugees, particularly from countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Restrictions on refugee admissions could impact Hawaii’s reputation as a compassionate and inclusive community.
Overall, Trump’s immigration plans could have far-reaching effects on Hawaii, impacting the economy, social fabric, and cultural diversity of the state. It is important for local leaders and residents to stay informed and advocate for policies that uphold the values of inclusivity and diversity that are central to Hawaii’s identity.
As the host of the pop culture phenomenon Hot Ones, Sean Evans is used to sitting across from A-list stars while making them sweat with spicy wings and a side of interview questions. But this week in Park City, Evans found himself in relatively new territory by attending his first Sundance Film Festival, walking red carpets and facing off with journalists.
“I like your side a little bit better, there’s more control. I’m a little bit on my heels with you, but I’m ready,” said Evans with that now-familiar smile as he spent a few minutes with The Hollywood Reporter ahead of the starry fundraiser Celebrating Sundance Institute at Grand Hyatt Deer Valley on Friday night.
Evans, hot on the heels of a deal to acquire his show’s production company, First We Feast, from Buzzfeed along with a team of investors that includes fellow YouTube stars Rhett and Link (who are also here in Park City), was loving what he’d experienced at Sundance so far. “It’s been a lot of fun,” he said. “It’s a beautiful city, an amazing environment. It’s cool to see the way that people rally around film here, and I’m just kind of soaking it all in.”
Like much of his life, the trip was “a little business, a little pleasure,” a benefit of internet stardom. “The show gives me all these unique experiences and I get to travel to all these cool spots and have unique access to all of these things,” he explained. “I never take any of that for granted.”
He’s particularly looking forward to Oscar weekend and he revealed to THR that he’s got big things planned. “I’m going to the Oscars,” he confirmed. “I actually just got fitted for the tux. We’ll see what we can do because of the situation [with the wildfires] in Los Angeles. They’ve had to move some things around, but hopefully we’re going to do some fun sit down interviews with some people. I’m looking forward to it.”
Evans didn’t reveal if it’s a formal partnership with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences or if he’ll be filming away from the red carpet that day, but THR has reached out for additional intel.
In the meantime, Evans will continue to soak up his time at Sundance. And he seems to have been making the most of it. He was spotted at TAO Park City on Saturday night when Jennifer Lopez took to the stage for a surprise 10-minute performance on what turned out to be a snowy, cold night in Park City with temperatures in the low teens. He may host Hot Ones but Evans is just as “well-versed” in the cold.
“I grew up in Chicago,” said Evans, a graduate of University of Illinois. “So my whole thing is if you’re too hot, that’s uncomfortable. If you’re too cold, that’s painful. That’s miserable. I’d rather be too hot than too cold.”
Hot Ones drops a new episode every Thursday morning on YouTube.
Get ready for some spicy Oscar coverage because Sean Evans, the host of the popular YouTube show “Hot Ones,” is teasing his plans for the upcoming Academy Awards. Known for his love of all things hot and spicy, Evans has hinted that he will be bringing the heat to the red carpet with his signature brand of fiery interviews.
Fans of “Hot Ones” know that Evans is no stranger to putting celebrities in the hot seat with his lineup of increasingly spicy chicken wings. From Scarlett Johansson to Gordon Ramsay, Evans has grilled some of the biggest names in Hollywood with his burning questions and even hotter sauces.
Now, it looks like Evans is setting his sights on the Oscars, promising to bring the heat to the star-studded event. Whether he’ll be conducting interviews on the red carpet or hosting a special episode of “Hot Ones” featuring Oscar nominees, one thing is for sure – things are about to get spicy.
So, be sure to tune in to see what Sean Evans has in store for the Oscars. Who knows, maybe we’ll see some A-listers sweating it out over a plate of chicken wings. One thing’s for certain – it’s going to be one hot night at the Oscars.
Republicans are reportedly prepared to cut Medicaid funding to pay for Donald Trump’s promised crackdown on immigration and to fund tax cuts that would mostly benefit the wealthy.
The GOP in the House and Senate have floated a series of ideas – many of which would target lower-income Americans – to cover the cost of extending tax cuts passed by Trump in 2017, the New York Times reported.
Among the proposals is a plan to reduce access to Medicaid, the government scheme which provides health insurance to low-income Americans, in a move which would cause 600,000 people to lose access to healthcare.
Trump has touted the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act as a key achievement of his first term. The legislation, which reduced the top corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, is set to expire at the end of 2025, and the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office has estimated extending it would add $4.6tn to the deficit.
On the campaign trail Trump repeatedly promised to make the 2017 tax cuts permanent, but with the 2025 deadline looming, Republicans are scrambling to find a way to fund that pledge – along with the money required for Trump’s desired crackdown on immigration.
Along with the Medicaid cut, which would introduce work requirements that would effectively strip 600,000 people of their healthcare coverage, Republicans are considering ending Medicaid for non-US citizens, and repealing Biden-era tax credits which are designed to reduce health costs, the New York Times reported.
A 50-page document being circulated among congressional Republicans also proposes taxing income from scholarships and fellowships, rolling back climate change efforts passed under the Biden administration, and raising taxes on people who can use a free gym in the workplace.
Another proposal outlines changes to the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, which would reduce coverage for some lower-income Americans, Newsweek reported.
The Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center reported in July that households making about $450,000 or more would receive nearly half of the benefits of the extended tax cuts. The median household income in the US is $80,610, and 95% of American households make less than $400,000 a year.
Biden had promised to extend the tax cuts only for families making $400,000 or less a year.
in Congress are reportedly considering cutting Medicaid funding in order to pay for President Trump’s proposed plans. This move has sparked outrage among Democrats and advocates for low-income Americans, who argue that cutting Medicaid would harm the most vulnerable members of society.
The proposed cuts to Medicaid come as part of a larger effort by Republicans to offset the costs of Trump’s ambitious agenda, which includes tax cuts, military spending increases, and infrastructure investments. Medicaid, which provides healthcare coverage to low-income individuals and families, is a major target for budget cuts due to its high cost.
Critics of the proposed cuts argue that slashing Medicaid funding would leave millions of Americans without access to essential healthcare services, including preventive care, prescription drugs, and long-term care. They also warn that cutting Medicaid would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
Republicans argue that reducing Medicaid spending is necessary to rein in the federal budget deficit and ensure the long-term sustainability of the program. They also claim that cutting Medicaid funding will encourage states to find more efficient ways to deliver healthcare services to low-income residents.
As the debate over Medicaid funding continues to intensify, it remains to be seen how Congress will ultimately address the issue. Advocates for low-income Americans are urging lawmakers to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable members of society and protect Medicaid from drastic cuts.
The wind and flames that continue to plague Southern California — and the long, costly recovery that lies ahead — have raised new concerns about hosting three major sporting events over the next three years.
With none of the region’s stadiums or arenas damaged so far, event organizers and government leaders have expressed confidence about pushing ahead.
“Los Angeles is defined by its resilience and determination,” Casey Wasserman, chairman of the LA28 organizing committee, said in a statement. “The strength of our communities and our unity in tough times make this city extraordinary, and when Los Angeles welcomes the world in 2028, our spirit will shine brighter than ever before.”
But others worry about sports usurping resources and valuable attention that should be devoted to rebuilding.
“Any city preparing for three massive events has its hands full,” said Jules Boykoff, who studies the politics of sport at Pacific University in Oregon. “If these good people in the government are working on the Olympics and the Super Bowl, they are not working on other issues.”
Each of the events will have a different impact on the city. The Super Bowl will take place on a Sunday at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. The World Cup, also at SoFi, will feature eight matches in the space of a month.
The Summer Games will involve thousands of athletes, dozens of venues across the region and an estimated 15 million visitors over 17 days in July of 2028. That will be followed the next month by the Paralympics, another event expected to bring thousands of athletes and spectators to the city.
Only two proposed Olympic venues were threatened by wildfires. Riviera Country Club, which would host golf, fell inside the Palisades fire evacuation zone and UCLA, which would serve as an athletes village in 2028, was just outside the warning boundary.
SoFi was about 15 miles from the nearest flames, yet the NFL decided to shift Monday night’s playoff game between the Rams and Minnesota Vikings to Phoenix.
“The guiding principle for us has always been, don’t interfere and do anything that’s going to impact negatively on public safety,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in an interview. “Make sure you’re not sapping resources from the responders.”
Conservative commentators such as Trish Regan and Charlie Kirk called for a stronger response.
“We must move the Olympics out of [California] as fast as possible,” Regan posted on X, adding that the state’s leadership “cannot be trusted.”
The idea of switching host cities is not new. As early as 1908, the International Olympic Committee wanted Rome as host but shifted to London after Mount Vesuvius erupted, devastating the nearby province of Naples.
It is ironic that Southern California now finds itself in a comparable situation.
Before the 1924 Summer Games, when host Paris was beset by floods and economic struggles, L.A. civic leaders volunteered their city as a last-minute replacement. France was able to stage the Games, but the offer to help was not forgotten.
“It got them in the good graces of the IOC,” said Mark Dyreson, a sports historian at Penn State. “They developed this mythology that L.A. was the great backup city.”
The Games eventually came here in 1932 and 1984, reinforcing the ever-ready reputation. Plans for 2028 will rely almost entirely on existing venues such as SoFi, the Intuit Dome and the historic Coliseum, avoiding the massive construction required of past hosts.
Capital costs notwithstanding, the Olympics will require additional police, traffic control, garbage collection and other public services. LA28 has vowed to generate enough revenue to reimburse the city and pay all other expenses in its $7-billion budget, but should there be a shortfall, city and state officials agreed to contribute hundreds of millions in taxpayer dollars.
Man-hours are another issue. Planning for the World Cup, Super Bowl and Olympics is well underway, with various cities preparing studies, negotiating contracts and forming subcommittees. Council members have spent hours discussing the matter.
The extra workload could be problematic for leaders also dealing with wildfires.
“How can we handle these things properly at the same time?” said Eric Sheehan, a spokesman for the grass-roots NOlympics LA group. “The only alternative is to short-change devastated residents.”
In regards to the Games, the host city contract that L.A. signed allows the IOC to terminate under specific circumstances; also, organizers could plead their case to Olympic officials. Denver was awarded the 1976 Winter Olympics, then withdrew two years later when voters rejected a funding referendum. Those Games landed in Innsbruck, Austria.
Despite the many challenges facing Southern California, critics don’t see L.A. backing off. “I fully expect leaders in Los Angeles to fashion a ‘recovery’ narrative,” said Boykoff, the Pacific University professor.
Japanese officials took this approach when bidding for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after the 2011 Fukushima nuclear plant disaster, claiming that big events can lift community spirits and boost the economy. The IOC always has liked the idea of the Games having a positive social impact.
Gov. Gavin Newsom already touched on this theme for L.A., talking to NBC News about “all that opportunity, that pride and spirit that comes from hosting those three iconic [events].”
When asked if the city can be ready in time, he said: “My humble position, and it’s not just being naively optimistic, that only reinforces the imperative moving quickly, doing it in the spirit of collaboration and cooperation.”
The governor predicted that President-elect Trump, who has made a habit of attending high-profile games, will be motivated to help.
At this point, with fires still active in the region, World Cup officials say they are monitoring the situation. LA28 leaders are focused on immediate concerns — some employees have been affected — and will turn to long-range plans later.
The past week has shown that everything can change in the blink of an eye, so three years is a long time. If L.A. decides to stick with its plans, Boykoff warned, “you kind of have to expect the unexpected.”
In the wake of devastating wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles and surrounding areas, many are questioning whether the city should reconsider its plans to host major sporting events such as the World Cup, Super Bowl, and Olympics.
While these events are typically seen as opportunities for economic growth and global recognition, some argue that the resources and attention needed to host them would be better spent on rebuilding and recovery efforts in the fire-affected regions.
Others believe that hosting these events could actually provide a much-needed boost to the local economy and morale, potentially bringing in much-needed revenue and tourism dollars to the area.
What do you think? Should fire-torn LA drop plans for these major sporting events in order to focus on recovery efforts, or should they proceed as planned in hopes of bringing some much-needed positivity to the region? Share your thoughts below.
GREEN BAY – Optimism is common this time of year, as teams put a wrap on the previous season and start looking forward.
But sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish what’s just talk from a genuinely positive outlook.
Make no mistake, the optimism surrounding Year 2 of Jeff Hafley’s defense in Green Bay is very real, and it stems from not just the Packers’ improvement in one season, but also the youth that established itself in 2024.
“I’m not going to lie: We’re going to be dangerous,” rookie safety Javon Bullard said as he cleaned out his locker last week. “We’re going to be dangerous. And I’m not just saying that. We’re going to be a special group.
“Our class, the vets that we still have, I have a tremendous amount of faith in us and what we’re going to bring to the table.”
Personnel-wise, a trio of draft picks in Bullard, fellow safety Evan Williams and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper developed into regulars and impact players, with Cooper’s contributions (13 tackles for loss, 3½ sacks, four passes defensed, one INT) earning the most recognition. The second-round pick out of Texas A&M was twice named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week, and he finished the regular season as the NFC Defensive Rookie of the Month.
They joined a unit anchored by veteran addition Xavier McKinney on the back end, and mainstays Kenny Clark, Rashan Gary and Quay Walker, among others, in the front seven. Keisean Nixon also took over as the team’s No. 1 cornerback in place of an injured Jaire Alexander, and the depth at other spots passed various tests due to injuries along the way.
Compared to Green Bay’s 2023 defense, Hafley’s unit improved from 28th to seventh in rushing yards allowed, 17th to fifth in total yards allowed, and 10th to sixth in points allowed, while nearly doubling its takeaways from 17 to 31.
The turnaround was nothing short of significant, particularly for a first-year defensive coordinator.
“I’m a big fan of just everything he came with and really just the culture he set foot, as soon as he stepped into the door,” Williams said of Hafley. “He made it clear off the rip that he wanted us to play free, play physical and just play fast. I feel like my play style really fits into that mold.
“So yeah, you had a lot of guys that just came in and bought in immediately. I think that showed.”
General Manager Brian Gutekunst even admitted what Hafley accomplished, both in terms of culture and results, exceeded his expectations because he figured Hafley might need more time to readjust to the NFL after coming from a four-year stint in the NCAA as Boston College’s head coach.
He also emphasized, as Head Coach Matt LaFleur did at season’s end, that the defense put on a winning performance at Philadelphia in the NFC Wild Card round.
“I thought Jeff Hafley did an amazing job coming in here in Year 1,” Gutekunst said. “Those guys really grew together, and they were a unit, and I thought we were playing our best football on defense at the end of the year.
“The strides we took during the season really were really, really impressive. The jumps. And I’m excited to see what he can do Year 2.”
One caveat: The Packers are hoping Hafley doesn’t get stolen away, as he’s one of at least 15 candidates who has interviewed for the Jets’ head coaching job.
Another: The unit did have deficiencies that must be addressed.
The pass rush was hit or miss and particularly struggled against the NFC’s top teams (Eagles, Lions, Vikings), none of whom the Packers beat in six tries.
Hafley got creative by simulating blitzes and trying to keep opposing offenses guessing as to who was rushing, without compromising the coverage numbers-wise, and all that scheming had its share of success.
But the ability to generate steady pressure from a traditional front four will be a focal point heading into next season, both in terms of personnel and coaching, with a change at defensive line coach in the works following Jason Rebrovich’s dismissal.
“I can say this: I definitely do love the system we’re in,” said defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt, whom Gutekunst called the defense’s most consistent interior rusher. He had five sacks despite missing three games this season and playing less than full strength in others. “For sure it fits us a lot.
“How do I feel about it? … I mean, it’s going to be wicked next year.”
Discipline penalties, both pre- and post-snap, were an issue that never seemed to get solved as well. Other questions include Alexander’s uncertain future and several pending free agents on whom contract decisions must be made.
But however it shakes out, the bulk of the defense’s core will remain intact, while 2024 draft picks Ty’Ron Hopper at linebacker and Kitan Oladapo at safety are waiting in the wings.
“I think the future’s bright,” Nixon said. “We had 31 turnovers … that was just a start. That’s off of just buying into what the coaches were bringing in.”
Oh, they bought in alright. Now it’s onward and upward.
“When all our pieces are executing, we could just take over games,” Williams said. “I’m definitely going to keep that picture in my mind.
“Hopefully we’ll have most of the same pieces and if we can execute our game plan … we can be real dangerous.”
The Green Bay Packers’ defense is gearing up to be a force to be reckoned with next season. After a solid showing in 2021, the team is looking to take their game to the next level and become a dominant force in the league.
Defensive coordinator Joe Barry recently spoke about the team’s plans for the upcoming season, stating that they aim to be “dangerous” on the field. With a talented roster and a renewed focus on fundamentals and technique, the Packers’ defense is poised to make a statement in the NFL.
Key players like Jaire Alexander, Kenny Clark, and Za’Darius Smith are expected to lead the charge, while young stars like Rashan Gary and Eric Stokes are ready to step up and make an impact. The team is also looking to add depth and talent through the draft and free agency, further bolstering their defensive prowess.
Packers fans can expect an aggressive, hard-hitting defense that will keep opposing offenses on their toes. With a renewed sense of urgency and a hunger for success, the Packers’ defense is ready to take the league by storm next season. Get ready, NFL – the Packers are coming for you. #GoPackGo #PackersDefense #NFL
Fubo is raising the costs of all of its plans by $5. This includes the Essential plan, which launched in December.
David Satin and Matt Tamanini of Streamable.com detailed the price increase.
“Fubo had the best price for a large-scale live TV streaming channel package on the market… for around seven weeks,” the report said. “Its Essential plan, introduced in early December and priced at $80 per month was less expensive than DIRECTV STREAM, Hulu + Live TV, or YouTube TV, but after about a month and a half, the service has already raised the price. Fubo has raised subscription prices by $5 per month on all its English-language plans for new customers, including the Essential package.”
Michael Timmermann of Michaelsaves.com updated his price tracker. The increase of the Essential plan to $85 per month now means that Fubo’s plan is more expensive than all other streaming options, aside from DIRECTV. It had previously been less expensive than Hulu and YouTube TV.
I’ve updated my live TV streaming price tracker to reflect Fubo’s $5/month increase.
The increase means that Fubo’s Essential plan and Pro plan now have the same cost.
“However, the difference is that the Pro plan comes with a full suite of regional sports networks (RSNs), which can cost up to $16 per month, depending on the number of RSNs in an individual market,” Satin and Tamanini said.
That’s a critical difference particularly as we get into the later stretches of the NBA and NHL seasons, as well as the start of the MLB season in March.
“Fubo’s Essential and Pro plans come with essentially the same number of channels (between 210 and 215), but the major differentiator is that the Pro plan offers market-specific RSNs, including FanDuel Sports Network channels around the country and Marquee Sports Network in Chicago,” the report added. “As Fubo prides itself on being a sports-centric streamer, the ability to stream your favorite local MLB, NBA, and NHL teams on the service is a huge bonus for sports fans, as it is becoming increasingly difficult to find those channels.”
Fubo TV, the popular streaming service known for its extensive sports coverage, has announced some major changes to its plans.
The company has introduced a new Essential plan, which includes over 100 channels, including sports, news, and entertainment. This plan is priced at $64.99 per month, a $5 increase from the previous base plan.
In addition to the new Essential plan, Fubo TV has also increased the cost of its other plans by $5 per month. The Family plan, which includes over 120 channels, is now priced at $69.99 per month, while the Ultra plan, with over 180 channels, is now $84.99 per month.
Fubo TV has cited rising programming costs as the reason for the price increase. Despite the higher prices, the company remains committed to providing high-quality content and a wide range of programming options for its customers.
Customers can expect these changes to take effect in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more updates on Fubo TV’s plans and offerings.
A Sheetz location in Ross Township is on the verge of a significant transformation, as plans are underway for its demolition and subsequent reconstruction.
The gas station situated on Babcock Boulevard is set to undergo a comprehensive overhaul, referred to as a “Raze and Rebuild” project by the engineering firm involved.
Local authorities have indicated that the new structure will maintain a similar design to the current facility but will feature notable upgrades, including a new canopy and potentially a drive-thru service.
This renovation aims to enhance customer experience and modernize the site.
During a recent township meeting, officials decided to postpone any decisions regarding the proposal. They are seeking additional details about the project before moving forward.
The community is keenly watching this development, as it could significantly impact local traffic and services.
As discussions continue, residents are encouraged to stay informed about updates related to the Sheetz renovation project.
Sheetz in Ross Township, located at 1490 Mt. Nebo Road, is set for a major overhaul as plans have been unveiled to raze and rebuild the popular convenience store. The new design will feature a modern and spacious layout, with updated amenities and state-of-the-art technology.
The revamped Sheetz will include a larger dining area, expanded fueling stations, and enhanced food offerings. Customers can expect to see new menu items and improved grab-and-go options, as well as a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.
The construction is expected to begin in the coming months, with a projected completion date in the fall. During this time, the current Sheetz location will remain open for business, ensuring minimal disruption for customers.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting redevelopment project as Sheetz in Ross Township undergoes a transformation to better serve the community.
Blockchain protocol Chain is considering legal action against TRON founder Justin Sun after he accused the company of market manipulation.
Chain, a blockchain firm backed by over $40 million from investors including Pantera Capital and Citigroup,has threatened legal action against Sun following allegations of market manipulation.
In an X post on Jan. 24, Sun claimed that Chain was using “high leverage and contract that could cause serious harm to many exchange users.”
While Sun did not provide details about the alleged manipulations, he warned crypto exchanges to exercise caution and stated that he would “report their illegal activities to the SEC and DOJ for further investigation.” He also tagged major exchanges, including Coinbase, Kraken, and Bybit, urging them to take action.
Chain rejects market manipulation accusations
Chain was quick to respond, rejecting Sun’s allegations. In a follow-up post, the company stated that it is “not actively engaged in ANY trading of XCN, nor involved in ANY market manipulation directly or indirectly.” Chain further clarified that the XCN token is managed by OnyxDAO and announced plans to explore “legal remedies” against Sun over his claims.
The Chain team is not actively engaged in ANY trading of XCN, nor involved in ANY market manipulation directly or indirectly. We take these allegations extremely seriously and are exploring legal remedies against @JustinSun. XCN is managed by @OnyxDAO and not by @Chain.
Soon after Chain responded, Sun fired off another X post. This time, the TRON founder tagged OnyxDAO and called on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Department of Justice to look into the situation. The accusations came right after the XCN token saw a big price jump, as its price soared 149% in one day and nearly 400% in a week, as crypto.news reported earlier.
Founded in 2014, Chain has raised over $40 million in funding from Khosla Ventures, Pantera Capital, Capital One, Citigroup, Fiserv, Nasdaq, Orange, and Visa, the firm claims on its website. In 2018, Stellar acquired Chain to form Interstellar, a commercial arm of the Stellar Foundation. In 2020, Chain was re-acquired.
Chain, the leading blockchain company, has announced plans to sue Justin Sun, founder of TRON and BitTorrent, over accusations of market manipulation. The lawsuit comes after Chain conducted a thorough investigation and found evidence that Sun had engaged in illegal activities to artificially inflate the price of TRON and BitTorrent tokens.
In a statement released by Chain, they expressed their commitment to upholding the integrity of the cryptocurrency market and holding accountable those who seek to manipulate it for personal gain. The company stated that they will not tolerate any form of market manipulation and will take all necessary legal actions to ensure justice is served.
Justin Sun has yet to respond to the allegations, but Chain’s lawsuit is expected to bring further scrutiny to his business practices. This development has sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency community, with many calling for increased regulation and oversight to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the lawsuit unfolds, the cryptocurrency market will be closely watching to see how this case will impact the industry as a whole. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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Chain lawsuit against Justin Sun
Market manipulation allegations against Justin Sun
