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7 Things: They are still ‘counting’ in Cali; ‘racist’ texts in Alabama and beyond; Rogers could be Secretary of Defense as Space Command fight nears; and more …

7. A “mass shooting” occurred early Sunday morning at Tuskegee University, following its 100th homecoming celebration, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. Videos posted on social media captured the chaos, with sounds of gunfire and attendees shouting to “stay down” as they sought cover. The deceased victim was not affiliated with the university, while several others, including students, are receiving medical treatment for injuries.

6. Following President-elect Donald Trump’s election win, social media saw a surge of conspiracy theories, mainly from left-leaning users, but some from the right about 2020. Claims, including assertions of “missing votes,” spread quickly, paralleling past right-wing election denial but from a new angle. Experts caution that these baseless allegations erode trust in democratic systems regardless of political origin. Election officials emphasize that slower vote counting in certain states explains any perceived vote discrepancies.

5. Former Joe Biden spokesman Michael LaRosa urged President Joe Biden to resign, advocating that this move would allow Vice President Kamala Harris to take office and make history as the first female president. LaRosa, who previously worked with First Lady Jill Biden, argued that Biden’s resignation could reinvigorate the Democratic base and enhance the party’s legacy by highlighting its commitment to diversity and leadership progress. He pointed out that the party could benefit from a younger, dynamic figure in Harris, who could help address current challenges and ensure continuity in Democratic leadership amid shifting political tides.

4. U.S. Rep. Jeff Crank (R-Colo.) vowed to “resist any attempt” to relocate U.S. Space Command HQ from Colorado Springs to Huntsville, despite expected moves under President Trump. Crank argued Colorado has the “military value” to retain Space Command, warning that a move would be a “political” choice. Although Trump initially supported the relocation to Huntsville in 2021, Crank expressed uncertainty about Trump’s current stance, given his shifting positions.

3. U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks), recently named chair of the House Armed Services Committee, is being considered by President-elect Donald Trump for the secretary of defense role, positioning him as a leading candidate alongside Mike Pompeo (which Trump denied) and U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark). Rogers has pushed for enhanced military readiness in light of perceived threats from countries like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. Known for his strong stance on national defense, he aims to bolster the U.S. military’s “lethality and capability,” focusing on addressing emerging security challenges.

2. Authorities are investigating racist, hateful text messages that were sent anonymously to black individuals in several states, including Alabama, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Michigan, on Election Day. The messages, described as deeply disturbing, contained references to slavery and reportedly targeted individuals through spoofed phone numbers, making it challenging to trace the senders. Both the FBI and state law enforcement are involved, condemning the messages as “unacceptable” and pledging to pursue those responsible for these racist and intimidating acts.

1. Republicans are on the verge of retaining House control with 213 seats secured and just five more needed, following their Senate victory but the counting is still happening and House Democrats are still fighting for votes. With Trump’s presidential win, this would give Republicans significant legislative power to advance their agenda on tax cuts, spending, energy deregulation, and border security. Remaining competitive House races are mostly in Western states, where counting has been slower, while the GOP Senate leader race sees Rick Scott (R-Fla.) challenging front-runners John Thune (R-S.D.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas), who have vowed to expedite Trump’s cabinet confirmations if chosen​.

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Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN and from 10-11 a.m. on Talk 99.5 and News Radio 1440, with a rebroadcast Talk Radio 103.9 FM/730AM WUMP from 3-4 p.m.

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