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Democrats Criticize White House Ballroom Plan Amid Rising inflation

Democrats criticize the White House ballroom proposal as Americans face rising energy prices and inflation linked to the Iran conflict.

Democrats Criticize White House Ballroom Plan Amid Rising inflation
Democrats Criticize White House Ballroom Plan

Democrats Criticize White House Ballroom Plan Amid Rising inflation

Democrats are criticizing the White House over the timing and optics of plans to build a new ballroom, arguing the proposal appears disconnected from the financial struggles many Americans are facing.

The backlash intensified following a recent shooting tied to the White House Correspondentsโ€™ Dinner, with critics saying the administrationโ€™s push for the project is poorly timed. Lawmakers pointed to rising living costs, noting that many households are struggling to afford essentials such as groceries and utility bills.

US Inflation Surges to 3.5% in March Amid Iran War

The controversy has also grown around a proposal to allocate $400 million for the ballroom by bypassing legal obstacles. Some Democrats argue the administration is using a tragic event to justify moving forward with the project.

Political strategists say the issue could provide Democrats with a new line of attack against Republicans, particularly as voters continue to feel the impact of higher energy prices and broader affordability concerns ahead of upcoming elections.

Supporters of the ballroom project, including the White House, argue it would enhance the ability to host large-scale events such as state dinners. Officials have emphasized that the construction would be funded through private donations rather than taxpayer money, with contributions reportedly coming from major corporations.

However, critics question both the necessity of the project and the decision to link it to recent events. They also argue that hosting traditionally private functions, such as the Correspondentsโ€™ Dinner, at the White House could blur important boundaries.

The debate comes at a time when rising energy costs partly driven by the ongoing conflict in Iran, are putting additional pressure on American consumers. Gas prices have hiked significantly, adding to concerns about inflation and household expenses.

While the administration says it is exploring ways to stabilize energy markets, including discussions with industry leaders, Democrats are urging a stronger focus on addressing affordability issues that directly affect voters.

Some party strategists, however, caution against focusing too heavily on criticism of President Trump and related projects, suggesting that economic messaging will be key in influencing voters in the months ahead.


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US Inflation Surges to 3.5% in March Amid Iran War

U.S. inflation rose sharply to 3.5% in March, driven by the Iran war and rising energy costs, according to the latest Commerce Department data.

US Inflation Surges to 3.5% in March Amid Iran War
US Inflation Surges to 3.5% in March

US Inflation Surges to 3.5% in March Amid Iran War

Inflation accelerated sharply in March, driven largely by the economic impact of the ongoing war in Iran, according to new data released Thursday by the Commerce Department.

The personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index showed that annual inflation hiked to 3.5 percent in March, significantly from 2.8 percent recorded in February. Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, also rose to 3.2 percent as energy markets reacted to geopolitical tensions.

On a monthly basis, consumer prices increased by 0.7 percent in March, compared to a 0.4 percent rise in the previous month, highlighting a notable surge in cost pressures.

The PCE index, the Federal Reserveโ€™s preferred gauge for tracking inflation, now sits well above the central bankโ€™s 2 percent target, raising concerns about persistent inflationary trends.

Economists had anticipated the uptick, warning that the conflict in Iran could place significant strain on the U.S. economy through higher energy costs and supply disruptions.

The inflation spike is expected to intensify scrutiny on President Trump and Republican leaders, who are already under pressure over their economic policies, as rising prices continue to impact American households.


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Ohio Primary Election 2026: Key Deadlines, Voting Rules, and Security Measures Explained

Ohio Primary Election 2026: Key Deadlines, Voting Rules, and Security Measures Explained
Ohio Primary Election 2026

Ohio Primary Election 2026: Key Deadlines, Voting Rules, and Security Measures Explained

As the Ohio primary election approaches, voters are being reminded of updated rules, key deadlines, and the importance of participating in the democratic process.

Rising Gas Prices Hit Central Ohio Drivers Hard

Early voting is set to end on Sunday, giving residents a limited window to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day. Those using mail-in ballots must ensure they are dropped off at their county board of elections by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.

To boost voter awareness, The League of Women Voters recently hosted a virtual event urging Ohioans to make their voices heard on May 5. The organization emphasized that primary elections play a critical role in shaping major decisions at the local and state levels.

Officials highlighted that every vote matters, noting that even a single ballot can influence outcomes such as funding for essential services like local fire departments.

Concerns about election security were also addressed, with state officials reinforcing that Ohioโ€™s voting system is designed to be both secure and transparent. According to Jen Miller, Executive Director of the League of Women Voters, all voting machines undergo strict federal and state certification processes.

Additionally, every vote cast in Ohio is backed by a paper record, ensuring accountability. Voters either receive a printed confirmation similar to a receipt or use a paper ballot system that is later scanned and verified.

Election authorities routinely compare digital vote counts with paper backups, contributing to an accuracy rate of 99.999%, a benchmark often highlighted by the Secretary of State.

With safeguards in place and deadlines approaching, voters are encouraged to take part in the election and ensure their ballots are submitted on time.


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Rising Gas Prices Hit Central Ohio Drivers Hard

Gas prices in Central Ohio have surged overnight, impacting drivers and rideshare workers. Learn how fuel costs are affecting incomes and ways to save on gas.

Rising Gas Prices Hit Central Ohio Drivers Hard
Rising Gas Prices Hit Central Ohio Drivers Hard

Rising Gas Prices Hit Central Ohio Drivers Hard

Drivers across Central Ohio are feeling the impact of rising gas prices, but for those who rely on driving for a living, the financial burden is even more severe.

โ€œThis is honestly shocking,โ€ said Uber driver Ade Mahadzir, reacting to the sudden increase.

According to AAA, the average price of a gallon of gas reached $4.15 on Tuesday, marking a sharp 20-cent increase in just one day. Experts attribute the spike largely to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil supply.

โ€œAbout 20% of the worldโ€™s oil passes through that waterway near Iran,โ€ explained AAA spokesperson Morgan Dean.

The surge in fuel prices is hitting rideshare drivers especially hard. Mahadzir noted that he has to refuel nearly every day, making the rising costs difficult to manage.

โ€œThis is definitely cutting into my profit margin,โ€ he said.

While companies like Uber and Lyft have introduced measures such as cashback incentives and fuel discounts to ease the burden, many drivers say it may not be enough. Mahadzir admitted he is considering alternative employment options that require less driving.

โ€œI might need to look for another job that doesnโ€™t rely so heavily on gas just to maintain my lifestyle,โ€ he said.

AAA suggests that drivers can reduce the impact of high fuel prices by adopting cost-saving strategies. These include using fuel loyalty programs and maintaining vehicles properly, especially ensuring correct tire pressure.

โ€œUnder-inflated tires create more resistance on the road, forcing your car to work harder and burn more fuel,โ€ Dean explained.

As gas prices continue to rise, some residents in Central Ohio are being forced to cut back on everyday expenses.

โ€œI feel like I am back in college again,โ€ Mahadzir said. โ€œI am mostly eating ramen noodles just to save money.โ€


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Columbus Zoo Cheetah Kibibi Dies at 12

Kibibi, a pioneering cheetah at Columbus Zoo, has died at 12. Learn about her groundbreaking role in conservation, IVF success, and lasting legacy.

Columbus Zoo Cheetah Kibibi Dies at 12
Columbus Zoo Cheetah Kibibi Dies at 12

Columbus Zoo Cheetah Kibibi Dies at 12

A beloved cheetah known for her extraordinary contributions to wildlife conservation at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is being honored following her passing.

Kibibi, affectionately called Bibi, was among the earliest animals introduced to the zooโ€™s Heart of Africa exhibit. She also played a key role in the zooโ€™s well-known cheetah run program, a seasonal attraction where the cats demonstrate their incredible speed by chasing a mechanical lure.

According to zoo officials, Bibi arrived in Columbus 12 years ago as a one-week-old cub alongside her sister, Zemba. The pair were raised with a companion dog, Coby, a yellow Labrador retriever, forming a unique bond that lasted until Cobyโ€™s death in 2021.

Bibi made history six years ago as the first biological mother of cheetahs conceived through in vitro fertilization and carried by a surrogate. Her cubs, Dave and Adrienne, were born in February 2020 to a surrogate named Izzy. Through hormone treatments and egg collection, Bibi played a critical role in advancing cheetah conservation efforts.

Recently, animal care staff noticed a decline in Bibiโ€™s appetite, prompting medical evaluations. Tests revealed kidney-related health issues in the 12-and-a-half-year-old cheetah. Despite intensive treatment, including regular IV fluids and continuous monitoring, her condition did not improve. In mid-April, the zoo made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize her.

Bibiโ€™s impact will continue through her offspring and the zooโ€™s ongoing conservation initiatives. Her cubs, Dave and Adrienne, are expected to participate in the cheetah run program, which resumes on May 2.

Other cheetahs, including Debbie and Kesi, will also take part in the runs. Kesi, nearing 12 years old, is noted as both the oldest and fastest participant.

Kibibiโ€™s legacy stands as a powerful example of the impact one animal can have on conservation, research, and public education.


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Trump Demands Jimmy Kimmel Be Fired

President Donald Trump and Jimmy Kimmelโ€™s feud intensifies after Melania Trumpโ€™s criticism

Trump Demands Jimmy Kimmel Be Fired

The ongoing clash between Donald Trump and Jimmy Kimmel has quickly escalated into a noisy and highly public feud, spilling from late-night television into social media and sparking wider public debate.

What began as comedic remarks on a late-night show has now intensified into calls for termination, heated accusations, and even references to a troubling security incident that unfolded shortly afterward.

Melania Trumpโ€™s post ignites backlash

The situation gained traction after Melania Trump took to X (formerly Twitter), urging ABC to take action against Kimmel. She accused the host of engaging in what she described as โ€œatrocious behaviorโ€ and called on the network to respond.

In her post, Melania strongly criticized Kimmel, claiming his rhetoric was โ€œhateful and violentโ€ and designed to divide the country. She argued that his remarks about her family crossed the line, describing them as harmful rather than humorous.

She also questioned his presence on television, suggesting that figures like Kimmel should not be allowed into viewersโ€™ homes to spread negativity. Additionally, she labeled him a โ€œcoward,โ€ accusing him of relying on network support to shield himself.

Donald Trump intensifies criticism

Shortly after Melaniaโ€™s remarks, Donald Trump posted his own response on Truth Social, taking an even harsher tone. He criticized Kimmelโ€™s comedic ability and audience ratings, dismissing him as unfunny and unsuccessful.

Trump also accused Kimmel of airing a misleading video that appeared to show Melania Trump and their son Barron in the studio audience something he denied ever occurred.

He further highlighted a controversial joke from Kimmelโ€™s show, in which the host made a remark about Melania that Trump described as deeply offensive.

In a more serious turn, Trump linked the comedianโ€™s segment to a later security scare at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. He referenced an incident involving an armed individual attempting to enter the venue, suggesting the content of Kimmelโ€™s show contributed to heightened tensions. Trump characterized the situation as dangerous and labeled the comedy as a โ€œcall to violence.โ€

He concluded by demanding that Kimmel be removed from his position, calling for immediate action by Disney and ABC.

During the segment, Kimmel jokingly portrayed himself as hosting the dinner and made satirical comments about political figures, including the remark about Melania Trump that later drew criticism.


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Woman Killed in Franklin Park Stabbing in Columbus, Suspect Arrested

A woman was killed in a stabbing in Columbusโ€™ Franklin Park neighborhood. Police say a male suspect was taken into custody at the scene.

Woman Killed in Franklin Park Stabbing in Columbus, Suspect Arrested
Woman Killed in Franklin Park Stabbing in Columbus, Suspect Arrested

Woman Killed in Franklin Park Stabbing in Columbus, Suspect Arrested

One person has died following a stabbing incident in the Franklin Park neighborhood of Columbus on Saturday afternoon, according to local authorities.

Police reported that the attack occurred around 1:18 p.m. near the intersection of Kelton Avenue and Bryden Road. Officers responding to the scene discovered a woman suffering from multiple stab wounds.

Emergency crews transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly before 2 p.m., officials said.

Authorities confirmed that an adult male suspect remained at the scene and was taken into custody without incident.

Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the stabbing, including what may have led up to the incident.

Police have not yet released the identities of either the victim or the suspect as the investigation remains ongoing.


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Trump Evacuated from White House Correspondents Dinner

President Donald Trump evacuated after gunfire near the White House Correspondentsโ€™ Dinner at the Washington Hilton. Suspect in custody, no injuries reported.

Trump Evacuated from White House Correspondents Dinner
Trump Evacuated from White House Correspondents Dinner

Trump Evacuated from White House Correspondents Dinner

President Donald Trump evacuated Saturday evening after suspected gunfire near the White House Correspondentsโ€™ Dinner prompted a swift response from security agents at the Washington Hilton.

The incident unfolded near a security checkpoint outside the venue, where an armed individual reportedly fired shots, triggering panic among attendees and an immediate lockdown. Secret Service agents quickly escorted Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and Vice President JD Vance to safety. All were confirmed unharmed.

Authorities said one suspect is now in custody, though further details about their condition or motive have not yet been released.

Despite initially wanting to continue with the program, Trump later confirmed that the event would be postponed after law enforcement directed guests to leave the premises for safety reasons.

In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump praised the rapid response of security teams, saying they โ€œacted quickly and bravelyโ€ and confirmed that the shooter had been apprehended.

Inside the ballroom, witnesses described a chaotic scene as loud popping sounds were heard, prompting more than 2,000 attendees to duck for cover. White House officials and Cabinet members were seen being escorted out of the room as security teams secured the area.

White House Correspondentsโ€™ Association President Weijia Jiang later addressed the crowd, urging calm and confirming that everyone needed to exit the building following police instructions.

The Secret Service confirmed that the gunfire occurred outside the main event area and that an agent involved in the incident was not injured.

President Trump is expected to deliver remarks later addressing the situation, as investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival 2026: Dates, Lineup, Tickets & Event Guide


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Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival 2026: Dates, Lineup, Tickets & Event Guide

Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival 2026: Dates, Lineup, Tickets & Event Guide
Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival 2026

Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival 2026: Dates, Lineup, Tickets & Event Guide

Organizers of the Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival have officially unveiled the dates and artist lineup for the eventโ€™s 27th annual celebration.

The popular festival is set to take place from June 19 through June 21 in the Creekside District, bringing together more than 30 jazz and blues performers from local, regional, and national stages.

In addition to live music, attendees can enjoy a wide variety of food vendors, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and family-friendly entertainment. For the fifth consecutive year, local artists will also create live murals throughout Creekside Plaza, adding a vibrant visual element to the event.

โ€œEach year, the Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival continues to raise expectations,โ€ said Lori Kappes, executive director of Visit Gahanna, which organizes the festival. โ€œNow in its 27th year, it has become a must-attend summer tradition that energizes the community. With a mix of nationally recognized acts, local talent, and exceptional food offerings, we are proud to deliver an experience that keeps visitors returning year after year.โ€

Festival Lineup Highlights

June 19

  • Panac3a โ€“ 5 p.m. (Jazz Stage)
  • Micah Kesselring โ€“ 5:30 p.m. (Blues Stage)
  • The Labra Brothers โ€“ 7 p.m. (Jazz Stage)
  • Lilโ€™ Red & The Rooster with Bobby Floyd and Reggie Jackson โ€“ 7:30 p.m. (Blues Stage)
  • Tito Puente Jr. โ€“ 9 p.m. (Jazz Stage)
  • Selwyn Birchwood โ€“ 9:30 p.m. (Blues Stage)

June 20

  • Quacktronics โ€“ 1 p.m. (Jazz Stage)
  • Jimmy Nicholes โ€“ 1 p.m. (Creekside Stage)
  • Blue Spectrum โ€“ 1:30 p.m. (Blues Stage)
  • Josh Hill Trio โ€“ 3 p.m. (Jazz Stage)
  • Swingโ€™s The Thing โ€“ 3 p.m. (Creekside Stage)
  • Long Tall Deb and Colin John โ€“ 3:30 p.m. (Blues Stage)
  • Talisha Holmes Ensemble โ€“ 5 p.m. (Jazz Stage)
  • Columbus Soul and Salvage โ€“ 5 p.m. (Creekside Stage)
  • Just Another Mojo โ€“ 5:30 p.m. (Blues Stage)
  • Levi Brown & the Smoking Section โ€“ 7 p.m. (Jazz Stage)
  • The High Definitions โ€“ 7 p.m. (Creekside Stage)
  • North Mississippi Allstars โ€“ 7:30 p.m. (Blues Stage)
  • Urban Jazz Coalition featuring Brian Simpson โ€“ 9 p.m. (Jazz Stage)
  • The Deal Breakers โ€“ 9 p.m. (Creekside Stage)
  • Hoodoo Soul Band โ€“ 9:30 p.m. (Blues Stage)

June 21

  • 614BluesEd Band โ€“ Noon (Blues Stage)
  • 7 Mile Bluegrass โ€“ 1:30 p.m. (Creekside Stage)
  • Columbus Youth Jazz Orchestra โ€“ 1:30 p.m. (Jazz Stage)
  • Inner City Blues Band โ€“ 1:40 p.m. (Blues Stage)
  • Teeny Tucker โ€“ 3:30 p.m. (Blues Stage)
  • The Big Rockin Blues Band โ€“ 3:30 p.m. (Creekside Stage)
  • Largemouth Brass Band โ€“ 3:30 p.m. (Jazz Stage)

Tickets and Pricing

Festival tickets are currently available online and at the gate. Guests who purchase tickets online can save $5. Single-day passes are priced at $15 for adults and $10 for children aged 11 to 17. Weekend passes cost $30 for adults and $15 for children in the same age group.

Children under 10 can attend for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Active-duty and former military members with valid identification are also eligible for free entry.

Parking and Event Information

Parking is available at 700 Morrison Road, where shuttle services will run continuously to transport guests to and from the festival grounds.

Event hours are as follows:

  • June 19: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
  • June 20: 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.
  • June 21: Noon to 5 p.m.

Outside coolers and non-service animals are not permitted. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, although folding chairs will also be available on-site.


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Ohio Gubernatorial Candidate Heather Hill Challenges Ballot Removal in Court

Ohio gubernatorial candidate Heather Hill is taking legal action after being removed from the May 5 primary ballot following her running mateโ€™s withdrawal.

Ohio Gubernatorial Candidate Heather Hill Challenges Ballot Removal in Court
Ohio Gubernatorial Candidate Heather Hill Challenges Ballot Removal in Court

Ohio Gubernatorial Candidate Heather Hill Challenges Ballot Removal in Court

A Republican candidate in Ohioโ€™s gubernatorial race says she is taking legal action after being disqualified from the upcoming primary ballot.

Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose announced that Heather Hill is no longer eligible to compete in the May 5 primary election. The decision came after her running mate, Stuart Moats, officially withdrew from the race earlier this week.

Under Ohio law, gubernatorial candidates cannot replace their lieutenant governor running mate within 70 days of an election unless there are exceptional circumstances such as death. Following Moatsโ€™ withdrawal, LaRose stated that Hill could not continue her candidacy without an approved running mate.

Hill, however, claims she has not received formal notification of her removal and intends to challenge the decision in court. She said she visited the Secretary of Stateโ€™s office with paperwork naming a new running mate, but officials declined to accept it. Hill described the move as โ€œunjustโ€ and did not disclose the identity of her replacement pick.

According to Hill, attempts to contact state officials have gone unanswered. She also stated that she had anticipated replacing Moats at a later stage, despite knowing he would initially need to appear on the ballot.

In response, LaRoseโ€™s communications director, Dan Lusheck, said Hill had been properly informed multiple times about the legal requirements and her ineligibility to replace a running mate after the deadline.

The situation follows a public dispute between Hill and Moats that played out on social media. Their partnership ended after Hill accused Moats of using a racial slur and described him as โ€œviolentโ€ and โ€œdangerous.โ€ Moats denied the allegations and responded with personal attacks of his own, calling Hill unfit for office.

With Hill removed from the race, the Republican primary is now expected to feature candidates including Vivek Ramaswamy and Casey Putsch. The winner will go on to face Democratic candidate Amy Acton, who is running unopposed, in the November general election.


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