INTERNACIONAL
Republicans zero in on key player accused of helping Democrat fundraising giant hide foreign cash
FIRST ON FOX: House Republicans’ investigation into Democrats’ main fundraising platform is heating up on the heels of an explosive report that raised questions about whether left-wing candidates’ campaigns were raking in foreign cash.
Top House GOP committee chairs are summoning ActBlue attorney Ronald Machen for a closed-door interview sometime before Oct. 9, Digital has learned. A letter sent to Machen Monday morning stated that information he previously disclosed to investigators appears to contradict other data that has been collected, specifically on ActBlue’s verification standards for making sure a donor is a U.S. citizen.
«On September 11, 2026, you provided a briefing to the House Administration, Judiciary, and Oversight and Government Reform Committees regarding the accuracy of ActBlue CEO Regina Wallace-Jones’s prior statements to Congress about ActBlue’s donor and passport collection processes,» the letter said.
«Your review appears to be nothing more than an after-the-fact sugarcoating of ActBlue’s misconduct and Ms. Wallace-Jones’s misrepresentations to the House Administration Committee.»
ANOTHER ACTBLUE LEADER PLEADS FIFTH AS HOUSE INVESTIGATES ALLEGED FOREIGN DONATIONS
The letter was sent by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, Committee on House Administration Chairman Bryan Steil, R-Wis., and House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., who lead the panels probing ActBlue.
ACTBLUE CO-FOUNDER PLEADS FIFTH AMENDMENT IN CLOSED-DOOR HOUSE GOP GRILLING
ActBlue is a massive platform for campaigns to raise money that’s used by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed and the Democratic leaders of the House and Senate, among others.
Republican lawmakers have long accused the company of having lax verification standards for donors, something ActBlue has said it actively improved since the start of the GOP’s probe. But a new report released earlier this month, first reported by Digital, appears to show employees green-lighting donations despite some questions about where they came from.
FAR-LEFT POLITICIANS STILL USING ACTBLUE AS 88-YEAR-OLD DISPUTES DONATING NEARLY $150,000 TO FUNDRAISING GIANT
Chief among the GOP’s concerns is ActBlue’s passport number verification. According to the report, the field only requires the correct number of characters for a U.S. passport number rather than a valid code for a donation to be accepted.
The Monday letter also points to a 2024 «contemporaneous review by ActBlue’s then-outside counsel, former Biden White House Counsel Dana Remus» which allegedly found «‘a substantial risk that some of the funds’ raised for Democrat campaigns and causes by ActBlue ‘were impermissible contributions from foreign nationals.’»
Remus’ review further found that «passport checks did not always happen» and were «never conducted» when donations were made using third-party fiscal platforms like Apple Pay or PayPal, the letter said.
The Republican chairs said Machen’s prior comments to Congress «conceded that your ‘forensic’ review found that ActBlue processed and accepted donations with foreign indicators even though ActBlue failed to identify a ‘passport number’ or ‘other indicia of eligibility’ for the donor.
HOUSE DEM LASHES OUT AT GOP EFFORTS TO PROBE FOREIGN DONATIONS WITH STUNNING CLAIM ON MOTIVE
«Nonetheless, you defended Ms. Wallace-Jones’s representations to Congress by arguing that ActBlue’s compliance and vetting policy was ‘as close to 100 percent as it could be,’» the letter said.
«Documents produced to the Committees undercut your assertion. These documents demonstrate that if a donor did not have a U.S. passport or a U.S. address, an ActBlue employee retained the ability to determine an ‘alternative method of verifying the [donor’s] citizenship.’ This means an ActBlue employee could put ‘a placeholder,’ including ‘ACTBLUEXX,’ ‘in the passport number field of [the donor’s] ActBlue account.’ The placeholder allows ActBlue to accept all subsequent contributions from the donor without requiring a U.S. passport number.»
ACTBLUE SCRUTINY FUELS NEW GOP BILLS TO TIGHTEN ELECTION DONATION RULES
The letter said Machen’s review was also limited to 2023, arguing it left out potentially valuable information about 2024.
«As such, the review did not accurately represent the totality of ActBlue’s foreign donation vetting and donor outreach practices during the 2024 election cycle. In fact, documents produced to the Committees show that ActBlue relaxed its vetting practices twice in 2024—data that your narrow ‘forensic’ review did not capture,» the letter said.
ACTBLUE SUES TEXAS AG KEN PAXTON, ALLEGING POLITICAL RETALIATION OVER DEMOCRATS’ FUNDRAISING
It also charged that he disputed Remus’ analysis without going into detail on how he established his own findings.
ActBlue has consistently denied any wrongdoing and dismissed Republicans’ most recent findings in a statement to Digital.
«There’s nothing to see here. After we released findings of a third-party forensic analysis that completely undermined a central claim that they have made against ActBlue, Republicans are refusing to move on,» ActBlue said. «Instead, they are orchestrating another political stunt before rushing out of town weeks early to go campaign. This coordinated campaign against ActBlue isn’t about the facts, or legislating, it’s about Republicans’ efforts to silence organizations they believe threaten their agenda.»
A closed-door interview summons is not the same as a subpoena, which is a legally binding order.
politics, investigations, house of representatives, controversies state and local
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Russia’s Ambassador to the United States Alexander Darchiev, 66, died suddenly Wednesday, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced.
«The leadership and staff of the Russian Foreign Ministry report with deep sorrow that on Nov. 11, at the age of 66, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the United States of America, Alexander Nikitich Darchiev, passed away suddenly,» Russia’s statement, as translated to English, said. «A distinguished diplomat, experienced leader, kind colleague, and mentor has departed this life. A consummate professional and brilliant Americanist, A.N. Darchiev served on one of the most critical and demanding fronts of Russian foreign policy.»
«We express our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Alexander Nikitich Darchiev,» the statement added. «The cherished memory of our untimely departed colleague will forever remain in our hearts.»
Fox News confirmed the death came in Russia and not the U.S.
MELANIA TRUMP HAILS OLESHKY CEASEFIRE AS POTENTIAL ‘SPARK’ FOR PROGRESS AMID UKRAINE-RUSSIA WAR
Alexander Darchiyev, head of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s North America Department and a candidate for the position of ambassador to the United States, poses for a picture before a session of the Federation Council’s committee on foreign affairs in Moscow, Russia, on Nov. 25, 2024. (Kommersant Photo/Dmitry Dukhanin via Reuters)
Russia’s Vladimir Putin appointed Darchiev, a veteran diplomat known in the past for his public denunciations of the West, as ambassador to Washington in March 2025 to lead a rapprochement with the Trump administration that has rattled Ukraine, the European Union and NATO.
His death comes less than a week after a White House news conference hailing a temporary ceasefire in Ukrainian territory occupied by Russia.
First lady Melania Trump and envoys from both Russia and Ukraine hailed the ceasefire in the Oleshky region.
«We have chosen humanity over war,» the first lady said. «Undeniably, the lives of innocent people must transcend the division of war. I hope Oleshky inspires greater peace. Every significant transformation begins with a small spark.»
KUSHNER ENTERS UKRAINE PEACE TALKS AS TRUMP EYES SECURING SAFEGUARDS AGAINST ANOTHER RUSSIAN INVASION
Shortly after being tapped as ambassador, Darchiev met with Trump administration officials and delivered a message of hope for peace.
«Russia and the United States are destined, as great powers, to have non-confrontational peaceful existence,» Darchiev said during a June 10, 2025, Russia Day reception at the Russian Embassy in Washington after delivering his credentials to the White House, adding, «our discussion was very constructive.»
Before taking the helm of the Russian Embassy in Washington, Darchiev played a role as the Kremlin’s point man for high-stakes bilateral negotiations, most notably during the delicate discussions that led to prisoner swaps involving imprisoned arms dealer Viktor Bout and detained Americans Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan.
EVAN GERSHKOVICH DETAILS RUSSIAN ARREST, REVEALS MOMENT THAT NEARLY BROKE HIM DURING WRONGFUL DETENTION
In August 2022, while serving as the director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s North American Department, Darchiev provided the first on-the-record Russian confirmation that Moscow and Washington were actively discussing those situations.
«This quite sensitive issue of the swap of convicted Russian and U.S. citizens is being pursued along the channels designated by our presidents,» Darchiev told the Russian state news agency TASS. «The individuals are, indeed, being discussed. The Russian side has long been seeking the release of Viktor Bout. The negotiations are bearing fruit.»
An empty table for the Russian Ambassador to the United States Alexander Darchiev is visible during a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on «The Abduction of Ukrainian Children by the Russian Federation» on Capitol Hill on December 3, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
His comments marked a breakthrough moment in months of backchannel diplomacy, which ultimately culminated in December 2022 when the U.S. and Russia completed a one-for-one swap of Griner for Bout at an airport in Abu Dhabi.
Fox News’ Gillian Turner, The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.
russia, foreign affairs, foreign policy, donald trump, vladimir putin, world, politics
INTERNACIONAL
GOP congressman-elect makes unusual Trump request, ejects reporter during profanity-laced victory speech
Anthony Constantino, a former boxer and the CEO of the printing company Sticker Mule, delivered a profanity-laden victory speech after his election to New York’s 21st Congressional District, kicking a reporter out of the room and calling on President Donald Trump to pardon Sean «Diddy» Combs.
«I think President Trump should consider freeing Diddy,» Constantino said, referring to the incarcerated producer.
«A historic New Yorker that did great things for New York State. I think we should consider it.»
Constantino’s brazen speech contrasts sharply with the demeanor of the district’s outgoing incumbent, Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., the former No. 3 Republican in the House of Representatives. It also raises questions about whether Constantino earnestly hopes to see the administration pardon Combs, who was convicted of prostitution across state lines.
DIDDY’S FEDERAL PRISON RELEASE DELAYED WEEKS AFTER REPORTED SOLITARY CONFINEMENT STINT
«Where’s my lawyer at? I have a very good lawyer. Listen, I’m fighting for New York. I want to bring excitement back to New York. I want to bring jobs back to New York,» Constantino said moments before his request.
During his 31-minute speech, Constantino spoke about political allies, enemies, the media, power struggles and his vision for the country. He even had a rapper friend perform a freestyle tribute to his congressional election.
At points, Constantino adopted an openly combative tone — especially with respect to members of the press.
«Listen to me, scumbags. Telling people the truth is the right thing to do. I had to listen to you a–holes say ‘dairy farmer Blake Gendebien,’» Constantino said, referring to news coverage of his Democratic challenger.
«He’s not a dairy farmer; his parents were dairy farmers … but you wouldn’t say that because you’re a bunch of f—ing a–holes,» he added.
At one point, Constantino singled out a pair of reporters in the crowd.
«Look at that a–hole right there. Him. Look at that guy. Take a picture of him … and Kay Lisa, another f—ing a–hole.»
Constantino then ordered one of the reporters removed from the room, describing him as an «angry motherf—er.»
ANTIFA SUPPORTER CHARGED WITH STEALING GOP CAMPAIGN SIGNS IN NY RACE TO REPLACE STEFANIK
«Actually, do me a favor. This guy is so — he’s looking at me. Kick him out. Just kick him out. Get him out of here. You’re just a rude person. If you want to be tough on me, get out. Go right now. I’m not playing games with you. You deleted two of my interviews … bye bye,» Constantino said.
Stefanik, a former GOP conference chair and Trump’s first pick to become U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, was considered by many a rising star within the Republican Party.
Although Stefanik began the confirmation process for the nomination, Trump ultimately rescinded his pick, calling on Stefanik to remain in the House, where Republicans held a razor-thin majority. A few months later, Stefanik announced that she would not pursue reelection or a bid for governor, citing a desire to focus on her family and avoid a primary contest.
Notably, Stefanik endorsed Constantino after the GOP primary for New York’s 21st Congressional District.
«In the coming months, I know Anthony will continue to work hard to earn your support. He will put the people first and will be a strong representative in Washington for the incredible hardworking families in our great district,» Stefanik said in a post to social media.
Constantino also secured backing from President Donald Trump.
Constantino made headlines in 2024 when he put up a giant 100-foot «VOTE FOR TRUMP» sign atop his company building.
City officials, including Democratic Mayor Michael Cinquanti, argued the sign violated code because it «presents a dangerous distraction and impacts traffic flow,» especially at night when it is illuminated.
After a legal battle, courts ruled that Constantino had a right to keep the sign in place, a decision he called an «epic win for free speech.»
JOHN RICH SAYS KATHY HOCHUL IS ‘RUNNING OVER’ NY FARMERS WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY AGENDA
Last Tuesday, Constantino narrowly won his race in a 50.9% to 48.8% victory over Gendebien.
During his campaign, Constantino stressed his alignment with Trump, highlighting his record as a business owner, promised to bring reliable cell phone service to northern New York and reduce utility costs, according to his website.
Having secured his congressional race, Constantino will be sworn into office on Jan. 3, 2027, alongside the rest of the 120th Congress.
politics, donald trump, sean diddy combs, republicans
INTERNACIONAL
Tensión en Europa: alrededor de 6000 escuelas recibieron amenazas de bomba en Italia y hubo evacuaciones de emergencia en Escocia
Alrededor de 6000 escuelas recibieron este miércoles amenazas de bomba en Italia, en una nueva ola de alertas en países europeos que también golpeó al Reino Unido e Irlanda.
La primera ministra, Giorgia Meloni, descartó que representen un “peligro en concreto”.
Advertencias similares se registraron en escuelas del Reino Unido e Irlanda. Según la prensa local, hubo algunas evacuaciones en Escocia.
Unas 6000 escuelas recibieron advertencias, informó el Ministerio de Educación italiano citado por la agencia de noticias italiana ANSA, reportó AFP. Por el momento no está claro cuántas escuelas evacuaron a sus alumnos.
“El director salió al patio y nos dijo que había llegado un correo electrónico con una amenaza de bomba, y, justo después, el edificio fue evacuado”, dijo Sofía De Ponte, una estudiante de 19 años del liceo Virgilio de Roma.
También en las últimas semanas se registraron falsas alertas de bomba en vuelos por toda Europa, y ciberataques contra los sistemas de refrigeración de supermercados en varios países europeos, entre ellos Italia.
Los ataques provocaron una creciente preocupación en Europa por la posibilidad de una escalada de la llamada guerra híbrida, una estrategia que combina el uso de la fuerza tradicional con tácticas no convencionales de desestabilización.
El gobierno italiano pide evitar el pánico
La primera ministra afirmó que había convocado a una reunión con los responsables de seguridad e inteligencia para analizar la situación.
Según medios italianos, el ministro de Educación, Giuseppe Valditara, señaló que 312 escuelas habían recibido alertas y pidió a la población que no cayera en el pánico. Varios alumnos del liceo Virgilio de la capital explicaron que ni siquiera tuvieron tiempo de recoger sus pertenencias tras recibir el aviso.
La policía aún no había llegado a la escuela porque “hay una lista de espera muy larga” de instituciones que deben ser inspeccionadas, explicó De Ponte. “Seguimos aquí esperando”, señaló su compañera Elena Sicignano, de 19 años.
Violetta Uboldi, profesora de arte en la escuela Brera de Milán, dijo que los niños celebraron el fin anticipado de la jornada.
Según los medios italianos, la amenaza de bomba llegó en un correo electrónico supuestamente enviado por un tal “Mikhail Andropov, líder del Vilayat de Misoginistán”.
“Acabo de dejar en su edificio, dentro de una bolsa de plástico, un potente explosivo con detonación a distancia”, decía el correo. La semana pasada, una serie de falsas amenazas de bomba contra vuelos comerciales y también contra algunos medios de comunicación sacudió a varios países europeos.
Daños y perturbaciones
El gobierno italiano trató de restar importancia a las amenazas.
“Por el momento, conforme las verificaciones realizadas, no hay ningún indicio que sugiera que exista un peligro concreto”, declaró Meloni en una publicación en Facebook.
Los avisos de bomba parecen, más bien, “estar vinculados a una estrategia destinada a generar alarma y preocupación, la cual es actualmente objeto de todas las investigaciones exhaustivas necesarias”, señaló Meloni.
bomba
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