Industry News

“The World of Phil Hendrie” Joins iHeartPodcasts

Premiere Networks and radio & podcast personality, writer and actor Phil Hendrie announce a partnership to bring the long-running podcast, “The World of Phil Hendrie,” to iHeartPodcasts. The 30-minute program will continue to be available Monday through Friday on iHeartRadio. “I’m just so excited to be reunited with Premiere and Julie Talbott. Even Bobby Dooley is happy! I’m excited to work with the incredible team at iHeartPodcasts and bring our unique world to an even wider audience.”

Industry News

WSSP, Milwaukee Announces New Local Shows

Audacy’s sports talk WSSP/WXSS-HD2, Milwaukee “The Fan” is announcing a new program lineup full of local shows. The new lineup includes Trevor Thomas and Josh Albrecht co-hosting “Inside Wisconsinimg Sports” from 6:00 am to 9:00 am, “Nine2Noon” hosted by John  Kuhn and Ramie Makhlouf, “The Mason Crosby Show” with Mitch Thunder Nelles from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm, and “Wisconsin Sports Daily,” hosted Steve “Sparky” Fifer remaining in PM drive. Audacy Wisconsin SVP Jason Bjorson says, “As we celebrate the station’s 20th anniversary, we wanted to match our listeners’ passion by assembling the dream team here at ‘The Fan.’ With legendary names and two former Green Bay Packers players on our roster, we are going full-throttle. We’re excited to bring our fans the best talent in the market and give them the most entertaining sports coverage Wisconsin has to offer.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (9/17)

The most discussed stories yesterday (9/17) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. ABC Suspends Kimmel Show
2. Politicians’ & Media Personalities’ Safety Fears
3. Fed Cuts Interest Rates by a Quarter Percent
4. Trump Visits the UK
5. Israel’s Gaza City Takeover

Industry News Sarugami

Glenn Beck to Host Charlie Kirk Show Today

Premiere Networks nationally syndicated talk host Glenn Beck will host “The Charlie Kirk Show” on the Salem Radio Network today (9/17). According to SRN, Turning Point USA arranged for Glenn Beck to act asimg guest host because he specifically asked for the honor, so he can share his thoughts and remembrances on the passing of his personal friend.  SRN adds, “We have received permission from Premiere Networks to allow Glenn to do this, even though he may be on a competing station in some radio markets.  This is one of those rare times where competitors unite for the common good. We wanted our stations to know this special broadcast has been approved. It promises to be memorable radio.” SRN says other major stars will fill in during the coming days. Vice President JD Vance guest-hosted live from The White House on Monday and Tuesday’s show was hosted by Matt Walsh, Michael Knowles and Ben Shapiro.

Industry News Sarugami

AM/FM Audiences Trending Up

This week’s Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group blog reports on data from Nielsen’s national audience service called “Nielsen Nationwide,” in which it released the Spring 2025 (April-May-June) Nationwide study of total listening in the United States. Nielsen Nationwide aggregates listening from all counties including all Portable People Meter markets and all diary markets and the Spring study concludesimg that listening has grown across all demographics and time periods versus the Fall 2024 Nationwide report. Some key takeaways are: 1) Among persons 25-54, total U.S. AM/FM radio AQH has grown +6%, powered by a +19% increase in the Portable People Meter markets; 2) Weekends and nights have the greatest growth compared to Fall 2024; 3) Versus Fall 2024, Spring 2025 total U.S. audience growth is greater among men versus women and has increased in older demographics; and 4) Total U.S. Spring 2025 audience growth is up significantly among college graduates and upscale $75K+ income Americans. The blog post notes that the PPM audience growth is due to Nielsen’s three-minute qualifier modernization, which provides a significantly more comprehensive and realistic definition of AM/FM radio’s audience and their listening behavior. Nielsen found 23% of PPM listening occasions were three or four minutes. Under the old five-minute listening qualifier rule, none of this tuning would have received listening credit. Effective with the January 2025 PPM survey, Nielsen began crediting tuning occasions that are three minutes or greater. See the full blog post here.

Industry News

Legendary WISM, Madison Jocks Hold Reunion

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On September 12, WISM, Madison, Wisconsin alumni and friends of WISM gathered for a reunion to remember the legendary CHR outlet. Organizers say that at each reunion they present a roundtable discussion and this year’s topics were: 1) How and when did you get into radio?; 2) Who opened doors for you and who were your mentors?; and 3) What are you listening to today? Pictured above are (from l-r): Bob Lewin, Tara Icke, Pat Martin, Len Mattioli, Mike Major, Wayne Wallace, Dale Ganske, Pat O’Neill, Ted Waldbillig, Tony Waitekus, Kipper McGee, Jonathan Little, and Rockin’ Robb Steele.

Industry News

Skyview Networks Promotes Two

Skyview Networks promotes Kristin Krahl and Howard Davis to the new roles of vice president, revenue and performance strategy. Skyview says this announcement reflects the evolving structure of their sales organization. “Kristin, Howard and Patrick Cannon, SVP, sales operations, will help guide our sales team as a unified leadership group. Patrick has been a steady hand throughout this period of transition, providing consistent support and leadership toward our goals. Together, the three will continue to shape our strategy, execution, and performance across the sales organization.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (9/16)

The most discussed stories yesterday (9/16) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Kirk Slaying Aftermath / Patel Testimony
2. The Economy / Tariffs / Fed Rate Cut
3. Trump Sues NYTimes
4. Trump UK Trip
5. Robert Redford Dies

Industry News

iHeartMedia Promotes Doers to Area President

iHeartMedia promotes Dee (Devon) Doers to area president for the company’s MidNorth Area that includes Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin, effective immediately. In this role, Doers will oversee operationsimg across key iHeartMedia markets including: Rochester, Minnesota; Bismarck, Minot, Dickinson, and Grand Forks in North Dakota; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin. iHeartMedia division president Shosh Abromovich says, “I’m thrilled to welcome Dee Doers as Area President over our six MidNorth markets. With nearly three decades of industry experience, Dee brings strategic vision and a proven track record of driving growth. He’s the ideal leader to take these markets to even greater heights.” Doers previously served the company’s Minneapolis market as vice president of sales.

Industry News

Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Celebrate Four Years on WOR

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Pictured above are Premiere Networks nationally syndicated personalities Clay Travis (left) and Buck Sexton (right) celebrating four years together as a radio team at their flagship station, WOR, New York with WOR’s midday personality Mark Simone (center).

Industry News

10th Music Industry Reunion “The Best Ever!”

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Last Wednesday’s 10th Annual Music Industry Reunion in Calabasas, California brought together more than 170 of the industry’s finest, according to organizers Jon Scott and Kenny Ryback, making it the “best ever.” The gathering saw radio, record, artists, managers, producers, lawyers, legends and pros flock to the Sagebrush Cantina. Scott and Ryback say, “While mini-reunions of KLOS, KTYD, KROQ, TEN-Q and other radio stations flourished, clans from A&M, MCA, WB, EMI/Capitol Records, Casablanca Records and other labels met up and swapped war stories from ‘back in the day.’ They are thankful to sponsors Technotainment, Rockaway Records, and The Hollywood Show for their support.

Industry News

Audacy and Southern Cross Austereo Announce Content Deal

Audacy and Australian broadcasting company Southern Cross Austereo enter into an agreement for Audacy’s library of digital content to be available on the LiSTNR digital audio platform and for SCA to be theimg exclusive sales rep for the Australian market. With this deal, Australian advertisers will be able to access Audacy’s titles as part of their audio campaigns. The partnership broadens the breadth of available content for LiSTNR audiences and increases the reach for clients, with access to a range of titles including “Office Ladies with Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsley,” “Fly on the Wall with David Spade and Dana Carvey,” “Search Engine,” “The Moth” and dozens of podcasts from CBS Sports and CBS News & Entertainment.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (9/15)

The most discussed stories yesterday (9/15) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Kirk Slaying Aftermath / Vance Threaten Left-Wing Organizations
2. ICE Raids / Guard to Memphis
3. The Economy / Tariffs / Fed Rate Cut
4. Israel Begins Gaza City Takeover
5. U.S. Hits Venezuelan Drug Boat

Industry News

JD Vance to Host Today’s Charlie Kirk Show

imgSalem Media Group announces that to honor Salem Radio Network talk host Charlie Kirk, Vice President JD Vance is guest hosting “The Charlie Kirk Show” today (9/15) at 12:00 noon ET. This special broadcast live from The White House will air on the Salem Radio Network and will be simulcast on Salem News Channel. Vice President Vance tweeted on Sunday, “I will have the honor of hosting the Charlie Kirk Show. Please join me as I pay tribute to my friend.” Salem Radio Network VP/news & talk programming Tom Tradup says, “The Vice President and Second Lady Usha Vance flew to Phoenix to be with the Kirk family immediately following last Wednesday’s assassination, and they also flew Charlie’s coffin home from Utah on Air Force Two.”

Industry News

“The Fan” and Jomboy Media Partner for Yankees Show

imgAudacy’s WFAN, New York enters into a strategic partnership with creator-led digital sports media company Jomboy Media to air the “Talkin’ Yanks” show each Saturday at 2:00 pm ET. Audacy chief business officerand New York market president Chris Oliviero says, “WFAN and Jomboy Media both are committed to bringing Yankees fans the most relevant and engaging content of their favorite team whenever and wherever they want to consume it. Together, the combined influence and reach of both brands will elevate the experience for the pinstripe faithful and shine an even greater spotlight on New York’s all-time pastime, baseball.”

Industry News

Saga Adds George Plaster to “ESPN Clarksville” Lineup

imgThe Nashville-based “George Plaster Show,” with co-hosts Kelly Holcomb and Billy Derrick, is now heard on Saga Communications’ sports talk WKFN-AM/W281BT in Clarksville, Tennessee. Clarksville Now reportsPlaster said he’s excited for the opportunity to be here and tap into a new market of sports fans. “I’m very excited about being in Clarksville. For me, this is about adding listeners – listeners who knew me from years ago. I think we’re going to do really well here, it’s a market that has a lot of sports fans, and we just simply want to tap into it.” “The George Plaster Show” will air live from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. Read the Clarksville Nowstory here.

Industry News

Penn State to Shutter Non-Com WPSU-FM

According to a report at TribLive.com, Penn State will shut down its public radio station, WPSU-FM at the end of the 2025-26 academic year. The report says trustees voted against a proposal to transfer its operating assets to public radio WHYY-FM, Philadelphia. WPSU has depended on annual subsidies of atimg least $3.4 million from the university to operate the station. TribLive reports, “Penn State officials said they proposed transferring the operating assets of WPSU to WHYY and provide a $17 million subsidy structured to decrease over five years, to give WHYY an opportunity to help WPSU reach a financial break-even point and continue broadcasting across central Pennsylvania.” That proposal was not accepted by the trustees. See the TribLive story here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (9/13-14)

The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Kirk Slaying Aftermath
2. The Economy / Tariffs / Fed Rate Cut
3. Russia Incursions into NATO Airspace
4. ICE Raids / Guard to Memphis
5. The Emmy Awards

Industry News

RTDNA: Attacks on Newsrooms Up in 2024

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Data from the latest Safety Report from the RTDNA and Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Communications, indicates attacks on TV and radio newsrooms increased from 2023 to 2024. The RTDNA says, “The percentage of TV newsrooms experiencing attacks on employees increased four and a half points, but that’s a 50% increase over last year. And those attacks have spread, with markets 1 through 25, 26 through 50, and 51 through 100 all reporting over 15% experiencing attacks. Not surprisingly, the level of attacks at radio stations and on radio news people is much lower. Only 2.7% of radio news directors and general managers reported attacks on newsroom employees. That’s up from a year ago, but only by 0.5. Like last year, market size wasn’t an indicator of safety, but also like last year, major market news directors and general managers reported the most attacks (10.2%), and over five times as many non-commercial reported attacks as commercial newsrooms. There continue to be more attacks in the Northeast than elsewhere.” See more about the report here.

Industry News

FOX News to Present Charlie Kirk Tribute

img FOX News Channel presenting a primetime special titled, “Charlie Kirk: An American Original,” hosted by FOX News Channel’s Jesse Watters tomorrow at 7:00 pm ET with an encore presentation on Sunday (9/14) at 7:00 pm ET. FOX News says Watters “will reflect on Kirk’s extraordinary impact as a conservative thought leader, gifted communicator, and a monumental force for the MAGA movement.” Kirk colleagues and friends being featured include: Donald Trump Jr., “My View” host Lara Trump, Graham Allen, and Pastor Jack Hibbs. In addition, FNC personalities Will Cain, Laura Ingraham, Brian Kilmeade, Ainsley Earhardt and Lawrence Jones will reflect on Kirk’s impact.

Industry News

Bruce DuMont Dies at 81

imgBruce DuMont, the Illinois broadcaster and founder of the Museum of Broadcast Communications, has died at age 81. CBS News reports he passed away on Wednesday (9/10). DuMont worked in both television and radio during as career, including as the original producer of the WGN radio show “Extension 720” beginning in 1968. Later he created the political radio program Beyond the Beltway that was syndicated across the country for years. DuMont set about his goal developing the Museum of Broadcast Communications in 1982 and saw his dream realized when the museum opened in 1987 in Chicago. See the CBS News story here.

Industry News

95.5 WSB Adds “Coast to Coast AM”

imgCox Media Group’s Atlanta news/talk 95.5 WSB (WSB-AM/WSBB-FM) is adding Premiere Networks’ “Coast to Coast AM” hosted by George Noory to its program schedule. WSB director of branding and programming Ken Charles says, “We’re thrilled Coast to Coast AM with George Noory is joining the 95.5 WSB-AM lineup. George’s unique voice and compelling content are a perfect overnight fit for our listeners. This is a powerful addition to our lineup of live and local talent.”

Industry News

Radio Hall of Fame Announces “Legends” Inductees

imgThe Museum of Broadcast Communications announces the selection of eight new Legends inductees into the Radio Hall of Fame for 2025, recognizing radio broadcasters who have passed away. This year’s inductees include longtime WLS-AM, Chicago morning drive cohost Don Wade and nationally syndicated host Dale Sommers “The Truckin’ Bozo.”  Radio Hall of Fame co-chair Kraig Kitchin comments, “Each of these individuals contributed to the growth and vibrance of our radio industry and are worthy of induction. I’m thrilled to see recognition for their talents and efforts and heartened that their family, friends and colleagues can witness this well-deserved honor.” See the full slate of inductees here.

Industry News

BFoA Holds Annual Celebrity Golf Tourney

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The Broadcasters Foundation of America held its 2025 Celebrity Golf Tournament earlier this week, raising much-needed funds that will go to helping anyone in broadcasting who has been impacted by critical illness or disaster and who qualifies for aid. BFoA says broadcasters from CBS/Paramount, Audacy, Gabelli Investments, Katz, Good Karma, NBC, Fox, Disney, and more rallied in support of the BFOA’s mission. The event was held at the Arcola Country Club in Paramus, New Jersey. For information about the Broadcasters Foundation, including how to make a donation or apply for aid, please visit www.broadcastersfoundation.org, or contact the BFOA at 212-373-8250, or info@thebfoa.org.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (September 8-12, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (9/8-12) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

               Stories

1. Charlie Kirk Assassination
2. ICE Raids / Guard to Chicago Threats
3. SCOTUS ICE Ruling
4. The Epstein Files
5. The Economy
6. Lisa Cook Ruling
7. GA Hyundai Plant Raid / U.S.-South Korea Relations
8. Poland Intercepts Russian Drones
9. Israel Attacks Hamas in Qatar
10.France’s Government Implodes

              People

1. Donald Trump
2. Charlie Kirk
3. JB Pritzker / Brandon Johnson
4. Jeffrey Epstein
5. Scott Bessent
6. Jerome Powell / Lisa Cook
7. Lee Jae Myung
8. Vladimir Putin
9. Benjamin Netanyahu
10.Emmanuel Macron

To see the full TALKERS Stories, Topics, and People Charts, please click HERE.

Industry News

Salem Issues Statements on Charlie Kirk’s Slaying

In the hours after media personality, political activist, and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was killed during a speaking event at Utah Valley University, Salem Media Group issued a number of statements from its executives. The company called Kirk’s killing “a cowardly and vile act of violence, carried out to silence one of America’s boldest Christian conservative voices. Our hearts are shattered for Charlie’s wife, family, friends, colleagues,img and the countless people whose lives he touched through his words, his work, and his unwavering commitment to faith and country.” Salem CEO David Santrella is quoted saying, “Charlie was more than a broadcaster – he was a fearless defender of truth and a faithful servant of God. This assassination was not just an attack on Charlie, it was an attack on free speech and on the values Charlie championed every day. His absence leaves a tremendous void, but his legacy of faith, courage, and conviction will continue to inspire generations.” Salem Media chief strategy officer Bradley Parscale stated, “I have had the privilege of working with Charlie for nearly a decade. He was part of the Salem family. His voice was fearless, unyielding, and relentless in the defense of faith and freedom. This heinous act of evil was meant to silence him, but as Christians, we know darkness cannot overcome the light. Charlie’s influence cannot and will not be silenced.” The company added, “Charlie’s partnership with Salem Media was defined by his uncompromising defense of biblical values, liberty, and truth. Through his nationally syndicated show and podcast, he reached millions who relied on his voice to cut through lies, honor truth, and give courage to those fighting for faith and freedom.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took the time to issue a statement on Kirk’s death, saying, “Charlie Kirk was murdered for speaking truth and defending freedom. A lion-hearted friend of Israel, he fought the lies and stood tall for Judeo-Christian civilization. I spoke to him only two weeks ago and invited him to Israel. Sadly, that visit will not take place. We lost an incredible human being. His boundless pride in America and his valiant belief in free speech will leave a lasting impact. Rest in peace, Charlie Kirk.”

Salem is also announcing that today (9/11) it will broadcast a special two-hour tribute to Charlie Kirk in what was his 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm ET daypart. The program will be co-hosted by Kirk’s colleagues, SRN host Mike Gallagher and KSKY-AM, Dallas “660AM The ANSWER” talk radio host Mark Davis.

Industry News

Powerful Archival Interview with Charlie Kirk Posted

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A rare audio interview with fallen talk show host and conservative thought leader Charlie Kirk has been posted to the TALKERS Media YouTube Channel.  Hosted by Michael Harrison, the half hour conversation was conducted with the then 26-year-old communicator on October 10, 2020 – just days after he was named by the Salem Radio Network as part of its daily power-packed line up of syndicated hosts. The discussion – retrieved from the extensive TALKERS archives – covers Kirk’s life and philosophy all the way from childhood to his co-founding of Turning Point USA to emerging as a major American political influencer and close friend/ally of President Donald Trump.  To quote TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, “This remarkable interview is a definitive collection of information pertaining to the life, ideas, and work of Charlie Kirk, presented in his own words. Not to be missed!” To listen to the interview in its entirety, please click here.

Industry News

New York Festivals Opens 2026 Radio Awards for Entries

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The New York Festivals 2026 Radio Awards is open for entries. In announcing this, the organization says, “The New York Festivals Radio Awards provides a global platform to honor creative storytellers. Since 1957, NYF has celebrated innovation and excellence in audio across every genre and platform. Each year, the competition evolves with new categories that reflect the future of audio-driven storytelling.” The 2026 Radio Awards welcomes entries across 14 category groups, from News Programs, Documentaries, and Talk Programs to On-Air Talent, Craft, and Entertainment. Specialized groups spotlight groundbreaking work in Digital, Podcast, and Audio Book content, while Programming Formats and Promotion/Open & ID celebrate the creative standards of radio. This year, the Radio Awards expands its reach with the introduction of the new Video Podcast category, reflecting the growing role of visual storytelling in audio-driven media. New York Festivals Radio Awards EVP and executive director Rose Anderson states, “For nearly seven decades, NYF’s Radio Awards has championed the art of storytelling across every platform. Each year we’re inspired by the creativity and innovation that push audio forward, and with the addition of new categories like Video Podcast, we’re proud to continue celebrating the evolving ways storytellers connect with audiences worldwide.” Through its partnership with the National Press Club, New York Festivals honors audio journalists and reporters who use their craft to shine a light on the stories that matter most. Since its inception in 2023, the National Press Club Award has honored the top-scoring news program across the Breaking News Story Coverage, Continuing News Story Coverage, Nonfiction Series, and News Podcast categories. See 2026’s NYF Radio Awards categories here.

Industry News

Civic Media to Acquire Milwaukee Signals

Wisconsin broadcasting company Civic Media signs a deal to acquire WZTI-AM, Greenfield and FM translators W262CJ, Milwaukee and W297BY, Franklin from Milwaukee Radio Alliance LLC. The signals had been broadcasting an oldies format until recent flooding the area knocked WZTI off the air. Civic Mediaimg intends to have the station back on the air within a few weeks and it will continue to air an oldies format. Civic Media will add W262CJ at 100.3 FM to the simulcast of talk WAUK-AM, Waukesha which is also heard on W266DR, Waukesha at 101.1 FM. The 100.3 FM signal gives the station a presence in the center of Milwaukee. Civic Media regional president Chris Moreau says, “We’re thrilled to expand our presence in Milwaukee, our largest metro market. These acquisitions allow us to better serve listeners across southeastern Wisconsin with our commitment to local news coverage and quality programming. The extended coverage area creates exciting opportunities for both our audience and advertising partners.”

Industry News

Paul Gallant and Joel Blank Exit KFNC-FM, Houston

imgSports talk hosts Paul Gallant and Joel Blank have exited Gow Media’s KFNC-FM, Houston ESPN 97.5 in moves they describe as budget related. Both personalities posted the news of their departure to social media. Gallant hosted the early evening show and Blank co-hosted the “Killer B’s” midday show with Jeremy Branham.

Industry News

Audio Tribute Memorializing 9/11 Available to TALKERS Subscribers

The 24th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in New York City takes place today. The day – in what has become a historic tradition – will be commemorated by a wide variety of solemn events across the nation.  TALKERS is once again making a special four-minute and eleven-second audio file titled, “Reflections on 9/11,” to its readers and subscribers for on-air, online, or personal use at no cost. Originally produced in 2023 as an audio podcast for Podjockey.com, the emotionally powerful and touching piece was written and delivered by longtime talk media host, commentator and director of the Good For You Network (www.goodforyounetwork.comClaire Carter (a.k.a. C.C. Carter). It also features an original musical backdrop scored and performed by the renowned pop music ensemble Gunhill Road whose “songs with a message” are often played on talk radio. Carter says, “Two months after 9/11, I went down to the World Trade Center site to pay my respects. I walked over to the makeshift ‘Teddy Bear’ memorial site, where people had spontaneously left notes and cards – and teddy bears. I wanted to write down some of what was left, because it was meant to be heard. I wanted to give voice to peoples’ hearts and heartache. And so, I ask you to listen to the raw emotions emanating from their hearts.” To download “Reflections on 9/11” by C.C. Carter and Gunhill Road, please click here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (9/10)

The most discussed stories yesterday (9/10) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Charlie Kirk Assassination
2. ICE & Guard Troops in Chicago
3. Harris’ Criticism of Biden
4. Poland Downs Russian Drones
5. The Epstein Files