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Powerball Winning Numbers for Oct. 19: Did Anyone Win the $607 Million Jackpot?

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A $607 million Powerball jackpot was on the line in Monday night’s drawing. Here are the numbers players should check against their tickets.

It’s time to take another look at those tickets.

The estimated Powerball jackpot for Monday’s drawing stood at $607 million, with a projected lump-sum cash value of $255.7 million before taxes.

Powerball winning numbers for Oct. 19, 2026

Monday’s winning numbers were 8, 31, 32, 42 and 48. The Powerball was 23, and the Power Play multiplier was 4x.

Because no ticket matched all six numbers, the jackpot will rise to an estimated $635 million. One player in Michigan matched all five white-ball numbers to win $1 million.

When are Powerball drawings and how much do tickets cost?

Powerball drawings take place three times each week—Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. The numbers are broadcast live at about 10:59 p.m. Eastern time, or 7:59 p.m. Pacific. Ticket sales generally close roughly one hour before the drawing, although cutoff times vary by state.

A Powerball ticket costs $2 per play. Players select five numbers from 1 through 69 and one Powerball number from 1 through 26, or they can choose a computer-generated Quick Pick.

For an additional $1 per play, players can add Power Play, which increases non-jackpot prizes by 2, 3, 4, 5 or 10 times, depending on the multiplier drawn. Powerball is available in 45 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom.

The 10 largest U.S. jackpots won: 

  1. $2.04 billion – Powerball – Nov. 7, 2022 – California
  2. $1.817 billion – Powerball – Dec. 24, 2025 – Arkansas
  3. $1.787 billion – Powerball – Sept. 6, 2025 – Missouri and Texas
  4. $1.765 billion – Powerball – Oct. 11, 2023 – California
  5. $1.602 billion – Mega Millions – Aug. 8, 2023 – Florida
  6. $1.586 billion – Powerball – Jan. 13, 2016 – California, Florida and Tennessee
  7. $1.537 billion – Mega Millions – Oct. 23, 2018 – South Carolina
  8. $1.348 billion – Mega Millions – Jan. 13, 2023 – Maine
  9. $1.337 billion – Mega Millions – July 29, 2022 – Illinois
  10. $1.326 billion – Powerball – April 6, 2024 – Oregon

EDITOR’S NOTE — If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, free and confidential help is available here and 24/7 by calling or texting the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738). Prediction market gambling is also increasing. You can watch our interview with a gambling clinician about addiction concerns by clicking here.

Best Red Light Therapy Gifts: Face Masks, Blankets and More

Red light therapy is moving far beyond the familiar LED face mask in 2026, emerging as one of the season’s most sought-after wellness gifts.

Whether it’s an advanced hair-growth cap, a targeted skincare tool or a full-body blanket created to support post-workout recovery, there’s a red light therapy gift to suit nearly everyone on your holiday list.

Shopping for someone who already owns every wellness essential? Infrared and PEMF mats offer an elevated approach to at-home rest and relaxation.

Still, choosing the right device requires more than reaching for the latest or most expensive gadget. Red light products can differ significantly, and the best option—whether it’s a face mask, panel, blanket or wearable—depends on factors including the intended use, treatment coverage and device design.

E! consulted Dr. Susanna Søberg, a scientist and member of BON CHARGE’s Scientific Advisory Board, for expert advice on selecting a red light therapy device, including which wavelengths, coverage areas and usage frequency shoppers should consider.

“Start with your main goal, preferred coverage, and price point,” Dr. Søberg advises when choosing a red light therapy device.

Using those priorities as a guide, this is your head-to-toe guide to gifting red light therapy in 2026—with ideas for skincare enthusiasts, dedicated athletes and anyone in need of a little more relaxation.

Dua Lipa and Callum Turner Hold Hands at Met Opera Gala

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Dua Lipa and her husband, Callum Turner, made a glamorous entrance at the Metropolitan Opera’s opening-night gala in New York City on Monday evening.

The 31-year-old “Houdini” singer and 36-year-old British actor held hands as they arrived for the star-studded performance of Lincoln in the Bardo.

Lipa turned heads in a dramatic black Ferragamo gown from creative director Maximilian Davis’ Spring 2027 collection.

The eye-catching design shimmered with paillettes and featured an off-the-shoulder neckline and a revealing thigh-high slit.

She styled her dark hair in a sleek, swept-back look and completed the ensemble with towering Ferragamo heels.

Turner skipped the red-carpet arrivals but looked equally polished in a tailored black suit paired with formal dress shoes.

Dua Lipa, 31, and husband Callum Turner, 36, were dressed to the nines as they arrived at the Metropolitan Opera's opening night gala in New York City on Monday night

Dua Lipa, 31, and husband Callum Turner, 36, brought plenty of glamour to the Metropolitan Opera’s opening-night gala in New York City on Monday evening

Based on George Saunders’ 2017 novel, Lincoln in the Bardo unfolds across a single night as President Abraham Lincoln confronts the death of his young son, Willie.

Inside the event, Lipa spoke about her love of opera.

“Opera really just touches on all our human emotions, you know, love and grief and loss and ambition and hope and all these things that make it so special. So I think it’s just about surrendering and I love that,” she said.

The appearance came shortly after the singer attended the opening-night gala at Teatro alla Scala in Milan, where she watched a performance of La Traviata last month.

Amy Poehler, Bowen Yang, Andrew Nixon and Kate Walsh were among the other notable guests at Monday’s event.

Earlier this month, Lipa and Turner were spotted enjoying a romantic dog walk through New York City.

The couple stopped for coffee during their stroll with Golo, their Rottweiler-Labrador mix.

Lipa and Turner married in June and appeared every inch the happy newlyweds as they walked hand-in-hand.

The Houdini hitmaker and the British actor sweetly held hands as they made their way to the star-studded performance of Lincoln in the Bardo

The “Houdini” singer and British actor Callum Turner held hands while arriving for the star-studded performance of Lincoln in the Bardo

Lipa wowed in a daring black Ferragamo gown from creative director Maximilian Davis' Spring 2027 collection

Lipa made a striking entrance in a black Ferragamo gown from Maximilian Davis’ Spring 2027 collection

The glamorous black dress, which was adorned with paillettes, featured a saucy side slit and off-the-shoulder sleeves

Her glamorous paillette-covered dress featured an eye-catching side slit and elegant off-the-shoulder sleeves

Lipa wore her raven tresses slicked back and added height to her look with Ferragamo heels

The pop star wore her raven hair slicked back and boosted her height with a pair of Ferragamo heels

Her husband opted to skip the red carpet, leaving her to pose solo for photographers

Turner chose not to walk the red carpet, leaving Lipa to pose alone for photographers

Lipa recently revealed that she and Turner “never lost sight of one another” during their wedding celebrations as they focused on creating “so many memories” together on their special day.

The pair first married in a legal ceremony at Marylebone Town Hall in May, and just one week later they jetted to Italy for their grand wedding.

She told Vogue Italia: ‘Our wedding day was magical. We received so much advice, but we decided to follow just two suggestions: to experience the day as though we were guests ourselves, and to keep finding each other throughout the crowd, never losing sight of one another. That way, we created so many memories together.’

Discussing how she navigates balancing her work and personal life, Lipa added: ‘I’m very good at finding a balance between work, hobbies, and family.

‘I’ve never put my ambition aside, and I’m fortunate to be with someone who loves working as much as I do. We understand and support each other’.

‘To me, he’s family. Our creative language is unique. When we make decisions together, it’s as if we share the same brain – we follow the same instincts.’

Dua also shared that her newfound happiness as a married woman may begin to affect her upcoming music, having previously taken inspiration from heartbreak.

She said: ‘It’s easier to write love songs when your heart is broken because heartbreak is such a powerful, loud emotion.’

‘But now I want to discover what happens when you truly find love. I’m interested in the complexities of a relationship – its quieter moments, the little things.’

Turner also recently revealed his plans to start a family with his new wife in rare comments about their life together.

Other stars at Monday's event included Amy Poehler and Joel Lovell

Other stars at Monday’s event included Amy Poehler and Joel Lovell

SNL alum Bowen Yang was joined by Matt Rogers at the gala

SNL alum Bowen Yang was joined by Matt Rogers at the gala  

Andrew Nixon and Kate Walsh were also in attendance

Andrew Nixon and Kate Walsh were also in attendance 

The couple are said to be relocating to the States later in the year, while Turner films back-to-back projects.

In a recent interview he opened up about their potential next steps as a couple, when asked by Esquire UK whether family would be a priority for him in the next decade.

He said: ‘Obviously, yeah, I’m 36. I’d like to have a family and raise some kids.’

On how he found his wedding day, he sweetly added: ‘It was amazing… It was the most beautiful day of my life. It’s nice to find someone that you love and who loves you and you want to be around all the time.’

Lipa has previously spoken about whether she would like children or not telling British Vogue: ‘I’d love to have kids one day.’

‘But it’s like the constant question of when would there ever be a good time – how it would fit in with my job and how it would work if I went on tour, and how much time out I’d have to take.’

‘I think it’s just one of those things that’s going to happen when it happens. I love kids, but I think there’s so much more to raising a child than just loving children.’

Visitors Capture Shocking Great White Shark Breach at Marina State Beach

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This beachside photo session got an unforgettable—and frightening—surprise from a set of razor-sharp teeth.

A massive great white shark burst from the Pacific off California, transforming a quiet day of taking pictures into a scene that looked lifted straight from “Jaws.”

The dramatic sighting occurred at Marina State Beach on Monterey Bay, where a group of friends had been photographing the coastline and recording videos, CBS reported.

A massive great white shark made a surprise appearance as it jumped out of the water at Marina State Beach. Instagram/@erinmking

Their peaceful outing took a decidedly unexpected turn.

While the friends filmed the scenic water, the enormous predator suddenly launched itself skyward, clearing the surface by several feet in a spectacular and nerve-rattling breach.

California State Parks separately confirmed the shark sighting to CBS, making clear that the astonishing moment was no movie trick or visual effect.

Thankfully, the group remained on the beach instead of swimming when the ocean’s most notorious apex predator made its dramatic appearance.

Video of the encounter quickly spread online, prompting social media users to weigh in on the shark’s very conspicuous entrance.

“I wouldn’t exactly be putting on my swimsuit and wading in,” one viewer wrote, capturing the cautious mood.

“That is a BIG shark,” another person commented.

A third observer quipped, “So much for the element of surprise.”

The great white may have become the star of the day, but its startling appearance also highlighted the untamed wildlife that shares California’s scenic coastline.

Marina State Beach sits beside the Marina Dunes Natural Preserves and offers broad views across the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a federally protected marine area rich in wildlife.

The picturesque beach attracts picnickers, hang-gliders, kite flyers and visitors looking to enjoy the California sunshine.

A great white shark swims upright out of the ocean.

The shark photobomb served as a reminder that California beaches come with some seriously wild neighbors. Instagram/@surfline

Still, those considering a swim may want to reconsider.

California State Parks cautions that water activities at the beach are extremely dangerous because of strong rip currents.

After this particularly dramatic great white sighting, visitors have yet another reason to appreciate the Pacific from dry land.

Great white sharks are native to California’s coastal waters and play a vital part in the health and balance of the marine ecosystem.

Although their fearsome reputation has been cemented by decades of Hollywood horror movies, attacks on humans are rare.

Still, there’s something deeply unsettling about watching a massive shark rocket out of the water just as you’re trying to capture the perfect beachside Instagram moment.

The friends may have headed to Marina State Beach hoping for some scenic ocean footage, but they ended up with a blockbuster-worthy encounter.

Apparently, even great whites can’t resist crashing a good photo shoot.


James Talarico and Ken Paxton Hold Rallies as Texas Early Voting Begins

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Ken Paxton accused James Talarico of wanting to “transition our kids,” while the Democratic lawmaker branded his Republican rival “the most corrupt politician in Texas” as the two candidates held competing rallies in Fort Worth on Monday.

Texas has not elected a Democrat to the U.S. Senate since 1993. But Talarico, a state representative, currently holds a narrow advantage over Texas Attorney General Paxton in the polling averages.

Both campaigns chose Fort Worth—the state’s fourth-largest city—for the opening day of early voting. Paxton brought Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to the stage, while Talarico unveiled a campaign advertisement featuring actors from the television drama Friday Night Lights.

Speaking at the T&P Station Wedding and Event Venue, Paxton portrayed Talarico as a radical on social issues, focusing particularly on his views regarding transgender children.

“This guy is really obsessed with transitions. He wants to transition our kids, he wants to transition Texas off of oil and gas. How about we transition him and his crazy ideas right out of Texas?” Paxton said, drawing loud applause from supporters.

Talarico has previously made statements supporting transgender rights and later walked back comments that suggested God was nonbinary.

Paxton also targeted Talarico’s economic agenda, including the Democrat’s criticism of President Donald Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill.”

“James Talarico has a plan for your money, it just doesn’t include you. You all know that’s true. He is a radical who has never met a tax increase he didn’t love. He said that Trump tax cuts were deeply immoral. That’s who he is,” Paxton said.

Ken Paxton (pictured) accused James Talarico of wanting to 'transition our kids' while the Democrat called his GOP opponent 'the most corrupt politician in Texas' in dueling rallies in the same city Monday

Ken Paxton (pictured) accused James Talarico of wanting to “transition our kids,” while the Democrat called his Republican opponent “the most corrupt politician in Texas” during competing Fort Worth rallies Monday.

Talarico has made pro-trans statements in the past and has had to walk back suggesting that God was nonbinary

Talarico has previously made statements supporting transgender rights and later walked back comments suggesting that God was nonbinary.

Kennedy appeared at the event to offer a full endorsement of Paxton and said the attorney general would support his efforts in Washington to combat autism.

At his own rally, Talarico continued to focus on corruption allegations involving Paxton. He called the attorney general “the most corrupt politician in Texas” and did not mention President Trump during his speech.

“Ken Paxton is everything that’s wrong with our politics,” Talarico said, accusing Paxton of adding $27 million to his personal net worth since taking office.

“This is the rot at the core of this corrupt political system. We can’t afford gas or groceries or healthcare because the system has been rigged by billionaires and corrupt politicians like Ken Paxton.”

Paxton has faced a series of scandals in recent years, including an impeachment effort from members of his own party. He has also been indicted on securities-fraud and other charges over allegations that he misled investors, and was accused of giving a job to a Christian influencer with whom he was having an affair.

Talarico’s campaign also released an advertisement featuring Connie Britton, Jesse Plemons and other actors from NBC’s Friday Night Lights, the 2000s series that was set and filmed in Texas.

The Democrat has dubbed his campaign swing the “Clear Eyes, Full Hearts” tour, borrowing a well-known line from the show.

Talarico has presented himself as an outsider challenging Texas’ Republican establishment, particularly as Austin-based billionaire Elon Musk contributes millions of dollars to Paxton’s campaign.

Paxton featured Robert F Kennedy Jr as a guest speaker at his rally in Fort Worth

Paxton featured Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a guest speaker at his Fort Worth rally.

President Donald Trump endorsed Paxton in his runoff race against the Republican Senator John Cornyn

The national conversation around Talarico’s campaign has evolved over the past months. 

Initially, the state lawmaker was considered just the latest of several Democratic candidates over the past years who gave the party a hope of flipping Texas, only for that hope to deflate come Election Day. 

Now, Talarico is seen as a real contender to win the seat against Paxton. 

He holds a narrow advantage over Paxton, leading 48 percent to 46 percent in a University of Houston poll released Monday. 

Talarico’s success so far can partly be chalked up to voters’ apprehensions toward Paxton, who faced questions in his past over corruption, including being impeached by his own party in the Texas legislature. He was later acquitted.

While outside spending in support of Paxton has flooded the Texas airwaves with ads, Talarico’s campaign itself has outpaced Paxton’s in fundraising from donors eager for Texas to forgo its solidly Republican title.

The prospect of a flagship GOP state turning blue doesn’t just fill Democrats with glee and Republicans with alarm.

Whoever wins will help determine which party controls the Senate in Trump’s final two years in office, making it either smooth sailing for Trump or a bog of investigations and opposition.

Talarico has pitched himself as an upstart disruptor of the state's Republican establishment, especially with Austin resident Elon Musk (pictured left) pumping millions into Paxton's campaign

Talarico has pitched himself as an upstart disruptor of the state’s Republican establishment, especially with Austin resident Elon Musk (pictured left) pumping millions into Paxton’s campaign

Scandal has swamped Paxton in recent years, from an impeachment attempt by his own party to being indicted on securities fraud and other charges over an alleged scheme to mislead investors to giving a job to a Christian influencer he was having an affair with

Scandal has swamped Paxton in recent years, from an impeachment attempt by his own party to being indicted on securities fraud and other charges over an alleged scheme to mislead investors to giving a job to a Christian influencer he was having an affair with 

Talarico, a seminarian and state representative, has also tread a very careful path — as nonpartisan as he can — from the major metros that already tilt Democratic, along the border towns that flipped from blue to red last election, and to the rural Republican high plains and desert.

The candidate has distanced himself from former President Joe Biden’s administration and his own party, and while progressive Senator Bernie Sanders is coming to Texas this month, he won’t be sharing a stage with Talarico. 

Talarico’s strategy is to take direct aim at what voters say they are most concerned about: the costs that have inexorably grown for years. 

That unaffordability, Talarico argued at the nighttime rally in Texas that was packed with younger voters, is because billionaires and corrupt politicians have rigged the system.

Trump and Republicans are well aware of Talarico’s ability to connect with voters, and of Paxton’s struggles to find purchase in what would otherwise be a relatively easy race for a Republican. 

The President has made several trips to Texas to rally for Paxton.

Paxton has received significant financial support from Musk, who last year headed Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency. 

Musk contributed $158 million to the Senate Leadership Fund, federal campaign spending filings showed Thursday. 

The Senate Leadership Fund gave $158 million to Texas PAC, the largest contributor to Paxton’s campaign.

Musk also provided $10 million to Lone Star Liberty PAC, a group that supports Paxton. 

Talarico’s recent return to the road follows nine days earlier this month when Talarico was out of the public eye due to the flu. 

His absence sparked a swirl of conspiracies online, including the false claim that he was at a mental health treatment center in Ohio. 

Shared by conservative social media influencers, the claim quickly fell apart at closer inspection.

Election forecaster Nate Silver has made a fresh prediction about Democrats’ chances of seizing control of Congress, with his latest model giving the party a 94 percent chance of winning the House and a 75 percent chance of taking the Senate.

The updated forecast, published Monday in his Silver Bulletin newsletter, comes just over two weeks before Americans head to the polls on November 3, with Republicans fighting to hold on to their majorities in both chambers.

The FiveThirtyEight founder’s model puts Democrats’ chances of taking the Senate at 75 percent, up from 50 percent in early September, while their odds of winning the House have climbed from 81 percent to 94 percent over the same period.

Silver had discussed the shifting political landscape ahead of the midterms during an appearance on The Fifth Column podcast on Friday, October 16, before publishing his latest forecast.

The figures are model-based probabilities, not poll results, and do not guarantee that Democrats will win either chamber.

Amanda Seyfried Criticized Over Elizabeth Holmes Documentary

Amanda Seyfried faced intense online backlash after appearing in the latest documentary about Elizabeth Holmes.

Viewers were surprised to see Seyfried alongside Nathan Fielder in “You Can See Everything,” which follows Holmes through the final 34 days before she began her prison sentence. Holmes reported to Federal Prison Camp Bryan on May 30, 2023.

The documentary revisited Seyfried’s connection to the disgraced Theranos founder, whom she portrayed in Hulu’s “The Dropout.”

Released Oct. 16, the film examined how Seyfried’s views of Holmes evolved, including her thoughts on Holmes’ personal life and relationship with Billy Evans.

For the project, Seyfried once again stepped into Holmes’ role and helped Fielder recreate conversations he had with the former Theranos CEO after she entered prison.

Throughout the documentary, Seyfried wrestled with growing sympathy for Holmes, even as Holmes criticized the actress’ portrayal of her in the Hulu series.

“Amanda Seyfried defending Holmes as a victim of male manipulation until Holmes accused her of participating in a sensationalized version of the Theranos scandal and then flipping out about how it is just TV was a [sic] truly gross,” one X user wrote. “I hope she gets redragged for it.”

Other viewers joined the criticism, accusing Seyfried of changing her position once attention turned to her own role in bringing the Theranos scandal to television.

“Lots of ‘women protecting women’ posturing from her until she gets accused of perhaps also causing Elizabeth some degree of pain, after which she immediately deflects and starts engaging in female emotional manipulation by accusing Nathan of covering up for Elizabeth based on her ‘intuition,’” another user said.

A separate viewer said the documentary reinforced an already negative opinion of Seyfried.

“This is maybe the number one reason why I loved ‘You Can See Everything.’ Seeing Amanda Seyfried for her true colors in full hypocrisy was such a cathartic feeling,” the user said. “It reminds me why we should never take people like her seriously.”

However, not all viewers agreed with the backlash. Some defended Seyfried, saying her shifting perspective on Holmes reflected the documentary’s broader purpose rather than hypocrisy.

“imagine walking away from this blaming amanda seyfried,” one user wrote. “the point is, amanda herself changes her opinion on elizabeth holmes. so does nathan fielder. so does the audience. thats the literal point.”

Another viewer added, “At no point in the movie does Elizabeth Holmes reckon with how anyone other than her was harmed by the downfall of Theranos. Amanda Seyfried earnestly reckons with the consequences of her actions even when she is (correctly) pretty sure she didn’t do anything wrong.”

Fox News Digital contacted Seyfried’s representative for comment.

Holmes was convicted in January 2022 on four federal fraud charges after prosecutors accused her of misleading investors about the technology and capabilities of her blood-testing company. A jury found her guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and three counts of wire fraud, all involving investors.

She was sentenced in November 2022 to 11 years and three months in federal prison.

“You Can See Everything” explores Holmes’ attempt to regain control of her public image following the dramatic collapse of Theranos, the blood-testing company she founded.

As Holmes prepared to begin her prison term, she faced the consequences of her fraud conviction, relentless scrutiny of her personal life and the Hollywood treatment of her downfall.

The film provides a closer look at the disgraced entrepreneur’s efforts to move forward after the scandal that destroyed her reputation, while examining the gap between how Holmes saw herself and how the public viewed her.

Albanese Minutes From $2,500 Fundraiser When Helen Haines News Broke

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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke cancelled their appearances at a high-priced Labor fundraiser in Sydney on Monday night after independent MP Helen Haines was allegedly attacked outside her electorate office.

Police arrested 43-year-old Brendan Nugent at the Wangaratta scene on Monday afternoon after he allegedly struck 65-year-old Haines twice with his car. The MP was left fighting for her life and reportedly lost a leg in the incident.

Haines was in a critical condition after undergoing emergency surgery in Melbourne overnight. No charges had been filed as counterterrorism authorities continued examining the circumstances of the attack.

Albanese was working from the government’s Bligh Street offices in Sydney ahead of the $2,500-a-head dinner, which was to be hosted by the Prime Minister and senior ministers at the Wentworth Sofitel.

The Labor ministry had been scheduled to meet corporate executives, lobbyists and business leaders at the function, organised by the Labor Business Forum, the ALP’s business networking and fundraising arm.

Businesses pay between $33,000 and $121,000 a year to join the forum, before paying thousands more for exclusive access to senior government figures at private dinners and events. A VIP table for eight guests cost up to $18,000.

The fundraiser was scheduled to begin at 6pm, with MPs expected to arrive between 5pm and 6pm.

Daily Mail understands Albanese and Burke were informed of the incident within half an hour of it occurring.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong (pictured) arriving the Labor fundraiser on Monday night

Foreign Minister Penny Wong arrives at the Labor fundraiser on Monday night

Julian Hill (left) and Tanya Plibersek (right) riding the escalator into the Wentworth Sofitel

Julian Hill, left, and Tanya Plibersek ride the escalator into the Wentworth Sofitel

Sports and Communications Minister Anika Wells (pictured) was in attendance at the event

Sports and Communications Minister Anika Wells was among those attending the event

Instead of joining the dinner, both ministers stayed in their offices as more information emerged about Haines’ condition and the events surrounding the alleged attack.

Following briefings from the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police and ASIO, officials decided that neither Albanese nor Burke would attend the fundraiser.

The Joint Counter Terrorism Team was activated soon afterwards. The alleged offender was understood to have been known to authorities previously.

The incident appeared to affect Albanese deeply. He looked visibly shaken during a 7pm press conference and later spoke about the matter in an interview with the ABC.

Although Albanese and Burke stayed away, several senior ministers proceeded with the fundraiser.

Those attending included Attorney-General Michelle Rowland, Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek, Sports and Communications Minister Anika Wells, Skills and Training Minister Tim Ayres, Aged Care Minister Sam Rae and Cabinet Secretary Andrew Charlton.

Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino, Assistant Defence Minister Peter Khalil, Environment Minister Murray Watt, Resources Minister Madeleine King and Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh were also present.

Early Childhood Education Minister Jess Walsh, Workplace Relations Minister Amanda Rishworth, Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Matt Thistlethwaite and Assistant Minister for Immigration Julian Hill also attended the dinner.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles (pictured) arriving to the dinner

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles arrives at the dinner

Environment Minister Murray Watt (pictured) arriving to the Labor Business Network event

Environment Minister Murray Watt (pictured) arriving to the Labor Business Network event 

Albanese (right) and Burke (left) both looked visibly shaken when speaking to media

Albanese (right) and Burke (left) both looked visibly shaken when speaking to media 

Daily Mail understands that many ministers only became aware of the extent of the incident involving Haines after arriving at the venue.

Influential Labor powerbroker and lobbyist Eamonn Fitzpatrick was among those spotted at the event. 

Other attendees included a mix of industry lobbyists, business leaders and corporate representatives. 

Several ministers were seen leaving the Commonwealth Parliamentary Offices and crossing the road to the Wentworth shortly before the function began.

Attendees described the mood inside the room as sombre, with many distressed by the news as it started to become public. 

Organisers ultimately cut the evening short, scrapping planned speeches and cancelling a scheduled raffle.

Labor’s fundraiser was planned well in advance, with guests expected to have confirmed their attendance weeks earlier, some as far back as mid-September. 

The Federal Labor Business Forum generated at least $7million for Labor in the last financial year, and has been the party’s largest fundraising tool outside of the Trade Union movement. 

Report Alleges DNA Evidence in Ilhan Omar Marriage Fraud Claim

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A search of Ilhan Omar’s Washington, D.C., home reportedly uncovered DNA evidence and her personal passport as part of a federal investigation into alleged immigration fraud.

Federal authorities also seized Omar’s phone during the raid and have issued more than a dozen grand jury subpoenas, including subpoenas involving some of her relatives.

Now, it’s been revealed that federal agents went further, obtaining the DNA evidence and her passport, Fox News reported. 

Investigators have rejected reports that agents searched through Omar’s trash, although it remains unclear how they obtained the DNA evidence.

A source told The New York Post that the DNA could provide the missing link in allegations that Omar married her brother to help him obtain a green card.

Several sources have claimed that the evidence gives prosecutors grounds to pursue possible federal immigration-fraud charges against Omar.

Omar, 44, has not been charged with a crime. She strongly denies any wrongdoing and maintains that she is the target of a politically motivated witch hunt.

The Daily Mail has contacted a spokesperson for Congresswoman Omar and her attorneys for comment.

The DHS raid of Ilhan Omar's (pictured) Washington home produced DNA evidence in addition to her personal passport as part of their immigration fraud investigation against the 'Squad' member

A raid by the Department of Homeland Security at Ilhan Omar’s Washington home reportedly uncovered DNA evidence, along with her personal passport, during an immigration-fraud investigation involving the “Squad” member.

Agents have denied reports of 'dumpster diving' through Omar's trash as part of the probe but it is unclear how her DNA was obtained

Agents have denied reports that they searched through Omar’s trash, but the source of the DNA evidence remains unclear.

Border Czar Tom Homan has warned that Omar could lose her U.S. citizenship and face deportation if federal investigators find evidence of immigration fraud.

In an interview with Fox News, Homan said investigators had built what he described as a “strong case” against the Somali-born lawmaker.

When asked whether the probe could lead to Omar’s denaturalization and deportation, Homan said that outcome was possible.

“Of course,” he replied, explaining that federal law provides a process for revoking citizenship if someone lied during the naturalization process.

“We’ve done it before, and it is a long, tedious process, but it’s been done before,” Homan said.

“I’ve been involved with those investigations before, and certainly if the evidence points that way, yes, it could happen.”

Homan issued the warning as former President Barack Obama mounted an extraordinary defense of the Somali-born lawmaker, accusing Donald Trump’s administration of using the federal government against one of its strongest political opponents.

The intensifying dispute follows a dramatic FBI search of Omar’s Washington, D.C., residence last Monday. Agents seized her cellphone during the operation as part of an investigation into allegations concerning her family’s immigration documents.

Homeland Security officers stand next to their unmarked vehicles during a search of the Washington residence of Omar

Homeland Security officers stand beside unmarked vehicles during a search of Omar’s Washington residence.

White House border czar Tom Homan warned that Ilhan Omar could face denaturalization and deportation if investigators uncover immigration fraud, claiming the feds have a 'strong case'.

White House Border Czar Tom Homan warned that Ilhan Omar could face denaturalization and deportation if investigators uncover immigration fraud, saying federal authorities have a “strong case.”

Homan indicated that investigators were becoming increasingly confident in the evidence gathered during the probe.

‘I’ve been told we have a strong case,’ he told Fox News on Saturday. ‘We’ll let the evidence see where it leads. She’ll be held to the same standard you and I are held. If she violated law then she’d be held accountable.’

The border czar also suggested that immigration fraud investigations were intended to send a wider warning about the consequences of breaking American immigration laws.

‘Deterrence is a part of what this administration is doing,’ he said, pointing to efforts to review refugee cases and pursue denaturalization proceedings.

But when pressed on whether federal authorities were investigating Omar for other possible offenses beyond immigration fraud, Homan refused to elaborate.

‘I won’t go there,’ he replied.

The border czar’s remarks represent another escalation in a politically charged investigation that has already triggered outrage among Democrats and prompted a rare intervention from Obama.

The former president took to X on Sunday to condemn the investigation, accusing Trump of attempting to intimidate an elected official for exercising her right to criticize the White House.

Trump has long had a bitter feud with Omar, one of his fiercest critics in Congress, repeatedly attacking the Somali-born Democrat over her political views and immigration background

Barack Obama spoke out against Trump following the raid calling the investigation appalling in lengthy rant to X

Barack Obama spoke out against Trump following the raid calling the investigation appalling in lengthy rant to X

‘It is a basic principle of American democracy that the government can’t selectively target individuals simply because of their political beliefs or what they say,’ Obama wrote.

‘But that’s exactly what the Trump Administration is doing to Congresswoman Ilhan Omar of Minnesota.’

Obama argued that the investigation appeared to hinge on a disputed question about Omar’s age when her father became a naturalized American citizen.

According to the former president, Omar arrived in the United States aged 12 and automatically acquired citizenship five years later when her father was naturalized.

He claimed investigators were pursuing a theory that she had actually been 18 at the time, potentially undermining her citizenship status.

‘Think about that. The full weight of the federal government is being brought down on a law-abiding elected official because she has dared to criticize the president,’ Obama wrote.

‘The fact that any president, or any administration, is willing to engage in such transparent efforts to intimidate someone should outrage all Americans, regardless of how they feel about Congresswoman Omar’s political views.’

The investigation has revived longstanding allegations circulated by conservative critics that Omar married her brother to facilitate his immigration to the United States.

The congresswoman has repeatedly rejected those claims as ‘absurd and offensive.’

Her legal team has now demanded the immediate return of property seized during the search, accusing the Justice Department of conducting an unlawful and politically motivated investigation.

Omar’s attorneys insisted there was ‘no legitimate basis for any suggestion that she has violated any law concerning her citizenship status.’

They also accused federal authorities of disregarding longstanding Justice Department practices intended to prevent investigative actions from influencing elections.

‘This vindictive, retributive, and politically motivated criminal investigation into one of the President’s chief congressional critics violates Representative Omar’s constitutional rights and threatens the separation of powers,’ they wrote.

Justice Department spokesperson Emily Covington rejected the accusations, describing the lawyers’ letter as ‘riddled with false allegations and inaccuracies.’

‘Our attorneys and law enforcement partners complied with all court orders and legal obligations, as they always do,’ she said.

Trump previously denied having any involvement in the investigation, telling reporters following the search: ‘I think she’s a terrible person, but that’s really up to the DOJ.’

Florida Substitute Teacher Accused of Kicking Special-Needs Student

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A Florida substitute teacher allegedly kicked a student with disabilities in the leg and later told a witness he had done it to “even the score,” authorities said.

Bryan Schewitz, 60, was arrested Friday following the reported incident at Matanzas High School in Flagler County, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.

When a witness asked about a large mark on the student’s leg, Schewitz allegedly replied, “He kicked me and I kicked him. So now we’re square,” investigators said.

Schewitz, a Flagler Beach resident, was charged with child abuse without great bodily harm.

Investigators said the incident began Friday as the student, whose disability has not been identified, experienced behavioral difficulties in class.

A witness told authorities that Schewitz used excessive force while trying to place the student in a chair. The substitute then allegedly directed the child to put his hands on a table and warned, “The gloves are off.”

The witness said Schewitz’s handling of the student made her feel uncomfortable.

Another witness reported seeing Schewitz kick the child and later noticed a large mark on the student’s leg.

The student’s mother later told deputies that skin had been torn from her child’s leg. She also provided photographs of the injury, according to WKMG, which cited the arrest report.

School officials questioned the student, who confirmed that Schewitz had kicked him, authorities said.

Schewitz offered deputies a different version of events, maintaining that any contact had been accidental.

He said the student had arrived late, refused to take a seat and began kicking in his direction before striking Schewitz’s leg.

Schewitz told investigators that he extended his own foot and unintentionally kicked the student.

He also claimed the student had been walking around the classroom and trying to poke other students with a pencil. Schewitz said he guided the child by the shoulder toward an empty chair.

The substitute acknowledged placing the student’s hands on a table and issuing a stern warning that “the gloves were coming off,” investigators said.

Asked about the alleged comment that he and the student were now square, Schewitz first denied making it. He later said he was unsure whether he had used those words.

Despite that uncertainty, Schewitz continued to insist that the kick had been accidental, authorities said.

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly criticized the alleged conduct, saying adults responsible for children — especially students with disabilities — are expected to remain calm and exercise sound judgment.

Flagler Schools Superintendent LaShakia Moore also said protecting students remains the district’s top priority.

“This kind of behavior will not be tolerated on our campuses,” Moore said.

Schewitz was booked into the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility and released Saturday on $2,500 bond, according to the sheriff’s office.

It was not immediately clear whether Schewitz had been suspended, fired or removed from the school district’s substitute teaching roster.

UNC Settles Trump Administration Probes Into Alleged Campus Antisemitism and Race-Based Admissions

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The Trump administration has reached a settlement with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that will end 18 active federal investigations, along with a separate Justice Department compliance review into alleged antisemitism and race discrimination on campus.

The voluntary agreement does not require UNC to pay a fine, and the university neither admits wrongdoing nor accepts liability. The deal remains in effect through the end of 2028 and allows UNC to continue receiving federal funding.

As part of the settlement, UNC will create an internal “Merit & Civil Rights Administrator” role and add a “Title VI Coordinator” to its compliance office. The positions will handle complaints involving antisemitism and discrimination based on race.

UNC said Elizabeth Hall, the university’s associate vice chancellor for university compliance, will hold both positions while continuing her current responsibilities. Hall will serve as the university’s liaison with the Justice Department and oversee its required reports.

A line of students walk on the campus of the University of North Carolina

The Trump administration reached a settlement with UNC that will close 18 active Education Department investigations and a separate Justice Department compliance review. (Eros Hoagland/Getty Images)

“This announcement reinforces our commitment to the fair and equal treatment of everyone at Carolina,” UNC Chancellor Lee H. Roberts said in a statement. “For at least a decade, through different presidential administrations, U.S. universities have faced heightened public scrutiny across a range of issues. We’re proud to resolve those issues at Carolina in a way that protects our mission and affirms the civil rights of everyone in our community.”

The settlement also directs UNC to provide required antisemitism training for students, faculty members and staff.

The university must additionally ban face coverings used to hide a person’s identity, with certain exceptions. Under the agreement, student organizations “shall be subject to discipline for antisemitic discriminatory conduct.”

President Donald Trump and administration officials have characterized pro-Palestinian demonstrations as antisemitic. Protesters, including some Jewish organizations, dispute that claim, arguing that criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza is not inherently antisemitic and that support for Palestinian rights does not amount to backing extremism.

The agreement also requires UNC to adopt what the Justice Department described as a “color-blind admissions system.” The university may not use race or adjust its admissions procedures to influence the racial makeup of its student body. It may, however, consider how an applicant personally overcame hardship and evaluate elements of family background, including poverty, as long as those factors are applied consistently.

Students walk on University of North Carolina campus

The agreement requires UNC to provide mandatory antisemitism training to students, faculty and staff. (Jonathan Drake/Reuters)

UNC must also enforce race-neutral rules for student benefits, scholarships, financial aid and university programs, according to the settlement.

The administration has maintained that policies giving preference to particular racial groups violate federal anti-discrimination requirements.

Under the deal, UNC will submit any complaints involving antisemitism or race discrimination to the Justice Department and the Education Department every quarter.

The Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights will close its 18 open investigations into UNC. Separately, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division will end an 18-month compliance review that began in April 2025.

“Title VI requires that all students — regardless of their ancestry or race — receive equal treatment under the law at federally funded colleges and universities,” Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon said in a statement.

Harmeet Dhillon

UNC will prohibit face masks used to conceal an individual’s identity as part of the settlement. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

“Higher ed policies and practices that tolerate antisemitism or favor certain racial groups over others, frustrate our color-blind justice system. The Civil Rights Division commends UNC for its cooperation in meeting its obligations under federal law without the need for litigation; we hope other institutions will take note and do the same,” she added.

In 2023, the Supreme Court struck down race-based admissions programs at UNC and Harvard, effectively ending affirmative action in college admissions.

The administration has launched investigations into universities nationwide and threatened to withdraw federal funding over issues including pro-Palestinian campus protests, diversity programs and transgender policies.

The federal government has also settled with some other schools, including Columbia University, which last year agreed to pay more than $200 million to resolve federal probes, and Brown University, which agreed to provide $50 million over 10 years to Rhode Island workforce-development organizations as part of its settlement.

Harvard, which has been a primary target of the administration’s threats, has not yet made a deal.