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DCLM Daily Manna 7 July 2026 — Saying A Costly No

DCLM Daily Manna 7 July 2026 Devotional by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi — Saying A Costly No

TOPIC: Saying A Costly No (DCLM Daily Manna 7 July 2026)

KEY VERSE: And the king said unto the footmen that stood about him, Turn, and slay the priests of the LORD; because their hand also is with David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not shew it to me. But the servants of the king would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests the LORD… – 1 Samuel 22:17

TEXT: 1 Samuel 22:11-23 (KJV)

11 Then the king sent to call Ahimelech the priest, the son of Ahitub, and all his father’s house, the priests that were in Nob: and they came all of them to the king.

12 And Saul said, Hear now, thou son of Ahitub. And he answered, Here I am, my lord.

13 And Saul said unto him, Why have ye conspired against me, thou and the son of Jesse, in that thou hast given him bread, and a sword, and hast enquired of God for him, that he should rise against me, to lie in wait, as at this day?

14 Then Ahimelech answered the king, and said, And who is so faithful among all thy servants as David, which is the king’s son in law, and goeth at thy bidding, and is honourable in thine house?

15 Did I then begin to enquire of God for him? be it far from me: let not the king impute any thing unto his servant, nor to all the house of my father: for thy servant knew nothing of all this, less or more.

16 And the king said, Thou shalt surely die, Ahimelech, thou, and all thy father’s house.

17 And the king said unto the footmen that stood about him, Turn, and slay the priests of the Lord: because their hand also is with David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not shew it to me. But the servants of the king would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests of the Lord.

18 And the king said to Doeg, Turn thou, and fall upon the priests. And Doeg the Edomite turned, and he fell upon the priests, and slew on that day fourscore and five persons that did wear a linen ephod.

19 And Nob, the city of the priests, smote he with the edge of the sword, both men and women, children and sucklings, and oxen, and asses, and sheep, with the edge of the sword.

20 And one of the sons of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped, and fled after David.

21 And Abiathar shewed David that Saul had slain the Lord’s priests.

22 And David said unto Abiathar, I knew it that day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, that he would surely tell Saul: I have occasioned the death of all the persons of thy father’s house.

23 Abide thou with me, fear not: for he that seeketh my life seeketh thy life: but with me thou shalt be in safeguard.

DCLM Daily Manna For Today MESSAGE:

History is replete with accounts of men and women who had to say no even when they knew it would cost them a great deal. German pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer is one of such. Based on his faith and moral conviction, he dared to say no to Adolf Hitler’s regime and the compromising “German Church.” In the 1930s-1940s, he openly opposed Nazi ideology and helped form the Confessing Church. He was eventually arrested and executed, but his stand remains a symbol of Christian courage.

The footmen who worked with King Saul in his evil hunt for David’s life dared to disobey the command of the king to kill Ahimelech, the priest of the Lord, for his supposed support for David. They could not bring themselves to partake in such injustice, cruelty, and ungodliness. Not many Bible readers have considered the bravery of these soldiers. To disobey a wicked King Saul was risky enough. But to disobey an outraged King Saul in such a circumstance amounted to a suicide bid. What became of them is not recorded, but these soldiers have earned a name among the ‘greats’. They would rather obey the voice of their conscience than obey an evil command.

As for Saul, his malice against David made him lose his mind, and so blinded him that he suspected anyone who did not openly support his misguided mission. Neither Ahimelech’s plea of innocence nor his servants’ caution could restrain him from his murderous resolve. It took a sycophantic and malicious Doeg, an Edomite overseer of Saul’s flocks, to carry out Saul’s execution of not only Ahimelech and eighty four other priests, but also a whole town of Nob.

As Christians living in a world full of contradictions and moral depravity, we often run into circumstances that demand we take a stand for the Lord. Here, many succumb to the popular options that hold little or no suffering and ridicule. But they become the real losers. Those who take their stand and dare to say ‘no’ to a King Saul on conscientious grounds are the real heroes. Their wages are paid in the currency of time and eternity. Will you dare for the Lord?

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
When saying no to man means saying yes to God, say yes!

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Genesis 21-23

Deeper Life Daily Manna For Today 2025 was written by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.

REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON

ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!

Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:






Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.



Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold

AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

Rhapsody Of Realities 7 July 2026: Don’t Beg God In Prayer

Rhapsody Of Realities 7 July 2026 By Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (Christ Embassy): Don’t Beg God In Prayer

TOPIC: Don’t Beg God In Prayer (Rhapsody of Realities 7 July 2026)

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father (Romans 8:15).

Rhapsody Of Realities For Today’s MESSAGE:

Your understanding and opinion of God, your relationship with Him, will certainly define how you pray. When your understanding is right, your prayer life will be filled with confidence, boldness and assurance. But when it’s skewed, prayer can become a struggle, filled with uncertainty, pleading and a sense of inadequacy.

Never approach God as though you’re a stranger trying to gain His attention. He’s your Father. What kind of children does a father delight in? Not the ones who come crying and pleading for everything as though they have no place in the home. Relate to God as your gracious, loving and caring heavenly Father who seeks your best more than you could ever imagine or desire for yourself.

That’s the truth. He loves you more than you love yourself. Therefore, understand your place in Him and with Him. He said in Hebrews 4:16, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” What an invitation! He wants you to always approach Him with confidence, knowing that He delights in you.

The Bible says the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous and His ears are open to their prayer (Psalm 34:15). He delights in you to do you good. He daily loads you with benefits (Psalm 68:19). Hallelujah! In Christ Jesus, you have direct access to the Father. You have unhindered, unlimited access; use it: “In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him” (Ephesians 3:12).

Read our opening scripture again; the slavish mentality has been taken away. Instead, you’ve been brought into sonship. When you beg, you’re not expressing humility but a lack of understanding of who you are. God doesn’t respond to that mentality. What He recognises is the consciousness of sonship, the confidence that comes from knowing Him as your Father and functioning from that perspective. Praise God.

PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for the Spirit of adoption in me by which I relate to you as my Father. I live with boldness and confidence, knowing that I belong to you and that all things are mine in Christ. I walk in the consciousness of my oneness with you, and in the fullness of my inheritance in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

Galatians 4:6-7 (KJV)
And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. [7] Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

Hebrews 4:16 (AMPC )
Let us then fearlessly and confidently and boldly draw near to the throne of grace (the throne of God’s unmerited favor to us sinners), that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find grace to help in good time for every need [appropriate help and well-timed help, coming just when we need it].

Matthew 6:6-8 (KJV)
But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. [7] But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. [8] Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Acts 18:24-19:1-7 & Job 12-14

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Galatians 1:10-17 & Isaiah 27

DIVINE HEALTH CONFESSIONS – 7TH JULY 2026

I am in control and in charge of what happens to my body. Therefore, I only give expression to the workings of the Holy Spirit in my life and body. The Holy Spirit perambulates my body; therefore, I live in dominion over sin, sickness, and infirmity.

Keep saying it, don’t stop talking it! Remember, you can make your way prosperous with words. Get talking today!

Remember to share with all your friends and loved ones today. Thank you and God bless you richly.

Rhapsody of Realities 2026 Devotional was written by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (D.Sc., D.D.). President of Loveworld Inc. aka Christ Embassy Int’l.

REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON

ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!

Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:






Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.



Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold

AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

Stream the USA vs Belgium World Cup 2026 Match for Free: Your Ultimate Viewing Guide

The 2026 World Cup is steadily advancing, nearing its grand finale.

Yes, you heard it right. The tournament has reached the thrilling round of 16 stage. With what seems like an endless series of matches stretching across numerous stadiums in America, tonight promises an exciting showdown between the USA and Belgium. Fans from all corners of the globe have been flocking to see the action unfold, ensuring no shortage of drama in this sporting spectacle.

Interestingly, President Donald Trump took it upon himself to intervene, urging FIFA to reconsider a red card suspension. In a previous round-32 clash against Bosnia-Herzegovina, the pivotal U.S. player, Folarin Balogun, was handed a red card. Thanks to Trump’s appeal, FIFA decided to revoke Balogun’s suspension just in time for today’s crucial match, significantly boosting the U.S. team’s prospects.

To ensure you don’t miss any of tonight’s soccer excitement, here’s how to catch every moment of the action from the World Cup match without spending a dime…

Folarin Balogun in USMNT kit during the World Cup

Photo: Getty Images

When Does the 2026 World Cup USA Vs. Belgium Match Start?

The eagerly awaited face-off between the USA and Belgium kicks off at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. Tune in to watch live on networks like FOX, Peacock, Tubi, FOX One, and Telemundo.

What Channel is USA Vs. Belgium Match On?

The World Cup is going to be airing live on a variety of networks, including FOX Sports, FS1, FOX ONE, and FOX in English. You can watch the matches in Spanish on Telemundo, Peacock, and NBC Universo.

All 104 World Cup matchups will be streaming in Spanish on Peacock and in English on FOX One and the FOX Sports app.

A soccer player in a white and blue jersey jumping to head a soccer ball.

Can I Watch The USA Vs. Belgium Match on YouTube TV?

Yep! YouTube TV has got you covered. The streamer offers the FOX and FS1 live streams. For a limited time only, YouTube TV is only $67.99/month for the first three months, and then $82.99/month. There is a Sports Plan that includes FOX, FS1, and 30 other channels for only $54.99/month.

Does YouTube TV Offer a Free Trial?

Great news! Youtube TV is currently offering a ten-day free trial.

How To Stream The World Cup Without Cable:

The World Cup can be stream with a subscription to Fubo, DIRECTV, Sling TV, and Hulu + Live TV. All of the streaming services have free trials available.

World Cup 2026: How to Stream USA vs. Belgium in English on Peacock

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The moment has arrived for the United States Men’s National Soccer Team to elevate their game.

After securing a 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday, July 2, the USMNT now faces Belgium in the Round of 16 of the World Cup 2026. The series of matches held across North America since June 11 will culminate in the finals at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, July 19.

USMNT’s striker, Folarin Balogun, previously sparked attention due to his red card in the last match. Initially suspended from tonight’s game, CBS News reveals that FIFA has overturned this decision, enabling him to suit up against Belgium. Reports indicate that former President Donald Trump reached out to FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Thursday, July 2, advocating for a review of what was described to the press as an occurrence between “two great athletes that collided and became entangled.”

With Balogun ready to join U.S. soccer talents such as Christian Pulisic, Malik Tillman, and Matt Freese on the field, you may be keen to find out how to catch tonight’s World Cup clash in English. Here’s the current viewing information.

Sebasitan Berhalter in USMNT kit during the World Cup

Photo: Getty Images

When Does the USA Play in the World Cup?

The USA is set to confront Belgium tonight at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington, known as Seattle Stadium throughout the World Cup.

Is the USA vs. Belgium Match Streaming On Peacock In English?

No. The World Cup is solely streaming live in Spanish on Peacock—specifically Peacock Premium, which costs $10.99/month or $109.99/year— as well as on Telemundo and NBC Universo.

How To Watch the USA vs. Belgium World Cup 2026 Match in English:

For viewers at home, FOX Sports is the English-language home for World Cup viewers. World Cup games, like tonight’s matchup between the USA and Belgium, air live in English on FOX and FOX Sports’ cable channel, FS1.

FOX One subscribers can also stream every World Cup 2026 game live in English. A FOX One subscription costs $19.99/month, or $199.99/year.

Shoppers Trapped Inside After Roof Collapse at New Jersey BJ’s, Rescue Teams Respond

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An extensive emergency operation unfolded in Monmouth County, New Jersey, on Monday following the partial collapse of a roof at BJ’s Wholesale Club. This incident trapped several individuals inside amid adverse weather conditions.

Shortly after 11:15 a.m. local time, emergency responders quickly arrived at the wholesale store located on Route 35 in Ocean Township, responding to reports of the sudden collapse, as confirmed by the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office.

Dramatic footage seemed to capture unsuspecting customers browsing groceries mere moments before the roof gave way, allowing torrents of water to flood the premises.

Officials confirmed that 27 individuals were present inside at the event’s onset; fortunately, no injuries were documented.

The Monmouth County Sheriff's Office was spotted at the scene of a roof collapse at BJ's Wholesale Club in Ocean Township, New Jersey.

The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office was observed onsite at the BJ’s Wholesale location in Ocean Township following the roof collapse. (Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office)

Two people were partially entrapped in the debris but managed to free themselves and safely escape the building.

Emergency teams deployed specialized rescue units to ensure the building was clear, conducting primary and secondary searches, according to the sheriff’s office.

The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office interior drone searched the structurally compromised building, along with New Jersey Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) K-9 teams.

Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden praised the first responders for working “seamlessly together” despite the severe weather and ongoing flooding plaguing the local communities.

“This incident is another reminder of how quickly severe weather can create dangerous and unpredictable conditions,” Golden said.

BJ's store flooded with debris everywhere after part of the roof collapsed

Authorities said 27 people were inside, two were briefly partially trapped, and no injuries were reported after rescue crews searched and cleared the damaged building. (X/ @jamelholley)

Ocean Township Police Chief Michael Sorrentino urged motorists and residents to stay away from the area as emergency operations continue.

Travelers are asked to avoid Route 35, Park Avenue and Deal Road, specifically the stretch between Routes 18 and 35.

Lauren Bennett of ‘Party Rock Anthem’ Fame Laid to Rest at 36

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In a heartfelt ceremony, the family and friends of singer Lauren Bennett gathered in London for a private memorial, honoring her after her untimely passing at the age of 36.

Lauren, known for her time with a popular girl group and collaboration with LMFAO, passed away on May 29 in Kent, England. Former GRL bandmates and other close ones attended her farewell service, as reported by TMZ.

Members of the Paradiso Girls, another group she was once a part of, were also there to pay their respects during the intimate gathering that took place a little over a week ago.

In a moving gesture, attendees wrote heartfelt messages on balloons, which were then released into the sky as a final tribute to remember Lauren and her impact on their lives.

The service included a poignant display featuring a photograph of Bennett, accompanied by the words, ‘Celebrating the Life of Lauren Bennett. Forever Loved. Forever With Us.’

A formal inquest into the star’s sudden death has been scheduled for October 30. The investigation will be led by a coroner, who will look into the exact circumstances surrounding her unexpected death. 

Singer Lauren Bennett's family and friends have already held a private memorial service for the star in London, following her sudden death at 36; She is seen in 2015

Singer Lauren Bennett’s family and friends have already held a private memorial service for the star in London, following her sudden death at 36; She is seen in 2015

Bennett was best known for her feature spot on 2011 chart-topping hit Party Rock Anthem - pictured with LMFAO's Redfoo and Skyblu in 2011

Bennett was best known for her feature spot on 2011 chart-topping hit Party Rock Anthem – pictured with LMFAO’s Redfoo and Skyblu in 2011

Bennett was best known for her feature spot on 2011 chart-topping hit Party Rock Anthem, and her time in band GRL. 

Her ex-bandmates confirmed her death in a heartbreaking statement on Monday which read, ‘It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren.

‘Our hearts are broken, and we cannot begin to express how much she meant to us. We will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories she gave us. 

‘Her beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved.

‘Rest peacefully, sweet Lauren. You will always be in our hearts. Your GRLS, Em, Tash, and P.’

A cause of death has not been publicly announced. The Daily Mail has contacted representatives for Bennett for further comment. 

Bennett’s final Instagram post was shared on February 22 and showed the singer performing a cover of Nancy Sinatra’s These Boots Are Made For Walkin’. 

The death comes 12 years after Bennett’s GRL bandmate Simone Battle died by suicide aged 25. 

The band, created as a reboot of the Pussycat Dolls and formed by Robin Antin, was also comprised of Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton and Paula Van Oppen.

Bennett is survived by one daughter, Harlow, aged six, who she shares with dancer and Footloose actor Kenny Wormald.

The English singer first landed in the music industry in short-lived girl group, The Paradiso Girls, featuring members from different countries.

The group included Chelsea Korka from the United States, Aria Crescendo from France, Shar Mae Amor from the Philippines, and Bennett and Kelly Beckett from the United Kingdom.

The former girlband star, who died on May 29 in Kent, England, was laid to rest during the ceremony, which was held about a week and a half ago and was attended by her former GRL bandmates, as per TMZ; Seen in 2014

The former girlband star, who died on May 29 in Kent, England, was laid to rest during the ceremony, which was held about a week and a half ago and was attended by her former GRL bandmates, as per TMZ; Seen in 2014 

The death comes 12 years after Bennett's GRL bandmate Simone Battle (seen center in 2013) died by suicide aged 25 - Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton and Paula Van Oppen also pictured

The death comes 12 years after Bennett’s GRL bandmate Simone Battle (seen center in 2013) died by suicide aged 25 – Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton and Paula Van Oppen also pictured

Her ex-bandmates confirmed her death in a heartbreaking statement on Monday which read, 'It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren'

Her ex-bandmates confirmed her death in a heartbreaking statement on Monday which read, ‘It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren’

They released debut single Patron Tequila featuring Lil Jon and Eve in 2009 – but later disbanded in 2010.

Her former bandmate Crescendo wrote on Instagram, ‘RIP Lauren my sister my best friend I can’t believe you left us . We spoke a week before it all happened and I could not imagine that would be the last time I would be able to talk to you.

‘Love you and miss you forever.’

Her biggest hit came in 2011 with Party Rock Anthem, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 charts for six weeks.

She later became the first member of Antin’s newest band, later known as GRL. 

The group sang song Vacation for the Smurfs 2 soundtrack, joining pop legend Britney Spears on the track list.

GRL later collaborated with Pitbull on 2014 song, Wild Wild Love. Their biggest hit as a group was Ugly Heart which peaked at 2 on the Australian charts. 

Battle died in September 2014 with the band releasing tribute single Lighthouse in January 2015. On 2 June 2015, the group officially disbanded.

Bennett is survived by one daughter, Harlow, aged six, who she shares with dancer and Footloose actor Kenny Wormald, 41

Bennett is survived by one daughter, Harlow, aged six, who she shares with dancer and Footloose actor Kenny Wormald, 41

Bennett is pictured in the 2011 music video for Party Rock Anthem

Bennett is pictured in the 2011 music video for Party Rock Anthem

Bennett is pictured at the 2011 American Music Awards

Bennett is pictured at the 2011 American Music Awards

GRL collaborated with Pitbull on 2014 song Wild Wild Love - pictured performing at the iHeartRadio Music Awards

GRL collaborated with Pitbull on 2014 song Wild Wild Love – pictured performing at the iHeartRadio Music Awards

The English singer first landed in the music industry in short-lived girl group, The Paradiso Girls, featuring members from different countries - pictured 2010 with members Chelsea Korka, Aria Crescendo, Kelly Beckett and Shar Mae Amor

The English singer first landed in the music industry in short-lived girl group, The Paradiso Girls, featuring members from different countries – pictured 2010 with members Chelsea Korka, Aria Crescendo, Kelly Beckett and Shar Mae Amor

Crescendo paid tribute to Bennett on Instagram after her death was announced

Crescendo paid tribute to Bennett on Instagram after her death was announced

Bennett is pictured with mentor and GRL creator Robin Antin in 2012

Bennett is pictured with mentor and GRL creator Robin Antin in 2012

In 2015, months after the suicide of Battle, Bennett spoke out on her grief and opened up the group’s final rehearsal as a five. 

‘You can never prepare yourself for something like this, ever,’ Bennett told PEOPLE.

‘We’d just been in rehearsals the day before, learning choreography for our show, and the next day we were starting the morning as usual when we got the call.’ 

 ‘I still can’t believe it. I don’t think any of us can. It’s weird that we’re even sitting here, talking about it.’

Van Oppen said that time has allowed them to regroup and process what happened to Battle.

‘She was such a strong woman, and very independent, and we had no idea what she was going through, or her pain,’ Van Oppen says. 

‘We admire how prideful she was, but now we just wish she’d let us in a little bit so maybe we could have helped her. 

‘Now we want to spread that message that it’s okay to talk about, and help people, maybe even change the world.’  

Following Battle’s death, TMZ reported that she was ‘depressed over money issues’.

Bennett later briefly reformed GRL with Slayton and new member Jazzy Mejia in 2016, and released track, Are We Good? - but the band later ended once again - pictured 2016

Bennett later briefly reformed GRL with Slayton and new member Jazzy Mejia in 2016, and released track, Are We Good? – but the band later ended once again – pictured 2016

Her family said they didn’t understand her money struggles because she was enjoying success with the girl group, including a collaboration with Pitbull, and had just finished a tour overseas at the time.

The family also reportedly told police that Battle had been worried she would never make it big.

Battle first started singing professionally after her breakout on the U.S. version of the X Factor in 2011. She made it to the top 17 and was mentored by judge Simon Cowell.

Bennett later briefly reformed GRL with Slayton and new member Jazzy Mejia in 2016, and released track, Are We Good? – but the band later ended once again.

If you or someone you know needs help, please call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US on 988. There is also an online chat available at 988lifeline.org 

Former Civil Rights Commissioner Ends Lawsuit Against Trump Following Supreme Court Decision

NEW YORK – A former Democratic commissioner from a leading civil rights agency has withdrawn her lawsuit against President Donald Trump regarding her dismissal. The decision follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that significantly extended the president’s authority over independent agencies.

Jocelyn Samuels and another Democrat were unexpectedly removed from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) by Trump. This gave the president a substantial opportunity to reshape civil rights enforcement, targeting diversity practices, easing transgender worker protections, and focusing on discrimination claims involving white and U.S.-born workers.

On Monday, the EEOC took further steps in this new direction by introducing a regulatory agenda. The proposals aim to halt the collection of annual workplace demographic data and withdraw previous guidance that considered requiring English-only workplace policies potentially discriminatory, among other proposed changes.

One of Trump’s initial actions upon assuming office was to dissolve the Democratic majority on the five-member EEOC, clearing a major hurdle for implementing his civil rights objectives. His decision to remove Samuels and Charlotte Burrows before completing their five-year tenures was unprecedented since the EEOC’s establishment by the 1964 Civil Rights Act.

Currently, the EEOC is composed of two Republicans and one Democrat, while two seats remain vacant, awaiting nominations by Trump.

In her lawsuit, Samuels had argued that Congress established that the EEOC commissioners, who are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate, would serve staggered terms to ensure “continuity, stability and insulation from political pressure.”

But in a statement Monday, Samuels said she was dismissing her lawsuit because the Supreme Court’s ruling in a separate case “leaves me without a viable path forward to continue contesting my termination.”

Last week, the Supreme Court upheld Trump’s firing of the heads of independent agencies, with the exception of the Federal Reserve, jettisoning a 91-year-old decision that had limited when presidents can fire board members of independent agencies.

EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas applauded the Supreme Court’s ruling in a LinkedIn post last week, saying that it reinforced that the “EEOC is an executive branch agency.”

In a statement Monday about the new regulatory agenda, an EEOC spokesperson said the agency is “committed to implementing President Trump’s landmark civil rights agenda, dedicated to evenhanded enforcement of federal civil rights laws.”

The EEOC’s sole Democratic commissioner, Kalpana Kotagal, voted against the agenda, saying in a statement that “the proposed changes weaken civil rights protections for workers and undermine the agency’s investigative and enforcement efforts.”

The regulatory agenda includes a proposal to end a 40-year requirement for companies with 100 or more employees, or federal contractors with at least 50 workers, to submit workforce demographic data to the EEOC.

Lucas has publicly warned companies not to use such demographic data to justify what she describes as potentially discriminatory practices to bolster the diversity for their workforce. In its proposed rescission, the EEOC said requirements impose “significant financial and administrative burdens on the nation’s employers.” The rescission will almost certainly be approved by the EEOC commission but it will then be subject to a public commentary period before final passage.

Conservative critics have said demographic data encourages the EEOC to assume that discrimination is behind any gender or racial imbalance in a company’s workforce. Supporters say the EEOC has used the annual surveys to help identify discriminatory patterns, guide its priorities and help track how women and minorities have fared since the passage of the Civil Rights Act.

“The EEOC has collected this data from employers for six decades. It’s difficult to understand why the agency would kneecap its ability to investigate discrimination, particularly at a time when the EEOC is chronically understaffed and underfunded,” Kotagal said.

The EEOC also announced its intent to rescind 1980 guidelines defining national origin-based discrimination, which warns employers that any requirement for workers to exclusively speak English may “create an atmosphere of inferiority, isolation and intimidation based on national origin which could result in a discriminatory working environment.” The EEOC argued that the guidelines are outdated and incorrectly established a “presumption that English-only rules violate Title VII in some circumstances.”

Last week, the EEOC voted to toss out longstanding guidelines on what sort of voluntary affirmative action employers can take to improve job opportunities for women and minorities without violating Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which prohibits employers from making employment decisions based on race, color, national origin, sex and religion. The EEOC reversed its stance that employers could pursue some programs, such as training for women and minorities or steps to expand recruitment pools, without running afoul of Title VII.

Also on the EEOC’s agenda is revising regulations for enforcing the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, a law that entitles women to seek workplace accommodations for pregnancy and related medical conditions. Lucas opposed the Biden-era regulations for including abortion as a circumstance allowing accommodations, such as time off for medical appointments.

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Lawsuit Alleges Firefighter Mishap Led to Fatal Fall from Chair

Left inset: Ronald Shuck. Right inset: The office chair purportedly used by Phoenix firefighters in their attempt to move Ronald Shuck. Background: The staircase where the incident involving Phoenix firefighters allegedly took place, before they accidentally dropped Ronald Shuck (KPNX/YouTube).

An elderly Arizona man’s life took a tragic turn after firefighters attempted to transport him down a short flight of stairs using what has been described as a “cheap roller chair” without armrests, instead of a proper gurney. The 76-year-old, Ronald Shuck, suffered grievous head and back injuries from the fall, ultimately leaving him in a vegetative state from which he never recovered, his family asserts.

In response to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Ronald Shuck’s widow in 2024, the city of Phoenix has consented to a $605,000 settlement. The suit accuses the Phoenix Fire Department of gross negligence due to inadequate training for the firefighters who attended to Shuck in January 2024, following a distress call made by his wife.

The settlement was officially sanctioned after the Phoenix City Council’s unanimous vote during a session held on July 1, as reflected in online public records.

“On around January 5, 2024, decedent Ronald Shuck was unable to rise from the toilet,” states the legal filing by his wife. “Firefighters from the City of Phoenix were dispatched to their residence, where they placed Ronald into a wheeled office chair to evaluate his vital signs. Post-assessment, they suggested that Ronald be transported to the hospital via ambulance for further examination.”

Once the ambulance arrived, four of the firefighters allegedly attempted to use the desk chair to lift Shuck “up from his porch” and “walk down the four steps at the entry/exit of the Shuck’s trailer home,” the complaint said.

Shuck was facing backward when the firefighters allegedly dropped him as they proceeded down the steps. This caused Shuck to “fall out of the chair backwards hitting the concrete stairs, cement, and then the ground with his head and upper back,” according to the complaint. His wife allegedly saw everything unfold as Shuck broke his back and neck.

“Ronald immediately complained of intense head pain and back pain,” the document alleged. “The City of Phoenix Firefighters failed to provide Ronald Shuck with a safe transfer. The firefighters’ actions were grossly negligent.”

After allegedly dropping Shuck, the firefighters transported him to the hospital where he was “diagnosed with injuries caused by the drop,” per the complaint. “As a result of the defendants’ negligence, Ronald Shuck died,” the document said.

“He was unable to walk and should have been carried out to the ambulance on a gurney and/or proper transport device with restraints and straps,” the complaint concluded. “The defendants and each of them, recklessly created an unsafe condition. The defendants knew or should have known that they created or allowed to exist a hazardous and dangerous situation in which a member of the general public could be injured.”

Shuck’s son, Ryan Shuck, told local NBC affiliate KPNX in February 2024 that his father was “not a small person,” so he doesn’t understand why the firefighters would “choose” to use a “cheap roller chair with no armrests” instead of a gurney. Ronald Shuck died on Jan. 23, 2024.

“Someone should suffer the consequences for what they did,” he said. “He could no longer move or talk, or eat or drink. Watching him take his last breath was probably the hardest moment of my life.”

The city of Phoenix did not respond to Law&Crime’s requests for comment Monday.

Schumer and Gillibrand Urge Graham Platner to Exit Maine Senate Race Amid Rape Allegation

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In a forceful move on Monday, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, alongside DSCC Chairwoman Kirsten Gillibrand, urged Graham Platner to quickly exit the Maine Senate race following serious accusations leveled against him. The Democratic candidate finds himself embroiled in controversy after an allegation of rape surfaced, brought forth by a former girlfriend.

Schumer and Gillibrand, both New York Democrats, issued a statement through the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, expressing profound concern over the matter. “The allegations reported today are incredibly disturbing – violence, abuse, and sexual assault are absolutely unacceptable,” they declared, underscoring the gravity of the accusations.

The statement continued with a clear call for action. “Graham Platner needs to immediately withdraw as the Democratic nominee for Senate and allow Maine Democrats the opportunity to choose a new candidate who can defeat Susan Collins,” Schumer and Gillibrand insisted, signaling a desire for the party to pivot swiftly from the controversy.

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner speaks into a microphone at a town hall.

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Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., talks with reporters.

ZUMAPRESS.com

The Democratic leaders also issued a stern warning to Platner, indicating that the Senate Democrats’ campaign machinery and fundraising resources would not support the Maine Senate race should he choose to remain on the ballot. This places additional pressure on Platner as the party looks to ensure electoral competitiveness free from scandal.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Tragic Discovery: Body Matching Missing Teen Nolan Wells Located Off Mississippi Coast Ending Search Efforts

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Authorities have ended the search for a Mississippi teenager who vanished over the holiday weekend after discovering a body that fits his description on Monday morning.

Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter reported that at around 8:45 a.m. local time on Monday, a body was found in the water near the northwest tip of Horn Island. This information was confirmed by a report from the New York Post.

Although the body has not been officially identified, Sheriff Ledbetter informed the media that it “does match the description” of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells.

On Monday afternoon, the volunteer organization United Cajun Navy announced that they had halted their search efforts.

Nolan Xavier Wells on a boat.

According to local authorities, Nolan Xavier Wells went missing on July 4th while out boating with friends. (Jackson County Sheriff’s Department via Facebook)

“On behalf of the United Cajun Navy, we extend our deepest condolences to Nolan’s family, friends, teammates, and everyone whose lives were touched by him,” the organization wrote in a statement on Facebook. “We are grateful that Nolan’s family entrusted us to assist in this search.”

“… Our teams were proud to provide aerial search operations, boats, and boots on the ground in support of the effort,” the organization continued. “Please continue to keep Nolan’s loved ones in your prayers as they grieve this devastating loss. Rest easy, Nolan. You will not be forgotten.”

The United Cajun Navy shared a video of the search Monday morning on Facebook.

The United Cajun Navy shared a video of the search Monday morning on Facebook. (United Cajun Navy via Facebook)

Wells was last seen on the Fourth of July near Horn Island, according to authorities. A photo shared with police showed the teen smiling with friends on a boat that afternoon.

Search teams from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, Department of Marine Resources, Gulf Islands National Seashore and U.S. Coast Guard combed the island and surrounding waters, establishing a centralized command post at the Lake Mars Boat Launch in Ocean Springs to coordinate the multi-agency effort.

Following the discovery of the body, Wells’ mother shared an emotional message on Facebook.

“His father, our family, friends and I are absolutely devastated,” Christine Wonsley wrote. “My heart [is] broken for my sweet son who was always willing to cheer and uplift others. Nolan was a special soul, God took his time creating our son. I ask that you please give me and my family time to grieve.”

Wonsley and her husband previously posted updates pleading for any photos or videos from the Fourth of July to help track Wells’ last known movements.

Members of the Cajun Navy, a volunteer rescue organization, shared video searching for the missing teen on Monday morning.

Members of the Cajun Navy, a volunteer rescue organization, shared video searching for the missing teen on Monday morning. (United Cajun Navy via Facebook)

“We have so many questions,” she wrote prior to the recovery of the body. “Our hearts are breaking, we keep waiting for Nolan to walk through that door with his beautiful smile and a joke of course.”

Amid their grief, the family is also warning the community about online scammers attempting to capitalize on the tragedy.

“I want you all to know a GoFund Me HAS NOT been created by myself, husband, family or friends,” Wonsley wrote in a separate post. “So if you see any please report that is not authentic. We will notify everyone if we choose to create one.”

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department did not immediately respond to inquiries from News Media.