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Manchester, UK – Labour is demanding that Reform UK’s candidate in the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election, Matt Goodwin, publicly denounce what they describe as “racist content” shared by members of his campaign team. The call comes following an investigation by the Manchester Mill, which revealed a pattern of problematic online posts and affiliations with far-right groups among individuals supporting Goodwin’s bid for Parliament. The by-election, scheduled for February 26th, is shaping up to be a closely contested race, with Labour’s significant 13,000-vote majority potentially vulnerable to challenges from both Reform UK and the Green Party.

The controversy centers on allegations surrounding Adam Mitula, Goodwin’s interim campaign manager in Tameside. According to the Manchester Mill’s report, Mitula has made deeply offensive statements online, including suggesting that “60-70%” of transgender people are paedophiles, expressing a refusal to interact with Jewish women, and using a racial slur. These posts, alongside others identified by the anti-fascist campaign group Hope Not Hate, have prompted Labour to question Goodwin’s judgment and the values of his campaign.

Campaign Manager’s Online Activity Under Scrutiny

The investigation highlighted several disturbing posts attributed to Mitula. He reportedly claimed the existence of “Muslim no-go ghettos in the UK” and made disparaging remarks about Black fathers, stating they were “the best in leaving muims [sic] with no support.” Further scrutiny revealed Mitula’s support for Andrew Tate, the controversial online influencer currently under investigation in Romania and the UK on suspicion of human trafficking and rape. In September 2023, Mitula described Tate as “well said by potentially future prime minister” following an interview with Piers Morgan, as reported by The Guardian.

The concerns extend beyond Mitula. The Manchester Mill also reported on Kelly Cooling, pictured campaigning with Goodwin, who allegedly demonstrated support for the far-right Britain First party last summer. Alanna Vine, another campaign supporter, was reportedly suspended by the Conservative party in 2022 due to “social media posts which were deemed discriminatory towards those of the Islamic faith,” according to the report.

Goodwin’s Campaign Faces Mounting Criticism

Goodwin’s campaign has been plagued by controversy since his candidacy was announced in late January. Recent accusations include claims that he advocates for a restrictive social agenda, stemming from a 2024 YouTube video in which he called for “young girls and women” to be given a “biological reality” check. He also faced criticism for a December 2023 comment where he described as “insane” the 18-month prison sentence given to Luke Yarwood for inciting racial hatred and calling for violence against migrants, as detailed by The Independent. Yarwood had posted calls to “burn them to the ground” referring to hotels housing migrants.

In a letter to Goodwin, Lucy Powell, Labour’s deputy leader, urged him to take decisive action. “You may not have been aware of these comments when they offered to help your campaign, but you are aware of it now,” Powell wrote. “You can ensure that they are not part of your campaign in the future, make clear that you disagree with their vile views, and state clearly that racism and conspiracism like this is not welcome in Reform and not compatible with campaigning for you.” Powell warned that failure to address the issue would lead to the conclusion that Reform UK condones such views.

Reform UK and Mitula have been contacted for comment, but have not yet responded, according to HuffPost UK.

What’s Next for the Gorton and Denton By-Election?

The allegations against Goodwin’s campaign team raise serious questions about the direction of Reform UK and its appeal to voters in a diverse constituency like Gorton and Denton. The coming days will be crucial as Goodwin faces mounting pressure to address the concerns and demonstrate a clear commitment to inclusivity and respect. The outcome of the by-election, and how voters respond to these allegations, could have significant implications for both Reform UK and Labour’s political strategies moving forward.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.

French President Emmanuel Macron has publicly designated the La France Insoumise (LFI) party as “far-left,” raising concerns about what he described as antisemitic expressions emerging within the movement. The remarks, made during a radio interview broadcast Sunday, February 15, 2026, underscore a growing political rift and fuel debate over the boundaries of acceptable discourse in French politics. This classification, recently decided by the Ministry of the Interior, is contested by LFI itself.

Macron’s statements, delivered in an interview with Radio J, arrive after a week of heightened scrutiny regarding antisemitism in French political life. He asserted that LFI’s positions, particularly on the issue of antisemitism, “contravene fundamental principles of the Republic.” He added that there are “clearly antisemitic expressions emerging, which must be combatted, wherever they come from,” drawing a parallel with similar concerns within the Rassemblement National, the far-right party led by Marine Le Pen.

The President’s comments follow his condemnation of “the antisemitic hydra” during a tribute to Ilan Halimi on Friday, February 14, 2026, a young Jewish man who was kidnapped, tortured, and murdered in 2006. Macron then advocated for mandatory ineligibility for elected officials convicted of antisemitic, racist, or discriminatory acts. “The government will present such a text,” he stated on Radio J, expressing confidence that the law could be passed by Parliament before 2027.

Manuel Bompard, the coordinator of La France Insoumise, swiftly responded to Macron’s accusations, arguing that it is “not the role of the President of the Republic to classify his political opponents.” Bompard, speaking on LCI, accused Macron of adopting tactics reminiscent of former U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting that disagreement equates to extremism. He also refuted the antisemitism allegations, emphasizing that “no member of La France Insoumise has ever been convicted of antisemitism.”

Government Proposal and Broader Concerns

Macron’s call for a law mandating ineligibility for elected officials found guilty of antisemitic acts signals a hardening stance against what he perceives as rising intolerance. The proposed legislation aims to address a perceived gap in existing legal frameworks and send a strong message against hate speech. The President also addressed concerns regarding Al-Jazira, stating he did not desire to engage in “stigmatization,” but acknowledged that content disseminated by the Qatar-based news channel, and others, can “fuel, exacerbate hatred of Jews and create fractures in our society.”

The debate extends beyond LFI, with Macron also referencing the need to uphold the rule of law in light of recent comments made by Bruno Retailleau, a candidate for the 2027 presidential election from the Les Républicains party. Even as Macron stated he hadn’t listened to Retailleau’s remarks, he stressed the importance of respecting checks and balances and avoiding any actions that could undermine the French Constitution.

Retailleau responded to Macron’s comments, asserting that France “needs a rupture” and labeling the President an “advocate for an immobile France” that has “failed to reform the country.”

Eurodeputy Complaint and Legal Scrutiny

The President also addressed the case of Rima Hassan, a La France Insoumise Member of the European Parliament (MEP) who is facing a complaint from Le Parisien newspaper following a post on X (formerly Twitter) targeting one of its journalists. Macron indicated that existing criminal circulars issued by the Minister of Justice to combat antisemitism would be applied to the case.

The classification of LFI as “far-left” is not new, but Macron’s explicit endorsement of the label adds weight to the categorization. According to Wikipedia, the party has been described as both left-wing and far-left, with the latter label often used by critics. The Ministry of the Interior recently adopted the “far-left” classification for the 2026 municipal elections.

The ongoing debate highlights the complex political landscape in France and the challenges of addressing antisemitism while upholding freedom of speech and the rule of law. The proposed legislation and Macron’s strong rhetoric signal a commitment to confronting these issues, but also raise questions about the potential for political overreach and the definition of acceptable political discourse.

What comes next will be the presentation of the government’s proposed legislation on ineligibility for elected officials convicted of hate crimes, and the subsequent debate and vote in Parliament. The outcome of this legislative effort will likely shape the political landscape in France for years to come.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.

INGLEWOOD, CA – The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is underway, featuring a revamped format with three teams – USA Stars, USA Stripes, and Team World – competing in a round-robin tournament. Toronto Raptors fans have multiple reasons to tune in, with Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram suiting up for the USA teams, and Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic leading Team World. The latest structure, designed to inject more competitiveness into the exhibition game, has already delivered some exciting moments, including a game-winning shot from De’Aaron Fox of Team Stripes.

The shift from the traditional East vs. West format follows a largely unsuccessful attempt at a four-team tournament last year, according to reports. This year’s iteration aims to create higher stakes with the USA versus the World dynamic. Each game in the tournament is a quick 12-minute affair, culminating in a championship game between the top two teams. The selection process involved a mix of fan, media, and player votes for starters, with coaches selecting the reserves, though adjustments were made by Adam Silver to balance the rosters.

The action kicked off with a thrilling contest between USA Stars and Team World, ultimately decided by a buzzer-beater from Scottie Barnes. Barnes finished with an impressive stat line of 3 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, one steal, and one block. The game went to overtime tied at 32-32, with the first team to five points claiming victory. Barnes’ clutch shot secured the win for the USA Stars. Earlier in the game, Barnes also showcased his defensive prowess with a key block on Canadian Jamal Murray, demonstrating his all-around impact.

Game Highlights and Key Performances

De’Aaron Fox of Team Stripes followed up Barnes’ heroics with a game-winning three-pointer of his own, securing a victory for his team. Prior to Fox’s winning shot, the USA Stripes held a 19-15 lead five minutes into the game. Throughout the first matchup, Barnes and Ingram faced off, with Ingram reportedly being “locked up” defensively by Cade Cunningham on multiple possessions. Barnes also ran a baseline dribble handoff with Cunningham, resulting in a three-point attempt.

Team World, coached by Rajakovic, mounted a 14-2 run fueled by Karl-Anthony Towns’ deep three-point shooting. Victor Wembanyama also made an immediate impact for Team World, scoring all seven of his team’s initial points. Scottie Barnes checked into the game for the USA Stars and contributed a rebound, while also demonstrating his defensive capabilities.

Roster Breakdown and Notable Absences

The USA Stars roster includes Barnes, alongside Devin Booker, Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, Anthony Edwards, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Johnson, and Tyrese Maxey, coached by J.B. Bickerstaff. The USA Stripes features Ingram, Jaylen Brown, Jalen Brunson, the injured Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, De’Aaron Fox, LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, and Donovan Mitchell, under the guidance of Mitch Johnson. Team World boasts Giannis Antetokounmpo (injured), Deni Avdija, Luka Dončić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (injured), Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, Norman Powell, Alperen Şengün, Pascal Siakam, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Victor Wembanyama.

Several key players are sidelined due to injury, including Stephen Curry for Team Stripes, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for Team World. De’Aaron Fox was initially selected as an injury replacement for Antetokounmpo but will play for Team Stripes due to Curry’s injury, highlighting the complexities of the roster adjustments this year. Alperen Şengün was chosen as an injury replacement for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on Team World, as reported by Fansided.

What’s Next in the All-Star Tournament

Following the USA Stripes’ victory, the next matchup will pit Team Stripes against Team World. The tournament schedule continues with USA Stripes facing the loser of the first game, and a championship game between the top two teams. Raptors fans will be closely watching both Barnes and Ingram as they compete throughout the tournament, and will undoubtedly be cheering on Coach Darko as he leads Team World.

The 2026 NBA All-Star Game format represents a significant change to the traditional event, and the early games have already provided exciting moments. The remainder of the tournament promises to deliver more competitive basketball and showcase the league’s brightest stars. Share your thoughts on the new format and the Raptors’ representation in the comments below!

Cheyenne—A bill clarifying the legality of “corner crossing” in Wyoming—the act of stepping from one tract of public land to another at a common corner where adjoining parcels are private—has cleared early hurdles in the state legislature. House Bill 19, dubbed “Corner crossing clarification,” aims to codify existing legal precedent and provide clarity for recreationists and law enforcement.

The issue centers on access to public lands locked by private property. Corner crossing allows hunters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts to legally access isolated parcels of public land without needing permission from landowners. Even as affirmed by state and federal courts, including a ruling by the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, the practice has remained a source of contention and legal uncertainty. This bill seeks to resolve that ambiguity.

Casper Representative Steve Harshman, a longtime high school football coach, likened the bill’s progress to being “at like yard 2 of a 100-yard dash” during a Thursday meeting of the House Travel, Recreation, Wildlife and Cultural Resources Committee, according to WyoFile. The committee’s meeting drew a large crowd, including members of the Wyoming Wildlife Federation’s “Camo at the Capitol” advocacy training program.

The bill’s purpose, as explained by Casper attorney Ryan Semerad, who represented four corner-crossing hunters in a years-long legal battle, is to “put that 10th Circuit decision into concrete terms in our green books for law enforcement officers.” Semerad told the committee this would prevent unnecessary legal battles and resource expenditure, allowing officers to confidently state that corner crossing is not a crime. The 10th Circuit decision affirmed the legality of the practice, but a clear state statute is seen as crucial for consistent enforcement.

Representative Harshman, a Natrona County Republican and former Speaker of the House, emphasized that the bill’s passage is not yet assured. The legislation was drafted last year by the same committee and builds upon previous discussions regarding public land access.

Legislative Context and Recent Disputes

The corner crossing bill comes amidst broader debates within the Wyoming legislature. Recently, Representative Harshman considered seeking a reprimand for fellow lawmaker John Bear, a Gillette Republican, over accusations made in a guest column. According to WyoFile, Bear accused non-Freedom Caucus lawmakers of being unduly influenced by lobbyists. Harshman ultimately decided against bringing a motion, but the incident highlights the ongoing tensions within the statehouse.

Impact on Public Land Access

The passage of House Bill 19 could significantly impact access to approximately 800,000 acres of landlocked public lands in Wyoming, according to estimates from the Wyoming Wildlife Federation. Currently, navigating these areas requires careful consideration of property boundaries and potential legal challenges. A clear legal framework would provide greater certainty for recreationists and reduce the risk of trespassing charges.

The bill is of particular interest to hunters and anglers, who often rely on access to public lands for their activities. The Wyoming Wildlife Federation has been a vocal advocate for corner crossing rights, arguing that it is essential for preserving access to public resources. The organization’s “Camo at the Capitol” event demonstrates the strong grassroots support for the legislation.

What comes next for House Bill 19 is further consideration by the Wyoming legislature. The bill will need to pass through additional committees and ultimately receive a vote by the full House, and Senate. The outcome will likely depend on continued advocacy from groups like the Wyoming Wildlife Federation and the willingness of lawmakers to address the ongoing challenges of public land access in the state.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below. And be sure to share this article with anyone interested in Wyoming’s public lands and access issues.