free html hit counter USA Update – Page 561 – My Blog

USA Update

Category Added in a WPeMatico Campaign

When Reeves hikes our taxes to fund spending splurge we won’t be thanking her – it’s a high-stakes bid take on Farage

ALMOST in every breath today Rachel Reeves spoke of making “Labour choices”.

But that is not the cuddly, Tory-lite Labour that we were promised before the election.

Rachel Reeves presenting her Spending Review to Parliament.
AFP
Chancellor Rachel Reeves presenting her Spending Review on Wednesday[/caption]
Rachel Reeves presenting her Spending Review to Parliament.
AFP
Rachel Reeves seen in the House of Commons, discussing her Spending Review[/caption]

Instead she has reached for the party’s old comfort blanket of higher taxes, higher borrowing and higher spending.

Her massive spree means she can point to shiny news infrastructure projects and talk the language of “renewal”.

But she is now running the economy at its uppermost limits after failing to get any serious grip on welfare and our spiralling debt.

It is a high-stakes gambit designed to win over working class voters that Labour is bleeding to Reform – who the Chancellor noticeably devoted time to attacking today.

Many of those flocking to Nigel Farage do so out of growing despair that – in his words – “Britain is broken”.

It is why she made big plays on ploughing money into defence, the NHS and ending migrant hotels.

But they won’t thank the Chancellor if it means putting their taxes up even more in the Autumn…

It hasn’t been an easy 11 months for Ms Reeves – in fact, it has been brutal.

Her short Chancellorship has been blighted by the winter fuel debacle, fury over tax hikes, angry farmers and rows over welfare spending.

A YouGov survey today found just 12 per cent of voters think she is doing a good job.

Ms Reeves will hope today marks the point those paltry popularity numbers start to rise.

Or it could be the moment where things start to get even worse.

Nigel Farage speaking at a Reform UK press conference.
Getty
The Chancellor devoted time to attacking Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party[/caption]

Read More »

Sabrina Carpenter strips down to her bra and underwear for a bath with PIGS as she announces new album

SABRINA Carpenter sent fans wild as she stripped off to pose in a bath with PIGS after announcing her new album. 

The Espresso hitmaker, 26, revealed today that Man’s Best Friend will be released on August 29. 

Sabrina Carpenter shares BHS look at her Manchild video shoot.
Sabrina stripped off to take a bath with some pigs in BTS snaps from her recent video
Instagram
Sabrina Carpenter shares BHS look at her Manchild video shoot.
The singer stunned in a cropped pink jacket and skirt
Instagram
Sabrina Carpenter shares BHS look at her Manchild video shoot.
She once again posed in her pants while running on the shoot
Instagram

And she celebrated the news by sharing some behind the scenes snaps from the video of her latest single Manchild. 

One of the photos showed Sabrina wearing nothing but her underwear as she took a bubble bath with two pigs. 

The pop star was seen smiling for the camera in the tub with her thumbs up, while another snap saw her running in a white shirt and underwear. 

Sabrina captioned the upload: “Manchild bts

“Take a shot every time I wear a new outfit.”

Sabrina also stunned in a cropped pink jacket and matching skirt.

It comes after the release of the single earlier this month, when fans immediately assumed Sabrina took a savage swipe at ex-boyfriend Barry Keoghan

Sharing the news on Instagram, she said: “This one’s about you!! ‘Manchild’ is out this Thursday 6/5 8pm EST.”

While Sabrina didn’t explicitly say it was about Irish actor Barry – who is set to play Ringo Starr in the upcoming four-part Beatles biopic film series – fans wasted no time assuming it was about the pair, considering their split last year. 

Sabrina and Barry were first connected in September 2023, making their first public appearance together at the Grammys after-party in February 2024. 

They later attended the MET Gala together, with Barry being seen on the side of the stage throughout some of Sabrina’s performances. 

The actor, who shot to fame in Saltburn and The Banshees of Inisherin, later had a starring role in her music video for Please Please Please, which depicts the story of a woman deciding to ignore warnings of a potential romance, but begging her love interest not to embarrass her. 

However, in August, The Sun on Sunday confirmed Sabrina dumped Barry after growing tired of his party lifestyle. 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 06: (L-R) Barry Keoghan and Sabrina Carpenter attend The 2024 Met Gala Celebrating "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/MG24/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue)
Fans were convinced Sabrina’s recent single announcment was a dig at Barry
Getty

Read More »

Justin Bieber could be placed in conservatorship by Hailey if she can prove 3 points to court amid his bizarre behavior

JUSTIN Bieber could be placed in a conservatorship by wife Hailey if she can prove three key points to the courts amid his concerning behavior, a legal expert has told The U.S. Sun.

In recent weeks, the pop star has gone on bizarre rants and appeared incoherent in photographs and videos – leading many fans to believe it’s time for Justin, 31, to seek help. 

Justin Bieber standing in front of a snack and ice cream station.
Instagram
Justin Bieber has sparked concern in recent social media posts[/caption]
Hailey Bieber, founder and creative director of Rhode, speaking at a panel.
Getty
Hailey Bieber during The Business of Beauty Global Forum 2025 on June 10, 2025[/caption]

If Justin’s behavior continues to be as dangerous as many believe, it’s not out of the question that he could be placed in a conservatorship for his well-being. 

“As a seasoned attorney, I’ll say this bluntly: If Justin Bieber’s recent behavior is as troubling as reported amidst erratic social media posts, visible signs of impairment, and statements hinting at isolation and emotional instability, then YES, a conservatorship could be considered,” acclaimed lawyer Jamie Wright exclusively told The U.S. Sun. 

However, the decision would not be made lightly, as the powerhouse legal expert made it clear that conservatorships are “legal nuclear options.” 

“In California, a conservatorship is a court-ordered plan where a designated person (conservator) is appointed to manage the affairs, personal care, or finances of an adult deemed unable to manage these on their own. 

“This isn’t just about being ‘out of it’ on Instagram. Courts require substantial medical evidence, and the bar is high.

“Especially post-Britney, with the public and legal community rightfully wary of abuses in the system,” Counselor Wright said of Britney Spears’ unprecedented, and historic, conservatorship case

She went on to explain that in most conservatorship cases, the spouse or parent would have legal standing to file. 

However, in order for Hailey, 28, or Justin’s mom, Pattie Mallette, to have a case, they would need to “demonstrate that Justin is incapable of making rational decisions, poses a risk to himself or others —  including his infant son, or is unable to manage his financial empire,” she claimed. 

Black and white selfie of Justin Bieber.
Instagram
Justin Bieber sparks concern with a series of worrying selfies[/caption]
Justin Bieber lying on the ground, shirtless, holding a phone.
Instagram
The pop star lies on the concrete shirtless in bizarre social media posts[/caption]
Justin Bieber taking a selfie in blue leggings and a teal zip-up hoodie.
Instagram
Many fans have been concerned over Justin’s social media posts[/caption]

“If a conservatorship were granted, it could have profound implications. Legally, Justin could lose control over decisions about his health, money, and even parental rights. 

“Custody of his child could be questioned if there’s evidence he’s an unfit parent. 

“It would certainly put pressure on his marriage with Hailey and would raise serious reputational questions that could derail future endorsements, brand partnerships, and touring plans. 

“He’s young, powerful, and high-profile, so any conservatorship move would face intense public scrutiny and likely pushback. 

Portrait of Jamie E. Wright.
Jamie E. Wright
Powerhouse attorney Jamie E. Wright poses in her Los Angeles office[/caption]

“But when safety, especially of a child, is on the line, no one is untouchable. If this situation escalates, the law will step in. 

“Bottom line, no one wants to see another celebrity conservatorship saga play out — but if the signs are as serious as they seem, it’s not out of the question,” Counselor Wright added. 

‘HE NEEDS HELP’

Recently, Justin sparked concern with a series of comments he’s made online – including openly discussing drug use and being “done with transactional relationships.”

Things escalated further when the Sorry singer took to his Instagram Stories, posting close-up selfies where many said he looked “unwell.”

One slide he shared this week featured a screenshot from an AI chat interface asking: “Has ketamine been used to control people’s emotions?”

The AI chatbot allegedly answered: “There is clear evidence that ketamine has been misused in certain law enforcement scenarios, particularly in ways that amount to chemical restraint or social control.”

In another slide, Justin superimposed text over a photo of himself looking defeated: “This is how I feel after people keep telling me theres more work to do after the ive given everything I have to give.”

Welcome Baby Bieber!

  • The pair announced the birth on August 24, sharing their son’s name, Jack Blues Bieber, for the first time.
  • Justin shared a photo of Hailey’s hand touching their newborn’s foot, which was wrapped in a blanket.
  • Justin’s great-grandfather was Jack Arnold, and his father, Jeremy Bieber, has Jack as a middle name.

He followed up with: “I dont think any of us can handle hearing ‘You just gotta try a little harder and you will be like me.’ It’s not true.

“I listened to those fools who told me to work harder. And there’s no end to trying to earn ur spot in this life because I tried. U have everything u need right now.”

On another snap, he admitted: “We wanna make our life about work so bad. But this life is about God. Loving us so we can love eachother. Quit making ur life about work smh. God will always inspire u to wait to work hard.

“U think if you don’t tell people to work hard that they won’t. Stop playing God please.”

Justin went on: “Conditioning. Will make u feel i didn’t know what the f*** u knew.”

This cryptic post was followed by another black-and-white selfie with the caption: “But I f***in always knew in my gut Jesus was always the answer to pain we are all facing.

“People still keep making me think If I work hard on myself I’ll be better like them. But the harder I work on myself the more I think about myself. I though the point was to think about one another?”

He finished with: “The only thing that helps me to think about others to let go not try harder. Join me in letting go of not trying harder.”

This follows reports that Justin is also facing great financial strain – allegedly owing his former manager, Scooter Braun, over $8 million, audits obtained by TMZ claim.

Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber embracing on a city street.
GC Images
Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber are seen on February 06, 2025 in New York City[/caption]
Justin Bieber kissing Hailey Bieber on the cheek.
Instagram
Justin Bieber holds billionaire wife Hailey Bieber’s chest in cheeky snap after her $1 billion Rhode deal[/caption]
Justin and Hailey Bieber at the 2021 Met Gala.
Getty
Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber attend The 2021 Met Gala Celebrating in NYC[/caption]

Read More »

‘Can’t stand it’ – Aaron Rodgers banned by NFL from using iconic helmet that he’s used for past 20 years

AARON Rodgers has voiced his frustration with the NFL’s decision to ban a helmet brand that he’s worn throughout his 20-year career.

The newly signed Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback opened up about the ban during Tuesday’s mandatory minicamp.

Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets quarterback, at a game.
Getty
Aaron Rodgers cannot use a now-banned helmet he wore last season with the New York Jets[/caption]
Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, throws grass to test the wind.
The newly signed Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback will have to wear a new helmet, and the 41-year-old is not happy about it
Alamy

Rodgers participated in his first workout with the Steelers after signing a one-year, $13.5 million contract with the team last weekend.

The 41-year-old is focused on being comfortable while playing, and that means finding a new helmet.

Rodgers will have to find a new helmet after the NFL banned his preferred helmet in April.

The four-time NFL MVP revealed his disdain for a new helmet he rocked during Tuesday’s first mandatory minicamp session.

“I can’t stand the helmet,” Rodgers told reporters.

He then spoke about the Schutt helmet in which he’s worn since entering the NFL way back in 2005.

“I’ve worn a Schutt for 20 years and somehow it finally didn’t pass the safety standard,” Rodgers added.

Last year, while with the New York Jets, Rodgers sported the Schutt Air XP Pro Q11 LTD helmet.

But the NFL had contemplated a decision whether to ban the specific helmet and listed it as “not recommended” for player use.

The helmet is now banned.

Rodgers was forced to wear the helmet in 2019 after his previous Schutt helmet was banned.

He will have to once again find a new helmet.

It appeared Rodgers chose to rock a Schutt F7 Pro model helmet on Tuesday, which has passed the NFL’s annual study.

After the annual helmet performance and safety study, the NFL and the NFL Players Association banned seven other models this offseason.

Headshot of a man wearing a Pittsburgh Steelers hat.
Pittsburgh Steelers - Instagram
Rodgers spoke to reporters during Tuesday’s mandatory minicamp[/caption]

The banned helmets are:

  • Riddell Foundation
  • Riddell Speed Icon
  • Riddell Speed
  • Riddell Revolution Speed Classic
  • Schutt Air XP Pro Q11 LTD
  • Xenith Epic+
  • Xenith Epic

Rodgers will have a little less than three months to figure out the right helmet to wear on Week 1.

He will hope to get his revenge when he faces his former team Jets, on September 7 at MetLife Stadium.

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 08: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers scrambles with the ball against the Detroit Lions in the first half at Lambeau Field on January 08, 2023 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Getty
Rodgers has worn a Schutt helmet throughout his career[/caption]

Read More »

New McDonald’s Snack Wrap ‘doesn’t hold a candle to the past’ as fans blast ingredient change to cult classic chicken

A NEW McDonald’s Snack Wrap has been blasted by fans over an ingredient change to the cult classic chicken.

Fans have slammed the new menu item, claiming that they are “horrible” and “stringy”.

Chicken McNuggets and french fries in McDonald's packaging.
Getty
Fans have slammed the new menu item, claiming that they are “horrible” and “stringy”[/caption]

McDonald’s has just added McCrispy Strips to its US menu, but they don’t seem to be hitting the mark with customers.

The fast food giant first trialled the item in late April, and participating restaurants launched them on May 5.

The strips are the first permanent menu addition for the first time in four years, made with “juicy, 100% white meat, coated with crispy golden-brown breading and bursting with a bold, new black pepper flavor.”

But Loop Capital, a research firm, said that customers have been less than impressed with the strips.

In the note, Loop Capital analyst Alton Stump said the investment in the strips “hoped the superior taste profile of the new chicken strips would overcome the product’s appearance.”

He continued to claim that McDonald’s has “received predominantly negative customer feedback to date.”

But fans have taken to social media to slam the snack on Reddit.

One person said: “These are horrible and taste like oversized Dino nuggets.”

And another claimed that the strips “don’t hold a candle to the chicken selects of the past.”

Others called them “so stringy”, and said that McNuggets are “definitely better”.

There were some people who complimented the strips, however.

One fan praised: “They were good and loved the sauce!”

And another added that the strips are their “favorite thing at McDonald’s now.”

FUTURE DAMAGE

Loop Capital even suggested that the negative feedback to the strips could hurt the brand going forward.

Fast Food meal deals

Here are some of the current value meals offered by popular fast food joints.

Taco Bell’s $7 Luxe Cravings Box:

  • Chalupa Supreme
  • Beefy Five-Layer Burrito
  • Double Stacked Taco
  • Chips and nacho cheese sauce
  • Medium drink

McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal:

  • McDouble or McChicken sandwich
  • Four-piece Chicken McNuggets
  • Small fries
  • Small soft drink

Wendy’s $5 Biggie Bag:

  • Junior Bacon Cheeseburger or Crispy Chicken Sandwich
  • Four-piece chicken nuggets
  • Junior fries
  • Small soft drink

Burger King’s $5 Your Way Meal:

  • Whopper Junior, Chicken Junior, or Bacon Cheeseburger
  • Fries
  • Four-piece chicken nuggets
  • Soft drink

This is despite the imminent return of the Snack Wrap, which is highly anticipated among fans.

McDonald’s is set to bring the Snack Wrap back on July 10 with spicy or ranch flavor options.

This will mark nine years since the fan favorite menu item was discontinued.

Stump went onto say that some customers feel the underwhelming reaction to the McCrispy Strips be a bad sign for the upcoming Snack Wrap.

Loop has projected that any bad reaction the the latest menu item hasn’t damaged McDonald’s sales too much.

The frim believes the chain will see a will see a 2% increase in its U.S. comparable sales during the second quarter of the year.

Over the entire year, this will jump 1.2%, according to Loop.

When the Snack Wrap makes it comeback, it will be doing so as a permanent offering to menus.

Only time will tell if the negative feedback to the McCrispy Strips does tarnish the Snack Wrap release.

McDonald's McCrispy chicken strips with creamy chili dip and fries.
McDonald's
McDonald’s has just added McCrispy Strips to its US menu, but they don’t seem to be hitting the mark with customers[/caption]
McDonald's Honey Mustard Snack Wrap.
Some customers feel the underwhelming reaction to the McCrispy Strips be a bad sign for the upcoming Snack Wrap
GETTY

Read More »