8k8 download A federal appeals court panel on Friday unanimously upheld a law that could lead to a ban on TikTok in a few short months, handing a resounding defeat to the popular social media platform as it fights for its survival in the U.S. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit denied TikTok's petition to overturn the law — which requires TikTok to break ties with its China-based parent company ByteDance or be banned by mid-January — and rebuffed the company's challenge of the statute, which it argued had ran afoul of the First Amendment. “The First Amendment exists to protect free speech in the United States,” said the court's opinion, which was written by Judge Douglas Ginsburg. “Here the Government acted solely to protect that freedom from a foreign adversary nation and to limit that adversary’s ability to gather data on people in the United States.” TikTok and ByteDance — another plaintiff in the lawsuit — are expected to appeal to the Supreme Court, though its unclear whether the court will take up the case. “The Supreme Court has an established historical record of protecting Americans’ right to free speech, and we expect they will do just that on this important constitutional issue," TikTok spokesperson Michael Hughes said in a statement. “Unfortunately, the TikTok ban was conceived and pushed through based upon inaccurate, flawed and hypothetical information, resulting in outright censorship of the American people,” Hughes said. Unless stopped, he argued the statute “will silence the voices of over 170 million Americans here in the US and around the world on January 19th, 2025.” Though the case is squarely in the court system, it's also possible the two companies might be thrown some sort of a lifeline by President-elect Donald Trump, who tried to ban TikTok during his first term but said during the presidential campaign that he is now against such action . The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, was the culmination of a yearslong saga in Washington over the short-form video-sharing app, which the government sees as a national security threat due to its connections to China. The U.S. has said it’s concerned about TikTok collecting vast swaths of user data, including sensitive information on viewing habits , that could fall into the hands of the Chinese government through coercion. Officials have also warned the proprietary algorithm that fuels what users see on the app is vulnerable to manipulation by Chinese authorities, who can use it to shape content on the platform in a way that’s difficult to detect — a concern mirrored by the European Union on Friday as it scrutinizes the video-sharing app’s role in the Romanian elections. TikTok, which sued the government over the law in May, has long denied it could be used by Beijing to spy on or manipulate Americans. Its attorneys have accurately pointed out that the U.S. hasn’t provided evidence to show that the company handed over user data to the Chinese government, or manipulated content for Beijing’s benefit in the U.S. They have also argued the law is predicated on future risks, which the Department of Justice has emphasized pointing in part to unspecified action it claims the two companies have taken in the past due to demands from the Chinese government. Friday’s ruling came after the appeals court panel, composed of two Republicans and one Democrat appointed judges, heard oral arguments in September. In the hearing, which lasted more than two hours, the panel appeared to grapple with how TikTok’s foreign ownership affects its rights under the Constitution and how far the government could go to curtail potential influence from abroad on a foreign-owned platform. On Friday, all three denied TikTok’s petition. In the court's ruling, Ginsburg, a Republican appointee, rejected TikTok's main legal arguments against the law, including that the statute was an unlawful bill of attainder, or a taking of property in violation of the Fifth Amendment. He also said the law did not violate the First Amendment because the government is not looking to "suppress content or require a certain mix of content” on TikTok. Story continues below video “Content on the platform could in principle remain unchanged after divestiture, and people in the United States would remain free to read and share as much PRC propaganda (or any other content) as they desire on TikTok or any other platform of their choosing,” Ginsburg wrote, using the abbreviation for the People’s Republic of China. Judge Sri Srinivasan, the chief judge on the court, issued a concurring opinion. TikTok’s lawsuit was consolidated with a second legal challenge brought by several content creators — for which the company is covering legal costs — as well as a third one filed on behalf of conservative creators who work with a nonprofit called BASED Politics Inc. Other organizations, including the Knight First Amendment Institute, had also filed amicus briefs supporting TikTok. “This is a deeply misguided ruling that reads important First Amendment precedents too narrowly and gives the government sweeping power to restrict Americans’ access to information, ideas, and media from abroad,” said Jameel Jaffer, the executive director of the organization. “We hope that the appeals court’s ruling won’t be the last word.” Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, lawmakers who had pushed for the legislation celebrated the court's ruling. "I am optimistic that President Trump will facilitate an American takeover of TikTok to allow its continued use in the United States and I look forward to welcoming the app in America under new ownership,” said Republican Rep. John Moolenaar of Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on China. Democratic Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, who co-authored the law, said “it's time for ByteDance to accept” the law. To assuage concerns about the company’s owners, TikTok says it has invested more than $2 billion to bolster protections around U.S. user data. The company has also argued the government’s broader concerns could have been resolved in a draft agreement it provided the Biden administration more than two years ago during talks between the two sides. It has blamed the government for walking away from further negotiations on the agreement, which the Justice Department argues is insufficient. Attorneys for the two companies have claimed it’s impossible to divest the platform commercially and technologically. They also say any sale of TikTok without the coveted algorithm — the platform’s secret sauce that Chinese authorities would likely block under any divesture plan — would turn the U.S. version of TikTok into an island disconnected from other global content. Still, some investors, including Trump’s former Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and billionaire Frank McCourt, have expressed interest in purchasing the platform. Both men said earlier this year that they were launching a consortium to purchase TikTok’s U.S. business. This week, a spokesperson for McCourt’s Project Liberty initiative, which aims to protect online privacy, said unnamed participants in their bid have made informal commitments of more than $20 billion in capital.New Orleans police arrest man accused of killing paradegoers during multiple mass shootingsColumbia, a perennial football loser, wins Ivy League title for first time since 1961

6 Money Moves You Should Make Before the End of the YearThousands of social assistance cheques have not been distributed in British Columbia because of the Canada Post strike, prompting an investigation by provincial Ombudsperson Jay Chalke. Chalke's office began investigating when he was told by the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction that many income and disability assistance cheques weren't delivered. Chalke says in a statement that he's concerned that many of B.C.'s most vulnerable people will be left without funds for food and shelter, especially during the upcoming holiday season. He says that despite the ministry's efforts to encourage direct deposit, thousands of hard-copy cheques are mailed every month, and the ministry says 40 per cent of those payments weren't sent last month. WATCH | Much-needed cheques not being sent out during mail strike: Postal strike stalls delivery of passports, government cheques 16 days ago Duration 2:01 Tens of thousands of passports are being held by Service Canada because of the postal strike. Provincial income assistance cheques are also not being delivered. There are workarounds for some of these challenges, but as Michelle Ghoussoub reports, not everyone can take advantage of them. The potential for a Canada Post strike was widely reported before it happened, and Chalke says the ministry needed to have a plan for distributing the cheques without mail service. Chalke says his investigation will assess the adequacy of that plan. The statement says the investigation will also look into the ministry's contingency planning before the strike was announced, as well as steps taken during the strike to distribute hard copy cheques to the 15 per cent of income and disability assistance recipients who don't get direct deposit. Purolator, UPS pause shipments from couriers amid backlog from Canada Post strike "The next social assistance payment date is Dec. 18. The end of December is when many ministry employees intend to be on vacation, which could present operational challenges," Chalke says. "I am calling on the government to demonstrate it has a plan in place to achieve better and faster results for December's cheques in the event the strike continues." Talks between union, employer stalled There are currently no new developments in the impasse between Canada Post employees and its workers, who began talks toward a new contract on Nov. 15, 2023. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says it is seeking fair wages as the cost of living has gone up, with high rent and inflation leaving employees "unable to survive." WATCH | Canada Post workers on why they are striking: Why are Canada Post workers on strike? 17 days ago Duration 1:35 The Canadian Union of Postal Workers is on strike. Here’s what they’re asking for, in their own words. Before and during the strike, Canada Post workers have been struggling with the cost of living, the union says. Among its key demands are wage increases, a guaranteed pension and safer working conditions, with the union citing the "second highest rate of disability injury among workers under federal jurisdiction." Canada Post, meanwhile, says it has lost $3 billion since 2018. The company says the union's demands will lead to more fixed costs that Canada Post can't afford. Charities in B.C. taking hit as Canada Post strike continuesBREAKING Ruben Amorim's Man Utd reign off to the dream start thanks to Marcus RashfordJim Cramer Says You Should Hold or Buy More IBM Common Stock (IBM) Shares

NoneNew Delhi [India], November 24 (ANI): General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Indian Army, returned to India today after a successful five-day official visit to Nepal. The visit, which exceeded all stated objectives, further solidified the robust defence cooperation, cultural ties, and mutual respect between the two nations. It underscored the shared commitment of the Indian and Nepali Armies to fostering peace, security, and partnership in the region, the Ministry of Defence said in a release on Sunday. During his visit, Dwivedi engaged extensively with Nepal's political and military leadership. He held high-level meetings with the President of Nepal, Ram Chandra Paudel, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli; and Defence Minister Manbir Rai. He also engaged in meaningful discussions with General Ashok Raj Sigdel, COAS, Nepali Army, along with other senior military officers. These interactions were characterised by exceptional openness and mutual respect, reflecting the shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, the ministry said. Also Read | India's Image Now Transformed Into World's 'Deep Tech Hub' From 'IT Outsourcing Centre' Due to Government's Reforms: Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. Dwivedi in a solemn ceremony, paid his tributes to Nepal's Bravehearts by laying a wreath at Bir Smarak, Tundikhel. Later, he reviewed an impressive Guard of Honour at the Nepali Army Headquarters, the ministry said. Strengthening India-Nepal ties was a central theme of the visit. General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, called on General Ashok Raj Sigdel, COAS, Nepali Army, and discussed aspects of mutual interest and avenues to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. The COAS was briefed by the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of the Nepali Army and engaged in high-level discussions with other senior military leaders. These discussions focused on enhancing military bonds, joint exercises, training cooperation, and capability development, reinforcing the shared commitment to global peace and security. As a gesture of friendship between the two armies, the Indian Army presented Valour Mount horses and Sentinel dogs to the Nepali Army. Also Read | Chinese Man Sues Company He Worked at for 20 Years After He Was Fired for Sleeping at Desk, Awarded INR 40 Lakh in Compensation. Dwivedi was conferred the Honorary Rank of General of the Nepali Army by the Paudel, at Sheetal Niwas, Kathmandu. This unique tradition underscores the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between the Indian and Nepali Armies. Dwivedi experienced firsthand, the cultural and social bonds between the two countries and their armies. Increased cultural exchanges between the Indian and Nepali Armies were also discussed, recognising their importance in strengthening bilateral ties. Enlightening the future leaders at the Nepal Army Command and Staff College in Shivapuri, the COAS delivered a lecture on "The Changing Character of War". He emphasised on strengthening and deepening the engagements for mutually building the competencies and capabilities of both Armies. Dwivedi attended an Ex-Servicemen Rally at the Pension Paying Office in Pokhara, interacting with Gorkha veterans and Veer Naris of the Indian Army. The bond between the veterans and the Indian Army was very visible and thriving, reflecting their strong ties. The COAS lauded the role of veterans in civil society, acknowledging their contributions across various fields. A heartfelt moment during the rally was his interaction with Subedar Major and Honorary Captain Gopal Bahadur Thapa (retd) of the 18th Battalion, The Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, the Subedar Major of his own unit, showcasing a personal and emotional connection with the veterans. He also reiterated the Government of India's unwavering commitment to their welfare, including the announcement of an increase in the number of ECHS empanelled hospitals besides addition of two ECHS polyclinics, one each at Butala and Dungadhi. These initiatives is reflective of the Government of India's and Indian Army's resolve towards the welfare of veterans. Invitation to Nepali COAS: General Dwivedi extended a formal invitation to the Nepali Army's COAS to visit India, aiming to build on and amplify the outcomes of the current visit, the ministry said. This visit, marked by comprehensive discussions and mutual respect, has reinforced the strong partnership between the Indian and Nepali Armies. The outcomes of the visit are expected to usher in a new era of collaboration, with a greater focus on defence cooperation, cultural exchange, and regional security, it added. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)

The Ravens looked better defensively last week, but now Roquan Smith's injury is a concern OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — Fresh off one of its best showings of the season, the Baltimore defense now has another problem to worry about. Roquan Smith missed practice again Friday because of a hamstring injury. Noah Trister, The Associated Press Nov 22, 2024 3:49 PM Nov 22, 2024 4:05 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith (0) tackles Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Freed) OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — Fresh off one of its best showings of the season, the Baltimore defense now has another problem to worry about. Roquan Smith missed practice again Friday because of a hamstring injury. Although the Ravens didn't officially rule him or anyone else out — they don't play until Monday night — the All-Pro linebacker's status seems dicey. “Definitely it will be a challenge if Roquan can’t go,” defensive coordinator Zach Orr said. “We’re holding out hope and everything like that. I think it’ll just be by committee. Not one person is going to replace Roquan. Roquan’s an every-down linebacker.” Although the Ravens lost 18-16 last weekend, Baltimore didn't allow a touchdown. That was an encouraging sign for a team that ranks 26th in the league in total defense. Baltimore is on the road Monday against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Ravens appear to have dodged one potential nightmare. Star safety Kyle Hamilton injured an ankle against Cincinnati on Nov. 7, but he was able to play almost every defensive snap the following week against Pittsburgh. But Smith was injured in that game and didn't practice Thursday or Friday. Linebacker Malik Harrison had a season high in tackles last weekend and figures to have a significant role if Smith can't go. “We tell these guys, ‘You’re one play away to going in there — you never know, so you got to stay ready.’ Malik — he was ready,” Orr said. “I thought he went in there and did a good job, especially after the first series, he settled down. That’s what we expect from him.” It's hard to tell whether last week can be a significant turning point for Baltimore's defense. The Ravens allowed only 10 points in a dominant win over Buffalo in Week 4, then yielded 38 against Cincinnati the following game. After allowing 10 against Denver, the Ravens were picked apart by the Bengals again a few days later. So they still haven't shown they can play a good game defensively and then build on it. “I think it’s easier said than done. It’s something that we kind of got caught up saying against Buffalo and then coming up the next week and not doing," Hamilton said. "We’re aware of it now and know that we played a good game, but I think we can get a lot better, and I think that’s kind of the mindset everybody on defense has right now.” Hamilton's ability to make a difference all over the field is part of what makes him valuable, but positioning him deep is one way the Ravens can try to guard against big passing plays. Pittsburgh's Russell Wilson threw for only 205 yards against Baltimore. That's after Joe Burrow passed for 428 and four touchdowns in the Ravens' previous game. “I’ve always seen myself as a safety. A versatile one, but at the end of the day, I think I play safety,” Hamilton said. “If I’m asked to go play safety, I feel like that’s not an issue for me to play safety if I’m a safety.” NOTES: In addition to Smith, WR Rashod Bateman (knee), DT Travis Jones (ankle), S Sanoussi Kane (ankle) C Tyler Linderbaum (back) and CB Arthur Maulet (calf) missed practice Friday. WR Nelson Agholor (illness) returned to full participation after missing Thursday's practice. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL Noah Trister, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Football (NFL) Brock Purdy will miss Sunday's game for the 49ers with a shoulder injury Nov 22, 2024 3:28 PM 49ers attempt to bounce back and boost their postseason chances as they visit Green Bay Nov 22, 2024 3:09 PM Winston's performance in snowy win over Steelers adds new layer to Browns' quarterback conundrum Nov 22, 2024 2:58 PMThe Houston Texans lost their Week 12 matchup 32-27 to the Tennessee Titans. It was a surprising loss, considering Houston is viewed as a legitimate playoff contender, while Tennessee managed to earn its third win on the season on Sunday. It was a back-and-forth game throughout, with CJ Stroud playing well for the most part. However, the Titans' defense did manage to force him to throw two interceptions on the day. The 23-year-old quarterback finished the day with 247 passing yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions while throwing a 60.6% completion percentage. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Thanks for the feedback.