Former U.S. Senate candidate and immigration attorney Peter Lumaj fled communist Albania decades ago to find freedom and opportunity in America.Now, fresh off Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani's New York City mayoral primary win, Lumaj is warning that ideas touted by the far-left progressive could lead the U.S. down the same slippery slope."I've seen that movie before, and I don't like the ending of it" the Connecticut conservative told "Fox & Friends First" on Wednesday."This guy openly wants to promote communist values in our country, and this is not compatible with the foundation of this country when he wants to have command and control over the economy, forced redistribution of property. These are things that have been tried in Eastern Europe. They were tried in the Soviet Union. They're being tried in Venezuela, Cuba, you name it, and they are a complete failure."JONATHAN TURLEY: WHY NYC'S ZOHRAN MAMDANI LOOKS MORE AND MORE LIKE A HARDCORE MARXISTLumaj tacked on a final warning: "We must not allow this to spread in the United States because this is not American at all."In 2021, Mamdani urged attendees of the Young Democratic Socialists of America winter conference not to compromise on goals like "seizing the means of production.""Right now, if we're talking about the cancellation of student debt, if we're talking about Medicare for all, these are issues which have the groundswell of popular support across this country," Mamdani said in a video to conference-goers."But then there are also other issues that we firmly believe in, whether it's [Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions] or whether it is the end goal of seizing the means of production, where we do not have the same level of support at this very moment."VIDEO SURFACES OF MAMDANI USING SLOGAN ROOTED IN COMMUNIST REVOLUTIONARY LANGUAGELumaj told "Fox & Friends First" co-host Todd Piro that hearing Mamdani talk about "seizing the means of production" brings back horrible memories of Albania."You cannot have socialism without brute force of the government," he warned."In order for you or someone to implement those policies, you're gonna have to use the government agencies to do that. You're going to have to use force to do it. When communism took over Albania, and they dispossessed people from their property, they had to use government agencies to do this. They had to arrest people, they had to torture people, they wound up killing people, including my own father, because he would not comply with the requirements or the demands of the communist regime, and this is a very dangerous thing to bring to the United States."President Donald Trump has publicly taken hits at Mamdani since his upset win over former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary, calling the AOC-endorsed progressive "a 100% Communist Lunatic" in a Truth Social post last week.Trump has since doubled down on the rhetoric.When asked by NBC's Kristen Welker if he is a communist, Mamdani succinctly replied on Sunday, "No, I am not.""I have already had to start to get used to the fact that the president will talk about how I look, how I sound, where I'm from, who I am, ultimately, because he wants to distract from what I'm fighting for. And I'm fighting for the very working people that he ran a campaign to empower that he has since then betrayed," he added.Fox News' Alec Schemmel contributed to this report.

What was "Bronx girl" AOC's childhood nickname? What's in Idaho college killer Bryan Kohberger's plea deal? Can you answer the Fox News Quiz?Test your news knowledge with this week's Fox News Digital News Quiz.Looking for more fun?A democratic socialist beat a big-name politician in the New York City mayoral primary. Do you remember the details from last week's News Quiz?Test yourself on iconic ice cream and marvelous museums in this week's American Culture Quiz.If you're looking to play even more, you can find all of our quizzes by clicking here.Check back next week for the latest News Quiz from Fox News Digital. Thanks for playing!

H2L, a Tokyo-based technology startup, has launched the Capsule Interface.This breakthrough device lets you control robots with your entire body, transmitting not just movement but also physical force.This technology is poised to transform how humans interact with robots and digital avatars, offering a new level of immersion and precision.Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, youll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join myCYBERGUY.COM/NEWSLETTERPARALYZED MAN SPEAKS AND SINGS WITH AI BRAIN-COMPUTER INTERFACEAt the core of the Capsule Interface are sophisticated muscle displacement sensors. Unlike conventional teleoperation systems that rely on motion sensors or exoskeletons, H2L's sensors detect even the smallest changes in muscle tension. This allows the device to capture both the intent and the effort behind every movement.When you lift, push or grasp, the system measures how much force you're applying, transmitting that data to a remote robot in real time. The result is a more authentic, responsive and natural interaction between human and machine.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HEREThe Capsule Interface is designed for comfort and accessibility. It can be integrated into chairs or beds, allowing you to operate robots while sitting or lying down. There's no need for bulky wearables or complicated training. Instead, you simply move your limbs, and the system instantly records and communicates those movements and the associated muscle activity. Equipped with a display and speakers, the interface also provides real-time audiovisual feedback, creating a two-way connection that feels intuitive and engaging.In business, professionals can attend meetings or perform tasks in distant locations by operating a humanoid robot from home or a nearby office. Delivery workers can remotely carry heavy loads, reducing physical strain. The Capsule Interface also has significant potential for disaster response, enabling operators to control robots in hazardous environments without risk to human life. In everyday life, it can assist with household chores, support elderly family members and help farmers manage agricultural robots remotely.Looking ahead, H2L plans to make the Capsule Interface even more realistic by adding a new feature called proprioceptive feedback. In simple terms, this means the device would not only let you control a robot, but also allow you to feel what the robot is doing, like sensing resistance when lifting something heavy or feeling the texture of an object through the robot.By giving you this kind of physical sensation, the experience becomes much more lifelike, making remote collaboration and communication feel even more natural and engaging. This upgrade could unlock new possibilities in areas like education, healthcare and entertainment, where a true sense of touch and movement can make a big difference.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?In the end, H2L's Capsule Interface is a glimpse into a future where our physical presence and abilities can be extended far beyond our own bodies. By making it possible to control robots with natural movements and even transmit the feeling of force, this technology could change how we work, help others and connect across distances.Do you think the benefits of more immersive and precise remote interaction outweigh the potential risks, or do you worry about unintended consequences? Let us know by writing to us atCyberguy.com/ContactSign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, youll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join myCYBERGUY.COM/NEWSLETTERCopyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Far-left political commentator Elie Mystal told "The Joy Reid Show" on Wednesday that the U.S. should be treated like a rogue state by the international community."Our country needs to be sanctioned. We are the bad guys on the world stage. We are a menace to not only free people everywhere, but we are a menace to peaceful people everywhere at this point, and I'm not even going to say that we've only been a menace for the past three or four months," Mystal told Joy Reid.Mystal cited President Donald Trump's airstrikes against Iran's nuclear program facilities in June, claiming the U.S. "should be sanctioned and rebuked" for such "illegal unnecessary bombings in Iran."EX-MSNBC HOST JOY REID CLASHES WITH CNN PANEL AS SHE DEFENDS IRAN"When does the international community decide that enough is enough? I know we're rich. I know we've got a lot of money. I know that people want to buy things from our country because we're rich or want to sell things to our country because we're rich, but at some point the international community has to stand up to us, because we are a bad guy on the world stage, right, and so we should be sanctioned," he added.Trump's strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities struck a blow to the rogue state's nuclear program.Shortly after the strikes, Trump declared Israel and Iran had agreed to a ceasefire after missile exchanges, claiming the "12-day war" would end.Trump is also working on a ceasefire deal to end the war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.EX-SECRETARY OF STATE CONDOLEEZZA RICE CALLS US STRIKES ON IRAN A 'SHOT IN THE ARM' FOR AMERICAN CREDIBILITYDespite recent events in the Middle East, Mystal maintains that the United States needs to be treated like a "rogue state.""We have to be stopped through the same kind of means that we have that our country and others have used to rebuke North Korea or China or name a rogue state," he said. "We are the rogue state and other countries need to start treating us like that."Mystal did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

After Lindsay Gutierrez sustained a traumatic brain injury on duty, she was determined to help other veterans in need.The U.S. Air Force veteran served six years and became a double organ donor, making her one of 280 people in the U.S. whove donated two organs to save lives. Shes now appearing in Pin-Ups For Vets 20th annual fundraiser calendar for 2026, which features 13 female veterans from across the country photographed in vintage styles."[The calendar] provides a chance for women veterans to showcase not just their outside beauty, but their inner beauty and the amazing accomplishments that they have done," Gutierrez told Fox News Digital.IRAQ WAR VETERAN POSES AS '40S PINUP MODEL AFTER SURVIVING MORTAR ATTACK"It was a huge interest to me because of where Im at in my journey now with being an organ donor, a veteran, a social worker I felt this was the most opportune time. And I am so thrilled that I was selected to be part of his amazing cohort."The award-winning nonprofit, founded in 2006by California resident Gina Elise, raises money to support hospitalized and deployed troops. It produces World War II-inspired bombshell calendars featuring veterans as models. Elise previously told Fox News Digital she was inspired by Hollywood actress Betty Grable, whose swimsuit snap was distributed to GIs during World War II.Pin-Ups For Vets has donated over $120,000 to purchase new rehabilitation equipment for veteran hospitals nationwide. Volunteer ambassadors for the organization have also personally visited over 20,000 ill and injured veterans during their 50-state VA hospital tour to deliver gifts of appreciation.Proceeds from the calendar will support visits to ill and injured veterans, care packages for deployed troops and ongoing donations of rehabilitation equipment to VA hospitals, as well as providing goods to homeless veterans and those transitioning into housing.Gutierrez, 42, said the platform means more than transforming into a Hollywood bombshell for a day her goal is to shine a spotlight on the importance of organ donation."This means an opportunity to expand my service and be able to give back to the veteran community," she explained. "As a veteran myself, thats important. My service never stopped just because I was discharged. Its an extension of what Im doing, and it allows me to continue connecting with other veterans."WATCH: USAF VETERAN WHO DONATED TWO ORGANS POSES AS 40S PINUP MODEL"Were helping veterans in these hospital settings and different communities that allows me to share my story and my journey to hopefully connect with somebody who is also on that transplant list and is in need of some care and hope.""There are people out there who are willing to save a life," Gutierrez added.The Maryland resident originally moved to California in 2009 with big dreams of becoming a special effects makeup artist. Gutierrez admitted to hitting "roadblock after roadblock" and struggling to make ends meet."I thought, Well, why not try the military?" she reasoned.The idea wasnt foreign to Gutierrez. Both her grandfathers served."By the time I was old enough to understand what the military was like or to even consider it, my maternal grandfather had already passed," said Gutierrez. "My Papa Ralph was the one who really planted that seed in my mind [when] I was young about the military. But I never once thought that it would be something I could do or would even consider."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER"My grandfathers voice was still ringing in my ear and telling me, Just give it a shot," she recalled. "And so, I did. I took that leap of faith."Gutierrez enlisted in the United States Air Force in 2010. Her grandfather had also served in the Air Force."Im a faith-based person, and I believe that God led me down this path of being able to take a chance on enlisting," said Gutierrez."I honestly believe that was the reason I was hitting one closing door after another. What I was doing out in California was not what I was supposed to be doing. So God opened up that door for me to be able to join. It was almost like a flawless opportunity and it happened so fast. I was almost at the cutoff age at that point for joining."For six years, Gutierrez served as a security forces member, stationed at RAF Lakenheath in the U.K. She was deployed twice once to Qatar and then to Djibouti.In 2014, everything changed for Gutierrez while she was in Djibouti. She described it as like "any other normal deployment." During the night shift, Gutierrez was in a vehicle when she got an eerie feeling.LIKE WHAT YOURE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS"I just had this feeling that somethings not right, and I dont know what it was," she said. "Ive never really had that before, ever. It was just a feeling that somethings going to happen. And then a second later, the vehicle fishtails. We are spinning and rolling down this little ravine. It was kind of over a bridge but was still three or four rolls from what I remember. We landed right side up. That experience is what initially caused the traumatic brain injury that I was eventually diagnosed with."It wouldnt be until around 2018 that Gutierrez was diagnosed by a VA neurologist."I constantly felt like there was a change in my brain," said Gutierrez. "Something is going on. I felt like there was something different about me, but I was never able to put a finger on it. I just thought there was something wrong with me. And then finally, I got that diagnosis and that really helped open up the door for healing.""You realize that, a lot of times, there are just things that you know are different, but you cant put your finger on it," she continued. "Thats what was going on. Emotionally, I felt like some of my personality was a little bit different. My husband was picking up on this but he had no idea what was going on. Physically, I felt fine, minus getting all of these headaches, but you would never have been able to see just from looking at me on the outside that there was anything that was going on."After nearly three years of "unemployment, confusion and invisible health struggles," Gutierrez wanted to make a difference. She went on to be crowned Ms. Veteran America in 2017, obtained an internship at her congressmans office in Georgia and pursued studies in social work.While working, her office received a copy of the Military Times. As Gutierrez flipped the pages, she came across an ad for DOVE or living kidney donation for veterans."Not once in the three years that I have been there, have we ever received the Military Times," she chuckled. "I decided, Why not? Im in pretty good health, Im an O+ blood type Lets see if this is for me."On May 25, 2022 the weekend of Memorial Day - Gutierrez donated her kidney to a veteran. On April 30, 2024, she donated 40% of her liver to an anonymous recipient."The whole reason I wanted to donate to another veteran in need was because [its] the most selfless thing you could do," she said. "We all serve our country. Those of us who wore the uniform, we served knowing that this was a selfless act Its an extension of my military service and wearing the uniform.""And it was so special to be able to help save the life of a fellow veteran because that allows him and his family to continue their generation of whatever that looks like for them," she continued. "It could be service members, it could be whatever their profession is. But the point is that theyre able to continue with their family and live the healthiest life possible now that theyve been given a second chance."Life today is "normal" for Gutierrez. She has gone on to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest freestanding mountain above sea level in the world, in 2023."Its even more important for me to take care of myself internally and externally, and do the things that are going to allow me to continue living as long as I can," she said. "I owe that to myself, and I owe that to the people that I donated to."USAF VETERAN POSES AS 40S PINUP MODEL TO COMBAT PERSONAL DEMONS: FAR BIGGER THAN MEShe now hopes that as people hang up her photos, theyll feel empowered to also make a difference."You dont have to save a life by donating an organ," she said. "You can do that simply by an act of selflessness, by going out and helping others in whatever that looks like to you. If its donating your time, if its a financial donation, there is a way that somebody can give back in one way or another. I just want people to feel inspired to know that you can do that. You dont have to do an extreme act like I did But, theres always a place for you in your community to be able to support others."

Jake Paul took a second win over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. this week.Paul earned an official WBA cruiserweight ranking after defeating the boxing legend's son over the weekend in a unanimous decision - on Wednesday. Just four days after the bout, Chavez Jr. was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).Paul, as usual, talked plenty of trash ahead of the fight, and after the news of the arrest circulated, Paul dropped the mic one final time on Chavez Jr.CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COMAfter the news went around, Paul took to X to post an American flag emoji.Paul's business partner, Valuable Promotions co-founder Nakisa Bidarian, said in an interview with Fox News Digital shortly after Chavez Jr.'s arrest that the team knew "zero" about Chavez Jr.'s situation prior to his arrest.The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the arrest on Thursday, noting Chavez Jr. was being processed for "expedited removal from the United States."Chavez Jr. was arrested in Los Angeles in January 2024 and later convicted of possession of an assault weapon, and manufacturing or importing a short-barreled rifle, according to the statement. He had a prior U.S. criminal conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol in 2012.He also has an active arrest warrant in Mexico for his alleged involvement with the Sinaloa Cartel trafficking firearms, ammunition and explosives, according to DHS officials.JAKE PAUL NOW ELIGIBLE FOR CHAMPIONSHIP FIGHT AS HE OFFICIALLY ENTERS WBA CRUISERWEIGHT RANKINGSWhile Chavez Jr. entered the U.S. legally in August 2023 on a B2 tourist visa, it expired in February 2024.In April 2024, he filed an application for Lawful Permanent Resident status.However, his application was based on his marriage to a U.S. citizen who is connected to the Sinaloa cartel through a prior relationship with the now-deceased son of the infamous cartel leader Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, according to the statement.In December 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services made a referral to ICE that Chavez Jr. was considered "an egregious public safety threat."DHS said Chavez Jr. reentered the country in January through the San Ysidro port of entry. However, after "multiple fraudulent statements on his application to become a Lawful Permanent Resident," he was deemed to be in the country illegally and removable on June 27.Chavez is a former WBC middleweight champion and the son of the boxing legend Julio Cesar Chavez, who held five different world titles in four different weight classes.Paul's win on Saturday resulted in him being ranked for the first time, coming in at No. 14 in the WBA cruiserweight rankings, now making him eligible for a title bout.Scott Thompson and Alexandra Koch contributed to this report.Follow Fox News Digitalssports coverage on X,and subscribe tothe Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Jane Seymour has stayed in shape for decades without fad diets or marathon workout routines."I am now the size I was when I was 17 and a ballet dancer," the 74-year-old actress told Fox News Digital."I try to stay around the same weight, but without going crazy about it. I have gotten bigger [over the years], but I never gained more than 10 pounds. I was smaller when I was in [1988s] War and Remembrance and when I was playing Wallis Simpson where I had to be crazy thin, which is not a healthy weight for me. It makes my immune system weak."JANE SEYMOUR TELLS WOMEN TO ACT THEIR AGE AND NOT TO 'PRETEND TO BE 20 WHEN YOU'RE 70'Even during moments of celebration, Seymour is mindful of her healthy habits. Earlier in June, it was announced that her detective show, "Harry Wild," has been renewed for season 5 on Acorn TV. Shes also the host of "Relative Secrets," a series that premiered earlier this month about uncovering family secrets and dark mysteries."I almost always never have breakfast," the "Dr. Quinn" alum explained about her diet."I will have liquids and my vitamins. Ive got this vitamin combination that has collagen. Ill have that in the morning and either black tea, coffee or water. And then at lunchtime, Ill have a fabulous meal, whatever I want pretty much. I tend to like salmon, shrimp and grilled vegetables. And I love Italian food. I might have a little eggplant Parmesan; its a favorite of mine. Maybe some lean chicken."The star said that the one thing she "almost never" eats is steak, but she does make exceptions."Once in a while, Ill have a little bit of filet steak, maybe a couple of slices. Im not against it. But I feel better usually when eating fish and lots of vegetables. I grow a lot of my food in my garden, a lot of it in pots actually it keeps the bugs out. I have lettuce, arugula, artichokes, avocados, blueberries and strawberries. Also, lots of different types of kale. I love eating fresh vegetables. When I grill my vegetables, I add a little bit of olive oil and sometimes a sprinkle of salt."Like anyone else, Seymour has her guilty pleasures. She loves anything thats "crunchy and salty." To satisfy her cravings, shell eat "a crispy sweet potato."WATCH: MALIBU FIRES DROVE JANE SEYMOUR OUT OF HER HOME WITH BARELY MORE THAN THE CLOTHES ON HER BACK"I feel like Im eating a bag of chips, but its actually sweet potato," said Seymour. "I also like to take raw pumpkin seeds, put a little bit of Tamari Lite [gluten-free soy sauce that has less sodium], put them in a non-stick pan and toast them. I like to toss them around in the pan until they swell and pop. Pistachio nuts are also a favorite go-to snack. So mostly, I make sure to eat my nutrients and vitamins in my food if I can."The former Bond girl also noted that its important for her to stay active daily. However, she listens to her body about what it needs each day."I work with a lady its almost like physiotherapy, but its a workout. I do Gyrotonics and some Pilates a lot of floor work, believe it or not, even though Im on a bench. But everything I do, anyone else can do at home, in a hotel room, their living room, their garden anywhere where you can put a yoga mat down. I do Pilates legwork, which is like doing some of my ballet. I can use my own weight or a ballet bar.""Im also a believer in light weights," she shared. "Ill have an eight-pound or a five-pound weight in each hand. Ill do arm work while Im doing my legs. And the beauty of Pilates, Gyrotonics or even ballet is that its all about being able to do it properly. Its not something where you rush in and jump around and can easily get injured.""Im very careful about doing the right technique," she said. "If I cant do too much, if I cant stretch too much that day, thats fine. I just do as much as my body is comfortable doing because I dont want to injure myself. I had back surgery a long time ago. Thats a nemesis for me. So I listen to my body."Seymour said she likes workouts that can be done anywhere, rather than heading to the gym. Pilates, in particular, has been essential to her for maintaining a strong core.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER"If you have core strength, you are less likely to have back injuries or back problems," she said. "You are also more likely to look better up close. Youll be able to stand more properly The core is everything. And looking back at my ballet training, that was all about the core."In between filming "Harry Wild," its not shocking to spot Seymour doing plies or stretching."Small movements make a huge difference," she said. "Also, the muscle at the front of the leg is incredibly important to stretch out very carefully, especially if you run, walk a lot, or youre climbing. That muscle tightens up, and it directly affects your lower back."In 1995, Seymour was tempted to get a tummy tuck after welcoming twin boys. However, the idea of going under the knife made her pause."I just thought, No, thats major surgery," she recalled. "I thought, lets try doing what I used to do, my workout routines. Ill see if I can get my muscles toned. Im not trying to look like a 20-year-old. Im just trying to be the most mobile that I can be for my age and what my bodys capable of."According to Seymour, its never too late to try a workout routine that suits your lifestyle.LIKE WHAT YOURE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS"Ive never been able to do the split, so Im not going to start now," she chuckled. "I almost did it on Dancing With the Stars, and that was pretty amazing. But for me, its all about building and maintaining a good, strong core. A lot of younger people are on computers and cell phones. And I think everyone sits and hunches. Thats a big issue because it can affect your neck, shoulders, mid-back and spine. So stretching each day and having a straight spine is huge."The actress said shes grateful to get up and move each day."I think a lot of women suffer from being invisible," she said. "You were married, you had the job, and you had kids. But now, who am I? Whats my purpose? Where do I belong in this world? But you can be a full-blooded human being at any age Its a choice you make for yourself."

This is a story about America. Our country.I went to the opening day of a soccer game in my hometown of San Diego.It was the first game in the history of our clubthe San Diego Football Cluband there was a lot of hype.MILITARY PARADE DRAWS PATRIOTIC AMERICANS FROM NEAR AND FAR: 'NO BETTER TIME TO COME TO DC'It was a completely sold-out game.It was being reported by the local news and all over social media.It was a big deal. The people of San Diego were excited for our new professional soccer team.They had a lot of ceremonial-type activities before the game. Local politicians were there, there was a ribbon cutting, various dedications, and all the pomp and circumstance of a momentous occasion.When the players took the field, the crowd was fully engaged.Finallyjust prior to the gameit was time for our great American tradition before a sporting event: the singing of our national anthem.Now, this is a song that often brings tears to my eyes as I remember the hundreds of thousands of men and women throughout our history who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation. And some of those countless heroes were my friends, my brothers that I lostmen who died defending our flag and our ideals.So, as I thought about those heroes, I wondered who was going to have the solemn and sacred duty of performing The Star Spangled Banner.I thought maybe they selected a local celebrity for the task, as there are plenty of talented musicians in San Diego who could do this powerful song justice.Or perhaps they would have some distinguished school band or a proud church choir belt out the moving song that explains our tumultuous start as republic, captures the spirit of our flag and our people, and recognizes the sacrifice of our military servicemembers.Then I had the hopeful idea that it might be the Navy or Marine Corps band.The Navy and The Marine Corps are deeply rooted in San Diego and millions of Sailors and Marines have deployed from San Diegos shores to face our nation's enemies.I knew it would be fitting to see our flag honored by active-duty troops in uniform.Finally, the announcer invited the crowd to stand for the singing of the national anthem and I rose to my feet with 35,000 other people. Then, to my surprise, the announcer explained that the national anthem would be performed by usthe crowd. It would be a sing-a-long.A sing-a-long?I was shocked and disappointed and somewhat beside myself. What were they thinking?Here we were, opening day, a historic momentand we were going to do a sing-a-long?Now, Im no Pavarotti or Elvis Presley or Robert Plant, but I know how to sing. I sang in bands since I was a kid and I know that singing is not easyin factsinging is very difficult. It is challenging to stay in tune and tough to get the right timing and to hit the right notes.And to think that 35,000 people were going to be able to pull this off? I knew that people would sing too loud or too quiet. They would sing too high or too low. Some people wouldnt even sing at alland many that would sing are completely tone-deaf.So I didnt think there was a chance this crowd would be able to hit the right rhythm and the right pitch and achieve the proper level of clarity.And I was rightat least for a moment.As the giant jumbotron began to scroll the lyrics and people began to sing, it was just what I expected: some voices were too high, some too low, some too quiet, some too loud. Some were off pitch and some completely off tempo.But quickly, after a few bars, the voices started to blend together.The low voices were balanced by the high ones. The quiet voices were bolstered by the loud ones. Out-of-tune notes were leveled out by people singing perfectly on pitch.And, as I sang myself, I also heard it.I heard this mass of people, people from every background, people of every size, shape, color, and creed, people with a wide variety of contrasting and conflicting voices.As I heard them singthe sum of their voicesharmonized and it sounded better than I had ever imagined it could.That group of 35,000 individuals singing together was as good as I had ever heard that song.Now: it was not perfectbut those imperfections gave it soul. They made the song human.Every individual, doing their share, gave our national anthem a unique but unified identity.An identity thatthough not perfectwas absolutely amazing.Just like this great country.We have the voices of many peoplesome quiet, some loud.Some rich, some poor.Some left, some right, some center.Some angry, some happy.Some working hard and some hardly working.Some concernedsome care-free.We are all different.Some people like country, some heavy metal, and some soulSome like hip hop, some hardcore punk, and some rock and roll.We are all individualsAll free to sing our tune the way we want.But togethereven with all those differenceswe are more alike than not.CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINIONWe are determined. We are tough. We are individualistic and optimistic. We will not be controlled and we will fight and die if necessary for our destinyfor our freedom.You see: We are all American. This is our country.And we are not perfectand neither is America.We hit some bad notes. Our pitch is sometimes too high, and sometimes too low. Our timing is not always perfect and our rhythm is sometimes off.Buttogetherbonded only by the freedom our forefathers fought for, we sing an amazing song.And America is absolutely amazing too.God bless all you Americans.Sing loud and sing proud:This is the land of the free and the home of the brave.Have a Happy Fourth of July.And God bless America.

LGBTQ celebrities gave mixed reactions to the American flag in a trailer for the upcoming documentary "Reclaim the Flag" on Tuesday.The trailer opened with a voice-over asking interview subjects what the American flag symbolizes to them."Depending on how the United States feels about you will depend on how you feel about the flag," actress and writer Lena Waithe answered.Others were more cynical, saying the flag represented "trauma" and that they were "not welcome here."COLLEGE PROFESSOR CALLS AMERICAN FLAG A SOURCE OF ANXIETY, FEAR: 'PATRIOTISM QUICKLY SLIPS INTO NATIONALISM'"If Im on Grindr and I see an American flag emoji in somebodys bio, I think that is a Republican," content creator Matt Bernstein joked.The plot description on YouTube said that the American flag had begun to symbolize fear for citizens whose rights were in an "uncertain flux."The 30-minute short will aim to answer whether the flag could be reclaimed and how LGBTQ people can do it.Despite some concerns that their community is under attack by people who wield the American flag, other documentary subjects were more optimistic about what the flag could mean to the LGBTQ community."The American flag is not their flag. We should be proud of the American flag. We're Americans," Interview magazine editor-in-chief Mel Ottenberg said.The documentary will feature approximately 50 LGBTQ community members, ranging from content creators and writers to political figures such as former White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.It is set to premiere on the documentarys YouTube channel on July 17.INDIANA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT SPEAKS OUT AFTER GOING VIRAL FOR REFUSING TO REMOVE US FLAG FROM HIS TRUCKIn a comment to Variety, designer Alexis Bittar, who helped produce the short, described the significance of the documentary in helping shape a path for LGBTQ people to reclaim the flag again.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP"Over the past decade, the American flag has increasingly become a symbol of division. I wanted to make a documentary about reclaiming it for all Americans by bringing together 50 leaders from the LGBTQ+ community to share their reflections and hopes," Bittar said. "Speaking with a historically marginalized group offered a powerful lens for shaping a blueprint toward actionable steps to reclaim the flag."

The first time I remember celebrating the Fourth of July was during the American bicentennial in 1976. As children living in New York City, my parents woke my sisters and I up early to see the Parade of Tall Ships as it entered the Hudson River. Even as a kid, this magnificent display conveyed to me a sense of the grand power of the U.S. The extraordinary event also offered me another feeling: that America, my home country, would do anything and everything in its power to keep me, my family, and indeed, all of its citizens, safe.This Fourth of July, Americans will find themselves in two very different realities. Most will be surrounded by family and friends, enjoying baseball, hot dogs and ice cream cones. But for my American family, as well as dozens of other families of hostages, this day will be a stark contrast. On this day that celebrates freedom, my son Itay will spend the Fourth of July like he has the last 637 days likely alone, in the cold, dark tunnels of Hamas in Gaza. He and 49 other hostages remain stripped of their freedom, while their families are in limbo, not able to embrace the holiday of independence. We need to remember, especially on this day, that Hamas is still holding Americans hostage, and 50 hostages in total.ISRAELI HOSTAGE FAMILIES MAKE DESPERATE PLEA TO TRUMP AS 'TIME IS RUNNING OUT'On this day, we must look past the haze of fireworks and remember that the Fourth of July is about something more. Its about celebrating our hard-fought, long-defended freedom and knowing that an attack on the freedom of any American and taking them hostage is an attack on the freedom of us all. Taking U.S. citizens as hostages should be a liability, not an asset, with severe consequences attached. So long as Hamas holds U.S. citizens, we are letting evil and terrorism win.My son was 19 when he was taken hostage. On this Independence Day, he can no longer watch the Mets games with his brothers, something he loved and cherished. He can no longer try to strike me out in the neighborhood pickup game, or check in every five minutes at the grill asking when the food will be ready. On this Independence Day, his lack of freedom rings loudly.This Fourth of July, my family and I will wake up again to the same nightmare we do every day, where every moment begs the same agonizing question: Where is my son, and what can we do to get him back?Right now, all of our energy is focused on one thing. As every parent knows, when your child disappears from your sight even for a few moments at a playground or store panic sets in instantly. But when your child is kidnapped, especially by terrorists, the only thing you can think about is getting them back, whatever their condition. Until we can embrace Itay again, we cannot even begin to process what lies ahead or plan for the future. It's impossible to move forward when this remains an open wound.SIGN UP FOR ANTISEMITISM EXPOSED NEWSLETTERAfter the historic wins over Iran, Hezbollah, and yes, Hamas, now is the time for us to pause and adopt President Donald Trumps policy of "Peace Through Strength." It is time for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to collaborate with the U.S. and bring the hostages back. The U.S. was successful last month in bringing New Jersey native Edan Alexander back home, independent of Israel, but it needs Israel to bring the remaining others out.No fan of half-measures, President Trump is in a prime position to pull off the "Big Beautiful Deal," a comprehensive diplomatic initiative which would end hostilities in both Iran and Gaza, secure the release of all 50 remaining hostages in Gaza including my son and help stabilize the entire Middle East through a carefully negotiated framework.President Trump is uniquely positioned to drive such an initiative forward. During his previous presidency, he successfully brokered the Abraham Accords, achieving what many had previously considered near impossible normalization between Israel and several Arab nations. The Big Beautiful Deal would be a direct extension of this diplomatic milestone, offering a more comprehensive and regional approach to peacemaking. The presidents unorthodox style has demonstrated that breakthroughs are possible even in the most entrenched conflicts.CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINIONAmerica defined the values of freedom and human dignity that we celebrate on the Fourth of July. They didnt come easily we had to fight for them, good versus evil and our continued defense of democracy is an essential part of the American identity.In the last few months, my family has met Vice President JD Vance, FBI Director Kash Patel, Attorney General Pam Bondi and others who promise us that President Trumps policy of "America First" is not hollow words and "America First" prioritizes the release of American hostages and those unlawfully detained all around the world, including Gaza.To date, the Trump administration has been able to release 47 such Americans, and we pray Itay will be one of them as well soon.This Fourth of July, keep in mind that there was an attack on our freedom on Oct. 7, and fellow Americans remain in captivity. I call on President Trump: Do everything in your power to quash terrorism, and ensure that freedom wins the day with the release of the hostages.CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION