Trump Warns China Head of Visit; Alleged CCP Agent on Trial in NY | NTD Evening News (May 6)

Added: 2026-05-07

[00:00:01]Welcome to NTD Evening News. Our top story tonight, President Trump optimistic about a nuclear deal with Iran as he pauses Project Freedom on its second day. And the administration's message to China a week ahead of the president's highstakes Beijing trip.

[00:00:15]Mario at the White House.

[00:00:18]Tennessee and South Carolina advance redistricting efforts. The push follows key primary results in Indiana. Chris Bob reports.

[00:00:28]Multiple passengers suspected of contracting the Hanta virus are now being evacuated from a luxury cruise ship. There are allegations that crew members were misguided on what steps to take after the first casualty on board.

[00:00:43]A man allegedly opening a secret Chinese police station in New York City is on trial this week. What prosecutors say he did to help Beijing carry out its agenda here on US soil and why the case matters. Flora at the courtroom.

[00:01:00]The FBI raided the office and business of Virginia State Senator L. Louise Lucas in Portsmith this morning.

[00:01:16]This is NTV Evening News live from our global headquarters in New York City.

[00:01:25]Good evening and thank you for joining us tonight. I'm Carrie Dunst. A whirlwind few days in the Middle East.

[00:01:31]President Trump announcing Project Freedom, an operation that's designed to reopen the Straight of Hormuz, then putting that mission on pause late last night, citing renewed progress in diplomacy. And White House correspondent Mari Otsu brings us the latest developments from the North Lawn.

[00:01:47]>> Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon because as tough as they are, we want to keep them alive. We want to keep all of you alive. Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon and they won't and they've agreed to that among other things.

[00:02:01]>> President Trump projecting optimism saying it's quote very possible the US will make a deal with Iran. Axios reporting that the proposal includes Iran committing to a moratorium on uranium enrichment, no nuclear weapons or weaponization, no underground nuclear facilities, enhanced UN inspections, and removal of highlyenriched uranium with both sides easing restrictions on the street of Hormuz. We're dealing with people that want to make a deal very much and we'll see whether or not they can make a deal that's satisfactory to us. We have it very much under control.

[00:02:29]The blockade is unbelievable. It's like a wall of steel. Nobody goes through, in particular the Iranians. And if they don't agree, they'll end up agreeing shortly thereafter.

[00:02:39]>> Meanwhile, President Trump is maintaining the US naval blockade on Iranian ports in the straight of Hormuz, saying if Iran agrees to the deal, then the Hormuz Strait will open to all, including Iran. But if they don't reach the deal, he's warning that the bombing will start at a much higher level and intensity than before. This comes as the White House says Iranian leadership is divided in the wake of Operation Epic Fury, making consensus hard to forge across different factions.

[00:03:01]>> Their first level leaders are dead.

[00:03:03]Their second level leaders are dead.

[00:03:05]Some of their third level leaders are dead.

[00:03:08]>> I don't know of any country in the world where there's a bigger difference between the people and the people who run the country. Okay? This country is run by radical Shia clerics. Meanwhile, as Iran's foreign minister is visiting Beijing, President Trump is telling PBS that it's quite possible that a nuclear deal with Iran could be reached before the president's visit to Beijing next week. That's as the US says pressure on the Chinese regime is expected to increase ahead of the president's visit.

[00:03:31]Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the White House briefing podium saying that the United States is considering options if Beijing chooses to ignore US sanctions on Iranian oil. Look, any foreign financial institution or commercial actor that enables Iran's sanctions evasion is going to face secondary sanctions exposure and a loss of access to the US financial system. As President Trump has said, and the facts clearly bear out, the United States of America holds all the cards. We don't do these things, you know, for symbolic purposes.

[00:03:59]>> The White House also declaring that China should increase pressure on Iran to keep the Hormu straight open. The Secretary of State expressing hope that Beijing would urge Iran to stop attacking ships, placing mines in the strait, and disrupting the global economy.

[00:04:11]>> I hope the Chinese tell him what he needs to be told, and that is that what you are doing in the straits is causing you to be globally isolated. You're the bad guy in this. You what you you guys should not be blowing up ships. You should not be putting mines. You should not be holding hostage the global trying to hold hostage the global economy. I hope the Chinese bring whether it's done privately, but I hope it's done directly. Secretary Rubio is expected to accompany President Trump to Beijing next week. And ahead of that visit, the Secretary is affirming that addressing human rights violations, specifically religious persecution, remains a top priority for the Trump administration.

[00:04:42]Reporting from the White House, Mario, NTD News.

[00:04:47]>> And Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying Israel is in full coordination with the US over Iran.

[00:04:55]We share common objectives and the most important objective is the removal of enriched material from Iran. All of the enriched material and the dismantling of Iran's enrichment capabilities.

[00:05:07]President Trump believes he can achieve this one way or another.

[00:05:13]>> Netanyahu says he speaks with President Trump almost daily and their teams are in contact on a daily basis, including today. And Netanyahu says he will speak with Trump again later tonight. The Israeli prime minister adds that Israel is prepared for any scenario and the nation's strategic position remains strong despite the regional tensions.

[00:05:41]>> Next, France is moving its aircraft carrier strike group to the Red Sea.

[00:05:45]They say this could be a potential mission to secure the straight of Hormuz. The French military says its only aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, is crossing the Suez Canal in route to the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aiden. The French president's office says the move is quote a signal that not only are we ready to secure the straight of Hormuz, but that we are also capable of doing so. France and Britain have been coordinating a proposal that aims to ensure safe transit through the straight once the situation stabilizes.

[00:06:16]The French military says the deployment of the aircraft carrier seeks to speed up that initiative. France adding that the blockade of the strait is causing severe damage to the global economy with serious risks for France.

[00:06:30]Next, the war between Russia and Ukraine has relied heavily on military drones.

[00:06:35]And now Ukraine is trying to rely less on China for those drone components. And Jason Perry has the details.

[00:06:42]The war between Russia and Ukraine has relied on millions of military drones for surveilling the battlefield and striking enemy targets. And in 2026, Ukraine announced plans to produce 7 million military drones. According to a report by the Guardian, which cited Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, Ukraine now has more than 100 manufacturers of drone components in the country, and Ukraine is now seeking to rely less on China for drone parts, accusing the Chinese Communist Party of aiding Russia with military equipment in apparent conflict of interest for Ukraine. Also cited in the Guardian report, Snake Island Institute, an independent Ukrainian think tank, says Taiwan, with its reputation for excellence in technology, makes it a favorite alternative source for Ukrainian drone manufacturers. According to the Research Institute for Democracy, Society, and Emerging Technology, or DET, Taiwanese drone exports to Europe surged more than 40fold in 2025. And in the first quarter of 2026, drone exports have already surpassed last year's total. According to the Guardian report, interviews conducted by DET indicate that most of the drones exported from Taiwan to Europe were intended for Ukraine.

[00:08:03]Meanwhile, Taiwan President Ling Ta promoting a $40 billion supplementary defense budget that includes funding for drones and the integration of artificial intelligence. However, according to the Customs Administration, Taiwan's current output is in the hundreds of thousands of drones per year, while demand for drones in Ukraine measures in the millions per year. And while Ukraine does not formally recognize Taiwan, the Guardian report also mentions that some Taiwanese companies have established local facilities in Lithuania and Poland to better serve Ukraine. Jason Perry, NTD News.

[00:08:44]And a push to redraw congressional maps is gaining speed across several states.

[00:08:48]This comes after primary losses in Indiana for Republicans who opposed redistricting efforts. Now those lawmakers in states like Tennessee and South Carolina are moving quickly. And today's Chris Bob has more from Washington.

[00:09:01]>> Why are we doing this after regular session has already concluded?

[00:09:07]Here Stevens, >> there is an election this fall of who's going to control the House of Representatives.

[00:09:17]>> That's why >> a push for new congressional maps gaining speed across multiple states Wednesday. The movement comes just one day after primary results in Indiana.

[00:09:25]Several Republican state senators who opposed a prior redistricting effort were defeated. So far, only one incumbent not endorsed by the president was reelected. In one race still too close to call, state senator Spencer Deiri remains locked at 50% with his Trump endorsed opponent Paula Copenha at 50 as well. Now action in other states.

[00:09:44]In Tennessee, Republican leaders unveiling a proposal that would reshape the state's only Democrat- held district currently represented by Congressman Steve Cohen. The consideration for drawing these maps was to maximize the Republican potential to maintain the majority in the United States House of Representatives.

[00:10:04]The plan would split Memphis into three districts, potentially expanding on the state's current 8:1 Republican advantage. Cohen responding to the proposal, calling it a quote power grab and warning it would stretch representation across hundreds of miles.

[00:10:19]Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Saxon pointing to last week's Supreme Court ruling, writing that redistricting should be quote colorblind and can be based on partisan lines. Tennessee primaries are set for August 6th.

[00:10:30]>> If our maps through the recent decision are not constitutional or violate that that ruling in principle, then we should address that and and that's what this would allow us to do.

[00:10:42]>> South Carolina's lawmakers advancing a measure that could open the door to redrawing congressional districts. So by vote of 12 to two uh the uh bill is given a favorable report as amended.

[00:10:54]>> South Carolina's current congressional delegation includes seven members, six Republicans and one Democrat. The proposal there could lead to Republicans winning all seven seats in November.

[00:11:04]Reporting from Washington DC, Chris Bob, NTD News.

[00:11:09]And the FBI raided the office and business of Virginia Senator L. Louise Lucas this morning in Portsouth. The FBI did not specify the reason. Local media WAVY also interviewed Lucas's daughter who confirmed the FBI search. She said it had quote nothing to do with healthcare. I don't know. They're here to search everything. It comes just weeks after Lucas led an effort to pass a statewide referendum to redraw Virginia's congressional map, which would give Democrats 10 seats and Republicans just one. In a statement to media, the FBI said they were executing a court court authorized federal search warrant. Also saying there is no threat to public safety. This is an ongoing investigation and no further information is publicly available at this time.

[00:11:55]And a new legal challenge over gun laws is unfolding in Colorado as the Justice Department files suit over what it calls unconstitutional restrictions. Entities Arlene Richards brings us more on that.

[00:12:07]A new legal challenge over gun laws is now underway in Colorado. Assistant Attorney General Har Dylan has filed a lawsuit against the state challenging its ban on firearm magazines that hold over 15 rounds of ammunition. She argues that many popular firearms have magazines with a standard capacity that's greater than this amount and that the restriction violates the Constitution. The lawsuit claims the law infringes on Second Amendment rights by limiting access to commonlyowned firearm components. This comes just a day after Dylan filed a separate lawsuit against the city of Denver. Also challenging local firearm bans on similar constitutional grounds. There she targets the city's bans on certain semi-automatic rifles, including AR-15s.

[00:12:54]>> It's illegal. You have a right to have these firearms. Citizens of Denver should not be stripped of that right by virtue of the city limits.

[00:13:04]>> While state representatives have yet to respond, the mayor of Denver didn't mince words in response to a letter the DOJ sent urging him to end the ban.

[00:13:13]>> No, we will not roll back a common sense policy that has kept weapons of war off of these city streets for 37 years.

[00:13:21]>> Together, the cases signal a broader push to roll back gun restrictions at both the state and local level. Dylan suggested to just the news that the issue could ultimately be decided by the US Supreme Court, predicting the justices may eventually rule that AR-15 style rifles are protected under the Constitution nationwide. If that happens, it could have sweeping implications for gun laws across the country. For now, both cases are expected to move through the courts where judges will weigh how far constitutional protections extend.

[00:13:52]Arlene Richards, NTD News.

[00:13:56]Next, Ted Turner, the founder of CNN, died today at the age of 87. An announcement says he passed peacefully, surrounded by family. Turner is described as a maverick entrepreneur who had a heart for the environment. ND correspondent Jason Blair brings us more.

[00:14:12]>> Media entrepreneur and philanthropist Ted Turner passed away on Wednesday at the age of 87. Turner is the founder of media giant CNN, which he started in 1980, making it the very first 24-hour old news network. Turner Enterprises, writing on Wednesday, "On behalf of the Turner family, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of philanthropist, environmentalist, and cable pioneer Ted Turner, who died peacefully today at age 87, surrounded by his family. Turner founded other networks in addition to CNN, including Cartoon Network, TNT, and TCM. He was also described as a conservationist who cared about the environment, helping to preserve over 2 million acres of land.

[00:14:56]He also created a cartoon character named Captain Planet to help educate kids about the environment. Current CNN CEO Mark Thompson comments on Turner's passing.

[00:15:07]>> Well, and what a complete what a complete legend uh he was, and is he was unique. He's a unique figure and we've lost one of our giants.

[00:15:15]>> President Trump also commenting on Turner, saying one of the greats of broadcast history and a friend of mine.

[00:15:21]Whenever I needed him, he was there always willing to fight for a good cause. Trump also says he founded CNN, sold it, and was personally devastated by the deal because the new ownership took CNN, his baby, and destroyed it.

[00:15:34]Maybe the new buyers, wonderful people, will be able to bring it back to its former credibility and glory. Turner sold CNN to Time Warner in 1996, which was eventually merged with Warner Brothers. In April, shareholders approved a new acquisition by Paramount Skyance. The new deal has not yet been finalized. Jason Blair, NTD News.

[00:15:56]And the latest on a luxury cruise ship being hit with an outbreak of the HA virus. Multiple passengers are now being evacuated to Europe. The ship is linked to three casualties already. Entities international correspondent Arian Pazdar has the latest.

[00:16:10]The luxury cruise ship MV Hondas being at the center of a deadly hent virus outbreak. The ship is currently anchored off the coast of Cape Verde in Africa.

[00:16:20]Multiple passengers with suspected infections are being evacuated from the ship on Wednesday. A plane carrying three people landing in the Netherlands.

[00:16:29]Ambulances took in the evacuees as soon as the plane touched down. Data shows another flight believed to be carrying evacuees landing in the Canary Islands before continuing to Malaga, Spain. The remaining 150 passengers are waiting to be brought to the Canary Islands as well, a Spanish territory off the coast of Africa, which includes famous islands such as Tenneref.

[00:16:51]>> I think the passengers they are in their cabins uh trying to entertain them as much as they can. Swedish doctor Martin Critz used to work on board the MV Hondas. He says the doctor currently on the ship can only provide supportive care to sick patients.

[00:17:08]>> I think he or she is under quite tremendous pressure. I mean you have three passengers has died on the ship.

[00:17:15]So that that's a lot of pressure.

[00:17:17]>> H virus usually spreads by inhaling contaminated rodent droppings. Two officials from Argentina say the government's leading hypothesis is that a Dutch couple contracted the virus while bird watching in the city of Ushua before boarding. The World Health Organization says there have been no changes to the South American strain of the virus which would have made it more transmissible.

[00:17:39]>> Say that since the beginning we've been assuming that is it is the Andes virus just given the path of the ship given that it started in Argentina and that it's been moving up the coast of Africa in the Atlantic. A person who was on the ship says after the first death the captain told people that the casualty was due to natural causes not an infection.

[00:18:00]>> These vessels are at sea for weeks and uh all the passengers are all together.

[00:18:06]I think uh some tests should have been required. Regulations should be updating regarding this. Despite the three casualties, the British government says it's important to remind people that the risk to the general public remains very low. Arian Pastar, NTD News.

[00:18:25]Coming up, police keeping protesters away from a house of worship in New York City, upholding the new law in which the police decide the distance protesters must maintain.

[00:18:35]And who will succeed California Governor Gavin Newsome? Gubanatorial candidates faced off again Tuesday in California debating immigration, healthcare, and the state's high cost of living.

[00:18:45]Christina Corona reports.

[00:18:48]And millions of iPhone owners could get anywhere from $25 to $95. This after a class action lawsuit that claims Apple failed to deliver certain device features as advertised. David Lamb brings us more.

[00:19:10]Welcome back to NCTD evening news. I'm Carrie Dunst. Police in New York City kept protesters at a distance from the Park East Synagogue on Tuesday. That's after the city introduced a new law keeping protesters from getting too close to houses of worship. A protest at that same location was what prompted the law in the first place. And Shawn Marshall has more details on the event.

[00:19:34]The NYPD used barricades to keep protesters from getting too close to a land sale event at Park East Synagogue in Manhattan, New York on Tuesday.

[00:19:43]Police now figure out the distance that protesters must remain away from religious buildings. Last year, a new law was thought up when a protest took place at the same synagogue. At that time, protesters shouted statements like death to the IDF, prompting the idea of the new law.

[00:20:00]>> Uh, we live in the area. We are proud Jews and welcome got on our way to dinner and we run into this you know protest that's happening which is extremely you know terrifying actually for the Jewish community. We reside here uh we go to school around here we work here. We have our kosher supermarket which you know the irony actually the biggest irony of where they are protesting is if you take a look they are protesting on 67mm way and why this is so triggering for someone like myself is I am a granddaughter to four Holocaust survivors. So, I actually just got back from Poland a month ago uh on a family trip where I spent 10 days on a persecution tour, seeing where my family and community were slaughtered. 6 million of those. And today to see a protest on 67th Street on Yadvashm Way, uh it makes me feel some type of way.

[00:20:59]>> The NYPD decided how placement of protesters and counterprotesters would be set up as people started to show up.

[00:21:05]The new law now gives the NYPD full discretion in handling distancing protocols. It's barricades like these that the NYPD must place around the city every time a protest takes place or a march stops at a new location. The NYPD is constantly tracking and predicting where protesters might target as a new direction or location.

[00:21:29]As the protest began marching to other locations like nearby Hunter College, the NYPD was able to keep up and reorganize protesters and counterprotesters.

[00:21:39]>> When people see these protests, I don't think they appreciate the toll that these have taken on Hunter College students. Uh the protest started right after October 7th and at the same time a bunch of campus organizations uh especially the Muslim Students Association, Pakistani students, all these chartered campus groups put out statements praising the October 7th terrorist attack. Uh they said if I recall that it showed dignity and strength and made them feel empowered.

[00:22:06]After blocking traffic for a while, the protesters ended up getting pepper-sprayed after taking a random turn into a playground and residential area. Shortly after that, the protests dispersed and protesters slowly began leaving.

[00:22:20]>> Well, with God's help, the Judaism has one position and that is we are to serve God. We are forbidden to steal or kill.

[00:22:30]Uh we do don't sell our name or transform Judaism to some nationalist movement.

[00:22:37]>> The NYPD often uses multiple tactics when dealing with protests as they can quickly change and get chaotic. Sean Marshall, NTD News.

[00:22:46]>> New York's finest indeed. Thanks to Sean for that report. Next, a Chinese-born US citizen is on trial this week in federal court in New York. He's accused of taking orders from the Chinese Communist regime to perform illegal actions in the US, including opening a Chinese police station right here in the heart of Manhattan. Entities Flora Hua was in the courtroom. Here's the latest from the trial. Can a US citizen open a Chinese police station here in America without telling the US government and also at the CCP's direction? That's a central concern of this trial. United States v.

[00:23:21]Lujian Wong Lou is accused of conspiracy and of acting as an unregistered foreign agent for the Chinese regime. He is also charged with obstruction of justice.

[00:23:31]Prosecutors say he deleted messages with a Chinese handler after the FBI became aware of his alleged activities. Federal prosecutors and defense attorneys both finished the opening statements during today's trial. Defendant Lu Jian Wong, also known as Harryu, has been accused of setting up a Chinese police station in Chinatown in lower Manhattan. In China, the Ministry of Public Security, also known as the MPS, oversees the country's police force. Unlike police agencies in many other countries, Chinese authorities are tasked by the CCP with suppressing pro-democracy activists, faith groups, and other dissident. And prosecutors say that campaign has extended overseas. In 2022, China's Ministry of Public Security launched a plan to establish overseas branches. Prosecutors alleged Lou flew back to China to attend the launch meeting. They say Lou later returned to the US and helped open a Chinese police station in Manhattan. His defense attorney argues the office was set up to help Chinese nationals renew driver's licenses. But the prosecutors say his actions violate laws and undermines US sovereignty. According to court documents, Lou admitted to the FBI that he worked with a former director of China's MPS 610 office. The office was launched to specifically target faith group Falong. Lu also admitted to taking part in CCP's organized counterprotests against the Falong practitioners in Washington DC.

[00:25:14]Now, L's codefendant, Chenzin Ping, has pleaded guilty in 2024 and is awaiting sentencing, one year after they both were arrested. Lou has pleaded not guilty to all charges. If convicted on all counts, he faces up to 20 to 25 years in prison. Reporting from Brooklyn, New York, Flora, NTD News.

[00:25:36]And the CCP's secret police stations and influence in the US doesn't just impact Chinese immigrants. Can also sabotage US businesses as well as the legal system.

[00:25:45]Analysis tonight on Capital Report with Steve Lance at 700 p.m. Eastern time just after Entity Evening News.

[00:25:52]And a jury has found a Chinese national guilty of fraudulently selling more than a million COVID tests. Prosecutors say he rad in nearly 4 million through his Californiabased company.

[00:26:04]Ja Baiju was convicted after a jury found he deliberately deceived the public by repackaging low-quality foreignade test kits. J then distributed the tests which were misbranded and falsely represented as FDA approved. J scheme was first uncovered in 2022 when one of the victims filed a civil lawsuit against his company. An inspection of his Fresno facility revealed a bolab that failed to meet established quality standards for facilities that house medical devices. According to the Justice Department, the facility also housed pathogens and toxins in juice, soda, and other inappropriate containers. Juice sensing is now scheduled for August.

[00:26:49]In California's race for governor is continuing to take shape as the candidates returned to the debate stage.

[00:26:55]During Tuesday night's televised debate in California, candidates sparred over immigration, healthcare, as well as the economy. Entities Christina Corona has more on that. Seven California gubanatorial candidates took the debate stage Tuesday night in Monterey Park for a live CNN debate. Candidates qualified by meeting state ballot requirements, raising or contributing at least $1 million, and pulling at 3% or higher.

[00:27:21]Katie Porter defended California's sanctuary state policies.

[00:27:25]>> The sanctuary state policy is designed to make sure that our state resources, the taxpayer dollars, the public servants that we have are focusing on doing their jobs, which is not cooperating with the federal immigration authorities. These are Californians.

[00:27:42]They contribute to our economy. They pay taxes. And they're one of the only ways that our state has been growing in recent years.

[00:27:48]>> I think we need to help small businesses create jobs and opportunity. And for Californians to be able to earn more and live the California dream and for entrepreneurs to want to start businesses in California. That's how we should be growing our economy, not by illegal immigration.

[00:28:04]>> Candidates also debated health care costs. Here's San Jose Mayor Matt Mayan.

[00:28:10]The reality is our healthare system is broken. 30% of the cost in California is an administrative cost. We can use technology to bring down those costs.

[00:28:20]>> Tom Styer said he supports singlepayer healthare.

[00:28:24]>> Singlepayer health care systems cost half as much as the system in total that we have now. And yes, it's going to be a big, you know, job to get us to singlepayer. But the truth is, we don't have a choice because right now, people are suffering. They're giving up health care. Every medical crisis turns into a financial disaster.

[00:28:47]>> Two new polls released this week provide an early look at the race. A Survey USA poll puts Republican Steve Hilton ahead at 20%, followed by Democrat Tom Styer at 18%. A separate poll conducted by the California Democratic Party Schultz Hilton and Democrat Javier Bacera tied at 18% each. The next debate is scheduled for May 6th in Los Angeles.

[00:29:10]Christina Corona, NTD News.

[00:29:15]>> Coming up, US forces operating in the Gulf of Oman disables an Iranian flagged oil tanker today in international waters.

[00:29:24]And Iran's foreign minister visits Beijing amid the US naval blockade as well as President Trump's upcoming visit to China. We'll speak with retired Colonel Rob Mayus about that as well as his new book, What You Can Do About It.

[00:29:45]Welcome back to Entity Evening News. I'm Carrie Dunst. US Central Command says 52 vessels have been redirected amid the blockade of Iranian ports. A photo posted on X showed the USS George HW Bush, an aircraft carrier among the US warships, aircraft, and personnel that are enforcing the naval blockade. US forces operating in the Gulf of Oman, disabled an Iranian flagged oil tanker today in international waters. Sentcom said the vessel had been on its way to an Iranian port. According to SenCom, American forces issued multiple warnings, informing the ship that it was in violation of the US blockade. After the tanker crews failed to comply, a US Navy F-18 Super Hornet from the USS Abraham Lincoln fired several rounds, disabling the vessel's rudder. Sentcom said the blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports remain in full effect.

[00:30:41]And Iran's foreign minister Abbas Aaragachi is in Beijing now for talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

[00:30:48]Joining us now to discuss the alignment of Tan and Beijing is retired Colonel Rob Mayus who served as a wing and squadron commander in the US Air Force.

[00:30:55]He's also the author of the new book What You Can Do About It: Taking Real Action Against Corruption, Radicalism, and Moral Decay to Save America.

[00:31:03]Colonel, thank you for joining us. I'd like to start with your thoughts on Iran's foreign minister visiting Beijing relative to the current moment with the Iran War.

[00:31:12]Uh thank you Carrie. And it just shows the signs uh that are ever growing desperation amongst the Iranians who think they are in control of their government. Unfortunately, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is in control of Iran right now. And no matter who the politicians or the political arm uh is that speak says they're speaking for them, unless they have IRGC approval, they're not going to get anywhere. And that's why he's talking to the Chinese.

[00:31:42]The Chinese and the Iranian government have a longstanding mutual relationship of economics and defense. We proved that the Chinese uh so-called stealth killer radars were totally ineffective against actual stealth platforms in Operation Epic Fury and in Midnight Hammer last year. So, the Chinese have a vested interest in this. The other interest is economic. Uh 90% of Iran's oil exports go to China. So, the Chinese are feeling the squeeze and if there's a diplomatic opening that they think they can find with the Iranians, I think they're going to go there and try that. And it's probably I'm guessing that they may have something to do with the president uh not cancelling but pausing Project Freedom, the defensive operation in the Straight of Hormoons. But as you could see, you know, a blockade is still an act of war. We're actively engaged in it. uh and uh we won't hesitate to use force to maintain that blockade and that hits Iranian economics more than anything, but it's also hitting the Chinese.

[00:32:48]>> And then what are your expectations then for President Trump's visit to Beijing in just over a week now?

[00:32:55]I would think that there may be some conversations going on right now, which is why the president made his decision on Project Freedom, but the president holds uh almost all of the cards going into that meeting. And President Xi needs to be ready to talk real agreements that result in the enriched uranium being taken by us. Uh and the Iranians agreeing that they will never try to pursue development of a nuclear weapon ever again. and all of the other pieces of our agreement. There really is no room for the Iranians to maneuver here. Unless they accept the terms that President Trump and his team have laid out, uh there is not going to be any agreement from a diplomatic perspective and we're counting on the Chinese to continue to put pressure on the Iranian.

[00:33:43]Secretary Treasury Scott Besson actually said as much not too long ago.

[00:33:49]>> And where do you see there being the most tension in these talks?

[00:33:54]that is going to be around the Chinese economic issues uh because they're already having to buy uh oil and gas from the United States of America in order to uh help their friends and allies in the Pacific region and bolster up uh the oil supply there so prices don't skyrocket any more than they already have. Uh the other piece of the pressure is the Chinese defense industry and ship building industry is going to be put under pressure and is being put under pressure because of the lack of uh oil and gas and energy that's they're used to coming out of the Persian Gulf and that part of the world. It's no longer there. So, so much uh to consider as these monumental uh discussions come into play next week and as you say, the groundwork likely already being laid and uh President Trump probably knowing exactly what he's walking into when he gets there. I do want to segue now to your new book. You wrote a book entitled What You Can Do About It: Taking Real Action Against Corruption, Radicalism, and Moral Decay to Save America. So, tell us about the book and and why you felt the need to write this book.

[00:35:01]Well, people have asked me since I first entered the political arena in 2013 in a US Senate race in Louisiana uh to write a book. Uh but I didn't want to just write a biography. I wanted to write something that people could actually get value out of and use uh have a useful uhness to it. Uh so we did a combination of stories and anecdotes from my life experiences uh growing up with a military dad and a family from West Tennessee. uh uh and uh and my career in the military of 32 years as an enlisted and officer uh rising up through the ranks from E1 to full colonel and commanding several times and being in the Pentagon on 911. So we used antidotes from those and my experiences in the political world and and why I've done some of the things I've done. And the reason for the title of the book is the most often asked question, Carrie, that I've ever gotten. Whether I was talking to two people in uniform as a non-commission officer, I was having a commander call with hundreds of people in the room or a public town hall meeting uh in the community, as an elected official or as a candidate and talking to uh voters in town halls. What was the most often asked question I got when we're talking about how do we address a specific issue that has people upset and they want changed? Ask yourself the question, what can I do about that? The right in this country has been out organized, outfunded and out activists uh for many many decades now. And this book is for them. the American people, the people that the citizens that still believe in the de declaration of independence that we're celebrating this year and its 250th anniversary, not necessarily Republicans, but those that believe in America and all the values we stand for as opposed to the left and the Marxist values that they stand for and they push all along. We want to out organize them, outf fun ourselves, and take real action at our level and not have to rely on anybody else to come for us because the cavalry is not coming. We're it.

[00:37:09]>> Well, and the best part is no matter what you believe or or what you're working toward, the call to action in the title of the book is just so applicable. What you know, just just get out there and take some action. And and you dedicate this book to Charlie Kirk.

[00:37:24]Charlie was known as an optimist. he loved America. You know, Turning Point would give out constit copies of the Constitution, you know, um and that benefits all people. So, what would you say for those that are worried about America's future, especially, you know, during a time of war?

[00:37:42]>> You don't have to worry about it because men like Charlie Kirk, I met I met him in 2013 when we both entered the political arena at about the same time.

[00:37:50]He was still 19. And I was frustrated with talking to my uh political campaign people about wanting to get into universities and college campuses and talk to these Americans that I had commanded because most of the people I commanded and they're in the tens of thousands uh were under the age of 22 and were college age. Uh and I know how to talk to him and we couldn't do it.

[00:38:11]But I met Charlie Kirk and saw that he was doing it and we supported each other especially through social media and messaging uh for the rest of his life.

[00:38:19]uh and I continue to do so now and uh I'm honored to dedicate this book to him and his work but also to America because that's what his work symbolized. So I am not overly worried about the future of America but we've got to do the work as Charlie said all the time. Got to do the work.

[00:38:37]>> Well, inspiring words indeed. Colonel Rob Mayus, the new book, What You Can Do About It. Folks, you can find it on Amazon. Thank you for joining us, Colonel.

[00:38:45]>> Thank you, Carrie.

[00:38:48]Next, millions of iPhone owners could be getting money back from Apple. This comes after a class action lawsuit that claims Apple failed to deliver certain advertised device features. Andd's David Lamb reports.

[00:39:00]>> If you bought your iPhone from 2024 to 2025, you may be able to get up to $95 in a settlement. Now, the settlement, which Apple already confirmed, comes amid a race between smartphone manufacturers over artificial intelligence. Owners of all models of iPhone 16 and certain models of iPhone 15 who purchase the devices between June 10th, 2024 and March 29th, 2025 may be eligible to submit a claim for monetary relief. Users can expect $25 per device, which could decrease or go up to $95 per device depending on the number of claims and other factors. Lawyers are trying to get a preliminary approval of $250 million in a class action case against Apple. Customers alleged that Apple's advertising misled customers by promising enhanced Siri personal digital assistance. The lawsuit states Apple promoted AI capabilities that did not exist at the time, do not exist now, and will not exist for two or more years, if ever. A local in California told NTD that it comes down to transparency. The advertising should have truth to it. So yeah, I mean if it says it has whatever function, then the phone should should be able to do it. There has been no finding of liability and Apple denies it did anything wrong. Apple said in a statement that it has reached a settlement to resolve claims related to the availability of two additional features, saying, "We resolved this matter to stay focused on doing what we do best, delivering the most innovative products and services to our users."

[00:40:39]Millions of people bought or upgraded to the iPhone 16, which could cost over $800.

[00:40:46]The settlement covers approximately 37 million devices purchased in the United States. And Clarkson Law Firm, the firm that's behind the lawsuit, says in a few weeks a settlement link will be available online. David Lamb, NTD News, California.

[00:41:03]And earlier this week, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unveiling plans to reduce what he says is the overuse of psychiatric medications. What do everyday Americans make of the initiative? ND Sam Wong was out on the National Mall in DC to hear from the people.

[00:41:19]>> Secretary RFK Jr. was talking about the overprescribing of a psychiatric medication. Do you feel like this is something that needs to be addressed?

[00:41:26]>> Yes, absolutely. And >> I also think that uh likely one prescription leads to another and another and another um and that I feel like we need to get to the root of the problem.

[00:41:37]>> I work in that field. I I work uh in in special ed and I I think there I've had students that have, you know, been prescribed way too many drugs. I think they need to really look at it a little bit more when they do prescribe that stuff. Overprescribing is definitely a problem because it keeps people dependent on something. It's a it's uh putting a band-aid essentially on on a flesh wound on something that probably needs to be flushed out without all these psychiatric drugs.

[00:42:00]>> I've been on prescribed a wide range of psycho psychotropic drugs throughout my 20s, 30s and now I don't take anything.

[00:42:10]They make it worse and with my experience they make it a lot worse.

[00:42:14]>> Not only that, but it's so addictive.

[00:42:17]There's no endgame to it. It's a continuing cycle. If they take you off of one, they put you on another. If they take you off of that one, they put you on another.

[00:42:24]>> Do you feel like too many people going to these treatments not knowing sort of the adverse effect and how long they're going to be staying on those medications?

[00:42:30]>> I I think so. Yeah, I I think that is the case. I think that um you know, there's not enough information out there about some of them. If the doctor prescribes me something, I'm probably going to take it. Um but they do need to let these people know what what they're taking. I think >> I think there needs to be more education. Absolutely. as far as the drugs um that are being prescribed to these um to the patients.

[00:42:52]>> That's because of the pharmaceutical reps give kickbacks to the doctors for prescribing a quot. Just like most companies have a sales quota, doctors also have quotas to make for prescriptions as well.

[00:43:04]>> 100%. I also don't think they know the side effects of getting off of them.

[00:43:08]Like any drug or drug you're prescribed, there's side effects and a come down off of them. as simple as pills as Adaban anti-depressants and you know I've seen friends come off of them and it's not pretty.

[00:43:19]>> I think there's there's different paths and different routes that we need to explore and it probably starts with uh with our food source and what we put in our bodies.

[00:43:27]>> Coming up in the NBA playoffs, the Sixers will try to even up their series against the Knicks. But what about the status of Joel Embiid? Dave Martin joins us with the latest.

[00:43:59]And now for your sports news, we're joined by NTD's Dave Martin. Dave, I know that there's some NFL news, there's some horse racing news, but let's prioritize and execute on the NBA playoffs.

[00:44:10]>> You got it, Carrie.

[00:44:11]>> And the Knicks. What's happening with the Knicks?

[00:44:13]>> Well, you know, they might have an easier time tonight. 76er center Joel Embiid out for tonight's game. He's got a pair of injury injuries, actually.

[00:44:22]He's got a sprained right ankle and a sore right hip. Now, Embiid previously had been listed on Monday's injury report as probable for game one with just a bruised right hip. He did end up playing though. Now, this is not the first time he's actually been injured in these playoffs. A sevenfooter missed the first three games against Boston in round one while recovering from an appendecttomy. You know, he still averaged 25 points and eight rebounds per and eight rebounds per game in the five playoff games he's played thus far.

[00:44:49]So, the Knicks will not have to face him tonight. Admittedly, they didn't have a huge problem with him and the Sixers on Monday night, winning that game by 39 points to take a one- nothing lead.

[00:44:58]Tonight's game starts in just a few minutes, 700 p.m. Eastern time, taking place at Madison Square Gardener. Then at 9:30, we've got Minnesota playing at San Antonio, the Timberwolves.

[00:45:09]Surprisingly, Timberwolves won game one on Monday night, despite Victor Wanyama's triple double that included a dozen blocked shots. That's got to get a little get a get a little old having your shots getting constantly blocked.

[00:45:23]But they uh they held on to win. It was quite imp. I'm very impressed by Minnesota this far, I must say. And I am very impressed by the Knicks. I I got to say too, the East the East is wide open right now. The Knicks are looking very good the past week. That's for sure. I don't want to get your hopes too high, Carrie.

[00:45:38]>> OKC lurking in the background, though.

[00:45:40]>> OKC that that's that's in the finals, you know, wait till they that plays out.

[00:45:45]Eastern Conference, they look very good at this point, I would say.

[00:45:48]>> All right, let's I know it's not even the late summer, but let's talk J gets Jets. Jets Jets. What's happening there?

[00:45:55]Well, you know, the Jets are looking to get a backup quarterback. They could have the Giants old backup quarterback, Russell Wilson. He was a Giants starter at the beginning of last season. He could be. He's at least says he's in talks with the Jets about becoming their quarterback this year. Now, he was the Giants starter last year before rookie Jackson Dart took over. He is a 10time Pro Bowl selection though and he would be backing up Gino Smith for the Jets who the Jets brought over in a trade uh earlier this off seasonason from the the Las Vegas Raiders. Now, interestingly, Gino Smith was the backup to Wilson out in Seattle previously for three seasons though when the two were with the Seahawks. But after trading Wilson away in 2022, Wilson, I'm sorry, Smith, Gina Smith really flourished as their starter there being a two-time Pro Bowl selection. Now, meanwhile, Jet New Jets offensive coordinator Frank Wright says Russell Wilson fits perfect for the Jets. But, you know, Wilson told the New York Post he's also considering a TV offer. The Athletic Report last week Wilson is in talks with CBS about becoming an NFL studio analyst. So, you know, the Jets lose to most NFL teams.

[00:47:04]They could be losing to a TV station this time around.

[00:47:08]>> It's a cushier role, I must say, than being actually out on the grid iron. and he's got that bling on his finger. So, he really doesn't have anything to prove, but he lit it up for the Giants in one of those games early in the season last year. If you had him on your fantasy team, it was a breakout game.

[00:47:21]But then, of course, he didn't make it through the full season with them.

[00:47:24]>> You know, he's 37 years old. He's he's got some miles on him for sure, but the guy he looked like he looks like to me he can still play. And the Jets, you know, they haven't they haven't got that high high of a standard yet. I mean, you never know what could happen. He could still he could still end up being starting for them. I think he would be a much needed backup uh for the Jets. I mean, the Jets, let's be honest, at many of their positions don't really have a overall the team just overall doesn't have a very high standard. You know, that that's all I'm trying to say.

[00:47:52]>> All right, let's talk horse racing.

[00:47:54]Sorry to be a spoiler, but there will not be a Triple Crown winner. Am I understanding?

[00:47:58]>> You are understanding that correct.

[00:47:59]Kentucky Derby winner Golden Temple will not run in next week's PNness event.

[00:48:05]This is the second leg of the horse racing's Triple Crown. In a statement, uh, Golden Tempo trainer Sherry Devos said, and quote, "Golden gave us the race of a lifetime in the Kentucky Derby, and we believe the best decision for him moving forward is to give him a little more time following such a tremendous effort." End quote. Now, just to put this in perspective, none of the other 17 horses that ran in the Kentucky Derby last week will will also be in the prius, which is scheduled for Saturday, May 16. Now, the reasons are believed to be the same that the once commonplace two-week turnaround uh is just too quick. Most horses follow more of a one month turnaround. So, it appears Golden Temple will focus on the Belmont Stakes instead, which is a third leg of the Triple Crown. That race will take place June 6 at Saratoga Racecourse in upstate New York. So, we've got that race to look forward to.

[00:48:55]>> It'll be quite a show. Thanks for joining, Dave.

[00:48:57]>> Thank you, Carrie. And that is all the time we have for today's news, but for round the clock original coverage, you can always watch us live at ntd.com live or you can use our NTD app. Thanks for watching. I'm Carrie Dunst. Good night.