Friday's Final Word: Cohen's Retirement, COVID Scams, and International Affairs

This compilation of news and commentary includes several key topics. It begins with a call for attendees to a funeral for a WWII veteran, followed by the announcement of Rep. Steve Cohen's retirement from Congress after his district was redrawn. Cohen expressed that the new districts were designed to defeat him. The article also touches on a $10 billion COVID scam involving the "Shuttered Venue Operators Grant," with funds allegedly misused by performers and agents. The government is cracking down on fraud, estimating $180 billion was stolen last year, primarily through Medicare and Medicaid scams. The commentary then shifts to political perspectives, including a discussion on the modern Democratic Party's approach to governance. The piece also includes analysis of the legal complexities surrounding a defamation case involving Israel and The New York Times, and a look at the publication's slogan. Additionally, the article features a piece from Douglas Murray on the conditions in Israeli prisons and the claims made by Nicholas Kristof. The article also covers a report on the U.S. delegation's actions in Beijing, including the disposal of all Chinese-provided items. Furthermore, it addresses sanctuary cities and counties in the context of immigration, and discusses China's stance on Iran. The Texas Supreme Court's denial of a push to expel Democratic lawmakers is also mentioned, along with observations on the upcoming debate challenge between Joe Biden and Donald Trump. The article