President Joe Biden warned in a speech that democracy itself is in peril; North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles; and Kyrie Irving took responsibility for his apparent support of an antisemitic film. These stories highlight the Daily Rundown for Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022.
Biden democracy warning – In a Wednesday night speech, President Biden warned that the U.S. system of governance is under threat from former President Donald Trump’s election-denying lies and the violence Biden said they inspire. In the speech, which was similar to one Biden made back in September, he referred to last week’s attack on Paul Pelosi as an example of said violence.
“This institution, this intimidation, this violence against Democrats, Republicans and nonpartisan officials just doing their jobs are the consequence of lies told for power and profit,” Biden said. “We must vote knowing what’s at stake and not just the policy of the moment, but institutions that have held us together as we sought a more perfect union are also at stake.”
Latest North Korea missile launch – In keeping with a recent trend, North Korea filed more missiles Thursday. This includes a possible failed intercontinental ballistic missile that triggered an alert for residents in parts of central and northern Japan to seek shelter.
“I can’t go out to sea with peace of mind. It’s dangerous,” a Japanese fisherman said Thursday. “I thought it was someone else’s problem, but it’s dangerous and I have to be careful.”
Irving takes “responsibility” for tweet – Kyrie Irving said Wednesday he took responsibility for the negative impact on the Jewish community that was caused by his apparent support of an antisemitic film on Twitter. Last week, Irving posted a link to the film “Hebrews to Negroes: Wake Up Black America.” The owner of the Brooklyn Nets, Irving’s team, described the film as “based on a book full of antisemitic disinformation.”
While not explicitly apologizing for his tweet, Irving and the Nets announced they will each donate $500,000 to groups that work to eradicate hate.
“I oppose all forms of hatred and oppression and stand strong with communities that are marginalized and impacted every day,” Irving said in a joint statement with the Nets and Anti-Defamation League. “I am aware of the negative impact of my post towards the Jewish community and I take responsibility.”
The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.