Category Archives: politics

Mapping a Democratic sweep across Virginia, New Jersey and New York – News India Times

Voters shifted sharply to the left across Virginia, New Jersey, and New York City in elections held Tuesday, November 4, 2025, sweeping Democrats into office. These candidates focused on affordability and capitalized on growing frustration with President Donald Trump.

More than 2 million New York City voters—the highest turnout since 1969—turned out to elect a democratic socialist as mayor, rejecting a former governor who was once a standard-bearer for the Democratic Party.

Four years ago, Republicans enjoyed a wave of support that gave them the governorship in Virginia and made the New Jersey race much closer than Democrats had expected. Meanwhile, a moderate Democrat replaced a more liberal one in New York City Hall. This time, however, the political energy in all three places shifted distinctly toward Democrats and the left wing of the party.

### Virginia: A Leftward Shift Across the State

In every county and independent city in Virginia, Democrat Abigail Spanberger outperformed Terry McAuliffe—the Democrat who lost to Republican Glenn Youngkin in the 2021 gubernatorial race. According to a Washington Post analysis, Spanberger exceeded McAuliffe’s vote share by a median of 13 percentage points across these areas.

She also outperformed Kamala Harris, last year’s Democratic presidential nominee, in more than 95 percent of Virginia’s counties and independent cities, topping her vote share by a median of three percentage points.

Spanberger flipped six counties or independent cities that Trump had won in 2024, including three that had shifted from President Joe Biden to Trump—Prince Edward, Surry, and Lynchburg.

Her gains were comprehensive, spanning rural, suburban, and urban areas. Spanberger won both Democratic strongholds and swing areas, while also chipping into traditionally Republican counties. Notably, she secured large margins in the Washington D.C., Richmond, and Virginia Beach metropolitan areas. Whereas McAuliffe won those regions by 251,000 votes in 2021, Spanberger was leading them by about 700,000 votes based on incomplete tallies available as of Wednesday morning.

She also flipped 15 counties that McAuliffe had lost, most located in metropolitan areas such as Virginia Beach, Stafford, and Spotsylvania—counties that Youngkin won by large margins in 2021. In other areas, she lost by smaller margins than McAuliffe, outperforming him by nearly 20 points in Republican-dominated Southwest Virginia, including Bristol and Montgomery.

Spanberger dominated Loudoun County, winning it by 29 percentage points compared to McAuliffe’s 11-point win there four years ago, and Harris’s 16-point margin last year.

Similarly, Jay Jones, who won the attorney general’s race but lagged behind Spanberger, outperformed Harris’s margin in Loudoun County, winning by 19 points despite bipartisan condemnations related to violent texts he authored years ago.

### New Jersey: Solid Democratic Support

In New Jersey, Democrat Mikie Sherrill won by a much wider margin than Governor Phil Murphy (D), who narrowly secured a second term four years ago. Both faced Republican Jack Ciattarelli, but Sherrill secured a more comfortable victory by earning significant support across the state.

Sherrill outpaced both Murphy and Harris in every county. Her strongest performances compared to Harris came in counties that had shifted most toward Trump in 2024, including Passaic and Hudson counties, where Latinos make up over 40 percent of the population.

Trump had made notable gains in these counties last year and flipped Passaic. However, Sherrill won both counties, outperforming Harris by 11 points in Hudson and by nine points in Passaic. She also won four other counties that Trump carried the previous year.

### New York City: A Democratic Socialist Victory

In New York City, 34-year-old Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist and member of the State Assembly, defeated former governor Andrew M. Cuomo by a larger margin on Tuesday than he did in the Democratic primary five months ago.

Mamdani expanded his earlier coalition of younger, college-educated, and liberal voters in Manhattan and nearby gentrifying neighborhoods. He performed particularly well in precincts with fewer voters over age 60, where turnout was higher in this election compared to 2021.

He carried four of the city’s five boroughs in early, unofficial results, with Cuomo carrying only Staten Island, the city’s most conservative borough—one that Trump had won in each of his elections.

Cuomo attempted to rebuild the coalition formed by Mayor Eric Adams four years ago, which primarily included non-White and conservative-leaning voters in the outer boroughs. Cuomo gained additional support after Adams withdrew from the race and Trump endorsed him at the last minute, encouraging Republicans to abandon their nominee, Curtis Sliwa.

Despite this, the strategy failed. Cuomo lost by a wider margin than Sliwa’s total vote share.

In the Bronx, Mamdani made his strongest gains relative to Cuomo in the general election. Cuomo’s supporters had sought to weaken Mamdani’s momentum by highlighting his criticism of Israel’s war in Gaza.

Mamdani, who aims to become New York City’s first Muslim mayor and its youngest in a century, managed to draw widespread support across the city and made significant inroads in areas where Trump had gained ground last year.

He increased his support among Black and Hispanic voters, gaining 35 percentage points in areas with a Black plurality and 11 points in Hispanic neighborhoods compared with the primary.

### Looking Ahead

Democrats interpret these off-year election victories as a clear sign that voters are unhappy with President Trump and are ready to deliver them the House majority in next year’s midterm elections. Currently, Republicans hold a narrow 219-213 majority in the House, and several races could be pivotal in determining the chamber’s control.

*Graphics courtesy of The Washington Post*
[https://washingtonpost.com/](https://washingtonpost.com/)
https://newsindiatimes.com/mapping-a-democratic-sweep-across-virginia-new-jersey-and-new-york/

States Can Now Verify Voter Citizenship Using Partial Social Security Numbers – News India Times

**USCIS Expands SAVE Program to Simplify Voter Citizenship Verification**

WASHINGTON — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced an important upgrade to its Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, enabling states to verify voter citizenship using only the last four digits of a Social Security number instead of the full nine-digit number.

This enhancement is designed to reinforce the integrity of U.S. elections by allowing state officials to confirm that only U.S. citizens are casting ballots in federal elections.

“USCIS remains dedicated to eliminating barriers to securing the nation’s electoral process,” said USCIS spokesman Matthew Tragesser. “By allowing states to efficiently verify voter eligibility, we are reinforcing the principle that America’s elections are reserved exclusively for American citizens.”

### Executive Order Implementation

The upgrade is part of USCIS’ ongoing implementation of Executive Order 14248, *Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections*. Under the new system, agencies responsible for verifying voter rolls can now create a SAVE case without requiring a Department of Homeland Security identifier or the full Social Security number, streamlining the verification process.

### Extensive Use and Adoption

SAVE has already seen widespread use across federal and state agencies. State voting agencies alone have submitted more than 46 million voter verification queries. Additionally, federal agencies have processed over 110 million queries to verify eligibility for federally funded benefits.

Altogether, as of October 2025, the SAVE system has handled more than 205 million verification queries—an eightfold increase compared to 25 million queries processed in all of 2024.

Currently, 26 states have either established agreements with SAVE for voter verification or are in the process of doing so. Government officials at all levels are being encouraged to adopt the system to help prevent voter fraud and restore public confidence in elections.

For more information, visit the [SAVE Voter Registration and Voter List Maintenance Fact Sheet](#).

*Voter Registration and Voter List Maintenance Fact Sheet*
https://newsindiatimes.com/states-can-now-verify-voter-citizenship-using-partial-social-security-numbers/

4Chan user checks out bunker his paranoid grandfather created, inside they find human remains and faces carved into the walls

**Disturbing Discovery in Grandfather’s Secret Bunker: A 4Chan Mystery**

In 2012, a chilling story surfaced on 4Chan, where an anonymous user shared a disturbing discovery about their recently deceased grandfather. Although the original post was deleted shortly after it was made, screenshots of the message and accompanying images have continued to circulate online. The eerie nature of the story has made it a popular subject for true crime YouTubers and creators who focus on unsolved internet mysteries. One such YouTuber, known as Coop, documented the case while including screenshots of the original post.

### The Grandfather’s Creepy Bunker

The original poster (OP) began by explaining that their last living grandparent, an 89-year-old grandfather, had passed away. The grandfather was said to be a World War II veteran who was deeply paranoid about the possibility of another war erupting at any moment. To prepare for what he believed was an inevitable apocalypse, the grandfather had built a secret bunker.

At one point, the OP recalls asking their grandfather about the bunker. The response was chilling — the grandfather warned them to stay away, labeling the bunker as “just a ____.” The OP couldn’t quite catch the last word but thought it sounded like “ah Sioux air,” leaving the exact meaning mysterious and unsettling.

### Exploring the Bunker

After the grandfather’s death, the OP decided to investigate the bunker, expecting to find typical survival supplies such as rations and tools for enduring a nuclear war. What they discovered, however, was far more disturbing.

Navigating through winding tunnels carved into rock, the OP came upon a large iron door secured with a padlock. The lock was rusted enough to be broken open, and inside, the atmosphere grew increasingly eerie.

Deeper within one room, the OP found a cross carved into the stone wall, surrounded by numerous faces also carved into the rock. Photos shared along with the post reveal these unsettling carvings, which add to the mystery’s haunting nature.

### A Gruesome Discovery

Things took a darker turn when the OP noticed what appeared to be a human bone beneath some debris on the floor. More bones seemed to emerge from the concrete itself. Adding to the terror, the OP claims to have heard laughter echoing through the tunnels before fleeing the bunker as quickly as possible.

### What Was the Bunker?

No updates from the original poster have surfaced since then. Speculation has run rampant online. Some suggest the bunker might have been used by the grandfather as a subterranean burial site for loved ones. Another 4Chan user proposed that the word the grandfather used to describe the bunker — which OP misheard as “ah Sioux air” — could have been “ossuary,” a term for a place where human bones are kept.

### Fact or Fiction?

This story remains an internet mystery, shrouded in uncertainty. How much of it is true, and how much might be fabricated? The fact that the OP deleted their post soon after sharing it raises questions. What would be the motivation for inventing such an elaborate lie only to remove it so quickly?

We may never know the full truth about the grandfather’s bunker or the origins of the disturbing tale. For now, it remains one of those eerie stories that continue to captivate and unsettle those fascinated by unsolved internet mysteries.
https://wegotthiscovered.com/fyi/4chan-user-checks-out-bunker-his-paranoid-grandfather-created-inside-they-find-human-remains-and-faces-carved-into-the-walls/

Salman Khan to play Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s right hand Jeeva Mahala in Riteish Deshmukh’s Raja Shivaji

Salman Khan Set to Play Jeeva Mahala in Riteish Deshmukh’s Historical Epic *Raja Shivaji*

Salman Khan is reportedly set to make a significant appearance in Riteish Deshmukh’s upcoming historical epic *Raja Shivaji*. The superstar will portray Jeeva Mahala, the courageous and loyal warrior who was one of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s most trusted aides. According to reports, Salman will shoot his sequence on November 7, and the scene is expected to be one of the film’s standout moments.

Every time Salman Khan appears on the big screen, he creates a unique aura. His prominent role in *Raja Shivaji* is a perfect choice, given the importance of Jeeva Mahala’s character in history. Salman has previously made cameo appearances in Riteish Deshmukh’s *Lai Bhaari* and the song “Ved Lavlay” from the film *Ved*, making this collaboration well established.

Jeeva Mahala played a crucial role in protecting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during the fierce attack by Sayyad Banda, the trusted lieutenant of Afzal Khan. This defining act of courage will be a major highlight in the film. With Salman Khan stepping into the role of Jeeva Mahala, and Sanjay Dutt portraying Afzal Khan, audiences can look forward to a grand and emotionally charged cinematic moment that honors timeless bravery, loyalty, and history.

On the professional front, Salman Khan’s lineup remains packed with high-octane commercial entertainers. His much-anticipated war drama, *Battle of Galwan*, has already generated significant buzz online since the release of its first look. Additionally, a reunion with director Kabir Khan, especially with *Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2*, could mark a shift towards the emotionally resonant storytelling that defined their earlier work together.

Stay tuned for more updates on Salman Khan’s exciting projects and Bollywood news.

*Also Read:*
**SCOOP:** *Battle Of Galwan* makers considering June 2026 release; shoot of Salman Khan-starrer wraps up in December
*BOLLYWOOD NEWS LIVE UPDATES*
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/salman-khan-play-chhatrapati-shivaji-maharajs-right-hand-jeeva-mahala-riteish-deshmukhs-raja-shivaji/

How to complete Greasing Her Palms in ARC Raiders

Some quests in **ARC Raiders** can be straightforward, while others, like *Greasing Her Palms*, may take a bit more time and effort to complete. This particular quest requires you to complete three objectives across three different maps, and none of the locations are explicitly marked. To help you out, we’ve gathered everything you need to know about completing *Greasing Her Palms*.

### How to Complete the *Greasing Her Palms* Quest in ARC Raiders

To finish *Greasing Her Palms*, you’ll need to visit three maps: the **Dam**, the **Buried City**, and the **Spaceport**. Each location requires you to go to a specific area, but the descriptions are quite vague. The trickiest task is to “scope out the rocket thrusters” on the Spaceport map, so let’s start there.

### Where to Find the Rocket Thrusters on Spaceport

The rocket thrusters you need to inspect are located about 150 meters southwest of the **Rocket Assembly** point of interest. These thrusters are the furthest ones from the Rocket Assembly building, situated closer to **Control Tower A6** and **Container Storage**.

Look for the southwesternmost thruster lying on its side within some large mechanical braces. If you approach from the east, you should see another derelict thruster behind you and the Control Tower A6 building to your right.

To complete this step, simply walk up and stay near this specific thruster for a few seconds. There’s no need to survive the raid—once you reach it alive, this part of the quest is complete.

### Where to Find the Locked Room in Water Treatment Control on Dam Battlegrounds

This step, along with the final objective, carries a higher PvP risk because **Water Treatment Control** is a central area often contested by players due to its valuable loot.

To find the locked room:

1. Enter the main level of Water Treatment (do **not** go onto the roof).
2. Head through the door located on the southern wall.
3. Continue down the hallway, eliminating any ARC enemies you encounter.
4. Use the **Dam Surveillance Key** to open the locked door at the end of the hall.

Make sure you bring the Dam Surveillance Key with you. Keep it in your Safe Pocket to avoid losing it if you die en route—losing this key means having to find another one in the wild, which can be time-consuming.

Opening this locked door completes the quest step. The loot inside is generous and includes rare item lockers, electronics spawns, and even a weapons case, so it’s well worth the risk.

### Where to Find the Barricaded Area on Floor 6 of the Space Travel Building on Buried City

This final step takes you to the **Space Travel Building** in the Buried City, a hotspot for high-value loot and intense PvP action. Be prepared and gear up for PvP before heading in.

One safer approach is to access the Space Travel Building via a platform connecting from the **Parking Garage** to the northeast. This route offers plenty of cover and escape options, allowing you to assess the activity level in the objective zone.

Once inside, head to the northwestern section of the building to find the stairs leading up to the sixth floor. Proceed east along the main hallway until you reach the barricaded door. Pass through this door, and the quest step will complete as soon as you cross the threshold.

### Turning in the Quest

After completing all three steps, return to **Celeste** at **Speranza** to turn in *Greasing Her Palms* and collect your reward.

By following this guide, you can navigate the ambiguous instructions of *Greasing Her Palms* with ease and claim the rewards without unnecessary frustration. Good luck out there, Raiders!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146649/how-to-complete-greasing-her-palms-in-arc-raiders

Family of Shah Bano SLAMS Haq makers for ‘distorting facts’, alleges invasion of privacy: “If the film is based only on the case, then…”

Jubair Ahmad Khan, grandson of Shah Bano Begum, has expressed strong objections to the upcoming film *Haq*, which is based on the landmark 1985 Supreme Court case Mohd Ahmed Khan vs Shah Bano Begum.

Speaking to ANI, Jubair alleged that the film was made without the consent of Shah Bano’s family and claimed that the teaser ‘distorts’ several facts, infringing on the family’s right to privacy.

### Family Slams *Haq* Makers for ‘Distorting Facts’

The family of Shah Bano has slammed the makers of *Haq*, accusing them of distorting facts and invading their privacy. Jubair stated, “If the film is based only on the case, then…” — implying discrepancies in the film’s portrayal.

Shah Bano, whose legal battle brought significant changes to maintenance laws for divorced Muslim women, remains a deeply personal figure for her family. Jubair criticized the filmmakers for allegedly commercializing the family’s private struggles without seeking permission.

“Anything that happens affects us as a family. They didn’t ask us anything,” he said.

### Allegations of Distortion and Privacy Invasion

Jubair pointed out discrepancies in the teaser, adding, “A lot of facts in the teaser are distorted. It is our private matter that has been given a commercial angle. Common people watching the movie will think it shows true events, but it does not.”

In response to a legal petition filed by his mother, Siddiqua Begum Khan, seeking a stay on the release of *Haq*, the film’s producer’s lawyer Ajay Bagadiya said that the film includes a disclaimer clarifying it is inspired by the Supreme Court judgment and a book titled *Bano, Bharat ki Beti*.

Bagadiya emphasized that the film is a fictionalized portrayal and is not obliged to present events factually. He also questioned the legitimacy of the petitioner’s claim of being Shah Bano’s daughter, stating that there is no confirmation.

### Family Challenges the Film’s Portrayal

Jubair contested the producer’s defense, highlighting that the teaser conflicts with the stated basis of the film. He noted that while the book focuses on the Supreme Court case, the film includes broader aspects of Shah Bano’s life not covered by the case law.

“If the film is based only on the case, then it should show the court proceedings. But in the teaser and trailer, you can see it is completely different from the true event,” he explained.

Previously, the family issued a legal notice urging the filmmakers to halt all publication, screening, promotion, and release activities for *Haq*. They accused the makers of unauthorized use of personal life details.

### About the Film *Haq*

*Haq*, set to release on November 7, 2025, stars Emraan Hashmi and Yami Gautam. The film is directed by Suparn S. Verma and produced under the banner of Junglee Pictures.

Yami Gautam Dhar has previously commented on the film, stating, “It is not a biopic, but it is inspired by the powerful journey of Shah Bano.”

**Also Read:**
– Yami Gautam Dhar on *Haq*: “It is not a biopic, but it is inspired by the powerful journey of Shah Bano”
– *Haq* Box Office Collection
– Bollywood News Live Updates
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/family-shah-bano-slams-haq-makers-distorting-facts-alleges-invasion-privacy-film-based-case/

ShackStream: Super Mario Galaxy 2 on The Stevetendo Show! Episode 642

Tonight on The Stevetendo Show, we’re jumping back into the vastness of space for *Super Mario Galaxy 2*. I hope everyone had a nice Halloween and didn’t get scared too much!

During our last *Super Mario Galaxy 2* playthrough, we boarded the spaceship that looked like a giant Mario head, primed for adventure. We grabbed all the stars we could in the first world and secured the first Grand Star.

For those who aren’t familiar, Grand Stars are earned by defeating bosses at the end of each world. These Grand Stars unlock the path to the next world and help advance the story. Our first boss encounter was Gobblegut—a bit of a challenge—but we managed to defeat him and move forward. Only time will tell if this playthrough will be a 100% run or not!

Set to go live at 6 p.m. PDT / 9 p.m. EDT, join The Stevetendo Show tonight for more *Super Mario Galaxy 2* gameplay. Shackers who want to join the fun can head over to the Shacknews Twitch channel, where The Stevetendo Show streams every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

If you can’t make tonight’s show, don’t worry—you can catch Tuesday and Wednesday nights at 5 p.m. PDT / 8 p.m. EDT.

We’ve just finished *Donkey Kong Bananza* last week, so stay tuned for the brand-new playthrough kicking off on the show soon. Also, *Pokémon Legends Z-A* will be holding down the fort on Wednesday nights. The action is heating up, and you won’t want to miss it!

Be sure to check out the Shacknews Twitch channel as well as the Shacknews VODs YouTube channel. Catch up on some of your favorite Shacknews programs by subscribing to the YouTube channel and following the Twitch channel.

In other news, Shacknews recently launched a new service called Shackmaps. The dedicated Shacknews staff has curated detailed maps for some of your favorite video games to keep you from getting lost. Be sure to check it out!

By the way, I hope everyone had a fun and safe Halloween last week without causing too much mischief. Swing by The Stevetendo Show this evening, and I’ll share what my favorite candy is. I can’t believe this never came up before Halloween—but here we are!

Also, October 31 marked the first anniversary of the Nintendo Music app. As you know, I love video game music, and I’ve been getting a lot out of this app. I’ll be sharing some of my favorite video game music tunes as well.

Keep sending in your suggestions for new games you’d love to see on The Stevetendo Show. If it’s on the Nintendo Switch 2 or the Nintendo Switch 2 Online service, it could have a starring role in an upcoming episode. You never know when Nintendo will add something new, so stay tuned!

See you tonight!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146646/shackstream-super-mario-galaxy-2-on-the-stevetendo-show-episode-642

SHOCK VIDEO: Rome Medieval Tower Partially Collapses During Renovation Works – Rescuers Frantically Trying to Save Worker Who Remains Trapped Under the Rubble

Shock and drama unfolded today as a worker remained trapped under the partially collapsed Torre dei Conti in the heart of Rome. The medieval tower, located near the world-famous Colosseum ruins, suffered structural collapse during ongoing renovation work.

One worker was critically injured, while another became trapped beneath the rubble, prompting a dramatic and complex rescue operation.

The Torre dei Conti, built in the 13th century by Pope Innocent III as a residence for his family, has a long and troubled history. It was previously damaged in a 1349 earthquake and endured subsequent collapses in the 17th century.

Firefighters have been working non-stop to rescue the trapped worker, who has now been beneath the rubble for several hours. According to the Associated Press, rescuers faced significant difficulties as the unstable structure continued to shift. Efforts to reach the worker through a first-floor window were repeatedly forced to retreat due to falling debris and a cloud of smoke.

Attempts to access the worker via two ladders were also aborted, leading the team to deploy a drone to assess the situation safely. As dusk approached, firefighters used a crane and giant suction tubes to remove rubble from the tower’s second-floor window in hopes of reaching the trapped individual.

Earlier in the rescue operation, three workers were successfully rescued unharmed, while one remains hospitalized in critical condition.

Rome’s top law enforcement official, Prefect Lamberto Giannini, provided an update on the situation: “There are signs of life from the trapped worker. Firefighters managed to provide some protective cover during an earlier rescue attempt.” He described the operation as “very complex,” noting that additional equipment was being brought in.

Giannini emphasized the difficulty and risks involved: “It will be a very long operation. We must try to save this person while mitigating the enormous risks to the people who are trying to save him.”

The rescue mission continues, with hope that the trapped operator under the rubble of the Torre dei Conti will be safely recovered.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/11/shock-video-rome-medieval-tower-partially-collapses-during/

Neglected kitten ignored during rain storm by owners, neighbor rescues her from the cold and considers adopting her furrever: ‘My heart breaks at the thought of that sweet little baby outside in the cold and the rain 24/7’

Cats are incredibly adaptive animals. They truly seem to have nine lives, and their nimble athleticism helps them handle almost any situation they find themselves in.

That being said, there are obvious signs when an animal is being neglected. Sometimes, when you see a parent mistreating their child, you might wonder, “Why did they even have kids?” But what can be even more confusing is witnessing someone treat their pet poorly.

Owning a cat comes with a basic level of responsibility. If an owner isn’t prepared to handle the tasks involved—such as keeping the cat indoors for its safety—then they shouldn’t get a pet at all.

Take the story below as a public service announcement against animal neglect. The protagonist is a woman who has neighbors that own several cats. They adopted a few cats, but all of them live entirely outdoors. This already raises the question: why did they adopt these cats in the first place?

After seeing one of their new kittens left outside in the rain, she decided to take the kitten in and care for it herself.
https://cheezburger.com/43054085/neglected-kitten-ignored-during-rain-storm-by-owners-neighbor-rescues-her-from-the-cold-and

‘Battling Between Good and Evil’: Ex-Wife of DMX on Marriage, Struggles, and the Day She Met Jesus

Tashera Draughn met Earl Simmons when she was just 11 years old. She dated him for 10 years before marrying the man who would later gain fame as rapper DMX.

During a recent conversation with CBN, Tashera shared about her marriage to the hip hop legend.

“This was always his dream. He knew that he was gifted with his talent, which I didn’t really see it for what it was until it actually, really happened. But he said, ‘This is how we going to make it out the hood,’” Tashera said.

She recalled how married life started off easily, then turned into a nightmare after DMX’s meteoric rise in the music world.

“In an industry where it is the devil’s playground, where morals and values are out the window, I watched my best friend gain the world,” she explained.

It is widely known that DMX struggled with drug addiction, which led to legal battles and multiple stints behind bars. Later in his career, the Grammy-nominated rapper, who often spoke about God, began to incorporate his love for God into his lyrics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, DMX used social media to lead thousands in a Bible study and pray for salvation.

> MORE: Remembering Rapper DMX and His Pandemic Bible Study, Asking Followers to Receive Jesus

“He’s the one who introduced me to Christ,” Tashera explained. “I knew that he knew he was being used for Christ. But I saw the constant fight he was battling. He was battling between good and evil.”

That evil included the pain of marital infidelity and abuse.

“To be totally transparent, I was lost,” said Tashera. “I lost myself. I lost my soul in that marriage. If it wasn’t for my oldest son saying that one day, he said, ‘If the next time I see my father and hear him abusing you verbally, I’m going to kill him.’”

Those words from 14-year-old Xavier served as a wake-up call for Tashera to take her family and leave.

“I saw the look in his eyes and I realized that if you’re not going to do it for yourself, Shera, you have to do it for your children,” Tashera said.

In 2025, while separated from her husband, Tashera, who grew up a Muslim, said she experienced a spiritual encounter that set her on a new path.

“I didn’t know Jesus the way I should have, so I was in the closet,” she explained. “Things were going really bad. It was going really left, and I cried the hardest cry. I mean, it was from my soul. It was from my spirit. I did not know what else to do. I felt warmth, a peace that I’ve never ever experienced before. And at the time, it was scary. But when I had to replay it, it was Jesus because I was crying out, ‘If You were real, You would come see me. You would show me Your love. This is not what You say You’re about.’ And that’s what I was saying in that moment, and then He came.”

***Please sign up for CBN Newsletters and download the CBN News app to ensure you keep receiving the latest news from a distinctly Christian perspective.***

The experience is just one of many Tashera shares in her latest book, *Dying to Self*, which outlines her transformative journey.

“The industry that I was birthed in is the devil’s playground, and there’s so many women and men out there that they think they know, but they have no idea. And I felt like it was time. I owed it to Jesus to let the world know that, had it not been for Him on my side, I don’t know where I would be,” Tashera said.

In 2014, Tashera and Earl divorced, and on April 9, 2021, at the age of 50, DMX died after suffering a heart attack. At his funeral, Tashera shared about the love God had for Earl and his sincere desire to serve Christ.

Today, Tashera is on a mission to share the healing and hope she has found.

“Jesus Christ is love. I mean, that’s the only way I could really fully say it, because I didn’t know what love was until I found His love, His unconditional love, the love that when I mess up, when I make mistakes, when I get distracted, He’s still sitting there.”

It is a love that has made a strong impact on Tashera and Earl’s children, who experienced their own challenges growing up in the home of the late rapper. Her youngest son Sean was recently baptized after committing his life to Christ.

“Our Godly Father has picked them up and turned their lives around. And they don’t have depression anymore. They don’t cut anymore. They don’t feel abandoned anymore because of the love of Jesus Christ.”
http://www.cbn.com/api/urlredirect.aspx?u=http://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/entertainment/2025/november/battling-between-good-and-evil-ex-wife-of-dmx-on-marriage-struggles-and-the-day-she-met-jesus