About Author
Fleme has spent over 15 years writing, editing and figuring out what makes a story work. Her career has spanned news, features and subjects ranging from cars and travel to politics and entertainment, before moving into editorial leadership. Now an Editorial Lead, she focuses on content strategy, audience behavior and improving how stories are developed, while working with writers and editors to strengthen their judgment and understand the thinking behind editorial decisions.
Latest From Fleme Varkey
Karoline Leavitt through the years: From intern to the youngest press secretary in history and back to mom
Karoline Leavitt walked into the White House at 22 years old as an intern. She left it at 28 as the youngest press secretary in American history and a mother of two. Here's tracing her journey, from her historic appointment to motherhood to her exit.
Heat, honor and high stakes: Trump addresses Coast Guard Academy graduating class of 2026
President Donald Trump addressed graduates at the US Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, on Wednesday, May 20, praising their service while cautioning that their military careers would bring greater challenges ahead. The ceremony proceeded under intense heat and limited shade, conditions that affected attendees but did not disrupt the formal proceedings or graduation celebrations.
JD Vance salutes fallen officers in powerful National Police Week images
Vice President JD Vance joined law enforcement officers and grieving families at the 45th Annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service in Washington, DC, on May 15, honoring officers killed in the line of duty. The powerful images captured moments of patriotism and remembrance during National Police Week. During his remarks, Vance also defended the Trump administration’s policing policies, criticizing previous federal oversight of police departments and saying the administration had “stopped handcuffing the police and started handcuffing more violent criminals.”
Tom Morello rallies protesters at anti-ICE march as ‘Hands Off’ signs flood NYC streets
Rage Against the Machine's Tom Morello brought protest music and fiery anti-Trump rhetoric to the streets of New York as demonstrators gathered outside 26 Federal Plaza for a massive anti-ICE rally on May 12. From crowds waving 'Hands Off NYC' signs to Morello performing with his guitar in the middle of protesters, the demonstration blended political resistance and celebrity activism in one striking event.
Obama turns on the charm for voters during Texas campaign stop with James Talarico
Barack Obama brought charisma, warmth and star power to the Texas campaign trail as he joined James Talarico for a series of candid interactions with voters in Austin, Texas, on May 12. From laughing with supporters to holding a child and greeting diners, the former president’s presence seemed to resonate with the public years after leaving office.
Trump unveils UFC ‘Freedom 250’ belt as Ilia Topuria says: ‘I never thought you would be so kind’
Trump welcomed UFC stars Ilia Topuria, Justin Gaethje, Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane to the Oval Office on May 6 to unveil a special “Freedom 250” UFC championship belt ahead of the June 14 White House fight card in Washington, DC. The visit, held one month before the historic UFC White House event, featured fighter face-offs, playful exchanges with Trump and the reveal of an event-exclusive belt honoring America’s upcoming 250th Independence Day celebrations.
Melania Trump stuns in soft butter-yellow suit during royal White House visit
Melania Trump stepped out in a butter-yellow designer suit during King Charles and Queen Camilla’s White House visit. The polished look marked a softer shift from her previous royal style.
Inside the 24th Annual Vital Voices Awards: Hillary Clinton, Iman and more attend
The 24th Annual Global Leadership Awards at PAC NYC on April 23, brought together global leaders, philanthropists and changemakers to celebrate women driving impact worldwide. The event spotlighted extraordinary achievements across industries, honoring those advancing progress on a global scale. Hillary Clinton made a special appearance, highlighting her long-standing role in championing women’s leadership through Vital Voices.
First Lady’s Luncheon: Melania Trump stuns in tailored ivory suit
Melania Trump held the 113th First Lady’s Luncheon, a gathering of high-profile guests and an annual formal White House tradition. Second lady Usha Vance, also in attendance, introduced Trump. Scroll through the photos to see the highlights from the event.
Bill and Hillary Clinton cheer daughter Chelsea at Boston Marathon in rare appearance
Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton made a rare joint appearance at the Boston Marathon, stepping out to support their daughter Chelsea Clinton. The outing offered a warm, candid glimpse of the family in a feel-good moment far removed from politics.
Joe Rogan joins Trump at Oval Office as he signs order to fast track review of psychedelics
Podcaster Joe Rogan is seen with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office on April 18, 2026, as he signed an executive order to accelerate research into psychedelic treatments for mental health disorders.
Meghan Markle’s Australia style diary: Aussie labels, Dior heels and chic neutrals
Every stop brought a fresh style statement as Meghan Markle blended understated elegance with thoughtful local touches. Most notably, her wardrobe put a spotlight on Australian labels that often fly under the mainstream fashion radar. Here’s what she wore.
Read: Full transcript of Trump's address to the nation
Trump urged countries dependent on Middle Eastern oil to try and secure the Strait of Hormuz, saying they should 'grab it and cherish it'
Read: Full transcript of Trump's '60 Minutes’ interview with Norah O'Donnell
CBS host Norah O’Donnell told viewers of the Paramount settlement with Trump but noted that it 'did not include an apology or an admission of wrongdoing'
Read: Tyler Robinson's full text exchange with trans roommate after shooting Charlie Kirk
Tyler Robinson's messaged his roommate to tell him it 'shouldn't be long until I can come home'
Taylor Swift news diary: Travis Kelce proclaims his love for singer with 'heart' gesture during Chiefs v Bills game
Travis Kelce's heart gesture was directed toward his girlfriend Taylor Swift's suite, where Swift and Kelce's family were seated