(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — U.S. President Joe Biden said Friday that he is “convinced” Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to invade Ukraine, including an assault on the capital, as tensions spiked along the militarized border with attacks that the West called “false-flag” operations meant to establish a pretext for invasion...
Judge rejects effort by Trump to toss Jan. 6 lawsuits
A federal judge has rejected efforts by former President Donald Trump to toss out lawsuits filed by lawmakers and two Capitol Police officers that claim his actions led to the riot on Jan. 6, 2021
apnews.com
Ottawa crackdown: police arrest 100 after 3-week protest
Police in Canada say they have made more than 100 arrests and progress in clearing out truckers who have paralyzed Ottawa for three weeks in a protest against the country’s COVID-19 restrictions.
apnews.com
Kim Potter sentenced to 2 years in Daunte Wright's death
Kim Potter, the former suburban Minneapolis police officer who said she confused her handgun for her Taser when she fatally shot Daunte Wright, has been sentenced to two years in prison.
apnews.com
National Archives: Trump took classified items to Mar-a-Lago
Classified information has been found in the 15 boxes of White House records that were stored at former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence.
apnews.com
At least 9 more deaths as 2nd major storm hits north Europe
The second major storm in three days has smashed through northern Europe, killing at least nine people as high winds felled trees, cancelled train services and ripped sections off the roof of London’s O2 Arena
Russia-Ukraine live updates: EU takes bold steps to aid Ukraine forces
Live updates on the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
DOJ reveals new Signal messages from Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes as judge rules he will remain in jail | CNN Politics
Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes will be held in jail while he awaits trial, a federal judge in Washington, DC, ruled on Friday after prosecutors revealed new Signal app messages where Rhodes allegedly called January 6 “the final nail in the coffin of our republic” and instructed his followers...
www.cnn.com
Biden signs stopgap spending bill averting shutdown
President Joe Biden has signed a bill granting a three-week extension of government funding and allowing Congress more time to reach an overdue deal financing federal agencies through the rest of the fiscal year.
apnews.com
Ukraine-Russia crisis: What to know as the tension grinds on
Spiking tensions in eastern Ukraine are heightening Western fears of a Russian invasion and a new war in Europe. U.S
apnews.com
At least 9 more deaths as 2nd major storm hits north Europe
The second major storm in three days has smashed through northern Europe, killing at least nine people as high winds felled trees, cancelled train services and ripped sections off the roof of London’s O2 Arena.
apnews.com
Biden says 'we are prepared to respond' if Russia launches cyberattack against US
U.S. cybersecurity experts say a response may include a range of options, including launching top-secret cyberweapons against Russian targets.
www.usatoday.com
Mayorkas describes 'tough trip' to the border after tense encounter with Border Patrol
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas described a recent "tough trip" to the U.S. southern border that included tense encounters with Border Patrol agents, some of whom he accused of acting "unprofessionally."
California bill would have citizens enforce weapons ban
A California bill would allow private citizens to go after gun makers in the same way Texas allows them to sue abortion providers. Democratic Gov.
apnews.com
Rand Paul says Ukraine joining NATO is a 'dumb idea', that would provoke 'pariah nation' of Russia
FIRST ON FOX: Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., doubled down on his opposition to Ukraine joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), saying it would be an extremely provocative action toward the "pariah nation" of Russia.
Afghanistan hovers over Biden's strategy on Ukraine
Analysis: There are signs the White House is embracing lessons learned, not just from Afghanistan but also from 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea, experts say.
www.nbcnews.com
Five questions ahead of Trump’s social media launch
Former President Trump’s new social media platform is expected to be released to the public on Monday. There are still many unknowns about how Truth Social will work and whether it will succes…
thehill.com
National Archives confirms some documents retrieved from Mar-a-Lago were classified
The National Archives confirmed Friday that some of the Trump White House documents recently recovered from Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort were marked classified.
Senate confirms health care watchdog assailed by Trump
The Senate has confirmed a federal watchdog assailed by former President Donald Trump to the top job battling fraud, waste and abuse at the $1.6 trillion Department of Health and Human Services.
apnews.com
Canada protests: Police push back demonstrators in Ottawa
Police have said they have 170 arrests over the past two days of operations in Canada's capital.
www.bbc.com
Stefanik joins McCarthy in endorsing Cheney's Republican primary challenger
FIRST ON FOX: House Republican Conference chair Elise Stefanik of New York endorsed Wyoming Republican Rep. Liz Cheney's primary opponent, Harriet Hageman.
Biden says Putin has already 'made the decision' to attack Ukraine
“It is not too late to de-escalate and return to the negotiating table,” the president said of Russia in Friday remarks on a situation he termed a "rapidly escalating crisis."
www.nbcnews.com
Republican senators call on Garland to protect Durham investigation
Republican senators are asking Attorney General Merrick Garland to allow John Durham to continue his investigation after the special counsel put forward allegations that information was mined at Trump properties and the White House and used to weave a phony Trump-Russia collusion narrative.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Supreme Court agrees to weigh in on legal fight over the "Remain in Mexico" border policy
President Biden has denounced the Trump-era border policy as draconian and inhumane.
www.cbsnews.com
Judge says Trump could be culpable for January 6 and says lawsuits against the former President can proceed | CNN Politics
Civil lawsuits seeking to hold Donald Trump accountable for the January 6, 2021, insurrection can move forward in court, a federal judge said Friday in a ruling outlining how the former President could conceivably be responsible for inciting the attack on the US Capitol.
www.cnn.com
Capitol Police ups security ahead of SOTU amid concerns of truck convoy protesting
Capitol Police issued a statement on Friday saying they are planning for extra security ahead of President Biden’s first State of the Union address, noting that law enforcement agencies “are …
thehill.comTrump Directed $375,000 In Donations To His Own Building To Rent An Unused Office
"It’s a huge scam," said a former aide, and the total exceeds what Trump donated to Republican candidates – the supposed purpose behind his committees.
Thousands of mail ballots face possible rejection in Texas during early voting
A substantial percentage of these ballots are being flagged because of their failure to comply with the state's new election law.
www.cbsnews.com
NATO allies concerned by Zelensky move to leave Ukraine, threat of Russian invasion almost certain
NATO allies, including White House officials, are concerned by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decision to depart Kyiv for the Munich Security Conference this weekend, sources told Fox News Friday.
Afghanistan's Taliban detain Brits, American; reason unclear
The U.S. and British governments, as well as a family member, say Afghanistan's Taliban rulers have detained several British citizens and an American.
apnews.com
Violent attack sabotages Canadian natural gas pipeline
A masked mob of ax-wielding vandals attacked a natural gas pipeline project in British Columbia, smashing vehicles and firing flare guns at workers after cutting fuel lines on Thursday.
www.washingtonexaminer.comGOP lawmakers are pushing high-tech 'fraud-proof' ballots. A Texas company could be the only supplier.
Holographic foil. Special ink designed to be sensitive to temperature changes. Nearly invisible "stealth numbers" that can be located only using special ultraviolet or infrared lights. Those are among the high-tech security features that would be required to be embedded on ballots under measures...
Federal judge rejects Trump effort to toss Jan. 6 lawsuits
The lawsuits were filed by members of Congress and two police officers. They accuse Trump and others of violating federal civil rights and local incitement laws.
www.nbcnews.com
The Ukraine conflict is moving fast. Here's what to watch for
Tensions in Ukraine are escalating. The country's eastern Donbas region -- where fighting between pro-Russian separatists and Ukranian forces have simmered since 2015 -- experienced its worst shelling in years this week.
White House’s latest challenge is sour public mood
A Biden White House struggling to find any sort of political momentum is facing a stern challenge in trying to shift the sour mood of a public fatigued by the two-year pandemic, annoyed with rising…
thehill.com
Supreme Court to hear Biden admin's appeal to end Trump-era ‘Remain-in-Mexico’ policy
The Supreme Court will hear the Biden administration’s appeal in its efforts to end the "Remain-in-Mexico" policy -- a key Trump-era border policy that the Biden administration abolished, but was then forced to re-establish under court order.
Border Patrol agents warned of assassination attempts by Mexican cartels
AUSTIN, Texas — The Border Patrol issued an internal warning to agents stationed in South Texas that they may be the targets of assassination attempts by Mexican cartel members.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Massive police operation begins to reclaim Ottawa
House cancels sitting where MPs were scheduled to debate use of emergency powers against blockades.
www.politico.comOregon, California seek to protect election workers from threats
Lawmakers in Oregon and California are calling for tougher legislation to protect election workers in response to a continuing wave of threats and harassment inspired by former President Donald Trump's false claims that the 2020 vote was rigged against him. In Oregon, legislators are...
Jittery week: Wall Street falls as investors eye Ukraine crisis
Traders also took risk off the table ahead of a United States holiday on Monday.
Whisper campaigns grow as Biden nears choice for high court
The whispers and chatter about top contenders for the Supreme Court are growing as President Joe Biden zeroes in on a nominee to replace retiring Justice Stephen Breyer.
apnews.com
NYC mayor announces plan to bar homeless people from sheltering in subway
New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) announced a plan on Friday to keep homeless people from sheltering and sleeping in the subway system.Adams, who previously said he felt “unsafe” …
thehill.comMeet Alina Habba, the New Jersey parking garage lawyer now handling Donald Trump's most personal lawsuits
Former President Donald Trump hired Alina Habba to handle sexual assault accusations. Now he's using her to sue the New York Attorney General.
Oath Keepers leader to stay jailed until Capitol riot trial
A federal judge has refused to free Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes from jail while he awaits trial on charges that he plotted with other members of his far-right militia group to attack the U.S.
apnews.com
Baby formula supply issues send parents scrambling
Formula shortages have been growing since November.
www.nbcnews.com
Kim Potter, who killed Daunte Wright, sentenced to 24 months, fine on manslaughter convictions
Former officer Kim Potter, who killed Daunte Wright, sentenced on manslaughter convictions.
White House says 'door to diplomacy' remains open amid Russian invasion fears
With a Russian invasion of Ukraine seeming more likely by the hour, the White House insisted Friday that the door to diplomacy remains open.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Senate confirms health care watchdog assailed by Trump
The Senate has confirmed a federal watchdog assailed by former President Donald Trump to the top job battling fraud, waste and abuse at the $1.6 trillion Department of Health and Human Services
Pence says he believes RNC’s clarification of ‘legitimate political discourse,’ calls Jan. 6 a ‘tragic day’
Former Vice President Mike Pence said that he believed the Republican National Committee’s (RNC) clarification for the use of the term “legitimate political discourse” in their resolution…
thehill.com
US officials prep big banks and utilities for potential Russian cyberattacks as Ukraine crisis deepens | CNN Politics
Officials from multiple US agencies met Thursday with executives from big US banks to discuss how they might respond to Russian hacking threats as US officials warn that Russia could invade Ukraine at any time, five people briefed on the meeting told CNN.
www.cnn.com
Democrats, Republicans nearing compromise on New Jersey legislative district map
By late Thursday night, the two sides had largely finished the map and were waiting for Carchman to review it.
www.politico.com
Brazil: Climate change, neglect contribute to deadly mudslides
Little done in response to repeated warnings of risks of mountainside construction, researchers and public servants say.
This map shows some of the invasion routes Russia might take if it launches a major attack on Ukraine
President Joe Biden has said there is a "very high" risk Russia will invade Ukraine in the next few days. He believes they will target Kyiv.
'He's made the decision': Biden warns of likely Russian invasion of Ukraine
President Joe Biden foreshadowed likely Russian military action against the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, confirming his belief that Vladimir Putin has made up his mind.
www.washingtonexaminer.comWhat does it mean to ‘plead the fifth’ – and will Donald Trump do it?
The ex-president has been ordered to testify in a New York fraud case. Will he invoke his constitutional right to remain silent? Donald Trump. Invoking your right not to answer a question in a criminal case says nothing about your guilt, and no inference may be drawn from it. Photograph: Reuters...
White House responds to police officer sentencing in Daunte Wright shooting
After a judge sentenced former Minnesota police officer Kim Potter to two years in prison for the shooting of 20-year-old Daunte Wright, the White House said America has progress to make when it comes to criminal justice.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Opinion | Negotiating With Iran Isn't Working, But Biden Has a Better Option
Nuclear diplomacy with Iran has reached a dead end. It’s time for Biden to draw some red lines and commit to military force if needed.
www.politico.com
Russian-backed separatists to evacuate civilians from eastern Ukraine, stoking invasion fears
The move comes amid a spike in shelling in the area, with tensions rising once again after the West disputed Moscow’s claims of a troop pullback.
www.nbcnews.com
Progressive challengers and an FBI raid raise obstacles to Texas Democrat's reelection bid
The congressional rematch between moderate incumbent Henry Cuellar and progressive challenger Jessica Cisneros is the first noteworthy House primary of the year.
www.cbsnews.com
Erika Jayne accused of 'aiding and abetting' Tom Girardi in $2.1 million lawsuit
The "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star was named in a lawsuit claiming her involvement in her estranged husband's alleged embezzlement "scheme."
www.nbcnews.com
Prosecution, defense rest cases in Arbery hate crimes trial
The prosecution and defense rested their cases on Friday in the hate crimes trial for three white Georgia men who have already been convicted of murdering Ahmaud Arbery as the young Black man jogged through their neighborhood.
Melania Trump slams ‘dream killers’ in the media after reports on Florida charity probe
Former first lady Melania Trump blasted “dream killers” in the media following reporting on an investigation launched by Florida officials into a fundraiser of hers.Tickets for a charitab…
thehill.comThousands of Texas ballots rejected as new voter ID law causes confusion
Thousands of Texas voters' mail-in ballots for midterm primary elections have been rejected for failing to comply with new Republican-backed identification requirements passed in the wake of former President Donald Trump's false claims of widespread fraud, county officials said. Election...
Judge rejects Trump's request to dismiss Jan. 6 lawsuits
Former President Donald Trump’s effort to dismiss lawsuits placing legal responsibility on him related to the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol has been rejected by a federal judge.
READ: Judge's ruling that civil suits against Trump for January 6 can go forward | CNN Politics
A federal judge ruled Friday that civil lawsuits seeking to hold Donald Trump accountable for the January 6 insurrection can move forward in court, and the ex-President doesn’t have absolute immunity from litigation.
www.cnn.com
Trump can be sued for role in January 6 attack on Capitol, federal judge rules
The judge also threw out legal claims against Donald Trump Jr. and former Trump personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani.
www.cbsnews.com
US, Britain accuse Russia of cyberattacks targeting Ukraine
The White House has accused Russia of being responsible for cyberattacks targeting Ukraine’s defense ministry and major banks.
apnews.com
Hot-button abortion issue latest battle in Ohio GOP Senate primary as Vance, Gibbons trade barbs
Abortion is the latest battleground in Ohio Senate GOP primary to replace retiring Sen. Rob Portman.
VP Harris heralds NATO unity as Ukraine crisis grows
Vice President Kamala Harris has heralded NATO unity during the escalating Ukraine crisis and warned Russia that the U.S. and Western allies stood ready to respond with tough sanctions if President Vladimir Putin moves forward with an invasion of Ukraine.
apnews.com
WATCH: Trucker confronts police as Ottawa on knife's edge over COVID-19 protests
Truckers attempted to confront a line of police officers in Ottawa amid citywide tension between the "Freedom Convoy" and local officials.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Biden administration urged Zelensky not to leave Ukraine and visit Munich | CNN Politics
Biden administration officials have privately urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky not to leave Ukraine and visit Munich on Saturday given concerns about a possible incursion from Russia, according to three US officials and one senior Ukrainian official.
www.cnn.com
After subway attacks, New York to increase patrols, expand outreach to mentally ill
New York will seek to make the city's subway system safer by increasing police patrols and expanding outreach to the mentally ill, Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams said on Friday, responding to a series of recent attacks on passengers.
Chicago denies permit for scrapyard at heart of 'environmental injustice' battle
General Iron had been in a wealthy, majority white neighborhood on the city's North Side. An attempt to reopen operations in a mostly Latino area mobilized residents.
www.nbcnews.com
‘Elephant in the room’: Jordanian women and equal rights
Recognition of ‘Jordanian women’ in the constitution ignited a brawl in parliament and debate over their status.
Some auto industry experts predict an end to the days of bargain deals
AutoNation analysts argue manufacturers and dealers have adjusted to low inventories, which could lead them to keep supplies low.
www.nbcnews.comGovernors' races in 'blue wall' states carry high stakes for voting rights
Democrats are in jeopardy of losing their long-time firewall against new voting restrictions in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin should Republicans who support such curbs win competitive governors' races in those states in November. Republican victories in the three states could have...
As LGBTQ+ population grows, political representation tanks
“Equitable representation cannot simply be an aspiration, it must be a reality. Our rights depend on it,” Anise Parker, president and CEO of the LGBTQ Victory Institute, said Friday.
thehill.com
State Department calls evacuations in Eastern Ukraine 'false flag operations,' warns of distractions
The State Department on Friday condemned evacuation calls by the Russia-backed separatist groups in Eastern Ukraine as "false flag operations" that security officials have been warning against.
Stocks fall again, handing Wall Street another losing week
Stocks are closing lower on Wall Street Friday, leaving indexes with a second weekly loss in a row after another bout of turbulence shook markets
Ferry fire: Eleven missing as hundreds rescued off Corfu
Greek and Italian boats rush to rescue 290 people from a ferry but not everyone is accounted for.
www.bbc.com
Five officials at Texas Christian school arrested for failing to report alleged locker room sexual assault
Two coaches and three administrators were arrested Wednesday and charged with failure to report with intent to conceal neglect or abuse.
www.nbcnews.com
US officials say Russia has list of senior Ukrainian officials it would remove if it invades | CNN Politics
Multiple US and western government officials tell CNN that the US has intelligence that Russia has drawn up lists of current political figures that it would target for removal in the event it invades Ukraine and topples the current government in Kyiv.
www.cnn.com
Transgender swimmer Lia Thomas sets record in Ivy League's 500-yard freestyle
Lia Thomas, a transgender swimmer for the University of Pennsylvania, is continuing to dominate women's swimming competitions, this time by breaking a record in the 500-yard freestyle at the Ivy League's championship event.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Maryland couple plead guilty in nuclear secrets plot
The wife acted as lookout while her husband hid a data card inside a peanut butter sandwich.
www.bbc.com
Why some North Korean defectors return to one of the world's most repressive regimes | CNN
He risked his life fleeing from one of the world’s most repressive regimes, traversing a militarized stretch protected by barbed wire fences. Then a year later, he went back – the way he came.
www.cnn.com
Texas Republican congressional candidate Morgan Luttrell lands $600K ad buy, support from top GOP super PAC
EXCLUSIVE: Decorated Navy SEAL, former Trump administration official, and Republican Texas congressional candidate Morgan Luttrell landed support from a key super PAC backing GOP candidates—with a six-figure ad buy in the state highlighting his life of service and how he will “fight to protect”...
Legal experts question fairness of 2-year sentence for ex-cop who killed Daunte Wright
The light prison sentence issued to former Minnesota Police Officer Kim Potter, a white woman, for killing Wright, a 20-year-old Black motorist, surprised some legal observers.
www.nbcnews.com
Biden faces test of dedication to Ukraine — and democracy
For much of his political career, Joe Biden has watched democracy expand in Europe. Now that he's president, it could be rolled back in dramatic fashion if Russia decides to launch a new, expanded invasion of Ukraine.
apnews.com
Sen. Lankford demands DOD IG audit after Navy chaplain denied religious exemption to COVID-19 vaccine
Lankford will be sending a letter to Sean O’Donnell, the acting DOD inspector general, requesting the audit amid reports of a Navy chaplain and other sailors being denied a religious exemption.
Congress eyes more financial disclosure for federal judges
Federal judges would have to publicly disclose more information about their own finances under a bill approved by the Senate this week. The bipartisan bill by Sens.
apnews.com
Paris transport strike disrupts subway, trains to suburbs
Commuters in Paris are facing disruptions as public transport workers hold a one-day strike to protest what they say is an insufficient salary increase proposal by the state-owned transport company RATP amid rising inflation
Report details collapse of China Initiative case
Prosecutors’ interview with a Energy Department official led to the dismissal of charges against MIT professor Gang Chen.
www.politico.com
‘Big Research’ splits over R&D packages
Also: Some groups representing people of color — and backed by tech money — are resisting Capitol Hill’s antitrust push.
www.politico.com
Triple threat: California man arrested three times in 16 hours
He's once, twice, three times a detainee.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
US: Up to 190,000 Russian troops now along Ukraine border
The U.S. envoy to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) on Friday detailed reports that up to 190,000 Russian troops are now along the Ukrainian border.Ambassador Michael …
thehill.comA mild US flu season is waning, but is it really over?
This winter’s mild flu season has faded to a trickle of cases in much of the U.S., but health officials say they are not ready to call it over
Cheney primary prompts sharp GOP divide in Washington | CNN Politics
Republican lawmakers are starting to choose sides in the fight to defeat Rep. Liz Cheney in Wyoming, placing high-stakes bets in a divisive primary that is widely seen as a referendum on Donald Trump and cementing deep rifts in the GOP over the direction of the party.
www.cnn.com
EXPLAINER: Why would world leaders balk at giving Putin DNA?
If knowledge is power, knowing the intimate secrets of one’s DNA could be the ultimate weapon. That might explain why the world leaders who hastened to Moscow in recent days for diplomatic talks seemed to balk at Russian-administered coronavirus tests.
apnews.com
Israeli police scatter Palestinian protesters in Sheikh Jarrah
Reporters observed Israeli border police charging protesters with horses in occupied East Jerusalem.
Biden quietly courts Republican support for SCOTUS nominee
Officials are wary that GOP votes will ever materialize. There’s also some frustration over the lobbying campaign for one potential nominee.
www.politico.com
Prince Harry lawyers say he feels unsafe bringing kids to UK
Lawyers for Prince Harry say the British royal is unwilling to bring his children to his homeland because it is not safe.
apnews.com
Ohio’s Jane Timken hits male rivals ‘who overcompensate for their inadequacies’
Ohio Republican Senate candidate Jane Timken hit her male primary rivals in a new ad released on Friday, touting her support for former President Trump while accusing the other challengers of being…
thehill.com
Race excluded as WH rolls out climate justice screening tool
The Biden administration has released a screening tool to help identify disadvantaged communities long plagued by environmental hazards, but it won’t include race as a factor in deciding where to devote resources.
apnews.com
‘What Mr. Putin did not want’: U.S. approves $6B tank deal with Poland
The package is another piece in Poland's sweeping military modernization effort.
www.politico.com
Car buyers trade in haggling for sticker shock
In January, 82.2 percent of buyers paid an average of $728 above the MSRP for new cars.
www.nbcnews.com
Prince Harry says UK still his home as he bids for police security on visits
The Duke of Sussex is challenging a government decision to refuse police security during visits.
www.bbc.com
Kamala Harris in Europe: Will she help calm the Russia-Ukraine crisis?
Vice President Kamala Harris is in Germany this weekend to attend the Munich Security Conference — her fifth foreign trip as vice president — amid escalating warnings of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, which Biden administration officials have said is possible in the “next several days.”
A war Putin can lose
www.politico.com
Amazon workers in NYC set to vote on whether to unionize
The battle to unionize Amazon workers is intensifying after labor officials officially set a date for an election in a New York City facility next month
Closing prices for crude oil, gold and other commodities
Closing prices for crude oil, gold and other commodities, and foreign exchange levels
FDA learned of suspected infant formula illness four months before recall
The Minnesota Department of Health investigated a case of an infant who was sickened by Cronobacter sakazakii in September 2021, the state agency told POLITICO.
www.politico.com
Major League Baseball postpones spring training games amid lockout
MLB said Friday the owners' bargaining committee is committed to "starting the season on time."
www.cbsnews.comHow to win big by losing in crypto
BlockFi got into a tremendous amount of trouble with the SEC and more than 30 state regulators.
www.politico.com
US mulls booting Nicaragua from trade pact over crackdown
The Biden administration is considering trying to expel Nicaragua from a lucrative regional free trade pact to retaliate against President Daniel Ortega’s crackdown on his opponents.
apnews.com
UN chief: Security threat seems higher than during Cold War
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says the world is probably a more dangerous place now than during the Cold War.
apnews.com
Elon Musk's $5.7B donation sparks questions about giving
Leave it to Elon Musk to stir up controversy without saying (or tweeting) a word. According to a regulatory filling, the Tesla CEO donated about 5 million shares of company stock worth roughly $5.7 billion to charity in November.
apnews.com
An unsent text message and desperate phone calls detail California family's last moments before they died while hiking | CNN
Family selfies, nature photos, an unanswered text and several calls that were never connected detail the final hours of a California couple and their child before they died on a hiking trail near Yosemite last August.
www.cnn.com
'Keep a cool head': Ukraine urges calm as the drumbeats of war get louder
Western officials are warning that a Russian invasion could come any day now, but some top Ukrainian officials still think Putin is playing the pressure game.
www.politico.com
Gu's global coming-out party ends with 3rd Olympic medal
Eileen Gu turned the Beijing Olympics into her own personal playground. In the city. In the mountains. Spinning, flipping and flying at three different venues.
apnews.com
Minnesota Rep. Jim Hagedorn dies at 59 after cancer battle
U.S. Rep. Jim Hagedorn, a conservative Republican from southern Minnesota who followed his father’s footsteps into Congress, has died after a battle with kidney cancer.
apnews.com
In GOP embrace of truckers, some see racist double standard
Prominent American conservatives who embrace the Canadian truckers protesting COVID-19 restrictions are drawing new accusations of hypocrisy.
apnews.com
Biden is 'convinced' Putin has decided to invade Ukraine
U.S. President Joe Biden says he's “convinced” Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to invade Ukraine.
apnews.com
US ambassador to the UN says Russia's 'intentions are very clear' on Ukraine | CNN Politics
The US ambassador to the United Nations said Thursday that Russia’s “intentions are very clear” with Ukraine, hours after Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the UN Security Council in a tense meeting that Moscow was laying the groundwork to justify starting a war and preparing to launch an...
www.cnn.com
Videos hint at Russian information war targeting Ukraine
Metadata from two videos posted by Russia-backed separatists announcing an immediate evacuation of women, children and the elderly from Ukraine’s tense border regions shows the files were created two days ago, The Associated Press has confirmed.
apnews.comGOP senators steer clear of Trump as rift deepens
Senate Republicans want the former president's supporters, but some are avoiding him in a bid to make the midterms a referendum on Joe Biden’s leadership.
www.politico.com
Ukraine tensions: Russian demands hark back to Cold War, says Germany
Germany accuses Russia of putting peace at risk and calls for "serious steps towards de-escalation".
www.bbc.com
Sean Hannity dares Hillary Clinton to sue as she warns network's dishonest coverage gets 'close to actual malice' | CNN Business
Fox’s obsession with Hillary Clinton is only growing more fierce.
www.cnn.comJudge: DOJ's low-level charges "fostering confusion" about Jan. 6
The chief judge presiding over D.C.'s federal court chastised the Republican Party on Thursday for describing the Jan. 6 Capitol attack as "legitimate political discourse," and appeared to lay some blame at the feet of prosecutors for perceptions surrounding the riot. Driving the news: "A major...
Hackers beware: Justice Department doubles down on efforts to thwart global cybercrime
The Justice Department will assess whether there are steps it can take to prevent or reduce the risk to victims before it considers criminal charges.
www.usatoday.com
Take the 5th? The choice could soon be Trump's in NY probe
To plead the Fifth or not to plead the Fifth. That's the question facing Donald Trump after a New York judge Thursday ordered the former president to testify in a long-running state civil investigation into his business practices.
apnews.comU.S. says Putin is putting Ukraine invasion plan in motion
Senior U.S. officials pivoted Thursday from warning of the threat that Russia could soon invade Ukraine to the firm expectation the invasion is about to begin.What they're saying: “If Russia doesn’t invade, we will be relieved that Russia changed course and proved our predictions wrong,"...
Latest Ukraine updates: US says Putin made decision to invade
Russia-Ukraine news from February 18: Biden says Moscow has plan to attack Kyiv in ‘coming days’.
UN officials tell Kremlin not to worsen 'extremely dangerous situation'
A meeting of the U.N. Security Council convened by Russia opened with an appeal from neutral international officials who urged Moscow to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty amid warnings from U.S. officials that a major new offensive could soon begin.
www.washingtonexaminer.comThe White House throws cold water on a restaurant industry bailout
Lawmakers and allies are begging for cash amid a lingering pandemic. But the politics aren't in their favor.
www.politico.com
Trump's legal woes deepen and could bring new political trouble | CNN Politics
He might say he’s the master of the art of the deal. But Donald Trump’s real superpower is his talent for wriggling out of accountability after sailing close to the law and normal rules of politics, business and life in a way that would have destroyed most public figures long ago.
www.cnn.comRon Johnson Is Blocking His Own Judicial Nominee
The GOP senator recommended William Pocan to President Joe Biden, but now may tank his nomination for no real reason.
Judge rejects bid by Trumps to quash subpoenas from NY attorney general
A Manhattan judge rejected an effort by former President Donald Trump and two of his children to quash subpoenas in New York Attorney General Letitia James's civil investigation into the Trump Organization.
www.washingtonexaminer.comRussia-Ukraine live updates: EU takes bold steps to aid Ukraine forces
Live updates on the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
Families of American captives frustrated with Justice Dept.
Families of American hostages and detainees say they're frustrated with the Justice Department over what they see as the agency's refusal to consider prisoner exchanges that could get their loved ones home.
apnews.comWhisper campaigns grow as Biden nears choice for high court
The whispers and chatter about top contenders for the Supreme Court are growing as President Joe Biden zeroes in on a nominee to replace retiring Justice Stephen Breyer.
apnews.com
Exclusive: Experts say the term 'drought' may be insufficient to capture what is happening in the West | CNN Politics
Bureau of Reclamation chief Camille Touton told CNN the agency is managing the nation’s water resources in an uncertain, unprecedented time.
www.cnn.com
Ex-U.S. Attorney was wrong to bash critic of Barr's election memo -report
A Trump-era U.S. Attorney engaged in "unbecoming" conduct when he publicly bashed a federal prosecutor for signing a letter that was critical of then-Attorney General Bill Barr's order to pursue investigations into voting irregularities in the 2020 presidential election, a new report has found.
Biden expects Russia to invade Ukraine in "next several days"
President Biden told reporters Thursday that his "sense" is that Russia will invade Ukraine "within the next several days," as troops and supplies continue to arrive at the border and international monitors report shelling across the line of contact in eastern Ukraine.The latest: "Every...
Beijing Olympics spokesperson calls reports of human rights abuses against Uyghurs ‘lies’
In the last regularly scheduled daily press conference for the Beijing Olympics organizing committee, a committee spokesperson got political in response to reporters’ questions, say…
thehill.comRussia expels US diplomat; Blinken speaks at UN 'to prevent' a war: What we know
Blinken says US is reviewing Russia's response to security proposals regarding Ukraine. In DC, Biden says the threat of invasion remains "very high."
The never-before-told backstory of Pence's Jan. 6 argument
Former judge J. Michael Luttig shares the story of the run-up to the insurrection, and why he thinks it’s time to reform the Electoral Count Act.
www.politico.com
'The clock is ticking': Democrats on defense as Republicans pursue Latino voters
The deep focus on Latino voters by both parties promises to intensify in the coming months as Republicans plan to spend millions more on outreach.
www.nbcnews.com
U.S. presses for diplomatic solution as markets are hit by latest Ukraine-Russia tensions
The Ukraine crisis hit a pivotal point Thursday as it appeared Russia was gearing up for an invasion, and the U.S. intensified its diplomacy.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser's approval rating drops amid rising crime anxiety: Poll
The approval rating for Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser is dropping amid increased concerns over crime in her city.
www.washingtonexaminer.comDeSantis signs book deal: report
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) has reportedly signed a book deal.Politico, citing two people familiar with the matter, reported on Thursday that the Florida governor has accepted a "lucrative book deal with HarperCollins."One source inside the publishing industry told Politico that DeSantis had...
Border agency chief faces challenges from within and outside
Chris Magnus has many challenges to overcome in his new role as commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
apnews.com
Clinton campaign lawyer bets on fired FBI agent Peter Strzok to fight Durham case
Democratic lawyer Michael Sussmann relied in part on legal analysis by fired FBI agent Peter Strzok when arguing that the false statements charge brought against him by special counsel John Durham should be dismissed.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Why Congress' sanctions push cooled even as Russia's aggression didn't
President Joe Biden got deference this month — a stark contrast with Donald Trump, whose approach to Moscow got handcuffed early.
www.politico.com
After Mali exit, Niger accepts foreign forces to secure border
Comments by President Mohamed Bazoum come a day after France and European allies announce withdrawal from Mali.
Sources: 19 Austin police officers indicted over protests
A Texas grand jury has indicted 19 Austin police officers on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for their actions during 2020 protests over racial injustice that spread nationwide after the killing of George Floyd, according to people familiar with the matter.
apnews.comU.S. Democrats urge government to weigh canceling Trump hotel lease
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. government should consider canceling former President Donald Trump's lease of a historic Washington building he made into a luxury hotel before he sells it, a U.S. congressional committee said on Thursday. The committee in the Democratic-controlled House of...
Josh Mandel Could Be Ohio’s Next Senator. So What Does He Believe?
He publicly changed from moderate to full MAGA warrior to survive in today’s GOP. It might work.
www.politico.com
After months on army bases in US, Afghans face new uncertainties
Rights groups are calling on Congress to pass law to grant Afghan refugees path to permanent residency in US.
House Democratic campaign chairman fondly recalls ‘really pure’ MDMA in college
New York Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney reminisced about “really pure” MDMA, the drug also known as ecstasy or molly, while appearing on MSNBC’s Morning Joe on Thursday.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Protests grow in Puerto Rico amid demands for higher wages
Protests in Puerto Rico are multiplying as government employees demand higher pay and improved pensions
Opinion | The Speech In Which Putin Told Us Who He Was
In his 2007 Munich address, the Russian leader firmly rejected the post-Cold War system he's still trying to torpedo.
www.politico.comRep. Lauren Boebert’s ‘I Identify’ Tweet Mocking Joe Biden Goes Awry
“I’m sure that sounded much better in your head,” one critic tweeted at the extremist Republican.
Sexual assault reports increase at U.S. military academies
Reported sexual assaults at the U.S. military academies increased sharply during the 2020-21 school year, according to U.S. officials familiar with the reports.
Coast Guard seizes more than $1 billion worth of illegal cocaine and marijuana
Crews from nine U.S. ships seized 54,500 pounds of cocaine and 15,800 pounds of marijuana, the Coast Guard said.
www.cbsnews.com
Utah Republican governor says he will veto school choice bill
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox announced Thursday he will veto a school choice bill that has worked its way through the state Legislature, sparking criticism from conservatives.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Head of nation’s largest 4-year university system resigns under fire
The trustees accepted Joseph I. Castro's resignation, and the board is finalizing a succession plan.
www.politico.com
Sydney shark victim named after first fatal attack in 60 years
Beaches reopen after death of Simon Nellist in Little Bay beach, in first fatal shark attack off Sydney since 1963.
Ukraine conflict: Where are Russia's troops?
Up to 190,000 troops are positioned near Ukraine's borders.
www.bbc.com
Kim Potter sentenced to 2 years in Daunte Wright's death
Kim Potter, the former suburban Minneapolis police officer who said she confused her handgun for her Taser when she fatally shot Daunte Wright, has been sentenced to two years in prison.
apnews.com
U.S. Congress passes, sends Biden stop-gap funding bill to avoid gov't shutdown
The U.S. Congress on Thursday gave final approval of legislation funding the government through March 11, avoiding the embarrassing spectacle of federal agencies having to shut many of their operations amid the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
‘I hate this sport!’: Rage, teen tears and Olympic collapse
Russia’s trio of teenage figure skating stars each enter an uncertain future after what may be the most dramatic night in their sport's history.
apnews.com
Storm Eunice: Record wind gust amid disruption
Thousands are left without power, travel networks are disrupted and hundreds of schools are closed.
www.bbc.com
Youngkin tells AP he sees momentum across legislative agenda
Virginia’s Senate Democrats have voted down about 20 of Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s priorities so far in this year’s General Assembly session, but the newly inaugurated Republican remains optimistic about the entirety of his hefty agenda. Youngkin scored a major victory this week with bipartisan...
Kim Potter, ex-officer convicted in fatal shooting of Daunte Wright, sentenced to 2 years in prison -- less than prosecutors requested | CNN
Kim Potter, the former Minnesota police officer who mistakenly drew a gun instead of a Taser and fatally shot Daunte Wright, was sentenced to 2 years in prison on Friday, nearly two months after she was convicted of first- and second-degree manslaughter.
www.cnn.com
Asian shares slip as Ukraine tensions send US stocks lower
Shares have mostly fallen in Asia as investors remain anxious over the possibility that Russia could invade Ukraine
Activision CEO Bobby Kotick spent big money to back GOP campaigns through another LLC
Activision CEO Bobby Kotick has another LLC that he used to donate big money to Republican campaigns.
Brazil mudslide death toll is at 117, police say 116 missing
Brazilian officials now say at least 117 people died in the deaths in the mountain city of Petropolis, and 116 more are missing.
apnews.com
Harris faces the most critical foreign trip of her vice presidency | CNN Politics
When Vice President Kamala Harris enters the famed Hotel Bayerischer Hof on Friday in Munich, she’ll do so under the largest international gaze of her career.
www.cnn.com
Florida officer accused of excessive force after video captures him repeatedly punching man
A West Palm Beach police officer is alleged to have hit a man 11 times and put his knee on the man's head after he was handcuffed.
www.nbcnews.comRepublican lawmakers bar journalists from statehouse floors
Republican lawmakers in several states are scaling back access to government business, extending pandemic-era rules that restrict when journalists can report from the floors of state legislative chambers and, in effect, making it easier to dodge the press. As the public returns to the corridors...
Burning cargo ship is adrift in mid-Atlantic without crew
The Felicity Ace, which was carrying Volkswagen Group vehicles to the U.S., is adrift near Portugal's Azores Islands.
www.cbsnews.com
What to know about accounting firm Mazars' move to back away from Trump | CNN Politics
Mazars USA, the accounting firm that former President Donald Trump and his businesses have used for years, cut ties with him in stunning fashion, declaring it could no longer vouch for the financial statements it has complied over the past decade.
www.cnn.com
Authorities found 6-year-old girl missing since 2019 after receiving a tip different from any other information they had | CNN
Authorities had been searching more than two years for Paislee Shultis, a 4-year-old reported missing from her legal guardian in Cayuga Heights in upstate New York, without any luck.
www.cnn.com
Sharpton: Without no-knock warrant, Locke would be alive
The Rev. Al Sharpton told the hundreds gathered for Amir Locke’s funeral that the 22-year-old Black man would still be alive if Minneapolis had banned no-knock warrants.
apnews.comCurriculum struggle has Kansas GOP pursuing 'transparency'
Republican lawmakers seeking to limit what Kansas' public schools teach about racism have settled on a proposed “parents’ bill of rights” aimed at giving people outside the education system more power to shape what happens in classrooms and school libraries. A GOP-controlled Kansas House...
Giddy Hannity Goads Hillary to Sue Fox News for Defamation: ‘Bring It On!’
CNNSean Hannity on Thursday said he’d welcome a defamation lawsuit from Hillary Clinton after the former secretary of state blasted Fox News for its obsessive—and often incorrect—coverage of her.Earlier in the day, Clinton claimed that the network’s presentation of the findings in the Durham...
Trump, children are ordered to testify in N.Y. attorney general probe
A New York judge ruled on Thursday that former U.S. President Donald Trump and two of his adult children must answer questions under oath within 21 days in the state attorney general's civil probe into their family company.
Jobless claims rise for the first time in a month
The number of Americans applying for unemployment aid ticked up, but economists say labor market remains healthy.
www.cbsnews.com
Colorado elections clerk is sued after passing on voting data
A Colorado elections clerk was sued on Thursday after he copied data from voting machines with the help of two men with ties to groups supporting the false conspiracy theory that the 2020 election was stolen from former Republican President Donald Trump.
'I just feel like a joke': Devastated Mikaela Shiffrin left reeling after third Beijing crash | CNN
Mikaela Shiffrin’s Beijing nightmare continued on Thursday with the US skiing star left reeling from a third did-not-finish (DNF) at the Games.
www.cnn.com
Former Florida deputy named probable suspect in 1983 rape and murder of young girl
Officials are unable to pursue charges against James Howard Harrison because he died in 2008.
www.cbsnews.com
Ahmedabad 2008 blasts: India court sentences 38 to death
The deadly bombings in Gujarat state had killed 57 people and left hundreds injured.
www.bbc.com
U.S. plan for new center to process Afghan evacuees in Virginia sparks controversy
The U.S. government aims to open a new center in Northern Virginia to receive additional Afghan evacuees, according to four sources familiar with the matter, although even before any official announcement the local sheriff in the area raised concerns about the plan.
3 Exit Rep. Henry Cuellar's Campaign After FBI Raid On Home
Three consultants for the conservative Texas Democrat have left since late January.
Clocking in at under 10 minutes, this is the world's shortest international commercial flight | CNN
The flight between the Caribbean islands of Anguilla and Sint Maarten is currently the world's shortest international commercial flight. Find out how the minutes go by.
www.cnn.comFerry fire: Eleven missing as hundreds rescued off Corfu
Greek and Italian boats rush to rescue 290 people from a ferry but not everyone is accounted for.
www.bbc.com
Fire destroys iconic clubhouse at Oakland Hills golf club
A devastating fire swept through the century-old clubhouse Thursday at Oakland Hills Country Club, the suburban Detroit course that housed artifacts of some of golf’s biggest stars and the championships they won there.
apnews.com
Olympics Live: China pair breaks figure skating world record
Sui Wenjing and Han Cong of China shattered their own world record for a short program at the Beijing Games on Friday night, giving them the narrowest of leads over Russian rivals Evgenia Tarasova and Vladimir Morozov heading into the free skate to decide the Olympic champion.
apnews.com
China's Eileen Gu wins gold in freeski halfpipe to make Olympic history | CNN
China’s freeski sensation Eileen Gu won her second gold of the Beijing Winter Olympics on Friday, becoming the first freestyle skier to bag three medals at a single Games.
www.cnn.com
Beijing Olympics get political with Taiwan, Uyghur questions
For two weeks and more at daily news briefings, China’s stance on questions about its politics and policies has been straightforward: It’s the Olympics, and we’re not talking about these things.
apnews.comU.S. Coast Guard offloads $1 billion worth of narcotics
A U.S. Coast Guard vessel on Thursday offloaded more than 30 metric tons of cocaine and marijuana reportedly worth over $1 billion that was seized at sea during a months-long deployment off the coast of South America. The haul of illegal narcotics brought home by the U.S. Coast Guard cutter...
'Candy Bomber' who dropped sweets during Berlin airlift dies
A U.S. military pilot known as the “Candy Bomber” for his airdrops of sweets during the Berlin airlift after World War II ended has died.
apnews.com
Giant strawberry sets Guinness World Record | CNN
Israeli farmer Chahi Ariel has grown the world's heaviest strawberry, according to Guinness World Records.
www.cnn.com
Do Covid treatments work against the omicron subvariant? Scientists keep close watch
Early data suggests the omicron subvariant has the ability to overpower some Covid-19 treatments.
www.nbcnews.com
Hong Kong postpones leader election amid COVID-19 outbreak
Hong Kong will postpone the election of its next leader until May 8 as it grapples with a worsening coronavirus outbreak with thousands of new infections daily
House Republicans call for Pelosi to lift 'draconian' mask mandates at Capitol
House Republicans are calling on Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., to immediately rescind mask mandates and reopen the Capitol complex to visitors from the public.
Biden administration requests $5 billion to fight COVID-19 globally
The Biden administration on Friday requested $5 billion for the global COVID-19 response, including boosting vaccination rates in other countries, according to a congressional aide familiar with th…
thehill.com
A test to determine COVID immunity could reshape US policy
We need to develop a cut-off point for antibodies, no matter how you got them, whether via infection or vaccination, that we can all agree to rely on as a marker of immunity.
thehill.com
DC council member withdraws attempt to reinstate vaccine mandate, says Bowser not following 'the science'
A Washington, D.C., city council member tried to reinstate the city's indoor vaccine mandate after Mayor Muriel Bowser rolled it back, but said she didn't have the votes to do so.
Overnight Health Care — Surgeon General tests positive for COVID-19
Welcome to Friday’s Overnight Health Care, where we’re following the latest moves on policy and news affecting your health. Subscribe here: thehill.com/newsletter-signup. The D.C. Council will…
thehill.com
'No-COVID' policy drags on Hong Kong economy as cases surge
Once bustling Hong Kong is languishing amid a strict zero-COVID strategy that has closed bank branches and movie theaters
Ex-CNN executive discussed interview topics with Andrew Cuomo: report
Former top marketing executive at CNN, Allison Gollust, allegedly discussed interview topics with former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) before Cuomo was set to make a March 2020 appearance on CNN, …
thehill.com
Boris Johnson returns lockdown party questionnaire to police
Boris Johnson was one of more than 50 people to be sent the document by the Metropolitan Police.
www.bbc.com
US military has approved religious exemptions to vaccine mandate for 15 service members out of 16,000 requests | CNN Politics
The US military has approved religious exemptions to its Covid-19 vaccine mandate for 15 service members out of approximately 16,000 requests, according to the latest data from the services.
www.cnn.com
'No-COVID' policy drags on Hong Kong economy as cases surge
Once bustling Hong Kong is languishing amid a strict zero-COVID strategy that has closed bank branches and movie theaters.
apnews.com
California adopts nation's 1st 'endemic' virus policy
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced the first shift by a state to an “endemic” approach to the coronavirus pandemic.
apnews.com
Omicron spread quickly at convention in New York City -- but boosters helped
Federal researchers have released a report detailing how the first cases of the omicron variant were detected and spread in New York City.
Hong Kong hospitals hit 90 percent capacity as virus cases surge
To ease the strain on the Chinese territory’s healthcare system, officials said they will take a different approach to hospitalization and isolation policies.
www.nbcnews.com
Proposal to reinstate newly lifted DC vaccine mandate ditched over lack of votes
Vaccine requirements for patrons of indoor businesses will not return to Washington, D.C., after a city lawmaker abruptly withdrew her emergency proposal that sought to reinstate the districtwide mandate just days after it was lifted.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
End of UK COVID restrictions will not free the immunocompromised
Without a vaccine equivalent that can protect us proactively becoming available, we cannot safely rejoin society.
U.S. Marine Reservist already charged in Jan. 6 Capitol riot case busted for fake Covid vaccine ID scam
The Defense Department mandated that all service personnel be vaccinated for Covid-19.
S. Korea keeps crowd limits as omicron causes 25-fold spike
South Korea will extend restaurant dining hours but maintain a six-person limit on private social gatherings as it wrestles with a massive coronavirus wave driven by the highly infectious omicron variant.
apnews.com
More big companies are dropping vaccine requirement for workers
Adidas, Intel and Starbucks are among the major U.S. employers jettisoning rules ordering workers to get vaccinated.
www.cbsnews.com
Disney says face masks now optional for vaccinated visitors at U.S. theme parks
As virus counts fall, Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals drop COVID-19 requirements for April events.
www.cbsnews.com
California first state to make official shift to endemic approach to 'live with' coronavirus
California Gov. Gavin Newsom outlined the state’s plan Thursday to formally shift to an “endemic” approach to learn to “live with” the coronavirus.
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