Brynn Anderson/AP, FILE
Among the dozens of election reform laws changing rules regarding how voters cast ballots, several have also diminished secretaries of states' authority over elections or shifted aspects of election administration to highly partisan bodies, such as state legislators themselves or unevenly bipartisan election boards.
Pro-Trump Republicans determined to oust GOP incumbents who supported impeachment
Forty Republicans have filed candidacies to run against 10 of the 11 Republicans who supported President Donald Trump's impeachment and are facing reelection in 2022.
Cuomo exit isn't stopping push for answers on nursing homes
Sexual harassment allegations cost New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo his job. Now, many want to see him answer for a scandal that cut to the heart of his reputation as a pandemic hero and may have had life-and-death consequences — his administration's handling of outbreaks in nursing homes.
apnews.com
Taliban take Kandahar, Herat in major Afghanistan offensive
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — The Taliban captured two major Afghan cities, the country's second- and third-largest after Kabul, and a strategic provincial capital on Thursday, further squeezing the embattled government just weeks before the end of the American military mission in Afghanistan.
apnews.com
The Taliban may be executing Afghan troops who surrender, U.S. Embassy says
The reported executions are "deeply disturbing & could constitute war crimes," according to the embassy in Kabul, as the Taliban continue to take territory.
www.cbsnews.com
Texas Senate passes voting bill, but the House remains paralyzed
Democrats in the House fled the state in a bid to stop approval in the chamber.
www.nbcnews.com
Biden allies warn: Pass his agenda or lose women voters
In a new memo, obtained by POLITICO, the Center for American Progress said the economic recovery would leave women behind if only an infrastructure bill was passed.
www.politico.com
US Embassy in Kabul again urges Americans to leave Afghanistan 'immediately' | CNN Politics
The US Embassy in Kabul again urged American citizens to leave Afghanistan "immediately" amid rapid Taliban gains in the country.
Texas Dem Gene Wu temporarily avoids arrest after fleeing to DC, says 'hell no' to returning
Texas Democrat Gene Wu, one of 52 state lawmakers facing arrest for fleeing the state, temporarily avoided apprehension after challenging the legality of his arrest warrant in court.
South Dakota Gov fiercely defends Sturgis Motorcycle Rally against ‘superspreader’ accusations
Kristi Noem pushed back on the rally being a hotbed for COVID-19 as the event continues.
thehill.com
Texas is the first state to make buying sex a felony. Will this help trafficking victims?
While some experts say the law reflects a new wave of systemic reform and could help trafficked sex workers by deterring demand, others say it misses the mark and instead will further tie the victims up in the legal system.
www.nbcnews.com
New Census numbers paint picture of race and ethnicity in U.S. But how are those defined?
New Census data will paint a picture of the racial and ethnic composition of hte country. Here's how it defines those categories.
www.usatoday.com
Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw heckled for saying the 2020 election wasn't stolen
Former President Donald Trump and his allies filed dozens of lawsuits contesting the results of the November election, the overwhelming majority of them unsuccessful.
www.nbcnews.com
Abbott rips White House, says Texas can help with oil production if Biden admin will 'stay out of the way'
Abbott posted a short open letter to the White House on Twitter Wednesday, touting that Texas could help bring down the price of gas by producing oil domestically.
Biden-linked lobbyists see sharp increase in cash streams
One firm cashing in on the Biden administration is headed by a staff official at the White House. Two other firms are linked to lobbyists who previously worked under Biden.
Report finds US government has made progress on cybersecurity, more work remains
The federal government has made “significant” progress on strengthening the United States against cyber threats over the past year, but more work remains, a congressionally-established bipartisan c…
thehill.com
Texas state senator ends 15-hour filibuster; voting bill passes
Democrat Carol Alvarado began speaking shortly before 6 p.m. Wednesday even though she acknowledged that the filibuster would not block the legislation.
www.politico.com
US military analysis says Kabul could fall to Taliban in 90 days: Official
A new military analysis warns that Kabul could become isolated in 30 to 60 days and could fall to the militant group in 90 days, a U.S. official confirmed to ABC News.
Biden's complicated new task: keeping Democrats together
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden overcame skepticism, deep political polarization and legislative gamesmanship to win bipartisan approval in the Senate this week of his $1 trillion infrastructure bill.
apnews.com
Schumer gets big victories — but headaches loom
Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) scored two significant victories this week, but he’s facing big headaches as he tries to keep his razor-thin caucus unified while President Bid…
thehill.com
'Irrational zealotry': GOP governors in standoff with schools over masks
State leaders have threatened to withhold funding from schools and cities that mandate masks, but some local officials won't back down.
www.nbcnews.com
Here Are 5 Hurdles That Democrats Face Now For Their $3.5 Trillion Budget
Narrow margins in both the House and Senate and significant philosophical divisions inside the party mean Democratic leaders face a difficult task steering the massive bill.
www.npr.org
Gaetz associate providing feds intel, documents as probe into congressman continues: Sources
Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz's one-time wingman has been steadily providing investigators with potential evidence that could implicate Gaetz in a federal probe, sources say.
Hochul distances herself from Cuomo, says she’ll eliminate ‘toxic’ environment as governor
The lieutenant governor is slated to become New York's first female governor when Andrew Cuomo steps down in two weeks.
www.nbcnews.com
#MeToo Take 2? Movement’s strength hailed amid Cuomo fallout
NEW YORK (AP) — Anita Hill educated a nation about workplace sexual harassment back in 1991 with calm, deliberate testimony against Clarence Thomas. And today, 30 years later, she speaks in the same measured tones, eschewing dramatic declarations — especially of victory — and sounding more like...
apnews.com
Biden to deliver ‘forceful’ call for Congress to lower drug prices
President Biden on Thursday will deliver a “forceful” call for Congress to act to lower prescription drug prices, a White House official said, as the president shines a spotlight on a k…
thehill.com
Over 1 million without power in wake of severe storms in Midwest
Over 1 million customers were without power Thursday morning in the Midwest following severe storms.
DNC members grow frustrated over increasing White House influence
Democratic National Committee (DNC) members are growing increasingly frustrated by the White House’s influence on their political operation, causing friction between aides to President Biden and th…
thehill.com
Taliban claims to have taken Kandahar as onslaught continues
The armed group has been advancing rapidly across Afghanistan seizing at least 11 provincial capitals in a week.
NAACP asks DOJ to investigate Texas over warrant for runaway Dem lawmakers
The NAACP Wednesday called on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate Texas over the arrest warrants issued by the Texas House speaker for the Democrats who fled the state.
Congress is about to get a shake-up. Here's what's coming with new census data.
The stakes are higher than ever before this cycle, experts and voting rights advocates say, with fewer safeguards for voters of color.
www.nbcnews.com
The Memo: Biden faces grim reality in Afghanistan
The Taliban are on the march in Afghanistan — and President Biden is in a no-win situation.Biden is adamant that he made the right decision when he announced in April that he would withdraw U.S. fo…
thehill.com
Judge rules Dominion defamation case against Trump allies can proceed
A federal judge cleared the way for a defamation case by Dominion Voting Systems to proceed against Sidney Powell, Rudy Giuliani and Mike Lindell.
www.cbsnews.com
Senators set stage for antitrust fight
Verizon wins over TracFone merger critics — FTC’s Slaughter calls for action on algorithmic bias
www.politico.com
Top Senate Democrats urge Biden to take immediate action on home confinement program
Two top Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee are calling on President Biden to quickly adopt a plan to keep thousands of federal inmates who were transferred to home confinement during the p…
thehill.com
Russia holds hypersonic flight expert in spy probe
Alexander Kuranov, detained by FSB agents, runs a team of pioneering spaceflight researchers.
www.bbc.com
Man claimed QAnon made him kill his children, FBI says
The FBI said in court documents filed Wednesday that a man charged with killing his 2-year-old son and 10-month-old daughter blamed QAnon for his actions.Matthew Taylor Coleman believed his wi…
thehill.com
Biden re-ups 'vision' for letting Medicare negotiate drug prices, calls on Congress to take action
President Joe Biden will outline on Thursday his "vision" for lowering prescription drug prices, but the proposal will require new legislation from Congress.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Nearly 2 In 3 Americans Are Dealing With Dangerous Heat Waves
The National Weather Service predicts areas on the East Coast could reach 100 degrees Thursday, with triple-digit temperatures in the Pacific Northwest, too. Relief isn't expected until the weekend.
www.npr.org
Taliban take Kandahar, Herat in major Afghanistan offensive
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — The Taliban captured two major Afghan cities, the country's second- and third-largest after Kabul, and a strategic provincial capital on Thursday, further squeezing the embattled government just weeks before the end of the American military mission in Afghanistan.
apnews.com
Emails: Senior DOJ officials wrangled over baseless Trump voter fraud allegations
A viral video of Georgia vote-counting captured the attention of the then-president. The resulting internal tussle ended with evidence to debunk his claims.
www.politico.com
Utah governor responds to constituent demanding he change ‘obscene’ last name
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox (R) has gone viral over his response to a constituent who demanded that he change his last name, which they called “obscene.”“Really grateful for the criticism and…
thehill.com
California justices won't limit governor's emergency powers
The California Supreme Court on Wednesday declined to consider reining in Gov. Gavin Newsom’s emergency powers during the coronavirus pandemic, leaving in place a lower court’s ruling that the governor acted within his authority.
Trump claims Afghanistan withdrawal would be 'much more successful' with him in office
Former President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden for the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, making him the second former commander in chief to criticize the Biden administration’s moves toward ending the two-decadeslong war.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Belarus Olympic defector Tsimanouskaya auctions medal on eBay
In an interview with Al Jazeera, the 24-year-old explains why she will part with her medal as she recounts her ordeal.
Sweeping GOP elections bill passes Texas Senate after 15-hour Democratic filibuster ends
A Democrat delayed a vote on SB 1 for 15 hours during a filibuster meant to call attention to opposed provisions of the GOP voting and elections bill.
www.usatoday.com
Hochul calls allegations against Cuomo 'sickening,' vows 'a very different environment'
Hochul also told NBC's "Today" show that she plans to run for a full term as governor next year.
www.nbcnews.com
More than 9,000 anti-Asian incidents since pandemic began
The frequency of anti-Asian incidents — from taunts to outright assaults — reported in the United States so far this year seems poised to surpass last year despite months of political and social activism, according to a new report released Thursday.
apnews.com
Jobless claims fall by 12,000 to 375K
New applications for jobless benefits fell during the first week of August by 12,000 to a total of 375,000, according to data released Thursday by the Labor Department.In the week ending Aug. 7, in…
thehill.com
Europe may have just seen its hottest day ever
But the 120-degree reading from Sicily, which needs to be verified by the World Meteorological Organization, was treated cautiously by some experts.
www.nbcnews.com
Afghanistan’s war will spread beyond its borders as Taliban advances, senior negotiator warns
Officials have warned of catastrophic violence in Afghanistan as the deadline approaches for all U.S. troops to withdraw by the end of August.
Biden Wants To Reengage With The World, But His Ambassadors Are Mostly Absent
During the campaign, President Biden said he'd put U.S. diplomacy back in the "hands of genuine professionals," but only one of his ambassadors to a foreign capital has been confirmed.
www.npr.org
One-time Tropical Storm Fred could dump heavy rain on Florida within days, forecasters say
The National Hurricane Center says the former tropical storm may strengthen. CBS News forecasters say it could bring torrential downpours and flooding to Florida.
www.cbsnews.com
'That's the guy from TikTok!' Kentucky Democrats use app to make inroads with young voters
Relegated to a tiny minority in Frankfort, Senate Democrats have created what's become a viral TikTok account in an effort to reach young voters.
www.usatoday.com
Black farmers facing ‘extinction’ fight for $5B in promised aid
Congressional aid for disadvantaged farmers that was authorized earlier this year as part of President Biden’s $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief law is being challenged in the courts by white …
thehill.com
'He still doesn't trust Donald Trump': White House dismisses claims Biden contributed to vaccine hesitancy
The White House denied that President Joe Biden contributed to vaccine hesitancy as his administration grapples with stagnated vaccination rates against the coronavirus.
San Francisco salon owner who exposed Pelosi talks about losing her business a year later
It's been nearly a year since former San Francisco salon owner Erica Kious shuttered her business after exposing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for getting her hair washed and blown out despite coronavirus restrictions.
Oregon school board votes to ban Black Lives Matter, Pride signs from district buildings
"This feels so draconian ... this feels so anti-everything," one board member said. "Anti-free speech, anti-free expression, anti-safety."
www.nbcnews.com
Fraternal Order of Police labels Newsmax host a ‘clown’ over Jan. 6 suggestion
The National Fraternal Order of Police issued a scathing rebuke to comments made by a host on a conservative news network about a member of law enforcement who responded to the Jan. 6 insurrection.…
thehill.com
Extreme Heat Is Worse For Low-Income, Nonwhite Americans, A New Study Shows
A new study finds that for more than 70% of all U.S. counties, urban temperatures are higher in neighborhoods that have low-income people and communities of color.
www.npr.org
What is gerrymandering? Redistricting means new winners and losers
The word is tossed around a lot, and you'll hear it even more as states start to redraw congressional districts. But what exactly is gerrymandering?
www.usatoday.com
Afghanistan gov’t offers to share power with Taliban: Official
Kabul makes power-sharing proposal to Taliban in exchange for halt in escalating violence, top source tells Al Jazeera.
Producer prices rose record 7.8 percent annually in July
Producer prices rose a seasonally adjusted 1 percent in July and record-breaking 7.8 percent over the past 12 months on an unadjusted basis, according to data released Thursday by the Labor Departm…
thehill.com
Independent commissions add another wildcard to redistricting fight
First Read is your briefing from "Meet the Press" and the NBC Political Unit on the day's most important political stories and why they matter.
www.nbcnews.com
Microsoft challenges NSA cloud contract reportedly awarded to Amazon
Amazon previously protested a high-profile Pentagon cloud contract that was awarded to Microsoft.
Time's Up president apologizes for backing Cuomo but declines to resign, claiming 'we were used as cover'
Time’s Up president and CEO Tina Tchen apologized for her past support of outgoing New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, but unlike the disgraced Democrat she will not be resigning from her post.
Incoming New York Gov. Kathy Hochul plans to run for full term in 2022
New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, the woman set to take over as governor following Andrew Cuomo’s resignation, plans to run for reelection and a full term as governor in 2022.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
European countries halt deportations amid Afghanistan fighting
France confirms pause on refugee returns amid Taliban gains, joining Germany, Netherlands, Finland, Sweden and Norway.
Why school districts nationwide are facing bus driver shortages
School districts across the country have reported bus driver staffing issues as they prepare to welcome back more students.
San Francisco salon owner who exposed Pelosi talks about losing her business a year later
It's been nearly a year since former San Francisco salon owner Erica Kious shuttered her business after exposing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for getting her hair washed and blown out despite coronavirus restrictions.
Census: US sees unprecedented multiracial growth, decline in the white population for first time in history
The results from the 2020 census are meant to be a snapshot of the population as of April 1, 2020. The data will show how the population has changed.
www.usatoday.com
Hacker behind $600 million crypto heist claims they did it ‘for fun’
The heist, one of the biggest cryptocurrency thefts ever, happened on a decentralized finance platform called Poly Network.
www.nbcnews.com
First water cuts in US West supply to hammer Arizona farmers
CASA GRANDE, Ariz. (AP) — A harvester rumbles through the fields in the early morning light, mowing down rows of corn and chopping up ears, husks and stalks into mulch for feed at a local dairy. The cows won't get their salad next year, at least not from this farm.
apnews.com
Turkish capital reels from violent protests against Syrians
Protesters attacked houses owned by Syrians after tensions flared over reports of a fatal stabbing.
www.bbc.com
U.S. jobless claims near pandemic low as economy strengthens
Thursday's report from the Labor Department showed that jobless claims fell to 375,000 from 387,000 the previous week.
www.politico.com
Meet the lobbyists who are already working to influence incoming NY governor Kathy Hochul
Kathy Hochul won't take over as New York's governor for about two weeks, but several lobbyists already have a leg up in the race to influence her.
London police chief says department is reviewing Prince Andrew case
London’s police commissioner said Thursday that her department is reviewing files on Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, who currently faces allegations of sexual assault in the U.S.Co…
thehill.com
Daycare Is Costly In The U.S. — So Is Biden's Plan To Fix It
In the pandemic, child care has gotten the attention of policymakers like never before, and billions of dollars in emergency funds have stabilized the industry. Biden wants more.
www.npr.org
Director warns against algorithms in Instagram feud
"We have to be vigilant before the machines decide what we can and cannot do," Pedro Almodovar said.
www.nbcnews.com
DeSantis tells Floridians to review disaster plans as Tropical Storm Fred approaches
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) told residents on Wednesday to review their disaster plans as Tropical Storm Fred approaches the state.“PTC #6 developed into Tropical Storm #Fred overnight. This is t…
thehill.com
Lawyers for ex-gynecologist accused of sexually abusing dozens of patients accuse federal prosecutors of "acting as a tool of the Manhattan DA"
Robert Hadden's attorneys said federal and local prosecutors are engaged in "something closer to illicit collusion."
www.cbsnews.com
Brazil Congress expels lawmaker over murder charges
Gospel singer turned lawmaker Flordelis de Souza is accused of ordering the murder of her husband.
www.bbc.com
Abacus Data: Trudeau's Liberals in majority territory, but no guarantee
"They are certainly as close to a majority as they have been since the last election," says pollster David Coletto.
www.politico.com
3 brothers die after passing out from fumes in manure pit
They were fixing a manure pump before they passed out from the fumes, St. Henry, Ohio, fire Chief Matt Lefeld said.
www.nbcnews.com
US calls for immediate release of Afghan officials held by Taliban
The United States is calling for the immediate release of Afghan officials who are being held by the Taliban. In a statement posted to Twitter, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul said it “strongly condemn t…
thehill.com
Virginia poll shows McAuliffe up over Youngkin but comes with warning signs
Former Democratic Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe has a 5-point lead over Republican nominee Glenn Youngkin as he aims for a second, non-consecutive term as governor of Virginia, according to the latest poll testing the race.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
K-pop star Seungri sentenced to 3 years in prison in prostitution case
Before his fall from grace, Seungri was one of the biggest stars in K-pop because of the success of the boy band Big Bang.
www.cbsnews.com
Nebraska football player dies after heat-related medical emergency at practice
The temperature was 91 degrees with a heat index of 105 when 16-year-old Drake Geiger collapsed.
www.nbcnews.com
Census data sets up redistricting fight over growing suburbs
The once-a-decade battle over redistricting is set to be a showdown over the suburbs, as new census data showed rapid growth around some of the nation's largest cities and shrinking population in many rural counties.
apnews.com
Rand Paul disclosure shows his wife bought stock in COVID-19 treatment in late filing
Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) disclosed on Wednesday that his wife purchased stock in Gilead Sciences, a company that manufactures a COVID-19 treatment, in February 2020, when information regarding the co…
thehill.com
Fox News Poll: High concern over higher prices
The latest Fox News poll shows that voter concern over inflation remains sky high, and more voters blame higher prices on the COVID-19 pandemic than on the government.
FDA poised to authorize 3rd vaccine dose for immune-compromised people: Sources
The FDA is planning to authorize a third shot for the immune-compromised Thursday, two sources familiar with the plans confirmed to ABC News.
Taliban take Kandahar, Herat in major Afghanistan offensive
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — The Taliban captured two major Afghan cities, the country's second- and third-largest after Kabul, and a strategic provincial capital on Thursday, further squeezing the embattled government just weeks before the end of the American military mission in Afghanistan.
apnews.com
White House seizes an opportunity to whack DeSantis
The pair has been feuding as Florida faces a surge in infections. And each has something to gain.
www.politico.com
Biden aims to soothe moderates’ concerns with spending plan pitch
President Biden on Wednesday sought to tamp down concerns about adding to the national debt or increasing inflation as he made the case for enacting a multitrillion-dollar spending plan that w…
thehill.com
Judge rules Democrats can have only limited access to Trump’s financial records
The judge allowed a subpoena for records on Trump's lease for a hotel in Washington and on whether income on overseas properties violated the Constitution's ban on foreign emoluments.
www.nbcnews.com
Texas governor files legal challenge to end Dallas County mask mandate
A federal judge on Tuesday night temporarily halted an order from Abbott that banned mask mandates.
www.cbsnews.com
Bernie Sanders says he plans to persuade progressives to help pass $3.5T spending package
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) suggested he will try to persuade progressives to help pass the $3.5 trillion spending package the Senate approved early Wednesday as Democrats work to keep th…
thehill.com
California dad killed his kids over QAnon and 'serpent DNA' conspiracy theories, feds allege
Authorities say Matthew Taylor Coleman confessed to murdering his two young children in Mexico and told investigators he thought they would "grow into monsters."
www.nbcnews.com
Analysis: Biden forges ahead where Trump and Obama failed on infrastructure and Afghanistan
Every president since George W. Bush has said it's time to leave Afghanistan and turn to nation building at home.
Trump to meet with former Cheney ally about Wyoming primary challenge
The former president has been interviewing potential challengers with an eye toward making an endorsement against Cheney.
www.politico.com
Judge allows defamation lawsuits against Sidney Powell, Rudy Giuliani and MyPillow CEO to go forward
Three major defamation lawsuits from Dominion Voting Systems against MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell and the right-wing lawyers Sidney Powell and Rudy Giuliani will move forward toward a trial, a federal judge ruled on Wednesday.
Civil warrants served at Texas Democrats' statehouse offices, but holdout continues
The power the warrants carry to get the lawmakers back to the chamber remains unclear.
www.nbcnews.com
US keeping distance as Afghan forces face Taliban rout
WASHINGTON (AP) — Afghan government forces are collapsing even faster than U.S. military leaders thought possible just a few months ago when President Joe Biden ordered a full withdrawal.
apnews.com
Northwest heat wave: Volunteers get water to the vulnerable
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Volunteers scrambled to hand out water, portable fans, popsicles and information about cooling shelters Thursday to homeless people living in isolated encampments on the outskirts of Portland, Oregon, as the Pacific Northwest sweated through a heat wave gripping the...
apnews.com
First person linked to 'Three Percenters' to plead guilty in U.S. Capitol riot
A New Jersey woman on Monday became the first person associated with the "Three Percenters" militia to agree to plead guilty to a charge related to the Jan. 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol by supporters of then-President Donald Trump. A plea hearing for Rasha Abual-Ragheb, a Lebanese-born...
Sean Hannity says lawyers won't let him accept copy of Hunter Biden laptop
Fox News host Sean Hannity said his lawyers won't accept a copy of the laptop believed to have belonged to Hunter Biden.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
If You Think Kids Are Eating Mostly Junk Food, A New Study Finds You're Right
What do frozen pizza, cookies and ice cream have in common? A new study finds ultra-processed foods make up the majority of U.S. children's and teens' diets.
www.npr.org
Judge refuses to toss out Dominion defamation suits against Powell, Giuliani and Lindell
The ruling from the Trump appointee is likely to force depositions by the three allies of the former president.
www.politico.com
Revealed: Rudy Giuliani interview with DOJ watchdog team on Hillary Clinton email investigation leaks
Rudy Giuliani's 2018 interview with the Justice Department inspector general's team in which he explained his "big surprises" tease during the 2016 election cycle was released to the public on Wednesday.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Trump says he spoke with Ashli Babbitt's family as he calls for 'justice'
Former President Donald Trump said he spoke with the family of Ashli Babbitt, the Air Force veteran who was shot and killed by an unidentified officer during the Jan. 6 Capitol siege, and demanded "justice" over the incident.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Cuomo successor Kathy Hochul says 14-day transition period 'not what I asked for'
New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul indicated Wednesday that she disagreed with outgoing Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s decision to formally step down from office after a two-week transition period.
Robert Durst says he lied to police about night wife disappeared
Robert Durst has never been charged in the 1982 disappearance of his wife Kathie Durst. He said he lied to police about talking to her on the phone.
www.nbcnews.com
Grassley asks DOJ watchdog for records after ATF nominee Chipman accused of racial bias
Ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, on Wednesday requested that the Department of Justice hand over all records relating to a complaint of racial bias levied at David Chipman, President Biden’s nominee for the top job at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco...
ICE deportation agents ordered not to detain crime victims
By minimizing the "chilling effect" of potential deportation, the policy change can encourage undocumented immigrants to contact law enforcement, ICE argued.
www.cbsnews.com
Heffernan: Biden's 'build back better' just beat Trump all over again
Trump lost and Biden won on the $1-trillion infrastructure bill, thanks to a big, beautiful bipartisan agreement.
Belarus blocks entry of US ambassador as retaliation for sanctions
Belarus on Wednesday blocked the U.S. ambassador from entering its country in response to new sanctions President Biden imposed on Monday.The White House levied new sanctions on Belarus o…
thehill.com
Republicans are blocking a Muslim Biden nominee because an advocacy group he's associated with criticized Israel
Biden nominated Dilawar Syed, a healthcare company CEO to serve in the No. 2 post at the Small Business Administration.
The child tax credit may be helping ease economic hardship after just one round
Only the first payment of the enhanced child tax credit has gone out so far, but it already seems to be having a big impact on American families.
Australia floats strategic dialogue with US to counter China’s ‘economic coercion’
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison wants to launch a new "strategic economic dialogue” with the United States to counter China’s economic clout.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Biden on Afghanistan: Not my problem
The president is unwilling to rethink his decision to withdraw U.S. troops, even as Afghanistan unravels faster than expected.
www.politico.com
Hochul: NY gov's office won't be toxic workplace on my watch
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Suddenly propelled to lead New York, Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul vowed Wednesday to set a better tone in state government after the sexual harassment scandal that spurred Gov.
apnews.com
Parents of 337 migrant children separated at border under Trump still have not been found, court filing says | CNN Politics
Attorneys are still trying to reach the parents of 337 migrant children who were separated at the US-Mexico border under the Trump administration, down from 368 in June, according to a federal court filing Wednesday.
Demand for air travel flatlines amid delta variant surge
There are signs emerging that the highly contagious delta variant is dampening demand for air travel: Cancelations are up, passenger loads, air fare are on the decline.
Senate Democrats unfazed by GOP police funding proposal
Tuesday night, a proposal by Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville did not do that. Instead, the Alabama freshman's attempt to embarrass Democrats on the issue of defunding the police induced an animated Sen. Cory Booker to sarcastically thank Tuberville for a political “gift.” Tuberville began...
WHO to trial malaria, arthritis drugs as COVID treatments
Three drugs will be added to the UN agency’s global trial to test their efficacy in patients hospitalised with COVID-19.
Coast Guard orders four more $65 million apiece fast response vessels
The Coast Guard has purchased four additional Fast Response Cutters, which have a price tag of $65 million apiece.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Higher but still slim odds of asteroid Bennu slamming Earth
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The good news is that scientists have a better handle on asteroid Bennu’s whereabouts for the next 200 years. The bad news is that the space rock has a slightly greater chance of clobbering Earth than previously thought.
apnews.com
Amnesty reports widespread rapes 'with impunity' in Tigray
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Dozens of women have described shocking sexual assaults by Ethiopian soldiers and allied forces in the country’s Tigray conflict, says an Amnesty International report published Wednesday, and its researcher calls it striking how the perpetrators appeared to act without...
apnews.com
Alarming CDC report says new tropical disease had killed two in US
Melioidosis, a bacterial infection, is normally found in tropical regions.
thehill.com
Cryptocurrency heist hacker returns $260m in funds
The hacker behind the $600m Poly Network cryptocurrency heist has posted a Q&A on the blockchain.
www.bbc.com
Biden team is seeking ways to address rising energy prices
President Joe Biden’s administration is moving at home and abroad to try to address concerns about rising energy prices slowing the nation’s recovery from the pandemic-induced recession
Do the Taliban want to conquer or compromise?
The BBC speaks to two high profile figures in its chain of command who have very different messages.
www.bbc.com
Intel officials draft classified report as they near finish of 90-day Covid probe
Intelligence officials are nearing the end of a 90-day investigation into the origins of Covid-19 that was ordered by President Joe Biden, and have drafted a classified report that is now in the preliminary review process, according to three sources familiar with the probe.
Cuomo resignation: The women who rise after powerful men fall
Andrew Cuomo is the latest man forced out of power in the US by #MeToo claims reshaping politics, business and media.
Disappearing asylum protections for migrant families at border test Biden
Melissa Pinedo, a 27-year-old single mother from Guatemala, has been living in a tent in Reynosa, Mexico, across the border from Texas for weeks trying to find someone to call about a fast-closing window for seeking U.S. asylum.
www.reuters.com
How North American cities are bracing for more heatwaves
Local governments are getting creative when it comes to tackling frequent and extreme heat.
www.bbc.com
A Former College Professor Accused Of Serial Arson Is Denied Bail In California
"Where [Gary] Maynard went, fires started. Not just once, but over and over again," the government said in a court memorandum.
www.npr.org
California man charged with murdering his 2 young children in Mexico, authorities say
The children were found in a ditch near a ranch in Mexico.
Another big company hit by a ransomware attack
Accenture, the global consulting firm, has been hit by the LockBit ransomware gang, according to the cybercriminal group's website.
Fear reigns in Afghanistan as the Taliban overruns more cities
In less than a week, the Taliban has overrun one-quarter of Afghanistan's provincial capitals in a huge swathe of territory across the north of the country. The security situation here is unravelling faster than almost anyone expected -- with the possible exception of the Taliban themselves.
2 Coaches Charged With Murder After A High Schooler Suffered Heat Stroke And Died
A grand jury in Georgia has charged the coaches with murder and child cruelty in the death of a 16-year-old basketball player who died after practicing outdoors in nearly 100-degree weather.
www.npr.org
Chilling body camera video shows suspected gunman stepping over slain Chicago Officer Ella French
Shocking body camera video shows suspected gunman stepping over slain Chicago Officer Ella French
Texas Democrat to filibuster GOP elections bill
Texas Democrats on Wednesday announced their intentions to block through a filibuster the state’s GOP-backed election bill, the same one Texas House Democrats previously f…
thehill.com
California has enough Democrats to save Newsom — if he can persuade them to vote
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s electoral math relies on running up large margins in populous, heavily Democratic areas like the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles.
www.politico.com
Prides flags replaced by Confederate flags on Virginia Tech campus
The school’s LGBTQ students are “hurt, saddened and scared” following the recent event, according to the campus minister.
www.nbcnews.com
Shell pays $111m over 1970s oil spill in Nigeria
The payment marks the end of a long-running legal battle over a spill during the 1967-70 Biafran War.
www.bbc.com
U.S. weighing possible evacuation of Kabul embassy, sources say
www.politico.com
Front-line workers warn of significant increase in pediatric COVID patients
Since the onset of the pandemic, nearly 4.3 million children have tested positive for COVID-19.
States requesting federal help to combat latest surge in COVID-19 patients
Several states are requesting or beginning to discuss future asks for federal help in battling their COVID-19 surges, according to a new federal document.
Sean Penn says Covid-19 vaccine should be mandatory
Penn said last month that he would not return to the set of “Gaslit” until the entire cast and crew of the Starz political drama got inoculated.
www.nbcnews.com
As US battles delta variant, tens of thousands of vaccine doses are set to expire
As COVID-19 cases continue to surge, tens of thousands of vaccines are set to expire in the coming weeks, with some states already reporting thousands of "wasted" doses.
Delta variant in kids: What parents should know
ABC News' Dr. Jennifer Ashton breaks down what parents need to know.
Dr. Sanjay Gupta: The term 'breakthrough infection' raises doubts about vaccines -- but it shouldn't
In most cases, a "breakthrough" means a sudden, dramatic or important discovery. With Covid-19, however, the expression has been used to describe an infection that "broke" through the protective immunity of the vaccine -- and this is sometimes misinterpreted as a sign the vaccine is not working.
Nearly 600 patients wait for hospital beds in Houston as city sees surge in COVID cases
The United States is facing a COVID-19 surge this summer as the more contagious delta variant spreads.
Children’s hospitals fill up as delta, virus cases soar
Before a COVID-19 surge, Children’s Hospital New Orleans was operating at full capacity since at least June amid a rise in RSV cases.
thehill.com
Poll: Nearly a third of Trump voters don’t plan to get vaccinated
Americans who voted for former President Trump last year are 10 times more likely than those who cast their ballot for President Biden to say they don’t ever plan to get vaccinated against COV…
thehill.com
Nation's largest teachers union backs vaccine mandates
The decision comes as school officials are battling with parents and governors over mask-wearing requirements and a surge of infections among children.
www.politico.com
DeSantis confronts growing resistance over COVID-19 handling
MELBOURNE BEACH, Fla. — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) is facing growing resistance to his hard-line stance against COVID-19 restrictions and mask mandates. Officials in a handful of Florida sc…
thehill.com
In ‘COVID-Zero’ China, paranoia thrives as tourism withers
As the Delta variant spreads to parts of China, the whole country hunkers down while economic forecasts go south.
School openings so far reveal science is right -- masking works | CNN
As schools start classes across the United States, public health experts warn that the politics around masks could hinder the nation's fight against Covid-19.
Yes, Florida hospitals did request hundreds of ventilators for COVID surge
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Wednesday that it was sending 200 ventilators and 100 nasal breathing machines to Florida, where more than 10,000 people are hospitalized with coronavirus-related illnesses.
Opinion | Why Public Health Experts Aren’t Reaching Conservatives on Covid
Professionally, they barely know any. So here’s a radical proposal: My field needs affirmative action for conservatives, starting now.
www.politico.com
New Zealand Knocked Out The Coronavirus. Now It's Planning To Welcome Back Tourists
The prime minister said the borders would not reopen until after the vaccine rollout is completed at the end of 2021. The country will begin allowing travelers to arrive on a carefully managed basis.
www.npr.org
Why doctors are more worried about Covid than flu when it comes to children
The Covid pandemic has been starkly different than the flu, doctors say. And that was before the delta variant swept through the country.
www.nbcnews.com
EU asking Pfizer, Moderna for more data in study of possible side effects
Europe’s drugs regulator on Wednesday said they are asking Pfizer and Moderna to study more data to assess if three new conditions are possible side effects of the COVID-19 vac…
thehill.com
Pandemic déjà vu: Limits on indoor gatherings, lines at test sites are back
“This entire surge was completely preventable,” one public health expert said.
www.nbcnews.com
Unvaccinated COVID-19 patients share why they changed their minds about the shot
Unvaccinated Americans suffering from COVID-19 share their stories and why they changed their mind about the shot.
HHS joins vaccine trend, orders shots for its health workers
WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal Health and Human Services Department is requiring employees who provide care or services for patients to get their COVID-19 shots, officials announced Thursday. The order from Secretary Xavier Becerra will affect more than 25,000 clinicians, researchers...
apnews.com
VA says 245,000 more workers must get COVID vaccine to keep their jobs
The VA is extending that requirement to cover a wider range of workers and volunteers at VA health facilities.
www.cbsnews.com
In Africa, a second effort to fight a third Covid wave
Vaccine myth takes hold in Romanian village — New approaches to treat snakebites
www.politico.com
Tennessee State University to offer $100 to vaccinated students
Vaccinated students living in on-campus housing will be eligible for an additional $50 gift card, school officials said.
www.nbcnews.com
Schwarzenegger to anti-maskers: ‘Screw your freedom’
Arnold Schwarzenegger has a message for Americans who argue that face masks encroach on their rights: “Screw your freedom.””Because with freedom comes obligations and responsibili…
thehill.com
HHS will require health care workforce to be vaccinated against Covid-19
Covid-19 vaccinations will be required for the more than 25,000 health care staff and volunteers working at the Department of Health and Human Services, Secretary Xavier Becerra announced Thursday.
Experts share best masking tips to protect against COVID-19 delta variant
As the more contagious delta variant sweeps through the country, medical experts have said good masking practices are key to slowing the spread.
From Free Pizza To Free Tuition, Colleges Try Everything To Get Students Vaccinated
U.S. colleges are counting on high COVID-19 vaccination rates to keep their campuses safe this fall. Many are offering flashy prizes to encourage students and faculty to get their shots.
www.npr.org
DA: Landlord in tenant shooting handled eviction 'his way'
A homeowner accused of shooting three tenants, killing two of them, after an argument over unpaid rent at his Las Vegas home told a witness that “he didn’t want to go through the eviction process,” a prosecutor said Wednesday. Arnoldo Lozano-Sanchez “wanted to handle it, quote-unquote, ‘his...
Florida pastor pushes for inoculation after losing 7 congregants to COVID-19
"I believe coming to a trusted place, a safe place ... I think you get a better chance of more people being vaccinated."
Iran facing its deadliest coronavirus surge after banning import on US vaccines
Iranians have criticized the government on social media for banning the importation of western produced vaccines as the country faces its deadliest surge.
Fact check: Candace Owens falsely claims CDC proposed putting high-risk people in camps during the pandemic
Right-wing media figures have reveled in ridiculing the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's response to the pandemic, whether over changing guidance, confusing statements or seeming contradictions.
Republicans take to mask wars as virus surges in red states
WASHINGTON (AP) — Top Republicans are battling school districts in their own states' urban, heavily Democratic areas over whether students should be required to mask up as they head back to school — reigniting ideological divides over mandates even as the latest coronavirus surge ravages the...
apnews.com
Florida hospital becoming overwhelmed by COVID-19 surge
Hospital staff in Florida say they are growing weary.
Texas Gov. Abbott says those who defy order barring mask mandates will ‘be taken to court’
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott vowed on Wednesday to take any school or local government that defies his executive order barring mask mandates “to court” after he challenged and Dallas mask order.
Atlanta-area elementary students move to virtual learning after COVID-19 outbreak
Elementary students at two Atlanta-area schools are temporarily moving to virtual learning due to an increase in COVID-19 cases as districts attempt to bring back in-person instruction amid the spr…
thehill.com
5th graders at Georgia school are sent home due to Covid-19 | CNN
Fifth graders at one suburban Atlanta elementary school were sent home Wednesday for virtual learning due to high numbers of positive Covid-19 cases, according to a school district email sent to parents and obtained by CNN.
Arkansas health care workers overwhelmed by Covid resurgence
A new wave of cases has exhausted doctors and nurses who say the outbreak could have been avoided if more people had been vaccinated.
www.nbcnews.com
Low-risk vaccinated travelers to be allowed in New Zealand without quarantining
Vaccinated travelers coming to New Zealand from low-risk countries could skip quarantine protocols in the country as soon as early next year, the country’s prime minister said on Thursday.New Zeala…
thehill.com
WHO chief warns: 100 million more coronavirus cases possible by early 2022
The head of the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday warned that unless the situation drastically changes for the better, the world will pass 300 million COVID-19 cases by early next year.W…
thehill.com
Houston school district plans to impose mask mandate for students
A district spokesperson said the Board of Education "will show its support for the measure" during a meeting Thursday.
www.nbcnews.com
California first state to require all teachers, school staff to get vaccinated or tested weekly
"Vaccinations are how we will end this pandemic,” said Gov. Gavin Newsom said in announcing the sweeping policy.
www.nbcnews.com
Thousands In Germany Thought They Had Their Vaccine. It May Have Been Saline Instead
More than 8,000 people may have been given a fake COVID vaccine in the spring. A nurse is suspected of making the switch.
www.npr.org
DeSantis faces new resistance over mask rules
“We are going to do whatever we can to vindicate the rights of parents,” DeSantis said.
www.politico.com
Crypto industry seeks to build momentum after losing Senate fight
Cryptocurrency leaders say that even though they failed to change language related to the regulation of their industry in the Senate’s bipartisan infrastructure bill, the heated floor fight o…
thehill.com
Rep. Steve Scalise promotes 'safe and effective' COVID-19 vaccine after getting 2nd shot
The House Republican encouraged residents to get vaccinated, touting the safety and efficacy of the vaccines.
Airlines begin to feel the squeeze of the delta variant
Southwest and Frontier Airlines are starting to brace for the delta variant’s economic impact as infections in the country rise.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
'We will find you': Tennessee parents protest school mask mandate; people in masks heckled
A man was recorded on video following a person to a car, saying, "You'll never be allowed in public again."
www.nbcnews.com
FDA expected to authorize Covid-19 vaccine booster shots for some immunocompromised people within the next 48 hours
The US Food and Drug Administration is expected to announce within the next 48 hours that it is authorizing Covid-19 vaccine booster shots for some people who are immunocompromised, according to a source familiar with the discussions.
Stanford joins list of colleges mandating weekly COVID tests for vaccinated students
Stanford announced that it will require weekly COVID-19 testing for everyone regardless of vaccination status
Australian capital Canberra goes into snap lockdown
The one-week lockdown comes after Canberra recorded its first case of Covid-19 for more than a year.
www.bbc.com
New Zealand borders to remain closed for rest of the year
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said her priority was vaccinating the population by the end of 2021.
www.bbc.com
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