
(AP Photo/J. Scott Apple

WASHINGTON (AP) — Hours after clinching an initial budget victory, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer conceded Wednesday that Democrats face a tough pathway to delivering a package surging $3.5 trillion into family, health and environment programs to President Joe Biden’s desk.

Dems renew push on elections bill that GOP vows to block
Democrats are renewing their push to enact their marquee elections bill. They're pledging to make it the first order of business when the Senate returns in the fall even though they don’t have a clear strategy for overcoming steadfast Republican opposition.


Taliban complete northeast Afghan blitz as more cities fall
Officials says the Taliban seized three more Afghan provincial capitals and a local army headquarters.


House Democrats can get some of Trump’s tax records from accounting firm Mazars USA, judge rules | CNN Politics
The US House should be able to access some of Donald Trump’s tax records through a subpoena to his accounting firm Mazars USA, a federal judge in Washington, DC, ruled on Wednesday.


Senate Republicans force Dems to vote on CRT, fracking, abortion and more in marathon 'vote-a-rama'
Senate Republicans forced Democrats to take tough votes on issues ranging from critical race theory to abortion to fracking during a 14-hour "vote-a-rama" Tuesday and Wednesday as they put up resistance to the budget resolution that opens the door to Democrats passing a $3.5 trillion spending plan.

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.


Rand Paul suspended from YouTube for 7 days after COVID mask claims
The Kentucky Republican said the suspension was a "badge of honor."


GOP prays Sinema and Manchin pare back Dems’ big spending bill
The two moderates may try to slash down their party’s ambitions. But as one Republican put it: “What’s down? $100 million? $1 trillion?”


Democratic divisions emerge on U.S. Senate's $3.5 trillion spending plan
Hours after the U.S. Senate approved a $3.5 trillion budget blueprint chock-full of investments in new domestic programs, fissures emerged between the moderate and liberal wings of the Democratic Party over the size and scope of the spending.

Manchin sends warning shot over ‘serious concerns’ about $3.5T spending plan
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) is sending a warning shot to President Biden and congressional leaders, saying he has “serious concerns” about spending $3.5 trillion on a massive package tha…


Booker, Tuberville spar over measure to ‘defund the police’ in late-night vote-a-rama drama | CNN Politics
Hours into the Senate’s marathon overnight vote-a-rama, Sen. Tommy Tuberville wanted to send a message.


‘This is a gift’: Cory Booker enthusiastically endorses GOP amendment opposing ‘defund the police’ - Washington Examiner
Sen. Cory Booker was "so excited" about a police funding amendment from Sen. Tommy Tuberville on Tuesday night that he wanted to hug him on the Senate floor.After Tuberville, an Alabama Republican, introduced amendment 3113, saying, "Opposing my amendment is a vote in support of defunding the...


Schumer reacts to Manchin's 'serious concerns' about Dems' $3.5T spending plan: 'We have to come together'
Sen. Joe Manchin on Wednesday morning said he has "serious concerns" about his party's massive $3.5 trillion spending plan, signaling that he may intend to block much of the package supported by President Biden over inflation and debt concerns.

Homeland Security officials warn false election claims could lead to violence
The Department of Homeland Security is warning that false claims of election fraud are leading to calls for violence on social media. NBC News' Ken Dilanian reports on why officials are putting local police departments on notice.


Democrats' $3.5T bet on 'human infrastructure' package puts House and Senate on the line: ANALYSIS
Approving trillions in new federal investments on a party-line vote carries considerable political risk for Democrats in what's shaping up to be a hostile midterm year.

Senate Republicans block effort by Democrats to advance voting and election bill | CNN Politics
Senate Republicans blocked an attempt by Democrats to advance their signature voting and elections overhaul bill in the early hours of Wednesday morning.


Afghan leader rallies forces in Taliban-besieged northern city
Meanwhile, the Afghan interior minister says gov’t arming local groups as part of plan to fight back against the Taliban

Dire UN report on warming planet leaves GOP senators cold
GOP lawmakers continued to argue that developing new technological solutions to curb emissions was the proper way to address the problem in the coming decades.


Senate Democrats approve budget resolution, teeing up $3.5T spending plan
Senate Democrats approved a budget resolution early Wednesday morning that will allow them to pass a $3.5 trillion spending plan without GOP support later this year.The Senate voted 50-49 to adopt …


Analysis: Why Cuomo's dinosaur defense rang hollow
Analysis: It wasn't the New York governor or the times that changed so much as what the public knew about his conduct.


McConnell stresses infrastructure’s popularity with GOP after Trump criticism
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) stressed that infrastructure is popular with Democrats as well as Republicans after former President Trump criticized a $1 trillion bip…


Incoming New York governor speaks after Cuomo’s resignation: Live updates | CNN Politics
New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul is holding her first news conference following Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s resignation. Follow here for the latest news.


Biden to host 'summit' to rally democracies over autocrats
President Joe Biden plans to host a virtual ”summit for democracy” in December as he aims to assemble government, civil society and private sector leaders in what he's cast as a global faceoff against rising autocratic forces.


White House to call on OPEC to boost oil production as gasoline prices rise
“The president recognizes that gas prices can put a pinch on the family budget,” a senior White House official said.


Cruz blocks State Department nominees, increasing the backlog of unconfirmed Biden officials
Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, blocked the confirmation of dozens of State Department nominees Wednesday morning in an effort to pressure the Biden administration over Russia's Nord Stream 2 pipeline.

Democrats’ big spending plan faces pushback from centrists and liberals - Washington Examiner
Now that the Senate has approved a $3.5 trillion spending framework, Democrats face the difficult task of writing actual legislation that can win the support of practically every party lawmaker in both chambers. It won’t be easy. Shortly after senators voted 50-49 to approve the budget...


Census data release starts redistricting scramble that could help GOP win House - Washington Examiner
Let the redistricting scramble begin. The Census Bureau on Thursday will release the data used to draw voting districts, setting up a scramble of map-drawing and litigation ahead of the 2022 midterm elections that could influence the balance of power in the House. The release of the detailed...


Senate passes infrastructure bill and budget framework — here's what happens next
The House likely will not pass the bipartisan infrastructure bill or Democrats' spending plan for months.

Democrats warn Republicans against partisan fight over debt limit
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on Wednesday he did not believe Republicans would let the United States default on its debt as the government approaches its borrowing capacity, warning such a lapse would be perilousfor the country.

Warren drops opposition to Biden’s higher education nominee
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer early Wednesday morning filed cloture on the nomination of James Kvaal to be undersecretary of Education.


Afghanistan capital Kabul could fall to Taliban within 90 days, US assesses
The U.S. assesses that the capital of Afghanistan could fall to the Taliban within the next 90 days, two sources familiar with the matter confirmed to Fox News.

‘Price growth is winning the race’: Inflation is devouring wage gains
New data shows inflation jumped again in July, as price hikes overshadow the benefits of wage gains.


Democrats' $3.5T bet on 'human infrastructure' package puts House and Senate on the line: ANALYSIS
Approving trillions in new federal investments on a party-line vote carries considerable political risk for Democrats in what's shaping up to be a hostile midterm year.
Ted Cruz calls for 'zero' covid-19 mandates, while Rand Paul urges defiance amid delta variant surge
WASHINGTON - As a resurgent coronavirus is forcing states to address soaring cases and hospitalizations, Republican Sens. Ted Cruz (Tex.) and Rand Paul (Ky.) denounced health mandates against the virus at a time when the United States recorded its highest single-day number of new cases since...

NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo will resign in two weeks. How will the transition work?
Here's how the process will work.
www.usatoday.com

Afghanistan war: Taliban back brutal rule as they strike for power
Afghanistan's ex-rulers still back brutal punishments, the BBC finds as it goes behind Taliban lines.


What lies ahead for Google in New York court
‘Big Tech’ spends big on advocacy groups — DOJ blasts Realtor group in antitrust suit


John Roberts and the Supreme Court might block anything Democrats do on voting rights | CNN Politics
A key piece of congressional Democrats’ voting rights push faces not only a near-impossible odds of becoming law, but also a daunting court battle in front of a conservative judiciary if it does.


Tropical Storm Fred could hit Florida, perhaps as hurricane, forecasters say
It was approaching the Dominican Republic after just missing Puerto Rico. Forecasters warned its heavy rains could cause dangerous flooding and mudslides.


Watch: New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul speaks for first time since Andrew Cuomo's resignation
New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday will deliver remarks for the first time since Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced his resignation over sexual harassment allegations.
"The president deserves a lot of credit": McConnell praises Biden on infrastructure bill
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) credited President Biden on Tuesday for his role in getting the Senate to pass the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill.Why it matters: It's a rare flash of praise from the Republican leader, who has previously said that 100% of his focus is...

POLITICO Playbook PM: Joe Manchin has a few things on his mind
And Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer sets a deadline for Dems' reconciliation package.


A blistering report, a denial, then a resignation: How will history judge Cuomo?
A new Tappan Zee Bridge? Marriage equality? A $15 minimum wage? Or a 165-page report with salacious details. How will history remember Andrew Cuomo?
www.usatoday.com

Residents In The Pacific Northwest Are Getting Ready For Another Heat Wave
In a "worst-case scenario," the temperature could reach 111 degrees in some parts of western Oregon by Friday. Hundreds of people in the region died in a heat wave earlier this summer.


New Census data to show US diversifying at fastest rate ever
Data to be released Thursday by the Census Bureau is likely to show the U.S. is diversifying at the fastest rate in the nation’s history, even as overall population growth slows to the most sluggis…


Democrats' $3.5T bet on 'human infrastructure' package puts House and Senate on the line: ANALYSIS
Approving trillions in new federal investments on a party-line vote carries considerable political risk for Democrats in what's shaping up to be a hostile midterm year.

Michigan border patrol agents accused of 'routine racial profiling' of Latinos
Speaking Spanish in public and "shockingly arbitrary" traffic stops disproportionately expose Latinos to unfair border patrol scrutiny, according to the ACLU of Michigan.


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.


Senate approves $3.5T budget plan that would expand health care, education and climate initiatives
Congressional approval of the resolution is a crucial first step by Democrats toward enacting President Joe Biden's domestic agenda.

Biden nominations for key diplomatic posts stalled in Congress, victims of GOP protest
Ted Cruz, other GOP senators hold up Biden nominees for State and Homeland Security, trying to press the administration on a Russia pipeline and more.
Senate Democrats advance $3.5 trillion spending package without any Republican support
Biden may struggle keeping Democrats in lockstep to pass the plan, given early criticisms leveled by Sens. Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema.

Navalny facing new charges in Russia
Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny is facing new criminal charges in connection with his foundation. The Investigative Committee of Russia announced that he is charged with establishing a non…


Minneapolis DFL chair calls burning of police precinct 'revolutionary moment,' 'act of pure righteousness'
The chair of the Minneapolis Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party is defending a recent op-ed in which he argued that rioters' burning of the Minneapolis Police Department's Third Precinct headquarters last year was an "act of pure righteousness" in their minds and a "genuine revolutionary moment."

Cuomo's successor vows no toxic work climate in New York government
New York Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul on Wednesday distanced herself from Governor Andrew Cuomo who resigned after sexual harassment accusations, saying when she takes over no official who had behaved unethically would keep their job.

Sweeping conquests test US hopes of more moderate Taliban
Sweeping Taliban conquests in Afghanistan are challenging the Biden administration’s hopes that a desire for international legitimacy will moderate the Taliban's worst behavior.


Read: Judge’s ruling on House Democrats’ request for Trump’s financial records | CNN Politics
The US House should be able to access some of Donald Trump’s tax records through a subpoena to his accounting firm Mazars USA, District Judge Amit Mehta ruled Wednesday.


Senate approves 'blueprint' for $3.5T plan that includes money for education, environment, child care
The Senate, after hours of debate, passed a resolution along party lines that gives committees in Congress instructions to begin crafting the bill.
www.usatoday.com

US granted more grounds to appeal on Assange extradition
Britain’s High Court has granted U.S. authorities permission to expand their grounds for appealing an earlier U.K. court decision to block the extradition of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, where he is wanted on espionage charges.


Afghanistan’s interior minister reveals plan to push back Taliban
Afghan interior minister says the gov’t is arming local groups as part of a plan to push back the Taliban offensive.

Tropical Storm Fred: Sixth Atlantic storm hints at above-average hurricane season
Meteorologists have named the sixth Atlantic storm of 2021, hinting at an above-average season.


Secretary of state races emerge as America’s newest political flashpoint | CNN Politics
Republicans and Democrats are gearing up for expensive battles to influence a crop of contests next year that often go unnoticed: secretary of state races.


Germany arrests British Embassy worker on suspicion of spying for Russia - Washington Examiner
A British Embassy worker in Berlin was arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of being a spy after prosecutors accused him of passing documents to Moscow, according to a statement.German prosecutors identified the suspect as 57-year-old David S., who was arrested by police on the suspicion that he...


Biden ATF nominee Chipman accused of racial bias for claiming Black ATF agent cheated on exam
President Biden's embattled ATF nominee David Chipman is once again under fire, this time from a Black former ATF agent who is accusing him of racial bias for falsely claiming he cheated on a promotion exam.

Senate passes Cotton’s amendment preventing federal funding of critical race theory - Washington Examiner
The Senate passed an amendment preventing critical race theory in school curricula from being funded by federal dollars. Sen. Tom Cotton, an Arkansas Republican, put forth the legislation as part of the $3.5 trillion budget resolution that passed Wednesday. Though the amendment passed with a...


34 states face heat advisories as Pacific Northwest endures 6th heat wave of summer
The heat in the West continues to fuel the more than 100 large wildfires across the region, with California's Dixie Fire growing to half a million acres.


Here’s what’s in the Senate version of the Democrats’ $3.5 trillion spending plan | CNN Politics
Senate Democrats released their sweeping $3.5 trillion budget resolution on Monday, August 9 – the latest step in their drive to expand education, health care and child care support, tackle the climate crisis and make further investments in infrastructure.


Judge orders accounting firm to give House panel some of Trump’s tax records
A federal judge on Wednesday narrowed a House subpoena for former President Trump’s personal financial records, ruling that the congressional inquiry was overly intrusive but may proceed with…


Hochul: NY gov's office won't be toxic workplace on my watch
New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul is pledging to set a better tone in state government after the sexual harassment scandal that spurred Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s resignation.

Timeline: The Taliban's rapid advance across Afghanistan
Other deadly attacks occurred, some blamed on the Taliban and some on other jihadist groups including an offshoot of Islamic State. Talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government on a political understanding that could lead to a peace deal, backed by the United States and its allies, have...

Ethiopia armed group says it has alliance with Tigray forces
A militant leader in Ethiopia says his group has struck a military alliance with the Tigray forces now pressing toward the capital, as the conflict that erupted in the Tigray region last year spreads into other parts of Africa’s second most populous country.


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.


As Democrats look to cut their spending bill, here's a reminder of where they started
The party laid out bold priorities this summer, including major investments in climate initiatives, health care and the child tax credit. But it's become clear that some cuts will have to happen.


SEC chief tells Warren agency should have more authority to regulate crypto - Washington Examiner
The head of the Securities and Exchange Commission told Sen. Elizabeth Warren that the cryptocurrency realm needs further regulation and that Congress should give the agency a corresponding rule-making authority. SEC Chairman Gary Gensler told Warren, a Massachusetts Democrat, in a letter...


ICE to avoid arrest and deportation of undocumented victims of crime | CNN Politics
Immigration and Customs Enforcement will avoid arresting or deporting undocumented immigrants who are victims of crime, except in exceptional circumstances, according to a new directive.


Hyperloop technology gets huge boost in newly passed infrastructure bill
The bill includes provisions to hyperloop projects in the U.S.


What's Cuomo waiting for? 'You don't need two weeks notice to resign,' says former US attorney
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced his resignation on Tuesday, but he is not going anywhere just yet, as he gave himself 14 days before his departure from office becomes effective.
Rudy Giuliani sells personalized video messages on Cameo for $199: ‘It can be arranged’
Staunch Trump ally facing multi-million dollar defamation lawsuit related to his attempts to undermine the US presidential elections ‘Hi. It’s Rudy Giuliani and I’m on Cameo.’ Photograph: Jacquelyn Martin/AP Rudy Giuliani, the staunch ally of Donald Trump who is facing a multi-million dollar...

Huge California fire grows; Montana blaze threatens towns
California’s largest single wildfire in recorded history continued to grow after destroying more than 1,000 buildings, nearly half of them homes, while authorities in Montana ordered evacuations as a wind-driven blaze roared toward several remote communities.


Wildland firefighters could get $20,000 raise from infrastructure bill
Federal wildland firefighters, who currently make as little as $13.45 an hour, could get a long-awaited pay raise if the bipartisan infrastructure package making its way through Congress eventually gets to President Joe Biden's desk.

Inflation: US consumers prices keep climbing, but more slowly
Americans continue to spend more for food, energy and new vehicles last month as prices keep climbing.

Pelosi says Newsom recall is 'not good for children and other living things'
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi declared Tuesday that California Gov. Gavin Newsom is a "great governor" and that his possible recall would not be good for "children or other living things."

Cory Booker giddy as Democrats vote against 'defund the police': GOP senator 'has given us the gift'
Sen. Cory Booker wanted to "hug" GOP Sen. Tommy Tuberville for putting to rest "scurrilous" accusations that Senate Democrats want to defund the police.
Senate confirms Ken Salazar as U.S. ambassador to Mexico
The Senate early Wednesday morning unanimously confirmed former Sen. Ken Salazar as U.S. ambassador to Mexico.Why it matters: Salazar is President Biden's first ambassador pick to be confirmed.Stay on top of the latest market trends and economic insights with Axios Markets. Subscribe for freeHe...

Google may cut pay of staff who work from home
The tech giant has developed a calculator that lets staff see the effects of remote working.


Olivia Podmore, New Zealand Olympic cyclist, dies at age 24: "She left us a message"
Concerns for Podmore first arose after she posted a message on social media.


Henley Royal Regatta dress code allows women to wear trousers
Henley Royal Regatta changes its rules for the Steward's Enclosure for the first time in decades.


Top Dem sees tough pathway for $3.5T social, climate plans
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is conceding that Democrats face a tough pathway to delivering a $3.5 trillion package for family, health and environment programs to President Joe Biden’s desk.

Texas GOP state House speaker signs warrants to arrest 52 Democrats
The Texas House Speaker signed late Tuesday civil arrest warrants for 52 Democratic lawmakers who fled the state last month to block a GOP effort to pass voting restrictions, per the Dallas Morning News.Driving the news: The GOP-led Texas House of Representatives voted 80-12 in favor of the...

For Biden and senators, a sense that 'world was watching'
President Joe Biden set out to build back more than roads and bridges in his big infrastructure bill.


Senate "vote-a-rama" on $3.5 trillion infrastructure resolution stretches into wee hours
Expected passage of massive package would pave way for consideration of Democrats' ambitious human services spending proposal. But Republicans were floating one amendment after another.


46 GOP senators warn they will not vote to raise debt ceiling
Forty-six GOP senators are warning that they will not vote to raise the debt ceiling as Republicans ramp up pressure on Democrats to increase the nation’s borrowing limit on their own.


Sweeping conquests test US hopes of more moderate Taliban
Sweeping Taliban conquests in Afghanistan are challenging the Biden administration’s hopes that a desire for international legitimacy will moderate the Taliban's worst behavior.

Dominion lawyer says the voting technology company is 'still exploring' whether to sue Trump over election lies
Former President Donald Trump has falsely claimed Dominion software is responsible for his loss in the 2020 election.

In defiance of Trump, more than one-third of Senate GOP backs infrastructure bill
Nineteen Republicans backed the bipartisan package, advancing a centerpiece of President Joe Biden's agenda.


Senate Judiciary chairman wants to interview former Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows | CNN Politics
The Trump White House is facing increased scrutiny on Capitol Hill as a powerful committee chairman wants to interview then-President Donald Trump’s former chief of staff to determine the extent of the pressure the Justice Department faced to try to overturn Joe Biden’s victory.


Chris Cuomo advised his brother to resign: report
CNN anchor Chris Cuomo advised his older brother, outgoing New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D), to resign, The New York Times reported on Tuesday.Two people familiar with the matter told the Times that …


Hochul: NY gov's office won't be toxic workplace on my watch
New York Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul is pledging to set a better tone in state government after the sexual harassment scandal that spurred Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s resignation.


Andrew Cuomo is resigning - but criminal probes could still move forward
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo gave himself two weeks left in office after announcing his resignation amid a sexual harassment scandal involving allegations from 11 different women – but there may still be criminal consequences.

Biden's personal touch and GOP retirements: How the bipartisan infrastructure bill beat the odds
President Joe Biden's decades of experience in the Senate and his faith in compromise were rewarded when the infrastructure bill passed the Senate.

Wyoming GOP leaders say they no longer recognize Cheney as party member
The GOP groups of two Wyoming counties have both voted to no longer recognize Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) as a member of the Republican Party, the latest moves against the congresswoman months after s…


Heat wave hits Northwest, sending people to cooling centers
People have headed to cooling centers as the Pacific Northwest began sweltering under another major, multiday heat wave.


Nearly 900 buildings destroyed by massive California fire
California’s largest single wildfire in recorded history is running through forestlands as fire crews try to protect rural communities from flames that have destroyed hundreds of homes

White House seeks to reassure Democrats anxious over inflation concerns in Biden’s agenda | CNN Politics
A top economic aide to President Joe Biden moved to reassure moderate Democratic that the new $3.5 trillion budget bill would not fuel long-term inflation as they begin pivoting toward the next obstacle to the administration’s economic agenda.


Afghanistan war: Biden says he does not regret troop withdrawal
The US president urges Afghan leaders to fight for their nation, as more cities fall to the Taliban.


Dems renew push on elections bill that GOP vows to block
Democrats are renewing their push to enact their marquee elections bill. They're pledging to make it the first order of business when the Senate returns in the fall even though they don’t have a clear strategy for overcoming steadfast Republican opposition.


Biden says apart from personal behavior, Cuomo did a "hell of a job" as governor
President Biden said Cuomo had done a good job on infrastructure and voting rights issues.


Biden nominee would be first Black man to hold top federal prosecutor job in Manhattan
Damian Williams, who oversees a securities task force in the U.S. attorney's office, previously prosecuted former Rep. Christopher Collins.


Senate Democrats try to defuse GOP budget drama
Senate Democrats are trying to defuse political grenades that Republicans are lobbing during an hours-long budget fight.


ICE emails show how agency chief halted deportation after 'Abolish ICE' activist's request
EXCLUSIVE: Internal emails from the top levels of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), obtained by Fox News, show how the acting head of the agency granted a temporary stay of deportation earlier this year for an illegal immigrant with a criminal record – following a request from a...

Prince Andrew can't ignore courts, says Virginia Giuffre's lawyer
Virginia Giuffre's lawyer says litigation is the only way to establish the Duke of York's evidence.


Climate Change Is Raising Wildfire Risk Across The U.S.
There's a forgotten history that should serve as a warning — wildfire isn’t unique to the West. Now the warming climate is increasing the risk of major wildfires across America. And more people are moving to fire-prone areas without realizing the danger.

Texas House Speaker signs civil arrest warrants to return absent Democrats to chamber
House Speaker Dade Phelan on Tuesday signed 52 civil arrest warrants for Democrats who left the state in July and continue to deny the body a quorum.
www.usatoday.com

Texas hold ’em: Biden aides push Cruz to lift ‘death grip’ on nominees
The Republican, upset about Nord Stream 2, is blocking State Department candidates en masse.


Warren introduces bill to target corporate profits
Crypto fight pivots to the House — Retailers file amicus brief in China tariff suits


Biden says he respects Cuomo’s decision to resign, but praises his record on policy | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden said Tuesday that he respects New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s decision to resign after the President called on Cuomo to step down last week following an official report that said Cuomo sexually harassed multiple women.


Pressure mounts on holdouts as Texas House speaker signs civil arrest warrants for 52 Democrats
“People aren't going to jail, but they got to come back to work,” one GOP lawmaker said as legal threat, other setbacks put the protest on unsteady ground.


Cuomo accusers react to governor's resignation
"They wanted to make sure no other women endured the same."

Taliban complete northeast Afghan blitz as more cities fall
Officials says the Taliban seized three more Afghan provincial capitals and a local army headquarters.


Opinion | The Eviction Moratorium Won’t Save Renters — or Landlords
Rent bills are piling up. Landlords can’t pay the mortgage. We need a long-term solution to stabilize the rental market. Fast.


House Democrats will cut August recess short to vote on $3.5 trillion budget - Washington Examiner
The House will cut its traditional August recess short to vote on a $3.5 trillion budget framework the Senate is poised to pass this week. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer told lawmakers in a memo Tuesday they must return the week of Aug. 23, nearly a month earlier than planned, to "consider...


Senate gives Biden big bipartisan win
The Senate on Tuesday handed President Biden a long-sought bipartisan victory by passing a $1 trillion infrastructure bill that won the support of 19 Republicans and the entire Democratic caucus.Th…


Newsom urged to take action against Oakland crime spike: Community ‘under attack’
Outraged and frightened over a recent spike in violent crime, community leaders in Oakland, California, on Tuesday called for more action from Gov. Gavin Newsom.

With Cuomo out, Kathy Hochul will become New York's first female governor
Hochul might not be a household name, but she is no newcomer to politics.


NY Times tech workers plan walkout amid union fight
Tech workers at The New York Times are planning a walkout on Wednesday in protest of what they see as the news company’s attempts to hinder their unionization efforts.”As tech work…


Biden says Afghans must 'fight for themselves' as Taliban advances, does not regret U.S. withdrawal
President Joe Biden called on Afghans to "fight for their nation" as the Taliban makes rapid advances on the battlefield, seizing provincial capitals.

Navies of 21 countries kick off US-led drills in Southeast Asia
SEACAT exercises under way in Singapore and virtually as Beijing and Moscow also hold drills in China’s Ningxia.

Analysis: This governor had some harsh words for those who continue to question the 2020 election results
As Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers struck down six Republican-backed measures that he said would have made it harder for residents to vote, the Democrat had a sharp message for those who continue to undermine the 2020 election results:


Fleeing fighting in north, Afghans crowd into Kabul's parks
“If the government cannot do anything, it should just stop the bombardment and let the Taliban rule.”


Federal judge rules against several Indiana abortion laws
A federal judge has ruled that several of Indiana’s laws restricting abortion are unconstitutional, including the state’s ban on telemedicine consultations between doctors and women seeking abortions

Wisconsin governor vetoes GOP bills to restrict absentees
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has vetoed bills passed by the state’s Republican-controlled Legislature that would have imposed new restrictions on absentee ballots in the key battleground state

More pressure on Texas Democrats as GOP moves to end holdout
Texas Republicans have again authorized using law enforcement to find Democrats who are still refusing to come back to the state Capitol in a bid to stop new voting restrictions.


Brazil's Bolsonaro loses his bid to reform voting system
Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has suffered a major defeat in Congress when Brazilian lawmakers rejected a proposal to require printed receipts at some electronic ballot boxes.


Afghan leader rallies forces in Taliban-besieged northern city
Meanwhile, the Afghan interior minister says gov’t arming local groups as part of plan to fight back against the Taliban

'Hurt' Andrew Cuomo addresses daughters as he quits
The New York governor steps down amid allegations he sexually harassed multiple women.


What's inside the Senate's bipartisan infrastructure bill
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has passed a nearly $1 trillion bipartisan plan to rebuild roads and bridges, modernize public works systems and boost broadband internet, among other improvements to the nation's infrastructure.


Brazil’s Congress rejects voting changes amid Bolsonaro pressure
President’s proposal to switch to paper ballots falls short of majority needed for constitutional change.

Prince Andrew faces no good choice in Epstein accuser case
Britain’s Prince Andrew is likely to do anything he can to avoid giving evidence in a U.S. lawsuit filed by an American woman who alleges that he sexually assaulted her when she was 17, lawyers on both sides of the Atlantic say.


What’s next for disgraced New York Governor Andrew Cuomo?
Outgoing governor faces legal, political challenges following his resignation in face of sexual harassment allegations.
Biden picks Damian Williams to lead powerful Manhattan U.S. attorney's office
President Biden nominated Damian Williams to be the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, among a slate of names he picked to some of the nation's most powerful law enforcement posts Tuesday.Why it matters: Williams would be the first Black person to land one of the most coveted...

Wagner: Scale of Russian mercenary mission in Libya exposed
A Samsung tablet obtained by the BBC unveils chilling details of how mercenaries fought in Libya’s war.


Serenade Foods recalls frozen chicken products due to possible salmonella contamination
59,251 pounds of frozen, raw, breaded and pre-browned stuffed chicken products are being recalled.

'Ticking time bomb': PFAS chemicals in drinking water alarm scientists over health risks
Greater detection of toxic PFAS chemicals in drinking water systems nationwide has alarmed state and local leaders and prompted Congress to seek urgent action from EPA.

Biden makes selection for his top Supreme Court lawyer
President Joe Biden has nominated acting Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar to be his administration’s top Supreme Court lawyer on a permanent basis.


Vacation interrupted: Biden's getaway plans shift by the day
President Joe Biden’s vacation plans, like those of so many Americans during this national summer of uncertainty, keep changing.


Tenn. Nissan plant to close for 2 weeks due to chip shortage
Nissan says its huge factory in Smyrna, Tennessee, will close for two weeks starting Monday

‘Zero empathy’ Suga battles for job after Japan’s Olympic success
Anger over COVID-19 and prime minister’s determination to hold event despite opposition weigh on election chances.

Rudy Giuliani joins Cameo
Rudy Giuliani has joined Cameo, the online service that allows users to purchase customized videos from participating celebrities.“Hi. It’s Rudy Giuliani, and I’m on Cameo,” Giulian…

Wisconsin Dem Ron Kind announces he will not run for reelection
Kind is the third House Democrat in a competitive seat to either retire or launch a campaign for a different office.

MSNBC’s Chuck Todd suggests Andrew Cuomo can make political comeback after resignation - Washington Examiner
MSNBC's Chuck Todd weighed in on New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's resignation Tuesday, saying the disgraced governor could make a political comeback after the dust settles on his alleged sexual misconduct. Speculating the Democrat's resignation was a defensive move against his critics and an attempt...


'River Dave' doesn't think he can go back to being a hermit
An off-the-grid New Hampshire hermit known as “River Dave” says he doesn’t think he can return to his lifestyle.


Alleged abuses linked to China’s ‘Belt and Road’ projects: report
Almost a third of alleged abuses took place in Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Indonesia.

Texas state Democrats don’t have much to show for their DC jaunt - Washington Examiner
Texas state House Democrats who fled the state to Washington, D.C., to block a Republican election reform bill during a special legislative session have few victories to show for their weekslong awareness campaign. Instead of convincing the Senate to pass the For the People Act or other voting...


The Tragedy of the Cuomos
The ultra-talented political clan built a fortress of power but never quite crashed the American establishment—and their insularity ultimately brought them down.


Former US Attorney Preet Bharara wonders if ‘mischief’ afoot in Andrew Cuomo waiting 14 days to resign - Washington Examiner
A former federal prosecutor said he was surprised New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who faces allegations of sexual harassment, intends to wait two weeks to resign and hopes there is nothing "nefarious" in the works.Preet Bharara, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York from 2009-2017...


As Senate debates Dems' $3.5T budget, GOP launches attacks
Democrats have started pushing their $3.5 trillion framework for bolstering family services, health, and environment programs through the Senate.


Family of man allegedly killed over loud music by security guard asks for justice
Ben Crump called on the Shelby County DA and Kroger to take responsibility.

Princess Latifa: Campaign to free Dubai ruler's daughter disbanded
The Dubai ruler's daughter was pictured in Iceland after accusing her father of keeping her captive.


Stevie Nicks cancels all 2021 performances over coronavirus
Stevie Nicks has canceled five forthcoming performances at music festivals, citing coronavirus concerns

Arizona Democratic lawmaker accused of child molestation resigns post - Washington Examiner
A Democratic Arizona state lawmaker stepped down from his post on Tuesday, five days after being arrested on charges of allegedly engaging in sex with a minor. State Sen. Tony Navarrete resigned "effective immediately," according to copies of his resignation letter shared by local reporters...


Christina Applegate reveals she has multiple sclerosis
Emmy Award-winner Christina Applegate has announced that she has multiple sclerosis, describing her diagnosis as a “tough road.”


Poland’s prime minister fires deputy as ruling coalition crumbles
Junior partner Accord’s criticisms of tax reforms seem to have brought matters to a head within United Right coalition.


Nearly 600 patients wait for hospital beds in Houston following surge in COVID cases
The United States is facing a COVID-19 surge this summer as the more contagious delta variant spreads.

CDC urges COVID vaccines during pregnancy as delta surges
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging all pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19.


East Texas hospitals struggling without safety net during latest COVID surge
Even as cases and hospitalizations soar, Texas' vaccination rate trails the national average.

Mask mandate debate heats up in Florida as more children are being hospitalized with COVID
Florida leads the nation in pediatric hospitalizations, with more than 300 reported in the last week.


Psaki takes aim at DeSantis over Florida ventilator request
White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Wednesday questioned why Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) would be opposed to receiving ventilators given the COVID-19 rise in his state.


COVID-19 transmission among the fully vaccinated is rare, but possible, experts say. Here's why.
A fully vaccinated person who gets COVID-19 won’t be contagious for long, experts say, and may not have the chance to transmit the virus to others.
www.usatoday.com

California becomes first state to order teachers to get COVID vaccine or test
California on Wednesday became the first U.S. state to require that its teachers and other school staff be vaccinated or regularly tested for COVID-19, a move Governor Gavin Newsom called "a responsible step" to ensure the safety of children.

As new COVID variants emerge, is herd immunity impossible?
Maximum protection through vaccines, rather than herd immunity, is a more realistic option when it comes to COVID-19.

‘He still doesn’t trust Donald Trump’: White House dismisses claims Biden contributed to vaccine hesitancy - Washington Examiner
The White House denied that President Joe Biden contributed to vaccine hesitancy as his administration grapples with stagnated vaccination rates against the coronavirus.Biden's comment that he did not trust President Donald Trump during last year's campaign did not exacerbate the problem...


WHO to study three possible COVID-19 treatments
The World Health Organization on Wednesday announced its plan to study three potential treatments for COVID-19 patients in its existing trial that spans across 52 countries.

White House: Getting vaccinated against COVID "most important" step in hurricane preparedness
The "most important" step Americans should take to prepare for peak hurricane season is to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in case they have to evacuate, the White House said Tuesday.Why it matters: The statement followed President Biden's meeting on hurricane preparedness with senior FEMA...

Poll: Majorities support vaccine, mask mandates — but not Republicans
The new POLITICO/Morning Consult poll shows GOP voters shunning broadly popular measures to control the spread of the virus, which is spiking across the country.


Federal government sends ventilators to Florida as DeSantis says he’s unaware of shipment | CNN Politics
The Biden administration sent hundreds of ventilators to Florida in recent days as the state responds to a dramatic new increase in Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations, an official from the Department of Health and Human Services confirmed to CNN. But Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis claims he’s...


Delta spreads, Southwest no longer sees profit for quarter
Southwest Airlines says it may not be profitable in its third quarter and now foresees operating revenue for the period coming in lower than previously expected as it deals with rising concerns over increasing COVID-19 cases

Study showing antibody levels protecting against COVID-19 could speed creation of new vaccines, boosters
New research pinpoints antibodies scientists can test for to see if a COVID-19 vaccine is effective and could speed the development of new vaccines.
www.usatoday.com

Masks are back in high demand: "We can't keep them on shelves longer than a day"
Some mask makers were caught flat-footed when orders soared at the end of July, especially from Delta variant hotspots.


U.S. pandemic summer school meal program has served millions, but its future uncertain
On a warm July morning, James Terry stepped out of his home garage, where he manages his Benton Harbor, Michigan-based auto detailing business, and paused work to pick up groceries, with his 7-year-old son in tow.

Macron pushes vaccinations, saying virus ‘is not behind us’
French President Emmanuel Macron is pushing for vaccinations as coronavirus cases continue to go up in France and overseas territories.“The health crisis is not behind us, very clearly. … We …


Fictitious Swiss scientist entangles China’s state media
Chinese state media outlets scrub quotes about the pandemic after Switzerland says person does not exist..

Hawaii resurrects COVID-19 restrictions due to fear of delta variant - Washington Examiner
Hawaii is reintroducing restrictions on social gatherings in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 amid concerns over the highly transmissible delta variant. Democratic Gov. David Ige announced the tightened restrictions Tuesday, stating that he would be signing an executive order, effective...


Florida investigating school districts that defied ban on mask mandates
One district reversed course after threats from state officials.

Asian Americans have high vaccine rates, but it hasn’t come easy, nonprofit groups say
“Most of our seniors had no resources to do that. It has to be the strong work of community-based organizations," one nonprofit group leader said.


Parents surround health workers advocating for masks in schools: ‘We know who you are’
A group of parents in Tennessee surrounded health care professionals outside of a school board meeting on Tuesday, after they advocated for a mask mandate in the local school district, the Ten…


Kids do not need N95, KN95 masks at school amid COVID-19 surge, experts say
Two pediatric experts break down what parents need to know amid the Delta variant.

New vaccinations have nearly doubled from last month, according to CDC data
The country was averaging around 441,198 new vaccinations per day as of August 5, a 95% increase from July 5.

White House escalates battle with Republican governors over masking in schools
The Biden administration said Tuesday that school districts across the nation should follow federal masking guidelines, even if that means resisting Republican governors who have enacted measures prohibiting districts from establishing mask mandates.

Alarming CDC report says new tropical disease had killed two in US
Melioidosis, a bacterial infection, is normally found in tropical regions.


In Iran, slow vaccinations fuel anger in unending pandemic
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranians are suffering through yet another surge in the coronavirus pandemic — their country's worst yet — and anger is growing at images of vaccinated Westerners without face masks on the internet or on TV while they remain unable to get the shots.


Florida school board votes to keep mask mandate, defying DeSantis
The Broward County School Board on Tuesday voted 8-1 to retain its mask mandate for students and staff members, defying Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s (R) executive order for…


GOP governors divided over response to COVID-19 surge
Republican governors are increasingly split over how to respond to the latest coronavirus surge as the delta variant wreaks havoc on parts of the country.While Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) and Tex…


Sky News Australia removes Covid misinformation clips
The Rupert Murdoch-owned TV channel was recently banned for a week by YouTube.


Oregon reinstates indoor mask mandate, will require some state employees to get vaccinated
Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said Tuesday that she will re-implement a statewide indoor mask mandate for all residents regardless of their vaccination status as part of a new effort to combat a surge in COVID-19 cases.

Biden: Republican governors’ actions to oppose masks in school are ‘a little disingenuous’
Tensions between the president and GOP governors like Ron DeSantis of Florida have been ramping up as children head back to school.


Texas judge grants temporary restraining order against Abbott’s school mask mandate ban
A Texas judge on Tuesday approved a temporary restraining order preventing the enforcement of Gov. Greg Abbott’s (R) ban on mask mandates in schools, just hours after leaders from San Antonio and B…


Pentagon releases religious exemption guidelines for bypassing mandatory vaccine
The Pentagon on Tuesday released guidelines for how service members could request a religious exemption in lieu of getting the coronavirus vaccine.

Facebook removes anti-vax influencer campaign
Facebook has removed hundreds of accounts linked to a anti-vaccine campaign operated from Russia.


Texas to bring out-of-state healthcare providers to help overwhelmed hospitals - Washington Examiner
The Texas government will contract with out-of-state healthcare workers to cope with the fourth wave of the pandemic threatening to overwhelm major hospital systems. “This help could not come fast enough,” Ted Shaw, CEO of the Texas Hospital Association, said on Tuesday. “We look forward to a...


Covid vaccine: Fertility and miscarriage claims fact-checked
Posts claiming Covid vaccines cause miscarriages are not supported by scientific evidence.

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