
Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, the lead GOP negotiator on the infrastructure talks, emerges from the office of Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell... (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans reached a deal with Democrats on Wednesday over major outstanding issues in a $1 trillion infrastructure package, ready to begin consideration of a key part of President Joe Biden’s agenda. An evening test vote was possible.

Pelosi calls GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy a "moron" for criticizing mask mandate
The House GOP leader had claimed mask-wearing in the House was not based in science.


Appeals court deals setback to Trump in fraud suit
Federal judges rejected the former president’s effort to force arbitration in a case alleging misleading marketing for the business services firm ACN.


US acting to better protect infrastructure from cyberthreats
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is taking steps to harden cybersecurity defenses for critical infrastructure, announcing on Wednesday the development of performance goals and a voluntary public-private partnership to protect core sectors.


Sinema says she opposes $3.5T price tag for spending bill
Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) said Wednesday that she does not support the $3.5 trillion price tag for a sweeping spending package at the center of President Biden’s legislative agenda.Sinema, in a…


Biden backs embattled democracy movement in Belarus
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden spoke out for embattled pro-democracy forces in Belarus on Wednesday in a White House meeting with that country's main opposition leader. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who was forced to leave Belarus after unsuccessfully challenging President Alexander...


Trump’s rough day hints at limits of his power over GOP
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.


Texas governor orders National Guard to arrest migrants
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) on Tuesday ordered the National Guard to help local law enforcement with arresting migrants as the state continues to see an influx of people crossing the southern border…


Texas loss alarms Trump advisers worried about party clout
Trump's chosen candidate lost to another Republican in Tuesday's Texas House election. Now, his advisers are concerned about an Ohio race up next week.


Republican governors revolt against CDC mask guidance
Republican governors are rejecting new mask recommendations the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued Tuesday, casting the health guidance as a step back amid a push to vaccinate millio…


Fed's Powell downplays delta variant's threat to the economy
WASHINGTON (AP) — The spread of the COVID-19 delta variant is raising infections, leading some companies and governments to require vaccinations and raising concerns about the U.S. economic recovery.

Republicans Are Blaming Pelosi for Jan. 6 Attack. Their Claims Don't Add Up.
For months, Republican leaders have downplayed the Jan. 6 assault on the Capitol by a pro-Trump mob. But on Tuesday, ahead of the first hearing of a special committee to investigate the riot, they took their approach to new and misleading extremes, falsely blaming Speaker Nancy Pelosi for the...

Elizabeth Warren makes fresh push for wealth tax – 'Yes, Jeff Bezos, I'm looking at you'
Sen. Elizabeth Warren reignited her push for a tax on the accumulated wealth of the richest Americans by pointing at the Amazon founder.

Congressional Democrats at odds over President Biden's power to cancel student loan debt
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says Congress needs to pass legislation, a day after Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer advocated forgiveness from the president's pen.


US ramps up pressure on Poland over Holocaust restitution
WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States is ramping up pressure on Poland in hopes of stopping legislation that would prevent families from receiving restitution for property seized during the Holocaust and communist era.


Elise Stefanik Calls Liz Cheney a 'Pelosi Pawn'
Rep. Elise Stefanik called fellow Republican House member Liz Cheney a “Pelosi pawn” after Cheney criticized Stefanik for saying House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is to blame for the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

US, Russia hold 'professional' arms talks despite tensions
WASHINGTON (AP) — Senior diplomats from the United States and Russia held what the State Department described as “substantive and professional” talks on arms control and other strategic issues on Wednesday despite myriad other differences that have sent relations into a tailspin.


Justice Department puts states on notice about post-election audits and election law changes
The Justice Department on Wednesday put states and local officials on notice of their federal obligations when conducting post-election audits and dictating the rules for casting ballots.


Report: Hate crime laws lack uniformity across the US
NEW YORK (AP) — More than half a century since they were modernized, hate crime laws in the U.S. are inconsistent and provide incomplete methods for addressing bias-motivated violence, according to a new report by advocates for better protections.


Blinken calls US-India relationship ‘vital’ during official visit
Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday called the relationship between the U.S. and India “vital” during his visit with officials in New Delhi.The secretary also reinforced cooperation betw…


Migrant children in U.S. tent camp faced depression and filthy conditions, whistleblowers say
Migrant children housed at the Fort Bliss tent camp "felt like they were in prison and often begged 'please get me out of here, I don't know if I can take it anymore,'" according to a new whistleblower complaint.


Analysis: Trump and DeSantis choose politics over science as mask wars roar back to life
A new political war over masks is already deepening the national divides that slowed vaccinations and thwarted what once seemed an imminent victory over the coronavirus pandemic.


What defeat of Trump-backed candidate in all-GOP special House runoff election in Texas means
Is the victory by Jake Ellzey over Susan Wright – who enjoyed the former president's backing – in Tuesday's runoff for Texas' 6th District a sign that Trump's clout over the GOP is waning?

Trump’s rough day hints at limits of his power over GOP
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.


Senate negotiators reach deal on $2 billion Capitol security funding bill in wake of January 6 insurrection | CNN Politics
The top Democrat and Republican on the Senate Appropriations Committee have reached a deal on a roughly $2 billion Capitol Hill security spending bill in response to the deadly January 6 insurrection.

Supreme Court approval dips with Democrats, Republicans equally unhappy, poll finds
Approval of the Supreme Court dropped to 49%, according to a Gallup poll. That comes amid a broader debate about structural changes to the high court.
www.usatoday.com

POLITICO Playbook PM: This is a BIF effing deal
And Donald Trump meets with would-be Liz Cheney challengers.


D.C. police officer Michael Fanone gets vulgar, threatening voicemail during January 6 testimony
The voicemail was left minutes after Fanone delivered emotional testimony criticizing those who have attempted to downplay the January 6 assault.


Biden woos working class with new 'buy American' efforts
MACUNGIE, Pa. (AP) — President Joe Biden checked out the big rigs at a Pennsylvania truck factory on Wednesday and promised workers that his policies would reshape the U.S economy for the working class — a message clearly aimed at a group of voters who have drifted to Republicans.


Pelosi's office calls GOP leader McCarthy 'moronic' for objecting to House mask mandate
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that the House will adhere to the mask mandate recommended by the Capitol Physician's office, and called House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy a "moron" for opposing the mandate.

Opinion | What’s Behind the Conservative Rift on the Supreme Court
Many court watchers are still paying attention only to how liberal or conservative the justices are. But there’s another factor at work.


Analysis: U.S. Supreme Court's 'shadow docket' favored religion and Trump
As midnight approached on the eve of the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday, the conservative-majority Supreme Court granted emergency requests by Christian and Jewish groups challenging COVID-19 crowd restrictions imposed by New York state.


Turn off, turn on: Simple step can thwart top phone hackers
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — As a member of the secretive Senate Intelligence Committee, Sen. Angus King has reason to worry about hackers. At a briefing by security staff this year, he said he got some advice on how to help keep his cellphone secure.

Trump, children cannot arbitrate marketing scam case -U.S. appeals court
A federal appeals court said former U.S. President Donald Trump and his adult children cannot move into arbitration a fraud lawsuit accusing them of exploiting their family name to promote a marketing scam targeting the poor and working class. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan...

Blackburn, McCaul introduce bill to counter China, Russia at UN
Sen. Marsha Blackburn and Rep. Michael McCaul on Wednesday are set to introduce legislation to counter malign influences, require transparency and promote accountability at U.N.

US defense secretary visits Vietnam, vows support for region
HANOI, Vietnam (AP) — U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is seeking to bolster ties with Vietnam, one of the Southeast Asian nations embroiled in a territorial rift with China, during a two-day visit starting Wednesday.


Biden Wants To Raise The Threshold For Products Considered Made In America
The federal government has to spend tax dollars on products made in America, but purchases qualify for that label with 55% of their materials coming from the U.S. Biden wants to raise that percentage.


Court order dashes hopes of teenage immigrant DACA applicants
"I feel frustrated that there's significant opposition to giving us an opportunity for something we didn't choose to do. We were kids. We didn't choose this," said 18-year-old Agustin, who applied for DACA this year.


Former New York state Senate candidate arrested on Trump Capitol riot charges
Failed New York state Senate candidate Daniel Christmann is among more than 500 people charged in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot by supporters of ex-President Donald Trump.

Biden set to order stricter rules for competition in ag
Psaki said Biden’s forthcoming executive order will also direct USDA to “increase opportunities for farmers to access markets and receive a fair return.”

Hooked on Trump: How the GOP Still Banks on His Brand for Cash
Even in defeat, nothing sells in the Republican Party quite like Donald Trump. The Republican National Committee has been dangling a “Trump Life Membership” to entice small contributors to give online. The party’s Senate campaign arm has been hawking an “Official Trump Majority Membership.” And...

Ted Cruz's question about China sanctions silences Biden intel official during testimony
Sen. Ted. Cruz was met with silence during a congressional hearing when he grilled a panel of cybersecurity officials on why China was not sanctioned after the attack on Microsoft and other U.S. companies.

Remington: US gunmaker offers $33m to Sandy Hook shooting victims
Victims' families from Sandy Hook elementary school sued Remington for the sale of the rifle.
www.bbc.com

Gun violence is up across the country. It’s changing mayoral politics.
Homicides and shootings are rising and the number of cops is down in cities from Atlanta to Seattle. Crime, as a result, is dominating the mayoral debates.


National Police Association slams Jan. 6 probe as ‘dog and pony show,' calls for investigation of Floyd riots
The National Police Association on Wednesday slammed Congress’ investigation of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot as a politically motivated “dog and pony show” that has no intention of uncovering the truth of what really happened that day.

NYC mayoral race favorite Eric Adams privately seeks partnerships with business leaders
Eric Adams' outreach comes after years of battles between Mayor Bill de Blasio and the New York business community.

Cheney faces political storm in Wyoming
GOP Rep. Liz Cheney is facing a wave of primary challengers at home as the Wyoming congresswoman and avowed Trump critic takes center stage with the start of the Jan. 6 select committee hearings.Ch…


Twitter accounts tied to Arizona Senate audit suspended
Two Twitter accounts associated with the Arizona Senate's audit of the Maricopa County 2020 election were suspended for violating the platform's terms of usage.

Trump-endorsed congressional candidate Max Miller denies assaulting former White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham following bombshell report about his past
"Mr. Miller has never, ever assaulted Ms. Grisham in any way whatsoever," an attorney for the Ohio GOP candidate told Politico Magazine.

‘They get really jaded’: Worker defections strain Feds' wildfire crews
President Joe Biden is boosting minimum compensation for federal workers fighting wildfires raging in the western U.S. Will that be enough to slow defections that are straining efforts to bring the blazes under control?


Trump, children cannot arbitrate marketing scam case -U.S. appeals court
A federal appeals court said former U.S. President Donald Trump and his adult children cannot move into arbitration a fraud lawsuit accusing them of exploiting their family name to promote a marketing scam targeting the poor and working class.


Indianapolis FedEx facility mass shooter wanted to 'demonstrate his masculinity,' FBI says
The gunman thought killing people showed he was a man, the FBI said.

AP-NORC poll: Inequity in community support for older adults
WASHINGTON (AP) — Many Americans believe their communities are doing a good job meeting the needs of older adults, but white people may be better equipped than people of color to age within their communities, according to a new survey from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs...


Madison Cawthorn endorses Adam Kinzinger's primary challenger
Cawthorn, a staunch supporter of former President Trump, made the endorsement on Friday, throwing his support behind Kinzinger’s primary opponent, Catalina Lauf.

Biden gun grab hit for ‘absurd fines,' 'government overreach,' and punishing vets
The Biden administration’s first major gun control effort is under fire for punishing veterans, imposing high fines unaffordable to underprivileged people, and “government overreach.”

Proposed Biden administration rule aims to decrease U.S. dependence on foreign manufacturing
President Biden will announce a proposed rule on Wednesday that aims to increase U.S.-made content in federal purchases and bolster critical supply chains, according to administration officials.Why it matters: The pandemic-induced PPE crisis and recent chip supply shortages have highlighted the...

Man accused of using bear spray on police pleads not guilty in U.S. Capitol riot
A California man accused of attacking police with bear spray and a large metal sign during the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol assault by supporters of then-President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to federal charges including riot-related felonies.


Trump rewards Ken Paxton's support with key endorsement in Texas GOP primary
Ex-President Donald Trump has endorsed longtime backer Ken Paxton for a third term as Texas attorney general. George P. Bush is running against him.
www.usatoday.com

State AGs will appeal loss in Facebook case
Attorneys general from 45 states, D.C. and Guam said they would appeal a June decision that threw out their suit.


Thousands of scientists warn climate tipping points ‘imminent’
Researchers say ‘overexploitation of the Earth’ has seen many of its ‘vital signs’ deteriorate to record levels.

Inside Democrats' quest to nominate judges who break the ex-prosecutor mold | CNN Politics
As part of the historically quick work to put his judicial nominees on the bench, President Joe Biden is on a mission to pick judges whose professional backgrounds break the mold of the ex-prosecutor and corporate law veterans who currently dominate the federal judiciary.

Buy American: Biden to increase the share of US-made parts for government purchases
The Biden administration says it's going beyond changes made by former President Donald Trump to buy more American-made products.
www.usatoday.com

U.S. women's hoops team captures 3-on-3 Olympic gold
TOKYO (AP) — Their scrapbooks and trophy cases are filled with memories from Final Fours, national titles, All-America honors and even some impressive showings in the pros. Now, they have Olympic gold medals to go with all that.


UK financial watchdog cracks down on lack of diversity in boardrooms with ‘comply or explain’ proposal
The FCA has proposed changing the rules for companies listed in the U.K. to include a "comply or explain" requirement for not meeting diversity targets.

Trump booster Herschel Walker skipped voting in 2016 when future president was on the ballot, records show
Herschel Walker did not cast a presidential vote in 2016 despite talking up the eventual winner, Donald Trump. And with the exception of 2020, Walker has not pulled the lever in any election since at least 2003, according to records reviewed by the Washington Examiner.


California urges power conservation in heat wave, prices soar
U.S. power prices soared on Wednesday as homes and businesses cranked up air conditioners to escape another heat wave, prompting the California grid operator to urge conservation.


US, India agree to expand multilateral security partnership
NEW DELHI (AP) — The top diplomats of India and the United States pledged Wednesday to expand their multilateral security partnership, underscoring the deepening of ties between two countries concerned over China’s growing influence in the region.

Anti Vaxxer Naomi Wolf Joins Trump’s Doomed Tech Suit
Simone Padovani/Awakening/GettyFormer President Donald Trump’s legal crusade against big tech has a new ally: Naomi Wolf. The former Democratic campaign adviser, feminist advocate, and anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist has signed on as a co-plaintiff in the Trump-led social media lawsuit...

Lawmakers press State Department for answers on passport delays that have scuttled summer travel plans
EXCLUSIVE: Lawmakers are ramping up the pressure on the Department of State to resolve a major backlog in processing passport applications that has left many U.S. travelers in limbo and in some cases forced Americans to cancel their long-planned vacations abroad.

NASA's new mission studies how intense thunderstorms may influence climate change
NASA’s new mission studies how intense thunderstorms may influence climate change

Biden condemns anti-Semitism after swastika found at State Department
U.S. President Joe Biden spoke out against anti-Semitism after officials said that a swastika had been found carved into the wall of a U.S. State Department elevator.


McAuliffe attacks Youngkin by tying him to Trump's election lies | CNN Politics
Virginia's Terry McAuliffe, in an effort to tie his gubernatorial opponent, Glenn Youngkin, to all things Donald Trump, is now linking the Republican nominee to the former President's top focus: so-called election integrity.

McAuliffe says election doubters ‘hurting our country,’ despite questioning Democrats’ loss in 2000
Democratic nominee for Virginia governor said people who question President Biden’s election win are "hurting our country," despite his own history of challenging presidential election results.
A falling stock? Donald Trump-backed candidate loses U.S. House race to GOP's Jake Ellzey.
Susan Wright, widow of Rep. Ron Wright, had the endorsement of former President Donald Trump in the special election. What does her loss mean?

‘War all around’: Kandahar residents fear Taliban advance on city
Thousands of Afghans displaced and many forced to flee to safer places as Taliban surrounds Kandahar city.

Democratic Donor Ed Buck Is Convicted In Deaths Of 2 Men He Offered Drugs For Sex
A jury convicted the wealthy Californian on charges he injected gay men with methamphetamine in exchange for sex, leading to two deaths and other overdoses. He faces a potential life sentence.


Biden's talk of vaccine mandates sends labor into disarray
AFL-CIO’s Trumka said he supported it. But other unions don’t and they’ve let the White House know it.


How The Olympic Medal Table Explains The World
The medal table provides a concise lesson in world history for the past century, reflecting wars won and lost, economic growth and decline, and a country's overall standing on the international stage.


Bosnian Serbs defy top UN official Inzko over genocide denial
Ethnic Serb leaders accused of playing down the Srebrenica massacre will now boycott parliament.
www.bbc.com

Judge finds probable cause to charge Wisconsin cop in death
A Wisconsin judge has found probable cause to charge a police officer in the 2016 slaying of a Black man, years after prosecutors declined to file charges

‘Shocking’: South Africa slams Israel’s AU observer status
South Africa calls the AU’s move ‘unjust and unwarranted’, complaining it was taken without consulting its members.

Democrat Eric Adams reportedly revs up campaign against Democratic socialism
Democratic mayoral candidate Eric Adams reportedly touted his opposition to the Democratic socialist “movement" Monday.


Man on scooter steals millions from upmarket Paris jeweller
The middle-aged armed robber targets a store in an upmarket area of the French capital.
www.bbc.com

‘He’s a Great Guy’: Trump’s Favored Aide Has Troubled Past
Sources say Max Miller has a history of aggressive behavior that includes slapping his ex-girlfriend, former White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham.

Poor People’s Campaign march to prevent Texas voting restrictions
Marchers set off from Georgetown on Wednesday morning, aiming to reach state capitol in Austin for a voting laws rally on Saturday The Poor People’s Campaign and local residents march to urge Joe Manchin to expand voting rights in Charleston, West Virginia, on 14 June. Photograph: Gaelen...

Vast majority of European nations limit elective abortions after 15 weeks, US outside mainstream: study
U.S. elective abortion restrictions are outside the global mainstream as most European nations ban the procedure much earlier in the pregnancy, according to a new study.

'OK not to be OK': Mental health takes top role at Olympics
TOKYO (AP) — For decades, they were told to shake it off or toughen up — to set aside the doubt, or the demons, and focus on the task at hand: winning. Dominating. Getting it done. For years, Simone Biles was one of the very best at that.


Desalination advances in California despite opponents pushing for alternatives
Environmentalists say desalination decimates ocean life, costs too much money and energy, and soon will be made obsolete by water recycling. But as Western states face an epic drought, regulators appear ready to approve a desalination plant in Huntington Beach, California.


Woman unaware she had $39M lottery ticket in purse for weeks
Lottery officials say a woman in Germany carried a winning ticket in her purse for weeks without realizing it was worth about 33 million euros ($39 million)

Soaring tortilla prices hit struggling Mexican households hard
Mexico’s poorer households are hardest hit by food price inflation because it eats up a bigger share of their income.

Who is Jade Carey? Meet the gymnast stepping in for Simone Biles in the Olympics all-around final
On Thursday, Jade Carey will compete for gold — as a replacement for Simone Biles, who withdrew to focus on her mental health.


Physical risk of gymnastics, Simone Biles' skills makes mental health vital, gymnasts say
Biles withdrew from the team and individual competitions at the Tokyo Olympics.

Germany charges Syrian doctor with crimes against humanity
Alla Mousa is accused of 18 counts of torturing people in military hospitals in the Syrian cities of Homs and Damascus.

McCormick recalls three seasonings due to salmonella concerns
Kroger, Publix, Stop & Shop, Target and Walmart among retailers that sold spices in 32 states, Bermuda and Canada.


Stone Age axe dating back 1.3 million years unearthed in Morocco
Researchers find North Africa’s oldest Stone Age hand-axe manufacturing site, dating back 1.3 million years.

Racism of rioters takes center stage in Jan. 6 hearing
It had only been hinted at in previous public examinations of the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection: Scores of rioters attacked police officers not just with makeshift weapons, stun guns and fists, but with racist slurs and accusations of treason.


Infrastructure deal: Senate suddenly acts to take up bill
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate voted Wednesday night to begin work on a nearly $1 trillion national infrastructure plan, acting with sudden speed after weeks of fits and starts once the White House and a bipartisan group of senators agreed on major provisions of the package that’s key to President...


Biden woos working class with new 'buy American' efforts
MACUNGIE, Pa. (AP) — President Joe Biden checked out the big rigs at a Pennsylvania truck factory on Wednesday and promised workers that his policies would reshape the U.S economy for the working class — a message clearly aimed at a group of voters who have drifted to Republicans.


DOJ won't protect GOP Rep. Mo Brooks in insurrection lawsuit
The Justice Department on Tuesday rejected a request from GOP Rep. Mo Brooks to protect him from a civil lawsuit against him and former President Donald Trump concerning the January 6 insurrection.


Capitol police testimony blunts GOP's law-and-order message
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Republican Party's self-portrayal as champions of law and order is colliding with searing testimony from police officers themselves. Officers on Tuesday described in vivid, personal terms the terror of defending the U.S.


Key moments from first day of Capitol riot inquiry
Police officers gave emotional testimony about their struggles during the riot to US lawmakers.
www.bbc.com
Rep. Jim Jordan, After Dodging Question, Admits He Spoke To Trump On Jan. 6
The Ohio Republican could be subpoenaed to testify about his exchanges with the then-president on the day the U.S. Capitol was attacked.

Capitol riot arrest of restaurant owner rattles hometown
KANE, Pa. (AP) — A crank caller ordered an “insurrection pizza” from Pauline Bauer’s restaurant. A profane piece of hate mail addressed her as a domestic terrorist. She even became a punchline for Stephen Colbert’s late-night talk show on CBS.


Key takeaways from Jan. 6 hearing: Powerful testimony counters revisionist history
The House select committee tasked with investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol held its first hearing on Capitol Hill Tuesday. Here are key takeaways.

Don Lemon defends Tucker Carlson amid confrontation video
CNN anchor Don Lemon on Monday criticized the treatment of Tucker Carlson by a man who confronted the Fox News host in a Montana fishing shop over the weekend.”I never thought I’d …

Here's what could happen to the Trump Organization now
Since Donald Trump won the 2016 election, his namesake company has appeared to be running in place. The Trump Organization hasn't opened a new property since its (now shuttered) Vancouver hotel in February 2017. Its biggest plans for expansion - two new lower-cost hotel chains aimed at...

Top Wisconsin Republican doubts value of another election audit
A top Wisconsin Republican pushed back on a colleague’s promise for a “cyberforensic examination” of voting equipment used during the 2020 election, setting the stage for another rift between the GOP official and former President Donald Trump.


DOJ declines to back Mo Brooks’s defense against Swalwell’s riot lawsuit
The Department of Justice on Tuesday declined to back a Republican lawmaker’s legal defense against a lawsuit accusing him of helping to foment the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.


Explosive select committee hearing does little to change the minds of Trump-loyal Republicans about January 6 | CNN Politics
Some of Donald Trump's fiercest allies in Congress are continuing to downplay or ignore the January 6 insurrection, taking cues from the former President even after four police officers testified Tuesday, in front of the House select committee investigating the deadly Capitol attack, about their...

Democrats press Biden to extend eviction ban
The last-minute debate about whether to renew the moratorium a fifth time comes as the U.S. faces growing uncertainty about the impact of a resurgence in Covid-19 cases.

The first January 6 committee hearing was a searing indictment of the GOP's lies about the fatal Capitol attack
The hearing was a disaster for Republicans. It was an emotionally raw indictment of former President Donald Trump and his GOP defenders.
Arizona Senate leaders issue new subpoenas for Maricopa County routers amid ongoing audit
The subpoenas come just days after Donald Trump espoused debunked conspiracy theories about the county's routers during a speech in Phoenix.

Hearing exposes TV viewers to blunt language, racial slurs
NEW YORK (AP) — People who watched the first day of a House investigation into the Jan. 6 uprising at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday were exposed to the sort of blunt language, including profanity and racial slurs, rarely heard on daytime television.


Capitol attack hearing: 'Kill him,' racial slurs and more
WASHINGTON (AP) — During emotional, tense and sometimes angry testimony, four police officers who defended the Capitol on Jan. 6 vividly recalled the violence they endured while fighting against a mob of Donald Trump's supporters.


Schiff and Kinzinger tear up in Jan. 6 hearing: ‘It must be an Adam thing’
Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff of California and Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois both choked up at the first hearing for the select committee to investigate the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol as they questioned four Capitol Police and Metropolitan Police Department officers who withstood the…


‘Grabbed, beaten, tased’: Police testify in US Capitol riot probe
Officers recount the January 6 riot at the first hearing of a US House special committee investigating the insurrection.

GOP’s Jake Ellzey wins US House seat over Trump-backed rival
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Republican Jake Ellzey of Texas won a U.S. House seat on Tuesday night over a rival backed by Donald Trump, dealing the former president a defeat in a test of his endorsement power since leaving office.


2 Capitol rioters plead guilty while House hearing unfolds; judge calls their behavior 'reprehensible' | CNN Politics
""It's very troubling to me that a group of Americans will do what happened that day. It made us an embarrassment," a federal judge said

Biden intel and DOJ officials grilled by Cruz over lack of sanctions for China cyberattacks
Witnesses from key federal agencies could not give an answer why the United States hasn’t sanctioned China for its cyberattacks against Microsoft and other U.S. companies, responding to Sen. Ted Cruz’s question on Tuesday with silence.


White House wants broadband funding in infrastructure bill -sources
A bipartisan group of senators and the White House are debating extending a program started early in the COVID-19 pandemic to help lower-income Americans get broadband access by tucking it into the $1.2 trillion infrastructure package, according to two sources familiar with the discussions.


Gretchen Whitmer breaks fundraising records via loophole for recalls
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer broke fundraising records for her prospective recall later this year, prompting GOP strategists to urge activists to ease off the recall efforts.

'Partisan Pageantry': Republican Senators Dismiss Emotional Jan. 6 Hearing
"Just because she loves drama doesn’t mean I have to attend the performance,” Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) said of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Prominent US Democratic Party activist convicted in 'party and play' deaths
A wealthy former U.S. Democratic Party activist accused of giving fatal doses of methamphetamine to two men he invited to his suburban Los Angeles home for sex was convicted on Tuesday of nine federal criminal counts.

GOP Rep. Elise Stefanik lies and says 'Nancy Pelosi bears responsibility' for the pro-Trump January 6 insurrection
Stefanik was echoing a talking point that has become central to the GOP's effort to whitewash the deadly insurrection and rewrite history.

Senators Strike Bipartisan Funding Deal For Capitol Security And Afghan Refugees
The $2.1 billion bill would boost support for the Capitol complex in the aftermath of the Jan. 6 insurrection, direct funds to the Capitol Police and provide humanitarian support for Afghan refugees.

GOP doubters unswayed by Jan. 6 testimony
Rather than winning over House Republicans, the dramatic testimony delivered during the Jan. 6 select committee's first public hearing led them to double down on their criticism that the investigation is purely political.Why it matters: The remarks signal that regardless of the panel's eventual...
Biden maintains Trump-era border policy despite promises for more humane practices
President Biden is building his own kind of border wall.Why it matters: By maintaining a Trump-era policy allowing border agents to kick asylum seekers back to Mexico — and now allowing some migrant families to face detention and fast-track deportations — a Democrat who promised a more humane...

Man charged with sending threatening emails to Dr. Fauci
Messages, some as recently as last week, pledged violence, harm to top U.S. medical figures, and came through a Switzerland-based company's service.

U.S. concern over China nukes buildup after new silos report
The Pentagon and Republican congressmen on Tuesday aired fresh concerns about China's build-up of its nuclear forces after a new report saying Beijing was building 110 more missile silos. An American Federation of Scientists (AFS) report on Monday said satellite images showed China was building...

Mitt Romney praises Simone Biles following withdrawal from team event
Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) publicly applauded U.S. gymnast Simone Biles after she withdrew from the U.S. women’s Olympic team final on Tuesday. “I love and admir…

Rev. Barber, Beto O’Rourke Launch 4-Day March For Voting Rights In Texas
Rev. William Barber’s Poor People’s Campaign is leading a 27-mile, multiday march against voter suppression, urging Congress to take action on voting rights.

'Tiger of the House' claws his way through infrastructure talks
Peter DeFazio has made his life's work about transportation. Now, at a pivotal moment, the Democratic committee chair's being boxed out.


EXPLAINER: Employers have legal right to mandate COVID shots
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The state of California. New York City. Hospitals and nursing homes. Colleges and universities. Employers are putting COVID-19 vaccine mandates into place and it's getting attention.

Florida ag commissioner suspends concealed weapons permits for 22 Capitol rioters
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried said Tuesday she suspended the concealed carry licenses of 22 people charged in connection to the Capitol insurrection "instigated by Donald Trump."Why it matters: The move comes shortly after the Jan. 6 select committee held its first hearing on the...

Millions under heat alerts as dozens of wildfires burn in US
A heat wave is blanketing much of the county as dozens of largely uncontained wildfires continue to burn in the West.

Libertarian group sues government over information on $143 billion in improper Medicaid payments
The libertarian organization Americans for Prosperity Foundation is suing the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to find out what it is doing about $143 billion in improper payments made by Medicaid.

Arizona audit: Republican liaison tells Insider the audit process has been 'very odd' and that he may resign
Ken Bennett, Arizona's former GOP secretary of state, said he remains frustrated after being shut out by Cyber Ninjas.

Why POTUS won’t touch Putin’s dirty money


Republicans torch Biden over report that migrants released without court dates are disappearing into the US
The Biden administration released 50,000 undocumented migrants into the U.S., with only 13% of them appearing to the ICE officials they’re supposed to meet, according to a new report.

McCarthy pulls GOP picks off House economic panel
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) has pulled all six Republican lawmakers off of Democrats’ special committee on economic disparity, sources said Tuesday, in protest of Speaker …


House unanimously passes bill to create DC monument celebrating medal of honor recipients
The House unanimously passed a bill that would create a monument to commemorate Medal of Honor recipients in Washington, D.C.


DOJ says GOP Rep. Mo Brooks was not acting in official capacity in Capitol riot lawsuit
The Justice Department told a federal court Tuesday that Brooks, R-Ala., wasn't acting in an official capacity when he spoke at Trump's rally.


U.S. infrastructure crumbling as Congress debates funding
Bridges are falling apart across the country, especially in Pennsylvania, which says it does not have the funding to make the repairs.


Julian Assange stripped of Ecuadorian citizenship
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been stripped of his Ecuadorian citizenship, The Associated Press reported on Tuesday.According to the AP, Ecuador formally notified Assange that his citizenshi…


In 1st visit to intel agency, Biden warns of cyber conflict
MCLEAN, Va. (AP) — President Joe Biden used his first visit with rank-and-file members of the U.S. intelligence community — a part of government that was frequently criticized by his predecessor Donald Trump — to make a promise that he will “never politicize” their work.


'Better Call Saul' actor Bob Odenkirk collapses on set, is rushed to hospital
It’s unclear whether Odenkirk was conscious when he was transported. He was still receiving medical care Tuesday night, his representative said.


Ellzey wins US House seat in Texas in closely watched race
Jake Ellzey, the Texas Republican, won a special congressional election against Susan Wright, who had the support of former President Trump.
Biden: If U.S. has 'real shooting war' it could be result of cyber attacks
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Joe Biden on Tuesday warned that if the United States ended up in a "real shooting war" with a "major power" it could be the result of a significant cyber attack on the country, highlighting what Washington sees as growing threats posed by Russia and China...

Two Colorado officers arrested after arrest in which man was struck with gun, choked
One officer is accused of failing to stop a fellow officer as required by a new police accountability law.


Takeaways from the Jan. 6 committee hearing: Police accounts of Capitol attack made for an emotional day
The nearly four-hour hearing Tuesday offered a harrowing account of officers beaten unconscious, tear-gassed, and taunted with racial epithets.
www.usatoday.com

U.S. sells 'Pharma Bro' Shkreli's Wu-Tang Clan album
The U.S. government said it sold imprisoned drug company executive Martin Shkreli's one-of-a-kind album by Wu-Tang Clan to pay off the $7.36 million he was ordered to forfeit after being convicted of fraud.


Katie Ledecky wins gold in 1500-meter Olympic freestyle race
American Katie Ledecky won gold in the 1,500-meter freestyle race, the first time that distance was on offer for women at the Olympics.

We asked art critics about Hunter's paintings


Harper criticizes Canadian, U.S. pandemic spending as 'overkill'
"Now that our populations are increasingly vaccinated, the focus should be on economic recovery," said Harper.


House Republicans pull out of another key select committee in a sign of 1/6 panel fallout | CNN Politics
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy has pulled out all six Republicans designated to serve on a key select committee on the economy, three sources tell CNN, a sign of the fallout among House Republicans over being vetoed from the panel investigating the January 6 insurrection.

Iowa judge to decide if Mollie Tibbetts' convicted killer will get new trial
An Iowa judge is deciding whether to grant the man convicted of murdering Mollie Tibbetts a new trial.

Jill Biden’s chief of staff picked for US ambassador to Spain
President Biden has picked first lady Jill Biden’s chief of staff, Julissa Reynoso, to be the U.S. ambassador to Spain.The White House announced Reynoso’s nomination in a statement&…


California expands state healthcare to undocumented residents 50 and up
California's governor on Tuesday signed into law a major expansion of the state's Medicaid coverage to all low-income residents aged 50 and up regardless of their immigration status, extending eligibility to some 235,000 undocumented people.


Analysis: What will the GOP defend, if not the Constitution and Capitol?
Analysis: Only Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger seem to see that they can serve both the country and the Republican Party.

Biden nominating Mark Gitenstein as his ambassador to the European Union
President Biden is nominating Mark Gitenstein, a former U.S. ambassador to Romania, to be his envoy to the European Union.Driving the news: Gitenstein is the latest ambassadorial announcement from the White House, as Biden rewards former aides, political allies and big dollar donors. Stay on top...

American Carissa Moore rides a wave to Olympic history
American Carissa Moore won the first gold medal for women in Olympic surfboarding.

Leaker of drone secrets gets 45 months in prison
Former Air Force intelligence analyst Daniel Hale will serve nearly four years in prison for sharing information on U.S. drone operations with a journalist.


Concerns as India builds rail network in remote state near China
Environmentalists fear the project threatens thousands of lives in an ecologically fragile region prone to landslides.

Officers give emotional testimony at Capitol riot select committee hearing
The officers spoke — at times angrily — about the physical and psychological injuries they sustained on January 6.


Police recount mayhem and 'attempted coup' in U.S. Capitol riot
Four police officers on Tuesday told lawmakers they were beaten, taunted with racial insults, heard threats including "kill him with his own gun" and thought they might die as they struggled to defend the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 against a mob of then-President Donald Trump's supporters.


Black police officer gives emotional account of racial attacks from Jan. 6 mob
"Those words are weapons," Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn said of the racial slurs hurled at him by pro-Trump rioters.


New Jersey town drops case against ‘F--- Biden’ sign lady after ACLU intervenes: report
A town in New Jersey has decided to end its effort to have a resident remove various anti-Biden signs from her property, including several that contain profanity.

Gilgamesh tablet: US authorities take ownership of artefact
The Gilgamesh Dream Tablet was imported illegally into the US before being bought by Hobby Lobby.
www.bbc.com

Hobby Lobby ordered to forfeit ancient artifact bought for $1.6 million in 2014 | CNN Politics
A New York federal court has ordered US craft store Hobby Lobby to forfeit an ancient artifact purchased at a 2014 auction that "originated in the area of modern-day Iraq and entered the United States contrary to federal law," the Justice Department announced Tuesday.

Israeli org seeks to sell products under Ben & Jerry’s name in Israeli-occupied areas
An Israeli organization said it registered a commercial entity called “Judea and Samaria’s Ben & Jerry’s” with the Israeli registry of corporations and plans to sell products under the name in …


Israel-Gaza conflict: Apparent war crimes committed, says rights group
Human Rights Watch accuses Israel and Palestinian militants of unlawful attacks in May's conflict.
www.bbc.com

Seattle mayor calls for more police after six shootings in one weekend
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan is calling on the city to rebuild its depleted police force after six separate shootings rocked Washington state’s largest metropolitan area over the weekend.
Britney Spears' medical team support efforts to remove dad Jamie from conservatorship
Following Britney Spears' official filing to remove her father as conservator of her estate, the singer's medical team backs her decision to do so.
www.usatoday.com

Michelle Obama to Simone Biles: ‘We are proud of you and we are rooting for you’
Former first lady Michelle Obama on Tuesday shared her support for U.S. gymnastics star Simone Biles after the athlete withdrew from the team gymnastics competition at the Tokyo Olympics, tweeting,…


"Just proud": Ledecky finally wins gold at Tokyo Olympics
TOKYO (AP) — When Katie Ledecky finally saw that familiar number next to her name, the emotions flooded to the surface at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre. She tumbled over the lane rope to give her runner-up teammate a hug.


Olympic champion Simone Biles "super frustrated" after pulling out of team finals
The team ended up earning a silver medal, ending their bid for a third straight Olympic title.


La Porte, Texas, chemical plant leak leaves 2 dead and 30 hospitalized, officials say
At least two people are dead and 30 are hospitalized after a chemical leak of acetic acid at a plant in a Houston suburb Tuesday night, officials say.
www.usatoday.com

Let more Afghan interpreters resettle in UK, say ex-military chiefs
More Afghans who worked for British forces should be allowed to resettle in the UK, former military chiefs say.
www.bbc.com

New evidence shows Trump appointees' political interference with CDC weekly Covid data reports, House subcommittee says
A Democratic-led House select committee says it has uncovered evidence of political interference by the Trump administration into the federal government's coronavirus response last year, including attempts to alter or block data reports from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention...


Gymnasts support US women, Biles after silver finish in Tokyo
Gymnasts show their support for the U.S. women's team and Simone Biles after winning silver at the Tokyo Olympics.

Wu-Tang Clan album bought by Martin Shkreli sold by US government
The album was handed over as part of a $7.4m deal with a notorious former drug firm executive.
www.bbc.com

Newsom signs bill granting taxpayer funded health care to elderly illegal immigrants
California has become the first state in the nation to provide taxpayer funded health benefits to elderly illegal immigrants.

Ben Crump files lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson on behalf of Black women
The company has denied its products cause cancer.

House panel looks to help military sexual assault survivors
A House Armed Services Committee subpanel is including changes to help sexual assault survivors in its portion of the annual defense policy bill, while leaving a broader fight on overhauling t…


Joey Jordison: Slipknot founding drummer dies aged 46
Jordison was a member of the mask-wearing heavy metal band and also performed with the likes of Metallica.
www.bbc.com


'Steady increase' in vaccines in past month, White House says
A pandemic of the novel coronavirus has now infected more than 197 million people worldwide and killed over 4.2 million of them.

Should vaccinated people mask up with COVID-19 cases rising?
Should vaccinated people mask up with COVID-19 cases rising? Yes. In places where the virus is surging, the U.S.


Tempers flare as some in GOP ignore new House mask mandate
Several GOP lawmakers refused to comply with the newly reinstated mask requirement on the House side of the Capitol on Wednesday, putting themselves at risk of having to pay hefty fines as punishme…


Experts warn of prolonged COVID-19 pandemic due to vaccine inequality
Experts have warned that the world needs to be vaccinated against COVID to avoid a prolonged pandemic.

New survey suggests Facebook followers less likely to get vaccinated than Fox News viewers
The Washington Post analyzed sources of coronavirus information and vaccination rates.


McConnell blames ‘bad advice’ for lower vaccination rates in some parts of US
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) is blaming “bad advice” for lower vaccination rates, adding that there are not enough people vaccinated in the U.S.

House Republicans rage and disobey return of mask mandate: ‘Absolutely absurd’
Republican lawmakers on Wednesday protested against the House floor mask mandate being reinstituted the previous evening, with several members of the minority party refusing to wear a face covering and Texas Rep. Chip Roy using a legislative delay tactic to show discontent.

McConnell using campaign cash to pay for vaccine PSAs
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) plans to use money from his reelection campaign to run radio ads on over 100 Kentucky stations in the coming days to promote getting vaccinated for COVID-19, Reuters reports.Why it matters: The most hardcore opponents of vaccination — the group who...

CDC updated mask guidance because 'not enough' people 'stepped up to get vaccinated'
The White House is spinning the updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mask guidance as a response to stagnant COVID-19 immunization rates, days after insisting it would not take part in a blame game.


Senate GOP steps up vaccine push amid lingering conservative skepticism
“I am pro-life, and that’s not just for the unborn. It’s for those that are living,” Sen. Mitt Romney said.


Pelosi: GOP ‘delinquent’ on promoting vaccines
Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) took a jab at Republicans on Wednesday over COVID-19 vaccinations, arguing the GOP has been “delinquent” in embracing the science of vaccinations.Pelosi was ask…


A third of eligible people aren't vaccinated. Here's what we know about them | CNN Politics
We've been referring a lot to "the unvaccinated" vs. "the vaccinated" in very general terms that paint over who, exactly, is in these groups and what might be motivating them.

Cuomo urges New York businesses to serve only vaccinated patrons
Gov. Andrew Cuomo requested the help of New York businesses in preventing the spread of COVID-19 by urging them to admit only vaccinated patrons.


As Covid cases surge, the unvaccinated are triggering scorn, resentment from the vaccinated
Hopes are getting dashed for a summer that feels more like pre-pandemic years. Now, another feeling has overcome many of the vaccinated: contempt.


NYC to give $100 to those getting COVID-19 vaccine
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that people getting their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at any city-run vaccination site will receive a $100 incentive starting Friday, July 30.

Here’s where you should wear a mask indoors under new CDC guidance
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday released updated guidance that recommended many Americans again wear masks when they venture into indoor public spaces such as g…


New CDC guidelines set off rush to reimpose mask mandates
New guidance from the federal government set off a cascade of mask rules across the nation Wednesday as cities, states, schools and businesses raced to restore mandates and others pushed back against the guidelines at a time when Americans are exhausted and confused over constantly shifting...


Provincetown COVID-19 cluster widens to 760 cases
A Provincetown, Mass., coronavirus cluster has expanded to more than 760 cases since the outbreak on July 4, the town’s manager, Alex Morse, said Tuesday.Morse said 765 cases have been identi…


Covid relief programs are starting to expire for millions of Americans
Sixteen months after the coronavirus pandemic upended the economy and left millions of Americans out of work, the historic relief programs Congress put in place are set to start expiring.


Texas police department warns public after COVID-positive migrants released by Border Patrol into town
A Texas border town police department is warning citizens of the potential danger posed by illegal immigrants infected with the coronavirus being released by Border Patrol agents and housed in local hotels.

New CDC guidelines set off rush to reimpose mask mandates
New guidance from the federal government set off a cascade of mask rules across the nation as cities, states, schools and businesses raced to bring back mandates

Covid: No quarantine for fully jabbed US and EU travellers
Ministers hope the rule change in England, Scotland and Wales will help reunite family and friends.
www.bbc.com

Biden to announce vaccine mandate for all federal employees: Sources
President Joe Biden told ABC News on Tuesday that a mandate to require all federal employees to be vaccinated from COVID-19 was "under consideration."

House to resume mask mandate after new CDC guidance
Masks will once again be universally required on the House side of the Capitol amid the spread of the highly contagious delta variant, the Capitol physician announced late Tuesday night.


White House considering vaccine mandate for federal workers
WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House is strongly considering requiring federal employees to show proof they’ve been vaccinated against the coronavirus or otherwise submit to regular testing and wear a mask — a potentially major shift in policy that reflects growing concerns about the spread of the...


Pediatricians' advice for parents confused about kids and face masks amid COVID-19 surge
The nation's top pediatric group is calling on all kids to wear masks at school.

Tennessee GOP state senators urge residents to get COVID-19 vaccine amid surge
More than half of the Republican state senators in the Tennessee legislature signed an open letter on Tuesday calling on residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as cases once again surge …

Mitch McConnell tried to pin slowing vaccine rates on Biden, despite conservatives leading efforts that eroded trust
Mitch McConnell sought to credit the prior Trump administration, while not mentioning that vaccine hesitancy is concentrated among GOP supporters.

Masks and vaccine mandate show CDC and Biden taking emergency action amid Covid-19 surge
The steps President Joe Biden's administration is adopting this week to re-recommend masks and require vaccines for federal workers amount to emergency actions designed to contain a new surge of Covid-19 that has quickly become the top issue confronting the White House.


Newsom pulls kids from summer camp after maskless revelation
Newsom's two eldest children, ages 11 and 10, attended the camp for a day.


Explainer: What is the Lambda coronavirus variant?
The Lambda variant has spread to 28 countries but it is not considered a variant of concern. Here’s what we know so far.
These 6 red and blue states tell you everything you need to know about where Delta is hitting hardest — and why
An average of nearly twice as many people per capita are now hospitalized for COVID-19 in states that voted for Donald Trump in 2020 as in states that voted for Joe Biden, according to a Yahoo News analysis.

House reinstates masks requirements as delta variant surges nationwide
The guidance comes hours after the CDC reversed course and urged even those fully vaccinated to wear masks indoors in areas of high COVID transmission.
www.usatoday.com

Bipartisan group of senators demand 'thorough review' of US funding for Chinese gain-of-function research
A bipartisan front of senators called on President Joe Biden to pull out all the stops to determine COVID-19’s origins and investigate possibly connected issues, such as U.S. government funding for coronavirus research at a Wuhan lab.


Tokyo sets another virus record days after Olympics begin
TOKYO (AP) — Tokyo reported 3,177 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, setting an all-time high and exceeding 3,000 for the first time days after the start of the Olympics. The new cases exceeded the earlier record of 2,848 set the previous day and brought the total for the Japanese capital to...


Why is Duterte still riding high despite recession, COVID?
July survey shows president leading as probable vice presidential contender amid ‘failed’ COVID-19 response.

Covid travel: Fully jabbed from EU and US could avoid quarantine
Senior cabinet ministers are due to discuss the move for arrivals to England in a meeting on Wednesday.
www.bbc.com

Iowa governor suggests immigrants partially to blame for rising COVID-19 cases
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) on Tuesday placed partial blame for the recent surge in COVID-19 cases on immigrants crossing into the U.S. from its southern border.”Part of the problem is the sou…


Republican governors slam CDC for updated mask requirement: 'Not grounded in reality'
Republican governors from Iowa, Texas, Florida and others slammed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's new guidance.

CDC says some vaccinated Americans should wear masks indoors again
The CDC also said masks should be required of everyone inside K-12 schools.

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