(AP Photo/Susan Walsh, file)
WASHINGTON (AP) — COVID-19 cases are increasing in the United States — and could get even worse over the coming months, federal health officials warned Wednesday in urging areas hardest hit to consider reissuing calls for indoor masking.
Primaries fuel questions about potency of Trump endorsements
Tuesday’s primaries are fueling questions about the strength of Donald Trump’s endorsement even as the results underscored the extent to which the former president has molded the party in his image…
thehill.com
May 18, 2022 Russia-Ukraine news | CNN
The evacuation mission at the Azovstol steel plant in Mariupol continues, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said. It follows the end of Ukrainian forces’ “combat mission” at the complex. Follow here for live news updates.
www.cnn.com
Interrogation, uncertainty for surrendering Mariupol troops
Russia says that nearly 1,000 Ukrainian troops who doggedly defended a giant steelworks in Mariupol have surrendered.
apnews.com
How Pa. GOP gov pick could turn election lies into action
Doug Mastriano is not the only candidate who won a Republican primary on Tuesday after embracing former President Donald Trump’s lie that the 2020 election was stolen.
apnews.com
Trump pushes Oz to declare victory in undecided Pennsylvania primary
The former president's call for Oz to declare victory is an echo of his own effort to steal a victory in Pennsylvania in the 2020 general election from President Joe Biden.
www.politico.com
Republicans warn Trump-backed Mastriano over false election claims and eye impact on Senate race | CNN Politics
Republicans, reacting to the victory of Trump-backed Doug Mastriano in the GOP gubernatorial primary in Pennsylvania, were uneasy about the election falsehoods he’s spread about 2020 – and warned that voters aren’t interested in re-litigating it.
www.cnn.com
DHS warns of threats from extremists on both sides of abortion issue
Since the Supreme Court draft opinion that would overturn Roe v. Wade was published May 2, at least 25 violent threats on social media have been referred to law enforcement.
www.nbcnews.com
EU rushes out $300 billion roadmap to ditch Russian energy
The European Union’s executive arm is moving to jump-start plans for the EU to abandon Russian energy amid the Kremlin’s war in Ukraine.
apnews.com
Asian shares track Wall Street's inflation-fueled retreat
Shares are sharply lower in Asia after a broad retreat on Wall Street. Hong Kong's Hang Seng led the declines, dropping 3.1%, while Tokyo's Nikkei 225 index was 2.7% lower.
apnews.com
Vote counting far from over as Trump-backed Dr. Oz and Dave McCormick deadlocked in PA GOP Senate primary
Vote counting resumed Wednesday morning in Pennsylvania’s high stakes GOP Senate primary, with Mehmet Oz and Dave McCormick virtually deadlocked
Russia-Ukraine latest updates: US Congress passes aid package
Ukraine news from May 19: US Senate approves military and economic aid package by a vote of 86-11.
Oz, McCormick still neck and neck in Pa. GOP Senate primary
Heart surgeon-turned-TV celebrity Dr. Mehmet Oz and former hedge fund CEO David McCormick are locked in a too-early-to-call race for the Republican nomination to fill an open Pennsylvania U.S.
apnews.com
Conservative earthquake rocks Idaho
Idaho Gov. Brad Little won the Republican Party’s nomination for a second term on Tuesday, easily outpacing a conservative challenger who had former President Trump’s support.But Little’s allies in…
thehill.com
Turkey's Erdogan links Sweden, Finland NATO bid to return of 'terrorists'
President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday Sweden should not expect Turkey to approve its NATO bid without returning "terrorists", and Swedish and Finnish delegations should not come to Turkey to convince it to back their membership in the alliance.
Biden invokes Defense Production Act for formula shortage
President Joe Biden has invoked the Defense Production Act to speed production of infant formula and has authorized flights to import supply from overseas.
apnews.com
Human Rights Watch documents 'apparent war crimes' by Russia in Ukraine
A leading human rights watchdog said on Wednesday it had documented further cases of "apparent war crimes" by Russian troops in two regions in Ukraine.
Marc Elias, Hillary Clinton campaign’s top lawyer, turns tables on Durham to air Democratic grievances about 2016 election | CNN Politics
Special counsel John Durham has used his first trial as a vehicle to air some of the Hillary Clinton campaign’s dirty laundry, but that was derailed Wednesday when the campaign’s top lawyer, Marc Elias, promptly used his testimony to slam Donald Trump and the FBI for how they responded to...
www.cnn.com
U.S. charges one American, four Chinese officials with spying
A U.S. citizen and four Chinese intelligence officers have been charged with spying on Chinese dissidents, human rights leaders and pro-democracy activists residing in the United States, the Department of Justice said on Wednesday.
US intel shows Russians fear Mariupol abuse will backfire
The U.S. has gathered intelligence that shows some Russian officials have become concerned that Russian forces in the ravaged port city of Mariupol are carrying out grievous abuses.
apnews.com
After Buffalo mass shooting, Hochul announces tougher gun measures in New York
Gov. Kathy Hochul said that the past few days she spent in her hometown of Buffalo in the aftermath of the shooting “have been among the most difficult in my life.”
www.politico.com
Biden visit to test South Korean leader’s tough talk on China
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol faces tricky balancing act between US alliance and trade relations with China.
Biden resists Ukrainian demands for long-range rocket launchers
Officials in Kyiv say the weapons could help in the fight against Russia, but the White House is worried about escalating.
www.politico.com
G7 pledges billions for Ukraine 'to get through this'
The Group of Seven agreed on Thursday to provide Ukraine with $18.4 billion to pay its bills, funds that Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said would speed up Kyiv's victory over Russia and which were just as important as "the weapons you provide".
U.S. warns of possible North Korean nuclear or missile test during Biden Asia trip
U.S intelligence shows there could be a North Korean nuclear test, or missile test, or both, before, during or after President Joe Biden's trip to South Korea and Japan starting this week, the U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan, said on Wednesday.
House passes domestic terrorism bill in mostly party-line vote
The House passed a bill mostly along party lines on Wednesday that seeks to create domestic terrorism offices throughout the U.S. government, just days after a gunman fatally shot 10 people in Buff…
thehill.com
Buffalo shooter let some people see plans just before attack
Shortly before police say he opened fire, the white gunman accused of killing 10 Black people at a Buffalo, New York, supermarket allowed a small group of people to see his long-simmering plans for the attack, which he had been chronicling for months in a private, online diary.
apnews.com
Dow tumbles 1,160 points in worst trading day since June 2020 | CNN Business
The old joke goes like this: Two friends are at a resort and one says, “The food here is really terrible.” The other replies, “And the portions are so small!” Today, it’s investors who dislike the taste of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate hikes — but seemingly want more anyway.
www.cnn.com
Great Replacement: The conspiracy theory stoking racist violence
Roots of white supremacist conspiracy theory are not new, but experts say ‘great replacement’ has become mainstream.
Tesla's Musk says he 'can no longer support' Democrats, 'will vote Republican'
Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk said on Wednesday that while he voted for Democrats in the past, he will now vote for Republicans.
DCCC head Maloney under fire for looking to battle progressive House colleague under new district map
With a newly redrawn congressional map being set Friday, DCCC head Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney is expected to switch districts, setting up a potential showdown with progressive Rep. Mondaire Jones
Russia expels dozens of diplomats from France, Italy and Spain
Russia said it was expelling a total of 85 embassy staff in response to similar moves from the three European nations.
Biden’s Cuba and Venezuela policy shifts leave Florida Democrats dismayed
The moves are the latest indication that the Biden administration is not interested in attracting the Hispanic South Florida voters he hemorrhaged in the 2020 election.
www.politico.com
US warns abortion ruling could increase extremist violence
The federal government is warning law enforcement agencies around the nation of the increased potential for extremist violence after the leak of a draft Supreme Court opinion striking down the constitutional right to abortion.
apnews.comMissouri governor OKs new US House map favoring Republicans
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson signed new U.S. House districts into law Wednesday that are expected to shore up Republican strength in the state's most competitive congressional district ahead of this year's elections. The new voting districts took effect immediately, meaning they will be place for...
Who is Raphael Warnock? What to know about Georgia's first Black senator running for reelection
Former pastor Raphael Warnock will need to fend off Herschel Walker to keep his Senate seat in November. What to know about Warnock.
www.usatoday.com
Ex-Minneapolis officer pleads guilty in George Floyd killing
A former Minneapolis police officer has pleaded guilty to a state charge of aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter in the death of George Floyd.
apnews.com
Kemp holding large lead over Perdue in Georgia governor race: Fox News poll
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp is 32 points ahead of former Sen. David Perdue in the state’s GOP gubernatorial primary, according to a new Fox News poll out Wednesday. Kemp was holding 60 percent of Geor…
thehill.comWhat the Republican primaries are telling us about Trump's influence in the GOP
The past three weeks of Republican primary elections have presented a muddled picture of former President Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP, leaving open the question of how strong his grip on the party really is.
Granholm 'bullish' on Congress passing clean energy tax credits
The clean energy tax credits were included in Democrats' broad budget reconciliation package that collapsed in the Senate last year.
www.politico.com
'Unacceptable, dangerous': AG Garland slams threats against Supreme Court justices amid Roe protests
Justice Department officials Wednesday discussed ongoing efforts to enhance coordination, intelligence sharing to bolster protection for the justices.
www.usatoday.com
Why we won’t know the winner of the Oz-McCormick showdown for a while
Pennsylvania is still processing thousands of mail ballots in the too-close-to-call race.
www.politico.com
Russia-Ukraine updates: 2 US veterans who joined Ukrainian forces missing
Updates on the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
Church shooting suspect was 'very negative,' complained about Taiwan government, acquaintances say
The California shooting suspect’s contacts shed light on his interactions, anti-police stance and beliefs about China-Taiwan unification.
www.nbcnews.com
Testimony: Clinton team did not approve lawyer's FBI meeting
Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign did not authorize a lawyer to meet with the FBI and provide information that was meant to cast suspicions on rival candidate Donald Trump and possible connections to Russia.
apnews.com
Heard's sister, friend back her assault claims against Depp
Amber Heard's sister has testified she personally witnessed Johnny Depp and Heard strike each other during a fight.
apnews.com
Investigation into mysterious pediatric hepatitis cases in the US expands
The CDC said it is working with health departments and clinicians nationwide to identify and investigate why the mysterious illness may be sickening children.
Mission failed: Bush makes Iraq-sized blunder in speech - Washington Examiner
Former President George W. Bush didn’t accomplish his mission Wednesday night.During a speech at a George W. Bush Institute event, the former president attempted to castigate Russian President Vladimir Putin but ended up highlighting the biggest mistake of his own presidency. Former President...
www.washingtonexaminer.comCelebrities? Outsiders? Oz, Fetterman (and Trump) put fame to the test in Pennsylvania primary
Senate candidate Dr. Oz is the latest celebrity to turn to a political career, from radio hosts to former presidents Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump.
Amazon discriminates against pregnant and disabled workers, New York alleges
A New York state agency has accused Amazon.com Inc in a complaint of discriminating against pregnant and disabled workers at its worksites, Governor Kathy Hochul said on Wednesday.
Roe v. Wade ruling has Biden administration bracing for nationwide wave of violence
President Biden's administration is bracing for a wave of violence when the Supreme Court rules on Roe v. Wade in June, Fox News confirmed Wednesday.
Abortion witness tells Congress men can get pregnant and have abortions - Washington Examiner
A witness who supports abortion rights during the House Judiciary Committee's abortion hearing Wednesday said she believes a person can choose what gender they identify as and that, therefore, men can get pregnant and have abortions. Aimee Arrambide, the executive director of the abortion...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Taylor Swift gets honorary degree from New York University
Taylor Swift has Grammys galore and now she has a new title — “doctor.” The superstar received an honorary doctorate of fine arts from New York University Wednesday, blowing kisses as the crowd roared when she walked toward the stage at a packed Yankee Stadium.
apnews.com
Inside the last-minute Trump endorsement that enraged Pa. Republicans
There was no soldier more loyal to the cause than Doug Mastriano. Trump and his lieutenants privately disparaged him anyway.
www.politico.com
Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Kentucky, Idaho and Oregon primary results
CBS News projects Chuck Edwards will win the GOP nomination in North Carolina's 11th Congressional District, defeating incumbent Rep. Madison Cawthorn.
www.cbsnews.com
FBI lawyer James Baker testifies he's 'not out to get’ Sussmann: 'This is not my investigation, it's yours'
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Former FBI General Counsel James Baker took the stand in the trial of Michael Sussmann on Wednesday afternoon, declaring that he is “not out to get Michael,” but is simply cooperating as part of Special Counsel John Durham’s investigation.
US Congress must understand ‘trauma’ of Nakba, Rashida Tlaib says
US legislator, who introduced resolution to recognise Palestinian displacement, tells Al Jazeera ‘Nakba hasn’t stopped’.
Analysis: For Riyadh, Hezbollah setback is rare good news from Lebanon
For Saudi Arabia, losses for Iran's allies in a Lebanese general election mark a rare piece of good news from a country where Tehran has long been ascendant, and could play to Riyadh's advantage in a regional tussle for influence.
Elon Musk says Democrats have 'become the party of division and hate,' repeats claim that he'll now vote Republican
Musk tweeted that he voted Democrat in the past "because they were (mostly) the kindness party," but added that he "can no longer support them."
US reopens embassy in Kyiv; Russian soldier pleads guilty at first war crimes trial in Ukraine: Live updates
A Russian sergeant pleaded guilty Wednesday at Ukraine's first war crimes trial to fatally shooting an unarmed civilian. Latest Ukraine news.
www.usatoday.com
Pentagon watchdog found Trump officials retaliated against Yevgeny Vindman - Washington Examiner
The Department of Defense inspector general found that various Trump administration officials retaliated against then-Lt. Col. Yevgeny Vindman, who, along with his brother Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman, played a key role in former President Donald Trump’s first impeachment.Yevgeny Vindman filed a...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
World’s oceans at most acidic level in 26,000 years, climate report warns
The world's oceans grew to their warmest and most acidic levels on record last year, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Wednesday, as United Nations officials warned that war in Ukraine threatened global climate commitments.
Sullivan: ‘We will not tolerate any aggression’ toward Sweden, Finland during NATO process
National security adviser Jake Sullivan on Wednesday warned the U.S. would “not tolerate any aggression” toward Sweden and Finland as the Nordic countries prepare to join the security a…
thehill.com
Cawthorn's out, Maloney's in a mess
www.politico.com
Desperate to leave: Sailors face lack of options when trying to quit the Navy
The number of sailors who deserted the Navy more than doubled from 2019 to 2021, highlighting the lack of options contract-bound sailors face when they’re desperate to leave.
www.nbcnews.com
House passes domestic terrorism bill after Buffalo shooting
The House has passed legislation that would devote more federal resources to preventing domestic terrorism in response to the racist mass shooting in Buffalo, New York.
apnews.com
Map: What will NATO look like with Finland and Sweden included?
Finland and Sweden have formally applied for membership of the 30-member military alliance.
Top Republicans Turner, Katko say 'disinformation' board pause 'best decision' by Biden admin
Top House Republicans are weighing in on reports that the Biden administration's "Disinformation Governance Board" is being suspended after heavy criticism over free speech concerns, saying it's the "best decision" by the Biden administration due to its clearly political purpose.
Progressives hoped for big 2022 primary gains, but the results have been mixed
The Bernie Sanders-aligned left blames a flood of super PAC attacks, but it has struggled to find a winning formula.
www.nbcnews.comKevin McCarthy Goes Off Over Peloton Memberships For House Staffers
The California Republican might be the first person to complain about free Peloton classes.
Barnette blames Sean Hannity for loss in Pennsylvania
Failed GOP Pennsylvania Senate candidate Kathy Barnette took to Twitter to blame Fox News host Sean Hannity for her primary election loss. “Never forget what Sean Hannity did in this race,” s…
thehill.com
Australia's economy holds plenty of pitfalls for election winner
Whichever party takes the reins of power at Australia's election on Saturday faces an economic road pitted with pot holes, from runaway inflation to rising interest rates, ballooning debt and an over-heated housing market.
Interstate highway shootings surged during pandemic, ABC News analysis shows
The U.S. has experienced a sharp rise in shootings along interstate highways during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to an analysis by ABC News and ABC's owned stations.
Saving California's last nuclear power plant
www.politico.com
Donald Trump’s alternative to Twitter, Truth Social, launches web app - Washington Examiner
Ex-President Donald Trump launched a web version of his social media network, Truth Social, which was previously only available via the Apple App Store. Many are comparing Truth Social to Twitter in the midst of Elon Musk's acquisition and the possible reinstatement of Trump's account. Read Full...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
In Ukraine, limbs lost and lives devastated in an instant
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — There is a cost to war — to the countries that wage it, to the soldiers who fight it, to the civilians who endure it.
apnews.com
Global stock markets fall as growth fears rattle investors
UK shares slide after more signs of waning consumer confidence trigger steep falls in US markets.
www.bbc.com
Suspect in Dallas hair salon shooting faces additional charges
The man suspected of shooting three women of Asian descent at a Dallas hair salon last week is facing additional charges in relation to the individuals who were inside the salon but were not injured by gunfire, police said on Wednesday.
Stefanik, Mullin introduce House resolution to expunge second Trump impeachment
House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik and nearly 30 other Republicans are getting behind a resolution that would "expunge" former President Donald Trump's second impeachment.
5 challenges awaiting Biden on his Asia tour
Historical tensions and Russia ties threaten Biden’s bid for Asian unity, as China looms.
www.politico.com
EU unveils $220bn plan to ditch Russian energy
Brussels plans to spend $314bn by 2030 to end its dependency on Russian oil and gas imports.
Elon Musk plans to ‘vote Republican’ and warns of political attacks on him
The Tesla CEO expressed discontent with Democrats amid speculation he is seeking to back out of his Twitter deal
Pennsylvania awaits results in key midterm U.S. Senate Republican primary
Pennsylvania's hotly contested U.S. Senate Republican primary between TV personality Dr. Mehmet Oz and former hedge fund executive David McCormick was still undecided on Wednesday and could drag on into next week, with a possible recount looming.
House passes bill to prevent domestic terrorism in the wake of Buffalo mass shooting | CNN Politics
The House of Representatives voted 222-203 on Wednesday to pass a bill aimed at preventing domestic terrorism and combating the threat of violent extremism by White supremacists.
www.cnn.com
With rakes and bulldozers, New Mexico battles 'beast' wildfire
Raking up dead grass and bulldozing a 20-mile-long fuel break, locals and fire crews in New Mexico on Wednesday fought to stop the devastating march northward of the largest active U.S. wildfire.
House passes bills to address baby formula shortage
Both bills, which now head to the Senate, are Congress' first legislative step toward alleviating the baby formula shortage.
www.cbsnews.com
Tops workers recount shooting, but some are determined to reopen for community
"I just don't want hate and evil to win over love and compassion. This is our community. This is our only grocery store in the community," said Fragrance Harris Stanfield.
www.nbcnews.com
US case of monkeypox reported in Massachusetts man
Massachusetts has reported a case of monkeypox in a man who recently traveled to Canada. Health officials said Wednesday they are looking into whether the case is connected to small outbreaks in Europe.
apnews.com
Portugal finds 5 monkeypox cases in men as outbreak spreads
Portuguese health authorities have confirmed five cases of monkeypox in young men, marking an unusual outbreak in Europe of a disease typically limited to Africa.
apnews.com
Buffalo mass shooting suspect allegedly detailed animal abuse in writings
The teenager suspected of killing 10 people and wounding three others at a Buffalo, New York, grocery store allegedly took part in animal abuse.
Blinken announces $215 million in new emergency food assistance for Ukraine | CNN Politics
The US will give Ukraine an additional $215 million in emergency food assistance to help the country battle the humanitarian crisis brought on by Russia’s invasion, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced Wednesday, as he called on other countries to swiftly act in order to tackle the...
www.cnn.com
Sen. Sullivan looks to curb power of giant investment firms embracing ESG - Washington Examiner
Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK) has introduced legislation to rein in the power over corporations enjoyed by the biggest asset managers, many of whom have provoked Republicans by embracing "Environmental, Social, and Governance" standards for businesses. The Investor Democracy Is Expected Act would...
www.washingtonexaminer.comApril saw record encounters at the southern border, but some data points dipped. Here’s what that means.
CBP officials encountered 234,088 people at the U.S. southern border in April. President Joe Biden has faced backlash for his immigration policies.
How long will it take for Finland and Sweden to join NATO?
And what does the process involve?
Tech companies removed the Buffalo shooting manifesto. A Texas law could make that illegal.
Conservative lawmakers' attempts to forbid “censorship” by social media giants are colliding with efforts to combat hateful rhetoric online.
www.politico.comMay 18, 2022 Russia-Ukraine news | CNN
The evacuation mission at the Azovstol steel plant in Mariupol continues, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said. It follows the end of Ukrainian forces’ “combat mission” at the complex. Follow here for live news updates.
www.cnn.com
Democrats warn abortion, voting rights at stake in Pennsylvania governor's race
After far-right candidate Doug Mastriano won the Republican primary for Pennsylvania governor, Democrats quickly warned voters that he poses a threat to abortion access, voting rights and election integrity should he win in November.
New 'disinformation' board paused amid free speech questions
The Department of Homeland Security has paused a new and controversial board’s work on disinformation and has accepted the resignation of its leader.
apnews.com
Durham-Sussmann trial: Judge ‘not inclined’ to declare mistrial, despite attempt from defense
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Defense attorneys representing Michael Sussmann in the first trial stemming from Special Counsel John Durham’s investigation into the origins of the Trump-Russia probe signaled they were contemplating moving for a mistrial— a request the federal judge presiding over the case...
Poll: Kemp leads Perdue by 32 points ahead of Georgia's GOP gubernatorial primary
Georgia's primary is next week.
www.politico.com
Burgess Owens laments Dems' lack of 'abortion equity,' says clinics target Black women
Utah Republican Congressman Burgess Owens slammed Democrats on Wednesday for supporting equity in "everything under the sun" except when it comes to abortion.
EXPLAINER: How mailed ballots slow results in Pennsylvania
Counting of mailed ballots in Pennsylvania is drawing renewed scrutiny amid a too-close-to-call U.S. Senate primary between Republicans David McCormick and Dr.
apnews.com
Brothers behind Democrats' 'crypto PAC' say they're actually pandemic-focused
Critics see a cynical ploy to boost the crypto industry, but Gabe Bankman-Fried says time will show they are really focused on preventing pandemics.
www.nbcnews.com
Baby formula shortage: Experts urge parents not to make homebrews
Desperate mothers are trying to mix their own baby formula, but experts warn of the dangers.
www.bbc.com
In meeting with US, Turkey gives mixed signals on wider NATO
The United States is struggling to get clarity from Turkey over the severity of its opposition to Finland and Sweden joining NATO.
apnews.com
High school students hospitalized after chemistry experiment ‘explosion’ - Washington Examiner
At least four high school students in Indiana were injured Tuesday after a chemistry experiment gone wrong. One student was hospitalized after a group of students at North Central High School in Terre Haute were injured in "some sort of explosion" that resulted from an unspecified chemistry...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Bolsonaro gov’t threatening Brazilian democracy, jurists tell UN
Legal experts urge UN special rapporteur to visit Brazil to report on president’s attacks on Brazilian judicial bodies.
Texas escapee cut metal, crawled under cage on bus to attack driver, officials say
Authorities released additional surveillance photos as they continued the search for convicted killer Gonzalo Lopez, who escaped last Thursday.
www.nbcnews.com
Martin Shkreli, infamous 'Pharma Bro,' released from prison early
Former pharmaceutical head Martin Shkreli was sentenced to seven years in prison, but released after five.
Ukraine round-up: Mariupol aftermath and Russian soldier's trial
Ukraine's first war crimes trial opens and the EU pledges to spend up to €300bn to end its reliance on Russian gas.
www.bbc.com
Sussmann-Durham trial: Marc Elias says he briefed Clinton campaign officials on Fusion GPS oppo against Trump
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Former Clinton campaign lawyer Marc Elias testified for more than three hours on Wednesday as part of the trial of Michael Sussmann, confirming that he hired Fusion GPS to run opposition research for Hillary For America during the 2016 election cycle, and revealing that he would...
Court clears path for long-blocked Tennessee school vouchers
Tennessee's highest court ruled Wednesday that Republican Gov. Bill Lee's school voucher program does not violate the state's constitution, clearing the biggest hurdle for a program that would let families use taxpayer dollars on private schools. The Tennessee Supreme Court's 3-2 decision...
'Success begets success': Progressives look for big boost from key primary wins
John Fetterman got the Democratic Senate nomination in Pennsylvania and progressives lead in several key House primaries, too.
www.politico.com
UN chief `hopeful' of Ukraine grain deal to help food crisis
UNITED NATIONS (AP) — With global hunger levels at a new high, the United Nations chief said Wednesday he is in “intense contacts” with Russia and other key countries and is “hopeful” of an agreement to allow the export of grain stored in Ukrainian ports and ensure Russian food and fertilizer have u
apnews.com
Former employer recalls Dallas salon shooting suspect’s erratic behavior
Police have said the man accused of shooting three at a hair salon had "panic attacks and delusions" around Asian people.
www.nbcnews.com
Schumer doesn't 'approve' of New York congressional map triggering infighting among House Dems
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Wednesday that he does not approve of New York's new congressional map.
Biden to meet with Democratic senators on student loan debt | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden will meet with Democratic senators at the White House Wednesday afternoon to discuss the issue of student loan debt, a source familiar with the meeting said.
www.cnn.com
Ukraine invasion could cause global food crisis, UN warns
UN chief Antonio Guterres warns that developing countries face disaster due to rising prices.
www.bbc.com
Senate unanimously confirms Brink as Ukraine ambassador
After three long years, the U.S. finally has a Senate-confirmed top diplomat to the war-torn country.
www.politico.com
Jan. 6 rioter whose Bumble match notified FBI is sentenced to home detention
Robert Chapman had bragged on Facebook that he was "INSIDE THE CRAPITOL!!!"
www.nbcnews.com
Did the fentanyl crisis thrive because the US ignored opioid abuse?
One in fourteen Americans are suffering from some form of addiction, according to the CDC.
Republican ‘big lie’ supporters triumph in sign of Trump’s enduring power
Hard-right candidates who challenged 2020 result win string of primary victories on a good night too for progressive Democrats
Alaska lawmakers OK payments to residents of about $3,200
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — The Alaska Legislature approved a state spending package late Wednesday that would pay residents about $3,200 this year after a vote that would have boosted the payout to about $3,850 narrowly failed in the House.
apnews.com
Republicans dismiss white supremacy charge but show unease about rhetoric
House Republicans are dismissing accusations that their leadership is harboring white nationalism amid criticism that heated political rhetoric on the right is partly to blame for the racist shooti…
thehill.com
CDC says dozens more cases of hepatitis in children are under investigation
As of Wednesday, 180 cases of unexplained liver inflammation in children have been reported in 36 states and territories.
www.nbcnews.com
US Embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine reopens after 3 months
Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine, is reopening after three months of suspended operations due to the Russian invasion
Buffalo supermarket at center of deadly shooting a community lifeline
Residents rely on Tops for community outreach, goodwill.
Mustache memo: Air Force could allow airmen to grow more facial hair - Washington Examiner
The U.S. Air Force announced it is in the process of updating its uniform and grooming policies, which could include an update to rules regarding airmen's facial hair. According to documents posted on an Air Force civilian media Facebook page, airmen will still not be allowed to grow beards, but...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Oregon primaries set up competitive governor's race
Oregon’s November gubernatorial election, which is usually a one-sided victory for the Democratic party, is setting up to be a competitive and contentious three-way race.
apnews.com
Senate confirms Brink as new US ambassador to Ukraine
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate confirmed Bridget Brink late Wednesday as U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, filling the post as officials plan to return American diplomats to Kyiv during the nation’s …
thehill.com
House passes spending measure aimed at addressing baby formula shortage - Washington Examiner
The House passed legislation aimed at providing $28 million in emergency funding to the Food and Drug Administration to address the nation’s baby formula shortage in a 231-192 vote Wednesday. The Infant Formula Supplemental Appropriations Act, introduced by House Appropriations Committee...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Blurry ballot barcodes delay Oregon House primary results
Issues with counting ballots in Oregon’s third-largest county could delay for days a definitive result in a key U.S. House primary. Democratic Rep.
apnews.com
Garland, NAACP president will meet on danger of white supremacy
Attorney General Merrick Garland will meet with NAACP President Derrick Johnson on Friday to discuss the danger of white supremacy and how it is being fed online. The meeting comes after a gunman k…
thehill.com
Biden invokes Defense Production Act to boost baby formula manufacturing to ease shortage
Parents have been struggling to buy formula for their infants since the closure of a key manufacturing facility in Michigan due to bacterial contamination.
‘Shattering the palace’: Young women take up Thailand reform call
As activists turn to new methods in campaign for change, Thai authorities ratchet up surveillance and harassment.
Prosecutor: Officer who shot armed motorist was justified
CORYDON, Ind. (AP) — A southern Indiana police officer who fatally shot a stranded motorist who opened fire on him was justified in doing so, a prosecutor said Wednesday.
apnews.com
Doctor who fought church gunman remembered as kind protector
Friends and colleagues of Dr. John Cheng say they were not surprised the quiet, kind and calm sports medicine physician saved others by rushing a gunman firing on a Southern California church luncheon
Blinken speaks with Brittney Griner’s wife as WNBA star’s imprisonment in Russia continues | CNN Politics
Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to the wife of detained American Brittney Griner on Saturday as the WNBA star’s imprisonment in Russia continues.
www.cnn.com
Doctor who fought church gunman remembered as kind protector
Friends and colleagues of Dr. John Cheng say they were not surprised the quiet, kind and calm sports medicine physician saved others by rushing a gunman firing on a Southern California church luncheon.
apnews.com
Juan Carlos: Spain's ex-king to return after two-year exile
Juan Carlos left Spain in 2020 after he was linked to an inquiry into alleged corruption.
www.bbc.com
Takeaways from Tuesday's primaries
Trump's high-profile endorsements had mixed results on Tuesday night and Republicans advancing candidates who questioned the eleciton results.
www.cbsnews.com
New inquiry into Australian mother convicted of 4 homicides
An Australian state attorney general has declined to pardon a mother convicted almost 20 years ago of smothering her four children to death and instead ordered a new inquiry into whether there could be a medical explanation for the tragedies
US stocks got close to a bear market. Here’s what that means
What is a bear market? Why is it called that? How long do they last? A guide to everything you need to know about bear markets.
apnews.com
Biden’s Asia trip shifts focus to China
President Biden will embark on his first trip to Asia as chief executive this week, an opportunity to focus more on the challenge posed by China since his administration has been consumed for month…
thehill.com
Conor Lamb's Pennsylvania Senate campaign criticized as 'one of the worst': report
With the landslide victory of Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman over establishment darling Conor Lamb, many are looking to autopsy the failed Lamb campaign for insight.
Texas authorities share more details on inmate's escape from bus
A Texas inmate serving a life sentence for murder allegedly managed to cut through a caged area of a bus transporting him before overpowering a bus driver and escaping.
Biden warns of 'another tough hurricane season' this year
Federal officials are bracing for another difficult hurricane season. President Joe Biden on Wednesday received a briefing about what Americans can expect this year.
apnews.com
White House shrugs off likely defeat of Biden-backed Oregon congressman
The White House on Wednesday sought to put a positive spin on the likely primary defeat of one of the only candidates President Biden has endorsed in the midterm election cycle. Press secretary Kar…
thehill.com
Senators announce bipartisan legislation to help veterans exposed to burn pits
The agreement paves the way for passage of a bill that has become the top priority of veterans' groups.
www.cbsnews.com
Taliban 'will likely loosen' al Qaeda restrictions in Afghanistan, US predicts
A new Inspector General report states that according to military officials, the Taliban will likely afford al-Qaeda greater freedom in Afghanistan despite a 2020 agreement with the U.S.
Harris tells Coast Guard grads rule of law is under attack
Vice President Kamala Harris told the U.S. Coast Guard Academy’s graduating cadets that they are starting their service at a crucial moment for the world.
apnews.com
Russia-Ukraine war in maps and charts: Live Tracker
As the Russian offensive enters its 143rd week, we track where battles are taking place and the human cost of the war.
The most striking aspect of Sweden and Finland’s application to join NATO | CNN
The most striking aspect of Sweden and Finland’s application to join NATO is how little debate there is about whether it’s a wise idea.
www.cnn.com
Hospitals ration CT scans, other procedures over shortage of contrast dye
A GE plant in Shanghai that makes the dye, which can save lives by revealing blood clots and tumors, temporarily closed because of a lockdown.
www.nbcnews.com
With Roe in doubt, some fear tech surveillance of pregnancy
Companies that collect data from the digital clues people leave online often know their most sensitive health information _ gleaned from web searches, health apps and location trackers.
apnews.com
Schumer pledges Senate vote on domestic terrorism bill
Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) told Senate Democrats at lunch Wednesday that he will schedule a vote next week on legislation to prevent domestic terrorism, a measure the House is …
thehill.com
NY agency files discrimination complaint against Amazon
A state agency in New York has filed an administrative complaint against Amazon, alleging the e-commerce giant discriminated against pregnant and disabled workers by denying reasonable accommodations and forcing them to take unpaid leave, Gov.
apnews.com
U.S. Marshals providing 'around-the-clock security' at Supreme Court justices' homes, DOJ says
The protections came after the leak of a Supreme Court draft opinion that would strike down constitutional abortion protections ensured by Roe v. Wade.
How a recount would be triggered in Pennsylvania’s GOP Senate primary | CNN Politics
Hours after Tuesday’s primary, Mehmet Oz and Dave McCormick are locked in a tight race for the GOP nomination for Pennsylvania’s US Senate race, which could be key to determining control of the chamber in November. The race, which is yet to be called, could be headed for a recount.
www.cnn.com
Mozambique declares polio outbreak linked to Pakistan
Health authorities in Mozambique have declared a polio outbreak after confirming that a child in the country’s northeastern Tete province had been paralyzed by the disease.
apnews.com
This state is enrolling fewer Latino and Black college students in remedial courses. It's working.
California schools are seeing better outcomes among Latino and other students as a coalition recognizes the community colleges leading the shift.
www.nbcnews.com
USS George Washington sailors hold out hope, await specific changes after Navy secretary’s visit
“I hope this will improve things,” one sailor said, following a rash of suicides among shipmates. “But the general feeling is still that nothing is going to change.”
www.nbcnews.com
Moms seeking formula tire of those who say, just breastfeed
Some U.S. moms looking for baby formula that is in short supply are dealing with another layer of stress — people asking why they don't just breastfeed.
apnews.com
Expert hired to run DHS’ newly created disinformation board resigns | CNN Politics
The disinformation expert hired to run the Department of Homeland Security’s newly created disinformation board has resigned after the department paused the board.
www.cnn.com
Hunter Biden's Hollywood lawyer teases counter-offensive against Trump allies
Kevin Morris and his team have been circulating provocative slides that tease a coming counter-narrative to political attacks against the president's son.
www.cbsnews.com
New York attorney general to probe social media companies’ role in Buffalo shooting
New York Attorney General Letitia James (D) is launching an investigation into the role social media companies played in connection with the deadly shooting in Buffalo, her office announced Wednesd…
thehill.com
Kansas Supreme Court upholds Republican congressional map
Kansas’ highest court has upheld a Republican redistricting law that improves the GOP's chances of flipping the state's only congressional seat held by a Democrat.
apnews.comKenney steps down as leader of Alberta’s Conservatives
Only half of the United Conservative Party voted in support of his leadership. 'I will respect the decision,' he said.
www.politico.comU.S. extends application deadline for nuclear power rescue program
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Department of Energy said on Wednesday it has extended a deadline by 47 days, to July 5 for nuclear power plants to apply for federal funding to keep them running. The first stage of the program is aimed at saving two plants in California and Michigan. The Biden...
Russian soldier pleads guilty at Ukraine war crimes trial
A 21-year-old Russian soldier facing the first war crimes trial since Moscow invaded Ukraine has pleaded guilty to killing an unarmed civilian. Sgt.
apnews.comJubilee tour takes a somber turn in Canada
Prince Charles and Camilla greeted by waning interest in monarchy and growing calls for a residential schools apology.
www.politico.com
Brazil's top court rejects leader's complaint against judge
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Brazil's Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected a complaint filed by President Jair Bolsonaro in which he accused a justice of abusing his authority, marking the latest escalation of confrontations between the far-right leader and the top court.
apnews.com
Nearly every state expected to see increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations, forecast shows
The forecast now predicts that nearly every U.S. state and territory is projected to see increases in new hospitalizations over the next two weeks.
COVID-19 vaccine no longer required, for Louisiana students
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Gov. John Bel Edwards’ administration has agreed to remove the COVID-19 vaccine from the list of vaccines students are required to get to enroll in school in the state, officials said Wednesday.
apnews.com
US health secretary tests positive for COVID on Germany trip
President Joe Biden’s top health official has tested positive for COVID-19, the latest member of his Cabinet to be infected with the virus. A spokeswoman for U.S.
apnews.com
Eric Clapton cancels shows after testing positive for COVID
Eric Clapton, a critic of coronavirus vaccines and pandemic restrictions, has tested positive for COVID-19 and canceled two upcoming European gigs.
apnews.com
COVID is rising in the Americas, virus 'not going away anytime soon' -PAHO
COVID-19 is on the rise again in the Americas as many countries have abandoned measures like masking and social distancing and many lag in vaccination rates, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said on Wednesday.
North Korea's suspected COVID-19 caseload nears 2 million
North Korea has reported 262,270 more suspected COVID-19 infections as its pandemic caseload nears 2 million.
apnews.com
A third of US should be considering masks, officials say
COVID-19 cases are increasing in the United States — and could get even worse over the coming months, federal health officials warned in urging areas hardest hit to consider reissuing calls for indoor masking
Long Covid symptoms in older Americans are often difficult to recognize, experts say | CNN
Nearly 18 months after getting covid-19 and spending weeks in the hospital, Terry Bell struggles with hanging up his shirts and pants after doing the laundry.
www.cnn.comWhite House resumes Covid briefings after six-week hiatus as cases rise
New head of Covid response calls on Congress for additional funding to pay for vaccines and treatments
Ashley Biden positive for COVID-19, skips Latin America trip
The White House says Ashley Biden, the daughter of President Joe Biden and Jill Biden, has COVID-19 and will no longer accompany her mother to Latin America trip.
apnews.com
Francona back managing Guardians following COVID-19 outbreak
CLEVELAND (AP) — Guardians manager Terry Francona missed so much time over the past two seasons that even a four-game absence was difficult.
apnews.com
2 years into COVID-19, some remain in complete isolation
Many disabled, elderly, or immunocompromised people continue to isolate amid the COVID-19 pandemic, two years after it began.
What to do if you test positive for Covid-19 now | CNN
Covid-19 infections are on the rise, with most US states reporting an increase in cases. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the highly contagious BA.2.1.21 subvariant of Omicron is now the dominant strain of coronavirus nationwide.
www.cnn.comWhy some people still haven’t gotten Covid
www.politico.com
World in no better place to fight pandemics than before COVID - review
The world is no better prepared for a new pandemic than it was when coronavirus emerged in 2019 and may actually be in a worse place given the economic toll, according to a panel set up by the World Health Organization (WHO) to evaluate the global response.
