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House Republicans push through defense bill limiting abortion access and halting diversity efforts
WASHINGTON (AP) — The House passed a sweeping defense bill Friday that provides an expected 5.2% pay raise for service members but strays from traditional military policy with Republicans add-ons blocking abortion coverage, diversity initiatives at the Pentagon and transgender care that deeply divided the chamber.
House narrowly passes defense bill, teeing up Senate action
Welcome to The Hill’s Defense & NatSec newsletter{beacon} Defense &National Security Defense &National Security The Big Story House narrowly passes defense bill The …
thehill.com
Trump's unprecedented campaign pitch: Elect me to be your revenge on the government
Donald Trump declared to his supporters earlier this year that "I am your retribution" and his base's appetite for that promised vengeance hasn't waned
US sending F-16 fighter jets to protect ships from Iranian seizures in Gulf region
A senior defense official says the U.S. is beefing up its use of fighter jets around the strategic Strait of Hormuz to protect ships from Iranian seizures.
apnews.com
White House says Republicans have turned defense bill into ‘rightwing wishlist’
The White House on Friday slammed congressional Republicans for “hijacking” the annual defense policy bill and loading it up with conservative amendments related to abortion, transgende…
thehill.com
Biden raises $72 million since announcing reelection, doubling Trump over same stretch
President Joe Biden's $72 million second-quarter fundraising haul doubled the $35 million raised by Donald Trump over the same period.
www.usatoday.com
Life-threatening heat baking the West and Southeast: Latest forecast
Life-threatening heat is baking 14 states from Arizona to Texas to Florida.
New Mexico's top election official met with federal prosecutors for 2020 special counsel probe
New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver has spoken with federal prosecutors as part of the special counsel’s probe into the 2020 election.
apnews.com
How Trump hopes to use 2024 bid to avoid facing trial in classified documents case | CNN Politics
Donald Trump is effectively arguing that for as long as he’s running for president, he should be spared from standing trial over his alleged mishandling of classified documents.
www.cnn.com
Appeals court halts order barring Biden administration communications with social media companies
The temporary administrative stay from the 5th Circuit will remain in place "until further orders of the court."
www.cbsnews.com
Decoding Biden’s China outreach ahead of climate envoy John Kerry's Beijing trip
Biden tries to convince China hawks, and Beijing, that talking about talking is worth it.
www.politico.comKentucky's ban on gender-affirming care takes effect as federal judge lifts injunction
Kentucky’s ban on gender-affirming care for young transgender people has been restored by a federal judge.
apnews.com
How McCarthy powered through a chaotic conference — again
Nearly every week features a familiar plotline for the House Republican conference: Right-flank pressure spurs last-minute scrambles that appear to put Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif) and GOP lead…
thehill.com
SAG strike: Actors join writers on Hollywood picket lines
The industry's biggest shutdown since 1960 has already impacted major films and promotional events.
www.bbc.com
Putin wants to attend an August summit. Host country South Africa doesn't want to have to arrest him
South Africa's deputy president says Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to attend an economic summit in South Africa next month but the country is trying to persuade him to stay away to avoid the legal and diplomatic fallout over his international arrest warrant.
apnews.com
Gilgo Beach murders: Suspect identified as Rex Heuermann, charged in deaths of 3 women
A man has been arrested in connection with the Gilgo Beach murders.
House passes defense bill in big win for McCarthy, House GOP
The House on Friday approved the annual defense policy bill in an unusually partisan vote after it was loaded up with conservative amendments, marking a big win for Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.…
thehill.comBiden making $20 billion available from 'green bank' for clean energy projects
The Biden administration is making available $20 billion from a federal “green bank” for clean energy projects such as residential heat pumps, electric vehicle charging stations and community cooling centers.
apnews.com
Biden admin to forgive $39 billion in student loan debt for 800,000 borrowers. Here's what to know.
The Education Department said it will begin notifying borrowers on Friday about the automatic discharge.
www.cbsnews.com
Manchin, Tester staff are the least diverse among Senate Democrats, survey finds
Senate Democrats released an annual survey this week that found Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Sen. Jon Tester of Montana have among the least diverse staff offices.
Chris Wallace spars with RNC chair over 2020 fake electors drama
CNN anchor Chris Wallace harshly questioned GOP chairwoman Ronna McDaniel over her participation in the scheme to use fake electors in the 2020 election Electoral College on his show Friday. In her…
thehill.com
UFO legislation to usher in new age of transparency: 'Long past time'
Senate passed legislation that says UFO-related records "should carry a presumption of immediate disclosure" and set up a review board to declassify documents
Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, testified before Jan. 6 grand jury, reports say
Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, testified that he was under the impression Trump believed the election was stolen.
www.usatoday.com
Guilty plea marks 7th conviction in southeast Louisiana dogfighting operation
A Baton Rouge man faces a prison sentence of up to 10 years for his part in a dogfighting operation in southeast Louisiana.
apnews.com
What to know about the actors' strike
The actor's strike will affect film releases and awards show campaigns.
'Cease and desist:' Lawyer demands Donald Trump stop attacking Hunter Biden
Attorney Abbe Lowell says Trump could incite violence against the Biden family; he suggests legal action if Trump doesn't stop.
www.usatoday.com
Trump asks top Georgia court to disqualify election probe prosecutor and toss grand jury report
Lawyers for former President Donald Trump are asking Georgia's highest court to prevent the district attorney who’s been investigating his actions in the wake of the 2020 election from prosecuting him.
apnews.com
Ex-State Dept COVID investigator calls newly-unredacted Fauci communications 'an extensive cover-up'
A letter from Dr. Anthony Fauci that was previously heavily redacted was released mostly unredacted and reviewed by Fox News' 'The Story' team on Friday.
What we know about Andrey Troshev, the man Putin proposed as the new Wagner boss | CNN
Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed to Wagner Group fighters that a senior mercenary named Andrey Troshev now command the private military group, according to comments the Russian leader made to the Kommersant newspaper.
www.cnn.com
House Democrats slammed for 'cherry-picked' border report ahead of Mayorkas hearing
House Oversight Chairman James Comer (R-KY) and Homeland Security Chairman Mark E. Green (R-TN) bashed House Democrats for a "cherry-picked" border report published ahead of a hearing with Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
www.washingtonexaminer.comMan who took photo from Pelosi's office is sentenced to over 4 years for Capitol riot role
A Chicago man who stole a prized photograph from then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s office during the U.S.
apnews.com
U.S. probing Exxon contractor in Guyana for smuggling drugs, gold
Two Guyana businessmen involved in a lucrative construction deal with Exxon Mobil face a U.S. investigation into suspicions of drug trafficking and other crimes. Now they may face U.S. sanctions.
Trump asks two more courts to quash Georgia special grand jury report
He also demanded Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis be disqualified from any case brought against him.
www.cbsnews.comDeSantis to become 1st GOP candidate to file for South Carolina primary during visit next week
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis plans to file his 2024 candidacy for South Carolina’s Republican presidential primary when he visits the first-in-the-South voting state next week.
apnews.com
Tucker Carlson, Pence clash over support for Ukraine
Former Vice President Mike Pence on Friday elicited boos at a major Iowa conservative gathering as he made the case for strong U.S. support for Ukraine. Pence sat down with former Fox News host Tuc…
thehill.com
Russia increasing unprofessional activity against U.S. forces in Syria
A senior defense official said Russia's recent increased activity is "qualitatively different" than in the past.
www.cbsnews.com
The rise and fall of gas prices in election years
Low gas prices have coincided with higher presidential approval ratings in recent years, meaning the prices at the pump can play a large role during election season.
Ex-Secret Service agent ‘not surprised’ about White House cocaine incident
Former Secret Service agent Evy Poumpouras said Thursday she’s not surprised cocaine was able to get into the White House, a day after the Secret Service ended its investigation into the situation …
thehill.com
DeSantis says if he had been president in 2020 Fauci 'would have been fired'
Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) said that Dr. Anthony Fauci would have been fired from his position as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in 2020 if he was president.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Zelenskyy's No. 2 on Ukraine’s challenges: 'Impossible is possible'
Ukraine marked a milestone last week, hitting 500 days of combat between the sovereign nation and Russia.
India's Modi and France's Macron agree on defense ties but stand apart on Ukraine
India is close to buying new French warplanes and submarines and played a starring role in France’s Bastille Day celebrations Friday.
apnews.com
Zelenskiy warns of Russian efforts to halt Kyiv's troops, general notes advances in south
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned Ukrainians that Russia was throwing all its resources into a campaign to stop Kyiv's troops from pressing their counter offensive and a top general reported new progress on the southern front.
GOP ad goes after Trump over Iowa governor attack
A Republican PAC launched an ad Friday going after former President Trump for his attacks on Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) for not endorsing a 2024 presidential candidate. The Republican A…
thehill.com
S&P 500 ends down with banks mostly lower, indexes post weekly gains
The S&P 500 ended down slightly on Friday, with bank and financial shares mostly lower on the day following quarterly reports that kicked off earnings season, but all three major U.S. stock indexes posted solid weekly gains.
Most abortions now banned in Iowa after Gov. Kim Reynolds signs 'fetal heartbeat' law
The law, which takes effect immediately, prohibits nearly all abortions in Iowa after doctors detect cardiac activity in the embryo, around 6 weeks.
www.usatoday.com
NOT REAL NEWS: A look at what didn't happen this week
Social media users shared a range of false claims this week. Here are the facts: President Joe Biden has not been impeached, the House voted last month to send articles of impeachment to its Judiciary Committee and its Homeland Security Committee for review.
apnews.com
‘Grave threat’: US, Japan, S Korea slam missile test by N Korea
US says commitment to security of South Korea and Japan is backed by ‘full range of capabilities, including nuclear’.
Biden's nibbles on young girl just his latest weird interaction with other people's kids
President Biden's frequent odd interactions with children have drawn attention once again following his latest instance of odd behavior toward a scared little girl in Finland.
'This is a crisis': Passport requests reaching record highs, Sen. Warner says
The Virginia Democrat called on the State Department to streamline the passport renewal process through hiring and a paperless system.
Ramaswamy: ‘Pervasive’ censorship caused Jan. 6 storming of the Capitol
Throughout his run, Ramaswamy has not been afraid to break from the mainstream with his positions.
www.politico.com
Nikki Haley: There's a cocaine cover-up in the Biden White House
NIKKI HALEY: THERE'S A COCAINE COVER-UP IN THE BIDEN WHITE HOUSE. Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley was one of several 2024 hopefuls who took part in the Family Leadership Summit in Des Moines, Iowa, Friday. The event is one of the most important of the year for social conservatives in…
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Ukraine war live updates: Controversial U.S.-made cluster bombs arrive in Ukraine; U.S. calls for Russia to renew Black Sea grain deal
The IOC says it is torn between two "irreconcilable" positions, and has not yet decided whether to invite Russian and Belarusian competitors.
Russia's Putin snubs Prigozhin, Biden jokes about poison
Russian President Vladimir Putin offered Wagner mercenaries the opportunity to keep fighting at a meeting just days after their failed mutiny but suggested Yevgeny Prigozhin be moved aside in favour of a different commander, the Kommersant newspaper said.
Stefanik takes aim at 'unacceptable' Blinken trip to China after foreign hackers accessed govt emails
Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is doubling down on criticism of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's decision to go to China even as the communist regime is conducting a hacking campaign against the U.S.
Trump blames Chris Christie for ‘mistake’ of nominating FBI director
Former President Trump said it was “probably” a mistake to appoint Christopher Wray to lead the FBI, attributing the decision partly to a recommendation from former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (…
thehill.comBiden and Democrats raised $72 million-plus for his 2024 race since he opened his campaign in April
President Joe Biden and the Democratic National Committee raised more than $72 million for his reelection in the 10 weeks since he announced his 2024 candidacy.
apnews.com
Latest news on Russia's war in Ukraine, Putin says Wagner 'simply does not exist'
Russian President Vladimir Putin told a Russian newspaper Thursday that the private mercenary Wagner Group "simply does not exist." Follow here for live updates.
Long Island Gilgo Beach murders suspect Rex Heuermann is arrested
Police in New York have arrested Rex Heuermann in connection to the Gilgo Beach murders, in which 11 sets of human remains were found strewn along a suburban beach highway in Long Island in 2010 and 2011.
www.foxnews.comFlorida woman gets 6 years in prison for attacking officers during the US Capitol attack
A Florida woman has been sentenced to six years in federal prison for attacking police officers during the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.
apnews.com
Trump again moves to quash Georgia probe into election interference
Former President Trump made a second attempt to quash a Georgia investigation into his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results in the state, filing a motion in the state’s supreme court and a…
thehill.com
Fear and voting in Cambodia’s one-horse election race
Seventeen parties registered for election alongside PM Hun Sen’s party, but the vote is almost impossible for him lose.
Democratic and Republican lawmakers react to the GOP's amendments to defense bill
House Republicans touted the amendments added to the National Defense Authorization Act, but Democrats had a completely different reaction.
www.usatoday.com
US Virgin Islands demands $190 million from JPMorgan in Epstein case
The U.S. Virgin Islands said it wants JPMorgan Chase to pay at least $190 million, and possibly much more, to resolve its lawsuit accusing the largest U.S. bank of ignoring the disgraced late financier Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking.
Appeals court pauses order limiting Biden administration contact with social media companies
A federal appeals court has temporarily paused a lower court’s order limiting executive branch officials’ communications with social media companies about controversial online posts.
apnews.com
Mike Pence raises just $3.8 million during second quarter in lackluster fundraising debut
Former Vice President Mike Pence's campaign and super PAC raised just $3.85 million combined in the second quarter of this year, an adviser said on Friday.
www.washingtonexaminer.comDid US deviate from usual sanctions after China balloon incursion? GOP chairman subpoenas documents
The House Foreign Affairs chairman has subpoenaed the State Department for classified documents that could indicate whether the U.S. deviated from its plans for sanctioning China after a Chinese surveillance balloon crossed over sensitive military sites across North America.
apnews.com
Where Republicans are soft on China
www.politico.com
Biden ambassador's ties to Hunter Biden, Romania raises questions about counsel on client
President Biden's longtime confidante, who is currently serving as Ambassador to the European Union, offered advice to Hunter Biden for his client who was on trial for corruption in 2016.
Tim Scott accuses the left of weaponizing race 'for power.' Can that win him GOP votes?
Republicans in 2024 will have the most diverse presidential field in their history amid a conservative-led backlash against racial equity policies.
www.usatoday.com
Hunter Biden’s lawyer tells Trump posts are putting family in danger
A lawyer for Hunter Biden has sent a cease-and-desist letter to former President Trump’s legal team, saying that Trump’s rhetoric is putting Biden and his family in danger. In the Thursday le…
thehill.com
Wagner trains soldiers in Belarus after foiled mutiny in Russia
The Belarusian defence ministry says the Russian mercenary group is working with its troops near the town of Asipovichy.
Bowel obstructions can occur after surgeries like Lisa Marie Presley's but deaths aren't common: Experts
Lisa Marie Presley's cause of death was revealed to be a small bowel obstruction from bariatric surgery. Doctors explained surgery comes with risks but deaths are rare.
‘View’ host complains that White House cocaine is 'fodder’ for GOP, suggests drug ‘planted’ to hurt Hunter
"View" co-host Ana Navarro argued that Republicans are using the White House cocaine scandal to go after Hunter Biden and his father President Joe Biden.
Putin says ‘Wagner does not exist’ after meeting with Prigozhin, commanders
Russian President Vladimir Putin said the private military contractor Wagner Group “does not exist” in a Thursday interview, accusing its founder Yevgeny Prigozhin of rejecting a proposal to keep t…
thehill.comChina accuses US of militarizing space following protest over Navy plane's Taiwan Strait transit
China is accusing the United States of militarizing outer space, a day after it protested the passage of a Navy P-8A Poseidon anti-submarine aircraft through the Taiwan Strait.
apnews.com
Tucker Carlson aggressively questions Pence over Jan. 6, 2021
Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson aggressively pressed former Vice President Mike Pence Friday about how he’d characterize the events of Jan. 6, 2021, when a pro-Trump mob invaded the Capit…
thehill.com
Butcher who charged at police, hurled a bow in Jan. 6 Capitol attack sentenced to 7 years
Kyle Fitzsimons, of Lebanon, Maine, was convicted of 11 charges related to the Jan. 6 Capitol attack.
www.usatoday.com
Trump team revels in video of dismissed DeSantis door-knocker
The presidential campaign of former President Donald Trump is reveling in a video showing a door-knocker for Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) acting erratically while attempting to win over voters.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Oilfield firm SLB halts all shipments to Russia
Top oilfield services firm SLB on Friday said it is halting shipments of products and technology into Russia from all its operations over an expansion of Western sanctions.
How Biden's latest student loan forgiveness differs from debt relief blocked by Supreme Court
The Biden administration announced debt relief for certain Americans with student loans.
www.cbsnews.comGOP attorneys general shift the battle over affirmative action to the workplace
Thirteen Republican state attorneys general are cautioning CEOs of the 100 biggest U.S. companies on the legal consequences for using race as a factor in hiring and employment practices.
apnews.com
Long Island's Gilgo Beach serial killings: Live updates on suspect Rex Heuermann's court appearance
A New York architect, Rex Heuermann, pleaded not guilty Friday after he was charged with six counts of murder in connection with the deaths of three of the four women known as the "Gilgo Four." Follow live updates.
DOJ opposes Donald Trump's request to delay criminal trial about classified documents
Justice Department lawyers urged a federal judge Thursday not to delay indefinitely Donald Trump's criminal trial about classified documents.
www.usatoday.com
Who is Fran Drescher, the sitcom star taking on Hollywood?
A former star of US sitcoms, Fran Drescher is the union chief leading actors into battle with streamers.
www.bbc.com
Workers bear brunt of brutal climate conditions
Welcome to The Hill’s Energy & Environment newsletter{beacon} Energy & Environment Energy & Environment The Big Story Workers face risks from summer climate disasters Worke…
thehill.com
Kirby claims anti-woke defense bill puts troops, military readiness at 'greater risk'
The Biden administration's National Security Council representative warned that moves against woke practices in defense bill could damage the military.
Europe still waiting on U.S. to formally approve F-16 training
A coalition of 11 nations, led by Denmark and the Netherlands, formally agreed to train Ukrainians to fly F-16s and potentially other fighter aircraft at the NATO summit.
www.politico.com
DNA from pizza crust leads to arrest in US Gilgo Beach murders
Prosecutors have charged architect Rex Heuermann with murder in three of the 11 unsolved deaths on Long Island.
Vivek Ramaswamy suggests 'real cause' of Jan. 6 riot was 'pervasive censorship,' not election lies
The GOP presidential candidate was asked about the attack on the Capitol during the Family Leadership Summit in Iowa.
www.nbcnews.com
Iowa 6-week 'fetal-heartbeat' abortion ban signed into law: 'To the smallest and most vulnerable among us'
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a 6-week 'fetal heartbeat' abortion ban during the Family Leadership Summit on Friday. A judge is expected to rule on whether the law can be enforced Monday.
U.S. appeals court refuses FTC request to pause Microsoft deal for Activision
A U.S. appeals court on Friday rejected the Federal Trade Commission's request to pause Microsoft's $69 billion purchase of "Call of Duty" maker Activision Blizzard .
Ohio GOP Senate candidate Matt Dolan has $3.9 million on hand after second quarter
Ohio Republican Senate candidate Matt Dolan has $3.9 million on hand after the second quarter of the year as he gears up for a hotly contested primary season.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Investor Bill Ackman, David Sacks' PAC donated to RFK Jr.'s presidential campaign
News of the donation comes after Ackman explained why he's promoting Kennedy's vaccine skepticism.
Mexican president continues attacking opposition candidate, despite electoral agency's order to stop
Mexico’s president plowed ahead with attacks against the opposition front-runner for the 2024 presidential elections despite a ruling by electoral authorities that he had violated equity and neutrality rules.
apnews.com
India blasts Chandrayaan-3 lander toward moon's south pole
India's space agency launched a rocket on Friday that sent a spacecraft into orbit and toward a planned landing next month on the lunar south pole, an unprecedented feat that would advance India's position as a major space power.
Federal appeals court rules Catholic school was permitted to fire gay counselor
Fitzgerald worked for 14 years as a guidance counselor at Roncalli High School when school officials discovered she was married to another woman.
www.usatoday.com
DeSantis faces potential make-or-break moment with first GOP debate
Ron DeSantis faces a crucial moment with next month’s first GOP primary debate coming amid signs he’s failing to gain traction against former President Trump. The Florida governor has signaled he w…
thehill.comPence raised just $3.8 million in Q2
The former vice president has struggled to gain traction in the crowded GOP field.
www.politico.com
House passes defense bill after GOP adopts abortion and transgender surgery amendments
The amendments would ban the Pentagon from paying for or reimbursing abortion-related expenses and transgender surgeries and hormone treatments for service members.
www.nbcnews.com
Lisa Marie Presley’s death brings attention to rare complication of bariatric surgery
Presley died in January of a small bowel obstruction, according to an autopsy report. Doctors say such risks associated with bariatric surgeries are very low.
www.nbcnews.com
US sets grim mass killings record in first half of 2023
Country endured 28 mass killings – a total of 140 victims – amid uptick in gun violence and calls for stricter laws.
Jesse Jackson, 81, to step down as Rainbow PUSH Coalition leader after more than 50 years
Prominent civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson is stepping down from the organization he created decades ago as he approaches his 82nd birthday in October.
Arizona GOP Rep. Eli Crane says he "misspoke" when he referred to "colored people" on House floor
His comment drew a swift rebuke from Democratic lawmakers and the Congressional Black Caucus.
www.cbsnews.com
Christie says he’d fight Trump: ‘I’d kick his a‑‑’
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) said he would fight former President Trump “anywhere he wants” and said if the two former allies were facing off in a match, “I’d kick his arse.” “Come on. …
thehill.comUpdated criteria for new FBI headquarters announced, boosting Maryland locations
The General Services Administration has announced changes in criteria for choosing a location for a new FBI headquarters.
apnews.com
These lawmakers bucked their party on an unusually partisan defense bill
The House passed its version of the annual defense policy bill on Friday, with four Democrats and four Republicans bucking their parties on the high-profile vote. The chamber approved the National …
thehill.com
Maybelline's partnership with bearded influencer draws mockery, outrage: 'Maybe he's born with it?'
Maybelline drew outrage after it partnered with a bearded social media influencer to sell makeup for the company, months after it did the same with Dylan Mulvaney.
Stock market today: A raucous week for Wall Street closes with a quiet, mixed finish
Another winning week for Wall Street drifted to a quiet close following profit reports from several big U.S. companies that topped expectations.
apnews.com
'Breakfast Club' trashes inconclusive White House cocaine investigation: 'No video cameras? Ain't no damn way'
"The Breakfast Club" ridiculed the inconclusive Secret Service investigation into cocaine found on White House grounds that was unable to identify a suspect.
Biden's new student loan plan an 'in-your-face response' to Supreme Court
The Biden administration's latest effort to forgive student loans for 800,000 borrowers received a cold reception from the president's political rivals, who accused the administration of attempting to defy the Supreme Court.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Senators move to require release of US government UFO records
The Senate in the coming days is expected to consider a bipartisan measure that would compel the U.S. government to publicly release records relating to possible UFO sightings after decades of stonewalling.
Blinken meets Wang Yi in Indonesia. But the region remains wary of the US-China rivalry
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has met China’s top diplomat to discuss thorny issues as part of efforts to nurture talks on the sidelines of regional diplomatic meetings in Indonesia.
apnews.com
Trump campaign calls Iraq veteran ‘lily-livered’ for flipping to DeSantis
Former President Trump’s campaign described Iowa state Sen. Jeff Reichman (R) as “lily-livered” for flipping his endorsement to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) following Trump’s attack on Iowa G…
thehill.com
Asa Hutchinson clashes with Tucker Carlson on vaccination status
Carlson cast doubt on the safety of Covid-19 vaccines when the 2024 presidential candidate confirmed he had been vaccinated.
www.politico.com
Two DeSantis campaign veterans leaving to help him from outside | CNN Politics
Two veterans of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ political operation are departing his presidential campaign to work with an outside group that will focus on boosting the Florida Republican in his race for the White House.
www.cnn.com
Gilgo Beach murders: Architect charged in Long Island serial killer case
Police say the married suspect in the long-unsolved Gilgo Beach murders is "a demon that walks among us".
www.bbc.com
‘An insult’: Teamsters slam UPS training non-union delivery drivers during deal talks
United Parcel Service (UPS) said Friday it will be training non-union delivery drivers in the coming weeks as the threat of a strike from tens of thousands of unionized workers looms closer. …
thehill.com
Ron DeSantis sued by ACLU for not holding a special election
The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a lawsuit against Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) for not scheduling a special election to fill the seat of Republican former state Rep. Juan Alfonso Fernandez-Barquin.
www.washingtonexaminer.comRussian antiwar activist allowed into Serbia after spending more than a day at the Belgrade airport
Serbian authorities have allowed into the country a Russian antiwar activist who was previously denied entry and had spent more than one day at the Belgrade airport.
apnews.com
Education Department announces student loan forgiveness for 800K borrowers
The action is a result of what the department calls a “fix” to income-driven repayment plans. It’s expected to provide $39 billion in federal student loan forgiveness.
www.nbcnews.com
Disney heiress arrested protesting private jets in ritzy New York community
A heiress of the Disney fortune was arrested in New York on Friday after she was protesting the use of private jets alongside climate activists near a ritzy community.
Troubled teen facility in Utah ordered to shut down after child’s death
A state panel determined Diamond Ranch Academy failed to seek medical treatment, or call a doctor, for a severely ill 17-year-old girl who died.
www.nbcnews.com
Rep. Ayanna Pressley on student loans, the Supreme Court and Biden's reelection - "The Takeout"
Massachusetts Rep. Ayanna Pressley said on "The Takeout" that Biden must find a way to help borrowers: "It is very consequential. There is a great panic financial panic for borrowers."
www.cbsnews.com
'Pay up!:' Hollywood actors, writers team on picket lines
Striking Hollywood actors joined film and television writers on picket lines for the first time in 63 years on Friday, cheering and chanting outside major studios with calls for higher streaming-era pay and curbs on use of artificial intelligence.
GOP mulls retooling message as inflation rate plummets
Republican lawmakers have made inflation and the economy their top attack against President Biden, but recent reports showing that annual inflation has dropped to 3 percent is forcing them to rethi…
thehill.comMississippi, under judge's order, starts allowing religious exemptions for childhood vaccinations
Mississippi is starting the court-ordered process of letting people cite religious beliefs to seek exemptions from state-mandated vaccinations that children must receive before attending day care or school.
apnews.com
Kindergarten teacher executed in China for poisoning 25 students, killing 1
A 40-year-old kindergarten teacher has been executed after she was convicted of poisoning 25 of her students' porridge and killing one who suffered multiple-organ failure.
Reserve troops who may be called up for Europe duty would serve 'administrative' functions, Kirby says
The clarification may have been an attempt to tamp down anxiety after Republicans railed against the executive order Thursday.
www.politico.com
House approves NDAA in near-party-line vote with Republican changes on social issues
The annual defense bill faces sharp opposition from a wide swath of House Democrats.
www.cbsnews.com
Trump slammed in new ad for attacks on Iowa governor: 'Only cares about himself'
A new political action committee slammed former President Donald Trump in a new advertisement on Friday for his recent attacks against Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA).
www.washingtonexaminer.comUS to reopen review of Nevada geothermal plant near endangered toad while legal battle is on hold
Federal officials have decided to reconsider the 2021 environmental review that cleared the way for construction of a geothermal power plant in Nevada where an endangered toad lives.
apnews.com
Pence raises less than $1.2 million during second fundraising quarter, lagging behind GOP rivals | CNN Politics
Former Vice President Mike Pence raised less than $1.2 million for his presidential campaign during the second fundraising quarter that ended June 30, according to a Pence adviser, lagging far behind several Republican rivals who have announced much larger fundraising hauls and signaling...
www.cnn.comPutin says he offered Wagner mercenaries the option to stay as a single unit
Russian President Vladimir Putin says he offered mercenaries from the Wagner private military company the chance to keep serving as single unit under the same commander.
apnews.com
DeSantis on 6-week abortion ban: ‘I had a lot of supporters who were averse to me on this’
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) acknowledged on Friday that he “had a lot of supporters who were averse to me” on the six-week abortion ban he signed into law earlier this year. “As…
thehill.com
Lawsuit against Chinese fast-fashion giant Shein accuses company of racketeering
Three independent designers have brought a lawsuit against the Chinese fast-fashion retailer and alleged it copied original work.
www.nbcnews.com
Ukraine's spymaster comes out of the shadows
For an intelligence chief running Ukraine's spy operations during war with Russia, Kyrylo Budanov, 37, has built up an unusually public profile that he has used to get his message out and to menace Russia from afar.
Wagner head Prigozhin rejected offer to join Russia's army - Putin
The leader of June's aborted mutiny did not want his mercenaries to become a regular unit, President Putin says.
www.bbc.com
ER doctors weigh in on what extreme heat does to the body
Emergency room doctors are rapidly cooling patients who are unconscious or in organ failure as temperatures in Phoenix are expected to reach 118 F during the weekend.
www.nbcnews.comMexico files border boundaries complaint over Texas' floating barrier plan on Rio Grande
Mexico's top diplomat says her country has sent a diplomatic note to the U.S. government expressing concern that Texas' plan to deploy floating barriers on the Rio Grande may violate 1944 and 1970 treaties on boundaries and water.
apnews.com
MTG to be on conference committee for NDAA after agreement with McCarthy
In return for her vote on this year’s National Defense Authorization Act, Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) offered Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) a spot on the House and Senate conference committee for the defense bill.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Russia flies surveillance flight over US base in Syria, official says | CNN Politics
A Russian surveillance aircraft flew above a US base in Syria for an “extended period of time” on Friday morning in what officials deemed an intelligence collecting mission, a senior defense official said.
www.cnn.com
The Black Mirror plot about AI that worries actors
As actors strike in Hollywood, unions say they want more protection from artificial intelligence.
www.bbc.com
New justice on Arkansas Supreme Court won't participate in case over education law
A justice Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders appointed to the Arkansas Supreme Court won't participate in a case over the governor's education overhaul.
apnews.com
Democrats and Republicans Agree Men Are in Trouble. They Disagree on What to Do About It.
A new POLITICO Magazine/IPSOS poll shows that people have very different ideas on the solutions to the challenges facing men and boys. And those differences are affecting how they vote.
www.politico.com
AAA follows Farmers in limiting coverage in Florida, citing natural disaster threat
AAA will not renew home and car insurance for some of its policyholders in Florida, citing increased natural disaster risk that it says makes the policies not worth providing. “Unfortunately,…
thehill.com
Iowa governor signs 6-week abortion ban into law | CNN Politics
Iowa Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a bill into law Friday that bans most abortions in the state as early as six weeks into pregnancy.
www.cnn.com
House panel advances funding bill with deep cuts to health agencies
Legislation to fund the departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Education, and Labor cleared a House Appropriations subcommittee by voice vote Friday, despite objections from Democrats over…
thehill.comVegas could break heat record as tens of millions across US endure scorching temperatures
Air-conditioned casinos offer a welcome respite for people visiting Las Vegas as the city is hit by an intense heat wave that's put nearly one-third of Americans under heat advisories and warnings.
apnews.com
Heatwave forces Athens to close Acropolis, U.S. Southwest broils
Greece closed the ancient Acropolis during the hottest part of the day on Friday to protect tourists as southern Europe suffered in a fierce heatwave, while more than 100 million Americans also faced a prolonged spell of sweltering weather.
RFK Jr claims Biden troop mobilization is prep for ‘ground war with Russia’
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., a Democrat running for president, claimed that President Biden's troop mobilization is preparation for a "ground war with Russia."
Study finds more clues as to why ‘SuperAgers’ have better brains | CNN
“SuperAgers,” people in their 80s with brains as sharp as those in the 40s and 50s, are more active and in better mental shape than typical older adults, study says.
www.cnn.com
DOJ announces charges against man arrested near Obama's house with guns and ammunition
The Department of Justice charged the Jan. 6 defendant who was found with firearms and ammunition in his van near former President Barack Obama’s house last month in a federal indictment.
www.washingtonexaminer.comBrazil wants 10-year pause on deep sea mining as UN agency under pressure to draft regulations
Brazil is urging a 10-year precautionary pause on deep sea mining in international waters just days after companies and countries were allowed to start applying for provisional licenses.
apnews.com
'Idiot' Jan. 6 rioter who stole John Lewis photo from Nancy Pelosi's office gets 4 years
Judge Beryl Howell said it was ironic that Kevin Lyons called police officers Nazis on Jan. 6 because the attack on the U.S. Capitol was “about the most fascistic” thing she’d seen.
www.nbcnews.com
Wagner 'does not exist': Why Putin claims a rift in the mercenary group | CNN
Now you see Wagner, now you don’t.
www.cnn.com
Mother of Gilgo Beach victim says suspected serial killer should 'suffer at the hands of other inmates'
“Death is too good for him,” said Lynn Barthelemy, whose daughter, Melissa, 24, was killed. “It’s too easy.”
www.nbcnews.comBiden administration unveils $39B of student debt relief as part of income-driven repayment fix
More than 804,000 student loan borrowers will benefit.
www.politico.comPakistan's military chief warns Afghan Taliban against harboring militants as attacks spike
Pakistan’s military chief has warned the Afghan Taliban of an “effective response” by his forces if they fail to stop harboring militants who plot cross-border attacks from Afghanistan.
apnews.com
For Cuban American voters in Florida, it’s Trump’s race by a mile
Trump has a strong grip on Miami’s Cuban population, leaving his Republican rivals — even the other Floridians — playing catch-up.
www.nbcnews.com
RFK Jr. says Trump ‘probably the most successful debater’ since Lincoln
Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. praised former President Trump on Friday, saying the leading GOP candidate is “probably the most successful debater in this country since Lin…
thehill.comGilgo Beach murders: Suspect identified as Rex Heuermann, charged in deaths of 3 women
A man has been arrested in connection with the Gilgo Beach murders.
Families of Long Island Gilgo Beach victims 'delighted' by arrest in serial killer case: 'Finally'
Ray Jones, attorney for the families of Shannan Gilbert and Jessica Taylor, weighed in after Rex Heuermann was arrested in connection to the Gilgo Beach serial killings.
'An ode to bigotry and ignorance': Democrats thrash defense bill loaded with GOP amendments
McCarthy faces a major test when the policy bill faces the full House today.
www.politico.com
US needs to speed up delivery of weapons to Taiwan, US general says
The United States and its allies need to speed up the delivery of weapons to Taiwan in the coming years to help the island defend itself, the top U.S. general said on Friday.
AP gets a rare look at Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant as it prepares to release radioactive water
At Japan’s tsunami-wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, giant blue pipes have been constructed to bring in torrents of seawater to dilute radioactive water under a plan to discharge the treated but radioactive wastewater into the sea.
apnews.com
SAG strike upends films and shows beyond Hollywood
The ripple effects of the shutdown are being felt in film hubs thousands of kilometres away.
www.bbc.com
After courtroom outburst, Florida music teacher sentenced to 6 years in prison for Jan. 6 felonies
The judge in the case called her a "one-person wrecking crew" on Jan. 6, 2021.
www.cbsnews.com
OpenAI CEO defends firm’s work amid federal probe
Welcome to The Hill’s Technology newsletter{beacon} Technology Technology The Big Story ChatGPT boss pledges to work with FTC The CEO of the company behind artificial intelligenc…
thehill.comGuatemala's corruption is thrust into international spotlight by the government's election meddling
The Guatemalan government’s clumsy interference with its presidential election has turned a global spotlight on a country whose struggles with deep corruption previously received little international notice.
apnews.com
Suspect charged in Gilgo Beach serial killings cold case that rocked Long Island
The suspect, identified as Rex Heuermann, of Massapequa, Long Island, is charged with multiple counts of murder.
www.cbsnews.com
Playbook: Why American politics is so angry right now
And more on our Deep Dive interview with Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.).
www.politico.com
'There is no Coco Chanel': Lawsuit accuses Shein of copyright infringement | CNN Business
Three graphic designers are suing Chinese fast-fashion giant Shein over what they allege is “egregious” copyright infringement and racketeering.
www.cnn.com
Even Democrats ‘split’ on Biden taking bribes in Hunter Biden's scams
People overwhelmingly believe it likely that President Joe Biden took up to $30 million in bribes in scams connected to first son Hunter Biden, and now even Democrats are starting to believe it's true.
www.washingtonexaminer.comA wave of political turbulence is rolling through Guatemala and other Central American countries
Central America is experiencing a wave of unrest that is remarkable even for a region whose history is riddled with turbulence.
apnews.com
Trump asks Ga. Supreme Court to shut down election interference probe as charging decisions near
Trump's lawyers asked both the Georgia Supreme Court and Fulton County Superior Court to disqualify District Attorney Fani Willis and quash a special grand jury's report recommending indictments.
www.nbcnews.com
Trump asks courts to throw out evidence and disqualify DA in Georgia probe of 2020 election aftermath | CNN Politics
Donald Trump is seeking a new court order to essentially neutralize the Fulton County investigation into the former president’s conduct after he lost the 2020 election, as potential indictments loom in Georgia.
www.cnn.comFor a group of Ukrainian women, painting is a form of therapy to help them cope with loss
For some Ukrainian women, painting has become a form of therapy to help them cope with the loss of their partners who died in the war. In a sunlit art studio in Kyiv, they create artworks depicting their grief.
apnews.com
Mexico says Texan buoys in Rio Grande breach water treaty
A floating barrier of orange buoys put in the Rio Grande by the Texan government to hinder migrants crossing into the U.S. violates a water treaty and may encroach on Mexican territory, incoming Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena said on Friday.
Biden administration wipes out $39bn in student loan debt
Republicans called the debt write-off for 800,000 borrowers "a slap in the face to hard-working taxpayers".
www.bbc.com
Democrats border report seeks to undercut argument for Mayorkas impeachment
House Democrats on Friday released a report that includes segments of interviews over the last three months with border patrol sector chiefs they say undermine Republican arguments there is a crisi…
thehill.com
Washington’s Favorite Teams — Now Partly Owned by a Foreign Autocracy
While Congress grills the PGA about its ties to Saudi Arabia, two Beltway-focused efforts by other Gulf powers are getting scant attention.
www.politico.com
Newsom threatens to fine school board in dispute over 'banned' books
Gov. Gavin Newsom released a video threatening to fine the Temecula Valley School District for “censoring" a social studies book that mentioned gay rights activist Harvey Milk.
California voters will decide whether to repeal state's Prop 8 same sex marriage ban in 2024 | CNN Politics
California voters will have the chance to remove language barring same-sex marriage from their state’s constitution in 2024’s general election.
www.cnn.comTrump’s 2024 media play: Less cable, more Barstool
The ex-president is hitting the podcast circuit and showing up at contact and combat sporting events. It’s part of a larger plan.
www.politico.com
Aspirin under increased scrutiny after medical study: Is it safe for everyone?
A study of 19,000 people has doctors taking a closer look at aspirin.
thehill.comHaiti human rights group warns kidnappings and killings are on the rise after a brief respite
A leading human rights group in Haiti is warning about an upsurge in killings and kidnappings as the U.N.
apnews.com
Actors vs. AI: Strike brings focus to emerging use of advanced tech
SAG-AFTRA has joined the Writer’s Guild of America in demanding a contract that explicitly demands AI regulations to protect writers and the works they create.
www.nbcnews.com
DeSantis rough patch tests conservative and donor patience with top Trump alternative
Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) was once a darling for conservatives who wanted an alternative 2024 candidate to former President Donald Trump.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Italy bear attacks: Animals behind Alpine attacks spared slaughter
A top Italian court rules a culling order for two bears should be suspended, backing activists.
www.bbc.com
How Lisa Marie Presley's weight-loss surgery contributed to her death
A severe complication from weight-loss surgery done years ago is the reason for Lisa Marie Presley's death in January at age 54.
apnews.com
Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson to step down as Rainbow PUSH Coalition president | CNN
Civil rights leader the Rev. Jesse Jackson announced plans to step down as president of the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the international human and civil rights organization he founded.
www.cnn.com
Biden administration forgives $39 billion in student loan debt to more than 800,000 borrowers
The Biden administration announced Friday that it will provide $39 billion in automatic loan forgiveness for federal student loans.
What we know about Rex Heuermann, suspect in Gilgo Beach murders that shook Long Island more than a decade ago
Rex Heuermann is an architect who founded the New York City firm RH Consultants and Associates in 1994, according to the company's website.
www.cbsnews.com
Many Gen-Xers facing retirement ‘nightmare’ due to lack of savings: report
Members of Generation X don’t have much stored in savings, according to a new report from the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS). The report found that the “forgotten generation” face…
thehill.com
Europe heatwave: More record temperatures expected
The European Space Agency says Italy, Spain, France, Germany and Poland may see extreme conditions.
www.bbc.com
Six months. 28 mass killings in the US. That's the worst yet, and all but one case involved guns
Unrelenting bloodshed across the U.S. this year has led to the grimmest of milestones: The deadliest six months of mass killings recorded since at least 2006.
apnews.com
GOP discord threatens Senate response to railway disaster
Sen. J.D. Vance insists the support is there. His colleagues say the bill needs significant changes before it could get enough GOP backing.
www.politico.com
Ex-Man City footballer Benjamin Mendy found not guilty of rape
The footballer was accused of raping a woman and attempting to rape another at his Cheshire home.
www.bbc.com
Winnipeg can remove blockade over indigenous murders, court rules
Protesters blocked the dump after officials said they would not search for the remains of two murdered women.
www.bbc.com
An airline fight over serving Congress' pet airport could torpedo major aviation bill
Segments of the airline industry are warring with each other, and some members of Congress, over whether to expand flight at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
www.politico.comFTC investigating ChatGPT creator OpenAI over consumer protection issues
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has launched an investigation into ChatGPT creator OpenAI and whether the artificial intelligence company violated consumer protection laws by scraping public data and publishing false information through its chatbot.
apnews.com
George Santos' campaign paid $85,000 to the embattled New York Republican this year, filing shows | CNN Politics
Rep. George Santos’ campaign paid $85,000 to the New York Republican in May, using donor money for a loan repayment, according to a Friday filing with federal election regulators.
www.cnn.com
Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu declares state of emergency over food
The president plans to provide protection to farmers targeted by notorious kidnapping gangs.
www.bbc.com
An Alabama woman is missing after stopping to help a toddler she saw walking on the interstate, police say | CNN
An Alabama woman has gone missing after telling a 911 dispatcher that she saw a toddler walking alone on the side of an interstate, according to local police.
www.cnn.comJPMorgan second quarter profit jumps 67% with a boost from First Republic takeover
JPMorgan Chase says its second-quarter profits rose by 67% as the nation’s largest bank made more loans to customers and took advantage of higher interest rates and its recent acquisition of First Republic.
apnews.com
Millions of people enter later life carrying an extra 10 to 15 pounds. Should they lose the weight? | CNN
Researchers have found that while obesity at any age risks harming health, a few extra pounds in later life isn’t cause for concern.
www.cnn.com
Opinion: As NATO shows unity, Putin has himself to thank | CNN
With the news on cluster munitions, the Sweden bombshell and the reaffirmation of a stronger NATO, many will want to take credit, but the one most responsible for making all this happen is none other than Vladimir Putin himself, writes Frida Ghitis.
www.cnn.com
Will Texas become too hot for humans?
Texas is in the grip of a relentless heatwave – but how much hotter could summers get in years to come?
www.bbc.com
US home prices still face a 'steep and sustained' decline this year, economist warns
U.S. home prices could still drop this year, according to a Pantheon economist, contrasting a narrative the housing market has recovered from higher mortgage rates.
The Crisis Over American Manhood Is Really Code for Something Else
Male malaise in the United States goes back to the founders, and it is a preoccupation of elites in particular. They might teach us something about this current wave of manliness panic.
www.politico.comIndiana police ask state to revoke license of treatment center where 3 patients died within a week
Northern Indiana police want state officials to revoke the license of an addiction treatment center where three patients recently died within a week, saying the center is endangering its residents and placing an undue strain on law enforcement.
apnews.com
Top longtime Biden aide leaving White House at the end of July | CNN Politics
White House director of legislative affairs Louisa Terrell, one of President Joe Biden’s longest serving aides, is planning to leave the White House at the end of this month, CNN has learned.
www.cnn.comResidents of PFAS-polluted island file $42.4 million in claims against Wisconsin city
Residents of an island polluted with PFAS chemicals have filed claims demanding more than $40 million from a western Wisconsin city they consider responsible for the contamination.
apnews.com
State Farm doubles down on Florida after Farmers Insurance pulls back
State Farm Insurance says it has no plans to leave Florida after competitor Farmers Insurance became the latest insurer to reduce coverage in the state.
Are you owed a slice of the $100 million fine Bank of America has to pay? | CNN Business
Bank of America was fined $250 million this week by US federal regulators for allegedly harming customers by double-dipping on fees, withholding credit card rewards and opening fake accounts.
www.cnn.com
Northwestern fires baseball coach amid misconduct allegations days after football coach dismissed over hazing scandal
Foster's alleged bullying and verbally abusive behavior prompted a human resources investigation by the university.
www.cbsnews.com
Artificial Intelligence | Fox News
Artificial intelligence, or AI, is a form of processing that simulates human and animal intelligence via machines or computer systems to carry out data analytics, language processing, speech recognition and computer vision.
Portrait of the Modern American Man — In Nurse’s Scrubs
Eric Cromer lost his job on the GM assembly line. The second career he found placed him at the center of a debate about what it means to be a man in today’s economy.
www.politico.com
