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'Rip it up': Inside the dramatic unraveling of Hunter Biden's plea deal
A dramatic scene unfolded in federal court in Delaware on Wednesday as a plea deal struck between prosecutors and President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden fell apart -- for now -- amid the judge's concerns over the terms of the agreement.Senate GOP leader McConnell briefly leaves news conference after freezing up mid-sentence
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell briefly left his own press conference Wednesday after stopping his remarks mid-sentence and staring off into space for several seconds, appearing to be disoriented.
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Judge who oversaw Biden court hearing was appointed by Trump and backed by Democrats | CNN Politics
The federal judge who oversaw a dramatic day in court that ended with Hunter Biden’s plea deal being placed on hold is a Donald Trump appointee who was confirmed with Democratic support in 2018.
www.cnn.comHunter Biden's plea deal on hold after federal judge raises concerns over the terms of the agreement
The plea deal in Hunter Biden’s criminal case unraveled during a court hearing Wednesday after a federal judge raised concerns about the terms of the agreement that has infuriated Republicans who believe the president’s son is getting preferential treatment.
apnews.comWhistleblower tells Congress the US is concealing 'multi-decade' program that captures UFOs
The U.S. is concealing a longstanding program that retrieves and reverse engineers unidentified flying objects, a former Air Force intelligence officer testified in front of Congress.
apnews.com
Jason Aldean removes Black Lives Matter protest clip from 'Try That in a Small Town' music video
A scene depicting Fox 5 news coverage of a BLM protest in Atlanta projected onto a Tennessee courthouse, the site of a 1927 lynching, is now absent from the official video.
www.nbcnews.comGiuliani concedes he made public comments falsely claiming Georgia election workers committed fraud
Rudy Giuliani has conceded he made public comments falsely claiming two Georgia election workers committed ballot fraud during the 2020 presidential race.
apnews.com
Latest news on Russia's war in Ukraine, Russian losses in Bakhmut
Russia says that Ukraine has launched a major offensive in the Zaporizhzhia region. Ukraine has not commented, but its troops have made moderate advances in the area in recent days. Follow here for live updates.
'Rip it up': Inside the dramatic unraveling of Hunter Biden's plea deal
U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika scrutinized nearly every facet of Hunter Biden's plea deal, prompting shrugs, exhales, frantic glances and expressions of discontent
DeSantis appointees reach deal with Disney World's firefighters, capping years of negotiations
The board of Walt Disney World’s governing district now filled with Gov. Ron DeSantis appointees has approved a contract for its firefighters.
apnews.com
Russia blames 'unprecedented' US pressure as African leaders skip summit: Live Ukraine updates
Less than two dozen heads of state from Africa will be attending a summit in Russia that kicks off Thursday. Updates.
www.usatoday.com
UFO hearing key takeaways: What a whistleblower told Congress about UAP
A former military intelligence officer-turned-whistleblower told House lawmakers that Congress is being kept in the dark about unidentified anomalous phenomena.
www.cbsnews.comUkrainian security service claims responsibility for October Crimea bridge blast
Ukraine’s security service has claimed responsibility for the first time for an explosion that badly damaged the Kerch Bridge linking the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula with Russia.
apnews.com
UFO whistleblower makes explosive claims, but wary of divulging details
Former intelligence official David Grusch made far-reaching claims about possible U.S. government cover-ups of contact with UFOs and non-human pilots in a House Oversight subcommittee hearing on We…
thehill.com
Why do Kevin McCarthy's Republicans want to impeach Joe Biden now?
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is talking about the possibility of an inquiry, but wants more evidence.
www.bbc.com
Biden chooses former Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley to lead the Social Security Administration
President Joe Biden has nominated former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley to lead the Social Security Administration.
apnews.com
Powell: Housing market has ‘a ways to go’ before prices cool
Home prices are nearing their peak, but the housing market could have “a ways to go” before balancing out, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said on Tuesday after the central bank’s decision to r…
thehill.com
Ukraine counteroffensive is moving, US says while pledging support
Ukraine's counteroffensive is "not a stalemate" even if it is not progressing fast enough, White House national security spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Wednesday.
FTC’s Lina Khan claps back at Jim Jordan
An escalating war of words could distract from the Biden administration’s goal of aggressive antitrust enforcement.
www.politico.com
McConnell says he's 'fine' after freezing during news conference | CNN Politics
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters that he’s “fine,” after freezing during a news conference on Wednesday.
www.cnn.com3 US Marines found at North Carolina gas station died of carbon monoxide poisoning, officials say
Three U.S. Marines found unresponsive in a car at a North Carolina gas station had died of carbon monoxide poisoning.
apnews.com
Hunter Biden live updates: No plea as judge refuses to 'rubber-stamp' deal
President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden is appearing in a Delaware courthouse Wednesday to formally agree to the plea deal he struck last month with federal prosecutors.
House GOP leadership insists they can both investigate Biden and govern | CNN Politics
House Republican leaders are insisting they can pursue investigations targeting the Biden administration and the president while still delivering on their legislative agenda. As a potential impeachment inquiry looms, however, leadership faces major challenges to keep their narrow majority united...
www.cnn.comFederal Reserve raises its key rate for 11th time by a quarter-point in its drive to slow inflation
The Federal Reserve raised its key interest rate for the 11th time in 17 months, a streak of hikes that are intended to curb inflation but that also carry the risk of going too far and triggering a recession.
apnews.com
Hunter Biden plea: Foreign agent revelation helps unravel 'sweetheart' deal
Hunter Biden's plea bargain with U.S. Attorney David Weiss fell apart Wednesday after a federal judge pressed both parties during a hearing about the prospect of President Joe Biden's son facing future charges, including failing to register as a foreign agent.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
UK lawmakers say Wagner Group is like an ‘international criminal mafia’
The British Parliament warned that the mercenary organization the Wagner Group could pose a serious threat to the West in a report released Wednesday. A key force in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, t…
thehill.comNew Mexico lifts debt-based suspensions of driver's licenses for 100,000 residents
New Mexico’s motor vehicle division has lifted the suspension of driver’s licenses for more than 100,000 residents under new anti-poverty legislation.
apnews.com
Hunter Biden enters not guilty plea after deal falls apart
The judge deferred the decision on the plea deal, and the ruling could now be delayed for weeks.
www.cbsnews.comCongressional Budget Office predicts slower economic growth and 4.7% unemployment into 2024
The Congressional Budget Office reports that economic and job growth so far this year has been stronger than forecast in February, but an updated outlook sees parts of the economy as weakening through 2024.
apnews.com
Bipartisan Senate bill aims to crack down on hotel 'resort fees'
The legislation from Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Jerry Moran echoes President Joe Biden's call to require hotels to post their full prices up front.
www.nbcnews.com
Fed raises interest rates 0.25%, intensifying inflation fight despite cooling prices
The Federal Reserve has imposed its most aggressive series of rate hikes in 40 years.
Michigan bans use of conversion therapy on LGBTQ youth under measure signed by governor
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation Wednesday that prohibits mental health professionals from using so-called conversion therapy on LGBTQ minors.
apnews.com
Kevin Spacey acquitted of all nine sexual offence charges in London trial
A tearful Kevin Spacey said he was "humbled" after a jury in a London court found him not guilty on Wednesday of carrying out multiple sex assaults on four men.
Rudy Giuliani concedes he made false statements about two Georgia election workers
Former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani admitted he made false statements about two Georgia election workers to resolve their litigation against him.
www.usatoday.com
No, image doesn't show sleeping US senators; it's UK's House of Lords | Fact check
An image spreading online claims to show senators sleeping on the Senate floor, but it actually depicts the United Kingdom's House of Lords.
www.usatoday.com
DeSantis to attend fundraiser on Cape Cod, near site of migrant flight
The $3,300-per-person fundraiser is being hosted by several big-name Massachusetts donors.
www.politico.com
Analysis: Israel’s Supreme Court battle takes a pause but is far from over
Court agrees to hear an appeal against law limiting its powers passed this week, but hearing won’t be until September.
Hunter Biden pleads 'not guilty' as plea deal falls apart during Delaware court appearance
Hunter Biden's plea deal fell apart during his first court appearance Wednesday morning and he pleaded “not guilty" as federal prosecutors confirmed the president's son is still under federal investigation.
African leaders arrive in Russia for summit as Kremlin seeks allies amid fighting in Ukraine
Some African leaders have arrived in Russia for a summit with President Vladimir Putin as the Kremlin seeks more allies amid the fighting in Ukraine.
apnews.com
AI could take more jobs from women than men in next decade, experts predict
Experts are predicting generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automation could take more jobs from women than men in the next decade, according to a new study from the McKinsey Global Institut…
thehill.com
Body found on grounds of Arizona State Capitol
Authorities say a body has been found on the grounds of the Arizona State Capitol in downtown Phoenix. Phoenix police discovered the body just before 7 a.m.
apnews.com
Mitch Daniels scoffs at heading a No Labels’ presidential bid
The former Indiana governor would, in theory, fit the bill. But he says he’s ‘too smart’ to say yes.
www.politico.com
DeSantis staffer who shared video featuring neo-Nazi symbol no longer with campaign | CNN Politics
A staffer for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is no longer with the 2024 presidential campaign just days after he retweeted a video featuring White supremacist imagery.
www.cnn.com
Sarah Bedford says Hunter Biden courtroom appearance 'corroborates' IRS whistleblower testimony
Washington Examiner investigative reporter Sarah Bedford stated Wednesday that Hunter Biden's court appearance "corroborates" what two Internal Revenue Service whistleblowers have recently stated.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Conservatives are changing K-12 education, and one Christian college is at the center
Republican officials are turning to Hillsdale College in Michigan for teacher training, textbook reviews and a curriculum that celebrates American patriotism.
www.nbcnews.com
Niger’s president ‘held by guards’ in apparent coup attempt
Presidency says army ready to attack if guards do not back down, as regional bloc sends diplomat on mediation mission.
North Carolina cancels incentives deal with Allstate for not attracting enough jobs in Charlotte
Insurance giant Allstate won't be getting certain incentives from North Carolina that were part of a plan six years ago to add more than 2,200 workers in Charlotte.
apnews.com
GOP rep: McCarthy impeachment talk a ‘shiny object’ to distract from spending
Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) criticized House Speaker Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s (R-Calif.) recent comments on impeaching President Biden, saying the remarks were a political move meant to distract from budg…
thehill.com
McConnell freezes during weekly press conference, returns after stepping away
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, 81, froze while giving his weekly press conference.
UFO whistleblower testifies his life was threatened over secret alien tech retrieval
Three whistleblowers and retired military service members testified before the House's Oversight Committee on Wednesday about their run-ins and information about UFOs.
UFO witnesses testify about technology that 'defies current material' on Earth
One witness testified Wednesday that the Department of Defense has recovered foreign aircraft and extracted nonhuman biological entities from them over decades of programs designed to retrieve what the military calls unidentified aerial phenomena covertly.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Need extra money? Poll workers are in demand and getting a pay raise before the 2024 election.
After facing harassment and threats in 2020, Americans who volunteer to oversee and administer our elections are now being offered pay raises.
www.usatoday.com
Medicaid expansion in North Carolina will begin Oct. 1, if lawmakers can enact a budget
Gov. Roy Cooper's administration has set October 1 as the date when more of North Carolina's low-income adults can begin enrolling in Medicaid.
apnews.com
‘Don’t see the point of it’: Consumers feel the pinch as Fed raises rates again
Interest rates are now at a 22-year high, and Americans are starting to feel that the Federal Reserve is going overboard with its rate hikes. Despite one of the fastest rate-raising cycles on recor…
thehill.com
DeSantis-appointed board eyes millions of dollars in cuts to Disney’s district
On the chopping block is $8 million in taxpayer dollars for the theme park’s law enforcement.
www.politico.com
Hunter Biden hearing ends after judge is not ready to accept revised plea deal | CNN Politics
A plea deal between President Joe Biden’s son Hunter Biden and the Justice Department is on hold after a dramatic court hearing Wednesday.
www.cnn.comLawsuit over Kansas IDs would be a 'morass' if transgender people intervene, attorney general says
The Republican attorney general in Kansas is arguing that a legal morass would result if transgender Kansas residents are allowed to intervene in a lawsuit that seeks to force the state to list their sex assigned at birth on their driver's licenses.
apnews.com
Former Ohio congressman Tim Ryan jumps back into national fray, launches new group
In an exclusive interview with CBS News, Ryan said his efforts in the coming year will be focused solely on convening policy events and on promoting an inclusive, pro-democracy dialogue among voters.
www.cbsnews.com
Fed staff no longer predicting a recession, Powell says
In a big reversal from just months ago, Federal Reserve staff no longer expect a recession, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell said Wednesday.
www.washingtonexaminer.comNew electric vehicle charging network being built by major automakers could lure more buyers to EVs
The announcement Wednesday that seven automakers will build a large North American electric vehicle charging network should pull people off the sidelines to at least consider switching from gas-powered vehicles.
apnews.comProsecutors Follow Multiple Strands as Jan. 6 Indictment Decision Looms
Even as the special counsel, Jack Smith, appears to be edging closer toward bringing charges against former President Donald Trump in connection with his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, prosecutors have been continuing to investigate multiple strands of the case. In recent weeks, Smith’s...
DeSantis floats RFK Jr. to run CDC or FDA
Florida governor and GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis said Wednesday that he would consider putting Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is running for the White House as a Democrat, in charge of one …
thehill.comWhite House nominates Allvin as next Air Force chief
The White House has nominated a career airlift and cargo pilot with key deployments in Afghanistan and Europe to serve as the Air Force's next top general.
apnews.com
UK government is heavily criticized for underestimating Wagner group's actions around the world | CNN
The United Kingdom government has been heavily criticized by Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee for underestimating the growth of Russia’s Wagner private mercenary group, despite it posing a major threat to the country’s interests.
www.cnn.com
'Investigate these claims': UFO transparency at center of House hearing
"I am asking Congress to hold our government to this standard and thoroughly investigate these claims," former intelligence official David Grusch testified Wednesday.
Chris Christie says video of Mark Meadows not commenting looks 'like somebody who is cooperating' with Trump probe
Trump White House aides, including Meadows, were ordered by a federal judge to testify before the federal grand jury investigating Trump's role in the Jan. 6 insurrection and efforts to reverse the 2020 election.
www.nbcnews.comNew SEC rule requires public companies to disclose cybersecurity breaches in 4 days
The Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted rules to require public companies to disclose within four days all cybersecurity breaches that could affect their bottom lines.
apnews.com
Sicily airport chaos puts Italy's tourism ambitions to the test
A fire early last week at Sicily's main airport is still causing massive disruption for visitors to the island, laying bare the disorganisation and poor infrastructure that challenge Italy's tourism ambitions.
White House says more protocols, training underway following Biden dog biting incidents
President Joe Biden's German Shepherd Commander was involved in ten biting incidents at the White House, according to reports.
www.usatoday.com
Elon Musk's X takes @X handle from longtime Twitter user
The sudden takeover of the handle highlights the branding and intellectual property rights issues that Musk’s company now has to deal with.
www.nbcnews.com
Colorado woman found alive after ex stalked, kidnapped her: Police
Jessica Meise has been found alive after she was kidnapped by her ex, 43-year-old Lance Foster. Foster has been arrested and is in police custody.
Biden law could set up production and demand clash for electric vehicles
Electric vehicle sales and manufacturing demands are on the rise after President Joe Biden pushed for the largest electrification transition at the federal level.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Iranian chess player who removed hijab gets Spanish citizenship
An Iranian chess player who moved to Spain in January after she competed without a hijab and had an arrest warrant issued against her at home has been granted Spanish citizenship, Spain said on Wednesday.
The Very Private Life of Melania Trump
Since leaving the White House, Melania Trump’s world has gotten smaller. Just how she likes it. Cloistered behind the gates of her three homes, she sticks to a small circle — her son, her elderly parents and a handful of old friends. She visits her hairdressers, consults with Hervé Pierre, her...
DeSantis: Harris trying to push ‘fake narrative’ about Florida Black history curriculum
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) said Vice President Harris is trying to push a “fake narrative” about Florida’s Black history school curriculum — which has sparked criticism across …
thehill.comFormer RNC Chair Names The Chilling Lesson Donald Trump Has Learned For 2024
The former president won't let one thing happen again, predicted ex-GOP leader Michael Steele.
OnPolitics: Hunter Biden has surprising day in court after plea deal falters
Hunter Biden’s day in court hasn’t gone as expected.
www.usatoday.com
Hunter Biden: what happened with his plea deal and why?
Joe Biden’s son unexpectedly pleaded not guilty to tax and gun charges after judge raised questions over plea agreement
Tennessee educators file lawsuit challenging law limiting school lessons on race, sex and bias
Tennessee educators are pushing back again a ban on the teachings of certain concepts on race, gender and bias in classrooms by filing a federal lawsuit challenging the legality of the law.
apnews.com
Giuliani concedes he made defamatory statements about Georgia election workers | CNN Politics
Rudy Giuliani concedes he made defamatory statements about Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss in an effort to resolve their lawsuit against him and to satisfy a judge who has considered sanctioning him.
www.cnn.com
Mitch McConnell freezes at Senate press conference, is briefly unable to speak
People standing near Sen. Mitch McConnell quickly realized what was happening, and escorted the Kentucky Republican, who turned 81 this year, off to the side.
Rudy Giuliani admits to making "false" statements about 2 former Georgia election workers
Former Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea "Shaye" Moss filed a defamation lawsuit against Rudy Giuliani in December 2021.
www.cbsnews.com
McCarthy walks balancing act one more time before long summer
House Republicans are set to meet as a group one final time ahead of the August recess on Wednesday amid tensions over the annual appropriations process, a push to expunge former President Trump’s …
thehill.comAfter Boeing Max crashes, US regulators detail safety information that aircraft makers must disclose
The Federal Aviation Administration says it's giving manufacturers more guidance on safety information that they must disclose when seeking certification of new large planes.
apnews.com
Democrats re-introduce legislation to end legacy admissions in colleges
The Department of Education announced a probe into legacy admissions at Harvard University earlier this week.
www.nbcnews.com
US officials to meet Taliban representatives in Doha
State Department says diplomats will discuss humanitarian issues, ‘critical interests’ with Afghan group officials.
Comer says House investigations into Hunter Biden given a 'lot of credibility' after plea deal crumbles
Rep. James Comer said he believes the investigations into Hunter Biden by House Republicans have been given more credibility after a plea deal for the president's son fell apart.
North Korea to welcome China and Russia with military display after pandemic isolation
After years of pandemic isolation, North Korea has invited its friends back this week, hosting senior Chinese and Russian delegations for 70th anniversary commemorations of the Korean War and the struggle against the United States and its allies.
Hunter Biden plea: Karl Rove 'cannot imagine a worse situation' for president after court chaos
Karl Rove said he "cannot imagine a worse situation" for President Joe Biden than the chaotic court hearing for his son, Hunter Biden.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
House GOP notches early win in bid to unite party on spending — but pitfalls remain
Conservatives say they’re closing in on agreement to broader funding cuts. And other senior Republicans are getting more alienated as party leaders slash.
www.politico.com
Sixty-six years after returning to Russia, mathematician is an exile once more
A century after his father and mother fled Russia to escape the Bolsheviks, renowned mathematician Alexey Sossinsky found history repeating itself when President Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine.
High school student who sat in Pence’s chair during Capitol riot is sentenced to 1 year in prison
A high school student who stormed the U.S. Capitol, assaulted a police officer and sat in a Senate floor chair reserved for the vice president has been sentenced to one year in prison.
apnews.com
Ship carrying 3,000 cars ablaze off Dutch coast, crew member dead
A fire blazed on a cargo ship off the Dutch coast with nearly 3,000 vehicles on board on Wednesday, killing one member of the crew and injuring several others, the coastguard said.
Pakistan is ‘standing on the edge of darkness,’ former leader Imran Khan says
The South Asian country is in a political crisis as Khan tries to return to power in a rare public challenge to the hugely powerful military.
www.nbcnews.com
U.S. will avert recession in 2023, Fed staff says, even as more rate hikes loom
Central bank officials are cautioning that there might be more increases coming.
www.politico.com
Senators spar over whether CFPB has the power to root out junk fees
Democrats accused big banks of funding GOP efforts to undermine the CFPB during a Senate subcommittee hearing.
Hunter Biden plea: 2024 GOP presidential hopefuls weigh in
Vivek Ramaswamy was the first Republican presidential contender to respond to Hunter Biden's Wednesday plea of not guilty concerning federal tax charges.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Exclusive: Trevor Reed is expected to make a full recovery after being wounded in Ukraine | CNN Politics
Former US Marine Trevor Reed is expected to make a full recovery after being wounded in battle approximately two weeks ago serving alongside Ukrainian forces fighting Russia, a source close to Reed told CNN.
www.cnn.comMan fatally shot by western Indiana police officers after standoff identified by coroner
Authorities say a man who was fatally shot by western Indiana police officers has been identified as 34-year-old Christopher W. Fortin of Terre Haute.
apnews.com
UPS deal burnishes US Teamsters leader's image as one 'tough SOB'
The head of the Teamsters union stared down UPS with a potential multibillion-dollar strike that could have damaged the U.S. economy but instead won gains for workers, and he is proud to be called "SOB."
House Republican demands Mayorkas answer on DHS collusion with social media: ‘Who determines what’s false?'
Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., grilled DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on the Biden administration's alleged efforts to stamp out conservative free speech online.
Experts warn that borax cleaning powder isn’t safe to ingest, as social media posts claim
CLAIM: Taking borax daily can help with a range of ailments, including osteoporosis, kidney stones, chronic fatigue and erectile dysfunction.
apnews.com
Trump says 'we'll have fun' at 'trial of the century' as election case indictment looms
Donald Trump is a target of a criminal probe by special counsel Jack Smith over efforts to reverse the 2020 electoral win of President Joe Biden.
Owners of morning-after pill Plan B mulling $4 bln sale of company - source
The private equity owners of popular emergency contraception pill Plan B, Foundation Consumer Healthcare, have hired advisors to explore options including a potential sale of the company, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters.
Elon Musk’s X Rebrand Is Toxic Catnip to the Press
Journalists love to hate Twitter.
www.politico.com
3 Ohio inmates escape jail, 2 caught, 1 remains on the run
Glynis Thompson, 37, along with two other inmates, broke through a facility window around 1:40 a.m. and escaped on foot, law enforcement officials said.
www.cbsnews.com
Bangladesh summons Western envoys after poll violence remarks
Foreign affairs official says Western envoys showed an ‘undiplomatic attitude’ after they protested attack on candidate.
Mark Lowery, Arkansas treasurer and former legislator who sponsored voter ID law, has died at age 66
Mark Lowery, Arkansas’ treasurer and a former legislator who sponsored the state’s voter ID law, has died from complications from a stroke. He was 66.
apnews.com
Kevin Spacey found not guilty in sexual assault trial
A London jury reached a verdict in the sexual assault trial of actor Kevin Spacey, who was accused of sexually assaulting four men between 2001 and 2013.
Hunter Biden plea deal: Who is Maryellen Noreika, the judge who threw a 'curveball'
Delaware federal district Judge Maryellen Noreika, who is an appointee of former President Donald Trump, threw a "curveball" during the court hearing for Hunter Biden's "sweetheart" plea deal, which resulted in the first son pleading not guilty.
www.washingtonexaminer.comCar buyers bear a heavy burden as Federal Reserve keeps raising rates: Auto-loan rejections are up
The Federal Reserve’s decision Wednesday to raise interest rates for the 11th time could once again send ripple effects across the economy.
apnews.com
Two more McDonald's franchisees fined for child labor violations in Louisiana and Texas
The 16 locations add to a growing list of McDonald's restaurants in the Southeast in trouble for child labor abuses.
www.cbsnews.com
U.S. stocks close little changed as Fed leaves door open
U.S. stocks ended Wednesday little changed following a Federal Reserve rate hike that left the door open for future hikes, but the Dow scored a 13-day winning streak.
Miami-Dade police chief shot himself after offering resignation, mayor says
Miami-Dade's mayor says the director of the Police Department shot himself shortly after offering to resign over his actions at Tampa hotel during a law enforcement conference.
apnews.com
White House knocks GOP attacks against Biden as a ‘clown carousel’
The White House on Wednesday criticized House Republicans for their attacks against President Biden, saying that their disjointed messaging about the president is a “clown carousel.” “Instead of ha…
thehill.com
Russian cybersecurity chief jailed for 14 years for treason
Sachkov who helped found one of Russia’s most prominent cybersecurity firms was accused of aiding foreign spies.
Eric Adams' relationship with the NY tech community hits some snags
New York Mayor Eric Adams' often-positive relationship with the city's tech community has started to run into some turbulence.
Lawmakers call for greater transparency on UFOs during House Oversight hearing
Three former military officials testified during the congressional hearing held by the House Oversight subcommittee on National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs.
www.nbcnews.com
Alpha Phi Alpha moves 2025 convention out of Florida over ‘racist’ policies
The Black men’s Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has announced it will move its 2025 general convention from Orlando in light of “racist” policies. The fraternity announced the news Wednesday…
thehill.com
Niger 'coup attempt' under way as neighbours send mediation mission
Presidential guards were holding Niger President Mohamed Bazoum inside his palace in the capital Niamey on Wednesday, as regional leaders organised a swift mediation mission to try to prevent another potential power grab in West Africa.
Texas GOP Mayra Flores pulls more cash since launch than Democrat Vicente Gonzalez in quarter
EXCLUSIVE — Former Texas Republican Rep. Mayra Flores hauled in more donations in the two weeks since her campaign launch than her opponent, Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), did during the whole second quarter of this year, according to the Flores campaign.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Florida GOP Rep. Donalds pushes back on new state slavery learning standard
“The attempt to feature the personal benefits of slavery is wrong & needs to be adjusted,” Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) wrote in a tweet.
www.politico.com
US heat wave eyes Northeast amid severe storms: Latest forecast
More than a third of the United States is on alert for hot temperatures amid a deadly heat wave that has plagued the country for weeks.
State Department to face classified House Foreign Affairs grilling over Biden Iran envoy's opaque suspension
The State Department is to brief the House Foreign Affairs Committee behind closed doors on the probe into Iran envoy Rob Malley's security clearance.
Mother punched in face while she held her baby sues Los Angeles sheriff's department
A woman who was punched in the face by a deputy as she held her baby is suing the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
apnews.com
Elon Musk tweet boosts vaccine conspiracies targeting LeBron James' son
The basketball legend's son Bronny James suffered a cardiac arrest on Monday.
www.bbc.com
Obamas’ chef wasn’t found dead on the anniversary of Jeffrey Epstein’s suicide
AP’S ASSESSMENT: False.
apnews.com
Exclusive: Amazon has drawn thousands to try its AI service competing with Microsoft, Google
Amazon.com’s cloud division has drawn thousands of customers to try out its service vying with Microsoft and Google in a key area of artificial intelligence, an executive told Reuters.
Third associate of Steve Bannon sentenced to 63 months in prison for border wall scheme | CNN Politics
A third associate of Steve Bannon was sentenced to 63 months in prison for the “We Build the Wall” online fundraising fraud scheme, according to a news release from the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.
www.cnn.com
House overcomes first hurdle for military spending bill despite threats from hard-line conservatives
The House managed to advance the rule on its annual military construction appropriations bill on Wednesday despite initial threats from hard-line conservatives to tank the legislation unless it met their list of demands.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Hunter Biden pleads not guilty to charges after judge questions revised plea deal
Judge Maryellen Noreika, an appointee of former President Donald Trump, put the proceedings on hold as she asked the parties to work out their dispute.
Clean energy push in New Jersey, elsewhere met with warnings the government is coming for your stove
New Jersey is pushing an ambitious agenda to move its 9 million residents away from natural gas and gasoline to heat their homes and power their cars, in favor of electricity to do the job of both.
apnews.com
Ohio K-9 officer fired after his police dog attacked surrendering suspect
An Ohio K-9 officer has been fired after an investigation into why his police dog attacked a Black truck driver who was on his knees with his hands up.
'The devil has been in our way': GOP lawmaker accuses Biden admin of covering up UFOs
“We've run into roadblocks from members from the intelligence community, the Pentagon,” Rep. Tim Burchett said.
www.politico.com
Judiciary GOP torn on Mayorkas impeachment as conference eyes other options
House Judiciary Republicans appeared split in their appetite for impeaching Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas Wednesday, with many largely refraining from discussions of booting him fr…
thehill.comStock market today: Stocks drift after Fed hikes rates, as yields fall on hopes that's the last one
Stocks held steady after the Federal Reserve raised interest rates to their highest level in more than two decades, just as Wall Street expected.
apnews.com
Leading Black conservative organization condemns new Florida education policies
One of the nation’s leading Black conservative organizations has condemned Florida’s new education policies, specifically criticizing a provision that says students should be taught that enslaved p…
thehill.com
Ramaswamy clarifies voting history, says he voted libertarian for president in 2004
GOP presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy clarified his voting history in an interview, acknowledging a 2004 vote for Libertarian presidential candidate Michael Badnarik.
Federal appeals court halts Missouri execution, leading state to appeal
A federal appeals court panel has halted next month’s planned execution of a 45-year-old Missouri man convicted of killing a 6-year-old girl, though the state is appealing.
apnews.com
California to use tax penalty proceeds to lower healthcare costs
A tax penalty intended to assist Californians without health insurance, known as the individual mandate, will be enacted four years after Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) approved the measure in 2019.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Broncos’ Sean Payton calls out NFL after Eyioma Uwazurike suspended indefinitely for gambling violations
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton believes the uptick in gambling violations this offseason goes beyond just the players committing them.
On their own front line, Ukrainian surgeons treat waves of soldiers since the counteroffensive began
A surge of wounded soldiers has coincided with the major counteroffensive Ukraine launched in June to try to recapture its land from Russian forces.
apnews.com
President Biden, first lady express Hunter Biden 'support' after not guilty pleas, White House says
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre says Hunter Biden still has “support" from his parents Wednesday following a “not guilty" plea at a federal courthouse in Delaware.
Ukraine war live updates: Russia raises conscription age limit; Zelenskyy gives fresh corruption warning
Russia's lower house voted to expand the upper age limit of its military conscription base, potentially adding over 2 million men to the country's forces.
Several ministers are out as Trudeau shakes up Canada's Cabinet
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is announcing a major Cabinet shake-up as he readies his team for the next federal election.
apnews.com
5 takeaways as the Fed reignites its inflation fight
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said Wednesday that while the central bank staff is no longer forecasting a recession, there’s still a “long way to go” to get inflation back to its 2 percent ta…
thehill.com
Why Kamala Harris Is A Better VP Than You Think
The second-highest job in the land has been shifting for decades, and some of those changes haven’t made things easier for Kamala Harris.
www.politico.com
'A superb dig': Archeologists uncover ruins believed to be Roman Emperor Nero's theater near Vatican
Daniela Porro, special superintendent of Rome, said this "exceptional" discovery is believed to be the place where Nero rehearsed his poetry and singing performances.
JPMorgan to buy almost $2 bln of mortgages in the PacWest deal - source
JPMorgan Chase & Co will buy almost $2 billion worth of mortgages to facilitate Banc of California's purchase of PacWest Bancorp , a source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters.
UN panel says it's concerned about human rights violations in Uganda in recent years
Human rights violations in Uganda in recent years ranging from the arrest of government opponents to extrajudicial killings have raised the concern of a panel of United Nations experts.
apnews.com
Trump endorses RNC early voting initiative despite past opposition to practice
Donald Trump is supporting the Republican National Committee's Bank Your Vote initiative ahead of the 2024 presidential elections, a sign that the former president is moving away from his past stances against early voting.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
UFO hearing live updates: Lawmakers, witnesses accuse Pentagon of ‘cover up’
The House Oversight subcommittee on national security spent the morning hearing from witnesses who pushed for more transparency in how the government handles reports of unidentified anomalous pheno…
thehill.com
Alabama's redistricting fight heads for another court showdown -- with control of US House potentially on the line | CNN Politics
A fight over congressional representation in Alabama is headed for another federal court showdown after the state’s Republican-controlled legislature approved new district lines that critics say openly defy a US Supreme Court mandate to give Black voters more power in this Deep South state.
www.cnn.comSamsung unveils two new foldable smartphones in a bet on devices with bending screens
Samsung Electronics has unveiled two new foldable smartphones in a bet on devices with bending screens.
apnews.com
Giuliani won’t contest Georgia election workers’ claims that he falsely accused them of manipulating ballots
In a heavily couched statement, he also conceded that his statements meet the “factual elements of liability” for Moss and Freeman’s claims that his attacks amounted to “intentional infliction of emotional distress.”
www.politico.com
Senate passes toned-down bill to increase oversight of investments in Chinese technology
This rare bipartisan agreement underscores U.S. worries over China's development of advanced technology in an intensifying global battle for tech supremacy.
Poland complains to European Union about German waste brought and dumped in unauthorized landfills
Poland has made a complaint against Germany to the European Commission over tons of German waste, some of it allegedly toxic, brought and stored in unauthorized landfills across Poland.
apnews.com
Progressive 'Squad' member mocked after 'thirst strike' lasts just 8 hours: 'What a hero'
Rep. Greg Casar, D-Texas, was widely mocked on social media after a thirst strike meant to show solidarity with federal workers ended after just eight hours.
Senate Republicans see Biden impeachment as fraught with risk
Senate Republicans see impeaching President Biden ahead of the 2024 election as a risky political strategy that could turn off moderate voters and are hoping to wave their House GOP colleagues off …
thehill.com
Ohio abortion vote this November considered 2024 presidential bellwether by Democrats, Republicans
A November vote on a pro-abortion Ohio amendment is considered a bellwether ahead of the 2024 presidential election a year after the end of Roe v. Wade.
Mangrove forest thrives around what was once Latin America's largest landfill
It was once Latin America’s largest landfill. Now, a decade after Rio de Janeiro closed it down and redoubled efforts to recover the surrounding expanse of highly polluted swamp, crabs, snails, fish and birds are once again populating the mangrove forest.
apnews.com
Harris in the campaign spotlight, despite Republican 'President Kamala' criticism
Vice President Kamala Harris is increasing her presence on the campaign trail, despite Republican criticism and poor polling.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
A big lie, an attack on the Capitol — and soon, another indictment
How Trump’s disparate and increasingly desperate campaign to undermine the 2020 election led to his next expected criminal charges.
www.politico.com
No, Hank Williams Jr. didn’t resign from CMT’s board of directors. The network doesn’t have a board
CLAIM: Singer Hank Williams Jr. resigned from Country Music Television’s board of directors and artists including Carrie Underwood and Toby Keith have pulled their music videos from the network in recent days.
apnews.com
'Mother Undercover': How 4 women took matters into their own hands to get justice
An ABC News Studios Hulu docuseries goes deep into four cases where mothers took matters into their own hands to seek justice.
Niger's presidential guard surrounds leader's home in what African organizations call a coup attempt
Members of Niger’s presidential guard surrounded the presidential palace Wednesday in what African organizations called an attempted coup against the country’s democratically elected leader.
apnews.com
Mayorkas baffled by Dem rep's bizarre historical trivia in border hearing
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas bristled at a bizarre line of questioning by a Democratic congressman who repeatedly asked him the names of past presidents.
US judge tightens Sam Bankman-Fried's bail, will consider jailing him
A U.S. judge on Wednesday tightened Sam Bankman-Fried's bail conditions by restricting his ability to communicate publicly, and said he will consider jailing him before the trial over the collapse of his FTX cryptocurrency exchange.
Are you a Facebook user? You have one month left to apply for a share of this $725M settlement
U.S. Facebook users have one more month to apply for their share of a $725 million privacy settlement that parent company Meta agreed to pay late last year.
apnews.com
Montana tribe, citing mounting tragedies, sues Biden administration over lack of police funding
Brian Wing still has the video on his phone. After a domestic dispute, a front door video camera captured the moment a young man was hit by a fleeing car while he leaned his body halfwa…
thehill.comUK prime minister urged to speed up compensation for infected blood scandal victims
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak says he is committed to paying out compensation swiftly to thousands of people affected by the country’s infected blood scandal, which saw more than 2,000 patients die after contracting HIV or hepatitis from transfusions of tainted blood in the 1970s and 1980s.
apnews.com
Christie hits Trump for having Clintons at wedding
Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie knocked former President Trump on Wednesday for having former President Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton at his 2005 wedding to…
thehill.com
Austin becomes first defense secretary to visit Papua New Guinea
United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is visiting Papua New Guinea, marking the first time a sitting defense secretary has traveled to the island nation.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Stalled coastal wind power projects imperil Biden’s climate agenda
Funding shortfalls are imperiling projects in New York, New Jersey and beyond.
www.politico.comSinéad O’Connor, gifted and provocative Irish singer-songwriter, dies at 56
Singer-songwriter Sinéad O’Connor has died at 56. The gifted and troubled Irish performer was known for her shaved head and for her fierce and expressive voice.
apnews.com
Marco Rubio leads effort to block Biden move protecting Chinese EV companies
FIRST ON FOX: Sen. Marco Rubio is leading an effort to block the Department of Transportation's rules waiving certain domestic sourcing requirements for electric vehicle chargers.
Closing prices for crude oil, gold and other commodities
Benchmark U.S. crude oil for September delivery fell 85 cents to $78.78 a barrel Wednesday. Brent crude for September delivery fell 72 cents to $82.92 a barrel.
apnews.com
CENTCOM extends investigation into possible civilian death in Syria
U.S. Central Command has extended the deadline for investigators to conclude whether a civilian was killed in a May 3 strike in Syria.
www.washingtonexaminer.comUK jury acquits Kevin Spacey of sexual assault charges based on allegations by 4 men over 20 years
A London jury has acquitted Kevin Spacey on sexual assault charges stemming from allegations by four men dating back 20 years.
apnews.com
Judge says Hunter Biden legal team apparently ‘misrepresented’ identity to court clerk
The judge overseeing Hunter Biden’s criminal case accused a member of his legal team of misrepresenting themselves to the clerk’s office, an unusual development that has raised the possibility of s…
thehill.com
1 in 6 toddlers have not completed childhood vaccine series, study finds
A new study found one in six toddlers have not completed a childhood vaccine series, which experts say speaks to a wider trend of lagging vaccination rates among kids.
What to know about the legal battle against Medicare drug price negotiations
The court battle over Medicare’s drug price negotiation program continues to heat up ahead of a key date for deciding which drugs will be included. As of last week, there are now five organizations…
thehill.comVatican prosecutor seeks 7 years in jail for cardinal, confiscation of $460 million from 10 people
The Vatican prosecutor has asked a court to convict 10 people, including a cardinal, of a range of financial crimes, sentence them to three to 13 years in prison and order the confiscation of more than $460 million to pay the Holy See back for large financial losses over the past decade.
apnews.com
Hunter’s business partner Devon Archer in ‘hiding’ ahead of bombshell testimony: report
Hunter Biden’s longtime friend and fellow Burisma board member is reportedly in "hiding" ahead of expected testimony next week before the House Oversight Committee.
GOP nominee says he would renew push for Medicaid work requirement if elected governor in Kentucky
Republican Daniel Cameron says he would move quickly as Kentucky’s governor to revive a push to require some able-bodied adults to work in exchange for Medicaid health coverage.
apnews.com
Sinéad O'Connor, Irish singer of 'Nothing Compares 2 U' and more, dead at 56, Irish media says | CNN
Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor, who became as well known for her remarkable music as her personal struggles, has died, according to RTE, Ireland’s public broadcaster. She was 56.
www.cnn.comWhy chances of a shutdown could be growing
Lawmakers in the House and Senate have a little more than two months to reach a deal on funding the government to prevent a shutdown, and worries are rising that they might fail to do so. It is hig…
thehill.com
Trump’s ‘Elite Strike Force Team’ Falls on Hard Times
Inside the push to bring accountability to the lawyers who tried to overturn the 2020 election.
www.politico.comCambodia's Hun Sen, Asia's longest serving leader, says he'll step down and his son will take over
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen says he will step down in August and hand the position to his oldest son, though Asia’s longest-serving leader is expected to continue to wield significant power.
apnews.com
How do borrowers change their payment plans on a student loan?
Millions of Americans are expected to add hundreds of dollars to their monthly expenses when student loan repayments resume this fall. While some could use a one-year on-ramp period pro…
thehill.com
Biden: 'Critical' that diversity is 'reflected at every level' of the military
President Joe Biden released a statement Wednesday committing to further advancing diversity at "every level of the Department of Defense, including at the highest levels of leadership."
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Latest updates: Dow notches longest winning streak since 1987 on Fed news and corporate earnings
Stocks were mixed Wednesday after the Federal Reserve announced a quarter-point rate hike. Traders are now focusing on the timing of a potential second hike later in the year.
100 million people now under heat alerts as high temperatures expand into Midwest and Northeast
The hottest days of the year are coming for cities like Minneapolis, New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C., as highs soar into the 90s and heat indices eclipse 100 F.
www.nbcnews.com
Tim Allen jokes that Hunter Biden's laptop 'seems like it’s no joke' now
Actor Tim Allen posted a joke about Hunter Biden's laptop on social media on Wednesday, the same day a judge rejected Hunter Biden's plea deal.
www.washingtonexaminer.comDoctors in England escalate pay dispute as they announce another 4-day walkout in August
Tens of thousands of doctors in Britain’s state-funded health service will go on strike for a further four days in August as their pay dispute with the government shows few if any signs of resolution.
apnews.com
'Grateful' Kevin Spacey cleared of sex assault charges
The Oscar-winning actor cried in court as he was cleared of all nine charges by a jury in London.
www.bbc.com
Israel's top court will hear challenges to a law that weakens its power, escalating political crisis
Israel’s highest court says that it will hear legal challenges against a divisive new law that weakens its power.
apnews.com
Allowing trans activists to intervene in driver's license suit a legal 'morass,' Kansas AG Kobach says
Republican Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach slammed five ACLU-backed transgender residents' bid to intervene in a lawsuit as a legal "morass" in a new court filing.
Fed raises rates, Powell leaves door open to hike in September
The Federal Reserve raised interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point on Wednesday, citing still elevated inflation as a rationale for what is now the highest U.S. central bank policy rate since 2007.
Claim that Luke Bryan pulled his videos from CMT originated as satire
CLAIM: Country singer Luke Bryan pulled his videos from Country Music Television and said, “Time for the Bud Light treatment.”
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