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Biden shores up Western allies as Putin digs in on Ukraine
WARSAW, Poland (AP) — President Joe Biden closed out his wartime visit to Europe on Wednesday, working to shore up partnerships with allies on NATO’s perilous eastern flank — even as Russia’s Vladimir Putin was drawing closer to China for help as his invasion of Ukraine neared the one-year mark.
Mike Pence: Changes to Social Security, Medicare should ‘be on the table’ long-term
The former vice president said 'fiscal discipline' must be a priority in the coming decades, which includes a long-term debate on entitlement reform.
www.usatoday.com
House January 6 investigator says it’s ‘likely’ 2020 election subversion probes will produce indictments | CNN Politics
The top investigator on the House committee that probed the January 6, 2021, US Capitol attack said Wednesday it is “likely” that the Georgia and federal investigations into efforts to subvert the 2020 presidential election will produce indictments.
www.cnn.com
Flights canceled, highways closed as winter storm wallops US
A brutal winter storm has closed interstate highways from Arizona to Wyoming, trapped motorists in their cars, knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of people and prompted the first blizzard warning in Southern California in decades.
apnews.com
Putin suspending nuclear treaty with US is 'big mistake,' Biden tells David Muir
President Joe Biden told ABC News anchor David Muir that it was a "big mistake" for Vladimir Putin to temporarily suspend Russia's participation in the New START treaty
Foes present signatures, seek New Orleans mayor recall vote
Opponents of embattled New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell say they have enough signatures from a petition drive to force a recall election to remove Cantrell from office.
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Former Arizona AG sat on records refuting 2020 election fraud
Arizona’s former attorney general suppressed findings by his investigators who concluded there was no basis for allegations that the 2020 election was marred by widespread fraud.
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House Speaker defends giving Capitol riot video to Fox host
Asked about his decision to share the video trove with Tucker Carlson, Kevin McCarthy says: "I promised."
www.bbc.com
Detective: Colorado Springs club shooter ran neo-Nazi site
A police detective says the 22-year-old accused of carrying out the deadly mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs in November ran a neo-Nazi website and used gay and racial slurs while gaming online.
apnews.com
February 22, 2023 - Russia-Ukraine news | CNN
US President Joe Biden met with leaders of NATO’s eastern flank in Poland, wrapping up a visit to Europe that included a surprise trip to Kyiv. He praised the leaders of the nine countries, saying they are “the front lines of our collective defense.”
www.cnn.com
Putin hails Russia's fighters in Ukraine at rally in Moscow
President Vladimir Putin hailed Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine during a rally in Moscow on Wednesday, calling on the crowds to chant "Russia, Russia" to show their support for those he said were defending the fatherland.
Biden says Putin made a 'big mistake' on New START treaty
Putin announced that Moscow was suspending participation in the key nuclear arms control treaty New START, the last such agreement between the U.S. and Russia.
www.nbcnews.com
No economic 'knockout' yet from West's sanctions on Russia
One month into the invasion of Ukraine, President Joe Biden declared that sanctions against Russia had rendered the ruble almost immediately “to rubble.”
apnews.com
O’Reilly on Fox News lawsuit: ‘I would never sell out for ratings’
Former Fox News host Bill O’Reilly is slamming his former employer following revelations made in newly-filed court documents stemming from a defamation lawsuit the conservative media giant is…
thehill.com
8 million refugees have fled Ukraine after a year of fighting, UN data shows
More than 8 million refugees from Ukraine have been recorded across Europe as of Tuesday, nearly one year since Russia invaded, according to the U.N. refugee agency
AG Garland will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee next week
Attorney General Merrick Garland will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 1, marking his first congressional testimony in the new Congress.
Jimmy Carter receives accolades from afar, and right at home
Former President Jimmy Carter is garnering accolades and well-wishes across the world since the announcement that the 98-year-old is receiving end-of-life care at home in Georgia.
apnews.com
Former Arizona attorney general withheld report showing no widespread voter fraud in 2020
Mark Brnovich, a Republican, never released a 2022 report which ruled out most of the fraud claims spread by allies and supporters of former President Donald Trump.
www.cbsnews.com
Trump criticizes federal response to Ohio train derailment
Donald Trump is criticizing the federal response to the toxic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, as a betrayal.
apnews.com
US State Department hints at 'consequences' if China provides lethal aid to Russia for Ukraine war
The U.S. State Department is warning that there will be serious "consequences" if China were to provide lethal material support to Russia in its war against Ukraine.
Ex-member: Proud Boys failed to carry out 'revolution'
WASHINGTON (AP) — Proud Boys leaders plotted to violently prevent President Joe Biden from taking office because they were trying to “save the country" from what they feared would be a tyrannical government, a former member of the far-right extremist group told a jury on Wednesday.
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Biden approval rating highest in almost a year: survey
President Biden’s approval rating has hit its highest point in almost a year, according to a new NPR-PBS NewsHour-Marist poll, rising to 46 percent. Biden’s approval rating following his seco…
thehill.com
Analysis: Can U.S. support for Ukraine last as war enters second year?
U.S. President Joe Biden dramatically emphasized U.S. backing for Ukraine this week with a trip to the wartorn country, but back home public support for sending weapons to Ukraine is softening as the conflict enters its second year with no end in sight.
Wang Yi meets Putin in sign of deepening China-Russia ties
Putin says relations between the two countries have reached ‘new frontiers’, confirming a summit with Xi Jinping.
TV reporter, 9-year-old girl fatally shot in Florida, authorities say
Authorities say a central Florida television journalist and a little girl were fatally shot near the scene of a fatal shooting from earlier in the day.
apnews.com
Marjorie Taylor Greene refuses to back down from 'national divorce' proposal
After the Civil War, the Supreme Court ruled it is unconstitutional for a state to secede, which would make it impossible for Greene's plan to be implemented.
Don Lemon back on 'CNN This Morning' following controversy: What he said about Nikki Haley
CNN CEO Chris Licht said Don Lemon received formal training after the TV host said Nikki Haley is not "in her prime," sparking backlash.
www.usatoday.com
24-year-old reporter 'senselessly' gunned down while covering earlier shooting in Florida
Three people, including a reporter and a 9-year-old girl, were shot and killed in a series of shootings in Orange County, Florida, officials said.
Nipsey Hussle's killer gets 60 years to life in prison
A Los Angeles judge has sentenced the man convicted of gunning down rapper Nipsey Hussle to 60 years to life in prison.
apnews.com
DeSantis sends fiery response to MSNBC host who claimed Florida is 'all crystal meth and alligators'
A Twitter account for Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis blasted an MSNBC contributor who claimed that most Americans view Florida as "all crystal meth and alligators."
Trump attacks Georgia grand jury forewoman over media tour
Former President Trump blasted the forewoman of the Georgia grand jury investigating his efforts to interfere with the 2020 election results in the state over her “revealing” insights i…
thehill.com
Pentagon releases pilot's close-up photo of Chinese balloon
A U-2 pilot flying high above the Chinese spy balloon took a close-up photo of the large white orb just a day before the Air Force shot the balloon down off the coast of South Carolina.
apnews.com
Trump points fingers at the Biden administration in East Palestine visit
The former president visited the Ohio village nearly three weeks after a train derailment and toxic chemical release that have raised questions about railroad regulation.
www.nbcnews.com
‘Russia’s war goals haven’t changed: destroying Ukraine’
Seven experts predict possible scenarios as neither Moscow nor Kyiv appears ready to negotiate a peaceful end to war.
Los Angeles meteorologists marvel at blizzard warnings
It's usually sunny and warm in Southern California, but area forecasters are experiencing a first
www.bbc.com
Wagner chief: Mercenaries slaughtered because of ‘shell hunger’
Yevgeny Prigozhin has repeatedly accused Russia’s military brass of deliberately starving his fighters of munitions.
'Dances With Wolves' actor indicted in Nevada sex abuse case
A grand jury in Nevada has indicted a “Dances With Wolves” actor who is accused of sexually abusing and trafficking Indigenous women and girls in the U.S. and Canada for decades.
apnews.com
Minneapolis closes schools as city braces for massive winter storm
A massive snow storm is on its way to wreak havoc in several states as the South prepares for a record February heat wave.
Jan. 6 rioter who tweeted threats to Ocasio-Cortez and Schumer sentenced to 38 months in prison
Garret Miller also assaulted several police officers and, after leaving the Capitol grounds, replied to a tweet from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez with, "Assassinate AOC."
www.cbsnews.com
Alaska House censures GOP lawmaker over child abuse comments
An Alaska lawmaker with a history of incendiary remarks has been censured by the state House. Wednesday's vote came after Republican Rep.
apnews.com
'The revolution had failed': Ex-Proud Boy testifies of Jan. 6, group's desperation after lost election
Jeremy Bertino, an ex-Proud Boy who pleaded guilty to seditious conspiracy, testified this week in the Jan. 6 trial of five members of the group.
www.usatoday.com
Democrats see security threat in McCarthy sending Jan. 6 video to Tucker Carlson
Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s (R-Calif.) recent decision to release thousands of hours of Jan. 6, 2021, security footage to Fox News host Tucker Carlson is setting off alarm bells among Democrats, who s…
thehill.com
Putin ally fires back at Biden’s Poland speech with nuclear warning
Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev hit back at the U.S. on Wednesday, warning that his country reserved the right to use its nuclear arsenal to defend itself after a speech in Poland by Presi…
thehill.com
Russian test launch of "Satan II" missile failed, U.S. says, as Putin suspends role in nuclear treaty
Russia's "suspension" of its participation in the New START arms control treaty came as it emerged that Moscow had tried but apparently failed to conduct a test launch of its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile.
www.cbsnews.comNewsom’s proposal to cap oil profits in California meets skepticism in first public hearing
Experts said a penalty on oil refiners might not have much effect on prices at the pump.
www.politico.com
US strike kills 7 al-Shabaab fighters in Somalia, Pentagon says | CNN Politics
A US strike in Somalia killed seven al-Shabaab fighters on Tuesday, US Africa Command said in a statement. The strike was carried out at the request of the Somali government and was a “collective self-defense strike,” AFRICOM said.
www.cnn.com
Life and death in shattered Mariupol - a survivor's tale of war in Ukraine
Shells were exploding nearby but Tatiana Bushlanova didn't flinch when she spoke to Reuters in front of the shattered remains of her home in Mariupol last May. Fighting in the port city has long since ended but the pensioner is still struggling to take in the enormity of what has happened.
Mike Pence breaks with Trump on Medicare and Social Security
Cuts to entitlement programs should be "on the table," the former vice president and possible White House hopeful said on CNBC.
www.nbcnews.com
Strong earthquake strikes Tajikistan, near border with China
An earthquake of about 6.8 magnitude shook eastern Tajikistan at 5:37 a.m. (0037 GMT) on Thursday, Tajik authorities said, which was felt in China and other neighbouring countries.
Biden calls nuclear treaty suspension a 'big mistake'; Putin courts Beijing ahead of Xi trip
The war in Ukraine continues to dominate global geopolitics this week, with the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion fast approaching.
As war enters year two, Ukrainians are filling Japan’s tech gap
A scholarship programme aims to help displaced Ukrainians find jobs while addressing Japan’s chronic labour shortages.
Americans divided on who will win Ukraine war: poll
Americans are nearly evenly split on whether Russia or Ukraine will eventually win the conflict between them as the war reaches its first anniversary, according to a new survey. The Economist-YouGo…
thehill.com
Rio Carnival's overlooked, all-important rite: The count
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Rio de Janeiro couldn’t resume regular life after the Carnival festivities came to a close until “the count” of scores from the parade competition was complete and a victor proclaimed.
apnews.com
Justices OK overtime pay for $200,000-a-year oil rig worker
The Supreme Court has ruled that an energy company employee who earned more than $200,000 a year still qualified for overtime pay under a federal law meant to protect blue-collar workers
NBC News botches attack against Ron DeSantis - Washington Examiner
It’s bad enough that NBC News reporter Andrea Mitchell tossed Vice President Kamala Harris such easy softballs in her latest interview — “Are you that new generation, for the Democrats, if the president decides not to run?” (Kamala whiffed on that one, failing to answer Mitchell's question.) But...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Florida TV journalist and child shot dead at scene of earlier murder
Dylan Lyons is named as the journalist killed while reporting the fatal shooting of a woman in Orlando.
www.bbc.com
Pakistan’s defence and spy chiefs discuss security with Taliban
High-level delegation visits Afghanistan’s capital, days after closure of major border crossing between two countries.
US government agency says 'no link' between dead whales and wind farm development
The Marine Mammal Commission released a statement on the recent strandings of whales along the Atlantic Coast, saying there is no evidence linking them to wind farm development.
Trump accuses Biden administration of ‘indifference and betrayal’ in East Palestine
Former President Trump accused the Biden administration on Wednesday of “indifference and betrayal” in its response to a train derailment that spilled toxic chemicals in an Ohio town. Speakin…
thehill.com
Russia's sports exile persists 1 year after invading Ukraine
Russia’s reintegration into the world of sports one year after the invasion of Ukraine began threatens to create the biggest rift in the Olympic movement since the Cold War.
apnews.com
Trump tours Ohio town near toxic train derailment
Former President Donald Trump on Wednesday toured the Ohio town near a toxic rain derailment three weeks ago.
Schumer slams McCarthy over Tucker Carlson's access to Jan. 6 security video
Senate Majority Leader Schumer says Speaker McCarthy's reported actions could expose the Capitol and its workers to a security risk like the nation saw on 9/11.
www.nbcnews.com
US holds $31 trillion debt. What would it take to stop adding to it?
The debt ceiling fight has drawn attention to the U.S. government's trillions in unpaid bills.
Democrats funnel $45 million to New York House candidates to flip seats lost in midterms
Democrats are funneling money to New York ahead of the 2024 election to win House seats lost to Republicans during the midterms.
www.usatoday.com
How Biden asylum rule affects immigration, compares to Trump
President Joe Biden’s administration is preparing a new rule for asylum seekers. It will generally deny asylum to migrants who show up at the U.S. southern border without first seeking protection in a country they passed through.
apnews.com
Michigan asks judge to release man in slayings of 2 hunters
DETROIT (AP) — The state of Michigan asked a judge Wednesday to release a man who has served nearly 21 years of a life sentence for the fatal shootings of two hunters, saying critical evidence about an Ohio serial killer's possible role was never shared before trial.
apnews.com
The U.S. and China met to discuss the 'spy balloon.' Their statements afterward were very different
It's significant how much Washington's diplomatic take can differ from Beijing's, not just in content but in tone.
Retired general on Russia-Ukraine conflict: ‘It would push us much closer to a cold war to have China actively involved in assisting Russia’
Retired General Jack Keane said on Wednesday that if China were to provide assistance to Russia during its invasion of Ukraine, it would could help escalate the conflict to a cold war. “If Ch…
thehill.com
Worker strikes spiked last year amid worker frustration, surging inflation
Strike activity surged 50% in 2022, as workers clamored for higher pay, safer work conditions or recognition.
www.cbsnews.com
For two Russian women, the war in Ukraine stirs pride or fear
For two Russian women, both named Yekaterina, the war in Ukraine has stirred them to very different emotions. One supports President Vladimir Putin and expects victory, while the other opposes Putin and thinks Russia will lose.
Space telescope uncovers massive galaxies near cosmic dawn
Astronomers have discovered what appear to be massive galaxies dating back to within 600 million years of the Big Bang.
apnews.com
Ukraine war: UN chief condemns invasion ahead of anniversary
António Guterres calls Russia's invasion an "affront" to the world's collective conscience.
www.bbc.com
Nuclear war no closer despite treaty move, Russian official says
Despite the decision to suspend participation, Russia says it will still abide by the New START arms reduction treaty.
Saddleback Church ousted from Southern Baptist Convention over female pastor
The Saddleback Church was ousted from the Southern Baptist Convention for having a female pastor.
CNN town hall on toxic train disaster in East Palestine, Ohio: Live updates | CNN
CNN is hosting a town hall Wednesday on the disaster in East Palestine, Ohio, where a train derailment this month sparked a massive fire and evacuation orders – and worries about residents’ health. Follow here for live updates.
www.cnn.com
Democratic-controlled state legislatures in Michigan and Minnesota passing legislation at rapid paces - Washington Examiner
After more than a decade of Republican dominance, the new Democratic-controlled state legislatures in Michigan and Minnesota have worked quickly to pass legislation. In Michigan, the Senate has passed five bills in 2023 already, which is as many as the Republican-controlled state legislature did...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Ohio train derailment: Lauren Boebert slams Buttigieg for being ‘absent on the job’ - Washington Examiner
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) slammed Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on Wednesday for being "absent on the job" following a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, earlier this month. Boebert claimed that Buttigieg's admission that he should have spoken out sooner about the train...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Report says donors ‘turning away’ from Taliban-ruled Afghanistan
New Crisis Group report cautions against aid cuts amid Taliban curbs on women’s education and working at NGOs.
Trump hands out 'Trump Water,' speaks to the 'forgotten' American in East Palestine: 'We stand with you'
Former President Donald Trump vowed during a trip to East Palestine, Ohio, to help the people of the town hold those responsible for the train derailment earlier this month.
Biden considers 1st offshore wind auction in Gulf of Mexico
The Biden administration said Wednesday it is considering the first-ever lease sale for offshore wind energy in the Gulf of Mexico, a key part of a push to deploy 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030 to help fight climate change.
apnews.com
Oregon lawmakers propose $200M for homelessness, housing
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Democratic lawmakers in Oregon have proposed a $200 million spending package to tackle homelessness and housing as the state struggles to build more homes and move a growing number of people off the streets.
apnews.com
NATO chief urges China not to back Russia's war in Ukraine
NATO's chief says the military alliance has seen "some signs" that China may be planning to support Russia in its war in Ukraine, and strongly urged Beijing to desist from what would be a violation of international law.
www.cbsnews.com
Tesla engineering HQ returning to California, Musk announces
Tesla is bringing its engineering headquarters back to California.
thehill.com
Democratic Sen. Jon Tester to run for 4th term in Montana
U.S. Sen. Jon Tester of Montana says he’ll seek reelection to a fourth term in 2024. The Democrat’s announcement Wednesday boosts his party’s chances of holding the seat as it tries to hang on to a slim Senate majority.
apnews.com
DeSantis wades into foreign policy, Ukraine
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) is wading deeper into foreign policy as he prepares for a likely 2024 presidential run, signaling an effort to broaden his leadership chops beyond the culture war issu…
thehill.com
Republicans seek records on SEC's climate proposal as part of push against ESG investing plans
Top Republicans in the House and Senate demanded detailed information from SEC Chair Gary Gensler on a polarizing climate disclosure proposal.
Mississippi governor vows to sign limit on transgender care
Once the bill is signed, Mississippi will be the seventh state to restrict gender-affirming care for transgender minors in the past two years.
www.nbcnews.com
Global impact: 5 ways war in Ukraine has changed the world
War has been a catastrophe for Ukraine and a crisis for the globe
One year into Russia's war, a key global food security deal hangs in the balance
Moscow is likely to use the deal’s March renewal date as an opportunity to make more demands.
www.politico.com
Supreme Court rules 9-0 that bankruptcy filers can't avoid debt incurred by another's fraud
The Supreme Court ruled Kate Bartenwerfer's lack of knowledge of her partner's fraud in a home sale did not protect her from owing a legal judgment.
Women in Congress set record with McClellan victory; Tim Scott heads to Iowa: Recap
With the arrival on Capitol Hill soon of Rep.-elect Jennifer McClellan, a record number of women will be serving in Congress.
www.usatoday.com
Amid sea of Ukrainian flags, Mariupol defender finally laid to rest
For months, Natalia Honcharenko had clung to the hope that her son, a Ukrainian soldier who helped defend the Mariupol steelworks against relentless Russian attack, might still be alive.
Namibian dancers, president welcome Jill Biden to Africa
The first lady’s trip is part of a commitment by President Joe Biden to deepen U.S. engagement with the fast-growing region.
www.nbcnews.com
Winner comes forward to claim $1.35B Mega Millions jackpot
The winner of a $1.35 billion Mega Millions jackpot has come forward to collect the prize. The Maine State Lottery announced Wednesday that the winner chose to remain anonymous and collect the cash option through a limited liability company instead of receiving the full amount in payments over time.
apnews.com
Economists urge China to think 'beyond GDP' to head off climate risks
A team of influential economists has urged China to adopt a new development model based on "wellbeing" rather than GDP growth in order to fulfil its 2060 net-zero emissions goals and head off the mounting threats of climate change.
Playbook PM: Tester gives Dems a boost
And NPR announces it will lay off 10% of staff.
www.politico.com
Here’s the question the 51 spies who dismissed the Hunter Biden laptop should be asked under oath - Washington Examiner
Opinion Here’s the question the 51 spies who dismissed the Hunter Biden laptop should be asked under oath By Elizabeth Stauffer February 22, 2023 06:00 AM Twitter LinkedIn Facebook Email Print Opinion Here’s the question the 51 spies who dismissed the Hunter Biden laptop should be asked under...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Former DOJ lawyer slams Georgia grand jury investigation into Trump: 'Political persecution'
Former DOJ lawyer Hans Von Spakovsky slammed the Georgia grand jury investigation into former President Trump, claiming it is simply a "political persecution."
Union officials say cost cutting led to significant derailment rate increase
Union officials allege the freight rail industry discourages reporting incidents by retaliating against employees, creating an increasingly unsafe culture.
House Majority PAC ramps up spending in New York as Democrats look ahead to 2024 - Washington Examiner
House Majority PAC, a political action committee aimed at getting Democrats elected to the lower chamber, announced on Wednesday it is ramping up spending in New York in the wake of Republicans making significant gains in the Empire State. The super PAC is slated to spend $45 million on its New...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Biden declines to veto Apple Watch ban
President Biden has upheld an International Trade Commission (ITC) ruling that could result in an import ban on the Apple Watch, according to AliveCor, a medical device company that has accused App…
thehill.com
Virginia Dems reject new communism curriculum after teachers union said it could offend Asians
Virginia Democrats rejected a bill that would have required teaching about the history of communism after a teachers union opposed it because it risked encouraging anti-Asian sentiment.
Russia, China show off ties amid maneuvering over Ukraine
Russia and China are showcasing their deepening ties in Moscow meetings others are watching for signs that Beijing might offer the Kremlin stronger support for its war in Ukraine.
apnews.com
Possible targets in Fulton County investigation of Trump, allies may try to quash charges
The district attorney is deciding whether to pursue charges and open a "regular" criminal grand jury, to seek possible indictments against Trump or others based on the special grand jury's recommendations
www.cbsnews.com
North Carolina House votes to end pistol permit requirements
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — House Republicans in North Carolina voted Wednesday to toss out a longstanding requirement that handgun buyers first obtain a permit from their county sheriff, disregarding Democrats' concerns that it could create a dangerous loophole.
apnews.com
Jan. 6 rioter who threatened Rep. Ocasio-Cortez gets 3 years
A Texas man who threatened Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on Twitter after he stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, has been sentenced to more than three years in prison.
apnews.com
Sen. Tim Scott expresses positive vision for America as he considers run for presidency
Scott was in Iowa on Wednesday speaking about the need for "new leaders who will lift us up, not tear us down."
www.cbsnews.com
Who Jon Tester’s top GOP challengers could be in 2024 - Washington Examiner
Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT), who announced he is running for reelection on Wednesday, will face his toughest challenge yet in 2024 in the deeply red state. Tester, 66, has survived three terms in the state won by former President Donald Trump by 16 points in 2020 by positioning himself as a...
www.washingtonexaminer.comHouse Majority PAC ramps up spending in New York as Democrats look ahead to 2024 - Washington Examiner
House Majority PAC, a political action committee aimed at getting Democrats elected to the lower chamber, announced on Wednesday it is ramping up spending in New York in the wake of Republicans making significant gains in the Empire State. The super PAC is slated to spend $45 million on its New...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
DC’s Thursday high is forecast at 80, but NY’s is 49: Here’s why
It’s February, but you wouldn’t guess it by Washington’s 80-degree forecast on Thursday, which the National Weather Service (NWS) noted could “feel more like June than February.” Just four hours no…
thehill.com
Pence says there are 'better choices' than Trump for 2024, calls to put entitlement cuts 'on the table'
The potential 2024 presidential candidate Pence also took a veiled swipe at Trump over Republicans' performance in the 2022 midterms.
Trump’s visit to Ohio derailment gives Biden’s team some breathing room
His planned appearance near the scene of this month’s toxic derailment has Democrats pointing to his past efforts to roll back train and chemical regulations.
www.politico.com
A year into Ukraine war, older refugees running out of hope
Tamila Melnichenko, 82, has one last wish: to be buried in Ukraine. A year ago, she was uprooted by the Russian invasion and now spends her days in a retirement home in Poland, longing for the life she had to leave behind. The former nurse reads Ukrainian and Russian classics and memorises poems...
US issues yet another stern warning to China
Welcome to The Hill’s Defense & NatSec newsletter {beacon} Defense &National Security Defense &National Security The Big Story Pentagon warns China of ‘consequenc…
thehill.com
Fed minutes: Almost all officials backed quarter-point hike
Nearly all Federal Reserve policymakers agreed earlier this month to slow the pace of their rate increases to a quarter-point, with only “a few” supporting a larger half-point hike.
apnews.com
Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner subpoenaed in Jan. 6 probe: report
Special counsel Jack Smith has subpoenaed former President Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump and his son-in-law Jared Kushner in his probe into the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riots.
Pentagon: China will face ‘consequences’ if it provides lethal aid to Russia
The Defense Department on Wednesday warned China against providing lethal aid to Russia, echoing similar cautionary statements from Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other U.S. officials as con…
thehill.com
Eleven Palestinians killed during Israeli raid in Nablus
More than 80 people also suffer bullet wounds after troops surround a house with militants inside.
www.bbc.com
Mexico's Senate approves controversial electoral reform
Mexico’s Senate has approved a reform of the country’s electoral institute, a move that opponents say will undercut democracy but which the president contends will save money and reduce political privileges.
apnews.com
Here's How Ukraine Could Retake Crimea
As policymakers debate the future of the Black Sea peninsula, more are coming around to the view that ending the Russian occupation is possible.
www.politico.com
Over 20% of Wisconsin voters turned out in Supreme Court primary
The Wisconsin Elections Commissions released an unofficial tally of votes cast in Tuesday's state Supreme Court primary, showing about 20% of the state's electorate turned out.
Chicago mayoral candidate Chuy García wants to make history — and unite a city divided over crime
The Democratic congressman, who would be Chicago's first Latino mayor, is well-liked but faces residents weary of crime, a progressive split and a crowded field.
www.nbcnews.com
Microsoft brings Bing chatbot to phones after curbing quirks
Microsoft is ready to take its new Bing chatbot mainstream — less than a week after making major fixes to stop the artificially intelligent search engine from going off the rails.
apnews.com
Supreme Court skeptical that Twitter bears responsibility for terrorist attack
Relatives of a Jordanian man killed in a 2017 attack in Istanbul say Twitter and other services helped spread militant Islamic ideology.
www.nbcnews.com
Missouri lawmakers try to strengthen abortion ban
Lawmakers in Missouri are trying to strengthen the state's abortion ban. GOP Sen. Mike Moon wants to add language to the Missouri Constitution.
Ohio train derailment: Pence slams Biden for not visiting East Palestine - Washington Examiner
Former Vice President Mike Pence chided President Joe Biden on Wednesday for not visiting East Palestine, Ohio, in the wake of a toxic train derailment that occurred earlier this month. Pence claimed that Biden failed people in Ohio when he went to Ukraine instead of the Midwest this week and...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
California bill penalizing oil profits makes little progress
California lawmakers are having their first public hearing on a proposal to penalize some oil company profits. Gov.
apnews.com
Reaching maximum employment will help close the racial wealth gap, says Howard University economics professor William Spriggs
Howard University economics professor William Spriggs said reaching maximum employment will help close the racial wealth gap.
Physical attacks on power grid rose by 71% last year, compared to 2021
One of those attacks occurred last December, with the deliberate shooting of power substations in Moore County, N.C., leaving 45,000 people in the dark for several days.
www.cbsnews.com
Focus: Top brands pull out of Russia, but their goods remain easy to find
Trucks carrying Coca Cola roll across the border into Russia, tourists return from abroad laden with Zara's latest designs, and local online marketplaces snap up IKEA's furniture stocks. Western brands may have left the country, but their goods haven't.
Religious freedom bill advances in West Virginia committee
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — A West Virginia legislative committee on Wednesday advanced a bill that would codify the right of residents to challenge government regulations that interfere with their religious beliefs.
apnews.com
Asian stocks rise after Wall St slides on rate hike fears
Asian stock markets are higher following Wall Street's biggest one-day decline in two months. Notes from a Federal Reserve meeting showed officials expect to keep interest rates high to fight stubborn inflation.
apnews.com
Canada's military tracked Chinese surveillance in the Arctic
The military has said it is "fully aware" of efforts by China to conduct surveillance in the north.
www.bbc.com
US gets OK for cattle-shooting operation in New Mexico
A U.S. district judge has cleared the way for federal officials to move ahead with plans to shoot dozens of wild cattle in a rugged area of southwestern New Mexico.
apnews.comBiden builds a new team to carry him across landmines
All bring particular skills suited to Biden’s desire for experienced hands to help steer the economy away from a possible recession.
www.politico.com
Ex-NFL player recovers after saving his kids from drowning
A former NFL running back says he’s on the road to recovery after he nearly died while saving his two children from drowning in the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida Panhandle
Rep. Mike Gallagher says Ukraine war wake-up call for Taiwan to stockpile weapons - Washington Examiner
Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) claimed that Russia's war with Ukraine should serve as a wake-up call for Taiwan to begin stockpiling weapons and increased pressure on the United States to supply weapons to the country ahead of a possible Chinese invasion. Gallagher, who met with Taiwanese leaders...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Baidu to implement ChatGPT-like Ernie Bot chatbot from March
Baidu Inc., one of China’s biggest search and artificial intelligence firms, says it plans to implement its artificial intelligence chatbot Ernie into its search services from March.
apnews.com
Trump lashes out at Swalwell over bill to ban former president and his associates from US Capitol
Former President Trump harshly criticized Rep. Eric Swalwell on Thursday over his bill that would ban Trump and several of his associates from the U.S. Capitol building.
Michigan GOP chair election underscores party’s divisions ahead of 2024
The selection of a far-right election denier to lead Michigan’s state GOP is underscoring divisions within the party as Republican leaders hope to unify heading into 2024. Kristina Karamo’s victory…
thehill.com
Virginia special election set to fill McClellan Senate seat
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — A special election has been set for March 28 to fill the vacancy in the Virginia Senate created by Richmond Democrat Jennifer McClellan's election to the U.S.
apnews.com
Haley sees popularity surge among conservatives after presidential campaign launch: poll
Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley (R) has seen a boost in popularity after launching her 2024 presidential campaign last week, according to a new Morning Consult poll released on Wed…
thehill.comGoogle tests blocking news content for some Canadians
Google is blocking some Canadian users from viewing news content in what the company says is a test run of a potential response to a Canadian government’s online news bill.
apnews.com
‘Rust’ production moving to Montana after New Mexico set shooting
The makers behind “Rust” say the film will move to Montana when it resumes production in the spring. “Rust’s” production studio announced Wednesday that it would begin filming in the coming months …
thehill.com
The raucous battle over Americans’ online privacy is landing on states
But industry critics are playing catch-up to a campaign that's made significant headway in several states, including Virginia and Utah, where weaker laws were enacted in recent years.
www.politico.com
Mortgage insurance costs dropping for some new homebuyers. Here's how much you could save.
The FHA is set to reduce the annual mortgage insurance premium from 0.85% to 0.55% for most new borrowers seeking an FHA-insured mortgage.
www.usatoday.com
Tech’s Supreme Court showdown: part two
Welcome to The Hill’s Technology newsletter {beacon} Technology Technology The Big Story Tech’s Supreme Court showdown: Part 2 It was round two for tech policy at the Su…
thehill.com
U.N. to mark one year of Ukraine war with vote to 'go down in history'
Marking one year of war, Ukraine and Russia lobbied countries at the United Nations on Wednesday for backing ahead of a vote by the 193-member General Assembly that the United States declared will "go down in history."
Lori Lightfoot accused of ignoring 'social contract' with police by lowballing COVID disability benefits
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has come under fire for leaving police officers who have suffered disabilities from COVID-19 behind after they were denied disability benefits.
Arkansas Senate committee endorses massive education bill
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — An Arkansas Senate panel endorsed on Wednesday a massive education bill that pairs a raise in starting teacher pay with several conservative-backed changes, including a voucher program directing public money to private schools.
apnews.com
Donald Trump says officials 'indifferent' after Ohio train derailment
The former president suggests Joe Biden is more interested in Ukraine, and the White House hits back.
www.bbc.com
Biden may not run — and top Dems are quietly preparing
The president no longer seems absolutely certain to go for a second term, leaving the party, his top aides and potential candidates unsure about ’24 and very quietly mulling plan B.
www.politico.com
Ukraine defends front, Putin talks up nuclear arsenal on war anniversary eve
Ukraine said its forces had repelled Russian assaults along the length of the front line on Thursday on the eve of the war's anniversary, as President Vladimir Putin, empty-handed after a bloody winter offensive, talked up Russia's nuclear arsenal.
Lawsuit: Steve Bannon owes $480K for unpaid legal bills
Steve Bannon’s latest legal trouble: a lawsuit alleging he stiffed his former lawyers out of more than $480,000.
apnews.com
Most young men are single. Most young women are not.
More than 60 percent of young men are single, nearly twice the rate of unattached young women, signaling a larger breakdown in the social, romantic and sexual life of the American male. Men i…
thehill.com
Schumer: McCarthy giving Jan. 6 footage to Tucker Carlson ‘worst security risk since 9/11’ - Washington Examiner
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy's (R-CA) decision to hand over security footage from the Jan. 6 Capitol riot to Fox News host Tucker Carlson creates "grave security risks" to the Capitol complex. Schumer wrote in a "Dear Colleague" letter...
www.washingtonexaminer.comJan. 6, election security and scandal: Congress' sleepiest committee heats up
The House Administration Committee has mostly remained unknown and uncontroversial. Its new GOP chair is looking to change the former reputation — and test the latter one.
www.politico.com
States look to remove legal protections for gun industry
DENVER (AP) — Mass shootings in America invariably raise questions of fault. The police's delayed response outside an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.
apnews.com
Los Angeles receives first-ever blizzard warning; up to 5 feet of snow predicted - Washington Examiner
Los Angeles received its first ever blizzard warning amid an unusual winter storm in the usually warm Southern California. The National Weather Service published a map of weather alerts, showing large swathes of southern California and the Midwest under blizzard warnings. In total, nearly 2.5...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Twitter argues before Supreme Court that letting ISIS use platform not the same as aiding and abetting terror
The Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday over whether social media companies can be held accountable if groups like ISIS use their platform to advance terrorism.
Deadlier and more media savvy, separatist rebels evolve in Indonesia's Papua
Egianus Kogoya, the dreadlocked rebel behind the kidnapping of a New Zealand pilot this month in the highlands of Indonesia’s Papua region, is at the vanguard of an increasingly dangerous and media-savvy insurgency for independence.
Senate votes to create legislative oversight of relief funds
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — The Kentucky Senate voted Wednesday to create a layer of legislative oversight for relief funds, like the ones created by Gov.
apnews.com
How CNN’s interview with Osama bin Laden became Supreme Court Big Tech flashpoint - Washington Examiner
Allegations that Twitter's hosting of unrelated content on its platform contributed to an Islamic State terrorist attack prompted Supreme Court justices to ask parties on Wednesday about what liability a business would have for dealing with Osama bin Laden.The Supreme Court was deliberating the...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Oversight Committee probes 'no-bid' DHS contract to law firm to handle Mayorkas impeachment efforts
Republicans on the House Oversight Committee are looking into a "no-bid" contract awarded to a private law firm to help Homeland Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas defend against impeachment.
Supreme Court declines to block execution in Florida
The Supreme Court on Wednesday declined to block the execution of a man on death row in Florida after he argued that his death sentence was unconstitutional. Donald Dillbeck, who was found guilty o…
thehill.com
Ukraine urges all nations to vote to preserve its territory
Ukraine’s foreign minister is urging the world’s nations as the anniversary of Russia’s invasion nears to prove they stand for the United Nations Charter and vote in favor of a U.N. resolution calling for a peace that ensures his war-ravaged country’s “sovereignty, independence, unity and territoria
apnews.com
With inflation still the focus, Fed minutes show openness to higher rates endgame
Minutes from the Jan. 31-Feb. 1 meeting said policymakers agreed rates would need to move higher, but that the shift to smaller-sized hikes would let them calibrate more closely with incoming data.
WATCH: Mark Wahlberg won’t ‘deny’ his faith, says it’s ‘not popular in my industry’ - Washington Examiner
Mark Wahlberg shared on Ash Wednesday why he won't "deny" his faith despite it being relatively unpopular in Hollywood. Featuring ashes on his forehead, the actor told host Savannah Guthrie on Today that he has always been open about his Catholic faith, but “I don’t want to jam it down anybody’s...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Joe Manchin 'not running' for president, considers political future as potential GOP challengers loom
Democratic West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin announced Wednesday he would not be running for president, but stopped short of saying whether he will run for re-election to the U.S. Senate.
Biden administration releases records to GOP-led panel probing COVID "Wuhan lab leak" theory
Committee chairman raises prospects of subpoenas for Dr. Anthony Fauci, NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.
www.cbsnews.com
Idaho bill would criminalize giving mRNA vaccines – the tech used in popular COVID vaccines
Republican Idaho lawmakers have introduced a bill that would criminalize the administration of mRNA vaccines, which is used in COVID vaccines.
www.usatoday.com
Flu vaccine worked well in season that faded fast, CDC says
Early estimates suggest the flu vaccine performed well in a U.S. winter flu season that has already dissipated.
apnews.com
A woman dies every 2 minutes during pregnancy or childbirth: Report
A new report stares that maternal mortality rates in the U.S. has increased over the past 20 years.
Merck's Covid Drug Not Effective At Preventing Household Transmission - KFF Health News
Merck and Co's late-stage trials failed to show that its oral antiviral Lagevrio, also known as molnupiravir, cut the risk of preventing covid from spreading to others living in the same house. Merck had hoped to build a case for use of the medication as prophylactic treatment.
khn.org
No cow needed: Oat and soy can be called milk, FDA proposes
Draft U.S. rules would allow soy, oat, almond and other drinks that bill themselves as “milk” to keep using the name.
apnews.com
Florida Surgeon General Joe Ladapo investigated for allegedly falsifying Covid report
The Florida Department of Health's inspector general closed the probe after the complainant wouldn't provide further information.
www.politico.com
Specific group of COVID-19 patients benefits the most from remdesivir, new analysis shows
Remdesivir was one of the first medications approved for treatment of COVID-19. Clinical studies evaluated its effectiveness, but did not generate conclusive results.
www.news-medical.net
Several schools across China shut to curb spread of Covid, other viral diseases
China’s unexpected rush to dismantle nearly all pandemic restrictions in early December unleashed the world’s biggest Covid outbreak, with nearly 90% of the country’s 1.4 billion population infected in less than two months.
Indiana lawmakers back defunding Kinsey sex institute
Indiana Republican lawmakers have voted to prohibit Indiana University from using any state money to support its sexual research institution after a far-right legislator unleashed disputed allegations of child exploitation by the famed mid-20th century researcher Alfred Kinsey.
apnews.com
Fact check: False claim that 100% of Canada's COVID-19 deaths caused by vaccine
Only four deaths in Canada are believed to be linked to COVID-19 vaccines, health officials say. More than 50,000 have died from COVID-19 itself.
www.usatoday.com
Celebrity tweets likely spread COVID-19 disinformation: study
Researchers concluded misinformation spread by these "societal elites" surrounding vaccination programs was likely to have had a strong level of influence on those who read it.
New Mexico legislative session forges ahead despite a COVID-19 outbreak
Three years into the pandemic, New Mexico lawmakers are still struggling to keep COVID-19 at an arm's length.
FDA expands recall of potentially contaminated eye products amid outbreak
The FDA says Delsam Pharma's Artificial Eye Ointment may be contaminated with bacteria, following outbreak of a drug-resistant strain.
www.cbsnews.com
Texas bill would ban nearly all gender-affirming care, including for trans adults
Senate Bill 1029 would make it illegal for nearly all trans people in the state to receive both surgical and nonsurgical treatments.
www.cbsnews.com
