2 days ago
voter rolls
election integrity
DOJ guidance
DOJ issues new voter roll guidance, expert warns of intimidation
TLDR
- DOJ releases guidelines on removing voters from rolls, emphasizing compliance with federal law.
- Former DOJ attorney criticizes guidance, suggesting it may discourage lawful voter list maintenance.
- Guidelines prohibit voter removals within 90 days of federal elections.
- Controversy arises over potential noncitizen voters in Arizona's voter rolls.
- House Speaker plans vote on bill addressing noncitizen voting amid government shutdown concerns.
Last week
Trump
legal cases
campaign finance
Trump holds news conference, prepares to address police group
Last week
immigration
parole program
border crisis
Biden administration's parole program under scrutiny
Latest news
2 days ago
voter rolls
election integrity
DOJ guidance
DOJ issues new voter roll guidance, expert warns of intimidation
- DOJ releases guidelines on removing voters from rolls, emphasizing compliance with federal law.
- Former DOJ attorney criticizes guidance, suggesting it may discourage lawful voter list maintenance.
- Guidelines prohibit voter removals within 90 days of federal elections.
- Controversy arises over potential noncitizen voters in Arizona's voter rolls.
- House Speaker plans vote on bill addressing noncitizen voting amid government shutdown concerns.
Last week
Trump
legal cases
campaign finance
Trump holds news conference, prepares to address police group
- Trump held a 45-minute news conference in New York, airing complaints about legal cases.
- He's scheduled to address the Fraternal Order of Police in Charlotte later.
- Trump faces multiple legal challenges, including criminal and civil cases.
- His campaign raised $130 million in August, significantly less than Harris's $361 million.
- Trump's family issues pale in comparison to his own familial criticisms.
- He continues to dismiss allegations against him, calling them 'fake cases'.
Last week
elections
media
politics
Kamala Harris yet to hold formal press conference as Democratic nominee
- Kamala Harris hasn't held a formal press conference in 61 days as Democratic nominee.
- Harris has given interviews, but avoided traditional press conferences.
- Trump contrasts by holding multiple news conferences and interviews.
- Harris's economic policy answer in recent interview drew criticism.
- Conservative commentators note Harris's lack of press conferences but suggest media gives her a pass.
Last week
immigration
parole program
border crisis
Biden administration's parole program under scrutiny
- Nearly 530,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela granted parole through August 2024.
- Over 813,000 individuals scheduled appointments for parole via CBP One app.
- Republicans argue Biden's use of parole is unlawful and breaches case-by-case basis requirement.
- DHS defends parole, citing 99% reduction in encounters between ports of entry.
- Fraud instances and crimes allegedly committed by paroled migrants intensify debate.
Last week
Presidential Debate
Election 2024
Philadelphia
Harris and Trump set for pivotal presidential debate
- Harris and Trump to face off in first presidential debate in Philadelphia.
- Debate seen as crucial opportunity for Harris to introduce herself to voters.
- Trump faces challenges in navigating attacks against first woman of color nominee.
- Both candidates prepare differently: Harris in mock debates, Trump in informal sessions.
- Early voting begins soon in key states, increasing debate's importance.
Last week
Haiti
Blinken
US foreign policy
Blinken visits Haiti to support struggling government
- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits Haiti to show support for interim government.
- Blinken announces $45 million in humanitarian aid for Haiti.
- Haiti faces ongoing challenges with gang violence and political instability.
- U.S.-backed international policing mission struggles to make significant impact.
- Elections planned for next year, with power transfer targeted for early 2026.
Last week
Everglades
invasive species
conservation
Florida Python Challenge Removes Nearly 200 Invasive Snakes
- Annual Florida Python Challenge removed 195 Burmese pythons from the Everglades.
- 857 participants from 33 states and Canada joined the 10-day hunt.
- Ronald Kiger won the $10,000 grand prize for removing 20 pythons.
- Challenge raises awareness about the threat pythons pose to the ecosystem.
- Since 2017, over 14,000 pythons have been removed from the Everglades.
- Pelosi insists Kamala Harris won an 'open' Democratic primary after Biden's withdrawal.
- Harris became nominee without facing competition, contradicting Pelosi's claim of openness.
- Critics call Pelosi's comments a 'joke' and 'lie' about the nomination process.
- Experts argue party had limited options given the short timeframe before the election.
- Some compare Harris' nomination to historical party selection methods pre-1968.
1 month ago
Hezbollah
Israel
Explosions
Explosion triggers panic in Lebanon amid ongoing tensions
- Thousands of handheld pagers exploded across Lebanon, killing 37 and injuring over 3,000.
- Israel is believed to be behind the attacks, targeting devices of Hezbollah group.
- The incident revives trauma from the 2020 Beirut port explosion.
- Lebanon faces political instability, economic crisis, and threat of war with Israel.
- Hezbollah leader vows retaliation, escalating tensions with Israel.
5 months ago
Tony Dungy
Kamala Harris
abortion debate
Tony Dungy questions Kamala Harris' faith-based tweet on abortion rights
- NFL Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy challenges VP Harris' tweet on faith and abortion.
- Dungy asks which faith Harris refers to, citing Christian beliefs on life and unborn children.
- Harris pledges to sign bill reinstating Roe v. Wade protections if elected president.
- Trump supports overturning Roe v. Wade, allowing states to handle abortion issues.
- Debate arises over interpretation of faith, government role, and abortion rights.
6 months ago
AI safety
international collaboration
technology policy
US to host first AI safety network summit
- US plans AI safety summit in November to align nations on tech goals.
- International Network of AI Safety Institutes to convene in San Francisco.
- Summit aims to address AI-related concerns, including election forgeries and deepfakes.
- Experts from academia and tech industry invited to provide insights.
6 months ago
döner kebab
food regulation
cultural cuisine
Turkey seeks to regulate Germany's döner kebab industry
- Turkey proposes strict regulations for döner kebab production in Germany.
- German döner kebab industry generates €2.3 billion annually.
- German officials and associations oppose Turkey's regulatory efforts.
- Debate highlights cultural significance of döner kebab in Germany.
- Proposed regulations could impact kebab preparation and economic viability.
6 months ago
RFK Jr.
2024 Election
Swing States
RFK Jr. faces ballot access challenges in swing states
- RFK Jr. remains on ballots in Michigan, North Carolina, and Wisconsin despite campaign suspension.
- Kennedy's presence on swing state ballots could potentially impact Trump's performance.
- Ballot removal rules and deadlines prevent Kennedy's name from being removed in these states.
- Kennedy's supporters tend to favor Trump over Harris in polls.
- Historical precedents show withdrawn candidates can still receive significant votes.
6 months ago
inflation
election
voter priorities
High prices remain top voter concern, Fox News poll finds
- 66% of voters cite grocery prices as a major family problem, up from 62% in May.
- Housing costs are a major concern for 60% of voters, a 13-point increase since May.
- High prices are the main motivator for 39% of voters in the upcoming election.
- Economy remains the top issue, followed distantly by immigration and abortion.
- Trump leads on economy and immigration issues, while Harris leads on abortion.
6 months ago
JD Vance
School Shootings
Gun Control
JD Vance calls school shootings a 'fact of life'
- Vance describes school shootings as an unpleasant reality that must be addressed.
- He advocates for increased school security rather than stricter gun laws.
- Vance's comments follow a shooting at Apalachee High School in Georgia.
- Democrats criticize Vance's stance, advocating for gun control measures instead.
6 months ago
UNRWA
Gaza
humanitarian aid
Democratic lawmakers push to restore funding for UN agency with alleged Hamas ties
- Democratic representatives introduce bill to restore US funding for UNRWA.
- UNRWA faced allegations of staff involvement in October 7 attacks on Israel.
- US remains the only major donor country to maintain funding suspension.
- Bill sponsors emphasize UNRWA's crucial role in providing aid to Palestinians.
- Critics argue restoring funding could indirectly support terrorism.
6 months ago
passport renewal
digital services
State Department
US launches online passport renewal system
- State Department introduces fully operational online passport renewal system for eligible adults.
- New system bypasses traditional paper application process, offering convenience and efficiency.
- Online renewal available for passports expired within 5 years or expiring within 1 year.
- Processing time estimated at 6-8 weeks, but actual turnaround may be faster.
- System currently unavailable for children's passports, first-time applicants, and expedited services.
6 months ago
voter demographics
Gen Z
gender gap
Journalist says Democrats' advantage with young men has disappeared
- Democrats' advantage with young male voters is 'completely gone', says Puck News journalist.
- Trump's 'macho brand' appeals to Gen Z men, while Harris struggles to attract them.
- Harris leads young women by 38 points, but only leads young men by 3 points.
- Economic factors and cultural issues contribute to the shift in young male voter preferences.
- Democrats lack a 'cool guy candidate' to appeal to young men effectively.
6 months ago
Hezbollah
Israel
supply chain
Hezbollah pager attack raises supply chain security concerns
- Israeli attack caused thousands of Hezbollah pagers to explode, killing members.
- Incident highlights vulnerabilities in global electronics supply chains.
- Attack may accelerate efforts to localize production of critical technologies.
- Experts call the operation unprecedented in scale and casualty count.
- Incident could lead to increased scrutiny of international electronics shipments.
- Israeli Air Force strikes 100 Hezbollah launchers and infrastructure sites in Lebanon.
- Hezbollah retaliates, targeting northern Israel and killing two Israeli soldiers.
- Escalating tensions raise fears of potential all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah.
- Israeli officials warn northern residents to stay near bomb shelters.
- Hezbollah leader threatens retaliation for recent attacks on communication devices.
6 months ago
Iran
Russia
ballistic missiles
US accuses Iran of sending ballistic missiles to Russia
- Iran has delivered short-range ballistic missiles to Russia, according to US Secretary of State Blinken.
- The US and allies have imposed new sanctions on Iran in response to the missile shipments.
- Russia is expected to use the Iranian missiles within weeks, potentially escalating the Ukraine conflict.
- Iran denies sending weapons to Russia, calling the accusations propaganda.
- The US warns of deepening security cooperation between Iran and Russia.
6 months ago
Ukraine
Russia
Orthodox Church
Lobbying battle over future of Orthodox Church in Ukraine
- Lobbyists hired by Russian Orthodox ally campaign against Ukraine's religious policies.
- Ukraine passes law banning religious organizations with ties to Russia.
- Ukrainian officials claim some UOC clergymen assisted Russia during the invasion.
- Debate centers on UOC's ties to Moscow versus desire for independent Ukrainian church.
- Pro-Ukraine groups counter with testimonies of Russian oppression of non-Orthodox faiths.
- U.S. lawmakers and public opinion influenced by competing lobbying efforts.
6 months ago
Gun Violence
Presidential Election
School Shooting
Georgia school shooting elevates gun violence as campaign issue
- Georgia school shooting thrusts gun violence into spotlight of presidential race.
- Harris and Democrats call for new gun restrictions after the tragedy.
- Trump and Republicans focus on portraying the shooting as an act of evil.
- Biden urges Republicans to work with Democrats on gun control measures.
- Candidates' contrasting approaches to gun violence could influence voter decisions.
7 months ago
Sextortion
Cybercrime
Nigeria
Nigerian brothers jailed in US for sextortion scam targeting teenagers
- Two Nigerian brothers sentenced to 17.5 years for sextorting a 17-year-old who took his own life.
- First successful prosecution of Nigerians for sextortion in the US, a growing cyber-crime.
- Brothers lured victims by posing as teenage girls on Instagram, then blackmailed them.
- 38 US victims identified, including 13 minors; case linked to wider Nigerian cybercrime trend.
- Experts hope sentencing will deter other criminals and raise awareness about sextortion dangers.
7 months ago
academic controversy
tenure dispute
free speech
Former University of Wisconsin leader fights to keep teaching job amid porn controversy
- Joe Gow, ex-chancellor of UW-La Crosse, argues to retain tenure after porn-making scandal.
- University attorneys claim Gow harmed the institution's reputation and mission.
- Gow contends his adult content is protected by First Amendment rights.
- UW-La Crosse faculty committee unanimously recommended Gow lose his position.
- Decision on Gow's future to be made by University of Wisconsin Board of Regents.
8 months ago
military
government shutdown
legislation
House Republicans move to protect military paychecks amid shutdown fears
- Rep. Jen Kiggans reintroduces Pay Our Troops Act to ensure military pay during potential shutdown.
- Bill gains bipartisan support with 20 House lawmakers backing the legislation.
- Proposal comes after failure to pass Speaker Johnson's plan to avert government shutdown.
- Legislation would cover all service branches, including Coast Guard and some defense contractors.
- Congress faces September 30 deadline to reach funding agreement and avoid partial shutdown.
10 months ago
legislation
teenagers
mental health
Australia proposes minimum age for social media use
- Australian government plans to set minimum age limit for social media use, citing mental health concerns.
- Prime Minister Albanese favors age limit as high as 16, legislation to be introduced this year.
- Experts warn of potential unintended consequences, including limiting access to online support.
- Some Australian states have already moved to implement social media age restrictions.
- Critics argue the move is rushed and may distract from holding social media companies accountable.
- Hunter Biden pleaded guilty to tax charges, potentially facing up to 17 years in prison.
- He was previously convicted of illegal gun possession as a drug user.
- Experts estimate a possible sentence of two to four years for tax evasion.
- Biden's sentencing for gun charges is set for November, with tax charges in December.
- President Joe Biden has pledged not to pardon his son, but speculation remains.
11 months ago
MAGA
conspiracy theories
extremism
Laura Loomer gains influence in Trump's inner circle
- Far-right influencer Laura Loomer has become a fixture in Trump's political entourage.
- Loomer has attended debates, rallies, and a 9/11 memorial with Trump.
- GOP figures criticize Loomer's extremist views, but Trump defends her as a 'free spirit'.
- Loomer's conspiracies and rhetoric appear to be influencing Trump's public statements.
- Some speculate Loomer could join a potential future Trump administration.
11 months ago
housing
legislation
enforcement
California governor signs new housing enforcement laws
- Governor Newsom signed 32 housing bills to enforce state laws and boost affordable housing.
- New laws require cities to plan for low-income housing and streamline permitting processes.
- Attorney General can pursue civil penalties against non-compliant cities and counties.
- Critics argue the laws are out-of-touch and will harm local communities.
- Newsom's administration has invested billions in affordable housing and homelessness solutions.
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- CFTC opposes Kalshi's attempt to offer bets on congressional election outcomes.
- Agency argues election gambling threatens public interest and election integrity.
- Kalshi claims ban would push betting to unregulated platforms.
- Appeals court grills both CFTC and Kalshi on legal arguments.
- Debate centers on market manipulation risks and regulatory oversight.
1 year ago
Farewell Address
National Unity
Political Parties
George Washington issues Farewell Address on this day in 1796
- Washington's Farewell Address was published on September 19, 1796, as he approached the end of his second term.
- He warned of the dangers of regional divisions and political parties to national unity.
- Washington voluntarily relinquished power, setting the precedent for a two-term presidency.
- The address emphasized the importance of national identity over local affiliations.
- His message of unity remains relevant and is still read annually in the U.S. Senate.
1 year ago
Lincoln
Rushmore
sculpture
Abraham Lincoln carving dedicated at Mount Rushmore on this day in 1937
- Lincoln's likeness on Mount Rushmore was officially dedicated on September 17, 1937.
- Mount Rushmore features 60-foot-tall faces of four U.S. presidents carved into granite.
- The project aimed to attract tourism to South Dakota's Black Hills region.
- Construction took 14 years, costing $1 million with 85% federal funding.
- Mount Rushmore now attracts over two million visitors annually.
1 year ago
Jimmy Carter
Kamala Harris
US Politics
Jimmy Carter supports Harris's presidential run as he nears 100
- Jimmy Carter, 99, shows renewed interest in politics as his 100th birthday approaches.
- Carter expresses support for Kamala Harris's presidential campaign.
- The former president criticizes Donald Trump and worries about Netanyahu's influence.
- Carter's family reports his improved engagement following a period of low spirits.
- Various events planned to celebrate Carter's 100th birthday on October 1st.
- Israeli military concludes nine-day operation in Jenin, leaving 36 Palestinians dead.
- Operation targeted militant strongholds, with hundreds of troops involved.
- Residents emerge to assess damage, including destroyed infrastructure and homes.
- IDF claims to have eliminated terrorists and dismantled terror infrastructure.
- Spike in violence in West Bank since Hamas attack and Gaza war.
1 year ago
Election 2024
Campaign Finance
Harris
Harris Raises $361 Million in August, Outpacing Trump
- Harris's campaign raised $361 million in August, nearly triple Trump's $130 million.
- Harris campaign reports $404 million cash on hand, compared to Trump's $295 million.
- Nearly 3 million donors contributed, including 1.3 million first-time donors.
- Harris campaign plans $370 million media effort for final two months.
- Campaign attributes success to grassroots enthusiasm and high-profile events.
1 year ago
Election2024
SwingStates
ElectoralCollege
Key swing states could decide 2024 election
- Georgia and Pennsylvania emerge as crucial battlegrounds for 2024 presidential race.
- Trump campaign heavily focusing ad spending on Georgia and Pennsylvania.
- Winning Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania could secure victory for Trump.
- Harris leads in Pennsylvania polls, while Trump has slight edge in Georgia.
- Electoral math makes these states pivotal for both candidates' paths to 270 votes.
- Egyptian archaeologists uncover bronze sword from Ramesses II's military in Housh Eissa.
- Excavation site reveals military barracks, storage rooms, and various artifacts from New Kingdom era.
- Sword bears hieroglyphic symbol of Ramesses II, believed to be the Exodus pharaoh.
- Discovery provides insights into daily lives and military activities of ancient Egyptian soldiers.
- Fort served as key outpost protecting Egyptian borders from Sea Peoples.
1 year ago
FederalEmployees
PayRaise
UnionResponse
Federal employee unions criticize Biden's 2% pay raise proposal
- Biden proposes 2% pay raise for federal workers, less than military and inflation rates.
- Unions express disappointment, calling the proposal a setback and potential pay cut.
- Democrats push for 7.4% increase, citing need to attract and retain skilled workforce.
- White House cites fiscal constraints and budget deal for the lower raise amount.
- Pay disparity between federal and private sector workers remains a contentious issue.
1 year ago
Biden
Polls
2024 Election
Biden sees improved polling numbers after ending 2024 campaign
- Biden's approval rating rises to 48% in USA Today/Suffolk University poll.
- Multiple polls show Biden's best numbers in months or years.
- Factors may include reduced visibility, convention bounce, and improved economic indicators.
- Harris's rising popularity could contribute to Biden's improved image.
- Biden's approval nearing average politician's ratings, potentially weakening Trump's strategy.
1 year ago
West Bank
Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Activism
American activist shot dead in occupied West Bank
- Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, 26, killed during protest against Jewish settlement expansion near Nablus.
- IDF investigating reports of foreign national's death due to shots fired in the area.
- US and Turkish officials condemn the killing and demand investigation.
- Incident occurs as Israeli forces conclude major operation in Jenin refugee camp.
- Debate continues over legality of Israeli settlements in occupied territories.