Biden admits debate mistakes but vows to protect democracy. Democratic party stands by him, at least for now
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden acknowledged his subpar performance in the debate against former President Donald Trump. At a rally in North Carolina, Biden admitted that he is not the debater he once was, but emphasized the importance of the upcoming election. He stated, “The choice in this election is simple: Donald Trump will destroy our democracy. I will defend it.” While Democratic lawmakers have expressed some concerns, they are still supporting Biden for the time being. On the other hand, Trump continues to attack critics and propagate false information, showcasing the turbulent nature of his presidency.
Here’s why Democrats face challenges in replacing Joe Biden as their presidential nominee
WASHINGTON (AP) — It would be extremely difficult for Democrats to replace President Joe Biden as their nominee for the 2024 presidential election unless he decides to step down following his lackluster debate performance against Donald Trump. According to Democratic rules, the delegates Biden earned in state primaries are expected to back him at the upcoming national convention unless he withdraws from the race. While some members of the party are questioning Biden’s suitability as a candidate, it is not a straightforward process to replace him on the ballot. Although Vice President Kamala Harris is Biden’s running mate, she cannot automatically take over as the presidential nominee.
Supreme Court narrows scope of obstruction charge for Capitol riot defendants, including Trump
WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed disappointment with the Supreme Court’s ruling that makes it more challenging to charge Capitol riot defendants with obstruction. This charge has also been levied against former President Donald Trump. The justices decided that defendants must have attempted to tamper with or destroy documents to be charged with obstructing an official proceeding. This ruling only applies to a subset of the individuals who participated in the January 6 incident. Despite the limitations imposed by the court, Garland assured that the majority of cases related to the Capitol riot would not be affected. Trump lauded the decision as a significant victory for those arrested on January 6.
Divided Supreme Court allows cities to enforce bans on outdoor sleeping for the homeless
WASHINGTON (AP) — California Governor Gavin Newsome welcomed a Supreme Court ruling that permits cities to enforce bans on outdoor sleeping in West Coast regions, providing more authority to local officials to address homelessness. However, an attorney representing homeless individuals raised concerns that this decision could lead to punitive actions against people who have nowhere else to go. The Oregon case, decided by the high court, has profound implications for the homeless population in the U.S., but also raises ethical questions regarding the treatment of individuals living on the streets.
Supreme Court ruling on Chevron doctrine alters federal regulatory landscape
WASHINGTON (AP) — A recent Supreme Court ruling has the potential to impact numerous federal regulations that influence various aspects of daily life. The court rejected the Chevron doctrine, a legal principle that has upheld thousands of federal regulations for the past forty years. This decision shifts regulatory power from executive branch agencies such as the EPA to the courts. Critics of the Chevron doctrine, including conservatives and business groups, argue that it grants too much authority to the executive branch.
Challenges faced by the US-built pier for Gaza aid distribution
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military-constructed pier in Gaza has faced setbacks due to rough seas, raising uncertainties about its role in aiding Palestinian communities. Humanitarian organizations halted the distribution of supplies shipped through the pier on June 9 due to security concerns, and have not resumed operations. U.S. officials indicated that the pier might not be reinstalled unless aid agencies agree to resume aid distribution. As supplies from Cyprus accumulate on the shore, the capacity of the secure area in Gaza is nearing its limit. The journey of the pier has been marked by weather-related challenges and security issues.
Alec Baldwin’s involuntary manslaughter case moves forward towards trial
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The case against Alec Baldwin for involuntary manslaughter is proceeding towards trial set for July, after a judge rejected a request to dismiss the case due to alleged damage to key evidence during FBI forensic testing. Prosecutors welcomed the judge’s decision to continue with the trial, despite claims from defense attorneys that the gun involved in the shooting was significantly damaged during forensic testing by the FBI. With this ruling, prosecutors are closer to bringing the case to trial.
Detained individuals in Bolivia failed coup claim they were deceived; President distances himself
LA PAZ, Bolivia (AP) — Families of the 21 people detained for their alleged involvement in a failed coup in Bolivia express confusion and anxiety as they contend that they were unaware of any plot leading up to the incident. Many relatives of the detainees assert that their loved ones were following orders or believed they were part of a military exercise. The government has announced additional arrests, including former General Juan José Zuñiga, in connection with the failed coup.
Iran holds presidential election amidst rising tensions in the Middle East
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranians participated in an expedited election to replace the deceased hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi. The only reformist candidate in the race pledged to pursue “friendly relations” with Western nations in a bid to motivate supporters in an election marked by apathy. The vote presented voters with a selection of hard-line candidates and the relatively unknown Masoud Pezeshkian. As has been customary since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, women and advocates for significant change were barred from running in the election, which lacked oversight from international monitors. The election took place amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Initial election results are anticipated on Saturday.
Comedian and actor Martin Mull passes away at 80
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Renowned comedian and actor Martin Mull has died at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Mull gained recognition for his unique comic style showcased in the clubs along Hollywood’s Sunset Strip during the 1970s. He appeared in the TV series “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” created by Norman Lear and later headlined its spinoff, “Fernwood Tonight.” Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Mull featured in films such as “Mr. Mom” and “Clue” and had a recurring role on “Roseanne.” He also received acclaim for his guest appearances in “Arrested Development” and “Veep,” which earned him an Emmy nomination.
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