Biden admits to debate mistakes but vows to protect democracy. Democrats continue to support him — at least for now
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is addressing concerns within the Democratic party regarding his performance in the debate against former President Donald Trump. During a rally in North Carolina on Friday, Biden acknowledged that he is not as strong of a debater as he used to be but emphasized that the key issue in this election is the protection of democracy. Democratic lawmakers are expressing some worries but are standing by him for the time being. Meanwhile, Trump’s attacks on critics and his false claims are a reminder of the chaos that characterized his presidency.
Florida’s VP candidate dilemma: Would Rubio or Donalds have to relocate if chosen by Trump?
MIAMI (AP) — Two potential vice presidential candidates on Donald Trump’s list are from Florida, where the former president currently resides. This situation raises the possibility of his running mate having to move if they win the election, as the U.S. Constitution prohibits the president and vice president from residing in the same state. The individuals from Florida on the list are Sen. Marco Rubio and Rep. Byron Donalds. Legal experts suggest there are ways for the Trump campaign to address this issue, but it may pose challenges for the vice presidential candidate.
Supreme Court closes another eventful term with decision pending on Trump’s legal immunity
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court has made significant decisions across various issues in its final days of June, including abortion, guns, the environment, health, and securities fraud. The court is set to conclude its term on Monday, with a highly anticipated ruling on whether former President Donald Trump can be prosecuted for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Additionally, the court will determine the constitutionality of state laws regulating social media content moderation.
Doug Burgum’s shift on LGBTQ issues as he eyes presidential run raises eyebrows
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum’s approach to governance took a turn as he considered running for president in 2023. Initially focusing on economic matters, Burgum vetoed a bill in 2021 that aimed to ban transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports. However, as he explored a presidential bid, he signed bills imposing restrictions on transgender individuals, leading to criticism and accusations of changing priorities. Burgum is now being considered as a potential running mate for Donald Trump.
The resolution of Julian Assange’s 12-year saga in Saipan sparks interest
WASHINGTON (AP) — WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange’s sudden guilty plea was the result of negotiations that commenced a year and a half ago and intensified in recent months. The agreement reached by the Justice Department and Assange allowed him to admit guilt in a federal courthouse in Saipan, effectively resolving the longstanding legal dispute. Assange avoided extradition to the U.S. while pleading guilty to a felony charge, securing his freedom.
Attack on Israeli embassy guard in Serbia ends in fatality for the assailant
BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) — A Serbian police officer guarding the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade was injured by an attacker wielding a crossbow. The officer responded by fatally shooting the assailant, who targeted him in the neck. The wounded officer underwent surgery to remove the bolt from his neck and is in stable condition. The identity of the attacker is still under investigation, with Israel’s Foreign Ministry labeling it as an attempted terrorist attack.
Debate over Louisiana law mandating specific version of Ten Commandments continues
Concerns over preferential treatment have arisen in Louisiana following the implementation of a law requiring public schools and state-funded colleges to display a particular version of the Ten Commandments. Critics point out that the mandated text is a condensed variation of the Scripture passage in Exodus, with ties to a 1956 movie and a Protestant-oriented version. This controversy has prompted legal action questioning the law’s impact on religious freedom and the separation of church and state.
Dagestani Jewish community faces challenges after extremist attacks in southern Russia
Following deadly attacks by Islamic militants on religious institutions in Dagestan, Jews in the region express determination to rebuild and overcome adversity. The assaults, which claimed 21 lives and injured dozens, destroyed a historic synagogue in Derbent and highlighted the vulnerability of minorities in the volatile North Caucasus region. The Chief Rabbi of Russia emphasized the community’s resilience in the face of tragedy.
Renowned comedian and actor Martin Mull passes away at age 80
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Comedian and actor Martin Mull, known for his unique comedic style, has died at the age of 80 after battling a long illness. Mull gained fame for his performances in the 1970s on Hollywood’s Sunset Strip and later appeared in TV series such as “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” and “Fernwood Tonight.” His versatile career included roles in films like “Mr. Mom” and “Clue,” as well as TV shows like “Roseanne,” “Arrested Development,” and “Veep,” earning him critical acclaim.
Baseball legend Orlando Cepeda, known as ‘Baby Bull,’ passes away at 86
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Hall of Fame first baseman Orlando Cepeda, nicknamed “Baby Bull,” has died at the age of 86. The San Francisco Giants and his family announced his passing, with a moment of silence held in his honor during a game at Oracle Park. Cepeda, a trailblazing Puerto Rican player, left a lasting impact on the game of baseball through his skill and charisma.
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