Beginning the high-stakes elections in France, where the far right is leading in the polls
PARIS (AP) — Mainland France is currently voting in the first round of parliamentary elections that could potentially see far-right parties take control of the government. This outcome could have far-reaching effects on European financial markets, Western support for Ukraine, and the management of France’s nuclear arsenal. Many French voters are expressing frustration over inflation and economic concerns, viewing President Emmanuel Macron as out-of-touch. Marine Le Pen’s anti-immigration National Rally party has capitalized on this discontent and has been leading in pre-election polls. Meanwhile, a new left-wing coalition is challenging Macron’s moderate leadership.
Facing criticism after the presidential debate, Jill Biden is emphasizing unity and perseverance
EAST HAMPTON, N.Y. (AP) — Jill Biden has been actively defending her husband following his lackluster debate performance against Republican Donald Trump. The first lady is highlighting her husband’s qualities and determination to serve another term as president. She is making it clear that there is no intention to back down from their campaign despite calls for Joe Biden to step aside. Jill Biden has always been a key supporter and confidant of her husband, but her role has become even more prominent this year, leading some Trump supporters to question her influence over the campaign.
Democrats express frustration over Biden’s debate performance in a private call
NEW YORK (AP) — Democratic officials are growing increasingly concerned about the lack of acknowledgment from Joe Biden’s campaign and the Democratic National Committee regarding the impact of his poor debate performance. During a call with DNC Chairman Jaime Harrison, there was no mention of Biden’s weak showing or the criticism that followed. Instead, the focus was on a positive outlook for the president’s campaign, ignoring the fears of many committee members. The call did not allow for questions, leaving some feeling unheard.
Hurricane Beryl on track to become a powerful Category 4 storm in the Caribbean
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Hurricane Beryl is expected to intensify into a dangerous Category 4 storm as it approaches the southeast Caribbean. Governments in the region are urging residents to seek shelter as the storm approaches. Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines are under hurricane warnings. The National Hurricane Center in Miami is warning of life-threatening winds and storm surge. Beryl, with maximum sustained winds of 115 mph, is moving westward at 21 mph.
Efforts underway to prevent further escalation between Israel and Hezbollah
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S., European, and Arab mediators are working to prevent the cross-border exchanges of attacks between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah from escalating into a broader conflict. Diplomats are also trying to find a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza to reduce tensions with Hezbollah and other Iranian-linked militias. While there has been a decrease in attacks between Israel and Hezbollah recently, the situation remains precarious, with fears of a larger conflict still looming.
Deep distrust of political leaders shared by American and British voters in 2024
DARTFORD, England (AP) — Voters in both the U.K. and the U.S. are going to the polls in 2024 amid widespread distrust of their leaders and governments. Scandals, lies, and misinformation have eroded optimism and enthusiasm among voters. The Biden-Trump rematch is marked by personal attacks, while in the U.K., voters are seeking a change after 14 years under the Conservatives. The 2024 elections offer a glimpse into the challenges facing two of the world’s largest democracies.
LGBTQ+ Pride month culminates with celebrations and protests in major cities
NEW YORK (AP) — LGBTQ+ Pride month will conclude with vibrant parades and festivities in cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. These events serve both as celebrations and political demonstrations. Tensions regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict have impacted some Pride celebrations, revealing divisions within the community. Pro-Palestinian activists have disrupted events, leading to increased security measures.
WestJet cancels flights after a surprise strike by maintenance workers
TORONTO (AP) — WestJet, Canada’s second largest airline, has canceled over 400 flights affecting thousands of passengers due to a strike by maintenance workers. The strike, which occurred during the Canada Day long weekend, followed a ministerial order for binding arbitration issued by the federal government. Turbulent negotiations between the airline and the union failed to reach a resolution.
Video shows fatal shooting of 13-year-old with a replica gun by police
NEW YORK (AP) — Newly released video shows a police officer in upstate New York fatally shooting a 13-year-old boy who was tackled to the ground after running from the police while pointing a replica handgun. The incident occurred after the youth pointed the replica gun at officers. The state attorney general will lead an investigation to determine if the shooting was justified.
Garbage pickers in India face increasingly dangerous working conditions due to extreme heat
JAMMU, India (AP) — In India, as many as 4 million people work as waste pickers, sifting through landfills to find items to sell. Climate change has made this already challenging job even more perilous, with rising temperatures leading to dangerous working conditions. Landfill fires, increased emissions, and extreme heat contribute to the risks faced by garbage pickers like 65-year-old Usmaan Shekh in Jammu. Despite the dangers, many waste pickers rely on this work to support their families.
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