Democrats in Congress are torn between supporting Biden for president and expressing concerns
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden’s controversial debate performance last week has caused a divide within the Democratic Party. Lawmakers are now grappling with a potential crisis that extends beyond the outcome of the presidential election. Despite criticism of his debate demeanor, Biden remains committed to running against Republican Donald Trump. Some Democrats in Congress are worried about Biden’s ability to convince voters that he is capable of the presidency. However, others continue to stand behind the 81-year-old president.
Trump celebrates legal victories while Biden’s campaign struggles post-debate
NEW YORK (AP) — Following President Joe Biden’s lackluster debate, Republican nominee Donald Trump has kept a low profile, allowing the focus to remain on the turmoil surrounding the Democratic Party. Trump and his campaign have recently experienced legal and political successes leading up to the Republican National Convention. These wins include a Supreme Court ruling granting former presidents immunity from prosecution and a judge’s decision to delay Trump’s sentencing in his New York criminal case.
Israel approves largest land grab in decades, speeding up West Bank settlement expansion
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel has authorized the largest confiscation of land in the occupied West Bank in over thirty years. Peace Now reported on Wednesday that authorities have approved the appropriation of nearly 5 square miles of land in the Jordan Valley. This move represents the largest single seizure of land since the Oslo accords in 1993. The expansion of settlements in the West Bank is seen as a major obstacle to achieving a lasting peace agreement by Palestinians and most of the international community deems these settlements as illegitimate. Israel views the West Bank as integral to its history and religion and opposes Palestinian statehood.
Deadly stampede at religious gathering in India leaves over 120 dead
LUCKNOW, India (AP) — More than 120 people lost their lives in a stampede at a religious event in northern India on Tuesday, marking one of the deadliest incidents of its kind in recent years. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the stampede, which occurred as a Hindu guru-led gathering was concluding. Factors such as overcrowding, lack of exits, inclement weather, and other conditions are believed to have contributed to the high death toll. The event, permitted for 80,000 attendees, attracted a crowd of 250,000.
Summer months witness rise in violence and mass shootings
Instances of violence and mass shootings tend to increase during the summer, particularly around the Fourth of July, which historically has been one of the deadliest days of the year. Data from the Gun Violence Archive shows that June, July, and August have consistently had the highest number of mass shootings over the past decade. Independence Day has seen 58 mass shootings in the last 10 years, attributed to various factors including social events, students being on break, and rising temperatures.
Historical precedent suggests challenges for Biden’s re-election bid
ATLANTA (AP) — While Democratic Party leaders publicly support President Joe Biden following a turbulent debate, there are concerns about the 81-year-old president’s ability to win a second term or defeat former President Donald Trump. Past presidential campaigns demonstrate that incumbents facing challenges within their party during an election year often struggle to secure re-election. Biden, facing doubts about his performance, must navigate a path to victory without significant primary challenges like those faced by George H.W. Bush, Jimmy Carter, and Gerald Ford.
Hurricane Beryl approaches Jamaica after causing destruction in the Caribbean
KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) — Hurricane Beryl is heading towards Jamaica after causing devastation in the southeast Caribbean, resulting in at least six fatalities and significant damage. Residents in Kingston are taking precautionary measures by boarding up windows and securing boats. Roadside advertising boards are being dismantled to protect them from strong winds as a hurricane warning remains in effect for several regions in the Caribbean. Beryl is expected to weaken but maintain major-hurricane strength as it passes over Jamaica.
Controversial plan to kill barred owls to save spotted owls
U.S. wildlife officials have approved a divisive plan to eliminate nearly half a million barred owls in West Coast forests to safeguard the habitat of the threatened spotted owls, which are being displaced by the invasive barred owls. This strategy diverges from past efforts that focused on conserving spotted owl habitats, underscoring the urgency to address the rising population of barred owls. The proposal to sacrifice one owl species to protect another has sparked debates among wildlife advocates and conservationists.
TikTok trends reshape consumer culture but face uncertain future
NEW YORK (AP) — TikTok’s influence in American consumerism has rapidly grown, revolutionizing trends in food and fashion within a short span of time. However, the app’s Chinese origins and its mounting popularity have sparked national security concerns. Congress has passed legislation to potentially ban TikTok unless its parent company, ByteDance, relinquishes control. While legal battles ensue, TikTok’s impact on social media culture remains unmatched and continues to evolve.
LeBron James extends contract with the Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James has agreed to a two-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, confirming his return for another season in the NBA. The deal includes an option for a second year, allowing James to become a free agent after next season. This decision could align James with his son Bronny, who could potentially join the Lakers. The agreement signifies James’ commitment to the team and sets the stage for future collaborations.
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