Biden reaffirms commitment to staying in the race as he works to salvage his candidacy and participates in ABC interview
President Joe Biden is working hard to save his reelection campaign. During a campaign rally in a crucial battleground state, the president boldly stated on Friday, “I’m staying in the race” before sitting down for a television interview where his responses were closely scrutinized for signs of his competence and ability to run for office. Addressing about 300 supporters at a middle school in Wisconsin, Biden admitted to his lackluster performance in the previous week’s debate, acknowledging, “I can’t say it was my best performance.” However, in the face of speculation about his plans, he asserted, “I am running, and I will win again.”
Federal Reserve underscores its political independence as presidential campaign intensifies
Amid Donald Trump’s approaching formal nomination as the Republican candidate for president, the Federal Reserve is emphasizing the significance of its political autonomy. In its biannual report on interest-rate policies released on Friday, the Fed highlighted the necessity for the central bank to operate independently of political influences, focusing on analyses of job growth, inflation, interest rates, and economic trends.
Key takeaways from the UK’s recent general election that will shape future politics
Following the Labour Party’s decisive victory in the UK’s general election, resulting in the first change in government in 14 years and the Conservative Party’s largest defeat ever, significant lessons have emerged. The new government faces substantial challenges, including addressing the country’s economic and social issues exacerbated by Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine, and various Conservative Party scandals.
US military announces troop withdrawals from Niger bases after coup
The US military commander in Niger confirmed that all American forces and equipment will depart from a small base in the country this weekend, with fewer than 500 remaining troops set to leave a critical drone base in August. These withdrawals precede a September 15 deadline set in an agreement with the ruling junta following a coup. Maj. Gen. Kenneth Ekman stated that small teams of US troops, including special operations forces, have relocated to other West African countries, while the majority of remaining forces will initially head to Europe.
Preparations underway in Texas as Beryl moves over Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
After impacting Tulum in Mexico as a Category 2 hurricane, Beryl is departing the Yucatan Peninsula and expected to regain strength in the Gulf of Mexico. Texas officials have issued warnings for coastal residents as the storm is projected to make landfall in south Texas by late Sunday or early Monday. Despite causing damage in Tulum, Beryl resulted in no casualties, weakening to a tropical storm as it crossed the peninsula. Several Texas counties have issued voluntary evacuation orders for low-lying areas.
Vatican excommunicates former US ambassador and accuses him of schism
Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, a former Vatican ambassador to the US known for his criticism of Pope Francis, has been excommunicated for schism by the Vatican. The disciplinary action was taken after Vigano’s refusal to acknowledge the Supreme Pontiff, reject communion with fellow church members, and dispute the legitimacy of the Second Vatican Council.
Israeli raid in West Bank leads to casualties
Israeli military activity in the West Bank’s Jenin area resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, as confirmed by Palestinian authorities. The Israeli military stated that the operation aimed at countering terrorism, including an airstrike and an exchange of fire with armed individuals in a building. The Islamic Jihad militant group identified four of the deceased as its members.
Wisconsin Supreme Court allows expanded use of ballot drop boxes in upcoming elections
In a reversal of its previous decision, the Wisconsin Supreme Court has granted permission for the placement of ballot drop boxes in communities across the state for the upcoming elections. The court’s ruling now permits the use of drop boxes outside of election offices, enabling any individual to return a ballot in person. The decision follows a request from a progressive voter group and a 4-3 vote in favor of equating placing a ballot in a drop box to delivering it to a local election clerk.
Kansas Supreme Court upholds state’s constitutional protection of abortion rights
The Kansas Supreme Court reaffirmed the protection of abortion access under the state constitution, striking down anti-abortion laws and regulations that imposed stricter requirements on abortion providers. The court, which established access to abortion as a fundamental right in 2019, rejected arguments to reconsider its previous decision in favor of abortion rights. Additionally, a proposed amendment to the state constitution explicitly denying abortion as a fundamental right was rejected by voters.
Success of mental health therapy program in Zimbabwe leads to global adoption
A mental health therapy initiative involving park benches and a network of grandmothers in Zimbabwe has gained international attention for its effectiveness in providing support to individuals with mental health concerns. Inspired by traditional practices and established by a local psychiatrist, the Friendship Bench program equips community grandmothers with problem-solving therapy training, offering a vital support system to those in need. The concept has now been adopted in several regions, including parts of the United States.
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