Harris’ selection of Walz generates excitement in Midwestern states, leading to significant donations
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz are embarking on their first full day as running mates in Wisconsin and Michigan. The Harris campaign reported raising $36 million within 24 hours following the announcement of the vice presidential pick. The focus of Wednesday’s trip is to reinforce support among younger, diverse, and labor-friendly voters who played a crucial role in President Joe Biden’s 2020 victory. This coalition has shown signs of strain due to Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
9/11 hearings at Guantanamo Bay in turmoil after a surprise directive from the US defense chief
FORT MEADE, Md. (AP) — Military hearings for accused Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and two co-defendants at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, are in disarray following Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s decision to invalidate a plea agreement. Defense attorneys argue that the plea deal remains valid and have paused participation in pre-trial hearings while legal challenges to Austin’s decision are addressed. The judge overseeing the case has acknowledged concerns about external pressure on the proceedings. These recent events are the latest disruptions in the U.S. military’s prosecution of defendants linked to the 2001 attacks.
US abortion rates see a slight increase post Roe v. Wade overturn, study reveals
A recent report indicates a marginal rise in monthly abortion numbers in the U.S. during the first three months of 2024 compared to pre-Roe v. Wade times. The #WeCount report attributes this increase to laws in some Democratic-controlled states that safeguard prescribers using telemedicine in areas with abortion restrictions. The latest survey data shows an average of nearly 99,000 abortions per month, up from 84,000 in the two months before the Dobbs decision. January marked the first instance of the survey counting over 100,000 abortions nationwide in a single month.
Hamas announces a new leader and implications for the conflict in Gaza and peace efforts
Yahya Sinwar’s appointment as Hamas’ top leader solidifies a position he assumed after orchestrating a deadly attack on Israel in October. He is viewed as a hard-liner with stronger ties to Hamas’ militant wing than his predecessor, Ismail Haniyeh, who was recently killed in an explosion in Iran. Sinwar is believed to hold significant influence over any Gaza cease-fire agreements and the release of Israeli hostages. However, his secrecy in Gaza raises questions about his ability to lead an organization spanning the Middle East.
Putin accuses Ukraine of a ‘large-scale provocation’ following a raid in southwestern Russia
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced a Ukrainian incursion into the Kursk region as a “large-scale provocation” amidst ongoing cross-border clashes. Ukrainian officials have not provided details on the operation, which could be among Ukraine’s most significant since Russia’s invasion in 2022. This move may be an attempt to divert Russian forces and weaken Moscow’s operations in eastern Ukraine. However, it risks stretching Ukrainian troops thin along the front lines.
Simone Biles’ impact at the Paris Olympics highlighted in new report
PARIS (AP) — Every action by Simone Biles at the Paris Olympics has been scrutinized, from her medal wins to social media controversies. As the most decorated gymnast in history, Biles’ authenticity and achievements have made her an enduring figure beyond Olympic cycles. Her ability to thrive under pressure has resonated with millions worldwide.
Tropical Storm Debby affects the East Coast and reaches as far as the Great Lakes
CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Tropical Storm Debby’s impact has extended to the Great Lakes, causing heavy rain and flooding in areas like New Jersey. The storm’s center hovers over the Atlantic Ocean near Charleston, South Carolina, after affecting Florida and the Carolinas. Debby is anticipated to make another landfall in the Carolinas, posing risks of further flooding.
Bangladesh’s incoming interim leader Yunus urges calm ahead of oath-taking
DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) — Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, set to lead an interim government in Bangladesh, has called for calm amid post-uprising violence. Yunus, congratulating students for their role, is returning from abroad with plans to rebuild the nation. He is scheduled to be sworn in as the head of an interim government on Thursday.
US safety board to query officials on FAA oversight of Boeing following 737 incident
WASHINGTON (AP) — Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration face scrutiny over a 737 Max jetliner malfunction. The National Transportation Safety Board is inquiring about the incident that prompted Boeing to redesign a part that detached from an Alaska Airlines aircraft. FAA representatives will be questioned on their oversight of Boeing and any changes post-accident.
Great Barrier Reef records highest ocean temperatures in 400 years, study shows
WASHINGTON (AP) — Ocean temperatures in the Great Barrier Reef peaked at 400-year highs over the past decade, researchers reveal. Data reconstructed from coral samples show a stable temperature trend before 1900, followed by a consistent rise from 1960 to 2024. Recent years saw significantly elevated temperatures during mass bleaching events, raising concerns about the reef’s survival without meaningful climate action.
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