Trump dominates Biden in recent fundraising figures following felony convictions
NEW YORK (AP) β Recent federal filings show that Donald Trump’s campaign raised over $60 million more than President Joe Biden’s campaign last month. The surge in Republican fundraising was sparked by Trump’s felony convictions. Biden’s campaign, along with the Democratic National Committee, raised a solid $85 million in May and had $212 million in the bank by the end of the month. However, Trump’s fundraising in May eclipsed Biden’s, with the Trump campaign and the Republican National Committee reporting a staggering $141 million in donations. This significant increase in donations came shortly after Trump’s conviction on 34 felonies in the New York hush money case.
New Louisiana law mandating Ten Commandments display in classrooms reignites old political disputes
NEW ORLEANS (AP) β A newly signed law in Louisiana now requires the display of the Ten Commandments in every classroom of public schools and colleges. This law has reignited longstanding debates over the intersection of religion and government institutions. While a similar law in Kentucky was ruled unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1980, the recent 2022 Supreme Court ruling in favor of a high school football coach who prayed on the field has given hope to religious conservatives.
Border Patrol sees 25% decrease in arrests following Biden’s new asylum restrictions
WASHINGTON (AP) β Preliminary data from the federal government indicates that the number of arrests made by Border Patrol agents has decreased by 25% since President Joe Biden announced stricter asylum rules two weeks ago. These figures, released by Customs and Border Protection, provide some relief to the White House as it tries to demonstrate control over the southern border. Additionally, arrests in May dropped by 9%, marking the third-lowest month of Biden’s term. Acting CBP head Troy Miller stated that the agency’s efforts are effectively reducing border encounters, with Mexico also contributing to enforcement efforts on their side of the border.
Unprecedented insights into North Korea emerge from Putin-Kim summit
Recently released imagery from Pyongyang offers a rare window into North Korea, showcasing its leader Kim Jong Un’s meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This flurry of visual content provides a unique glimpse into a nation known for its secrecy, particularly surrounding the ruling Kim family. The coverage was released through governmental propaganda channels of both countries.
US to send air defense interceptor missiles to Ukraine, diverting shipments from other allies
WASHINGTON (AP) β The White House has announced plans to expedite the delivery of air defense interceptor missiles to Ukraine by redirecting shipments intended for other allied nations. This decision comes amidst heightened Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. National security spokesman John Kirby described the move as a necessary step to prioritize Ukraine’s urgent need for additional capabilities.
Campers beat the heat wave with blocks of lake ice
SQUAM LAKE, N.H. (AP) β As a heat wave grips parts of the country, guests at a New Hampshire campground are staying cool using blocks of ice harvested months earlier from a frozen lake. The ice blocks, preserved in sawdust, have been a tradition for over a century. Meanwhile, the National Weather Service warns of scorching temperatures in various regions, potentially surpassing all-time highs.
Appeals court denies delay in Steve Bannon’s prison term
WASHINGTON (AP) β A federal appeals court panel has rejected Steve Bannon’s request to avoid prison while appealing his conviction for contempt of Congress. Bannon, a close ally of Donald Trump, is set to begin serving a four-month sentence on July 1. This decision follows the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit upholding his conviction. Bannon may now seek relief from the Supreme Court.
Biden declares disaster in New Mexico fires
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) β President Joe Biden has issued a disaster declaration to provide additional resources as crews battle deadly fires in southern New Mexico. The aid will support recovery efforts, including housing assistance and loans for uninsured property damage. Thousands have been evacuated from the village of Ruidoso and neighboring areas, with firefighters utilizing favorable weather conditions to contain the fires.
Actor Donald Sutherland passes away at 88
NEW YORK (AP) β Esteemed actor Donald Sutherland has died at the age of 88 after a prolonged illness. Sutherland’s illustrious career spanned iconic roles in films such as “M.A.S.H.,” “JFK,” and “The Hunger Games.” Known for his unconventional characters, Sutherland transitioned into respected character roles and amassed nearly 200 film and television appearances. He received an honorary Oscar in 2017.
Celebrations honor Willie Mays and Negro League players at MLB game
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) β Events commemorating Willie Mays and other Negro League players took place at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama, ahead of a Major League Baseball game between the Giants and St. Louis Cardinals. The game, called “A Tribute to the Negro Leagues” by MLB, aimed to celebrate the legacy of Black baseball legends. The festivities commenced before the game and extended into a pregame ceremony.
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