Biden acknowledges debate stumbles but vows to defend democracy. Democrats stand by him – for now
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is addressing concerns among Democrats regarding his performance in the debate with former President Donald Trump. Biden admitted at a rally in North Carolina on Friday that he is not the debater he once was, but he emphasized, “The choice in this election is simple: Donald Trump will destroy our democracy. I will defend it.” While Democratic lawmakers are expressing worry, they are still supporting him at this time. Meanwhile, Trump continues to attack critics and spread falsehoods, underscoring the ongoing chaos of his presidency.
Challenges in Replacing Joe Biden on the Presidential Ticket
WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats face significant hurdles in replacing President Joe Biden as their 2024 presidential nominee unless Biden voluntarily steps aside following his lackluster debate performance against Donald Trump. According to Democratic rules, the delegates Biden won in state primaries are required to support him at the upcoming national convention unless he withdraws from the race. Biden’s performance has prompted some within his party to question whether he should be replaced on the ballot before the November election. Vice President Kamala Harris, while Biden’s running mate, cannot automatically take his place at the top of the ticket.
Supreme Court Decision Impacts Capitol Riot Defendants and Trump
WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General Merrick Garland expresses disappointment in the Supreme Court’s ruling that makes it more challenging to charge Capitol riot defendants with obstruction, a charge also faced by former President Donald Trump. The justices stated that the charge of obstructing an official proceeding must involve evidence showing that defendants attempted to tamper with or destroy documents. Garland notes that only a portion of the individuals involved in the January 6 attack fall into this category, but the decision will not affect the majority of cases related to the incident. Trump hails the ruling as a significant victory for those arrested on January 6.
Divided Supreme Court Allows Outdoor Sleeping Bans
WASHINGTON (AP) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom applauds a Supreme Court decision that permits cities to enforce bans on outdoor sleeping in West Coast areas, giving local officials more flexibility to address the homelessness crisis. However, an attorney for homeless individuals expresses concern that this ruling could lead to punishment for those who have nowhere else to go. The case from Oregon, decided by a 6-3 vote along ideological lines, marks a significant ruling on the homelessness issue in the U.S., affecting a growing number of people. The decision strikes down a previous ruling that deemed outdoor sleeping bans as cruel and unusual punishment.
Supreme Court Ruling Impacts Federal Regulators
WASHINGTON (AP) — A broad Supreme Court ruling on the legal doctrine known as Chevron is poised to impact federal regulations across various aspects of daily life, shifting power from executive branch agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency to the courts. The decision, which rejects the 40-year-old Chevron doctrine, is a win for conservatives and business groups who argue that it gives excessive power to the executive branch and poses a threat to constitutional separation of powers.
Uncertainty Surrounds Gaza Aid Distribution
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military-built pier in Gaza, intended for distributing aid to Palestinians, has been removed due to rough seas, raising doubts about its future role in humanitarian efforts. Aid organizations halted distribution of supplies received via the pier on June 9 due to security concerns and have not resumed operations. U.S. officials suggest that the pier may not be reinstalled unless aid agencies reach an agreement to resume distribution. The accumulation of food and provisions from Cyprus on the Gaza shore is reaching capacity amid ongoing challenges faced by the pier.
Alec Baldwin’s Involuntary Manslaughter Case Headed to Trial
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Involuntary manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin are set for trial in July following a judge’s denial of a request to dismiss the case due to alleged FBI mishandling of key evidence during forensic testing. The judge’s decision to move forward with the case comes after prosecutors argued that the firearm involved in the shooting was damaged during FBI testing, potentially impacting the actor-producer’s defense. The ruling paves the way for the trial to proceed without further delays.
Families Plea for Mercy in Bolivian Coup Detainee Case
LA PAZ, Bolivia (AP) — Families of the 21 individuals detained on accusations of participating in a failed coup in Bolivia express confusion and anxiety, maintaining that their loved ones were misled and unaware of any plot leading up to the incident. Many relatives claim that the detainees were following orders or were falsely informed that they were partaking in a military exercise. The government has announced additional arrests, including that of former Gen. Juan José Zuñiga, raising the total number of detainees to 21.
Iran Presidential Election Results Awaited Amid Rising Tensions
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranians have cast their votes in a snap election to replace the late hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi. The sole reformist candidate in the race has pledged to pursue friendly relations with the West, seeking to energize support in an election overshadowed by apathy. The limited choice between hard-line candidates and lesser-known contenders like Masoud Pezeshkian has drawn criticism, with women and reformists excluded from running. The election occurs amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East following the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Initial results are expected to be announced soon.
Comedian Martin Mull Passes Away at 80
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Comedian and actor Martin Mull has died at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Known for his unique comedic style in the 1970s, Mull gained recognition for his performances in various TV shows and films, including “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” “Fernwood Tonight,” “Mr. Mom,” and “Clue.” His versatile acting career spanned several decades, with acclaimed roles in popular TV series like “Roseanne,” “Arrested Development,” and “Veep.” Mull’s passing has been met with sadness and remembrance of his contributions to the entertainment industry.
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