Biden acknowledges debate stumbles but vows to defend democracy; Democrats stand by him for now
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden addressed concerns within the Democratic Party over his performance in the debate with ex-President Donald Trump, admitting that he is not the debater he once was. However, at a rally in North Carolina on Friday, Biden emphasized that the election is a choice between defending democracy and Trump’s potential to destroy it. While Democratic lawmakers express some worries, they continue to support Biden. Meanwhile, Trump’s attacks on critics and issues with policy accuracy serve as a reminder of the turmoil during his Republican presidency.
Challenges of replacing Joe Biden on the presidential ticket for Democrats
WASHINGTON (AP) — Replacing President Joe Biden as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 election would be a difficult task unless he decides to step down after a lackluster debate performance against Donald Trump. According to Democratic rules, delegates won by Biden in state primaries are expected to support him at the party’s national convention unless he indicates he is withdrawing from the race. While some within the party are questioning Biden’s candidacy following Thursday’s performance, Vice President Kamala Harris, as his running mate, cannot automatically assume the top spot on the ticket.
Supreme Court ruling impacts Capitol riot defendants and Trump’s obstruction charge
WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed disappointment after a Supreme Court ruling made it more challenging to charge Capitol riot defendants with obstruction, a charge also facing former President Donald Trump. The ruling specifies that the charge must involve evidence of tampering with documents, a requirement that only applies to some Jan. 6 attackers. Garland noted that the decision affects a key federal statute but reassured that the majority of cases related to the Capitol riot would not be affected. Trump celebrated the ruling, considering it a victory for those arrested on Jan. 6.
Divided Supreme Court approves outdoor sleeping bans in homelessness case
WASHINGTON (AP) — A recent Supreme Court ruling allows cities to enforce bans on outdoor sleeping, specifically affecting West Coast regions, to address homelessness. California Governor Gavin Newsome sees the ruling as granting more flexibility to local officials to tackle the crisis. However, an attorney for homeless individuals raised concerns over potential punishment for those with nowhere else to go. This decision has significant implications for the homeless population in the United States, with the high court’s 6-3 ruling overturning a previous judgment that outdoor sleeping bans constituted cruel and unusual punishment.
Significance of Supreme Court ruling on federal regulations
WASHINGTON (AP) — A recent Supreme Court ruling has altered the landscape of federal regulations by rejecting the long-standing Chevron legal doctrine. This decision diminishes the authority of executive branch agencies like the EPA and shifts power to the courts, impacting various aspects of daily life. Conservatives and business groups have long criticized the Chevron doctrine for giving excessive power to the executive branch and have welcomed this ruling as a step towards limiting that power.
Update on US-built pier for aid to Gaza and distribution challenges
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military-built pier intended for aid distribution to Palestinians in Gaza has been removed due to rough seas, creating uncertainty about its future role. Humanitarian aid groups halted distribution following security concerns on June 9 and have yet to resume activities. U.S. officials suggest that the pier may remain out of commission until aid agencies agree to resume aid distribution. Meanwhile, supplies from Cyprus are accumulating on the Gaza shore, raising logistical challenges. The journey of the pier has been marred by weather-related damages and security issues.
Alec Baldwin’s case headed for trial as judge denies dismissal request
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The involuntary manslaughter case against Alec Baldwin will proceed to trial in July following a judge’s rejection of a dismissal request. Defense attorneys argued that key evidence was compromised during FBI forensic testing, impacting the case. Nonetheless, the judge sided with prosecutors, clearing the way for the trial to move forward. The case stems from a fatal shooting incident involving Baldwin and the damaged gun that underwent forensic examination.
Families dispute involvement in Bolivia failed coup as more arrests are made
LA PAZ, Bolivia (AP) — Families of individuals detained on accusations of partaking in a failed coup in Bolivia express confusion and disbelief over the allegations. Many claim their loved ones were misled into participating in what they believed to be a military exercise. The government announced additional arrests, including former General Juan José Zuñiga, bringing the total to 21 detainees connected to the failed coup.
Closure of polls in Iran presidential election amid rising Mideast 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 race features a reformist candidate pledging to foster “friendly relations” with the West, aiming to energize supporters in a politically charged environment. Women and advocates for radical change were barred from running, aligning with the longstanding electoral practices of the Islamic Revolution. Initial election results were anticipated following heightened tensions in the Middle East due to conflicts like the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
Comedic actor Martin Mull passes away at 80
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Martin Mull, the renowned comedian and actor, has died at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Mull gained fame for his witty comic style and performances in the entertainment industry. His notable roles include appearances in TV series like “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” “Fernwood Tonight,” and films such as “Mr. Mom” and “Clue.” Mull’s versatile career spanned multiple decades, earning him critical acclaim and accolades.
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