Biden acknowledges debate missteps but vows to protect democracy. Democrats stand by him for now
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is addressing Democratic concerns about his performance in the debate with former President Donald Trump. At a rally in North Carolina, Biden admitted that he is not the debater he once was, but emphasized the importance of the upcoming election. He stated, “The choice is clear in this election: Donald Trump threatens our democracy, and I will defend it.” While Democratic lawmakers express concerns, they are currently supporting Biden. Meanwhile, Trump continues to attack critics and spread falsehoods, showcasing the chaos of his presidency.
Iran to hold a runoff election between reformist Pezeshkian and hard-liner Jalili
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Following the initial vote where no candidate secured a clear win, Iran will proceed with a runoff presidential election to replace the late hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi. The upcoming election will feature reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian against hard-liner Saeed Jalili, a former nuclear negotiator. Election spokesman Mohsen Eslami announced that Pezeshkian received 10.4 million votes while Jalili received 9.4 million out of 24.5 million cast. Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf garnered 3.3 million votes, while Shiite cleric Mostafa Pourmohammadi had over 206,000 votes.
Review of the US-built pier aiding Gaza’s aid distribution
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military-built pier near Gaza has been removed due to rough seas, raising uncertainty about its future role in distributing aid to Palestinians. Humanitarian aid groups have halted distribution of supplies received by sea since June 9 due to security concerns, and its reinstatement may depend on aid agencies reaching an agreement on resuming distribution. Meanwhile, provisions from Cyprus are accumulating onshore, and the secure area in Gaza is nearing full capacity. Weather and security challenges have plagued the pier’s operations.
Russia intensifies offensive in Ukraine as the West seeks to counter the advance
Slowly but steadily advancing, Russian troops are putting pressure on Ukraine’s defenses, prompting the West to seek new strategies and weapons to support Kyiv. President Vladimir Putin issues new political demands and threats against Ukraine and the West, raising concerns about a potential escalation. The conflict, now in its third year, poses a risk of direct confrontation between Russia and NATO.
US strengthens defense partnerships with Asian allies amid rising threats
GIMHAE AIR BASE, South Korea (AP) — The recently concluded Freedom Edge exercise brought together naval assets from Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. in multidomain maneuvers for the first time. This exercise is crucial as Washington aims to bolster partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region to counter increasing assertiveness from China and North Korea. South Korea and Japan, having sophisticated militaries, have the capacity to integrate operations with the U.S.
Behind-the-scenes negotiations lead to Julian Assange’s unexpected plea deal
WASHINGTON (AP) — WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange’s abrupt guilty plea was the result of negotiations spanning a year and a half, with recent acceleration. The Justice Department sought Assange’s admission of guilt to a felony, while Assange aimed to avoid setting foot in the U.S. A compromise was reached for Assange to plead guilty in federal court in Saipan in the Pacific, granting him freedom.
Tropical Storm Beryl forms in the Atlantic, heading towards the Caribbean
MIAMI (AP) — Tropical Storm Beryl has developed in the Atlantic Ocean and is projected to strengthen as it moves into the Caribbean Sea early next week. Beryl is the second named storm in what is expected to be an active hurricane season. The storm Alberto hit northeast Mexico earlier this month, causing four fatalities. Beryl is currently in the open Atlantic, moving westward with top winds of 40 mph.
Governor Doug Burgum’s evolving stance on LGBTQ measures
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum’s shift regarding LGBTQ issues has been noticeable as he prepares for a presidential bid in 2023. Initially focused on economic priorities, Burgum vetoed a 2021 bill targeting transgender athletes but later signed bills imposing restrictions on transgender individuals. He is now being considered as a potential running mate for Donald Trump, sparking criticism for his changed focus as he entered the national spotlight.
Remembering the legacy of Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda, known as the “Baby Bull,” passed away at the age of 86. A prominent figure among Puerto Rican baseball players, Cepeda’s death was announced by the San Francisco Giants during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Cepeda remained active in Giants’ games until experiencing health challenges in 2018 after a cardiac event earlier that year.
Vincent Chin’s tragic death inspires decades of Asian American activism
The 1982 killing of Vincent Chin, a Chinese American who received no jail time for his murder, ignited a wave of activism uniting Asian Americans across communities. Chin’s story continues to resonate, with law students reenacting his trial, Hollywood adapting his case into a film, and nationwide vigils held in his memory. While progress has been made in advancing Asian American equality, challenges such as the need for inclusive education and combatting stereotypes persist.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
