Cohen’s credibility, campaigning at court and other takeaways from Trump trial’s closing arguments
NEW YORK (AP) — Lawyers in Donald Trump’s hush money trial have debated evidence and witnesses as they presented their closing arguments to jurors who will determine whether the former president will be convicted of a crime. Jurors, who are New Yorkers, could start deliberating as soon as Wednesday on whether Trump falsified business records to conceal hush money payments made during the 2016 presidential campaign to a porn actor who alleged she had a sexual encounter with him. Trump denies the allegations and maintains his innocence.
To recuse or refuse? A look at Supreme Court justices’ decisions on whether to step aside in cases
WASHINGTON (AP) — Justice Samuel Alito, in declining to recuse himself from two significant Supreme Court cases, has shed light on the secretive decision-making process of justices on matters of recusal. Facing calls from Democrats to abstain from cases involving former President Donald Trump and individuals linked to the January 6th Capitol riot, Alito explained that his wife had flown flags resembling those carried by rioters at his residences. Despite this explanation, Democratic critics remain unsatisfied.
Israel says it’s taken control of a crucial area of Gaza’s border with Egypt filled with smuggling tunnels
JERUSALEM (AP) — The Israeli military has announced its control over a vital strip of land along Gaza’s border with Egypt known for housing smuggling tunnels that have supported Hamas. However, this move could strain relations with Egypt, which has cautioned against increased Israeli military presence in the region. Simultaneously, Israel has intensified its operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, with an official warning that the conflict may persist until the end of the year.
A nurse honored for compassion is terminated after referencing Gaza ‘genocide’ in speech
NEW YORK (AP) — A nurse was fired by a New York City hospital after describing Israel’s actions in Gaza as a “genocide” during an award acceptance speech. The nurse, Hesen Jabr, was recognized for her care of bereaved mothers and connected her work to the suffering of mothers in Gaza. Following her comments, Jabr was dismissed from her position due to objections from some colleagues.
When South Africa’s election results are expected and why the president will be chosen later
CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — South Africa recently held a national election that may be one of the most fiercely contested in 30 years. The ruling African National Congress faces a significant challenge in retaining its majority. While voters choose parties in the election, lawmakers subsequently elect the president. The ANC is anticipated to remain the largest party, but losing its majority could complicate presidential selection.
Harvey Weinstein may face new charges as more accusers come forward, New York prosecutors say
NEW YORK (AP) — Manhattan prosecutors are reviewing new allegations of sexual misconduct against Harvey Weinstein. Prosecutors are assessing claims made by additional individuals, some of whom may witness against Weinstein in his forthcoming retrial on rape charges. Weinstein maintains his innocence amidst the new accusations.
On spelling’s saddest day, hyped National Spelling Bee competitors see their hopes dashed
OXON HILL, Md. (AP) — The Scripps National Spelling Bee witnessed intense competition during the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds, leading to the elimination of a majority of participants. Several experienced spellers fell short of expectations as more luck and skill were required to progress to the finals.
Violence clouds the last day of campaigning for Mexico’s election
MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico’s final campaign day before the nationwide elections was marred by attacks on candidates. Incidents of violence included the shooting of a mayoral candidate in Jalisco and the assassination of a candidate in Morelos state, raising concerns over the safety of politicians in the country.
New Louisiana law will criminalize approaching police under certain circumstances
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry signed a legislation criminalizing the act of approaching within 25 feet of a police officer engaged in law enforcement duties after being instructed to stay back. Supporters argue the law enhances officer safety, while opponents fear it could impede the public’s ability to document police activities through filming.
Josh Gibson becomes MLB career and season batting leader as Negro Leagues statistics incorporated
NEW YORK (AP) — Following a three-year research project integrating records from the Negro Leagues, Josh Gibson surpassed Ty Cobb to become Major League Baseball’s career leader with a .372 batting average. Gibson also set a new season standard with a .466 average for the 1943 Homestead Grays, highlighting the achievements of players from the Negro Leagues.
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