President Biden’s new plan could grant US citizenship to around 500,000 immigrants
WASHINGTON (AP) — In a move to provide relief to immigrants without legal status in the U.S., President Joe Biden has initiated a plan that could potentially offer citizenship to hundreds of thousands of individuals. This decision comes following Biden’s recent stringent immigration policies at the southern border. The new U.S. policy announced on Tuesday will allow certain spouses of U.S. citizens who lack legal status to apply for permanent residency and eventually citizenship. Senior administration officials estimate that this action could impact up to half a million immigrants. Biden discussed his intentions at the White House, emphasizing that “The Statue of Liberty is not some relic of American history.”
Thousands evacuate due to wildfires in New Mexico, causing damage to over 500 structures; governor declares emergency
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A fast-moving wildfire in southern New Mexico has forced thousands of residents to flee their homes, with over 500 structures already damaged. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency for the affected county on Tuesday, including neighboring tribal lands. National Guard troops have been deployed as residents hurriedly evacuated under mandatory orders, leaving behind their belongings. The governor stated that the fires’ magnitude exceeds local control and necessitates immediate state intervention, with over 500 structures already affected and the entire village of Ruidoso, with a population of 7,000, evacuated.
New York’s highest court declines Trump’s appeal regarding a gag order in his hush money case
NEW YORK (AP) — Despite the state’s top court’s refusal to hear Donald Trump’s appeal on the gag order in his New York hush money case, the former president plans to continue challenging the restriction. This order prevents Trump from commenting on witnesses, jurors, and others involved in the case following his conviction last month. The Court of Appeals decision to uphold the gag order stated that it does not raise significant constitutional concerns. A spokesperson for Trump’s campaign labeled the order as unconstitutional and confirmed that their legal team will persist in opposing it. A ruling from the trial judge regarding a defense request to lift the gag order is expected soon.
Boeing CEO issues apology to families of 737 Max crash victims while defending the company’s safety record
Boeing’s CEO, David Calhoun, appeared before a Senate investigations subcommittee on Tuesday to address concerns about safety at the aircraft company. This appearance follows an incident where a panel blew off a Boeing 737 Max during an Alaska Airlines flight in January. Relatives of individuals who perished in crashes involving 737 Max jetliners in 2018 and 2019 were present to underscore the gravity of the situation. A 204-page report released by the Senate panel included new allegations from a whistleblower regarding potentially faulty parts being used in Max jets.
Russian President Vladimir Putin makes a rare visit to North Korea, a historical ally
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in North Korea, stating that both countries aim to collaborate closely to counter U.S.-imposed sanctions amidst escalating tensions with Washington. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un greeted Putin at Pyongyang’s airport. Prior to his arrival, Putin expressed gratitude for North Korea’s steadfast support of his military actions in Ukraine. This visit occurs amid concerns about an arms agreement where Pyongyang supplies munitions to Moscow for the Ukrainian conflict in exchange for economic aid and technological transfers.
After acts of violence, communities face the decision of whether to demolish or preserve affected buildings
PITTSBURGH (AP) — Following tragic incidents in Parkland, Uvalde, Columbine, Sandy Hook, and other locations, communities are left with a sensitive dilemma: what should be done with the buildings where violence occurred? Throughout the years, different communities have answered this question in various ways. Factors influencing decisions include emotional considerations, financial feasibility, and the potential attraction the site may have for individuals sympathetic to the crime. Ultimately, the resolution is a community-driven process, resulting in diverse outcomes across different places.
A law protecting pregnant workers faces challenges amidst an abortion debate
NEW YORK (AP) — The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, enacted to enhance protections for pregnant employees, has been crucial for many low-wage women seeking accommodations from employers who might have otherwise placed them on unpaid leave. However, a year after the law came into effect, numerous women are still encountering employers unaware of the legislation, misinterpreting its scope, or refusing to comply. The law’s enforcement has been complicated by a legal dispute over whether it covers abortion, coinciding with the moment when its safeguards are starting to make a positive impact.
Understanding heat domes and heat waves causing extreme temperatures in the U.S.
FENTON, Mich. (AP) — The Midwest and Northeast regions are experiencing extreme summer heat this week, with meteorologists referring to heat waves and heat domes. Both terms signify exceptionally high temperatures. Ken Kunkel, a research professor of atmospheric sciences, explains that a heat dome reflects atmospheric conditions, while a heat wave denotes the impact on individuals. The National Weather Service anticipates the most severe heat in the Ohio Valley and Northeast regions.
Colorado nightclub shooter pleads guilty to federal hate crimes for killing 5 individuals
DENVER (AP) — Anderson Lee Aldrich, responsible for the death of five people and injuring 19 others in a Colorado Springs nightclub, admitted to 50 federal hate crimes. Aldrich received 55 life terms as a sentence but declined to offer apologies or address the victims’ families. He is already serving a life sentence for pleading guilty to state charges related to the 2022 shooting. Federal prosecutors detailed how premeditated hatred and bias fueled the attack at Club Q, a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ individuals in the predominantly conservative city. The death penalty was excluded as part of the plea agreement.
A beginner’s guide to celebrating Juneteenth
Many Americans commemorate Juneteenth, recognizing the day in 1865 when the final enslaved individuals in the U.S. were informed of their freedom. Black Americans have historically marked the end of this dark chapter with joy, through parades, festivals, performances, or gatherings. It was the moment when a Union officer arrived in Galveston, Texas, proclaiming their liberation. While it took decades of advocacy for the U.S. government to acknowledge Juneteenth as a federal holiday, there is a current push for individuals to delve beyond the festivities and learn about the historical significance of Juneteenth.
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