Democrats want Biden to pardon felons in jail due to laws he supported
House Democrats are calling on President Joe Biden to grant more pardons and commutations before his administration ends Monday, Jan. 20. The lawmakers said the president should focus on nonviolent drug offenders, women who committed crimes against abusers and those with sentencing disparities for similar crimes, like powder and crack cocaine offenses.
“Every single pardon, every single commutation, every single life matters. So President Biden must keep going,” Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., said.
The lawmakers said President Biden should thoroughly review the more than 10,000 pending commutation applications. They contend there are many incarcerated individuals who do not pose a threat to society.
“Mass incarceration continues to be a stain upon the soul of our country, ravaging our communities, destabilizing families and exacerbating generational trauma,” Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Pa., said.
There are three laws in particular that advocates blame for what they describe as harsh sentences for federal crimes — the 1984 crime bill, 1986 Anti-Drug Abuse Act, and the 1994 crime bill. President Biden either co-sponsored or voted in favor of each one as a senator.
“The current president was a part of creating the problem of mass incarceration. And like, we’re not even blaming him, because that time there was a demand,” DeMareo Cooper, with the Center for Popular Democracy, said. “But like all of us, we can learn from our mistakes.”
Before he became president, Biden expressed regret for writing and supporting the legislation. During an event in 2019 he referred to the disparity between crack cocaine and powder cocaine in federal sentencing.
“It was a big mistake that was made,” Biden said. “We were told by the experts that ‘crack, you never go back,’ that the two were somehow fundamentally different. It’s not. But it’s trapped an entire generation.”
“Clemency is paramount in criminal justice. This tool, which is granted to the president, equips him with the ability to bring about fairness to Black lives that have been affected by bad policy,” Patrice Willoughby, with the NAACP, said.
Clemency advocates also point to the many inmates who give back to society. There are more than 1,000 California inmates fighting wildfires in the LA region. They are paid up to $10 per day plus $1 per hour on duty.
“Risking their lives to save lives, only to return to a jail cell at night,” Pressley said. “Now I think that makes the case, if we need it anymore, of people who should not be incarcerated, who should be reunited with their families.”
At least 95 killed in 7.1 magnitude earthquake in Tibet
A powerful earthquake proves deadly in East Asia on Tuesday morning. And winter weather pounds the United States from the Great Plains to the East Coast. These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025.
7.1 magnitude earthquake kills at least 95 in Tibet
At least 95 people are dead Tuesday after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake rocked Tibet, China, according to Chinese state media. The quake occurred just after 9 a.m. on Jan. 7 near Shigatse, one of Tibet’s holiest cities.
The quake reached a depth of 6.2 miles, damaging buildings and sending people running to the streets in neighboring Nepal and India. Cities as far away as Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city about 240 miles away, felt tremors.
The U.S. Geological Survey measured the quake at a magnitude of 7.1, while the China Earthquake Networks Center reported it at 6.8. Multiple aftershocks followed the initial quake.
In addition to the dozens of lives lost, local authorities said the disaster injured at least 130 people.
First winter storm of 2025 leaves at least 4 dead across multiple states
The system moved east on Monday, Jan. 6, from the Great Plains to the East Coast. It brought snow, blizzard conditions and ice. The storm hit cities like Kansas City and Cincinnati the hardest.
Authorities said a public works employee in Missouri suffered a fatal injury while working to remove snow. Two people in Wichita, Kansas, died in a weather-related crash, and one person in Houston, Texas, most likely died as a result of the cold weather, according to local authorities.
The storm knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of homes across at least a half-dozen states.
While the heavy snow ended, the danger remained. Forecasters said the winter system is drawing cold air behind it, meaning states across the entire U.S. will experience a cold front.
Pentagon transfers 11 Yemeni detainees from Guantánamo Bay to Oman
The Pentagon said the U.S. transferred 11 Yemeni detainees to Oman, which agreed to help re-settle them. Two of the detainees are former bodyguards for Osama Bin Laden and were being held at Guantánamo Bay in Cuba.
None of the 11 detainees released were charged with crimes.
The move comes amid steps to reduce the population at the controversial U.S. military facility. Only 15 detainees remain at Guantánamo Bay’s detention facility, which the U.S. set up as the war on terror began after Sept. 11, 2001.
Of the 15 current detainees, only three are eligible for transfer. Three more are eligible for a periodic review, seven are involved in the military commissions process and two detainees were convicted and sentenced by military commissions.
In recent weeks, the Biden administration transferred four other detainees from Guantánamo, including one brought to the detention facility the day it opened in 2002. That person was never formally charged.
The move follows a recent ruling by a military judge that plea agreements with alleged 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed and two other accused terrorists are valid and binding. Those deals take the death penalty off the table for the three men, who remain at Guantánamo Bay.
Biden attends memorial service for New Orleans terror attack victims
President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden attended a memorial service Monday, Jan. 6, for the 14 victims killed in the New Year’s Day truck attack in New Orleans. The interfaith prayer service was held at the famous St. Louis Cathedral in the city’s French Quarter, less than a mile away from the scene of the Bourbon Street terror attack.
Jill and I traveled to New Orleans to stand with a community defined by strength and resilience.
To grieve. To pray. And let them know that America stands with them, and mourns with them. pic.twitter.com/26Phe203WF
The president spoke at the service, reassuring the people of New Orleans they are not alone and highlighting the city’s enduring strength and resilience amid tragedy. He referred to past devastation experienced by the city, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
“If there’s one thing we know: New Orleans defines strength and resilience,” the president said. “You define it, whether it’s in the form of this attack, from this attack, or hurricanes or super storms. This city’s people get back up.”
The president and first lady also visited the Bourbon Street memorial, where they placed flowers and prayed for the victims.
While in New Orleans, the Bidens met privately with grieving families, survivors and first responders.
Though both cases were dismissed, the special counsel is required to provide a report to Garland, who can then decide whether to make it public.
According to the letter and a legal filing, Trump’s lawyers and two former co-defendants in the documents case viewed a two-volume draft copy of the report over the weekend. They called the report “one-sided” and “slanted.”
In the letter, Trump’s lawyer requested Garland fire Smith, who is set to resign before Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, or let the decision on the release of the report be handled by Trump’s incoming attorney general, Pam Bondi.
The lawyers for Trump’s two former co-defendants in the documents case also asked the judge who dismissed the case to halt the report’s release, citing her ruling that Smith’s appointment was unconstitutional.
While it is not clear when the report will be released, the lawyers have asked the judge for a hearing on their request by Friday, Jan. 10, believing the release is “imminent.”
‘Shark Tank’ star Kevin O’Leary announces bid to buy TikTok
With millions of social media users counting down TikTok’s days in the U.S., one businessman is looking to prevent the ban from taking effect. “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary issued a press release Monday announcing his interest in purchasing TikTok.
O’Leary — known by “Shark Tank” fans as “Mr. Wonderful” — said he is partnering with former Dodgers owner Frank McCourt on the bid.
Speaking to Fox Business, O’Leary said he would need Trump’s help to seal the deal. O’Leary said he’s “protecting the privacy of 170 million American users” and “empowering creators and small businesses.”
TikTok faces a federal ban on Jan. 19 unless its China-based parent company, ByteDance, sells. The Biden administration and other federal lawmakers believe TikTok threatens national security, accusing the Chinese government of using it to spy on Americans. Lawmakers fear the app is being used to weaponize and influence content Americans view.
On Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments from ByteDance on why it should prevent the ban.
President Biden to visit New Orleans as city recovers from attack
President Joe Biden plans to visit New Orleans during the week of Jan. 6 as the city begins to recover from the bloody attack that shook its streets on New Year’s Day. Bourbon Street, the site of the attack, was reopened to tourists Thursday, Jan. 2, with the area cleared in an effort to restore a sense of normalcy during the city’s typically busy tourist season.
In the wake of the attack, Biden emphasized the resilience of New Orleans, sending a message to both the nation and terrorist groups.
“I know while this person committed a terrible assault on the city, the spirit of our New Orleans will never, never, never be defeated,” Biden said during a televised update on the incident. “It always will shine forth. We’ve seen that time and time again throughout its history, and I know we’ll see it again in the days and weeks ahead.”
The attack occurred early on New Year’s Day when Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove his truck into the French Quarter, killing 14 people and injuring dozens more. The White House has confirmed that Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will meet with local officials and those affected by the tragedy during their visit.
The visit, coming on Monday, Jan. 6, visit coincides with Twelfth Night, a symbolic day in New Orleans that marks the beginning of the Mardi Gras season.
Tourism remains a cornerstone of the local economy, with 18 million visitors in 2023 bringing in more than $9 billion. Officials expect these numbers to grow, especially with the Super Bowl in February and Jazz Fest later in the spring.
In light of the heightened security risks, additional safety measures are being implemented for large public gatherings. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry, R, reassured the public. He said his administration is focused on public safety.
“We intend to be transparent in assessing any defects in the system so we can address them,” Landry said.
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security continue to investigate the attack, working to determine the motive behind the driver’s actions.
Trump’s trip to Notre Dame ceremony gives leaders chance to build closer ties
The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is reopening the weekend of Dec. 7. And while the ceremonies will be an emotional moment for the French public, the events will also be a major opportunity for world leaders to meet.
With President-elect Donald Trump being among the roughly 50 world leaders to attend, it’s a chance for other countries to try to curry favor. It’s his first trip abroad as president-elect. Trump will attend events in Paris this weekend, as will First Lady Jill Biden.
Domestically, Macron is facing trouble after the resignation of prime minister Michel Barnier and collapse of the parliamentary government. However, Macron may be able to strengthen ties between France and President-elect Trump. The two overlapped as leaders during Trump’s first term.
Trump has met or spoken with a number of leaders since winning last month’s election, including U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau came to the president-elect’s residence at Mar-a-Lago for talks last weekend. Trump has warned he will implement tariffs on many goods from Canada because of concerns about U.S. border security.
The first ceremony occurs Saturday afternoon. The archbishop of Paris will start things off by knocking on the doors to reopen them. The ceremony will include prayers, songs and remarks by President Macron to a crowd including the dozens of world leaders who accepted his invitation.
President-elect Trump building his team as meeting with Biden nears
President-elect Trump is already filling positions in his administration as he prepares for a White House meeting with President Biden. And the search continues for more than a dozen monkeys that escaped from a South Carolina research facility last week. These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Monday, Nov. 11, 2024.
President-elect Trump building his team as meeting with Biden nears
President-elect Donald Trump continues to work to fill appointments in his administration as President Joe Biden looks to engage in a peaceful transfer of power. It was announced over the weekend Biden and Trump will meet at the White House later this week.
Trump has spoken to numerous world leaders since election night. A source told Reuters the president-elect recently had a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which Reuters has since reported the Kremlin denies. The source said Trump told Putin to not escalate the war with Ukraine.
It was not clear if that was the first time the president-elect golfed at his club since an assassination attempt on his life in September.
Russia, Ukraine launch record numbers of drones in overnight attacks
As President-elect Trump reportedly spoke with both Russia and Ukraine’s president, the war between the two countries rages on. A record number of drone strikes were launched over the weekend.
Ukraine launched its largest attack on Moscow since the start of the war, striking Russia’s capital late Saturday night, Nov. 9, into early Sunday, Nov. 10. Russia said a total of 34 drones were launched in Moscow’s direction, but all of them were shot down.
Kryvyi Rih. An ordinary five-story apartment building hit by Russian terrorists with a missile. The first to fifth floors of one of the stairwells were destroyed. So far, seven people have been reported injured, including two children. Emergency rescue operations are underway,… pic.twitter.com/usuWFCrehZ
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 11, 2024
That attack came after Ukraine said Russia launched a total of 145 drones Saturday night, the most ever in a single night-time attack during the war. Ukraine said its defenses shot down more than 60 of the drones, while others left Ukrainian airspace.
Israeli strikes kill dozens in Lebanon and northern Gaza
Lebanon’s health ministry said the offensive there left at least 23 people dead, including seven children, in a village north of Beirut away from areas of the country where the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah has a major presence. Israel did not issue an evacuation warning before the strike.
Israel’s military said the strike hit a Hezbollah site used to store weapons and the strike is under review.
The strike in northern Gaza was on a home that was sheltering displaced people, according to a hospital official in the territory. At least 17 were killed. The Israeli military said it targeted a site where militants were operating.
The strikes came less than 24 hours hours after Qatar announced it suspended its role as mediator for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza because neither side is willing to come to an agreement.
1 dead, 16 injured in shooting at Tuskegee University in Alabama
They said Myrick was found leaving the scene of the shooting, which occurred during a homecoming week celebration at the school. Investigators said he was found with a handgun with a machine gun conversion device.
25 of 43 escaped monkeys in South Carolina recovered
More than half the monkeys that escaped a South Carolina research facility have been caught.
Last Wednesday, Nov. 6, 43 rhesus macaque monkeys escaped from Alpha Genesis, a medical lab that uses the animals for clinical drug trials, in Yemassee. That’s about 60 miles west of Charleston.
43 monkeys that were being used for vaccine development escaped from a lab in Yemassee, South Carolina on Wednesday and are currently on the loose. This video, taken near the facility on Wednesday afternoon, appears to show shadowy figures moving through the woods. CBS News could… pic.twitter.com/ds1tOOpTZi
Officials said the remaining monkeys do not seem to have gone far. They say a “significant number” of them are still near the facility eating food left out for them and interacting with other monkeys still inside the facility. Trappers have not yet been able to corral them.
Biden, Harris to appear together for first time since election for Veterans Day ceremony
The White House said the two will participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The president will then deliver remarks at the cemetery’s amphitheater.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff will also be in attendance.
Last week, President Biden issued a proclamation for Veterans Day, saying in part, “Each one of our nation’s veterans is a link in a chain of honor that stretches back to our founding days — bound by a sacred oath to support and defend the United States of America. Throughout history, whenever and wherever the forces of darkness have sought to extinguish the flame of freedom, America’s veterans have been fighting to keep it burning bright.”
Hunter Biden’s lawyer wants an ‘Alford plea.’ What does it mean?
Hunter Biden’s criminal tax case took an unexpected turn on Thursday, Sept. 5. Biden’s lawyer, Abbe Lowell, told a federal judge, right before jury selection, his defendant wished to change his plea to an “Alford plea.”
An Alford plea allows a defendant to maintain innocence but acknowledges that prosecutors have enough evidence to convict them. If the judge were to accept the plea, Biden would be convicted of the crimes he is charged with in the case.
Lowell said to the judge that there is “no agreement” with prosecutors but one is not required under an Alford plea.
However, prosecutors were reportedly surprised, arguing that they would accept nothing less than a guilty plea.
“This is the first time we’ve heard of this,” prosecutors added.
Biden previously pleaded not guilty to three felony counts and six misdemeanors connected to at least $1.4 million in unpaid federal taxes from 2016-2019. Prosecutors alleged that Biden purposely avoided paying taxes by rigging his company’s own payroll system.
Although Biden eventually paid all his back-taxes and penalties with the help of a third-party, the judge would not allow the defense to use that evidence at trial.
Thursday’s court appearance comes months after Biden was convicted on felony charges connected to the purchase of a firearm in 2018 while he was allegedly addicted to drugs. His sentencing for that conviction is set for Nov. 13.
President Joe Biden has yet to comment on the new developments in the case.
Biden highlights his legacy, passes torch to Harris in DNC address
In a speech lasting nearly an hour on the first night of the Democratic National Convention (DNC), President Joe Biden defended his record as he passed the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris. And protesters took to the streets outside the DNC calling for an end to the war in Gaza. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Aug. 20, 2024.
Biden highlights his legacy, passes torch to Harris in DNC address
Former President Barack Obama is slated to be among the speakers on night two of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Tuesday, Aug. 20, as the party gears up for Vice President Kamala Harris to officially accept the nomination for president.
Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, were in the building Monday night, Aug. 19 for the first night. The vice president gave a surprise speech on the stage thanking President Joe Biden for his “historic leadership.” She then spoke of unity within the party.
“People from every corner of our country and every walk of life are here, united by our shared vision for the future of our country, and this November, we will come together and declare with one voice, as one people, we are moving forward,” Harris said.
And while the convention is largely focused on Harris, the first night was centered on President Biden as the party paid tribute to his decades-long political career. The crowd chanted in support of the president, giving him a 4-minute standing ovation before his speech. Biden took a moment to thank his supporters before reiterating his endorsement of Harris.
“I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my career, but I gave my best to you,” the president said. “For 50 years, like many of you, I have given my heart and soul to our nation … It’s been the honor of my lifetime to serve as your president.”
First lady Dr. Jill Biden and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also spoke on the first night of the DNC.
“I wish my mother and Kamala’s mother could see us,” Clinton said. “This is our time, America. This is when we stand up. This is when we break through!”
Harris and Walz will both be back on the campaign trail in Wisconsin Tuesday, Aug. 20. That’s also where the Republican vice presidential pick Ohio Sen. JD Vance will be as former President Donald Trump continues his blitz across battleground states. Trump was in Pennsylvania Monday, Aug. 19, and will hold a rally in Michigan Tuesday afternoon.
Protesters attempt to breach barricade at DNC
While the Democratic Party rallied in unison inside Chicago’s United Center, it was a different story on the outside. Protesters broke through a fence set up by police near the site of the DNC as thousands took to the streets to protest the war in Gaza.
As the larger group marched, a few dozen broke away and tore down pieces of the security fence. They chanted “end the occupation now” and then “the whole world is watching!” just as anti-Vietnam war protesters did during the 1968 convention in Chicago when police clashed with protesters on live television.
On Monday, Aug. 19, police in riot gear formed a wall and arrested at least four people. Large protests are expected to continue over the next several days outside the DNC.
U.S. government says Iran was behind Trump campaign hack
A joint statement on Monday from the FBI, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said the breach was part of Iran’s plans to interfere with the 2024 presidential election.
The FBI briefed former President Trump on their preliminary findings after news organizations reported receiving documents believed to have come from an account belonging to a senior Trump campaign official. Those turned out to be from a hacker.
Vice President Harris’ campaign said hackers were unsuccessful in their attempts against the Biden-Harris campaign.
Israel says bodies of 6 hostages retrieved in overnight operation
Israel said it has recovered the bodies of six hostages taken by Hamas during the Oct. 7 terror attack. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel’s security agency said in a joint statement Tuesday the bodies were retrieved during an overnight military operation in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said “hearts are aching over the terrible loss” and thanked those involved in the recovery efforts.
This comes as Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced Israel has accepted a proposal to bridge differences that are preventing a temporary cease-fire and the release of an unknown number of hostages. Now the U.S. and other world leaders helping to mediate the negotiation talks are urging Hamas to accept the proposal.
On Tuesday, Aug. 20, Blinken will be leaving Israel and traveling to Egypt and Qatar, where Hamas has a political office.
It’s unclear if Hamas will sign off on the deal, as one of their stipulations has been a permanent truce, not just a temporary pause in fighting.
The high-stakes talks come as fears rise that the war could escalate into a bigger regional conflict, potentially by an attack on Israel led by Iran and its proxy groups.
Santos pleads guilty to federal charges, faces 6 years in prison
Former New York Congressman George Santos has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. He’s agreed to pay more than $370,000 in restitution and could spend at least six years in prison for stealing from donors and using campaign contributions to pay for personal expenses.
The plea comes as his federal fraud case — which led to the Republican’s expulsion from Congress — was just weeks away from going to trial.
He’s now set to be sentenced in February.
Former head of Warner Music submits $4.3B bid for Paramount
Like any good TV show or movie, the saga of the sale of Paramount has a last-second plot twist. According to reports, billionaire media mogul Edgar Bronfman Jr., the former head of Warner Music Group, has submitted an offer of $4.3 billion to take control of Paramount Global — the parent company of CBS, MTV and Paramount Pictures.
Last month, Skydance Media entered a deal to purchase the conglomerate for $8 billion, but that deal came with a catch: a 45-day window where Paramount could field other offers. Bronfman entered the fray just as that deadline was about to expire on Wednesday, Aug. 21.
Now Paramount has the option to extend that period. If it does, that would be a sign Paramount is seriously thinking about Bronfman’s offer.
Biden’s future as candidate being discussed after debate performance
The fallout from the June 27 presidential debate continued to make headlines over the weekend, with President Joe Biden’s future as a candidate being questioned following his debate performance. NBC News released a report on Saturday, June 29, that said the Biden family would discuss the future of the president’s reelection campaign during a previously planned weekend family gathering at Camp David.
Biden’s campaign said the report was false, calling it “100% media-fabricated” and said Biden will be the Democratic nominee.
Biden advisers told CNN the president’s family at Camp David, including the first lady and son Hunter, encouraged him to stay in the race.
Those advisers said there were talks about whether the aides who helped prepare the president should be fired, after some Democrats blamed Biden’s performance on his prep for the event.
Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., said on CNN’s State of the Union it was a case of “preparation overload” and the president should continue to run his record.
Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., meanwhile, has admitted there are ongoing serious conversations in the party following the debate.
“I mean, this is what a real political party looks like, and this is what a real political party does,” Raskin told ABC News. “Obviously, there was a big problem with Joe Biden’s debate performance, and there is also just a tremendous reservoir of love for Joe Biden in our party. So, this makes it a difficult situation for everybody, but there are very honest and serious and rigorous conversations happening at every level of our party, because it is a political party, and we have differences in point of view.”
Raskin said whatever Biden decides, the Democratic party will be unified.
Biden himself has spoken out about his debate performance. At a rally in North Carolina on Friday, June 28, he said he doesn’t debate as well as he used to but knows how to get the job done.
“I understand the concern after the debate,” Biden told supporters during a campaign fundraiser in New Jersey. “I get it. I didn’t have a great night, but I’m going to be fighting harder.”
Supreme Court to issue ruling on Trump’s immunity claim
The Supreme Court will deliver its long-awaited ruling on whether former President Donald Trump is immune from being prosecuted. And after his debate performance last week, President Joe Biden’s future as the Democratic nominee remains a topic of discussion within his party. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Monday, July 1, 2024.
Supreme Court to issue ruling on Trump’s immunity claim
There will be a ruling on whether former President Donald Trump has immunity from criminal prosecution today, Monday, July 1. That is one of the opinions left as the Supreme Court wraps up its current term, extending its rulings into July.
Chief Justice John Roberts announced on Friday, June 28, the highly anticipated decision concerning the former president and all remaining opinions will come down starting at 10 a.m. EST Monday.
The court will decide if the former president is immune from being prosecuted in the federal election interference case where he’s accused of conspiring to obstruct the 2020 presidential election. Trump has argued he should be immune from any official acts taken while in office, saying future presidents would not be able to function without immunity.
Without Presidential Immunity, a President of the United States literally could not function! It should be a STRONG IMMUNITY, where proper decisions can be made, where our Country can be POWERFUL and THRIVE, and where Opponents cannot hold up and extort a Future President for… pic.twitter.com/QurlpNbBoK
— Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) June 30, 2024
A federal appeals court rejected Trump’s claim in February. The Supreme Court agreed to hear the case a few weeks later. During arguments in April, the court focused in on deciding which acts are private and which are considered part of the role of president.
In a decision on Friday, the Supreme Court limited obstruction charges that have been brought against Jan. 6 rioters. Former President Trump is also charged with obstruction in this federal case.
The justices will also issue a ruling on when it comes to states passing laws to regulate how social media companies moderate content on their platforms.
Biden’s future as candidate being discussed after debate performance
The fallout from last week’s presidential debate continued to make headlines over the weekend, with President Joe Biden’s future as a candidate being questioned following his debate performance. NBC News released a report on Saturday, June 29, that said the Biden family would discuss the future of the president’s reelection campaign during a previously planned weekend family gathering at Camp David.
Biden’s campaign said the report was false, calling it “100% media-fabricated” and said Biden will be the Democratic nominee.
Biden advisers told CNN the president’s family at Camp David, including the first lady and son Hunter, encouraged him to stay in the race.
Those advisers said there were talks about whether the aides who helped prepare the president should be fired, after some Democrats blamed Biden’s performance on his prep for the event.
Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., said it was a case of “preparation overload” and the president should continue to run on his record.
Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., meanwhile, has admitted there are ongoing serious conversations in the party following the debate.
“I mean, this is what a real political party looks like, and this is what a real political party does,” Raskin told ABC News. “Obviously, there was a big problem with Joe Biden’s debate performance, and there is also just a tremendous reservoir of love for Joe Biden in our party. So, this makes it a difficult situation for everybody, but there are very honest and serious and rigorous conversations happening at every level of our party, because it is a political party, and we have differences in point of view.”
Raskin said whatever Biden decides, the Democratic party will be unified.
Biden himself has spoken out about his debate performance. At a rally in North Carolina on Friday, June 28, he said he doesn’t debate as well as he used to but knows how to get the job done. And then he told supporters during a campaign fundraiser in New Jersey over the weekend, “I understand the concern after the debate. I get it. I didn’t have a great night, but I’m going to be fighting harder.”
DOJ offers Boeing plea deal in connection with 2 deadly plane crashes
The Justice Department is giving Boeing the chance to avoid trial in connection with two 737 Max crashes that left a total of nearly 350 people dead. The DOJ has offered Boeing a deal that would include three years’ probation, a fine and a corporate monitor to ensure safety compliance in exchange for a guilty plea to criminal charges.
Families of the victims of two fatal Boeing crashes are tonight furious at the prospect of a "plea deal", between the U-S Justice Department and the aviation giant. #9Newspic.twitter.com/yYG6cPTdcM
The potential plea deal comes after repeated safety failures at Boeing that have resulted in multiple federal investigations. The DOJ said in June the safety failures were a breach of the terms of a 2021 agreement in which the company avoided criminal charges for two fatal crashes.
If Boeing agrees to plead guilty, a judge will have to sign off on the deal.
The lawyer who represents 15 families of those killed in the plane crashes called this a “sweetheart deal” and said they will object to it.
U.S. military bases in Europe on alert amid possible terror threat
— Stars and Stripes (@starsandstripes) July 1, 2024
According to the Army, Charlie “applies when an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating some form of terrorist action or targeting against personnel or facilities is likely.”
One U.S. Official told Fox News that intelligence points to an attack on U.S. bases over the next week or so.
Hurricane Beryl barrels through Caribbean
Hurricane Beryl is now a major Category 3 storm after it picked up power and speed on Sunday, June 30, over the Caribbean. It was previously a Category 4 hurricane, becoming the earlier Cat 4 in the Atlantic on record.
The storm is expected to make landfall in the Windward Islands Monday, July 1, morning. The hurricane’s eye is forecast to track just south of Barbados with 130 mph winds, bringing up to six inches of rain.
And while it’s too soon to know for sure — Beryl, or remnants of the storm, could reach southern Texas by the weekend, bringing heavy rain to the area.
Biles returned to competitive gymnastics last year after withdrawing from the team final and individual all-around at the 2020 Olympics. Biles said she was suffering from the “twisties” — a mental block that causes gymnasts to lose their body position — and taking an extended break to prioritize her mental health.
At 27 years old, the four-time Olympic gold medalist who’s also the most decorated gymnast ever, will be the oldest female American gymnast to compete at the Olympics in 72 years.
Hunter Biden Convicted on all 3 federal gun charges
Hunter Biden has been convicted on all charges in his federal gun trial and what that could mean for his future. And a federal judge says a Florida law blocking treatment for trans youth is “unconstitutional.” These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Wednesday, June 12.
Hunter Biden convicted on all 3 federal gun charges
Hunter Biden is facing up to 25 years in prison after a jury found him guilty on all counts in his federal gun trial on Tuesday, June 11. This marks the first time in history a sitting president’s child has been found guilty of criminal charges.
Hunter Biden has been convicted on two counts of lying about his drug use on paperwork to buy a gun and one count for unlawfully possessing a gun while using drugs. He released a statement after saying he’s “disappointed by the outcome.”
It took the jury less than three hours to come to its decision.
Once the judge in the case confirms the verdict, Hunter Biden faces up to 25 years in prison and $750,000 in fines. No sentencing date has been set yet.
“Ultimately this case was not just about addiction, a disease that haunts families across the United States, including Hunter Biden’s family,” Special Counsel David Weiss said after the verdict was delivered. “This case was about the illegal choices the defendant made while in the throes of addiction. No one in this country is above the law. Everyone must be accountable for their actions, even this defendant. However, Hunter Biden should be no more accountable than any other citizen convicted of this same conduct.”
President Joe Biden traveled to Delaware following his son’s guilty verdict in a show of support for his son. He also released a statement saying he will accept the outcome of this case and that he and first lady Jill Biden are proud of the man their son has become.
In September, Hunter Biden will stand trial in California where he faces nine federal tax charges.
Hamas submits its response to cease-fire proposal
Hamas responded Tuesday, June 11, to a U.S.-backed cease-fire proposal for Gaza, suggesting amendments but not fully committing to the terms. Israel is viewing the response as a rejection.
Hamas insists any ceasefire should lead to a permanent end to the war, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the reconstruction of Gaza, along with the release of Palestinian prisoners.
Despite U.S. assertions that Israel accepted the proposal, Israel has continued its operations in Gaza and has not publicly confirmed accepting any deal.
The U.S. proposal, backed by the United Nations Security Council, calls for a phased ceasefire, starting with a six-week pause in the war and negotiations for a permanent peace.
The United States also responded on Tuesday to a Wall Street Journal report. The outlet obtained messages from Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar saying he believes “more Palestinian deaths work to his advantage” calling civilian deaths “necessary sacrifices.”
National security spokesperson John Kirby said, “It should surprise and shock no one that a beast like Mr. Sinwar would actually take glee in it.”
Israel, Hamas committed war crimes, U.N. inquiry says
A United Nations inquiry published Wednesday, June 12, June 12, found that both Israel and Hamas committed war crimes during the early stages of the Gaza war. The U.N. Commission of Inquiry (COI), which also accused Israel of crimes against humanity due to significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage in Gaza, released the findings in two separate reports.
These reports covered the conflict up to the end of December, detailing violations including torture, willful killing and inhumane treatment.
Additionally, the commission found evidence of mass killings and sexual violence carried out by Palestinian armed groups.
The reports will be discussed further at the upcoming U.N. Human Rights Council session in Geneva. Israel has rejected the findings, criticizing the COI for bias. Hamas has not responded.
Federal judge blocks Florida’s transgender care ban for minors
A federal judge has struck down a Florida law blocking treatment for transgender youth, calling it “unconstitutional.” The law not only blocked gender transition surgeries and hormonal treatments for transgender minors, it also severely restricted such treatment for adults.
The judge said the state went too far when it barred transgender minors from being prescribed puberty blockers with their parents’ permission. He also stopped Florida from requiring that transgender adults only receive treatment from a doctor — and not from a registered nurse or other qualified medical practitioner.
Additionally, the judge ruled against a ban on telehealth treatment for transgender adults.
He did, however, leave in place the part of the law prohibiting surgery for minors, saying in his decision the lawsuit did not challenge it.
Weapons and Warfare is all about drones
Putting a spotlight on one of our podcasts here at Straight Arrow News’ Weapons and Warfare. This week’s episode, which is out now, is all about drones.
Ryan Robertson takes a deep dive on how the U.S. is positioned on future conflicts when it comes to drone warfare.
Hear from former Air Force leaders as well as some defense and security experts on what our national defense is doing right now and where it needs to get better when it comes to drones in the hands of today’s operators.
And in the “Weapon of the Week” segment, learn why the special forces community turned to an Alabama startup that got its start pioneering the “drone racing league.”
Find Weapons and Warfare wherever you get your podcasts.
Reigning champ Joey Chestnut out of annual July 4 hot dog eating contest
The reigning champ of the annual Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest says he won’t be chewing his way to victory this year. Joey “Jaws” Chestnut has won the contest 16 times total, every year since 2016.
So, what’s got him dogging it this year? He’s going vegan.
Well, he’s endorsing a vegan hot dog brand over Nathan’s.