The Justice Department is leveraging the seldom-used Alien Terrorist Removal Court, established in 1996, to expedite the deportation of suspected terrorists. This court allows for the use of classified evidence against non-citizens, who cannot legally challenge its collection. The department has filed its first application to use this 'zombie' court, aiming to deport an 'alien terrorist' based on sealed, classified information. Legal experts express concern over the potential for such proceedings to bypass constitutional rights, as defendants cannot review the evidence against them. The court's structure is similar to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, and its judges are also appointed to that body.

30/100

A 16-year-old boy, Colt Gray, has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for carrying out a deadly mass shooting at Apalachee High School in Georgia. The shooting resulted in the deaths of two students and two teachers, with several others injured. The judge described Gray's actions as 'deliberate, contemplated evil,' noting his desire for notoriety within the true crime community. Prosecutors argued that Gray idolized other school shooters and meticulously planned the attack to achieve fame. The defense highlighted Gray's difficult upbringing and lack of parental stability, requesting a sentence with the possibility of parole, but the court ultimately opted for the maximum penalty.

10/100

United Parcel Service (UPS) has reported second-quarter earnings that surpassed Wall Street's expectations, leading the company to raise its full-year outlook. Despite these positive results, UPS anticipates flat domestic revenue for the third quarter. CEO Carol Tomé stated that the company has navigated its significant transformation, which included some 'bumps,' and is now returning to revenue and profit growth. She highlighted the success of the driver buyout program and the company's ongoing focus on moving the right mix of volume through its network. UPS is also investing in automation and growing markets like healthcare logistics.

75/100

The U.S. Department of Education, under the Trump administration, has launched investigations into two school districts, Denver Public Schools and Bethel School District in Washington state, over allegations of inappropriate conduct. In Denver, a teacher reportedly required students of the same sex to kiss in front of a class. In Bethel, vials of testosterone were allegedly displayed as part of a Pride month exhibit at Graham-Kapowsin High School. The department is examining whether these incidents violated federal laws protecting parental rights to opt out of school evaluations on sensitive topics. Both districts have pledged cooperation with the investigation.

45/100

A man has been arrested in connection with the vandalism and arson at the Shrine of Our Lady in Medjugorje, a renowned Catholic pilgrimage site. The incident involved defacing a statue of the Virgin Mary with the phrase 'Devil in a skirt' and setting fire to an outdoor altar. Bosnian police apprehended a suspect following the overnight attacks, which occurred just days before the shrine's annual youth prayer festival. The Medjugorje Parish Office condemned the acts and urged a response of prayer, fasting, and forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the shrine as a place of peace. Repairs are underway to ensure the site remains welcoming to pilgrims.

20/100

Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft are under increased investor scrutiny this week following Alphabet's report, which sparked a sell-off due to its boosted capital expenditure (capex) forecast for AI infrastructure. Investors are concerned about the uncertain returns on these massive investments, which are depleting cash reserves. While past capex hikes were cheered as signs of strong demand, the current environment suggests a growing 'AI fatigue.' Analysts anticipate that Amazon and Microsoft may also increase their capex guidance, potentially leading to further stock pressure, although some see this as a necessary trade-off for growth in cloud services.

40/100

In Guyana, the captain and two crew members of a passenger ferry have been charged with murder following the capsizing of the vessel on July 18, which resulted in 73 deaths and 30 missing. The ferry, believed to be carrying 179 people, sank on its route between Georgetown and Port Kaituma. Authorities reported that the three accused tested positive for marijuana use. A commission of inquiry has been established to investigate the incident, while opposition lawmakers are demanding resignations from government officials responsible for ferry services. Survivors reported the vessel was overfilled and leaking prior to the disaster.

10/100

The UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) has reported a dramatic increase in individuals being coerced into working at large-scale online scam centers across Asia, primarily in Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. An estimated 300,000 people are currently trapped in this illicit network, often lured by fake job advertisements promising lucrative employment. Victims are frequently stripped of their documents and forced to participate in fraudulent schemes, with some also facing sexual abuse. The IOM is calling for increased support for victims and greater awareness of traffickers' tactics.

15/100

A Utah woman, Lenita Moreno, has been arrested on charges of aggravated arson for allegedly setting fire to a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building just one day before her scheduled wedding. The fire caused significant damage to the church in Kaysville. Investigators believe the blaze was started using flammable items, including a tampon. Moreno's fiancé reportedly told detectives they were in the room where the fire began, and security footage allegedly showed Moreno stealing lighters from a hardware store earlier that day. The incident has raised questions about potential 'cold feet' or other motives.

15/100

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has approved a ballot measure for the November election that aims to restore funding for jail alternative programs. This measure seeks to reverse the unintended repeal of Measure J, which had mandated 10% of unrestricted county funds for initiatives like mental health treatment, housing support, and youth development. The repeal occurred due to an administrative error during the implementation of Measure G, which introduced broader governmental changes. The restoration of these funds is seen as crucial for supporting alternatives to incarceration and upholding the voters' original intent.

70/100

Families are bracing for higher expenses as the back-to-school season approaches, with a significant increase in the cost of essential supplies and lunches. An analysis indicates that the price of a typical basket of school items has risen by nearly 8% compared to last year, while school lunches will cost 11% more. Factors contributing to these rising costs include higher gas prices impacting food and clothing, and increased tariffs on imported school supplies. Many parents are planning to cut back on household expenses or take on debt to cover these back-to-school necessities.

35/100

New details have surfaced regarding the car accident involving San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan on July 14, which resulted in severe injuries including a concussion, facial lacerations, broken ribs, and a fractured hand. The accident occurred when an SUV allegedly made an unsafe turn. While Shanahan was using his phone, he was not cited, and the other driver was unharmed. The delay in reporting the incident has drawn criticism, with accusations of a coordinated media blackout. Shanahan is expected to return before the season opener, following a phased rehabilitation approach.

40/100

Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh has several reasons to potentially refrain from raising interest rates at the upcoming meeting. Firstly, Warsh has expressed skepticism about the inflationary impact of energy price shocks and rising semiconductor costs driven by AI development, suggesting the Fed can do little in the short term and that supply responses will mitigate price increases. Secondly, he has established task forces to address these complex economic questions, implying a desire to play for time and gather more data before making significant policy changes. Finally, political considerations, including navigating President Trump's desire for lower rates and potential Federal Reserve board changes, suggest a cautious approach.

65/100

Keiko Fujimori has been sworn in as the leader of Peru, marking the return of the Fujimorism political movement. Her agenda includes prioritizing security with tougher crime policies, economic recovery, and improvements in health and education. However, Fujimori faces a complex geopolitical landscape as Peru becomes a key battleground in the U.S.-China rivalry for influence in South America. The opening of the Chinese-backed Chancay port is set to increase Peru's strategic importance. Fujimori aims to balance cooperation with the U.S. on security while maintaining economic ties with China, a challenging task given the competing interests.

50/100

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has called on Senator Mitch McConnell to publicly demonstrate his capacity to serve or resign, citing concerns over the 84-year-old Republican senator's prolonged absence from public view due to rehabilitation. McConnell's office recently stated he is still not medically cleared to leave rehabilitation. Beshear suggested a video or public statement as proof of his fitness. The senator's absence raises questions about Kentucky's process for filling a Senate vacancy, which currently involves a special election if the seat becomes vacant, potentially leaving the state unrepresented for an extended period.

30/100

Keeping $10,000 in a traditional savings account with an average interest rate of 0.38% results in substantial lost earnings compared to high-yield savings, CDs, or money market accounts. Over one year, a traditional savings account would yield only $38, while a 1-year CD at 4.17% could earn $417. This means savers could be losing between $342 and $379 annually by not opting for more profitable alternatives. The article emphasizes the importance of comparing account options online to maximize savings and financial growth in the current economic climate.

70/100

President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as tensions persist over their differing approaches to Iran. Netanyahu's visit comes amid his push to continue military action against Iran and Hezbollah, while Trump has been pursuing a diplomatic opening with Tehran. Recent reports suggest Trump has privately criticized Netanyahu. The meeting is expected to address Iran, a US-Israel framework deal with Lebanon, and potential expansion of the Abraham Accords. Protests against Netanyahu's visit were also noted outside the White House.

40/100

A man in South Texas discovered that an artifact he had kept for years, believed to be a dummy Civil War-era ordnance, was actually a live explosive. After a military friend raised concerns, deputies and an explosive disposal team from Lackland Air Force Base confirmed the ordnance was active. The 'parrot round' was safely transported and disposed of at Camp Bullis. No injuries were reported, and no charges are pending. The Parrott rifle was a common cannon used during the Civil War.

60/100

Elon Musk's companies, SpaceX and Tesla, have collectively lost approximately $1.5 trillion in market capitalization since mid-June. SpaceX has experienced a nearly 50% sell-off, while Tesla's stock has dropped 18% following its earnings report. The situation is further complicated by SpaceX's upcoming earnings report and the end of its insider lockup period, which could allow for substantial stock sales. Options pricing suggests a significant swing in SpaceX's stock value, with implied volatility higher than most S&P 500 companies. Despite the declines, options traders show continued optimism for SpaceX.

25/100

President Donald Trump is reportedly pressuring Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to more aggressively reduce vaccine recommendations in the U.S. Trump, who has a history of expressing skepticism about vaccines and their link to autism, allegedly conveyed this message to Kennedy at his golf course in May. This comes after Kennedy recently made significant cuts to the childhood immunization schedule. Despite polling indicating that vaccine skepticism is a politically risky issue, Trump appears determined to make 'alleviating autism' a part of his legacy, potentially influencing public health policy.

20/100

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are visiting Washington amid a volatile global landscape and the unpredictable nature of Donald Trump's presidency. While both leaders seek support, they arrive from different positions: Netanyahu's influence has waned, while Zelenskyy's standing has risen. They are aware of Trump's weaknesses and the potential for his decisions to shift rapidly. The visits highlight the declining U.S. imperial presidency and the challenges of foreign policy under an administration that rules on whim, with neither visitor able to predict their reception.

45/100

The U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) is experiencing strain due to aging infrastructure, exacerbated by recent large-scale releases to address global supply disruptions. Federal auditors have found that the SPR's ability to respond to future emergencies is at risk, with components described as being held together with 'Band-Aids.' Despite a $1.4 billion repair plan, the scope has been narrowed. The reserve's capacity has been significantly reduced by recent withdrawals, raising concerns about its long-term operational readiness, although some experts believe it still has sufficient inventory for immediate crises.

35/100

Tributes poured in for Senator Lindsey Graham during memorial services at the U.S. Capitol and Washington National Cathedral. President Donald Trump hailed Graham as a 'true American original,' while Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Vice President J.D. Vance remembered his dedication to national security, his legislative work, and his personal warmth. The services were attended by numerous dignitaries, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reflecting Graham's significant role in foreign policy. Joint Base Charleston will be renamed in his honor.

60/100

Prominent political figures, including President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, gathered to honor the late Senator Lindsey Graham at his funeral in Washington D.C. Trump eulogized Graham as an "American original," reflecting on his significant contributions to national security and foreign policy. The ceremony at Washington National Cathedral followed an earlier tribute at the Capitol Rotunda, where colleagues remembered Graham's impactful career and his ability to foster relationships across the political aisle. Graham, who served over two decades in the Senate, passed away unexpectedly on July 11. His remains will be returned to South Carolina for further memorial services.

60/100

The debate over regulating artificial intelligence is escalating, with the Trump administration exhibiting conflicting approaches, advocating for both innovation and government oversight. Concerns are rising that the administration's ad hoc approach, relying on executive power rather than congressional legislation, could lead to cronyism and hinder transparency. While some propose private bodies or international regulatory bodies for AI oversight, congressional action remains slow. Experts warn that concentrating power over AI restrictions in the hands of the executive branch poses significant risks to democratic principles.

40/100

A coalition of 44 state attorneys general has informed the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) that it lacks the authority to regulate sports-related event contracts on prediction market platforms. The states argue that these contracts are akin to sports betting and fall under state jurisdiction, not federal oversight. This challenge comes as the CFTC proposes new rules for prediction markets, primarily focusing on sports offerings. The dispute highlights a jurisdictional battle over whether these platforms are regulated as swaps under the CFTC or as gambling under state law.

55/100

President Donald Trump held separate meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. The meetings occurred amidst strains in the U.S. relationship with Israel, particularly concerning Netanyahu's pursuit of military action against Iran, which contrasts with Trump's diplomatic overtures. While Zelenskyy sought increased military aid for Ukraine's air defenses, Netanyahu aimed to mend his relationship with Trump. Both leaders face domestic pressures, and the outcomes of their meetings reflect the unpredictable nature of the Trump administration's foreign policy.

40/100

The Senate is preparing for a crucial vote on a sanctions bill targeting Russia's war effort in Ukraine and Iran's support for terrorism. The legislation, named in honor of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, includes sanctions on Russian oil sales and tariff authority for countries evading sanctions. Proponents argue that targeting oil revenue is vital to hindering Russia's military capabilities. The bill also extends sanctions authority against Iran's energy and weapons sectors. This bipartisan agreement aims to honor Senator Graham's legacy and provide critical support to Ukraine.

65/100

Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is selling 100 shares of Procter & Gamble (PG) ahead of its earnings report, reducing its portfolio weighting. The move is a defensive strategy as shares have risen significantly, outperforming the broader market. The trust anticipates that the company might issue conservative guidance for fiscal year 2027, potentially impacting the stock price. The sale is expected to yield a small gain on the investment, which was initially made as a hedge against weakness in the AI trade. The trust notes that PG has provided valuable defensive exposure during a volatile summer.

50/100

A baseball game between the Baltimore Orioles and Detroit Tigers was briefly interrupted by an unusually persistent squirrel that evaded ground crew members for nearly an inning. The squirrel was seen running across the field, interacting with players, and leading a comical chase by stadium personnel. While the critter eventually was safely captured and released, its antics provided unexpected entertainment for fans. Orioles manager Craig Albernaz humorously commented on the squirrel's 'great view of the game,' and a Tigers spokesperson confirmed the animal was unharmed.

75/100

Audio recordings from 2016 and 2017, made while Joe Biden was working on his memoir, appear to capture him discussing sensitive information and possessing classified documents. The recordings, released by the Oversight Project, have led to allegations of cognitive decline. A spokesperson for Biden stated that the conversations were private and intended for the book, criticizing the release as a weaponization of the DOJ for political retribution. The recordings echo findings from former special counsel Robert Hur's report, which noted Biden's 'willful' retention of classified information and 'significantly limited' memory.

30/100

Traders on the Kalshi prediction market anticipate that Meta will emphasize its Ray-Ban smart glasses and its burgeoning cloud infrastructure business during its upcoming earnings call. There is a high probability that the company will discuss 'cloud' and 'Ray-Ban,' reflecting its strategic priorities. Speculators also believe Meta will mention 'silicon' related to its chips. However, it is expected that the company will avoid discussions on social media policy, with low odds for mentions of 'age verification.' Traders also foresee little discussion of Meta's internal prediction market platform or potential acquisition of Kalshi.

65/100

Three firefighters sustained injuries while battling the Green fire in the San Bernardino Mountains, an incident complicated by the steep and rugged terrain. One firefighter suffered a terrain-related injury and was hospitalized, while two others were injured when a rock shifted. All three are expected to recover. The fire, which has burned 33 acres and is 5% contained, is under investigation. The difficult access in the area highlights the challenges faced by hand crews specializing in such environments.

45/100

FIFA intends to establish a new commercial subsidiary, the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), valued at $20 billion, and sell non-controlling minority stakes to investors. The organization claims this move will immediately benefit member federations with increased funding, with all net benefits reinvested into football globally. However, UEFA has strongly criticized the plan, calling it a step too far for football's governing bodies and raising concerns about transparency and the commodification of the sport's governance. FIFA's proposed investors include Thrive Eternal, linked to Joshua Kushner, and advisors like Greg Maffei.

25/100

The UK government plans to provide financial support of up to £4,500 annually to parents on benefits to encourage their children to pursue apprenticeships. This bursary aims to offset lost Universal Credit payments when young people start vocational training. The initiative is expected to benefit a few thousand households and is funded by a £30 million pot from the growth and skills levy. This measure addresses concerns raised in a report about how the benefits system can inadvertently discourage young people from entering apprenticeships, potentially exacerbating the NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) crisis.

60/100

The Cuban-French twin duo Ibeyi has released their new album 'Offering,' marking their debut as independent artists after a decade with XL Recordings. The album delves into themes of spirituality, personal growth, and navigating life's transitions, inspired by their experiences and Cuban heritage. The sisters describe their music as a blend of electro-spiritual ballads and Afro-Cuban jazz, with a dynamic interplay between Lisa-Kaindé's ethereal vocals and Naomi's percussive grounding. The music videos for the album were filmed in Havana, showcasing their connection to their roots and community.

70/100

Betye Saar, a pioneering assemblage artist known for her impactful commentary on race and racism, has passed away at the age of 90. Her career, spanning decades, saw her transform everyday objects into potent statements about identity and social justice. Works like 'The Liberation of Aunt Jemima' and 'Black Girl's Window' are celebrated for their role in advancing the Black Arts movement and the Black women's movement. Saar's art often drew from her experiences and observations in Los Angeles, reflecting her fearless vision and profound influence on American art.

80/100

A court-appointed monitor has found that California's largest immigration detention center, the California City facility, is failing to provide adequate medical care to detainees. The report details significant deficiencies across eight key areas, including emergency care, medication access, health screenings, and accommodations for disabilities. The monitor concluded that the facility lacks a reliable system for healthcare delivery, posing serious risks to detainees. This investigation, the first of its kind ordered by a federal judge, highlights growing concerns about conditions in ICE detention centers amid record arrest numbers.

15/100

Fast-fashion retailer Shein has disclosed that its U.S. business is under investigation by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The company revealed this information in documents filed for its upcoming initial public offering in Hong Kong, though the specific nature of the FTC's probe was not detailed. Shein stated it is cooperating with the investigation and cannot predict its outcome, which could potentially result in significant monetary payments. The FTC, known for its focus on consumer protection, has previously investigated companies for deceptive practices, including 'dark patterns' that manipulate consumers.

30/100

A series of ceremonies in Washington D.C. are honoring the late Senator Lindsey Graham, with leaders from across the political spectrum and international figures paying their respects. Tributes at the U.S. Capitol and Washington National Cathedral highlighted Graham's extensive career, his influence on foreign policy, and his personal relationships. President Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy were among the notable attendees. The Senate is also set to vote on a sanctions bill named in his honor, underscoring his legislative impact.

60/100

Zinedine Zidane has been officially appointed as the new manager of the French national football team, succeeding Didier Deschamps. Zidane expressed his long-held desire for the role, having turned down other offers over the past few years. While he emphasized his intention to 'do things differently' and continue some of Deschamps' successful strategies, he offered few specific details on his tactical approach or plans for players like Kylian Mbappé. The appointment comes after a period of waiting for Zidane, who aims to maintain the team's winning momentum.

70/100

California lifeguards have performed thousands of ocean rescues over the past few days as millions flocked to the coast to escape record-breaking heat and contend with high surf generated by Hurricane Genevieve. Incidents included dramatic rescues captured on video and a teen injured attempting a cliff jump. Authorities are urging beachgoers to exercise extreme caution due to hazardous swimming conditions, including strong rip currents and elevated waves. The summer has already been exceptionally busy, with numerous rescues and tragic drownings reported.

50/100