Pro-Palestinian demonstrations at colleges in the U.S. have been escalating, with tensions rising at campuses like Northeastern University and Columbia University. Antisemitic incidents have also been on the rise since Hamas’ attack on Israel. Some are disappointed in the Biden administration’s response to stamping out antisemitism. House Speaker Mike Johnson suggested calling in the National Guard to quell unrest, while Senator Tim Kaine disagreed. Biden and Harris plan to have a minimal presence at upcoming commencement addresses.
Severe storms and tornadoes have devastated the Midwest, with over 100 tornadoes causing significant damage across six states. Several counties in Oklahoma reported severe damage, injuries, blackouts, and at least four deaths, prompting Gov. Kevin Stitt to declare a disaster emergency. Millions are at risk of further severe weather, flash flooding, and storms are expected from southern Missouri to southeast Texas, with warnings remaining in effect until Monday.
Hamas released a video featuring two Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza since October, appealing for their release. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called on the U.S. to persuade Israel not to attack the border city of Rafah. World Central Kitchen announced it will resume operations in Gaza after seven aid workers were killed in an Israeli airstrike. In lighter news, Biden joked about his age and took jabs at Trump at the White House correspondents’ dinner, emphasizing the seriousness of the upcoming election.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell didn’t express support for a federal 15-week abortion ban, stating it should be decided at the state level. The issue arises after the Supreme Court eliminated the constitutional right to abortion. Former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker’s testimony in Trump’s hush money trial revealed shocking tactics. South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem defended a passage in her book describing her decision to euthanize her dog. Rep. Bill Posey of Florida announced he won’t seek re-election.
Harvey Weinstein was hospitalized for tests after he was transferred to Rikers Island jail ahead of a court appearance. Weinstein’s rape conviction was recently overturned, and the DA’s office plans to seek a retrial. Grizzly bears will be reintroduced to Washington state’s North Cascades mountain range, with advocates citing ecosystem health benefits, while opponents fear safety risks to people and livestock. The process involves trapping, trucking, and moving bears from neighboring regions. The emerging trend of tenniscore, inspired by Zendaya’s tennis-focused film “Challengers,” has gained popularity among fashion enthusiasts.
