Democracy at stake as populists battle mayors in EU’s troubled east

In her dissent in United States v. Skmetti, Justice Sotomayor argues that transgender individuals face discrimination and lack political power to advocate for their rights, contrasting their situation with that of other marginalized groups. She emphasizes that laws reflecting irrational prejudice against transgender persons must be struck down, regardless of whether they are classified as a suspect class. Need More Context? 🔎

Queensland edged New South Wales 26-24 at Optus Stadium, leveling the State of Origin series at one-all after a tense second half. Despite leading 26-6 at halftime, Queensland faced a fierce comeback from NSW, highlighted by Brian To’o’s hat-trick, but held on to win with effective kicking from Valentine Holmes. Need More Context? 🔎

Mitch Marner's future with the Toronto Maple Leafs is uncertain, with teammates suggesting he may seek a trade to a Western Conference team for a fresh start, away from the pressures of Toronto. While interest from teams like the Carolina Hurricanes has been noted, the focus is on potential suitors such as the Los Angeles Kings and Vegas Golden Knights, as trade discussions are expected to continue into the summer. Need More Context? 🔎

Thomas Campbell, 38, was found murdered in his Mossley home, bound with duct tape and suffering multiple injuries, including stab wounds and burns, as prosecutors claim the attack was orchestrated by John Belfield, who denies involvement. Belfield, in a relationship with Campbell's ex-girlfriend, allegedly plotted the robbery with accomplices, including Colleen Campbell, who provided information about her ex-husband's movements. Need More Context? 🔎

U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel have finalized their partnership, retaining U.S. Steel's name and headquarters in Pittsburgh while committing to over $11 billion in investments by 2028, creating 100,000 jobs in the U.S. A National Security Agreement ensures U.S. governance of the company, including board members being U.S. citizens, while allowing U.S. Steel to operate independently. Need More Context? 🔎

The Israeli army's air strikes and gunfire in Gaza on Wednesday resulted in at least 32 Palestinian deaths and numerous injuries, particularly targeting crowds awaiting humanitarian aid. The ongoing offensive, which has claimed nearly 55,400 Palestinian lives since October 2023, faces international scrutiny, including war crime charges against Israeli leadership. Need More Context? 🔎