Explosion rocks cargo ship leaving Baltimore Harbor

Lawyers for former special counsel Jack Smith defended him against an ethics probe into his investigations of President Trump, calling the allegations "imaginary and unfounded." The probe, initiated by the Office of the Special Counsel regarding potential Hatch Act violations, was criticized by Smith's attorneys, who asserted that his decisions were based solely on evidence and not influenced by political factors. Want More Context? 🔎

Officials in California are searching for the remains of 7-month-old Emmanuel Haro, who has been missing since August 14, after his parents, Jake Mitchell Haro and Rebecca Renee Haro, were arrested and charged with his murder. Investigators, citing inconsistencies in the mother's account, believe foul play is involved and continue efforts to locate the child's remains while both parents are held without bail. Want More Context? 🔎

The late Justice Antonin Scalia acknowledged flag burning as protected free speech, a stance President Trump challenged with an executive order aiming to prosecute such acts under certain circumstances, despite the lack of power to criminalize them directly. The order reflects public sentiment against flag desecration, but it recognizes that flag burning remains a First Amendment right upheld by the Supreme Court since the 1989 Texas v. Johnson decision. Want More Context? 🔎

California, Washington, and New Mexico risk losing millions in federal funding for failing to enforce English language requirements for truck drivers, as highlighted by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy following a deadly crash involving an unqualified driver. The states must comply within 30 days to avoid losing $33 million, $10.5 million, and $7 million, respectively, with ongoing political tensions exacerbating the situation. Want More Context? 🔎

The deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., aimed at combating crime, has instilled fear among immigrants, who feel racially targeted and traumatized in their communities, with businesses suffering as employees hesitate to work. Despite claims of reducing violent crime, residents report increased arrests and racial profiling, leading to a chilling atmosphere. Want More Context? 🔎

President Trump’s proposal to allow 600,000 Chinese international students into the U.S. has sparked backlash from Republican figures, contrasting with Secretary of State Rubio's earlier stance on revoking visas for Chinese students. Critics, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, argue this undermines American opportunities, while Trump defends the move as economically beneficial amidst easing U.S.-China tensions. Want More Context? 🔎