Federal judge blocks mass layoffs and reorganization plans at HHS

Washington — Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer stated she answered every question posed by Todd Blanche, a Justice Department official, during two days of meetings, discussing numerous individuals and topics related to her involvement with Jeffrey Epstein. Maxwell, serving a 20-year sentence for aiding Epstein's abuse of underage girls, has been subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee, while former President Trump indicated he hasn't considered a pardon for her. Want More Context? 🔎

Rep. Ro Khanna, speaking at the Voters of Tomorrow Summit in Washington, D.C., called for a "new Democratic Party" that prioritizes the working class and rejects big money in politics. He emphasized the need for transparency and a shift away from the old guard in the party to regain trust and align with the values of younger voters, advocating for a populist, multiracial approach to leadership. Want More Context? 🔎

A phenomenon known as "corn sweat," resulting from evapotranspiration, may worsen the extreme heat affecting much of the U.S. during summer. As corn and soybean crops release moisture into the atmosphere, they can increase local humidity, making high temperatures feel even more dangerous, especially in the Midwest's Corn Belt, where heat alerts are in effect. Want More Context? 🔎

President Trump is contemplating issuing rebate checks to Americans, funded by the tariff revenue collected since his administration raised import duties, which has generated about $100 billion so far. While he emphasized the importance of reducing federal debt, projected to increase significantly due to recent tax cuts, he noted that the rebates might be targeted at certain income levels, pending congressional approval. Want More Context? 🔎

Dozens of people were unintentionally dosed with THC after eating food from Famous Yeti's Pizza in Wisconsin, which mistakenly used THC-infused oil instead of canola oil while preparing meals. Emergency services reported multiple hospitalizations for THC intoxication symptoms, leading to a public health investigation, but no charges were filed as the incident was deemed unintentional, and the restaurant reopened shortly after. Want More Context? 🔎

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed regret for her controversial trip to Ghana while wildfires ravaged the city, stating she was unaware of the impending danger. Despite her claims of not being briefed, reports indicate her team was aware of the fire risks before her departure, and she returned just as the fires began devastating neighborhoods, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life. Want More Context? 🔎