Juneteenth Gloom Is in the Air, Especially for Democrats

An inmate, Khalil Bryan, was mistakenly released from the Orleans Justice Center in New Orleans due to a "human error," leading to an ongoing manhunt. Authorities are investigating the incident, emphasizing the need for accountability and public safety, as Bryan has a violent criminal history and active warrants for serious charges. Want More Context? 🔎

Nearly 4,000 NASA employees, over 20% of its workforce, have applied for the agency's deferred resignation program, which aims to reduce personnel from 18,000 to 14,000 amid a proposed 25% funding cut for fiscal year 2026. The agency is also facing leadership turmoil following the withdrawal of billionaire Jared Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator and the appointment of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy as interim leader. Want More Context? 🔎

Anthony ZurcherNorth America correspondentEPATrump at his National Golf Club in Sterling, VirginiaMick Mulvaney recounted his experiences playing golf with Donald Trump, emphasizing Trump's competitive nature and how he often bested his opponents. Trump, who owns multiple golf courses and views the sport as a business and networking opportunity, has a strong passion for golf, using it to forge connections with influential figures while maintaining his competitive edge on the course. Want More Context? 🔎

On Wednesday, Jerce Reyes Barrios received a warm homecoming in Venezuela after being released from a Salvadoran prison, where he was detained as part of a controversial deportation by the Trump administration, accused of gang affiliation due to a tattoo. His attorney argued he had no criminal record and was falsely accused, as Reyes Barrios emphasized his tattoo represented his love for soccer, specifically Real Madrid. Want More Context? 🔎

In 1947, the House Un-American Activities Committee, led by Rep. John Parnell Thomas, investigated alleged Communist influence in Hollywood, resulting in the Hollywood Ten being blacklisted after refusing to testify. An exhibit at the New York Historical Society highlights the impact of this blacklist, which extended beyond Hollywood and raised enduring questions about freedom of speech and the consequences of holding unpopular views. Want More Context? 🔎

Bighorn lambs spotted after rescue from disease threat that decimated Texas herdsWildlife biologists have successfully rescued bighorn sheep in Texas, where about 50% of the population was lost to disease. After airlifting sheep from the last disease-free herd to a healthy mountain range, biologists recently found a growing herd, including newborn lambs, indicating a hopeful recovery for the species. Want More Context? 🔎