Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband Brandon Blackstock dead at 48

The Trump administration plans to reverse cuts to the National Weather Service (NWS), allowing NOAA to hire 450 staff, including meteorologists and hydrologists, amid scrutiny following deadly summer floods. Reps. Sorensen and Flood, who co-sponsored the Weather Workforce Improvement Act, emphasized the need for permanent staffing solutions to avoid future cuts and ensure public safety. Want More Context? 🔎

Jairo Eliezer Arias Caceres, a former security officer at the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic, was indicted for smuggling cocaine into the U.S. in Marlboro cartons and Choco-pie boxes, allegedly building a transnational conspiracy from April to December 2023. U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton criticized Arias Caceres for endangering New Yorkers instead of protecting embassy staff, while his attorney has not been identified. Want More Context? 🔎

A senior FBI official, Brian Driscoll, who briefly served as acting director at the start of Trump's second term, has been fired without explanation, following his resistance to a DOJ request for names of agents involved in January 6 investigations. Another official, Steve Jensen, is also reportedly being terminated, raising concerns among FBI agents about due process and political retribution. Want More Context? 🔎

Two Pennsylvania state troopers were shot while responding to a call in Susquehanna County, with Governor Josh Shapiro stating the situation remains active. Both troopers are reported to be in stable condition, and authorities are urging the public to avoid the area as an investigation continues. Want More Context? 🔎

A federal judge has temporarily halted construction at an immigration detention center in the Florida Everglades, known as "Alligator Alcatraz," while environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe argue that it violates environmental laws. The facility can still operate, but no new construction will occur for the next 14 days as the court considers whether the project breaches the National Environmental Policy Act. Want More Context? 🔎

When Sgt. Quornelius Radford opened fire at Fort Stewart, six soldiers heroically intervened, tackling the shooter and providing critical aid to five wounded service members. While three soldiers were released from the hospital soon after, Radford, who violated regulations by bringing a personal handgun on base, is in custody as investigations continue into the motive behind the attack. Want More Context? 🔎