Mortgage rates climb back above 7% after Moody’s U.S. debt downgrade

Video footage from the Jan. 6 Capitol attack reveals Jared Wise, now a Justice Department adviser, inciting rioters to harm law enforcement officers, referring to them as "the Gestapo." Wise, who faced six charges related to the incident and pleaded not guilty, had his case dismissed following blanket pardons issued by former President Trump on the day of his inauguration. Want More Context? 🔎

New York City's Ace’s Place, aimed at supporting transgender individuals, has been announced by the Department of Social Services to provide a safe environment for healing and stability amidst rising discrimination. It addresses the significant homelessness and poverty rates within the transgender community, marking a critical step towards inclusivity and support for marginalized groups. Want More Context? 🔎

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? 🔎