Ocasio-Cortez mobilizes Democrats against Schumer plan as colleagues privately urge her to consider primary challenge

A Michigan mother, Anne Vanker, is devastated after Kiernan Tague, the 18-year-old who killed her son Flynn MacKrell in a high-speed crash, was sentenced to probation instead of prison. Vanker criticized the justice system for not holding Tague accountable, citing his reckless behavior and lack of remorse, while advocating for stronger laws to prevent similar tragedies. Need More Context? 🔎

A South Florida man, Tiron Alexander, 35, was convicted of wire fraud for booking over 120 free flights by falsely posing as a flight attendant from 2018 to 2024, using credentials from multiple airlines. He flew on 34 of these flights without payment, and his sentencing is scheduled for August 25, as the TSA confirmed he did not pose a threat to passengers during his fraudulent activities. Need More Context? 🔎

Democratic Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota confronted GOP Sen. Mike Lee over a controversial social media post following the targeted shootings of Minnesota lawmakers, expressing the pain it caused her and others. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned Lee's remarks as reckless, while Smith hoped her direct approach would encourage more thoughtful discourse from Lee. Need More Context? 🔎

Residents near Green Isle, Minnesota, reacted to an intense police manhunt that led to the arrest of neighbor Vance Boelter. Wendy Thomas spotted him hiding near a culvert while visiting a neighbor, alerted authorities, and Boelter was taken into custody shortly after; neighbors expressed shock, noting his previously amiable demeanor. Need More Context? 🔎

Former Sen. Bob Menendez is reporting to prison to serve an 11-year sentence for federal bribery charges, with expectations to be housed in a minimum-security facility in Pennsylvania. He was convicted last year for accepting bribes in exchange for political favors, and despite maintaining his innocence, he has resigned from the Senate and is seeking a pardon from President Trump. Need More Context? 🔎

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals will hear California's challenge to the Trump administration's federalization of the National Guard amid protests over immigration enforcement in Los Angeles. A lower court had issued a temporary restraining order to return control of the National Guard to Governor Gavin Newsom, citing illegal actions by Trump, but an appeal granted a stay on that order. Need More Context? 🔎