Stocks pummeled as Nasdaq sinks 4%, Dow drops 1,000 points as new China tariffs loom over markets

Crisis in the Middle East President Trump announced that three hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have died, leaving 21 still believed to be alive, following Israel's plans to seize the Gaza Strip to recover hostages and combat Hamas. This operation, approved by Israel, aims to expand military efforts in the region and has already faced significant international backlash. The situation remains critical as the conflict continues to unfold, impacting the lives of numerous hostages...

The United States has 10 out of the 133 cardinals eligible to vote in the upcoming papal conclave, second only to Italy. Among these electors are Timothy Dolan and Blase Cupich, who actively serve as archbishops, alongside retired archbishops like Daniel DiNardo and Wilton Gregory. The group includes diverse figures such as Raymond Burke, a traditionalist often at odds with Pope Francis, and Cupich, a moderate adviser to the Pope, reflecting a range of perspectives...

President Donald Trump will headline a fundraiser for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts next month, with top sponsorships selling for $2 million. Hosted by the Kennedy Center's board of trustees, which Trump chairs, the event features a VIP reception and a performance of Les Misérables; however, Trump is not directly soliciting donations. Following a leadership overhaul at the center, Trump, who has called it an "American jewel," aims to restore its...

The body of 10-year-old Dhava Woods was recovered in Texas after she was swept away by floodwaters while walking home from school. The search concluded amidst ongoing severe weather that has affected millions across the South and Northeast, with flash flood warnings and tornado watches issued in several states. Local officials expressed condolences to Woods' family and urged the community to offer support during this tragic time. Full Article

SummaryThe head of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Secretary Doug Collins, defended the agency's plan to cut 15% of its workforce, including the termination of over 2,400 employees and 585 contracts, stating it aims to increase efficiency. During his testimony, he emphasized that front-line health care roles would be preserved while nonessential positions, such as those in diversity initiatives, would be eliminated, claiming this would enhance productivity and redirect funds to veterans' needs. Critics,...

U.S. Trade Deficit Reaches Record High Amid Tariff UncertaintyThe U.S. trade deficit hit a record $140.5 billion in March, nearly double from $68.6 billion a year prior, as businesses and consumers stockpiled goods, particularly pharmaceuticals, in anticipation of President Trump's impending tariffs. March imports surged to nearly $419 billion, with a notable increase in consumer goods and pharmaceutical products, primarily from Ireland. This influx contributed to a GDP decline of 0.3% in the first quarter,...