US judge tosses Illinois' ban on semiautomatic weapons, governor pledges swift appeal

Lockport Mayor Steven Streit seeks a fourth term in the April 1 election, challenged by 3rd Ward Ald. Darren Deskin, who emphasizes term limits. Streit, in office since 2013, prioritizes public safety, water quality, and downtown revitalization. Other contested races include aldermanic seats and city clerk and treasurer positions, with Deskin focusing on infrastructure improvements and economic development if elected. Full Article

NBC News chief political analyst Chuck Todd criticized President Biden for emotionally pardoning his son Hunter, whom he feels he has failed as a parent, attributing his actions to unresolved grief over the loss of his other son Beau. Todd suggested that Biden's decision stemmed from a need to protect Hunter, questioning Biden's emotional capacity for the presidency. Despite Biden's previous statements against pardoning his son, Hunter expressed gratitude and a commitment to helping others...

In the YSL gang trial, the last two defendants were found not guilty of murder. Rapper Deamonte Kendrick, known as Yak Gotti, was acquitted of all charges, while Shannon Stillwell was only found guilty of a gun possession charge. Young Thug, real name Jeffery Williams, had previously pleaded guilty to gang, drug, and gun charges in October. Full Article

Dr. Zac Turner addresses a TikTok trend suggesting bee pollen can increase breast size, explaining that while bee pollen is nutrient-rich and beneficial for overall health, there is no scientific evidence supporting its ability to enlarge breasts. Phytoestrogens in bee pollen are not potent enough to stimulate breast tissue growth, and real health benefits come from a balanced diet and exercise, not quick-fix trends. Turner advises against relying on bee pollen for breast enhancement and...

CNN host Jake Tapper criticized President Biden for pardoning his son Hunter after denying he would do so, calling it an indictment of his administration. Tapper highlighted Biden and his surrogates' denials of a pardon, juxtaposing them with reports that the president had been discussing it since June. He also pointed out the political benefits of the pardon and accused Biden of undermining his own Justice Department by pardoning Hunter. Full Article

IE 11 is not supported for an optimal experience on our site, prompting users to visit using another browser. In other news, Israel and Hezbollah engage in new attacks, threatening their fragile cease-fire, while President-elect Trump demands the release of hostages held by Hamas. Despite the violence, the Biden administration asserts that the cease-fire is holding. Full Article