Virginia GOP Senate candidate suggests people tolerant of drag queens aren’t tough enough for the military

A Kansas sheriff's deputy, Elijah Ming, was shot and killed while responding to a civil standby call on Saturday afternoon; the suspect, Shawn Harris, 38, barricaded himself inside a residence before being apprehended. Deputy Ming, who served nearly nine years, was taken to the hospital but later succumbed to his injuries, prompting condolences from local officials and an investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Want More Context? 🔎

AstronomerFollowing a viral scandal involving its former CEO, Astronomer released a humorous promotional video featuring Gwyneth Paltrow to boost brand awareness. The video addresses common public inquiries and highlights the company's services, resulting in a significant increase in website traffic and media attention. Want More Context? 🔎

An air quality health advisory has been issued for New York City and surrounding areas due to smoke from Canadian wildfires, with an air quality index (AQI) expected to exceed 100. Over 550 active fires in Canada have led to tens of thousands of evacuations, prompting concerns about pollution and climate change, as scientists link the worsening wildfire seasons to rising global temperatures. Want More Context? 🔎

At least 11 people were injured in a stabbing at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan, with one suspect in custody using a folding knife. The incident is being investigated as a random act of violence, and local hospitals are treating the victims, with three undergoing surgery; Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her condolences to the victims and the community. Want More Context? 🔎

After nearly four years, Ashley Benefield's trial for the second-degree murder of her estranged husband Doug began in summer 2024, with claims of self-defense amid allegations of domestic abuse. The prosecution argued Ashley wanted sole custody of their daughter Emerson, while supporters, including Emerson and Doug's daughter Eva, voiced their opinions on the unfolding case. Want More Context? 🔎

Robin Levinson Kingin Boston, Massachusettsand Max Matzain Lacey, WashingtonGetty ImagesTrash is piling up in Garden Grove, California - one of the communities affected by the strikesGarbage strikes are affecting multiple U.S. cities, with over 2,000 Republic Services workers on strike due to low pay and poor benefits, impacting sanitation services. As trash piles up, cities like Gloucester have joined lawsuits against the company, while Republic accuses the Teamsters union of illegal behavior, escalating tensions on...