The court has ruled that Elon Musk and two officials likely possess crucial first-hand knowledge regarding decisions that led to the termination of USAID programs, particularly in light of Musk’s public statements on X. Despite the Justice Department’s attempts to shield Musk from testimony due to separation-of-powers concerns, the judge determined he does not hold a position affording him legal protection from testifying. This ruling follows the court’s prior rejection of the Trump administration’s effort to dismiss the employees’ case.
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The Legislature has passed LB258, amending the state’s minimum wage law. This new legislation revises the previously approved increase, setting a lower minimum wage of $13.50 per hour for 14- and 15-year-olds. Additionally, 16- to 19-year-olds can be paid this reduced rate for an initial 90-day training period, a move intended to encourage youth employment.
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During a late-night posting spree on Truth Social, Donald Trump shared a video featuring doctored footage of Barack and Michelle Obama with their heads superimposed onto animated apes, promoting conspiracy theories about rigged elections. This offensive content, which was not published by the Daily Beast, drew sharp criticism. Trump’s extensive activity also included reposting older videos related to Obama’s voter ID, confrontational footage of Laura Loomer, and a piece advocating for Trump’s inclusion on Mount Rushmore. Notably, he also shared content referencing Jeffrey Epstein, including a photo of himself with the convicted sex offender and a quote from author Michael Wolff regarding Trump’s alleged involvement in Epstein’s downfall.
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The Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh, a long-standing affluent enclave, now houses a discreet store serving as a testing ground for Saudi Arabia’s controlled sale of alcohol to wealthy non-Muslim foreigners. This development signals a sensitive policy shift within the kingdom, which previously banned alcohol sales in 1952. These changes are part of broader reforms under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman aimed at reshaping Saudi Arabia’s image as a more moderate and investment-friendly society, building on recent reopenings of cinemas, music festivals, and the lifting of the ban on women driving.
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This article emphasizes the critical role of reader support in sustaining newsroom operations amidst widespread downsizing. Membership is presented as the vital mechanism that enables the continuation of impactful journalism, ensuring crucial issues affecting lives and communities are thoroughly investigated and reported. Therefore, reader contributions are directly responsible for the ability to produce and disseminate this essential work.
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A recent NPR/PBS News/Marist poll reveals President Donald Trump’s disapproval rating has reached its highest point since the January 6th Capitol riots, with 56 percent of Americans disapproving of his leadership and 51 percent strongly disapproving. This sentiment is particularly strong regarding his handling of the economy and foreign policy, and is further fueled by a 65 percent disapproval of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s actions following recent shootings. The article notes that Trump’s base, particularly Latinos, young people, and independents, is reportedly wavering, though his core supporters remain largely behind him on key policy decisions.
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In response to declining U.S. same-store sales and outdated store formats, Pizza Hut intends to shutter 250 underperforming domestic locations during the first half of this year. This strategic move by parent company Yum Brands coincides with a formal review of options for the pizza chain, which has faced increasing competition. While U.S. performance has faltered, Pizza Hut has seen stronger results internationally, particularly in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Yum Brands anticipates completing its review of strategic alternatives for Pizza Hut within the current year.
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A suicide bombing at the Tarlai Imambargah shrine in Islamabad, Pakistan, tragically resulted in at least 69 fatalities and 169 injuries. Alert security guards reportedly intervened before the bomber could reach the main hall, though the detonation still caused significant damage to the entrance and surrounding structures. The incident, which prompted a city-wide emergency, follows a similar deadly attack at an Islamabad court just months prior. The Prime Minister has strongly condemned the blast, expressing deep grief over the loss of life.
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Former U.S. Border Patrol Commander-at-Large Gregory Bovino was reportedly asked to leave a Las Vegas bar due to safety concerns for its customers. A representative from the Bottled Blonde establishment stated that Bovino was escorted out in accordance with venue policy to maintain a safe environment. This incident occurred days after Bovino was removed from his post in Minneapolis, where federal officers had recently fatally shot protesters. The report coincides with President Trump’s acknowledgment that a “softer touch” might be needed in Minnesota, as public opinion increasingly suggests federal agents have overstepped their authority.
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A secretive US government operation has been utilizing a private jet owned by Florida property tycoon Gil Dezer to deport Palestinian men arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to the Israeli-occupied West Bank. This marks a policy shift driven by aggressive deportation campaigns, with the jet making multiple stops for refueling before dropping off disoriented and cold deportees at a West Bank checkpoint. Both the deportees and former US officials highlight the sensitive and politically charged nature of these flights, which have raised questions about due process and international legal norms.
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John Q. Hosedrinker
Trump ally’s jet used by ICE to deport Palestinians
A secretive US government operation has been utilizing a private jet owned by Florida property tycoon Gil Dezer to deport Palestinian men arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to the Israeli-occupied West Bank. This marks a policy shift driven by aggressive deportation campaigns, with the jet making multiple stops for refueling before dropping off disoriented and cold deportees at a West Bank checkpoint. Both the deportees and former US officials highlight the sensitive and politically charged nature of these flights, which have raised questions about due process and international legal norms.
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