A federal judge ruled against Republican candidate Jefferson Griffin’s attempt to overturn his loss in the North Carolina Supreme Court election, ordering the state to certify Democrat Allison Riggs as the winner by her 734-vote margin. The judge found Griffin’s challenge to over 65,000 ballots unconstitutionally burdened the right to vote and retroactively altered election rules. This decision, however, is temporarily stayed for seven days pending a potential appeal by Griffin. The ruling prevents a planned “cure period” that would have disenfranchised potentially thousands of voters.
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Three South Korean companies, with government backing, submitted a multibillion-dollar proposal to Canada to modernize its military. The proposal includes a $20-24 billion plan to replace Canada’s aging submarines by 2035, exceeding the current timeline. Additional proposals, exceeding $1 billion, offer artillery and armored vehicles, alongside the establishment of Canadian maintenance and potentially manufacturing facilities. This unsolicited bid represents a significant effort to secure Canadian military contracts, presenting a quicker alternative to traditional U.S. and European suppliers amid concerns about procurement timelines and capacity. The proposal emphasizes a long-term partnership focused on bolstering Canada’s defence industrial base.
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In discussing his vision for Alcatraz, Trump highlighted its historical significance as a symbol of law and order, referencing its portrayal in films and its notorious reputation for containing the world’s most violent criminals. He noted the island’s current status as a popular museum, despite its impenetrable security record. Trump ultimately expressed his desire for Alcatraz to be significantly expanded and revitalized.
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Russian air defenses intercepted a large number of Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow for a second consecutive night, leading to temporary airport closures. While one drone reportedly struck an apartment building causing window damage, officials reported no casualties. Debris fell in several locations, prompting emergency services response. The attacks follow a pattern of Ukrainian drone strikes on Moscow, which Kyiv frames as retaliation for Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure.
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Following a legal challenge, the Trump administration reversed its decision to cut off Maine’s school meal funding, totaling over $3 million, after a federal judge ruled the USDA likely failed to adhere to legal procedures. This action stemmed from Maine’s refusal to comply with the administration’s anti-transgender sports ban, a move seen as using school meals to punish inclusive policies. The USDA agreed to restore funding and cease using this tactic, though separate legal action threatening broader education funding remains. This victory for Maine highlights a larger national battle over transgender rights and the use of federal funding to pressure states into discriminatory practices.
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In preparation for Portugal’s May 18th general election, the caretaker government announced plans to expel approximately 18,000 undocumented immigrants. The process will begin next week with voluntary departure requests for 4,500 individuals, followed by mandatory expulsion orders. This action comes amid a rise of populism in Portugal, with the far-right Chega party gaining significant influence. The current government, following a confidence vote loss, dissolved parliament and called for early elections.
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President Trump announced US aid to alleviate food shortages in Gaza, citing the suffering of the Gazan people. This assistance follows an Israeli cabinet approval of humanitarian aid alongside military action. The President blamed Hamas for exacerbating the crisis by appropriating incoming supplies. The US intervention aims to directly address the humanitarian needs of the population amidst ongoing conflict.
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Representative Collins’s inflammatory claim comparing a new halal restaurant in the House cafeteria to “the Muslim conquest of Jerusalem” is demonstrably inaccurate and reveals a profound lack of understanding of both geography and his colleagues. His own social media post contradicts his assertion, showcasing the Virginia-based location of the restaurant, while ignoring that a fellow Republican and other Muslim representatives serve alongside him. This incident highlights Collins’s history of intolerance, further emphasizing the need for greater understanding and inclusivity. His response is ultimately characterized by a lack of nuance and a disregard for factual accuracy.
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Lawmaker Mike Lawler’s town hall meeting was disrupted by constituents protesting his stance on presidential authority regarding tariffs, leading to several attendees’ removal by security personnel. This incident, captured on video and photos, follows a previous contentious town hall where Lawler faced accusations of dishonesty. Lawler, a Republican representing a swing district, is notable for continuing to hold these public forums despite the increasingly hostile responses. The use of state troopers, rather than private security, in removing protestors has prompted calls for an investigation.
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John Reilly, a Town of Chester highway superintendent and federally licensed firearms dealer, was arrested and charged with felony assault and weapons possession for allegedly shooting a lost DoorDash driver. The incident occurred Friday night after the driver, seeking directions, approached Reilly’s home, prompting Reilly to fire multiple shots, striking the driver in the back. The driver sustained serious injuries. Reilly is scheduled for a court appearance this Friday.
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John Q. Hosedrinker