General Motors is recalling nearly 600,000 SUVs and trucks in the U.S. due to potential engine failure caused by manufacturing defects in the connecting rod and crankshaft of the 6.2L V8 engine. The recall encompasses 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL models. Dealers will inspect engines and perform repairs or replacements as needed; those passing inspection will receive higher-viscosity oil, a new oil fill cap, and an oil filter. This action follows a NHTSA investigation and numerous field reports of engine failures, including 12 crashes and 12 injuries.
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The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit to serve in Europe during World War II, will receive the Congressional Gold Medal. This long-overdue honor recognizes their extraordinary service in clearing a massive mail backlog in England and France, exceeding expectations by completing the task twice as fast as projected. Their accomplishments, previously overlooked, are now finally being celebrated, with the medal presented to the family of their commander, Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley. The recognition comes after a sustained campaign and highlights the significant contributions of these pioneering Black women to the war effort.
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House Republicans, led by Speaker Mike Johnson, are using a procedural maneuver to prevent Democrats from forcing votes on resolutions of inquiry for the next six months. This effectively blocks Democratic efforts to investigate the Trump administration’s “Signalgate” scandal, which involves the leaking of sensitive military information. The move halts oversight efforts, particularly concerning Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s alleged sharing of classified information. Despite significant public support for an investigation, including among Republicans, the GOP leadership is prioritizing party loyalty over accountability.
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Right-wing media outlets have expressed outrage over Democrats’ increased use of profanity in public, deeming it “undignified” and “embarrassing,” despite overlooking similar behavior from Donald Trump and his supporters. This hypocrisy is highlighted by the stark contrast between the right’s past acceptance of Trump’s frequent swearing and their current condemnation of Democrats employing similar language. Conservative pundits suggest the Democrats’ profanity is a strategic, calculated move, unlike what they characterize as Trump’s more spontaneous outbursts. This selective outrage underscores a double standard in the media’s coverage of political discourse.
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Mark Carney’s Liberal Party secured a projected victory in Canada’s election, marking a significant comeback from near-collapse earlier this year. However, the Liberals failed to achieve a majority government, necessitating coalition-building to address ongoing trade disputes and threats from the United States. Carney emphasized the need for national unity in the face of these challenges, portraying himself as a seasoned leader capable of navigating the crisis. A close vote share between the Liberals and Conservatives highlights the nation’s deep divisions and the difficult path ahead for the new government.
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Zelenskyy rejected Putin’s proposed three-day ceasefire for May 8, instead calling for an immediate month-long truce, citing previous broken Russian ceasefires and prioritizing the preservation of Ukrainian lives over symbolic dates. Simultaneously, air raid alerts sounded in Kyiv, with air defenses engaging incoming attacks. Germany’s incoming chancellor pledged unwavering support for Ukraine, appointing a pro-Kyiv foreign minister. Finally, the US reiterated its commitment to ending the conflict through diplomatic channels, a conversation occurring before Putin’s ceasefire announcement.
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Amazon briefly considered adding import charges to its ultra-low-cost Haul platform, but ultimately decided against it. This decision followed a news report suggesting Amazon would display tariffs, prompting a negative White House reaction and a personal call from President Trump to Jeff Bezos. The White House’s criticism stemmed from the timing of the reported plan, and ultimately the decision was deemed a “good move” by the Commerce Secretary. The consideration was unrelated to the recent tariff increases, and Amazon is currently assessing the impact of those tariffs on its third-party sellers and overall business.
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Former German President Joachim Gauck expressed concern that Germany lacks the mental fortitude for war, advocating for increased national resilience alongside military buildup. He emphasized the need for a “new seriousness” in confronting challenges, citing a lack of preparedness beyond technical capabilities. Gauck also urged a firmer stance against Vladimir Putin, warning that appeasement would constitute “submission,” not peace. His comments coincide with the incoming chancellor’s plans for substantial military investment.
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Newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that any future discussions with the US regarding trade and security will occur only on Canada’s terms, prioritizing national sovereignty. He dismissed President Trump’s suggestion of Canada becoming the “51st state” as unrealistic and emphasized the importance of a respectful partnership. Carney highlighted Canada’s significant economic contributions to the US, including energy and fertilizer, asserting Canada’s right to respect and a mutually beneficial relationship. Despite strained relations and existing tariffs, he expressed optimism for a future partnership, but one distinct from past dealings.
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The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) strongly condemns President Trump’s tariffs, characterizing them as a direct attack on the working class and detrimental to the U.S. economy. The tariffs have already caused a significant decline in Asian shipments to West Coast ports, impacting numerous sectors beyond dockworkers, including trucking, warehousing, and supply chain management. This disruption is leading to increased prices for consumers and businesses are struggling to adapt to rapidly changing trade policies. Experts predict further economic consequences as the ripple effects of reduced imports intensify inflationary pressures and shortages.
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John Q. Hosedrinker