The Department of Health and Human Services terminated a $766 million contract with Moderna to develop an mRNA bird flu vaccine, citing concerns about the mRNA technology’s safety and lack of transparency. This decision, despite Moderna’s reporting of positive interim results from a Phase 1/2 study, shifts federal funding priorities toward vaccine platforms with established safety profiles. Critics argue this cancellation jeopardizes pandemic preparedness, particularly given the evolving threat of H5N1 avian flu and the limited availability of alternative vaccine production methods. The move has drawn sharp criticism from public health experts who warn of increased risks to the American public.
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Governor Whitmer expressed deep disappointment over President Trump’s consideration of pardoning the individuals convicted of plotting her kidnapping. She condemned political violence regardless of target or origin, highlighting her own condemnation of an attack on President Trump. Whitmer plans to communicate her concerns to the White House, despite recent collaborations with Trump on state matters. These meetings, including one where Trump signed executive orders targeting political opponents, have drawn criticism but Whitmer maintains her focus on bipartisan cooperation for Michigan’s benefit.
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Teak Ty Brockbank received a three-year prison sentence for issuing online death threats against election officials Jena Griswold and Katie Hobbs, along with other individuals. The judge cited a need for deterrence against rising threats against public officials and emphasized the importance of resolving differences through democratic processes, not violence. Brockbank, who pleaded guilty, attributed his actions to exposure to far-right extremist content online and expressed remorse. The sentencing reflects the Justice Department’s efforts to combat threats against election officials.
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HuffPost’s unwavering commitment to truthful, fact-based journalism spans two decades. This dedication has been fueled by reader support, crucial for navigating challenging periods. Continued contributions are essential to ensure the future of HuffPost’s mission. The newsroom’s strength depends on ongoing reader engagement. Therefore, renewed support is vital to maintaining the publication’s vital role in delivering unbiased news.
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Elon Musk is concluding his temporary role as a Special Government Employee, departing from his position with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Accompanying him in this departure is White House advisor Katie Miller, who will now work full-time for Musk. While Musk claims DOGE’s mission will continue to strengthen, he publicly criticized a recent bill passed by Congress, citing increased deficit spending. Miller’s husband, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, defended the bill, while praising DOGE’s accomplishments.
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A federal appeals court temporarily stayed a lower court ruling that invalidated most of President Trump’s tariffs, granting the administration’s request for a pause. This stay allows the administration time to argue against the lower court’s decision, which found the president lacked the authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose the tariffs. Plaintiffs, including state attorneys general and businesses, have a week to respond before the appeals court makes a final decision. The White House strongly criticized the lower court’s ruling, while plaintiffs expressed confidence in a reversal.
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Two-year-old American citizen Emanuelly Borges Santos was deported to Brazil with her undocumented parents by the Trump administration, despite possessing a U.S. passport and Social Security card. Brazilian officials were surprised by her presence among the deportees, and Manu now lacks access to healthcare and education while living on a temporary tourist visa. Her parents claim they were not given a choice regarding her deportation, contradicting DHS statements. This incident highlights concerns about the Trump administration’s mass deportation efforts and the potential impact of a Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship.
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Pressure is building on President Trump to immediately impose new sanctions against Russia for its ongoing war in Ukraine, with both Republican Congress members and White House advisors urging swift action. Trump, however, has delayed a decision, hoping to negotiate a ceasefire with Putin, citing concerns that sanctions are ineffective and escalate tensions. A comprehensive sanctions package targeting Russia’s banking and energy sectors is under consideration, alongside a proposed congressional bill implementing steep tariffs on nations purchasing Russian oil. Despite previously suggesting he could quickly resolve the conflict, Trump’s recent rhetoric reflects increased frustration with Putin’s actions.
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A US trade court ruled President Trump’s sweeping tariffs illegal, exceeding his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The Trump administration immediately appealed, seeking a stay from the ruling to prevent what it called irreparable economic harm, and plans to take the case to the Supreme Court. The ruling invalidated tariff orders issued under the IEEPA, requiring new orders within ten days, but industry-specific tariffs remain unaffected. While the White House denounced the decision as judicial overreach, the ruling was celebrated in global financial markets.
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President Trump’s $20 billion lawsuit against Paramount Global over a “60 Minutes” segment featuring Kamala Harris alleges deceptive editing that violated Texas consumer protection laws. Paramount’s motion to dismiss, citing First Amendment protection, was opposed by Trump’s legal team, arguing the editing constituted commercial speech damaging to Trump’s businesses. Settlement talks, involving a Paramount offer of $15 million rejected by Trump, are ongoing, amidst threats of further lawsuits from Trump’s lawyers. The case’s complexities intersect with Paramount’s pending merger with Skydance Media, raising concerns among some senators despite assurances of separation from the lawsuit by the FCC.
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John Q. Hosedrinker