Americas / The Economic Times
Marking 80 years since its charter signing, the UN has witnessed pivotal moments, from its first collective security effort in the Korean War to addressing global crises like the Haiti earthquake. Notable events include Khrushchev's Cold War outburst, Arafat's UN address, and Gadhafi's charter destruction.
New York City Democrats are poised to select their mayoral nominee, choosing between Andrew Cuomo, seeking a comeback after his resignation, and progressive Zohran Mamdani. The primary, complicated by ranked-choice voting, reflects the party's ideological divisions. The winner will face incumbent Eric Adams, running as an independent, and Republican Curtis Sliwa in the general election.
Vance Luther Boelter, accused of assassinating a top Minnesota Democrat and her husband, held deeply conservative views. He impersonated a police officer in the shooting of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband. Boelter's background includes religious involvement, security work, and a brief stint in politics, with signs of financial struggles preceding the attacks.
Michael Madigan, the former Illinois House Speaker, faces sentencing Friday after being convicted on bribery, conspiracy, and wire fraud charges. Prosecutors seek a 12 1/2-year prison term for Madigan's role in a scheme that exchanged legislative favors for personal gain.
In Concordia Parish, Louisiana, stark racial disparities persist between schools despite a decades-old desegregation order. The Justice Department's plan to lift these orders faces opposition from civil rights groups who argue they are crucial for addressing inequalities. While some see the orders as outdated burdens, others fear that ending them will exacerbate existing racial imbalances in education and resources.
President Trump's intention to lift Syrian sanctions has sparked internal debate regarding the pace and conditions. The administration is weighing a swift removal against a phased approach tied to demands like dismantling militant groups and normalizing relations with Israel.
US President Trump has a penchant for floating attention-grabbing ideas, ranging from acquiring a new Air Force One from Qatar to annexing Greenland. While some proposals, like the Panama Canal deal, found a resolution, others, such as touring Fort Knox, have faded away. He continues to discuss making Canada the 51st state and selling gold cards for U.S.
Severe storms are expected across the central U.S. following deadly tornadoes in Kentucky and Missouri, which claimed dozens of lives. The National Weather Service warns of hazardous weather, including thunderstorms, hail, and heavy snow in the West. Kentucky and Missouri are still recovering from Friday's tornadoes, with residents salvaging belongings amidst widespread destruction.
President Trump's proposed budget cuts threaten the Integrated Ocean Observing System, jeopardizing real-time maritime data crucial for navigation, tsunami warnings, and hurricane predictions. Harbor pilots and scientists warn that eliminating federal funding for regional networks could severely impact safety and environmental monitoring. The system, vital for various sectors, faces an uncertain future, potentially disrupting established partnerships and data accessibility.
Around 3,000 union workers went on strike at Pratt and Whitney in Connecticut. The strike began due to failed contract talks. Wages, retirement benefits, and job security are key issues. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers is leading the strike. The company claims its offer is competitive. Pratt and Whitney has contingency plans to maintain operations.
A federal judge has permanently blocked a White House executive order targeting Perkins Coie, deeming it unconstitutional retaliation. Judge Beryl Howell's ruling halts enforcement and requires the Trump administration to nullify the order, which was seen as punishment for the firm's representation of Democratic causes and perceived opposition to the president.
The resurgence of electricity demand, driven by Big Tech's AI and cloud computing needs, is breathing new life into previously struggling coal-fired power plants. These plants, slated for retirement, possess valuable high-voltage grid connections, attracting interest from tech companies and investors.
A strange device was found at the General Services Administration headquarters. It was linked to Elon Musk's Starlink network. This discovery raised concerns about data protection laws. People connected to Musk hold key positions at GSA. They are working to cut costs and downsize the government's real estate. The agency is selling properties and cutting contracts.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell indicated a patient approach to interest rate adjustments, awaiting clarity on the economic impact of the Trump administration's policies, including tariffs. While acknowledging the potential for higher inflation and slower growth due to these policies, the Fed is unlikely to intervene unless significant market malfunctions occur.
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a lawsuit against President Trump's tariff authority, citing economic chaos for families and businesses. The suit challenges Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, arguing congressional approval is needed. Newsom highlights inflated costs and billions in damages to California's economy, particularly impacting its agricultural sector.
U.S. consumers are rushing to buy big-ticket items before new tariffs take effect, increasing prices on imports from countries like Taiwan and Mexico. John Gutierrez and Rob Blackwell secured purchases of a laptop and car, respectively, to avoid the impact of these tariffs. Economists warn of potential price spikes and weakened economic growth, urging prompt action on necessary purchases.
At least half of U.S. states, including New Mexico and Alabama, introduced laws this year to ban Glock switches, which convert pistols into machine guns. These efforts respond to the rising use of these devices, driven partly by 3D printing, while gun control and gun rights advocates debate the impact.