All USA
- Pelosi in Taiwan: Stress test for the Biden-Xi relationship
Even amid mounting tensions, analysts say Presidents Biden and Xi both appreciate the need for calm and dialogue.
- Zawahri death marks end of an era – in more ways than one
Everyone involved in the 9/11 attacks has now been captured or killed. And for many Americans, the threat of terrorism has receded – replaced by other issues.
- FocusNew path for those recovering from addiction: Training to be peer advocates
Those who have battled addiction now have another avenue for renewal: a chance to both go to school and have a meaningful career supporting others with sobriety.
- FocusWith Roe gone, Planned Parenthood charts a new path
Planned Parenthood is synonymous with reproductive rights. Post-Roe, the organization is looking to a long-term strategy that combines persistence with abortion access, courts, and ballot boxes.
- First LookSamuel Sandoval, Navajo Code Talker, remembered for love of homeland
Samuel Sandoval, who died this week, was one of the last Navajo Code Talkers. The code, based on the Navajo language, stumped Japanese military cryptologists and helped the United States ultimately win the war. He also helped expand the Navajo alphabet.
- First LookJan. 6 rioter gets 7 years, longest prison sentence yet by far
A Jan. 6 rioter who brought a gun to the Capitol and vowed to personally drag House Speaker Nancy Pelosi out of it has been sentenced to seven years in prison. That’s by far the longest penalty handed down so far to anyone who took part in the attack.
- From an unlikely WWII-era friendship, plans for strengthening democracy
Amid increased polarization and growing fears about the fragility of American democracy, national divisions can feel insurmountable. Here’s a serious effort to cultivate respect through the lessons of history and the example of a remarkable bipartisan power duo.
- Can abortion be a question of religious liberty? These faiths say yes.
Do abortion bans impose one theology’s view on when life begins? Rabbis and others are suing, saying new bans impinge on the free exercise of religion when it comes to protecting women.
- First LookShrinking enrollment in big cities may force public schools shut
Across the U.S., urban public schools are relying on COVID relief money to keep schools open, prioritizing stability for students and their families. But, as homeschooling gains popularity and federal funds dry up, the funds may not be enough to keep some schools open.
- First LookAt a flooded Kentucky cultural center, resilience is part of the story
Appalshop, an Appalachia cultural center in southeastern Kentucky, is cleaning up after record-breaking floods. Despite substantial damage and losses, museum directors say it’s their responsibility to move forward and chronicle the flooding for future generations.
- First LookDOJ defends minority homebuyers in Philadelphia from discrimination
The Department of Justice says that a Warren Buffett-owned company avoided offering mortgages in certain areas, blocking African Americans and other minorities from obtaining housing. Now, following a legal settlement, the company will have to make it right.
- First LookChild care funding: States boost aid as congressional effort stalls
States are trying a variety of strategies to help parents pay for child care and, in some cases, to boost pay for child care workers.
- First LookBill Russell: An NBA champion and pioneer committed to principle
Bill Russell was the first Black NBA coach, redefined the role of defense, holds the record for the most NBA championships, and marched for civil rights with Martin Luther King Jr.
- First LookWhy major flooding won't drive eastern Kentucky families away
Heavy rains have produced severe flooding in eastern Kentucky, leaving some 26 people dead. But many say they'll stay because they have deep connections with people that have sustained them through good times and bad.
- Attorney general’s dilemma: Whether to indict a former president
The decision whether to prosecute a former president comes fraught with risk. Not prosecuting could signal that a president is indeed above the law. But a case could feed distrust and establish a dangerous precedent.
- Before the broncos buck, heads bow at cowboy church
At Cheyenne Frontier Days, cowboy church offers an hour of grace before the games begin. Held in a rodeo arena, the service reflects an open attitude: Come as you are and find respect.
- First LookPenalties for Floyd ex-cops bring hard questions about responsibility
George Floyd’s family members and activists are frustrated over sentences for the ex-cops who took part in Mr. Floyd’s arrest that are shorter than federal guidelines recommend. Yet, a legal expert says even this level of legal responsibility is “groundbreaking.”
- Out of bounds? Why Ohio’s redistricting fight matters.
Among states where redistricting reform efforts have gone awry, Ohio shows the limits of state courts to address a stalemate and how running out the clock can pay off.
- First LookCooperation in Congress: Surprise deal promises $739 billion bill
Sen. Joe Manchin and Democratic leaders in the Senate have finally found a compromise on major legislation. Senator Manchin announced on July 27 that he would back a $739 billion bill that could net Democrats a victory ahead of the midterms.
- First LookJudge in Capitol riot case gives 63-month sentence, ties longest yet
A Jan. 6 rioter, who violently attacked police officers, has received a prison sentence of more than 5 years. He is one of more than 200 rioters sentenced so far, as legal consequences continue to pile up even as the congressional Jan. 6 inquiry winds down.