- Israeli forces fired on Palestinians seeking aid in Gaza, killing at least 10 people near distribution sites and 19 more at a crossing, as hunger and violence persist despite international efforts to deliver food. Witnesses and health workers report that the situation remains dire, with aid deliveries falling far short of needs and some dying from malnutrition.
- President Donald Trump's economic policies are drawing scrutiny as job growth slows, inflation rises, and his tariff strategy disrupts global trade. The administration faces criticism for economic warning signs and for firing officials who deliver unfavorable data, while the effects of tariffs ripple through both small and large economies.
- Republicans in Texas are moving to redraw congressional districts, potentially gaining several new seats, while Democrats find themselves limited by their own embrace of independent redistricting commissions. This could impact the balance of power in the House ahead of next year's elections.
- Florida has set a new record for executions under Governor Ron DeSantis, contributing to a national rise in the death penalty's use. The number of executions is expected to continue climbing, with several more scheduled this year.
- Pope Leo XIV addressed hundreds of thousands of young Catholics at a major Holy Year festival in Rome, urging them to make courageous choices and announcing the deaths of two young pilgrims. The event drew participants from around the world and highlighted the Pope's connection with youth.
- Smoke from Canadian wildfires has brought unhealthy air to much of the Midwest, prompting air quality alerts across several states. Cities like Minneapolis have recorded some of the worst air pollution globally, with conditions expected to persist.
- Rural students in places like western New York are increasingly opting out of college despite high graduation rates, choosing local jobs or other paths instead. Efforts to boost college enrollment face challenges as students weigh immediate work opportunities.
- Millions of student loan borrowers may soon face wage garnishment as defaults rise following the end of pandemic-era payment pauses. Credit scores are being affected, and many borrowers are at risk of having a portion of their pay seized to repay debt.
- Rain suspended the historic Major League Baseball Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway, delaying the first regular-season game in Tennessee. The game will resume Sunday, after fans endured lengthy delays and a unique blend of baseball and motorsports festivities.
image sourced from original article at https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-14966151/AP-News-Brief-12-04-m-EDT.htmlOriginal article source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-14966151/AP-News-Brief-12-04-m-EDT.html
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