Lori Chavez-DeRemer has been confirmed by the US Senate as the labour secretary in the Trump administration, with responsibilities including enforcing worker protections and overseeing workplace regulations. Supported by major unions, her nomination was approved with bipartisan support. Concerns exist about her independence from Trump's administration, which has seen numerous terminations of federal employees.
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The White House website saw significant changes after President Trump's team took over, leading to the removal of pages about the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and historical presidents. The administration attributed these absences to ongoing development and editing during the transition and committed to restoring the content, including a Spanish translation section.
Pope Francis remains in a stable condition as he recovers from double pneumonia, continuing to receive high flow supplemental oxygen. His prognosis is still guarded, but recent signs of improvement, including attending Mass and receiving visitors, suggest he is on a path to recovery.
A South Korean family has gone missing during their road trip from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas. Authorities, following a detected phone signal near a major interstate accident, have conducted extensive but unsuccessful searches. The consulate general is collaborating with local police to expedite the search.
Finland has been named the world's happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, according to the 2025 World Happiness Report. Nordic countries dominate the top positions, with Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden following closely. Meanwhile, the United States slipped to its lowest ranking at No. 24, amidst growing concerns over declining happiness in parts of Europe and North America.
USAID's future is uncertain after being placed under the direction of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, sparking concerns among aid organizations and Democrats. The agency, known for its swift global humanitarian responses, faces potential dissolution amid Republican criticism and budget cuts initiated by Elon Musk's task force.
Amidst the Trump administration's strict policies on international students, a Georgia court ruled in favor of 133 students, mostly Indians, whose SEVIS records were terminated by ICE. The lawsuit, filed by the ACLU, alleged that ICE unlawfully terminated the records, potentially leading to deportation for minor violations, impacting their studies and work programs.
Former Navy SEAL Robert O’Neill, who killed Osama bin Laden, is launching a marijuana brand, Operator Canna Co., aimed at helping veterans with PTSD. O’Neill believes cannabis can aid in managing stress and anxiety, offering a safer alternative to alcohol and prescription drugs. Sales will support disabled veterans, law enforcement, and first responders.
In Florida, a man named Jordan Wilson was apprehended by Jacksonville Sheriff's officers on horseback after allegedly dealing illegal drugs. Despite trying to escape on foot, he was outpaced and surrendered. Wilson was charged with resisting without violence and later released. The mounted unit highlighted their effective crime-fighting efforts on social media.
Devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County have claimed 16 lives and damaged over 12,000 structures. The Palisades and Eaton Fires are the most severe, with widespread evacuations and disruptions. Search and rescue efforts continue, with significant support from volunteers. Officials highlight health hazards and urge caution. Governor Newsom calls for unity in addressing the disaster.
US President Donald Trump dismissed General Charles Q Brown Jr as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, appointing retired General Dan Caine as his successor. Trump's decision followed their previous encounter in Iraq, where Caine demonstrated effective military leadership against ISIS.