Morning Announcements

Today’s Headlines: In this episode, the Biden administration is considering sanctioning an Israeli military unit, Netzah Yehuda, known for its far-right ideology and comprised of ultra-Orthodox Jewish soldiers. This follows reports of the unit's reactivation after it was moved out of the West Bank due to convictions for torturing Palestinian detainees. Meanwhile, classified documents reveal Russia's plan to undermine the US and NATO through various means, including a water system hack in Texas. Defendant Donald's trial advances with opening statements and witness testimonies, while the Biden administration launches the American Climate Corps to train young people in green industries. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WSJ: Israel's Military Spy Chief Resigns Over Oct. 7 Hamas Attack BBC: US-Israel: Netanyahu vows to reject any US sanctions on army units WA Post: Secret Russian foreign policy document urges action to weaken the U.S. WA Post: Tex. hack may be first disruption of U.S. water system by Russia AP News: Trump trial: Highlights from opening statements and first witness testimony ACC: American Climate Corps Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The House of Representatives passed $95 billion in foreign aid packages for Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel, with $60 billion allocated for Ukraine, $26 billion for Israel, $8 billion for Taiwan, and $9 billion for humanitarian aid in Gaza and the West Bank. Additionally, they approved a measure allowing the sale of frozen assets of Russian oligarchs to fund aid for Ukraine, sanctions on Russia, China, and Iran, and a TikTok ban if not sold within 9 months. Israel conducted a retaliatory strike against Iran in Isfahan, damaging part of an air defense system, and intensified air raids on Rafah. Maine joined 16 states and Washington DC in the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. On Earth Day, alarming reports revealed that wildfire smoke contributes to thousands of deaths annually, while the Interior Department expanded protections in Alaskan wilderness and the EPA targeted hazardous "forever chemicals." Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CBS News: House approves aid bills for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan  BBC: Israel Iran attack: Damage seen at air base in Isfahan AP News: Israeli strikes on southern Gaza city of Rafah kill 22, mostly children, as US advances aid package AP News: Maine joins compact to elect the president by popular vote but it won't come into play this November NPR: Wildfire smoke contributes to thousands of deaths each year in the U.S. WA Post: For the first time, U.S. may force polluters to clean up these 'forever chemicals' NY Times: Biden Shields Millions of Acres of Alaskan Wilderness From Drilling and Mining Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Jury selection for Donald Trump's trial progressed swiftly, with 12 jurors seated and an alternate, though two were dismissed for reasons including anti-Trump social media posts. To safeguard juror anonymity, Judge Juan Merchan barred media from reporting juror details. Additionally, Trump's civil cases related to his January 6th election efforts faced rejection for delay by a federal judge. At the UN Security Council, the US vetoed a resolution for Palestine's full UN membership, citing preference for negotiations. Over 100 students were arrested at a pro-Palestinian protest at Columbia University, including Representative Ilhan Omar's daughter. Maine's legislature passed a significant gun safety bill, and the Kennedy family endorsed President Biden's reelection in Philadelphia, despite family member Robert F. Kennedy Jr. running as a spoiler candidate. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Judge in Trump case orders media not to report where potential jurors work AP News: 12 jurors have been picked for Donald Trump's hush money trial. Selection of alternates is ongoing NY Times: Judge Rejects Trump’s Effort to Delay Jan. 6 Civil Cases  Axios: U.S. vetoes Palestinian bid for full UN membership  NY Times: Over 100 Arrested at Columbia After Pro-Palestinian Protest  NPR: Maine lawmakers pass sweeping gun legislation following the Lewiston mass shooting NPR: The Kennedys endorse Biden, not their family member RFK Jr.  Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: In Congress, the impeachment trial of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas quickly adjourned after senators deemed the articles of impeachment unconstitutional, while whistleblowers from Boeing testified before a Senate subcommittee, criticizing the company's safety culture. In the House of Representatives, a resolution in support of Ukraine passed overwhelmingly, with notable opposition from Representatives Paul Gosar, Matt Rosendale, and Thomas Massie, the latter of whom cosponsored a motion to vacate Speaker Mike Johnson. Donald Trump's criminal trial saw no additional jurors selected, while reports surfaced of his meetings with foreign leaders and plans to dine with the president of Poland. Switzerland moved to ban Nazi and racist symbols, Democrats regained a majority in the Michigan State House of Representatives, and a "rain bomb" in the UAE and Oman highlighted climate change concerns. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NBC News: Highlights: Senate rejects impeachment articles against DHS Secretary Mayorkas AP News: Boeing put under Senate scrutiny during back-to-back hearings on aircraft maker's safety culture Rolling Stone: Thomas Massie, Long a Friend to Russia, Votes Against Resolution Supporting Ukraine  NY Times: Trump Holds Series of Meetings With Foreign Leaders AP News: Switzerland's lower house moves to ban use of Nazi and extremist symbols that could stir violence  AP News: Michigan Democrats win special elections to regain full control of state government Axios: Dubai's record-shattering "rain bomb" has clear climate change ties  Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Israel plans retaliation against Iran's strike, despite U.S. advisement against offensive action. The U.S. announces new sanctions on Iran's missile and drone program. In Donald Trump's criminal trial, seven jurors were selected, and he labeled it a "Biden-inspired witch hunt." The Supreme Court hears oral arguments on whether federal prosecutors overstepped authority in prosecuting January 6th rioters. Additionally, Speaker Mike Johnson faces increased pressure after another congressman agrees to cosponsor a motion to remove him from speakership. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Israel says it will retaliate against Iran, despite the risks Axios: U.S. to hit Iran with fresh sanctions after Israel attack NBC News: Trump trial updates: Defense argues juror bias from Facebook posts; unfit for hush money case jury AP News: Supreme Court questions obstruction charges brought against Jan. 6 rioters, Trump WA Post: Mike Johnson faces growing momentum to oust him as House speaker  Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Donald Trump's first criminal trial started with jury selection which is expected to last up to two weeks. Trump, present throughout, unsuccessfully sought to modify the trial schedule. Prosecutors are emphasizing election interference, supported by evidence linking "hush money" payments to the 2016 election. The judge allowed National Enquirer articles into evidence and scheduled a contempt hearing for Trump's breach of a gag order. Meanwhile, Speaker Mike Johnson plans separate funding bills for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, including a TikTok ban and aid provisions. In the Supreme Court, Idaho's ban on gender-affirming care for transgender teenagers was upheld, and a lawsuit against a Black Lives Matter activist advances. The FBI launched a criminal investigation into the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, and the Justice Department is preparing an antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WA Post: The Trump Trials: Day One is in the books. Here's some key takeaways. The Hill: Speaker Johnson unveils plan for Ukraine, Israel at closed-door GOP meeting NBC: Supreme Court allows enforcement of Idaho ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors PBS: Supreme Court allows lawsuit that free speech advocates warn will threaten right to protest WA Post: Federal criminal investigation opened into Key Bridge crash WSJ: Justice Department to File Antitrust Suit Against Live Nation Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned of retaliation against Israel following the attack on a consulate building in Syria. They seized an Israeli-affiliated cargo ship and launched approximately 350 strikes on Israel, mostly intercepted. President Biden reportedly deterred Israeli counterattack support. The IRGC declared the matter concluded. The Biden administration forgave $7.4 billion in student loans for 275,000 borrowers through the SAVE repayment plan. Loans under $12,000 will be canceled after 10 years, and balances forgiven after 20-25 years under the IDR adjustment. The IRS introduced a free tax filing feature as part of its Direct File Pilot program. Florida banned local heat and water break requirements for outdoor workers, and Arizona enacted the "Taylor Swift Act" against ticket bots. Over 150 cancer cases potentially linked to Poe Hall at North Carolina State University emerged due to hazardous materials. Donald Trump's first criminal trial for attempting to influence the 2016 election by paying off Stormy Daniels begins today. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Israeli military says 99% of drones and missiles launched by Iran were intercepted  WA Post: Biden administration cancels another $7.4 billion in student loans CNBC: IRS adds ‘important update’ for free Direct File pilot CBS Miami: Gov. DeSantis bans local governments from protecting workers from heat, limits police oversight boards 12 News KPNX: Arizona governor signs 'Taylor Swift' bill, setting restrictions on buying concert tickets USA Today: Campus building with PCBs linked to over 150 cancer cases at NC State, more tests coming Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: In Arizona, Republican lawmakers blocked a bill aimed at repealing the state's 1864 abortion ban, with one Republican briefly supporting the repeal before a colleague moved to adjourn, effectively stalling the vote. Meanwhile, the Biden administration announced a major gun control measure, closing the gun show loophole and requiring all gun dealers to obtain federal licenses and conduct background checks regardless of where they sell firearms. However, in Tennessee, the state senate advanced a bill allowing teachers to be armed in public schools, prompting outrage from gun control advocates and families of shooting victims. Additionally, OJ Simpson passed away after battling prostate cancer, just two months after claiming he was in good health. Finally, as if election year politics weren't enough, a double cicada year is upon us, with two broods of periodical cicadas emerging across the midwest, southeast, and Illinois, promising an onslaught of relentless buzzing. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: Arizona update, republicans blocked bill to repeal ban Reuters: Biden admin closed ‘gun show loophole and require more background checks’  MSNBC: GOP-led Tennessee Senate advances bill to arm teachers without informing parents People: OJ dead at 76 The Hill: Trump faces do-or-die moment with hush money trial CBS News: Periodical cicadas will emerge in 2024 Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: House Republicans, led by Matt Gaetz, sabotaged a procedural vote to start debate on the reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, citing concerns over an exclusionary amendment that Trump claimed would protect Americans but others argued would dismantle the program. By blocking the debate, any chance to advocate for the amendment was effectively quashed. Meanwhile, Kevin McCarthy hinted during an interview at Georgetown University that Gaetz's actions contributed to him losing the chance to become Speaker, referencing allegations of unethical behavior involving a 17-year-old. In other news, a shooting during a Ramadan event in West Philadelphia left three injured, including the 15-year-old suspect who was subsequently apprehended by police. Additionally, Donald Trump stated he wouldn't endorse a national abortion ban, while South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem faced backlash from Native American tribes for offensive comments, and the New York state director for RFK Jr’s campaign openly discussed diverting votes from Biden in favor of Trump. Sunday’s Women’s NCAA Basketball National Championship game became the most watched basketball game since 2019.  Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Hill: Group of Republicans blocks FISA bill with spy powers deadline looming Axios: McCarthy takes shot at Gaetz scandal when discussing his ouster CBS News: Shooting at Ramadan event in West Philadelphia leaves 3 injured, 5 in custody, police say The Hill: Trump says he wouldn’t sign a national abortion ban The Daily Beast: South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem Is Now Banished From 10 Percent of Her Own State Politico: RFK Jr. ballot access consultant promotes strategy to throw the election to Trump Forbes: NCAA Women's Basketball Championship Game Audience Peaked At 24 Million, Ending A Record-Breaking Tournament Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: ​​Arizona's Supreme Court upheld a near-total abortion ban, initially enacted in 1864, which makes nearly all abortion procedures illegal, without exceptions for rape or incest, to be enforced within 45 days. However, efforts to counteract this ban are already in motion, with plans to amend the state constitution directly on the November ballot to safeguard abortion rights, gathering significant support with over 500,000 signatures. In a separate development, concerns have been raised by Republican congressmen about the infiltration of Kremlin propaganda within their own party, highlighting the broader challenge of combating foreign influence and misinformation within the American political landscape. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) introduced new regulations targeting toxic pollution from over 200 chemical plants across the United States, aiming to reduce the risk of cancer for nearby communities. In court case updates, James and Jennifer Crumbley were sentenced to 10-15 years in prison for involuntary manslaughter charges related to their son Ethan Crumbley's mass shooting, where he killed four classmates and received a life sentence without parole while The European Court of Human Rights ruled in favor of over 2,000 Swiss women who sued the government for failing to address climate change adequately, potentially forcing Switzerland to reduce fossil fuel consumption and Donald Trump's attempt to sue Judge Juan Merchan to delay his campaign finance trial was denied. Finally, Cowboy Carter made Beyoncé the first Black woman to top Billboard's country albums chart since its inception in 1964. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NPR: The Arizona Supreme Court allows a near-total abortion ban to take effect soon NBC News: GOP Rep. Mike Turner: Russian propaganda is 'being uttered on the House floor' NY Times: To Cut Cancer Risks, E.P.A. Limits Pollution From Chemical Plants NBC News: Parents of Michigan school shooter Ethan Crumbley both sentenced to 10-15 years for involuntary manslaughter CNN: International court rules Switzerland violated human rights in landmark climate case brought by 2000 women Axios: Earth has its warmest March on record, beating 2023's milestone CNN: Appeals judge denies Trump’s request to delay start of hush money trial so he can challenge gag order AP News: Beyoncé becomes first Black woman to hit No. 1 on Billboard country albums chart Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: As the six-month mark since Hamas’s October 7th massacre passes, Israel announces the withdrawal of most army brigades from southern Gaza. The IDF completes operations in Khan Younis to regroup for a planned incursion into Rafah. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hints at an imminent invasion while mediators discuss potential ceasefires and hostage exchanges in Egypt. Meanwhile, President Biden unveiled a new student loan forgiveness initiative aimed at relieving interest burdens for around 25 million Americans. Additionally, the administration proposed debt forgiveness for 2 million borrowers who have been repaying loans for 20 or more years, as well as those who missed enrollment in federal programs. Alongside this, over $6 billion in funding was announced to mass-produce semiconductor chips domestically, with a significant investment from the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. In other news, Donald Trump expressed his stance on abortion being decided by states and is facing trial for campaign finance charges in Manhattan, attempting to delay proceedings. Elon Musk is under investigation in Brazil for allegedly enabling the spread of fake news and disinformation, facing accusations of obstructing court orders and incitement. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WA Post: Israel withdraws most troops from south at six-month mark of Gaza war AP News: Palestinians returning to Khan Younis after Israeli withdrawal find an unrecognizable city Politico: Biden’s next student debt relief plan will cover more than 30M borrowers Politico: Biden deploys $6.6B to boost global chipmaker in key swing state CBS News: Donald Trump says abortion should be left up to states, sidestepping calls to back federal restrictions NY Times: Appeals Court Denies Another Trump Attempt to Delay Trial AP News: Elon Musk will be investigated over fake news and obstruction in Brazil after a Supreme Court order Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: In response to a tense phone call between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu, Israel has taken action by opening the Erez border crossing for humanitarian aid and facilitating increased aid from Jordan, alongside addressing a communication breakdown regarding a strike on a humanitarian convoy. Meanwhile, the US economy surpassed expectations in March, with over 300,000 jobs added, steady unemployment rates, and rising hourly earnings, potentially affecting Federal Reserve interest rate decisions. Treasury Secretary Yellen's discussions with Chinese officials aimed to address economic challenges and competition, fostering ongoing bilateral talks and communication channels. In Nebraska, a legislative push for a winner-take-all electoral system failed, sparking broader conversations on electoral reforms. A Lancet study warns of a significant rise in prostate cancer diagnoses and deaths by 2040, despite advances in testing and treatment. Law enforcement investigates arson at Senator Sanders' office in Vermont and a sophisticated cash heist in Los Angeles, prompting FBI and police involvement. As millions witness a solar eclipse, cautionary reminders urge the use of proper eye protection. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WA Post Israel to open Gaza aid routes, including Erez border crossing CBS News: Employers added 303,000 jobs in March, surging past economic forecasts Axios: U.S., China agree to hold more talks about economic concerns The Hill: Nebraska lawmakers overwhelmingly reject Trump-backed ‘winner-take-all’ electoral system The Guardian: Prostate cancer cases worldwide likely to double by 2040, analysis finds NPR: A man was charged with setting a fire at Sen. Bernie Sanders' Vermont office Burglars steal $30 million in cash from a Los Angeles money storage facility – one of the city’s largest cash heists  The Guardian: What is the total solar eclipse and how can I watch it? Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure from multiple fronts, notably following a phone call with President Biden regarding the killing of seven humanitarian aid workers by Israeli airstrikes. Biden warned that continued US support hinges on immediate steps to protect civilians and aid workers, prompting expectations for Israel to announce actions within days. Meanwhile, calls for an independent investigation into the airstrike mount, casting doubt on Israel's military's impartiality. Additionally, Netanyahu grapples with domestic unrest and calls for new elections by a key member of his war cabinet. In other news, Donald Trump faces legal setbacks, with courts rejecting motions in cases related to election interference charges and mishandling classified documents. Furthermore, the New York Attorney General seeks information on the collateral for Trump's $175 million bond, adding to his legal woes. Lastly, the centrist political group No Labels abandons plans to field an independent candidate in the 2024 election after facing rejections from prominent politicians. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Biden tells Israel's Netanyahu future US support for war depends on new steps to protect civilians NBC News: World Central Kitchen aid worker's family calls for an independent probe into the deadly attack The Hill: Israel on high alert amid Iran threats NY Times: Biden Chides Netanyahu, Threatening to Pivot U.S. Policy NBC News: Georgia judge rejects Trump bid to dismiss election interference charges on free speech grounds NBC News: Judge denies Trump bid to dismiss classified documents case using Presidential Records Act Axios: N.Y. attorney general questions company providing Trump's $175 million bond NY Times: No Labels Abandons Effort to Field a Presidential Candidate  Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: In recent developments concerning Donald Trump, he made inflammatory remarks about immigrants during campaign speeches and launched a new website, BidenBloodBath.com, criticizing the Biden administration's border policies. Additionally, Trump filed a lawsuit against two co-founders of Trump Media, parent company of Truth Social, alleging stock forfeiture. Meanwhile, two brothers pleaded guilty to securities fraud for insider trading related to Truth Social's IPO. In Wisconsin, voters approved a constitutional amendment banning private funding for state elections, reacting to Mark Zuckerberg's donations in 2020. Lastly, a joint-study found that the diabetes drug Ozempic could be produced at a significantly lower cost than its current price, prompting scrutiny of pharmaceutical pricing practices. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: Trump Again Invokes ‘Blood Bath’ and Dehumanizes Migrants in Border Remarks AP News: Trump sues two Trump Media co-founders, seeking to void their stock in the company AP News: Two Florida men plead guilty to insider trading charges related to taking Trump media firm public AP News: Wisconsin voters approve ban on private money support for elections CNBC: Novo Nordisk's Ozempic can be made for less than $5 a month: study Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen, led by Chef José Andrés, were killed in Gaza by Israeli airstrikes after unloading over 100 tons of food. The incident, despite clear markings and prior notification to the IDF, has sparked global condemnation and raised concerns about the safety of humanitarian workers. Fallout includes potential setbacks to aid delivery efforts and suspension of operations by other organizations due to safety risks. The tragedy has also fueled protests in Israel, demanding Prime Minister Netanyahu's resignation. In other news, the Oklahoma state Supreme Court hears arguments on reparations for survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, while details emerge about a company providing a bond to Donald Trump to prevent asset seizure for a civil fraud penalty. Additionally, a California lawmaker introduces a "right to disconnect" bill, granting employees the right to ignore after-hours communication from employers, with penalties for excessive contact. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: What to know after Israeli strike kills World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza  AP News: Israel-Hamas war: Aid group halts delivery in Gaza after Israeli strike NY Times: Protest Outside Netanyahu's Jerusalem Home Turns Into 'Riot,' Police Say Newsweek: State Supreme Court to Decide Reparations CBS News: Who is Don Hankey, the billionaire whose insurance firm provided Trump a $175 million bond payment? ABC 7: California bill would give workers the right to ignore after-hours calls from bosses Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: In a flurry of international and domestic developments, tensions escalate in the Middle East as Iran's Revolutionary Guard reports Israeli airstrikes on the Iranian consulate in Syria, resulting in casualties, prompting Israel to heighten embassy security. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces plans to enact legislation allowing action against foreign media networks deemed national security threats, with Al Jazeera targeted specifically. In the US, Florida's Supreme Court rulings greenlight a 6-week abortion ban and pave the way for a ballot measure on abortion rights. Michigan becomes the final state to decriminalize paid surrogacy contracts, signaling progress in LGBTQ rights and reproductive freedom. Congressional dynamics shift, potentially impacting House Speaker Mike Johnson's tenure, while former President Donald Trump secures a $175 million bond to avoid contempt of court in a fraud case, yet faces an expanded gag order in another legal battle. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NPR: Iranian officials accuse Israel of a deadly attack on Iran's consulate in Syria Axios: Netanyahu to shutter Israeli Al Jazeera bureau after government passes new law WA Post: Florida Supreme Court allows one of nation’s strictest abortion bans to take effect CNN: Michigan governor signs act to decriminalize paid surrogacy contracts  Axios: Mike Johnson ouster over Ukraine "possible," House Republican says NY Times: Trump Gets Bond Deal to Ward Off $454 Million Judgment, for Now NBC News: Judge expands partial gag order after Trump's attacks on his daughter in hush money case Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Over the weekend, thousands of Israelis protested Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, demanding a new election, amidst ongoing ceasefire negotiations and Netanyahu's recent hernia surgery. Meanwhile, fallout from a recent bridge collapse in Baltimore is estimated to halt operations at the Port of Baltimore for approximately five months, causing significant regional economic strain, although the federal government has pledged $60 million for rebuilding efforts. Additionally, AT&T announced an investigation into a data breach affecting over 70 million customers, with varying degrees of personal information compromised. Lastly, California's new law has gone into effect, raising the minimum wage for most fast food workers to $20 per hour, marking a significant pay increase for many. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: Thousands Protest in Israel, Calling For Early Elections WA Post: Baltimore braces for economic hit amid fears port shuttered for months  NPR: Millions of customers' data found on dark web in latest AT&T data breach AP News: New $20 minimum wage for fast food workers in California is set to start Monday Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The International Court of Justice orders Israel to ensure unhindered humanitarian aid access to Gaza, as the UN warns of impending famine, despite Israeli officials denying any restrictions. Meanwhile, in Georgia, the vice chairman of the Republican Party, Brian Pritchard, is found to have illegally voted nine times and is penalized with a $5000 fine. In South Carolina, a federal court mandates the use of an unconstitutional and discriminatory electoral map for upcoming congressional elections due to time constraints, affecting the 1st district currently held by Representative Nancy Mace. Donald Trump's legal battle in Atlanta revolves around arguing for dismissal of his election interference case, as new reports reveal over $100 million diverted from campaign funds to cover legal fees since leaving office. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee rolls back police reform legislation in Memphis, while the US Office of Management and Budget announces updated racial and ethnic categorization methods for federal forms. Finally, FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried is sentenced to 25 years in prison for securities fraud conspiracy, with concerns raised about his potential future actions. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: International court orders Israel to do more to prevent famine in Gaza WA Post: GOP official who claimed 2020 election was stolen voted illegally 9 times, judge rules  AP News: South Carolina to hold 2024 congressional elections with map previously ruled unconstitutional The Guardian: Trump cases: lawyer argues to dismiss Georgia election subversion case; progressive groups call for ‘fair’ hush money trial NY Times: How Trump Moved Money to Pay $100 Million in Legal Bills WPLN News: Tennessee rolls back police reform passed after the death of Tyre Nichols  AP News: US changes how it categorizes people by race and ethnicity. It's the first revision in 27 years CNBC: FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried sentenced to 25 years for crypto fraud, pay $11 billion in forfeiture Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: In a rapid turnaround from earlier decisions, Israel announces its return to hostage and ceasefire negotiations, sending two officials to Washington DC next week. Discussions are centered on Israel's potential operation in Rafah, yet to materialize at the scale promised by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Amidst the royal drama surrounding Kate Middleton's cancer diagnosis, cybersecurity experts reveal a coordinated disinformation campaign linked to a Russian group, highlighting the manipulation of online discourse. Democratic candidate Marilyn Lands secures a significant victory in Alabama's conservative Madison county, flipping a historically Republican-held seat with a platform focused on protecting abortion rights and IVF. Donald Trump's Truth Social app goes public on the Nasdaq despite financial losses, and he breaches a gag order in his criminal trial by making false claims about the overseeing judge's daughter. Lastly, the Republican National Committee undergoes predictable changes under the Trump family regime, including questioning job applicants about beliefs regarding the 2020 election and relocating to Palm Beach proximity to Mar-a-Lago, reminiscent of Trump's past loyalty concerns within his administration. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: In reversal, Netanyahu sending delegation to White House for Rafah talks BBC: Kate rumours linked to Russian disinformation NBC News: Democrat wins Alabama special election in early test for IVF as a campaign issue The Guardian: How can Donald Trump’s loss-making Truth Social be worth $9bn? | IPOs AP News: Donald Trump assails judge and his daughter after gag order in New York hush-money criminal case WA Post: Was the 2020 election stolen? Job interviews at RNC take an unusual turn Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Top news today is a mix of tragedy and controversy. The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed after a cargo ship crashed into it, leaving 6 people missing and presumed dead. Rebuilding the bridge will take years. On another front, the Supreme Court heard arguments in a case that could limit access to medication abortion. In other news, a judge placed a limited gag order on Donald Trump in his criminal trial, while Trump himself has begun selling bibles. Ronna McDaniel was fired from her new role as an NBC News contributor after facing backlash from colleagues. Internationally, Israel pulled its negotiators from peace talks with Hamas, and Florida passed a law restricting social media use for minors. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Baltimore Key Bridge collapses after ship collision  NBC News: Supreme Court signals it is likely to reject a challenge to abortion pill access The Guardian: The next Clarence Thomas? Abortion pill case spotlights rightwing judge and his wife’s shadowy connections WA Post: Trump placed under limited gag order ahead of N.Y. hush money trial Axios: "We must make America pray again:" Trump now selling Bibles Axios: Ronna McDaniel out at NBC News following backlash Axios: Gaza hostage talks deadlock and spark U.S.-Israel blame game  AP News: Florida's DeSantis signs one of the country's most restrictive social media bans for minors Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices