A resignation letter from Miss USA criticizes the leader of the pageant organization, citing a failure to address a sexual harassment claim and creating a toxic workplace. Noelia Voigt accused the pageant’s CEO of dismissing concerns about sexual harassment and badmouthing her. This comes after several former members of the Miss USA organization have spoken out, including Claudia Michelle who observed Voigt’s mental health decline. Miss Teen USA also resigned, stating that her personal values no longer align with the organization’s direction.
Former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial continues, with his ex-executive assistant testifying for his defense. The trial includes testimony from adult film star Stormy Daniels, whose credibility is being challenged by Trump’s lawyer. Despite Trump’s team’s demands for a mistrial and loosening the gag order, the judge denied their requests. The trial also includes testimony from Madeleine Westerhout, Trump’s former executive assistant in the White House, who described Trump as a good boss and detailed his micromanagement of financial affairs.
In Virginia, a school board voted to restore the names of Confederate leaders to two public schools, reversing a 2020 decision to remove them. Mountain View High School will revert to Stonewall Jackson High School, and Honey Run Elementary School will go back to Ashby-Lee Elementary School, named for Confederate leaders. The current board members argued that the 2020 decision was made hastily without proper community input, despite opposition from community members at the meeting.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vows that Israel can fight alone after the US threatens to suspend arms shipments over a potential full-scale invasion in Rafah. Netanyahu asserts that Israel will stand alone in pursuing its goal of eliminating Hamas, with or without US support. The relationship between the two allies is strained as talks for a cease-fire in Gaza stall, triggering criticism from Democratic lawmakers and voters.
Bodycam footage was released showing a Florida sheriff’s deputy fatally shooting a 23-year-old Air Force airman at his off-base apartment. The video has been released after the family alleged that the deputy entered the wrong apartment and shot the airman. The authorities maintain that the deputy properly identified himself and did not enter the wrong apartment. The release of the video follows allegations of excessive force in the shooting.
The Eurovision finals are approaching, with 26 countries competing for the top prize in the singing competition. Favorites to win include Croatia, Switzerland, and Ireland, with controversy surrounding Israel’s participation amidst conflict in Gaza. Eurovision is known for its extravagant performances and diverse music styles. Federal regulators are considering new rules around credit card rewards, and a federal appeals court rejected Hunter Biden’s efforts to dismiss his gun case in Delaware. Additionally, the push to expand fertility care within the military is explored, highlighting challenges faced by veterans and service members seeking fertility treatments.
