In the hush money trial involving former President Donald Trump, the defense team has rested its case without calling Trump to testify. The prosecution will focus on proving Trump’s intention to conceal another crime and falsifying business records. The defense is expected to attack the credibility of the government’s star witness, Michael Cohen, and argue that hush money payments are not illegal. Key moments in the trial include a heated exchange between a defense witness and the prosecutor, as well as emotional testimony from Trump’s former aide, Hope Hicks.
Devastating tornadoes in Iowa have caused multiple deaths and significant damage to the town of Greenfield. The tornadoes were part of a severe weather outbreak that also affected other states. Meanwhile, three U.S. allies – Norway, Ireland, and Spain – have announced formal recognition of a Palestinian state, further isolating Israel diplomatically. This comes as the International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Israeli and Hamas leaders.
A new study has found that teenagers who use cannabis are at a higher risk of developing psychotic disorders. The research from the University of Toronto adds to previous evidence linking cannabis use to mental health issues, especially in adolescents. In a separate incident, a man from New Zealand was fined for attempting to “body slam” a killer whale near his boat, behavior that was deemed irresponsible and dangerous.
In politics, a GOP California Assemblyman won a special election to fill a vacant House seat, while Louisiana lawmakers passed a bill to add abortion-inducing medications to the list of controlled substances. President Biden announced federal student debt forgiveness for 160,000 borrowers. And in culture, the popularity of Western-themed apparel has surged following Beyoncé’s release of a noncountry country album, highlighting trends in the fashion and music industries.
As the trial heads into closing arguments and the aftermath of natural disasters and political conflicts unfolds, the news cycle continues to provide a mix of legal, environmental, and social developments. From courtroom drama to international diplomacy and scientific research, current events offer a diverse range of topics for public discussion and debate.
