AP News Summary at 7:27 a.m. EST
The Biden administration has been granted a one-week delay from a federal appeals court to impose new rules regarding asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border. The Department of Homeland Security is planning to publish its final rule on Monday.
In California, wildfires are posing a significant threat. An evacuation order has been issued for communities around the Lost Lake Fire. Officials have reported that thousands of homes are under threat, with at least 10,000 acres already burned. The fast-moving blaze has led to the closure of Highway 190, which runs through Sequoia National Park. Another major blaze, known as the Oak Fire, is burning near Yosemite National Park and has prompted evacuation orders. However, there is good news as the Mosquito Fire near Sacramento has seen progress, allowing firefighters to begin containing the blaze.
President Biden has delivered a prime-time speech on democracy and American identity. During the speech, Biden highlighted the threats to US democracy posed by political extremism. His speech was a forceful rebuke of MAGA Republicans and an appeal to moderate voters.
Meanwhile, Republican leaders have slammed the White House for its approach to crime. Republicans are urging the Biden administration to take stronger actions against lawlessness and emphasize support for police officers. The US government has warned of Russian efforts to interfere in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. While acknowledging a shift in tactics compared to past interference, officials remain concerned. They are raising the alarm about the threat of Russian interference.
The House select committee investigating the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol will hold its final public hearing today. The focus of the hearing will be on the role played by former President Donald Trump.
In international news, Ukraine has been granted a 120-day extension to pay its $1.24 billion debt owed to Russian bondholders. This comes as Kyiv faces ongoing fighting with Moscow’s forces.
And in the world of entertainment, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” has achieved another milestone, becoming the second-highest-grossing animated movie ever at the box office. The animated superhero flick now sits behind “Frozen II” and ahead of “The Lion King.”
These are just some of the top headlines this morning. Stay tuned for more updates throughout the day.
