- Bell AI data centre in Saskatchewan to expand with over $50 billion investment
- Senate returns from recess to tackle legislative priorities before midterms
- US pilot rescued in 21-aircraft operation after being shot down over Iran
- Finland joins France’s nuclear initiative to enhance European security
- Sudan’s aid network faces collapse without immediate funding, warns UN agency
- Canada’s 2026 census participation rate reaches 98.4 per cent, says StatCan
- Justice Department charges nearly 80 defendants in COVID loan fraud cases
- Meghan Markle and Prince Harry featured in SNL UK sketch after UK move
USA News
The Senate returned to Washington on Monday, resuming work after a five-week recess. Key items include procedural votes on cryptocurrency legislation and the Protect College Sports Act, amid ongoing discussions about regulatory measures for artificial intelligence and potential action on the Farm bill and surveillance authority.
The Justice Department has announced a crackdown on COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program fraud, resulting in charges against over 160 defendants and approximately $245 million in intended losses. The initiative, dubbed “Heartland fraud surge,” involved 44 U.S. Attorney’s Offices and targeted fabricated businesses and identity theft schemes.
Jack Burkman and Jacob Wohl pitched their services to Ammon Covino, seeking $300,000 to secure a pardon for him. Covino, a convicted felon, had previously submitted a pardon request, which was rejected by Donald Trump. Their meeting was secretly recorded as part of a CBS News investigation into pardon brokers.
Senator Darline Graham of South Carolina is considering a run for her late brother Lindsey Graham’s Senate seat in the forthcoming Republican primary on August 11. Appointed to serve his remaining term, she seeks to leverage her brother’s connections while expressing confidence in her new role.
In a primetime address, President Trump claimed the U.S. election system is “catastrophically short,” while disputing the validity of the 2020 election. He urged lawmakers to pass the SAVE America Act amid criticism from Democrats. Released documents revealed no evidence of vote manipulation or machine hacking.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche met with accusers of Jeffrey Epstein at the Justice Department, following a request from Senator Thom Tillis. Blanche encouraged victims to provide information to the FBI, but faced criticism for his approach. The meeting’s conditions were seen as insufficient by attendees.
Republican Senator Thom Tillis has stated that Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche must meet with survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse before he will support Blanche’s nomination. This requirement was voiced during Blanche’s confirmation hearing, where issues regarding the mishandling of Epstein’s investigation documents were discussed.
Dena Karari, a U.S.-Iran dual citizen, has left Iran after being unable to exit since December 2024 due to allegations of espionage. Her attorney confirmed she is safe and en route back to the United States. No formal charges were ever filed against her.
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