Stories from United States

Justice Jackson challenged a Department of Homeland Security decision regarding race during court proceedings. The discussion involved whether the administration's position prevents the consideration of context regarding racial epithets.

Google has released an AI tool designed to assist meteorologists and emergency managers with flood predictions up to 24 hours in advance. The model focuses on rapid flooding caused by intense rainfall rather than traditional river forecasting. Google trained the model using millions of real-world flood reports. This release follows reports that Google is allowing the Pentagon to use its AI systems for classified work despite protest letters from hundreds of employees.

CISA released a joint guide focused on adapting Zero Trust principles to Operational Technology (OT) environments.

Washington DC officials plan to combine $46 million to expand the Youth Services Center and the New Beginnings Youth Development Center. Ward 5 Councilmember Zachary Parker expressed concern that construction might consume recreation space without addressing core facility issues.

A cow escaped from a trailer at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine's large animal clinic in Champaign this afternoon. Spokeswoman Andrea Darles stated the animal got loose around 3:30 PM while being unloaded. The incident occurred at the clinic's large animal facility. The animal was located in a trailer and is not expected to require additional treatment. A witness reported biking to the location and observing the animal being loaded up. Yamada stated there is currently no threat to the community or school. Blake High School has announced a delayed schedule for students tomorrow. Video footage captured the resulting chaos on campus. School and animal safety authorities are addressing the incident.

The shooter at Brown University killed an MIT professor in Brookline days after the university incident in December. The source noted the professor was killed shortly after the initial events. The shooter's actions in Brookline followed the December shooting at Brown University.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that a specific bill will not pass because it includes a ban on Central Bank digital currency. Fox News reported that the Senate will now have to rework the legislation and return it to the House. The decision follows discussions regarding the bill's provisions.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended his department's conduct of the war during a congressional hearing. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told Senator Tim Kaine that the 60-day timeline required by the War Powers Resolution of 1973 is currently on hold. The 1973 resolution requires a president to obtain Congressional authorization within 60 days of starting hostilities or withdraw troops. Defense Secretary Hexat argued during a Pentagon budget session that the war in Ukraine could continue without formal Congressional approval. He stated that the military operation period granted by the US Constitution has expired. Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal criticized the administration, stating the American people do not believe the war is a success. Critics highlighted the conflict's cost exceeding $25 billion and its impact on US gasoline prices.

A T-bone style collision occurred in Frederick between Interstate 85 (Buckeys Town Pike) and Route 355 (Urbana Pike). The crash occurred on wet roads during holiday driving conditions.

New York City reported 2,000 noise complaints through the municipal 311 hotline last year. Construction and emergency vehicle sirens are cited as primary sources of noise in Manhattan. Reported sources of noise include loud ghetto blasters, modified engines, and frequent car horns. Emergency vehicle sirens are also cited as a source of noise, particularly when stuck in traffic. The city continues to struggle with sleep disruption due to these factors. The report mentioned that these complaints are a constant occurrence in the metropolis. The reports are linked to ongoing construction, digging, and the use of jackhammers. Officials hope the data will allow for more effective intervention in loud neighborhoods. An ear specialist in Manhattan reported that many patients, including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and construction workers, suffer from these issues.