DHS officers raised concerns over potentially illegal searches of state voter databases and the reliability of the data they were instructed to use to investigate suspected non-citizen voters, according to an anonymous whistleblower. The investigation has reportedly turned up only a handful of noncitizen voting cases despite the significant effort, and there are fears that accessing state voter information could violate laws, leading to "thousands or tens of thousands" of records being created against California residents in the DHS database. The whistleblower emphasized the lack of transparency regarding the data's origins and accuracy, noting discrepancies in voter registration information provided by DHS.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are undergoing a security review by the royal and VIP executive committee (Ravec) following their return to the UK as full-time residents. This review includes a new risk assessment for both Harry and Meghan and requires them to provide details about their daily routines, including school drop-offs, to assess their security needs. Last year, Harry lost a legal challenge to regain automatic tax-funded security, which was withdrawn when they stepped down as working royals.
Senator Mitch McConnell returned to the Senate on September 14, 2026, after more than 90 days of medical absence due to a fall and illness, during which he was hospitalized in June. He expressed that his recovery was frustrating and that he is not yet at 100%, but he is committed to participating in key Senate votes while continuing physical therapy. McConnell's latest absence fueled speculation about his health, following previous incidents including a 2023 episode where he froze and was unable to speak for nearly 30 seconds.
Scientists have discovered that Earth may contain a vast reservoir of water located up to 1,800 miles beneath the surface, potentially reshaping our understanding of geological processes. This water, believed to be trapped in minerals, could provide insights into the planet's water cycle and its formation. The findings suggest that there may be a significant amount of water, previously thought to be scarce at such depths, influencing both volcanic activity and the movements of tectonic plates.
A federal whistleblower alleges that agents from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may have violated state laws while conducting a voter fraud investigation, specifically through the Unlawful Voter Initiative. The initiative reportedly required agents to falsely represent themselves to access individual voter records, and whistleblower guidance from DHS indicated that thousands of such state law violations may have occurred as agents were pushed to review at least five subjects per hour. Concerns raised by U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Chuck Schumer highlight the possibility that relying on unreliable data could disenfranchise eligible voters ahead of the November elections.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the scrapping of pollution limits from coal and gas power plants, claiming it would save $310 billion and lower energy prices, while environmental groups warn of negative impacts on health and the environment. The regulations, which were intended to reduce carbon emissions and prevent 4,500 premature deaths annually, were deemed as exceeding the agency's authority by the EPA, which stated that control technologies required were impractical, effectively forcing plants to shut down. With the power sector contributing approximately 1.5 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions yearly, the announcement could significantly affect US emissions, although the precise outcomes remain uncertain amid ongoing legal challenges.
The rapid development of artificial intelligence is raising significant concerns among industry executives and staff, highlighted by Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei's call for a slowdown and increased monitoring of AI development. In Washington DC, public opinion reflects alarm over the pace at which this technology is advancing. The article suggests a growing demand for regulations to address the potential risks that AI poses to humanity.
A group of landowners, ranchers, businesses, and a non-profit have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to halt the construction of a border wall in Texas's Big Bend region, asserting that officials were unprepared for local pushback. The lawsuit, initiated by Conserve Big Bend and six landowners, challenges the characterization of the Big Bend area as a site of high illegal entry, citing that it spans about 805 km (500 miles) yet accounts for only 1 percent of arrests along the entire 3,219 km (2,000-mile) border. The Trump administration is engaging in a $46 billion effort to build various border structures, which has prompted significant legal and bipartisan resistance due to environmental and cultural concerns.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is repealing emission limits for coal and gas power plants, which is expected to eliminate over $300 billion in costs for power plants and allow utilities more flexibility in decision-making. This change follows a series of environmental rollbacks since President Trump took office in 2025, including the revocation of a 2009 scientific finding that linked greenhouse gases to public health threats. Environmental groups are expected to challenge these rollbacks in court, arguing they will lead to increased health risks and environmental degradation for Americans.
Bob Mackie, the iconic fashion designer known as the "Sultan of Sequins," passed away at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy marked by a Tony Award, nine Emmys, and three Oscar nominations. He became famous for his extravagant designs, notably Cher's 1986 Oscars "revenge" outfit featuring a plumed mohawk headdress, and also created memorable outfits for other stars like Elton John and Dolly Parton. Mackie continued to design until recently, with his creations worn by celebrities such as Sabrina Carpenter and Miley Cyrus, reflecting his significant impact on Hollywood fashion.
The United States has barred Iran's nuclear chief, Mohammad Eslami, from attending the annual General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, following the UN Security Council's refusal to lift "snapback" sanctions. Eslami's visa, which was initially approved, was revoked by Austria under pressure from the US, preventing his entry and participation as a member state. The sanctions include travel bans and various restrictions on Iran's nuclear and missile activities, and Iran's ambassador to the IAEA labeled the visa denial as a violation of Iran's rights and a politically motivated act.
Israeli officials have condemned the documentary "Naza," which alleges that civilian deaths were intentionally included in targeting decisions during the military's operations in Gaza, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling it a "shocking" film that contributes to global anti-Semitic sentiments. The film, directed by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, won the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival and received a 25-minute standing ovation; it includes interviews with military and intelligence members revealing that civilian casualties were factored into military decisions. Furthermore, Gaza health authorities report that over 73,700 Palestinians have been killed due to the conflict, predominantly civilians, prompting Israeli military leaders to consider legal actions against the filmmakers and investigate the sources of the documentary.
Video assistant referee (VAR) Matt Donohue, who allowed Erling Haaland's winning goal in Manchester City's 1-0 victory over Manchester United, along with assistant VAR Blake Antrobus, has not been selected for any upcoming Premier League fixtures after the refereeing body acknowledged a mistake in the decision. The error occurred when Haaland's goal was initially ruled offside but was later confirmed as valid despite the offside position of teammate Enzo Fernandez. Following the defeat, Manchester United sits 13th in the league and will face Brighton in the League Cup, while Manchester City, level on points with Arsenal, will play Norwich City in the cup before hosting Sunderland in the league.
Yemen is at risk of descending into another civil war as the Houthis strengthen their control over key islands in the Red Sea, crucial for global shipping routes. The recent fighting has unraveled a ceasefire that had mostly held since 2022, exacerbated by disruptions in maritime traffic due to the ongoing Iran war. This escalating conflict is particularly significant as it affects the strategic landscape of the region, with implications for stability in both Yemen and surrounding areas.
Multicultural affairs minister Anne Aly stated that the Labor government aims to reduce immigration numbers in a "manageable way" while keeping the system fair and responsive to Australia's needs. She challenged the narrative that immigrants negatively affect social cohesion, reflecting on her own experiences in a diverse Australia where language differences were accepted. Aly emphasized that multiculturalism is integral to Australian identity and should not be viewed as a burden on society.
The Houthis have made military gains along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, raising questions about their potential for economic benefits despite being restricted by international sanctions as an unrecognized governing body. They have developed a centralized financial system that generates approximately $2.5 billion annually from various sources, including $800 million from taxes and customs, and have revoked licenses for 4,225 commercial agencies to potentially replace them with groups affiliated with the Houthis. Their commercial focus has shifted towards sectors with high revenue potential, with 26% of commercial records in general trade and imports, and 18% in food commodities, indicating a deliberate restructuring of the private sector to consolidate economic power.
Billionaire Robert Kraft has confirmed that rapper Macklemore is barred from performing at Gillette Stadium on September 25 and 26 due to what Kraft termed Macklemore's "antisemitic rhetoric and imagery." The decision came after Macklemore faced backlash for expressing support for Palestine during recent performances, leading to his removal from Ed Sheeran’s tour, as venue promoters indicated they would not host concerts with him in the lineup, impacting hundreds of thousands of fans. Macklemore alleged that Kraft pressured other stadium owners to exclude him, while Kraft stated that the advocacy for Palestine should not undermine the concerns of the Jewish community or obscure the actions of Hamas.
The Trump administration has altered the method of counting measles deaths amidst a Pennsylvania outbreak, where three deaths have been reported, including a newborn and a six-week-old infant. The CDC is now relying on data from the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) for tracking mortality trends, which Debra Houry, a former CDC chief medical officer, criticized as inappropriate for confirming individual cases. As of Friday, Pennsylvania had reported 676 confirmed measles cases, with local officials believing that actual numbers are likely higher due to underreporting.
The Trump administration's EPA has repealed greenhouse gas emissions limits on fossil fuel-fired power plants, marking the largest deregulatory action in the U.S. power sector's history, according to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. The reversal of regulations initiated under Biden, which required significant reductions in carbon dioxide emissions starting in the 2030s, is expected to lead to increased pollutants impacting public health, as highlighted by environmental groups. Additionally, Zeldin announced plans to rescind all remaining greenhouse gas emissions standards for power plants, amidst warnings that such moves could hinder future climate action efforts.
A leading Israeli human rights organization claims that Israel is rapidly dismantling all aspects of Palestinian life, accusing it of employing mechanisms that amount to "ethnic cleansing" in the West Bank. The group's extensive documentation highlights the systematic approach taken by Israel to remove Palestinians from their land. The report underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation faced by the Palestinian population.
A road accident on the N1 highway in South Africa killed 21 people, involving two Toyota minibus taxis and a Suzuki SUV. The crash, which took place 380km east of Cape Town, resulted in 18 fatalities at the scene and three others who died at the hospital, with four more seriously injured. South Africa's road safety issues are highlighted by nearly 11,500 road deaths in 2025, and recent incidents include an earlier crash in Mpumalanga that killed eight people.
Finland has joined France’s Forward Deterrence Initiative, increasing the number of European countries under the French nuclear deterrent to eleven, alongside Britain, Germany, Poland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Denmark, Norway, and now Finland. This move is largely a response to perceived threats from Russia and a reassessment of security arrangements in the wake of the U.S. commitment to NATO. A nuclear steering group will be created to implement the cooperation, but Finland will not permit the stationing of nuclear weapons on its territory during peacetime.
The UK government plans to introduce amendments to legislation that could impose stricter residency requirements on political donors, potentially nullifying the £72 million donations made to the Reform party by cryptocurrency billionaires Ben Delo and Christopher Harborne, each contributing £36 million. Current rules restrict foreign donations from expats to £100,000 and require a minimum residency period, meaning Reform may not be able to accept the donations until January 2028. Labour figures, including Angela Rayner, have criticized the situation, emphasizing the need for regulation that differentiates between union members' contributions and those from wealthy foreign individuals.
Elon Musk’s X Corp and SpaceXAI have dropped their antitrust lawsuit against Apple, which accused the company of conspiring with OpenAI to monopolize the generative AI market by making ChatGPT the sole AI chatbot on iPhones. The lawsuit, filed in August 2025, claimed that Apple's arrangement granted ChatGPT access to billions of user prompts, thus disadvantaging rival AI companies. X and SpaceXAI will continue their legal claims against OpenAI while providing no explanation for their decision to dismiss the claims against Apple.
Firefighters in Northern California have made significant progress in containing the Lucas fire, which has burned over 4,120 acres in Lake and Mendocino counties, reaching 30% containment as of Monday morning. Nearly 900 residents evacuated the area, but no fatalities or missing persons have been reported, although one man was arrested for attempting to bypass a roadblock. Cal Fire has deployed 163 engines, 72 crews, and 8 helicopters to combat the blaze, which began last Thursday and continues to produce substantial smoke while efforts are underway to manage it.
The United Nations' International Organization for Migration (IOM) has warned that Sudan's aid network may collapse imminently due to ongoing fighting, heavy rains, and displacement caused by the conflict, which has resulted in over 200,000 deaths and left 8.6 million people internally displaced. The IOM's humanitarian pipeline, supported by nearly 100 NGOs, has supplied aid to 2.8 million people since July 2023, but its operational capacity is at risk of depletion, requiring $42 million to restore its previous level of aid. Current funding for the World Food Programme has decreased by about half this year, with only $206 million received compared to $645 million last year, further threatening aid delivery as violence continues in the region.
The aftermath of the Manchester derby centered on a controversial VAR decision that allowed Erling Haaland’s goal for Manchester United, which was initially ruled offside, to stand, ultimately giving United three crucial points. The Premier League’s refereeing body, Professional Game Referees (Pro Ref), acknowledged that this decision was an “error of judgment,” as Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position, did not touch the ball before Haaland scored. VAR, intended to support clear decision-making, continues to provoke heated debates among fans, players, and experts, particularly as it is used in over 300 competitions worldwide since its introduction in the 2018-19 season.
Mahmoud Khalil has filed a lawsuit against Columbia University, accusing it of years of anti-Palestinian discrimination, deliberate indifference to harassment, and retaliation, after he was arrested by immigration agents in March 2025 as part of a crackdown on pro-Palestinian advocates. In a 60-page complaint, Khalil and other members of the Palestine Working Group claim the university failed to address "severe, persistent, and coordinated harassment" they faced, and he seeks $20 million for false imprisonment and malicious prosecution against the Trump administration. Following rising tensions on campus after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, Columbia students have also faced doxing campaigns, prompting calls for administrative support to protect their privacy and safety.
US President Donald Trump dismissed calls for increased oversight of artificial intelligence as part of a "sick conspiracy" aimed at undermining American technological development, suggesting that the only beneficiaries are China. His remarks came amid concerns from AI executives, including Anthropic's CEO Dario Amodei, who warned that AI capabilities could be fully operational within six to twelve months, potentially causing damages worth hundreds of billions of dollars. This escalation of concerns has already influenced the market, contributing to a plunge in AI-linked stocks and causing OpenAI to delay its planned IPO, which was aiming for a valuation of up to $1 trillion.
The Finnish city of Rovaniemi hosted European leaders to discuss a new EU strategy for the Arctic amid increasing geopolitical tensions, with Prime Minister Petteri Orpo highlighting the region's rising importance due to climate change and Russia’s military activities. The summit underscored the changing security landscape, as Finland and Sweden's NATO membership alters the dynamics along Finland's 1,340-kilometer border with Russia, and calls for investments in military mobility and infrastructure were made in the joint declaration. Analysts noted that as military focus shifts due to the Ukraine conflict, there may be future Russian investments in the Arctic, while ongoing tensions, including those fueled by former US President Trump's comments about Canada and Greenland, complicate Arctic governance cooperation.