united states news

The Washington Informer reports on growing opposition to Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton's reelection bid for D.C. Congressional Delegate, with multiple candidates now seeking the position. D.C. Councilmember Robert White has launched his campaign, joining Kymone Freeman, Jacque Patterson, Dierdre Brown, and Gordon Chaffin in the race to represent the District in Congress. The article details how candidates emphasize the urgent need for energetic leadership to combat Republican efforts to undermine D.C.'s home rule, particularly following recent federal interventions in the District. Each candidate outlines their qualifications and priorities, with common themes including strengthening home rule, protecting local autonomy, and advancing D.C. statehood efforts.

Assemblymember Chris Ward has named Dr. Fabiola Bagula, Superintendent of the San Diego Unified School District and the first Latina to hold this position, as the 2025 Latino Heritage Month honoree for Assembly District 78. Dr. Bagula's selection recognizes her extensive contributions to education, including her work as an educator, principal, and administrator, as well as her leadership coaching for superintendents across San Diego County. Throughout her distinguished career, she has received several awards, contributed to academic publications, and maintained academic positions while drawing from her bicultural upbringing on the San Diego border. Upon receiving this recognition, Dr. Bagula expressed her gratitude while emphasizing her commitment to ensuring educational opportunities for all students in the San Diego Unified School District.

A significant government shutdown looms in Washington as Democrats stand firmly against what they characterize as attacks on healthcare programs. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries have explicitly rejected compromising on Republican spending proposals that would cut Medicaid and Affordable Care Act funding. In a joint letter to President Trump, the Democratic leaders accused him of deliberately seeking a shutdown to undermine Americans' healthcare coverage. Democrats are leveraging their minority position to demand restoration of Medicaid funding, extension of ACA subsidies, and an end to the administration's appropriations freeze, warning that failure to do so would have devastating consequences for healthcare access nationwide.

Assembly Bill 1263, authored by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), has passed both the California Assembly and Senate and now awaits Governor Newsom's decision. The legislation aims to strengthen oversight of privately manufactured firearms, commonly known as ghost guns, by expanding California's Firearm Industry Responsibility Act and creating legal liability for those who help produce them. The bill specifically targets distribution of instructions for creating 3D-printed and computer numerical control-milled firearms, requiring vendors selling firearm-making equipment to provide clear notice about California's laws on firearm manufacturing. Opposition comes from gun rights groups like the California Rifle and Pistol Association, which argue the bill is unconstitutional and could decrease firearms safety by removing technological access.

The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) has reported 1,180 hate incidents across 49 counties in 2024 through the CA vs Hate hotline and online portal, a multilingual resource providing support to victims and witnesses of hate crimes. More than two-thirds of those reporting requested counseling, legal assistance, or other resources, with racial or ethnic bias mentioned in 44% of reports. Despite a slight decrease in anti-Black hate crime events from 518 in 2023 to 494 in 2024, Black individuals remain the most-targeted racial group for hate crimes in California. In response, Governor Newsom has announced $76 million in grants to 347 community groups to protect nonprofits and houses of worship, while Attorney General Rob Bonta's Racial Justice Bureau continues developing strategies to address bias and strengthen responses to hate crimes.

The Motor City Cruise, the Detroit Pistons' G League affiliate, recently held its annual open tryouts at the Henry Ford Health System Performance Center where hopeful basketball players paid $250 to showcase their skills before team staff. Former Pistons player Lindsey Hunter made an appearance to share his NBA journey and inspire participants with advice about character and discipline. The tryouts highlight success stories like John Ukomadu, who went from being a tryout participant last year to earning a roster spot, performing well in the G League, and eventually signing an Exhibit 10 contract with the Pistons. Under third-year head coach Jamelle McMillian, the Cruise demonstrated strong development during NBA Summer League, suggesting positive momentum as they prepare for their 2025 campaign.

The County of San Diego has officially adopted an $8.63 billion budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, which is now available on the County's budget website. The budget, which took effect July 1, prioritizes core services while investing in key areas such as housing, homelessness, behavioral health, public safety, and environmental sustainability. County staff developed the budget with consideration for potential federal and state policy changes, while incorporating public input gathered through hearings, open houses, and written comments. The final budget was adopted by the Board of Supervisors on June 24 following a comprehensive process that began with the release of the recommended budget on May 1 and included budget deliberations held June 3-12.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under Trump-appointed Administrator Lee Zeldin has secured a significant court victory allowing it to freeze $20 billion from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund established by the Inflation Reduction Act. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled 2-1 in favor of the EPA, with two Trump-appointed judges framing the issue as a contract dispute that belongs in federal claims court. This decision affects funds that were originally earmarked for low-income and disadvantaged communities, with 70% intended for these areas. The ruling overturns a previous court decision that had required Citibank to release the frozen funds to the nonprofit organizations to which they had been awarded.

The Mental Bar Coffee, Tea & Wellness Cafe in Encanto recently celebrated its three-year anniversary with a community gathering at its Imperial Avenue location. Owners Tommy and Danielle Walker hosted the celebration for their veteran- and woman-owned business, which has become a cornerstone of Encanto's Black Arts & Culture District. Co-owner Danielle Walker highlighted the significance of reaching the three-year milestone, noting that many Black-owned businesses don't survive that long. Beyond serving coffee and food, the establishment offers wellness information, youth programs, art shows, and functions as a vital community gathering space.

Kamala Harris's new book "107 Days" provides an intimate look at her historic but unsuccessful 2024 presidential campaign, revealing aspects of her personality that were rarely seen by the public during her candidacy. The memoir recounts her shock and denial on election night, her struggle to accept the results, and her belief that the abbreviated timeline of just over three months wasn't sufficient to make her case to voters. While reflecting on the challenges she faced as both vice president and candidate, Harris also chronicles meaningful campaign moments, from voter interactions to how joy became a campaign strategy. The book concludes without clearly indicating whether Harris will run again in 2028, but with a call for her supporters to "stay in the fight."

Michigan is on the brink of a partial government shutdown as Republican-led House and Democratic-controlled Senate lawmakers remain deadlocked over the state budget with an October 1 deadline approaching. Governor Gretchen Whitmer remains confident a bipartisan agreement is possible despite the current stalemate, though her administration has not outlined shutdown management plans. Essential functions like public safety would continue during a shutdown, but many state services could stall, affecting school districts, state employees, and organizations reliant on state funding. The standoff centers on competing spending priorities, with Republicans criticizing Democrats for rejecting a stripped-down plan while Democrats argue the GOP proposal would cut too deeply into core priorities like education and infrastructure projects.

A controversy has erupted in the Detroit mayoral race between Pastor Solomon Kinloch and city council president Mary Sheffield over alleged ethics violations. Kinloch accused Sheffield of breaking city ethics rules by accepting Jeezy concert tickets from Comerica Bank, despite Detroit's charter prohibiting elected officials from accepting gifts. Sheffield defended her actions, stating she obtained the tickets for community members and that Comerica Bank isn't currently doing business with the city, while Detroit Corporation Counsel Conrad Mallet declared no ethics violation occurred. The dispute has intensified the campaign dynamics, with Kinloch's team adopting a more aggressive approach despite previously promising not to run a negative campaign.

A historic naval battle from 1779 off the East Yorkshire coast, known as the Battle of Flamborough Head, is being commemorated with a refurbished monument on its 246th anniversary. The battle, which saw American captain John Paul Jones capture the British HMS Serapis while commanding the USS Bonhomme Richard, is considered a pivotal moment in US Navy history despite mixed outcomes for both sides. The refurbished toposcope will provide visitors with information about this significant engagement during the American War of Independence, which boosted American morale despite not achieving all military objectives. The commemoration represents the transformation of the British-American relationship from enemies to allies over the past 250 years.

Erika Kirk has been appointed the new chief executive of Turning Point USA following the tragic shooting death of her husband and organization co-founder Charlie Kirk. During his memorial service attended by President Trump and Vice President Vance, she pledged to expand the conservative nonprofit's chapters, faith initiatives, and campus events in honor of her husband's vision. The 36-year-old former Miss Arizona has her own public profile through Christian podcasts, Bible study leadership, and a nonprofit organization, while sharing her husband's conservative Christian values particularly regarding gender roles and family structure. Erika Kirk, who described having an "Ephesians 5 marriage" with Charlie, has indicated she will continue his mission exactly as planned, though she has historically focused more on marriage and motherhood topics than specific political positions.

The US Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that President Donald Trump can dismiss Federal Trade Commission Democratic Commissioner Rebecca Slaughter while legal challenges continue. This decision comes alongside the Court's agreement to review a 1935 precedent that protects independent agencies from presidential control. The liberal justices, led by Elena Kagan, dissented, arguing that the ruling gives the president control over agencies Congress designed to be independent and bipartisan. The Court will hear arguments in December about potentially overturning the Humphrey's Executor ruling, which established that commissioners could only be removed for misconduct or neglect of duty.

A federal report from 2024 highlights a significant disparity in organ donation in America, where Black Americans comprise over 25% of the transplant waiting list but only 13% of organ donors. To address this inequity, Word In Black's research division has launched a survey seeking direct input from the community about barriers to organ donation, including issues of mistrust, misinformation, and access. The initiative aims to gather firsthand experiences to better understand these disparities and improve the organ donation system. Survey participants will be entered into a drawing for prizes as an incentive for sharing their perspectives.

The U.S. government faces a potential shutdown as Democrats in Congress refuse to support a spending bill that would cut Medicaid and allow Affordable Care Act subsidies to expire. Democratic leaders like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries have taken a firm stance against the Republican spending bill, framing it as a defense of healthcare for ordinary Americans. For Washington D.C. residents, these proposed cuts would exacerbate existing racial health disparities, particularly affecting Black communities already facing higher rates of chronic illnesses and discrimination in healthcare settings. Democrats are demanding restoration of previously cut Medicaid funding and extension of ACA subsidies, arguing they're fighting to maintain healthcare access for vulnerable communities.

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Birmingham, is actively campaigning for Detroit's support in the 2026 Democratic primary election for U.S. Senate, recently holding an event with members of Michigan's Legislative Black Caucus. During the event, Stevens addressed her controversial vote to approve a resolution honoring Charlie Kirk, while her colleague Rep. Thanedar noted he voted against it due to Kirk's racist views. Stevens emphasized her experience representing Southeast Michigan residents and highlighted her focus on addressing healthcare costs and economic issues affecting everyday Americans. Former House Speaker Joe Tate endorsed Stevens as the candidate who best represents the interests of Black voters, particularly amid concerns about rights being diminished and historical revisionism.

Lisane Basquiat, co-administrator of the Estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat, participated in Actively Black's New York Fashion Week event titled "This Is Not a Fashion Show" on September 12th at Sony Hall. Accompanied by her children Raymond and Jessica, as well as her 8-year-old granddaughter Emma, the family modeled clothing from a collaboration between Actively Black and the Basquiat Estate. The event honored several Black cultural icons, including Jean-Michel Basquiat and Ruby Bridges, with Emma reenacting Ruby's historic school integration experience. Lisane expressed deep gratitude for the event, praising Actively Black co-founders Lanny Smith and Bianca Winslow for celebrating important figures in Black history through their fashion presentation.

The 40th annual Mayor's Arts Awards, scheduled for September 25 at the National Theatre in D.C., celebrates local artistic achievements while highlighting the District's commitment to supporting its creative culture. Originally established by former Mayor Marion Barry and continued by current Mayor Muriel Bowser, the awards coincide with 202Creates Month, which recognizes D.C.'s $15 billion creative economy. This free, black-tie event will feature performances by notable artists including Grammy-nominated Eric Roberson and go-go band Black Alley, with special appearances by broadcaster Donnie Simpson and other surprise guests. The ceremony represents an opportunity to showcase D.C.'s artistic talent to visitors in town for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference.

Detroit City Councilman Fred Durhal III has endorsed City Council President Mary Sheffield for mayor of Detroit, becoming the second former mayoral opponent to back her candidacy. Durhal made the announcement at In Harmony Cafe on Detroit's west side, emphasizing Sheffield's 12 years of experience and leadership in city government. He stressed that Detroit needs experienced leadership rather than a "rookie" in the city's top position, highlighting Sheffield's work on ordinances and neighborhood development. Sheffield, who will face Rev. Solomon Kinloch in the November 4 general election, expressed honor at receiving Durhal's endorsement and their shared commitment to neighborhood improvement.

The White House has firmly rejected reports that border tsar Tom Homan accepted a $50,000 bribe during an FBI undercover sting operation last year. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt characterized the investigation as a politically motivated attempt by the Biden administration to target one of President Trump's vocal supporters, claiming Homan "did absolutely nothing wrong." Current FBI Director Kash Patel has reportedly ordered an investigation that found "zero evidence of illegal activity," and the administration maintains that Homan was not involved in awarding any contracts. The White House has emphasized that President Trump stands fully behind Homan, who is leading efforts on mass deportations and stopping illegal immigration.

ABC has indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show following his comments about Charlie Kirk's assassination, prompting hundreds of celebrities including Jennifer Aniston and Meryl Streep to sign a letter calling the suspension "a dark moment for freedom of speech." FCC Chair Brendan Carr threatened regulatory action against ABC after Kimmel's monologue criticized Trump and Republicans for their reaction to Kirk's murder. The controversy has sparked a national debate on free speech, with critics accusing ABC and Disney of caving to pressure from the Trump administration, which has subsequently threatened broadcast networks with license revocation.

The University of California community has filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming it is violating civil rights laws to restrict academic freedom. The suit challenges the administration's $1.2 billion fine and research funding freeze at UCLA over alleged antisemitism violations. Plaintiffs argue that the government's proposed settlement demands violate university independence by requiring access to private data, ending diversity scholarships, banning overnight demonstrations, and mandating cooperation with immigration enforcement. UC President James Milliken described these actions as "one of the gravest threats" in the university's 157-year history, as the system receives over $17 billion annually in federal support for research and student aid.

California's 39th District State Senator Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson has authored Senate Resolution 56, officially designating September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in California. As an OB-GYN, she emphasizes that while less than 20% of ovarian cancers are caught early, increased awareness can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes. The resolution aims to create a platform for educational campaigns, partnerships with health organizations, and encourage healthcare providers to have proactive conversations with patients about risk factors. Dr. Weber Pierson urges other states to follow California's example, noting that awareness initiatives can help address health disparities, spur policy development, increase research funding, and provide support for survivors and families.

The San Diego City Council is considering a Paid Parking Program for Balboa Park that would implement tiered rates in surface lots while offering discounts for residents and free parking for park employees and volunteers, with revenue dedicated to park maintenance. Additionally, the Council has approved creating a Parking Meter Zone for streets around the park and will implement special-event parking rate increases to $10 per hour near Petco Park for events with over 10,000 attendees beginning September 1. Other recent developments include California Attorney General Rob Bonta issuing guidance to protect immigrants from scams and the adoption of a Residential Tenant Utility Fee Ordinance that prevents landlords from charging tenants more than the actual cost of city utilities, effective August 17, 2025.

Several health care bills awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom's approval aim to improve access to affordable prescription drugs, reduce medical care delays, and enhance privacy protections for Californians. These bills include measures to cap insulin costs at $35 monthly, regulate pharmacy benefit managers, streamline prior authorization processes, and ensure patients receive information about hospital financial assistance. The legislation also includes privacy protections for immigrants seeking medical care and safeguards for abortion information, responding to concerns about federal enforcement and interstate legal conflicts regarding reproductive healthcare.

The NAACP is embarking on an aggressive legal strategy for 2025, with Chief Strategy Officer Yumeka Rushing declaring "We suing everybody" as their rallying cry. This approach revives the organization's historical roots of seeking social change through court battles, similar to the work of NAACP Legal Defense Fund icons like Thurgood Marshall and Constance Baker Motley. The organization has already filed multiple lawsuits challenging actions they view as threats to Black Americans, including suits against the Trump Administration over education policies, and against Texas and Missouri for alleged racial gerrymandering. Beyond litigation, the NAACP is also launching community mobilization efforts like the Fierce Advocacy in Action Town Halls and the Black Voter Defense Fund to protect voting rights and engage Black communities ahead of upcoming elections.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture has established a new citrus quarantine across northern San Diego County and part of Camp Pendleton after finding Huanglongbing (HLB) disease in a residential tree in San Clemente. This quarantine, which connects with existing restrictions in southern Orange County, prohibits moving citrus plants and fruit outside the quarantine boundaries without proper treatment. HLB, spread by the Asian citrus psyllid, poses a significant threat to San Diego County's $144 million citrus industry by causing bitter, misshapen fruit and eventually killing infected trees. Officials are actively testing nearby trees, arranging protective treatments, and collaborating with local residents and growers to prevent further spread of this deadly citrus disease.

Afro-Bolivians, though officially recognized in the constitution since 2009, continue to struggle for visibility and acceptance in a country where they're often mistaken as foreigners despite being native Bolivians. Around 23,000 people identified as Afro in Bolivia's 2012 census, with most residing in the remote Yungas region where they depend on coca harvesting and honey production for their livelihoods. Despite some progress through the establishment of the Afro-Bolivian National Council (CONAFRO) in 2011 and the designation of a national day for Afro-Bolivian people, community leaders argue that symbolic recognition has not translated into meaningful structural change or accurate representation in educational curricula. The community maintains its cultural identity through traditional "saya" music and dance, which serves as both a cultural touchstone and a tool for political visibility and protest.