Morning Rundown: Nobel Peace Prize recipient declared amidst concerns of bedbug epidemic

Republicans Face Reality Check as New Speaker Considered

As the House considers new leadership following Kevin McCarthy’s tenure as Speaker, Republicans must confront the reality that electing a more conservative leader will not guarantee the fulfillment of their legislative agenda. Senators from both parties warn that a more right-leaning leader will still need to work with liberal Democrats in the Senate and White House in order to pass significant legislation and fund the government. Senate Minority Whip John Thune emphasizes that House Republicans will have to reach across the aisle to achieve their goals. Sen. Sherrod Brown questions the logic of moving further to the right in order to get things done. The race for the new Speaker includes bids from Reps. Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise, but neither candidate currently has the necessary votes to secure the position.

Biden Administration Implements Changes on Immigration Policy

The Biden administration has announced two significant policy changes regarding illegal immigration. The U.S. will resume direct repatriation flights for Venezuelans who have unlawfully crossed the border and do not have a legal basis to remain in the country. Additionally, the administration has waived 26 federal laws to allow for more border wall construction in South Texas. This decision marks a reversal for President Joe Biden, who had previously vowed not to construct any additional border wall during his presidency. The moves come in response to criticism from both Democrats and Republicans urging the administration to take action to control the flow of undocumented immigrants into the country.

Dick Butkus, NFL Legend, Passes Away at 80

Dick Butkus, renowned linebacker and Pro Football Hall of Famer, has passed away at the age of 80. The former Chicago Bear died peacefully in his sleep in Malibu, according to a statement from the Bears. Butkus had a successful career both in college and in the NFL, and his induction into the Hall of Fame was a dream come true for him. He saw it as an opportunity to become a better person and make a positive impact in his personal life. Butkus will be remembered as one of the greatest linebackers in the history of the NFL.

New Study Reveals Evidence of “Long Cold” Syndrome

A recent study suggests that the coronavirus is not the only pathogen that can cause lingering symptoms after an initial infection. Researchers have found evidence of a “long cold” syndrome, in which individuals experience prolonged symptoms after infections with common respiratory illnesses, including cold viruses and influenza. This research presents an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms behind long-lasting symptoms and potentially find ways to alleviate them. Scientists emphasize that studying long Covid can lead to valuable insights into other conditions with persistent symptoms.

Nobel Peace Prize Awarded to Jailed Iranian Activist

Narges Mohammadi, a jailed Iranian human rights activist, has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her fight against women’s oppression in Iran and her advocacy for human rights. Mohammadi has faced personal sacrifices, including imprisonment, as she bravely fought against the government and rallied support for women-led protests in Iran. The recent hospitalization of a 16-year-old girl after an incident with the morality police has sparked further outrage and highlighted the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in the country.

New Jersey Officials Investigate Fatal Crash Involving Sen. Menendez’s Wife

After police records revealed the involvement of Sen. Bob Menendez’s wife in a fatal car crash in 2018, officials from the New Jersey Attorney General’s public integrity office are reviewing how local authorities handled the incident at the time. Nadine Menendez, formerly Nadine Arslanian, was driving the car that struck and killed pedestrian Richard Koop. The family of the victim has expressed criticism of how the crash was handled by local authorities, as well as Nadine Menendez’s actions following the incident. The crash is potentially linked to the bribery charges against the senator and his wife.

Burden of Student Loan Debt Heavier for Black Students

As millions of students resume their student loan repayments, Black graduates face a heavier burden of debt compared to their white counterparts. On average, Black graduates owe $25,000 more in student loans and owe 188% more than white students. This disparity has been exacerbated by the pandemic, which disrupted college experiences and limited opportunities for work and internships. Despite the challenges, Black graduates acknowledge the need to repay their debts and move forward. The issue of student loan debt is a significant one, especially for marginalized communities.

Bedbug Concerns Overblown, Exterminators Say

Concerns about bedbugs being brought into the U.S. by travelers have been dismissed by exterminators who assert that bedbugs are already widespread in the country. Recent reports of infestations in Paris during Fashion Week led to fears of bedbugs being brought back to the U.S. However, experts highlight that bedbugs are already present and prevalent nationwide. The fears may be fueled by misconceptions and misinformation.