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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
ARLINGTON, Texas — Concerns surrounded the World Cup’s expansion to 48 teams, but FIFA couldn’t have hoped for a more rewarding outcome.
Despite fears of diluted competition, the tournament delivered excitement with minimal exceptions. Instead of reconsidering the 32-team format, the largely drama-free final day of group stages might even support Gianni Infantino’s call to expand to 64 teams, as he discussed in an interview with the Swiss media outlet Bluewin.
Ultimately, the four teams reaching the semifinals are those that most neutral fans hoped to see. These matchups are set to draw massive audiences, beginning with a showdown between Spain and France deep in the heart of Texas on Tuesday, followed by England taking on Argentina on Wednesday in Atlanta.
From a purely sporting perspective, the clash between Spain and France is poised to be the match of the tournament. These teams have stood out at this World Cup. Spain has progressively found its rhythm, conceding just one goal and controlling play reminiscent of Vicente del Bosque’s team that secured the nation’s sole World Cup title in 2010. Meanwhile, France has displayed dominance, breezing past opponents with seemingly effortless ease.
Your workouts should prioritize giving your hips the care they deserve.
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Although often overlooked, your hip health is crucial when fine-tuning your fitness routine. As the years go by, hip strength tends to dwindle owing to sarcopenia, a decrease in physical activity, and alterations in joint flexibility. Over time, the surrounding hip muscles lose their vigor and efficiency, leading to potential weakness and rigidity, notes Josh York, Founder & CEO of GYMGUYZ, which stands as the leading in-home and on-site personal training enterprise worldwide.
Having resilient and healthy hips is essential for executing everyday activities like lifting weights and maintaining balance while moving. A decline in hip strength can significantly affect your stability and coordination.
“This weakening might make typical movements feel uncertain and elevate the risk of falling, which could eventually lead to a decreased ability to live independently as routine activities become more cumbersome,” York informs us.
To combat this, we’ve discovered five exercises performed while standing that can enhance hip strength more efficiently than traditional gym workouts after the age of 60.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e
Standing Hip Extension
“Standing hip extensions strengthen the glutes, which are primary drivers of hip power used for walking, standing, and climbing stairs,” York tells us.
Begin standing tall with your feet hip-width apart.
Hold onto a sturdy chair or wall for support, if needed.
Activate your core.
Shift your body weight onto one leg.
Extend the opposite leg straight behind you, lifting it a few inches off the ground.
Squeeze your glute at the top.
Slowly lower.
Repeat on the other side.
5 Short Workouts That Keep You Stronger Than Most 30-Year-Olds After 50
Standing Hip Abductions
“This exercise targets the outer hip muscles that stabilize the pelvis and help maintain balance during single-leg movement,” York says.
Begin by standing tall with your feet hip-width apart and hands on your hips.
Activate your core and shift your weight onto your left leg.
Keep your right leg straight and toes pointed forward as you lift it out to the side as high as you’re comfortably able to.
Hold at the top for a moment before lowering for 3 seconds.
5 Standing Exercises That Restore Hip Strength Faster Than Floor Stretches After 55
Diagonal Step Reach
“Diagonal step reaches train the hips through multiple movement angles, improving coordination, weight transfer, and real-world movement control,” York notes.
Begin standing tall with your feet hip-distance apart and arms by your sides.
Activate your core and maintain a tall chest.
Step one foot diagonally forward and reach the opposite arm across your body toward that foot.
Drive through the front foot to return to the start position.
Repeat on the other side and continue to alternate with every step.
6 Morning Exercises That Restore Hip Strength Faster Than Floor Stretches After 55
Lateral Step Holds
“Lateral step holds improve lateral stability and control during changes in direction by building strength in a side-loaded position that helps with stepping sideways, catching balance, and shifting weight to turn,” York explains.
Begin by standing tall with your feet hip-width apart.
Activate your core.
Next, step one foot out to the side, assuming a comfortable, wide stance.
Shift your body weight onto the stepping foot, slightly bending that knee.
Hold this position, keeping a tall posture.
Press through your bent leg to return to the start position.
Repeat on the other side.
5 Daily Exercises That Restore Hip Mobility Faster Than Floor Stretches After 55
Standing Hip Circles
“Standing hip circles improve hip joint mobility while reinforcing control through full-range circular movement patterns,” says York.
Stand tall with your feet hip-distance apart.
Lightly hold onto a sturdy chair for support.
Activate your core.
Shift your body weight onto one leg.
Lift the other knee to hip level.
Gradually trace a circle with that knee, using control.
In a harrowing yet exhilarating episode, a young boy recounted how he and his sibling were dramatically airlifted to safety by Black Hawk helicopters as intense rainstorms led to substantial flooding during their summer camp in Missouri.
Brothers Benjamin, 11, and Teddy, 9, found themselves among a group of over 200 children and counselors urgently evacuated from Camp Taum Sauk in Reynolds County last Friday. Rising floodwaters from the neighboring Black River posed significant danger, creating treacherous conditions.
Reflecting on the rescue operation, Teddy shared their thrilling experience with NPR, exclaiming, “We got to go on a Black Hawk. It was very loud, very cool, and fast.”
Describing the rescue alongside his brother, Teddy remarked that the entire episode was “really, really fun,” a surprisingly positive outlook given the circumstances.
The relentless downpour had triggered memories of a tragic incident the previous July at Camp Mystic in Texas, where devastating floods claimed the lives of 25 young campers, two counselors, and the camp’s executive director. This fueled anxiety about the potential for a similar catastrophe in Missouri.
Benjamin and Teddy’s mother, Ann DeField, said she suddenly started receiving texts from concerned moms on Friday night about overnight flash flooding at the summer camp.
DeField described the experience as a ‘whirlwind,’ though she noted that she and her husband were more panicked than her children.
‘When they got home … I couldn’t hug them long enough,’ she told NPR. ‘They were fine. They really just thought it was all a big adventure.’
Ann DeField said her two sons, nine-year-old Teddy and 11-year-old Benjamin, were among those rescued from huge floods at Camp Taum Sauk in Reynolds County, Missouri, on Friday
Eight UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters staffed by approximately 35 crewmembers rescued 202 children and counselors from the summer camp, according to Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe
The once-in-a-thousand years downpour caused as much as 12 inches of rain to fall within a matter of hours overnight, Missouri authorities said
Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe said Friday that eight UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters staffed by approximately 35 crewmembers had rescued 202 children and counselors.
The campers were taken to the Arcadia Valley Elementary School to be reunited with their families, according to Kehoe’s statement.
As much as 12 inches of rain fell within a matter of hours overnight, according to Missouri authorities, prompting a once-in-a-thousand years downpour of rain across the state.
People were rescued from sweeping floodwaters, as well as trees, rooftops and vehicles, the governor’s office said.
‘This effort reflects the very best of our state emergency response teams,’ Kehoe said.
He added: ‘Countless men and women, across multiple jurisdictions, have been working around the clock with one mission in mind: saving lives.’
Campers started being evacuated around 2am on Friday, with dozens of girls in low-lying cabins near the river being woken up and rushed to the camp cafeteria, according to The New York Times.
However, they were soon forced to move again to higher ground near the camp’s tennis courts as the floodwaters continued rising and rapidly moving.
A view of the floodwaters inundating large swaths of southeastern Missouri after huge downpours of rain triggered generational flooding
Missouri Task Force 1, a local urban search-and-rescue team, also deployed 50 members with specialized equipment and rescue boats to help save people
The girls passed the time making bracelets and arts and crafts projects, as well as playing board games.
In the meantime, the boys, who were housed on higher ground, remained in their summer camp cabins, per the outlet.
They listened to the radio and talked as staff continued to monitor the potentially dangerous floodwaters.
Outside the camp, frightened parents exchanged information through group messages as roads gradually became inaccessible due to the rising water.
Some of the other children recalled viewing the unusual helicopter rescue.
‘When I first heard we were getting on helicopters, I was kind of scared,’ Everett Box, 11, told the outlet. ‘Then I kind of warmed up to it and was super excited to go on it.’
It was Everett’s third time attending the summer camp.
Fellow camper Cate Hensley, also 11, said she could no longer tell where the Black River ended and the road began by Friday morning.
Her cabin was left covered in broken glass, preventing her from retrieving her belongings.
However, Cate’s mother, Melissa Hensley, insisted that the scary experience had not changed how her family viewed the camp.
‘This is their happy place,’ she said. ‘They plan for this every single year.’
Missouri authorities reported one death as a result of the torrential flooding. 23-year-old Faith Gregory was found dead on Saturday
Gregory’s body was discovered approximately 1.8 miles downstream from her home (pictured) in Huzzah Creek
A photo posted by Missouri State Emergency Management Agency of what the effort on the ground looked like
In addition to the Black Hawks mentioned by the governor, emergency responders also helped rescue people stranded as a result of the flooding.
Urban search-and-rescue team Missouri Task Force 1 deployed 50 members with specialized equipment and rescue boats, according to St. Louis Public Radio.
At the time, the Black River was expected to crest at a record level of more than 28 feet near Annapolis, about 15 miles southeast of the camp.
As of Sunday, one person had died from the disastrous flooding in Missouri.
Faith Gregory, 23, who had gone missing after floodwaters ripped her home from its foundation in Crawford County, was found dead on Saturday.
Volunteers discovered her body roughly 1.8 miles downstream from her home in Huzzah Creek.
‘This is not the outcome that any of us were hoping for,’ the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office said.
‘Our thoughts and prayers are with Faith’s family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss,’ the sheriff’s office added.
Authorities have said that no one else remained unaccounted for in wake of the deluge.
This year’s US midterm elections carry high stakes that transcend the typical battle for congressional control.Learn more.
As November’s election looms, political analysts are keenly observing a host of legal and political shifts taking place under President Donald Trump’s administration. Experts warn these developments could potentially undermine the fairness of the electoral process, complicate the ability of Americans to cast their votes, and set troubling precedents as the nation looks toward the 2028 presidential race.
The 2023 midterms hold significant implications for President Trump himself, as the results could dramatically influence his political future.
Should the Democrats regain dominance in Congress, it is widely anticipated that they will pursue thorough investigations into President Trump’s administration. This shift could significantly hinder the Republicans’ ability to push their legislative priorities.
In response, Trump has expressed concern, alleging that a Democratic victory in November would likely lead to efforts to impeach him.
The president’s party often loses seats in the midterms, and with Trump’s approval rating at all-time lows, history — and the polls — suggest the Democrats have an edge. But an extraordinary campaign by both parties to redraw congressional maps mid-decade may blunt that advantage.
“The degree to which [Trump] is prone to interfere in elections is very worrying,” John Hart, a specialist in American government and former head of the Australian National University’s political science department, tells SBS News.
“In the past, he’s tended to interfere afterwards, after the results have gone against him. But more recently, he’s been very active in generating legislative proposals for so-called electoral reform.”
Most of them would make it harder to vote rather than easier to vote.
Democrats have voiced concerns that the Trump administration could interfere in the midterms, pointing to his attempts to overturn and undermine the 2020 presidential election result with false claims of widespread fraud.
“There will be an all-out assault on our election process,” Democratic House Representative Robert Garcia said last month, adding that Trump would “use everything he can, every lever he has” to target close races.
He said Democrats were preparing with partners and legal organisations across the country to counter any such actions.
Meanwhile, Trump and other Republicans argue their actions and proposals will make the election more secure.
Trump has claimed Democrats can’t win without cheating and recently alleged, without evidence, that Democrats were “trying to steal” primary elections in California.
This is playing out against a backdrop of declining trust in the US electoral system and American democracy, both domestically and abroad.
Americans across the political spectrum have become less confident in elections since the 2024 presidential vote, according to a survey earlier this year by the Center for Transparent and Trusted Elections at the University of California San Diego.
The sources of scepticism differed. For example, Republicans were much more likely to hold concerns about postal voting and noncitizen voting, but distrust about redrawing congressional maps was shared across party lines.
Here’s a closer look at some of the ways the Trump administration has sought to alter the election landscape ahead of the midterm vote.
An ‘out-of-control’ fight over electoral maps
Since last year, a battle has been playing out across the US involving the redrawing of congressional maps for political advantage, a controversial but longstanding practice known as gerrymandering.
Redrawing maps allows a party to divide or expand existing voting districts into new ones that are more likely to favour them.
Typically, legislative districts are revised once every 10 years, following the release of census data.
In an unusual turn, not seen in more than a century, the current redistricting surge is occurring mid-decade.
As it stands, 10 states — Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah — have drawn new maps since last year.
Before that, only two states had voluntarily redrawn their congressional maps between censuses since 1970.
The wave of changes began after Trump pressed Republicans in Texas to draw up a new congressional map that could give them five House of Representatives seats currently held by Democrats.
Trump was explicit about his intentions, saying Republicans were “entitled to five more seats”.
It set off what some commentators called a redistricting “arms race” between both parties.
Democrats have responded by redrawing districts in California in a way that could give them three to five more seats. Elected officials in multiple other states have followed or tried to follow suit.
Redrawn maps favour Democrats in only California and Utah, where court interventions struck down a previous Republican-drawn map.
According to a New York Times tally, the overall effect is a possible three to 12 additional House seats for Republicans in the midterms.
“It has gone out of control this year,” Hart says.
It will certainly affect the outcome of some elections in some states, but at the moment it isn’t predictable exactly how much it’s going to impact the election results.
A recent US Supreme Court ruling on the Voting Rights Act further altered the landscape, making it harder to challenge maps that weaken minority voting power and giving states more freedom to draw districts for partisan advantage.
In states such as Louisiana, Alabama and Tennessee, it paved the way for Republicans to break up majority-black voting districts with new maps.
Experts say maps drawn before the midterms could lock in structural advantages that shape US politics for a decade.
Trump’s push to change US election rules
Since returning to the White House last year, Trump has sought to alter the way elections are run in the US through several mechanisms, including two sweeping executive orders and a proposed piece of legislation.
The moves have been underscored by his unfounded claims that noncitizen and postal voting are significant threats to election integrity. He has also urged Republicans to “nationalise” and “take over” voting in some places.
His efforts, which critics have described as executive overreach, have faced significant legal challenges.
Unlike Australia, where national elections are overseen by the Australian Electoral Commission — an independent federal agency — the US constitution gives the states responsibility for administering federal elections, with each state following its own rules and procedures.
Major changes to federal election laws must be passed by Congress, rather than enacted by the president.
Emily Rodriguez is the elections spokesperson for Protect Democracy, a nonpartisan research and advocacy group in the US.
She tells SBS News the “biggest shift” this election cycle is that the federal government “is now being weaponised against our elections, instead of fulfilling their role of protecting them…”
She argues the Trump administration is pursuing a three-part strategy: first, creating the impression of widespread voter fraud through a “fog of investigations”; second, using those claims to justify tighter voting rules; and if those efforts fail, contesting unfavourable election results.
“When a party fears it can’t win at the ballot box but wants to stay in power, it has two options: change its policies to attract more voters, or manipulate the people, the process, or the results. What you’re seeing play out in the United States is a disruption of the process,” she says.
“It’s a pattern that recurs across backsliding democracies: an unpopular leader who still has to face voters doesn’t cancel elections outright — that’s too obvious — he tilts the field enough that a close race breaks his way and builds a pretext to dispute it if it doesn’t.”
However, Rodriguez says there is also “encouraging news” that “structural defences are holding”, with courts blocking federal overreach and states resisting some federal demands.
In a statement to SBS News, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said: “President Trump is committed to ensuring that Americans have full confidence in the administration of elections, and that includes totally accurate and up-to-date voter rolls free of errors and unlawfully registered non-citizen voters.”
She argued that federal election laws authorise the US justice department to ensure states comply with voter roll requirements, and said Trump would continue pushing election reforms, including stricter voter ID requirements and limits on no-excuse mail-in voting.
Executive orders seeking to tighten voter access
In March last year, Trump signed an executive order that sought to tighten voting and registration rules, introducing a requirement for voters to prove citizenship before voting and cracking down on mail-in voting, arguing that ballots not received by election day should be rejected even if posted on time. Federal courts have since blocked or struck down most of that order.
Instances of noncitizens voting in the US are extremely rare.
The conservative Heritage Foundation, which has close ties to the Trump administration, has identified just 99 cases of suspected noncitizen voting since 2000.
Meanwhile, analysis from the Brennan Center for Justice, another US think tank, found just 30 incidents of suspected noncitizen voting in the 2016 election, representing about 0.0001 per cent of votes cast.
“The policies aren’t addressing a real problem, but they are creating real ones,” Rodriguez says.
“Documentary proof-of-citizenship requirements would affect millions of eligible Americans — women who changed their names after marriage and don’t have updated birth certificates, elderly rural voters, people with disabilities who can’t easily get to a government office.”
A 2023 survey by the Brennan Center found more than 21 million eligible US voters do not have proof of citizenship documents, such as a passport or birth certificate, readily available.
In March, Trump issued a second order, directing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to use Americans’ personal information from federal databases to compile state-by-state lists of confirmed US citizens and send them to state election officials to verify voter rolls.
The order also sought to bar the US Postal Service from sending mail ballots to voters who were not included on federally maintained lists.
Both provisions were blocked last month by a federal judge, who ruled that the constitution does not grant the president any specific powers over elections.
The majority-conservative Supreme Court also dealt Trump a blow, ruling last week that states are free to count mail-in ballots that arrive after the election as long as they were cast on time.
The court has effectively been acting as a “referee” on federal government moves, according to Harry Melkonian, a lawyer and honorary associate at the United States Studies Centre who specialises in US constitutional issues.
“I think part of the problem is that the Supreme Court decisions … almost sometimes seem like a hit or miss, which makes it worthwhile for the administration to keep pushing things,” he tells SBS News.
Because sometimes they get away with it, and sometimes they don’t.
The Trump administration has also used other federal agencies, including the justice department and FBI, to seek election records, voter registration data or other election materials in multiple states, arguing the efforts are needed to investigate voter fraud and protect election integrity.
Voter citizenship check tool knocked down in court
Last year, the Trump administration revamped and expanded access to a government tool used to verify citizenship and immigration status called SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements), making it easier for state and local election officials to check voter rolls using immigration records and Social Security numbers.
Voting rights advocates argued SAVE can contain incomplete or outdated records, raising the risk that eligible voters could be prevented from voting.
“Voters wrongly flagged must then prove their eligibility or lose their right to vote.”
While such a reform could effectively restrict voting among both Republican and Democrat supporters, Rodriguez argues the move is strategic.
“Rules like documentary proof-of-citizenship and mail-voting restrictions shrink and shape the electorate in this administration’s favour. The burden may fall on some of the president’s own supporters too, but the bet is that it falls harder on his opponents.”
A federal judge blocked the expanded version of the system last week, saying the government had “trampled on the privacy rights of American citizens in a manner that threatens the sacred right to vote”.
Trump’s signature elections bill
Since large portions of his executive orders have been blocked by the courts, Trump has intensified his push to pass the SAVE (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility) Act, his signature elections bill, which had stalled in the Senate after several Republicans opposed it.
The bill seeks to impose strict voter ID rules, including proof of citizenship at time of registration, audits of voter rolls, restrictions to mail-in voting and criminal penalties for election officials who register applicants without the appropriate documentation.
Trump, who votes by mail himself, has long claimed falsely that mail-in voting is rife with fraud.
Nearly one in three Americans voted by mail in the 2024 general election, according to the States United Democracy Center.
While Democrats were more likely to vote by mail than Republicans (26 per cent of registered Democrats compared with 18 per cent of Republicans in states that track party registration), millions of voters from both major parties used the method.
While Trump’s bill is stuck in Congress, multiple Republican-led state legislatures have enacted or proposed laws that mimic parts of the proposal.
Fears of immigration agents at polling sites
Trump has not ruled out sending federal agents to polling sites at the midterms, a move that civil rights groups say would amount to an illegal voter intimidation tactic.
“I’d do anything necessary to make sure we have honest elections,” Trump told reporters in May, after he was asked whether he would send the National Guard or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
DHS and Trump administration officials have offered conflicting messages on whether ICE officers might be deployed to polling places. While some have said there are no plans to do so, others have defended the idea.
A DHS spokesperson tells SBS News: “Elections exist for the American people, not illegal aliens, to choose their leaders.”
The spokesperson pointed to comments from DHS secretary Markwayne Mullin earlier this year, saying he didn’t understand the concern about immigration enforcement at polling places.
“If you’re not a citizen, you shouldn’t be voting anyway, so technically there shouldn’t be illegals at the polling spot,” Mullin said.
“The only reason why my officers would be there is if there was a specific threat for them to be there, not for intimidation.”
Critics say placing ICE agents near polling places could intimidate eligible voters who fear scrutiny or harassment — particularly those from immigrant communities — and discourage them from voting.
What it could mean for the next election
Buoyed by recent Supreme Court rulings, the redistricting surge is expected to continue ahead of the 2028 presidential election.
There are nine more states where Republicans currently control the redistricting process and could still feasibly implement a boundary change before the presidential election. Democrats could do the same in just four by comparison.
After Trump repeatedly floated the idea of a third term last year, his supporters speculated there could be loopholes in the constitution to allow him to serve beyond 2028.
But legal experts say there’s virtually no viable path for that to happen, and discussion of those claims has died down this year.
Rodriguez says she’ll be watching to see what precedents are set during this election cycle, and whether states expand legal avenues to hold federal officials accountable for constitutional violations.
The honest assessment is that the outcome of 2026 will shape what is attempted in 2028 more than almost any other factor.
“A midterm in which the results are accepted and the democratic process holds will raise the cost of future subversion attempts. A midterm in which the results are successfully contested or the process significantly disrupted, will lower it.”
A devastating vehicle collision in Mexico resulted in the deaths of at least 10 individuals and left approximately 10 more with injuries, including four Americans.
This catastrophic accident occurred on Sunday when a tractor-trailer collided with several vehicles on a highway situated in Jalisco, a western state, as reported by the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection of Nayarit.
Although official reports from the agency confirmed 10 fatalities, statements from Mexico’s Army, Air Force, and National Guard indicated that the death toll was nine.
According to Jalisco Civil Protection officials, four Americans sustained minor injuries in the accident and were subsequently taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, as reported by Reuters.
One vehicle lay charred and twisted following the large-scale vehicular accident in Jalisco, Mexico, on Sunday.(Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection of Nayarit)
“Four patients in minor condition, all U.S. citizens, were transferred to the Arboledas Hospital in Guadalajara by a private ambulance from the highway,” Jalisco Civil Protection said.
Reuters reported that two of those killed were minors.
Another two of the injured were identified as National Guard members who suffered serious injuries and were taken to a hospital in Guadalajara, according to Reuters.
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show several vehicles engulfed in flames along the highway connecting Guadalajara and Tepic, sending multiple plumes of black smoke into the air.
A firefighter works to douse the smoking engine of a destroyed vehicle after a devastating highway collision in Jalisco, Mexico, on Sunday.(Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection of Nayarit)
According to Mexican officials, the crash happened when a tractor-trailer apparently suffered a brake failure and slammed into a line of vehicles that had stopped because of an earlier accident.
“According to initial reports, a trailer reportedly suffered a failure in its braking system and ended up crashing into several vehicles that were stopped due to a prior incident,” Mexico’s Army, Air Force and National Guard said in a post on X.
The initial accident reportedly involved a rear-end collision between two tractor-trailers. As emergency crews responded, a third tractor-trailer crashed into the scene, according to the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection of Nayarit.
“As a result of this second impact, three private vehicles and two tractor-trailer trucks were completely destroyed by the fire,” the authorities said. “Additionally, two other private vehicles and an official Dodge Charger unit belonging to the National Guard sustained material damage. “
Mexican authorities inspect the incinerated frame of a tractor-trailer on a highway connecting Guadalajara and Tepic in Jalisco, Mexico, on Sunday.(Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection of Nayarit)
Firefighters later extinguished the blaze, officials said.
Local outlet El Financiero reported that the driver of the tractor-trailer was detained by the National Guard.
The political drama unfolding in a storied California oil town took another captivating twist on Friday. County leaders made the pivotal decision to put four contested City Council seats back on the ballot, a sharp pivot only a day after the sole councilmember who survived a recall proclaimed himself as the mayor.
The Kings County Board of Supervisors reached a unanimous decision to pass a resolution that places the four Avenal City Council seats up for election this November. Their aim is to restore proper representation after months of unrest following the city’s tumultuous recall conflict.
This resolution comes in the wake of an extraordinary deadlock in Avenal, a Central California city home to around 13,000 people, located some 60 miles southwest of Fresno. As recently as April, four council members, whom the voters had decisively chosen to recall, have persisted in staying in their positions.
Avenal is renowned for its rapid expansion in the 1930s, sparked by the discovery of oil in the region. By 1940, the city boasted some of the finest schools and public services in California, marking its place in the state’s rich history.
Supervisor Richard Valle, who introduced the measure, expressed confidence that the special election would fulfill the electorate’s desire for representation. His comments, reported by ABC30, underline the importance of this electoral rerun in resolving the city’s political deadlock.
‘It is my great honor and my privilege to make this motion today to put the four seats on the ballot and bring back and restore justice, freedom, and democracy to the city of Avenal,’ Valle said.
Under California Elections Code Section 11381, recalled officials are barred from running in the special election, according to Kings County Counsel Laurie Buelna, who said the county confirmed the interpretation with the California Secretary of State’s office.
The vote came just one day after Councilmember Ricardo Verdugo, the only member of the council who survived the recall election, appointed himself mayor – further deepening the city’s leadership crisis.
For now, Verdugo will continue serving in the self-appointed role until the November election, although city attorneys are expected to challenge the move.
Residents have pleaded with supervisors to end the months of political fighting that have consumed the city.
Board Chairman Doug Verboon said supervisors were acting on behalf of residents frustrated by the ongoing dispute.
‘We do not work for the government; we work for the people, and I believe the four individuals forgot who they work for,’ Verboon said.
The latest showdown comes after a months-long legal and political battle that erupted when voters overwhelmingly approved the recall of Mayor Alvaro Preciado and councilmembers Leticia Gamez, Pablo Hernandez and David Reynosa, with each measure receiving more than 76% of the vote.
Instead of stepping down after the results were certified, the recalled officials voted to reject the election results and remain in office, arguing Kings County lacked the authority to administer the recall because the city never formally authorized it.
The dispute has since triggered courtroom battles, heated public meetings and sweeping law-enforcement raids targeting City Hall, a community center and several homes linked to the city’s leadership as investigators continue their probe.
Sacha Baron Cohen made a surprise appearance as his famous alter ego, Ali G, at Wimbledon on Sunday, sparking speculation about an upcoming film project.
The 54-year-old Hollywood star donned a Wimbledon-themed tracksuit in white and green, decorated with the words ‘Da Championshipz’ and a leaf emblem, as he settled into his seat on Centre Court.
On the back of his tracksuit was the phrase ‘Official Ganja Dealer.’ His ensemble was completed with a hat, a chunky gold chain, and his signature tinted glasses.
Reprising the character not seen since 2014, Sacha kept Ali G’s distinct facial hair and persona during BBC’s broadcast of the men’s singles final, where Jannik Sinner triumphed over Alexander Zverev.
Addressing the crowd in an Instagram video, Ali G quipped: ‘I am at the men’s singles at Wimbledon. It’s like the World Cup for something called tennis, which is basically a c**p version of ping pong.’
Sacha Baron Cohen was spotted back as his iconic Ali G character at Wimbledon on Sunday amid rumours he is filming a new movie
The Hollywood actor, 54, was dressed in a white and green Wimbledon themed tracksuit with ‘Da Championshipz’ and a leaf printed on the badge as he took his seat on Centre Court
‘Them say that tennis is better played on grass, which is why I intend to sell as much of it while I was here,’ Ali said, before he jokingly went on to plug a variety of recreational drugs he was ‘selling’ at the tournament.
He captioned the post: ‘I iz BACK! And if u iz at dis borin wimbledore final lookin 2 get grand slammed, I iz here wif de hookup. dm me, especially if u iz fit’ (sic).
He also shared a shot of a DVD of his TV series and wrote: ‘dm me if u want to buy one of these DVD box sets.
‘Me iz got like 10,000 of dem. Dey iz very rare. Free pickup in the northwest surrey area.’ (sic).
Sacha attended day 13 of Wimbledon on Saturday as himself dressed in a smart white suit and green shirt.
Fans took to X to say they couldn’t believe their eyes when they spotted Ali G in the star-studded crowd held at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club.
They wrote: ‘Ali G randomly showing up at Wimbledon wasn’t on anyone’s 2026 bingo card’;
‘Bro is a creative genius, Ali G has always been my favorite character of them all tho. booyakasha’;
‘That was never Sacha Baron Cohen at Wimbledon dressed as Ali G was it. If so, we need clips!; I think it’s safe to say we all miss Ali G’.
Last year, Sacha was reported to be ‘bringing back his iconic comic creation Ali G’, more than two decades after the character first appeared on screens.
The actor was spotted filming new material while in full Ali G mode at a wildlife park in the Cotswolds.
‘Official Ganja Dealer’ was printed on the back of the tracksuit and the star also wore a hat, a heavy gold chain and trademark tinted glasses
Last year, Sacha was reported to be ‘bringing back his iconic comic creation Ali G’, more than two decades after the character first appeared on screens
Sacha, who was last seen playing the character in 2014, sported his alter ego’s facial hair and attitude as he was spotted on the BBC’s coverage of the men’s singles final
Speaking from the crowd in an Instagram video, Ali G jokingly pretended to sell a variety of recreational drugs
‘Them say that tennis is better played on grass, which is why I intend to sell as much of it while I was here. So if you want some herbal remedies, M’s got anything you want,’ he said
Sacha attended day 13 of Wimbledon on Saturday as himself
Dressed in a bold new look featuring a colourful crocheted rastacap, gold bling and trademark tinted shades, the actor was unmistakably back as the Staines-born MC.
Fans in Chipping Norton were left stunned to see the cult character back in action, as Sacha was surrounded by a full production crew while shooting scenes on location.
A source told The Sun: ‘He was with a whole film crew and was in full character.
‘He seemed very comfortable in the role. I was amazed, I thought to myself “that’s Ali G”. He clearly updated Ali G’s wardrobe.
‘He’s replaced his tracksuit and skull cap, but he still had gold jewellery and tinted shades.’
Ali G, known for his infamous line ‘Is it coz I is black?’, first appeared in 1998 on Channel 4’s The 11 O’Clock Show.
The streetwise satirical figure quickly gained popularity, going on to star in Da Ali G Show and hit 2002 movie Ali G Indahouse.
The new wardrobe hints at a modern twist for the classic character, but the essence of Ali G remains intact – complete with the same swagger, shades, and gold jewellery fans remember.
Sacha’s return as Ali G comes after years of focusing on other projects, including his award-winning turn in Borat and more recent political satire work.
It’s not yet confirmed whether the footage will form part of a TV special, online release or a brand-new series and details of the new project remain under wraps, but the sighting has sparked major excitement among longtime fans.
The Daily Mail has contacted Sacha Baron Cohen’s representatives for comment.
Fans took to X to say they couldn’t believe their eyes when they spotted Ali G in the star-studded crowd held at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club
Elsewhere at Wimbledon it was a very star-studded affair for the men’s singles final on Sunday afternoon.
Hollywood stars and British A-listers descended on south-west London as the two-week tournament came to a close with Sinner’s clash against Zverev.
Sinner fought off a full-blooded challenge from Zverev to successfully defend his Wimbledon title.
Pop sensation Jennifer Lopez, 56, looked the epitome of glamour as she arrived in a tight nude midi dress which she paired with a stylish hat and towering heels.
Elsewhere actress Nicole Kidman, 59, looked chic in a white suit as she joined Dame Anna Wintour in the Royal Box – where the Vogue icon enjoyed a rare laugh as she chatted to the Australian star.
Departing Strictly host Tess Daly, 57, and her daughter Phoebe, 21, Daisy Edgar-Jones, 28, Twiggy, 76, and Nicki Hilton, 42, also made their arrivals earlier in the afternoon and sported glamorous dresses.
Meanwhile Ben Stiller and Rami Malek looked delighted to see each other and hugged as they took their seats early in the Royal Box ahead of the doubles final match.
Also in the prestigious area – alongside the Prince and Princess of Wales and two of their three children George and Charlotte – was Sienna Miller, 44, who wore a pretty frilly mini dress.
Who is the charming Scottish voice behind Love Island?
Iain Stirling is the voice behind both the U.K. and U.S. editions of Love Island. During production, his schedule is remarkably hectic.
“By noon in the U.K., I begin my work on Love Island UK,” the comedian shared with TODAY in 2024. “By that time, most of the show is ready. We spend two to three hours writing, wrapping up around 4 or 4:30. Afterward, it’s family time with dinner, bath, and bedtime—while not exactly rock ‘n’ roll, that’s my reality. Then I have a bite to eat before logging on to Love Island USA at 8:30, corresponding to an early start on Fiji time.”
Stirling reviews a preliminary edit from home via Zoom, as executive producer Parrish told The Wrap. He and the team highlight amusing moments or important story elements, which Stirling records using his home microphone setup.
His commentary is inserted into the episode before it undergoes review by Peacock’s legals and standards team, who at times request last-minute adjustments.
“We’d try to finish by about 12 or 1 in the morning, then I’d stay up till half to 3 — which is still not the end of the show for the U.S.,” Stirling told TODAY. “In a dream world, I’d be staying up ‘til like, 5, 6, in the morning, but that would basically involve me never sleeping.”
Proof that the franchise can produce a forever bond: Stirling married former Love Island UK host Laura Whitmore in 2020 and they welcomed a daughter in March 2021.
In Sunday’s installment of “90 Day Fiancé,” viewers witnessed the repercussions of a heated confrontation between Mido and Debby, where he astonishingly shifted the blame onto her.
During a previous incident, producers had to intervene when Debby, aged 55, ousted Mido from her vehicle. This followed a tense altercation that began after Mido, 41, used offensive language towards her. The dispute was triggered by his unkind demeanor while meeting her friends during a Halloween celebration. Mido showed a lack of interest in their opinions, dismissing them outright.
The situation worsened when Debby’s friend Astra confronted him publicly, arguing over his disrespectful treatment of Debby.
In spite of Mido’s unsettling behavior, the recent episode revealed that Debby claimed he had been giving her the silent treatment in the weeks following their clash. Attempting to resolve their issues, she took him to the lakeside for a conversation, but he remained unwilling to acknowledge any culpability.
Debby confided in the cameras, remarking on Mido’s uncommunicative nature, “I’m just dealing with someone who lacks emotional maturity in various aspects.”
Mido told her he left Egypt and his family to be with Debby and that he deserved better. When Debby told him she loved him, he quickly got annoyed and boldly told her to stop telling him that.
“I’m not talk all the time, ‘I love you. I need you,’” he mocked her. “No.”
When Debby insisted she knew that he loved her even though he doesn’t say it, he again mocked her, sarcastically replying, “Very good. Excellent.”
Mido told Debby it was up to her to fix the situation if she wanted him to not go back to Egypt..
Debby noted, “Mido has turned this whole thing around on me, won’t even take responsibility for his side of it. It’s so frustrating.”
“Everything since he’s got here has been all about him,” she added, referring to Mido focusing more on trying to become a movie star in America than his relationship with her. “But relationships are about compromise, and he’s been single for a long time. I’m starting to see why.”
Later, Mido’s frosty attitude continued when Debby’s daughter, Devyn, walked into the room and commented on the tense atmosphere. He quickly shut her down, telling her that he needs “quiet and resting,” as he studied his own headshots.
Devyn and Debbie went out to get manicures and pedicures to have some alone time together, and Devyn told her mom she had serious concerns about her relationship with Mido. Debby insisted that she did not want to throw her six-year relationship with Mido away “on a whim,” though Devyn pointed out they’d been having issues for months.
Debby responded that they needed time, but Devyn noted that’s not a luxury they had seeing as they have to get married in 90 days for him to stay in the US. Debby said she needed Mido to tell her he loved her and to formally propose to her — two things he hasn’t done.
She admitted to cameras that she’s not sure Mido even loved her, but insisted that she hadn’t reached the point where she needed to break up with him.
Though she did admit, “I’m at my wits’ end with the whole thing.”
Todd Blanche slams Illinois governor for refusing federal help in Chicago
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has brought attention to the surge of violence in Chicago, highlighting the tragic outcome of eight fatalities and numerous others injured in shootings over the weekend. He expressed criticism towards Illinois Governor JB Pritzker for purportedly declining federal aid. Blanche compared the ongoing crisis in Chicago with the successful crime reduction models seen in Washington, D.C., and Memphis, underscoring the urgent need for collaboration between local and national authorities to quell the unrest.
A disturbing incident unfolded on Sunday in Illinois, where seven individuals within the same family were targeted in a mass shooting. Tragically, five of them succumbed to their injuries.
The Illinois State Police reported at a press conference that two 16-year-old teenagers have been apprehended in relation to the shootings.
As of now, formal charges have not been brought against the detained suspects.
Authorities have confirmed that the suspects, both teenagers, have been taken into custody concerning the shootings.(Illinois State Police)
Police said there were shootings at multiple locations in East St. Louis, Illinois, including at 39th and Summit, the Gompers public housing project and Jones Park.
Five people were killed while two others were transported to a hospital with serious injuries.
Police said there were shootings at multiple locations in East St. Louis, Illinois.(Getty Images)
“I just want to say these alleged acts of horrific violence, taking this number of lives here in this community — it’s terrible, it’s evil, but it will not keep this city down,” police said.
Officials further called the incident a “terrible, terrible act of violence.”
Officials called the incident a “terrible, terrible act of violence.”(Illinois State Police)
Police said there was no known threat to the public.
