April 12, 2024: Friday Morning News

House Republicans are making a second attempt to advance a bill to reauthorize government surveillance powers under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which is set to expire next week. FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized the importance of this tool in the fight against foreign adversaries like China and Russia. However, Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan and other Republicans are pushing for additional provisions to protect individual privacy rights, causing a delay in the bill’s passage.

Meanwhile, President Biden met with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines at the White House to address the common threat posed by China. The leaders discussed economic growth, development progress, and mutual defense commitments in the face of escalating tensions in the South China Sea. Prime Minister Kishida of Japan also addressed Congress, highlighting the importance of American leadership on the global stage.

In other news, the Biden administration announced a new rule to close the ‘gun show loophole’ by requiring background checks for all gun dealers at gun shows. This policy is aimed at saving lives and preventing gun violence. Additionally, Harvard University has reinstated mandatory standardized testing requirements for all applicants, citing research that shows standardized testing is less biased and predictive of student success.

Lastly, the world mourns the passing of O.J. Simpson, a former football star and actor who became infamous for his involvement in a high-profile murder trial in 1994. Despite his controversial acquittal, Simpson faced civil liability and served time in prison on unrelated charges. His legacy remains a complex and controversial chapter in American history.