April 19, 2024: Friday Morning News

A jury of 12 people has been selected for the hush money case against former President Donald Trump in New York, with the court now focusing on choosing alternates. Defense attorney Arthur Aidala noted the unusual request for six alternates instead of the usual two, citing the judge’s desire to avoid a mistrial. Two jurors were dismissed due to concerns about their impartiality, setting the stage for the first-ever trial of a former American president during a White House election year.

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden campaigned in Pennsylvania, receiving endorsements from members of the Kennedy family in a strategic move to counter independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s candidacy. The appearance of the Kennedys alongside Biden was seen as an attempt to boost his support and undermine RFK Jr.’s potential impact on the election.

In response to Iran’s recent airstrike against Israel, the United States and the UK imposed additional economic sanctions on Iran, targeting individuals and entities linked to Iran’s military. The move was condemned by UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron at a G7 meeting in Italy, emphasizing the need to send a message to Iran and show support for Israel.

In domestic politics, House Speaker Mike Johnson faced threats to his position as he struggled to pass a foreign aid package. Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene threatened to introduce a motion to vacate the speakership, echoing a previous move by Congressman Matt Gaetz. Despite challenges, Johnson continued to work on passing bills funding Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel.

Lastly, more than 100 people were arrested at Columbia University during a pro-Palestinian protest, prompting Mayor Eric Adams to intervene and enforce the university’s rules. The arrests included Irsa Hirsi, daughter of Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, highlighting tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and concerns about antisemitism on campus.