Houston ICE Shooting: Lawyer Claims Bags Contained Salt, Not Drugs

Andy Burnham will deliver his first speech as Labour leader on Friday, promising to have the "courage to fix the big things that politics has neglected." Burnham, who is set to be officially announced at a special conference, will outline his vision to give back control to communities and spread economic growth across the UK. Burnham's remarks come after a leadership contest that saw him emerge as the new head of the Labour Party. In his upcoming address, he is expected to emphasize a shift away from centralized decision-making and toward local empowerment. He aims to address issues that he says have been ignored by politicians for too long. "We need to fix the big things that have been neglected," Burnham plans to say. "That means giving communities more control over their own lives and ensuring that growth reaches every part of the country, not just a few." Burnham's election as Labour leader marks a new chapter for the party, which has been in opposition since 2010. He succeeds Keir Starmer, who stepped down earlier this year. As Mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham gained a reputation for his hands-on approach and focus on regional inequality. In his first speech, he will call for a more inclusive economy and a government that listens to local voices. He is also expected to touch on issues like housing, healthcare, and education, though specifics of his policy agenda are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer declined to answer questions about a report alleging that Senator Ruben Gallego had romantic relationships with Democratic House staff members. When asked by reporters, Schumer said he was focused on former President Donald Trump and did not address the specific allegations. The report, which has not been independently confirmed, claims that Gallego engaged in relationships with multiple staffers while serving in the House of Representatives. Gallego has not publicly responded to the allegations. Schumer's office did not provide further comment when reached by news outlets. Political observers note that Gallego, a Democrat from Arizona, is considered a rising star in the party. The allegations could become a distraction as Democrats prepare for upcoming elections. However, Schumer's decision to avoid the topic may reflect a strategy to keep the party's messaging centered on Trump and Republican policies. The allegations were first reported by a conservative news outlet, but no official investigation has been announced. Schumer's remarks came during a press conference where he discussed Democratic priorities, including infrastructure and voting rights. He did not take additional questions about Gallego.

In his newly released memoir, US Vice President JD Vance describes a 2013 visit to a castle in north Wales as the 'coolest thing I've ever seen.' The experience, he writes, gave him a new perspective on history and his own life. Vance, who rose to fame with his 2016 book 'Hillbilly Elegy,' details the trip in his latest work, which covers his journey from a troubled childhood in Ohio to the vice presidency. The castle visit occurred before his political career took off, during a period of personal exploration. While he does not name the specific castle, north Wales is home to several medieval fortresses, including Conwy and Caernarfon. Vance describes being awed by the structure's scale and age, saying it made him reflect on the passage of time and the stories of those who built it. The memoir, released this week, has drawn attention for its candid reflections on Vance's past. This anecdote highlights how travel and historical sites can leave lasting impressions on individuals, even those who later hold high office. Vance's account offers readers a glimpse into a moment that shaped his worldview.

Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike has entered its nineteenth day, raising serious health concerns. The activist, from the Ladakh region, has been fasting to press for demands related to the protection of local rights and environment. On Sunday, farmer leader Rakesh Tikait joined the protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, strengthening the ongoing agitation. He was accompanied by hundreds of farmers who came in support. Delhi's former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal also extended his support, calling for the removal of a minister opposed to Wangchuk's demands. Several other opposition leaders and parties have voiced solidarity. Congress leaders urged Wangchuk to end his fast while assuring him that they would continue to push for his demands. Meanwhile, doctors have warned of serious health complications if the hunger strike continues, as Wangchuk's health is deteriorating. The protest has drawn significant attention, with hundreds gathered at the site. Wangchuk is known for his work in education and environmental conservation, and his fasting has sparked a broader discussion on the issues facing the Ladakh region.

The White House is facing widespread opposition to a proposed policy that would allow political reviews of federal grants. Academics, city officials, and members of Congress are among thousands urging the Trump administration to reconsider the plan, which critics say could inject partisan politics into the distribution of research funding and other grants. The policy would require grant applications to undergo scrutiny by political appointees before approval, raising concerns about potential bias and interference with scientific and community projects. Supporters argue it ensures accountability, but opponents warn it undermines the merit-based process. The backlash highlights ongoing tensions between the administration and various groups over the role of politics in federal spending.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday proposed that education reformer Sonam Wangchuk should be made India's education minister. Kejriwal made the statement while visiting Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, where Wangchuk is leading a protest against alleged irregularities in national exams, including the NEET medical entrance test. Wangchuk, known for his educational innovations in Ladakh, has been camping at Jantar Mantar with supporters demanding reforms in the examination system. Kejriwal expressed solidarity with the protest and praised Wangchuk's work, suggesting he would be ideal to lead the education ministry. Kejriwal's comments come amid ongoing controversy over the NEET exam, with accusations of leaks and mismanagement. The protest has drawn attention to broader issues in India's education system. Wangchuk has not responded to the suggestion. Kejriwal's proposal is seen as a political move, as his party Aam Aadmi Party has often criticized the central government's education policies. However, the appointment of a minister is a decision of the prime minister. The incident highlights the growing demand for systemic changes in education governance.