Policy & Law

Massachusetts Abortion Law Expansion Draws Criticism From Catholic Leaders, Prompts Calls for Church Action

Gov. Maura Healey signed legislation making Massachusetts the 10th state to permit abortion up to birth, sparking debate over whether Catholic politicians supporting such laws should face formal church discipline.

By Marcus Webb · Sunday, August 23, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Judge Denies Karmelo Anthony's Bid for New Trial After Ex-Lawyers Detail Dispute Over Testimony Access

Former attorneys argued courtroom restrictions and hearings held without Anthony present violated his rights, but Retired District Judge Michael Chitty denied the request without detailed explanation.

By Eleanor Cross · Sunday, August 23, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

UnHerd Opinion Piece Criticizes PinkNews Over Recent Scandals and Staff Cuts

The LGBTQ+ media outlet has faced a sexual misconduct scandal involving its founders, questions about Glassdoor reviews, and now fresh layoffs.

By Diane Park · Sunday, August 23, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

Puerto Ricans Reject 51st State Push as Residents Fear Economic Impact, Cultural Loss

A nonbinding November 2024 referendum showed 59% supported statehood, but on-the-ground interviews reveal deep concerns about taxes and federal integration.

By James Callahan · Sunday, August 23, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

Appeals Courts Reject DOJ Maneuver on Unconfirmed US Attorneys, Pushing Case Toward Supreme Court

Two appellate panels ruled within days that the Justice Department cannot sidestep Senate confirmation requirements by changing titles or reassigning duties to acting prosecutors.

By Eleanor Cross · Sunday, August 23, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

Appeals Courts Block DOJ Tactics on Installing Acting US Attorneys Without Senate Approval

Two federal appellate panels ruled in consecutive decisions that the Justice Department cannot circumvent confirmation requirements by simply reassigning titles or duties to acting prosecutors.

By James Callahan · Sunday, August 23, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

USPS Issues New Mail-In Ballot Guidelines under Trump Executive Order Despite Court Ruling

The 95-page unpublished report, set for official release Aug. 26, outlines stricter eligibility requirements for November's midterm elections.

By James Callahan · Saturday, August 22, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibition Enters Final Weeks at Museum of the Bible Before Fragments Return to Darkness for Conservation

The 1,000-year-old manuscripts will spend five years in complete darkness after their three-month display period ends September 7.

By Eleanor Cross · Saturday, August 22, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Chris Pratt's Ex-Wife Says She Questions Her 14-Year-Old Son About His Pro-Life Views

Anna Faris said on Chelsea Handler's podcast that she challenges Jack, whom she shares with the actor, about his conservative religious beliefs.

By Diane Park · Saturday, August 22, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

NYC-DSA Co-Chair Sued for Unpaid Rent in Brooklyn Apartment

Gustavo Gordillo faces eviction lawsuit while advocating for rent abolition, with landlord seeking $5,000 in missed payments through housing court.

By Marcus Webb · Saturday, August 22, 2026 · 4 min read