Reminders of the oppression that African Americans suffered are still on display in the United States Capitol, taking the form of 12 statues of figures affiliated with the Confederate States of America and post-Civil War segregation.
Washington
Biden administration readies new sanctions against Russia, urges House to pass Ukraine aid
The Biden administration is preparing a new package of sanctions against Russia to be unveiled. A move to hold Vladimir Putin responsible for the recent death of Alexei Navalny and the two-year war against Ukraine.
As Assange faces extradition to US, experts see threats to press freedom
As Wikileaks founder Julian Assange’s legal team makes its last appeal to prevent an extradition to the United States over Espionage Act charges, press freedom experts said they are concerned about how the this case could harm journalists’ First Amendment rights.
Maryland’s House Democrats press Republicans to pass Ukraine aid
Maryland’s House Democrats are criticizing Speaker Mike Johnson, R-Louisiana, for refusing to hear the Senate-approved foreign aid package that includes Ukraine and Israel.
Anti-war protesters confront House hearing on Houthi threat
As lawmakers reviewed increasing Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea, anti-war protesters confronted a House hearing Wednesday over U.S. military involvement in the Middle East.
Van Hollen, Democrats plan push for stronger policy protecting civilians from American weapons used by allies
Even though the White House has taken steps aimed at protecting civilians from American weapons in war zones, Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Maryland, said that he would press for a stronger response.
Supreme Court will decide if cities can punish homelessness while a record number of people sleep on the street
The U.S. Supreme Court will decide if local governments can punish homeless people who sleep or camp outside.
House committee passes bill streamlining US arms sales
After U.S. arms exports hit a record high in 2023, the House Foreign Affairs Committee voted to advance legislation aimed at speeding up U.S. arms exports.
Maryland’s Hogan makes surprise entry into GOP race for US Senate
Hogan, a Republican, announced his campaign on Friday via social media, releasing a video just nine hours before Maryland’s candidacy deadline and surprising a lot of political observers.
Annual Smithsonian orchid exhibit highlights plant conservation and protection
Smithsonian Gardens and the United States Botanic Garden have opened their annual orchid exhibit. This year’s theme is “The Future of Orchids: Conservation and Collaboration.”