In a news wrap on Thursday, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a Republican push for a new congressional map in Missouri that could have helped Republicans gain a seat. This decision has contributed to confusion among Missouri voters. Additionally, an appeals court upheld a block on President Trump's order to limit mail-in voting, while the Supreme Court is considering the same issue. The first mail ballots are already being sent out in Alabama, North Carolina, and Wisconsin.
Climate scientists reported that August was the hottest month ever recorded globally, with average temperatures around 62.5 degrees Fahrenheit, approximately three degrees above preindustrial levels. The European climate service Copernicus attributed this to human-caused climate change and a strong El Nino, warning that the impacts are expected to worsen. Samantha Burgess from the Copernicus Climate Change Service stated, "Every fraction of a degree of warming increases the likelihood of extremes becoming more intense, more frequent, and longer-lasting."
Further data indicates that the U.S. recorded its warmest summer on record, averaging 74.4 degrees across the Lower 48 states, about three degrees above normal.
In New York City, thousands of drones recreated the Twin Towers as the city prepares to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The aerial art show featured 2,977 drones, representing each person killed, forming the outlines of the towers at their full height. Organizers noted that the project was developed with input from victims' families, survivors, and first responders, aiming to provide a space for public remembrance and reflection.
On Wall Street, stocks faced challenges as oil prices reached their highest levels since May. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell approximately 300 points, while the Nasdaq decreased by more than half a percent, and the S&P 500 also closed lower.
Additionally, the sports world mourns the passing of Barry Melrose, a legendary hockey coach and commentator known for his sharp analysis and distinctive style. Melrose, who played six seasons as an NHL defenseman and coached the L.A. Kings to the Stanley Cup final in 1993, retired from broadcasting in 2023 after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at the age of 70.
Political journalist Roger Simon, known for his fearless reporting and insightful analysis as Politico's chief political columnist, also passed away. Simon had previously worked at The Sun-Times and was recognized for his connection with readers. His friend Dan Balz described him as a "craftsman of the first order" in an article for The Washington Post.