5 vital points for August 21st: Democratic National Committee, Chicago demonstrations, RFK Jr., Ukraine developments, and a superyacht's sinking.
Here's what you need to know to Keep Yourself Informed and Carry On with Your Day
Get 5 Pieces of Information in your Inbox
Your day is hectic. 5 Pieces is your one-stop shop for the newest headlines, alongside other stories and videos that individuals are clicking on. Sign up here for the 5 Pieces newsletter.
1. DNC
Previous President Barack Obama, previous first lady Michelle Obama and second gentleman Doug Emhoff were the main speakers on Tuesday at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The Obamas presented an emotional call to American voters and vowed to continue their efforts to support Vice President Kamala Harris in the final 11 weeks of her presidential campaign. Emhoff utilized his speech to present a personal side of Harris, whom he described as the anchor of their family. While Harris missed evening two of the DNC to campaign in Milwaukee, she symbolically accepted the party’s presidential nomination after delegates at the convention held a ceremonial roll call. The lineup for today includes Harris’ running mate Tim Walz, former President Bill Clinton, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
In today’s “One Thing” podcast, CNN’s David Rind travels to the DNC to hear from Democrats about how Harris has energized the race — and if that enthusiasm will translate into votes. Listen here.
2. Chicago protests
Large protests are occurring outside the Democratic National Convention this week, including encounters with police in the streets of Chicago. Crews installed additional security fences in the area on Tuesday — a day after a group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators, rallying against US support for Israel in its war against Hamas, breached a barrier near the United Center. Tuesday’s protests also saw some tense moments outside the Israeli Consulate in Chicago where protesters and police in helmets began pushing and shoving, a CNN crew observed. Hundreds of officers have taken to the streets, clearing the roadway and sidewalks. It’s uncertain how many arrests occurred Tuesday but multiple individuals appeared to be detained by police.
3. RFK Jr.
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is contemplating leaving the 2024 race and endorsing former President Donald Trump, his running mate Nicole Shanahan said in an interview Tuesday. She framed the decision as an effort to reduce “the risk” of Vice President Kamala Harris becoming president, arguing Kennedy pulls more votes from Trump than from Harris. When asked about the role Kennedy could play in a future Trump administration, Shanahan speculated that her running mate may be open to taking a role as secretary of health and human services. Trump said Tuesday he would “certainly” be open to Kennedy playing a role in his administration. This comes as new filings also show Kennedy is facing dwindling campaign resources and nearly $3.5 million in outstanding debts.
4. Ukraine
Russian authorities today accused Ukraine of launching “one of the largest ever” attempts to attack Moscow with drones. Russia stated their defense systems had damaged 45 Ukrainian drones overnight — including 11 over Moscow, two over the Belgorod border region and two in Kursk. Since the Ukrainian incursion began nearly two weeks ago, its forces are inching forward in Kursk and destroying key bridges in an effort to cripple Moscow’s logistical capabilities and disrupt supply routes. Separately, Russian authorities have urged people in the border regions to stop using dating apps and limit their use of social media to prevent Ukrainian forces from gathering intelligence as they press on with their advance.
5. Superyacht sinks
Italian authorities continued their search today for six missing individuals after a tornado sank a luxury yacht Monday off the coast of Sicily. Fifteen passengers were rescued from the boat shortly after it capsized, according to Italy’s Coast Guard. One body was later recovered from the hull of the stricken vessel, called the “Bayesian.” Two Americans and four Britons are among those missing — including British tech tycoon Mike Lynch, Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International, and Chris Morvillo, a prominent lawyer. Initial reports suggest a small waterspout, which developed over the area Monday, could have been behind the yacht’s sinking.
BREAKFAST BROWSE
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are divorcing after two years“Bennifer” is filing for separation ... once more. Here’s what we know about their split.
An airport in Japan shut down because a pair of scissors went missingAirport officials eventually discovered the tools, but some travelers were quite frustrated about the hours-long delays.
Delicious canned pumpkin recipesThe official start of fall is over a month away but it’s never too early for — dare I say it — pumpkin recipes. Here’s how canned pumpkin can effortlessly be incorporated into every part of your meal.
New study shows the link between red meat and type 2 diabetesMany individuals attempt to reduce red and processed meat consumption for heart health or environmental reasons. A comprehensive study published Tuesday explains how replacing red meat can lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Billions of crabs vanished around Alaska. Scientists have evidence it will happen againThe decline of the Alaskan snow crab signals a broader ecosystem change in the Arctic, as oceans warm and sea ice disappears.
Here's the paraphrased text:
$1.9 billionThat's the amount Alaska Airlines declared they'd be shelling out to purchase Hawaiian Airlines. "The merger will significantly enhance the number of direct or one-stop destinations in North America that Hawaii locals can reach without transfers," Hawaii's Governor Josh Green mentioned following the merger's approval by the Department of Justice's review.
TODAY’S QUOTE
"Mpox is not the latest Covid."
— The World Health Organization, urging for a unified response to the ongoing mpox outbreak as officials strive to curb fears about the virus. Thousands of mpox cases have surfaced in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and one confirmed case has emerged in Sweden—the first outside of Africa. At least one suspect case is also under investigation in Argentina, according to health officials this week.
TODAY’S WEATHER
Check your local forecast here>>>
AND FINALLY ...
What truly goes down at art auctions?From the build-up to the sale to the final gavel drop, former Christie’s CEO Steven Murphy provides insights into the auction process.
- Despite the hectic nature of your day, make sure to sign up for the 5 Pieces newsletter so you can stay informed and continue your day with the latest headlines.
- The Democratic National Convention in Chicago saw an emotional call to action from the Obamas and Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate Tim Walz, urging American voters to carry on and support their campaign, which is crucial for us as citizens.
