The first day of Donald Trump's historic hush-money trial concluded Monday with opening statements from both sides and testimony from its first witness. Watch in for more details!

Trump's hush money trial: Donald Trump accused of 'pure' election fraud

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has rejected suggestions that Washington might have double standards. This is of course when applying a US law to allegations of abuses by the Israeli military in Gaza.

Blinken on Gaza rights abuses: We apply the same standard to everyone

A man set himself on fire, on Friday (Apr 19) outside the New York courthouse where former United States President Donald Trump’s historic trial was underway, according to American media reports. The police later confirmed the incident and said that the person is&nbsp;in critical condition and was&nbsp;in the Cornell Burn Unit.&nbsp;

The shocking incident took place after the full panel, which included 12 jurors and six alternates, was selected. The judge after the selection of the full panel said that he expects the trial to begin on Monday (Apr 22).

The charges are related to the case where Trump has been accused of paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels and falsifying business records to cover the payments.

<h2>Man sets himself on fire</h2>

New York Police Department Chief&nbsp;Jeffrey&nbsp;Maddrey said that the&nbsp;man walked into the centre&nbsp;of Collect Pond Park, which is directly across from the Manhattan&nbsp;courthouse where Trump is on trial. Subsequently, he opened his backpack and took out pamphlets that he scattered in the park.

“And then he pulls out a canister and pours some kind of liquid on himself...and he lights himself on fire," said&nbsp;Maddrey. The people and officers around the man&nbsp;try to&nbsp;put the fire out using their coats and fire extinguishers.&nbsp;

He also noted that the man did not&nbsp;breach security protocols as the park was open to the public.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Jury selected for Donald Trump's historic criminal hush money trial

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“I see a totally charred human being,” one of the CNN reporters said on air. A person on the scene told Reuters that he first heard the man throwing pamphlets into the air, then saw him douse himself from a can before setting himself on fire.

“At that point, I said, ‘Oh shoot, what am I going to see?’” the witness, who called himself Dave and declined to give his last name, told the news agency, adding that the man burned for several minutes.&nbsp;

A New York emergency official said that the person was taken away on a stretcher after apparently setting himself on fire as the police quickly secured the scene of the incident.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-in-three-us-adults-think-trump-did-something-illegal-as-historic-hush-money-trial-gets-underway-712042">Only one-third of Americans think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway</a>

One of the pamphlets, according to Reuters, referred to “evil billionaires” and called on people to “expose this corruption.”

Kaz Daughtry, the New York Police Department deputy commissioner of operations took to X and said "there are no public safety threats, please expect increased traffic congestion in the area as our detectives conduct their investigation."&nbsp;

<h2>‘We have our full panel’</h2>

The shocking incident took place outside the Manhattan courthouse as the alternates for the jury were being selected. “We have our full panel,” said Judge Juan Merchan after the selection of the five alternates.&nbsp;

After the selection, the last five alternates, four women and one man, were sworn in. Merchan expects the trial to begin on Monday and instructed jurors not to discuss the case with others or research it.

He also said that there are 18 jurors in total and we cannot start until all are present each day.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-hush-money-trial-court-selects-12-jurors-an-alternate-announces-we-have-our-jury-712751">Trump's hush money trial: Court selects 12 jurors &amp; an alternate, announces 'we have our jury'</a>

Trump is the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges.&nbsp;

However, the former president has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat.&nbsp;

The indictment includes charges of accounting fraud and falsifying business records to cover up the $130,000 payment to Daniels ahead of the 2016 presidential election. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A man set himself on fire, on Friday (Apr 19) outside the New York courthouse where former United States President Donald Trump’s historic trial was underway, according to American media reports.

A man set himself on fire, on Friday (Apr 19) outside the New York courthouse where former United States President Donald Trump’s historic trial was underway, according to American media reports. The police later confirmed the incident and said that the person is in critical condition and was in the Cornell Burn Unit. The shocking incident took place after the full panel, which included 12 jurors and six alternates, was selected. The judge after the selection of the full panel said that he expects the trial to begin on Monday (Apr 22). The charges are related to the case where Trump has been accused of paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels and falsifying business records to cover the payments. Man sets himself on fire New York Police Department Chief Jeffrey Maddrey said that the man walked into the centre of Collect Pond Park, which is directly across from the Manhattan courthouse where Trump is on trial. Subsequently, he opened his backpack and took out pamphlets that he scattered in the park. “And then he pulls out a canister and pours some kind of liquid on himself...and he lights himself on fire," said Maddrey. The people and officers around the man try to put the fire out using their coats and fire extinguishers. He also noted that the man did not breach security protocols as the park was open to the public. WATCH | Jury selected for Donald Trump's historic criminal hush money trial “I see a totally charred human being,” one of the CNN reporters said on air. A person on the scene told Reuters that he first heard the man throwing pamphlets into the air, then saw him douse himself from a can before setting himself on fire. “At that point, I said, ‘Oh shoot, what am I going to see?’” the witness, who called himself Dave and declined to give his last name, told the news agency, adding that the man burned for several minutes. A New York emergency official said that the person was taken away on a stretcher after apparently setting himself on fire as the police quickly secured the scene of the incident. Also Read | Only one-third of Americans think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway One of the pamphlets, according to Reuters, referred to “evil billionaires” and called on people to “expose this corruption.” Kaz Daughtry, the New York Police Department deputy commissioner of operations took to X and said "there are no public safety threats, please expect increased traffic congestion in the area as our detectives conduct their investigation." ‘We have our full panel’ The shocking incident took place outside the Manhattan courthouse as the alternates for the jury were being selected. “We have our full panel,” said Judge Juan Merchan after the selection of the five alternates. After the selection, the last five alternates, four women and one man, were sworn in. Merchan expects the trial to begin on Monday and instructed jurors not to discuss the case with others or research it. He also said that there are 18 jurors in total and we cannot start until all are present each day. Also Read | Trump's hush money trial: Court selects 12 jurors & an alternate, announces 'we have our jury' Trump is the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges. However, the former president has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat. The indictment includes charges of accounting fraud and falsifying business records to cover up the $130,000 payment to Daniels ahead of the 2016 presidential election. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump hush money trial: Man sets himself on fire outside NY court; full jury, six alternates selected

A full jury of 12 people has been seated in the criminal case against Donald Trump, bringing the first criminal trial of a former president a significant step closer to the beginning.

Jury selected for Donald Trump's historic criminal hush money trial

Donald Trump's trial and the impact it will have on elections. Let's talk about the man in this image next to him Michael Cohen, Trump's former attorney who had back in 2017 said that he would take a bullet for Donald Trump. He's now years later taking the stand against the Republican leader.

Trump on Trial: Friend turned foe? Former Trump aide Michael Cohen becomes star witness

Former US President Donald Trump and Polish President, Andrzej Duda discussed the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East over dinner Wednesday in New York. Watch in for more details!

Donald Trump meets Polish president Andrzej Duda in New York

On the second day of the United States former president Donald Trump's hush money trial case, seven Manhattan residents were selected as the jurors. Watch to know more.

Trump Hush-Money trial: Trump on trial, jury selection underway

Trump Hush-Money trial: Historic criminal Hush-Money trial begins, seven jurors selected on Day 2

Donald Trump is facing trial related to a hush money payment case. Trump is making history by becoming the first former US president to sit in a courtroom for a criminal trial just months ahead of the US presidential elections. Watch to know more.

Trump's hush-money trial resumes in New York

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - G7 leaders reaffirm support for Israel - Two officers killed in New York shootin - Hush money probe: Stormy times for Doanld Trump - China keeps key policy rate unchanged - Russia aims to capture Chasiv Yar by May 9: Ukraine

Two officers killed in New York shooting | China keeps key policy rate unchanged

Donald Trump will appear in a New York courtroom on Monday, becoming the first former US president to face a criminal trial. Watch to know more.

Donald Trump's Hush Money Trial on track, Trump to go to trial in New York today

Donald Trump is facing trial related to a hush money payment case. Trump is making history by becoming the first former US president to sit in a courtroom for a criminal trial just months ahead of the US presidential elections. Watch in for more details!

Trump on trial: Donald Trump's hush-money trial begins

Trump Hush Money Trial: Former US President Trump goes on trial in New York

Policymakers in New York have proposed contraception to reduce the population of rats and other rodents in the city. The city government proposed the idea of distributing rat contraceptives after an escaped zoo owl, known as Flaco, died due to rat poison.

Policymakers in New York have proposed contraception to reduce the population of rats and other rodents in the city. The city government proposed the idea of distributing rat contraceptives after an escaped zoo owl, known as Flaco, died due to rat poison. On Thursday, City Council Member Shaun Abreu, who is the chair of the Committee on Sanitation and Solid Waste Management, presented a city ordinance to launch a pilot programme for handling millions of rats lurking in subway stations and empty lots by using birth control instead of lethal chemicals used in glue traps and rat poison that lead to a slow, brutal death. He said contraceptives are more ethical and humane than other methods. They plan to use ContraPest, which targets ovarian function in female rats and disrupts sperm cell production in males, The New York Times reported. The current methods to kill rats include snap and glue traps, rat poisons, and carbon monoxide. While rat poisons make them bleed internally, carbon monoxide suffocates them in their burrows. Some non-professionals have even trained their dogs to hunt rats. ALSO READ | A land in Australia, which has drowned, was once Aboriginal hotspot in ice age Some lawmakers in Albany have proposed a statewide ban on snap and glue traps. Rashad Edwards, a film and television actor who runs a pest management company in New York City with his wife, opposes the idea of glue traps and says that carbon monoxide is the most efficient way to deal with rats and rodents. While carbon monoxide kills the rats slowly, putting them to sleep and killing them, Edwards avoids rat poison as it is dangerous and torturous to rodents. "This is not a problem we can kill our way out of," said Jakob Shaw of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. "It's time to embrace these more common sense and humane methods." In recent years, two California cities have passed bans on glue traps. "It ends an inhumane practice of managing rat populations. There are more effective and humane ways to deal with rats," said Jabari Brisport, the New York state senator." Last year, New York Mayor Eric Adams hired a "rat czar" to deal with the detested rodents. Last month, New York Coty mandated all businesses to put trash in boxes to reduce the food served to rats. (With inputs from agencies)

New York to use contraceptives instead of glue traps and poison to get rid of rats

Stormy times for Donald Trump as hush money trial is back on track

Earthquakes and aftershocks struck the East coast of the US on Friday, causing the buildings to shake and rattling nerves from Maryland to Maine. It's been termed as the biggest earthquake to hit the US coast in a century.

US Earthquake: Rare earthquake hits New York, felt across border area

US Earthquake: No reports of injuries or damage after earthquake, UNSC meet paused after tremor

In the latest, a shooting at a Florida mall has killed&nbsp;two, and injured&nbsp;seven. In other news,&nbsp;Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Punjab province in Pakistan, expressed that Chinese residents in Pakistan become unhappy when asked to follow security protocols. This was in connection to the recent suicide bombing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that killed five&nbsp;Chinese engineers.&nbsp;In a separate incident, New York was struck by an unusual 4.7 magnitude earthquake, with videos of the event now widely shared on social media.

Click on the headlines to read more.

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<img alt="1 dead, 1 injured in shooting at Ocala, Florida, shopping mall, police say | CNN" src="https://media.cnn.com/api/v1/images/stellar/prod/231223175542-01-paddock-mall-florida-1223-still.jpg?c=16x9&amp;q=h_833,w_1480,c_fill" />

A shooting incident at a bustling shopping mall in Florida has resulted in the deaths of two people&nbsp;and injuries to seven others. According to Miami-Dade police, a confrontation erupted at the Martini Bar within the CityPlace Doral premises early Saturday morning (April 6).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinese-in-pakistan-do-not-want-to-follow-security-discipline-maryam-nawaz-says-after-suicide-bombing-708438">'Chinese in Pakistan do not want to follow security discipline': Maryam Nawaz says after suicide bombing</a>

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Maryam Nawaz, Punjab province's Chief Minister in Pakistan, stated on Friday (April 5) that Chinese residents in Pakistan feel upset when they are requested to adhere to security measures. She made these comments a week following a suicide bombing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that claimed the lives of five&nbsp; Chinese engineers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-unsc-meeting-interrupted-statue-of-liberty-shakes-after-rare-earthquake-rattles-new-york-708338">UNSC meeting interrupted, Statue of Liberty shakes after rare earthquake rattles New York</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/06/423301-wion-images-2024-04-06t132351557.png?imwidth=400" />

New York, which is on the east coast of the United States, was hit by a rare earthquake of 4.7 magnitude, on Friday (Apr 5), according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). During the quake, buildings rattled sparking panic among residents since NYC is not in an earthquake-prone region.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-troops-recover-body-of-hostage-from-gazas-khan-younis-military-says-708410">Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/06/423348-succession-2024-04-06t182041551.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The Israeli military on Saturday (Apr 6) said that its army personnel recovered the body of a hostage who was held captive by Hamas when it launched an unprecedented assault against Israel on October 7 last year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-want-a-drug-test-trump-says-biden-was-higher-than-kite-at-state-of-the-union-address-708400">‘I want a drug test’: Trump says Biden was ‘higher than kite’ at State of the Union address</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/25/381760-wion-images-2023-09-25t002220551.png?imwidth=400" />

Donald Trump has insinuated that President Joe Biden may have been under the influence of drugs during his State of the Union (SOTU) address last month. The former Republican presidential candidate made these comments during an interview with radio broadcaster Hugh Hewitt on Thursday (April 4). Referring to reports of cocaine being found in the White House in July last year, Trump claimed, without offering evidence, that Biden was "all jacked up" and "higher than a kite" during his March address.

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/21/419856-untitled-design.png?imwidth=400" />

Following an Israeli strike on Iran's consulate in Syria, United States is on high alert for a possible attack by Iran aimed at Israeli or American assets in the region, reported&nbsp;Reuters, citing a US official.

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/06/423321-nia.png?imwidth=400" />

During a raid conducted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in the East Medinipur district of West Bengal on Saturday (Apr 6), officers of the agency were attacked by locals&nbsp; and one of them sustained injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/25/327979-untitled-design-2023-01-25t132811704.png?imwidth=400" />

Sonam Wangchuk, a well-known climate activist, has expressed deep concern about the growing tensions in Leh, Ladakh. Wangchuk, known for his work in schools reforms and environmental advocacy, condemned the government's actions, including the deployment of "disproportionate force, barricades, and smoke grenades," as well as efforts to arrest peaceful young leaders.

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/06/423340-succession-2024-04-06t174617280.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Aam Admi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Saturday (Apr 6) hit out at the Enforcement Directorate stating that the probe agency has established no money trail in the Delhi excise policy scam probe, yet it arrested AAP leaders on the basis of mere doubt.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-excise-policy-case-no-relief-for-manish-sisodia-as-his-judicial-custody-gets-extended-till-april-18-708322">Delhi excise policy case: No relief for Manish Sisodia as his judicial custody gets extended till April 18</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/06/423296-untitled-design-63.png?imwidth=400" />

A Delhi court on Saturday (Apr 6) extended the judicial custody of former deputy chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia till April 18 in connection with the money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy. A report by the news agency PTI said that special Judge Kaveri Baweja extended Sisodia’s judicial custody after he was produced before the court on the expiry of the judicial custody granted earlier.

In the latest, a shooting at a Florida mall has killed two, and injured seven. In other news, Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Punjab province in Pakistan, expressed that Chinese residents in Pakistan become unhappy when asked to follow security protocols.

In the latest, a shooting at a Florida mall has killed two, and injured seven. In other news, Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Punjab province in Pakistan, expressed that Chinese residents in Pakistan become unhappy when asked to follow security protocols. This was in connection to the recent suicide bombing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that killed five Chinese engineers. In a separate incident, New York was struck by an unusual 4.7 magnitude earthquake, with videos of the event now widely shared on social media. Click on the headlines to read more. US: Two dead, seven injured in shooting at Florida shopping mall A shooting incident at a bustling shopping mall in Florida has resulted in the deaths of two people and injuries to seven others. According to Miami-Dade police, a confrontation erupted at the Martini Bar within the CityPlace Doral premises early Saturday morning (April 6). 'Chinese in Pakistan do not want to follow security discipline': Maryam Nawaz says after suicide bombing Maryam Nawaz, Punjab province's Chief Minister in Pakistan, stated on Friday (April 5) that Chinese residents in Pakistan feel upset when they are requested to adhere to security measures. She made these comments a week following a suicide bombing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that claimed the lives of five Chinese engineers. UNSC meeting interrupted, Statue of Liberty shakes after rare earthquake rattles New York New York, which is on the east coast of the United States, was hit by a rare earthquake of 4.7 magnitude, on Friday (Apr 5), according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). During the quake, buildings rattled sparking panic among residents since NYC is not in an earthquake-prone region. Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says The Israeli military on Saturday (Apr 6) said that its army personnel recovered the body of a hostage who was held captive by Hamas when it launched an unprecedented assault against Israel on October 7 last year. ‘I want a drug test’: Trump says Biden was ‘higher than kite’ at State of the Union address Donald Trump has insinuated that President Joe Biden may have been under the influence of drugs during his State of the Union (SOTU) address last month. The former Republican presidential candidate made these comments during an interview with radio broadcaster Hugh Hewitt on Thursday (April 4). Referring to reports of cocaine being found in the White House in July last year, Trump claimed, without offering evidence, that Biden was "all jacked up" and "higher than a kite" during his March address. US on high alert over Iran attack threat in retaliation to Israeli strike on consulate in Syria Following an Israeli strike on Iran's consulate in Syria, United States is on high alert for a possible attack by Iran aimed at Israeli or American assets in the region, reported Reuters, citing a US official. NIA team attacked in West Bengal’s East Medinipur during raid, officer injured During a raid conducted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in the East Medinipur district of West Bengal on Saturday (Apr 6), officers of the agency were attacked by locals and one of them sustained injuries. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk claims government wants to brand ‘Ladakhis as anti-nationals’ Sonam Wangchuk, a well-known climate activist, has expressed deep concern about the growing tensions in Leh, Ladakh. Wangchuk, known for his work in schools reforms and environmental advocacy, condemned the government's actions, including the deployment of "disproportionate force, barricades, and smoke grenades," as well as efforts to arrest peaceful young leaders. After EC notice, AAP’s Atishi slams ED, asks agency to take action against BJP over ‘money laundering’ Aam Admi Party (AAP) leader Atishi on Saturday (Apr 6) hit out at the Enforcement Directorate stating that the probe agency has established no money trail in the Delhi excise policy scam probe, yet it arrested AAP leaders on the basis of mere doubt. Delhi excise policy case: No relief for Manish Sisodia as his judicial custody gets extended till April 18 A Delhi court on Saturday (Apr 6) extended the judicial custody of former deputy chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia till April 18 in connection with the money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy. A report by the news agency PTI said that special Judge Kaveri Baweja extended Sisodia’s judicial custody after he was produced before the court on the expiry of the judicial custody granted earlier.

Top 10 world news: Two killed in Florida mall shooting; Pak action after suicide bombing, and more

Watch in Top Headlines of the hour: - Indian Student dies in Ohio - WCK demands independent probe - Fresh peace talks begin in Cairo - Iran, Hezbollah turn up heat on Israel

US Earthquake: Biggest quake in US East in 100 years | Indian Students dies in Ohio

US Earthquake: 4.8 earthquake jolts US' New Jersey, tremors felt in New York

New York, which is on the east coast of the United States, was hit by a rare earthquake of 4.7 magnitude, on Friday (Apr 5), according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). During the quake, buildings rattled sparking panic among residents since NYC is not in an earthquake-prone region.&nbsp;

<h2>‘You’re making the ground shake’</h2>

The earthquake occurred on Friday morning around 10:23 am (local time) while Janti Soeripto, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Save the Children US was addressing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rare-earthquake-of-47-magnitude-rocks-new-york-new-jersey-708142">Rare earthquake of 4.7 magnitude rocks New York, New Jersey</a>

Soeripto was speaking about the sufferings of the women and children in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas when tremors were felt in the room. Subsequently, delegates were seen looking around and the room fell silent.&nbsp;

“Was that an earthquake,” she asked, to which Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour, who was sitting next to her said, “Yeah. You’re making the ground shake,” leading some to chuckle.&nbsp;

“Madam President, Am I ok to continue?” Soeripto asked before continuing with her statement.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: “You’re making the ground shake!” UN Security Council hears as mid-morning <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> interrupts briefing on the situation in the Middle East. <a href="https://t.co/1F8TZBHKKu">pic.twitter.com/1F8TZBHKKu</a>
— UN News (@UN_News_Centre) <a href="https://twitter.com/UN_News_Centre/status/1776262950359085313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Statue of Liberty shakes, NYC skyline during the quake</h2>

The epicentre, according to the USGS, was near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. However, the quake was felt across New Jersey, NYC, western Connecticut, and northern Pennsylvania, reported Reuters. The depth of the epicentre was 5 kilometres, as per the US government agency.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-aftershocks-rattle-new-jersey-708223">4.0 magnitude aftershock recorded in New Jersey, little damage reported</a>

A video by EarthCam also showed the NYC skyline the moment that the earthquake – one of the strongest quakes on the east coast in the last century – also rattled NYC’s iconic landmark the Statue of Liberty.&nbsp;

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EarthCam captured the moment a 4.8-magnitude earthquake recorded in New Jersey shook residents in surrounding states and New York City on Friday morning. The earthquake was the strongest in NJ since 1884. <a href="https://t.co/cKXmXqmxtW">pic.twitter.com/cKXmXqmxtW</a>
— EarthCam (@EarthCam) <a href="https://twitter.com/EarthCam/status/1776293926011367717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In a series of posts on X, another historic structure that stands out on the NYC skyline, the Empire State Building confirmed that it was doing just fine after the earthquake. “I AM FINE,” said the post on Friday.&nbsp;

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I AM FINE
— Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmpireStateBldg/status/1776254633599480130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After a second earthquake&nbsp;of magnitude 4.0 was reported in New Jersey on Friday, the Empire State Building yet again took to X and said, “NOT AGAIN,” and in a subsequent post said, “I AM STILL FINE”.&nbsp;

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I AM STILL FINE
— Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmpireStateBldg/status/1776369314565599282?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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There have been at least 12 aftershocks that registered 1.8 or more on the Richter scale, according to the USGS.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

New York, which is on the east coast of the United States, was hit by a rare earthquake of 4.7 magnitude, on Friday (Apr 5), according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).

New York, which is on the east coast of the United States, was hit by a rare earthquake of 4.7 magnitude, on Friday (Apr 5), according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). During the quake, buildings rattled sparking panic among residents since NYC is not in an earthquake-prone region. ‘You’re making the ground shake’ The earthquake occurred on Friday morning around 10:23 am (local time) while Janti Soeripto, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Save the Children US was addressing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Also Read | Rare earthquake of 4.7 magnitude rocks New York, New Jersey Soeripto was speaking about the sufferings of the women and children in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas when tremors were felt in the room. Subsequently, delegates were seen looking around and the room fell silent. “Was that an earthquake,” she asked, to which Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour, who was sitting next to her said, “Yeah. You’re making the ground shake,” leading some to chuckle. “Madam President, Am I ok to continue?” Soeripto asked before continuing with her statement. #BREAKING: “You’re making the ground shake!” UN Security Council hears as mid-morning #earthquake interrupts briefing on the situation in the Middle East. pic.twitter.com/1F8TZBHKKu — UN News (@UN_News_Centre) April 5, 2024 × Statue of Liberty shakes, NYC skyline during the quake The epicentre, according to the USGS, was near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. However, the quake was felt across New Jersey, NYC, western Connecticut, and northern Pennsylvania, reported Reuters. The depth of the epicentre was 5 kilometres, as per the US government agency. Also Read | 4.0 magnitude aftershock recorded in New Jersey, little damage reported A video by EarthCam also showed the NYC skyline the moment that the earthquake – one of the strongest quakes on the east coast in the last century – also rattled NYC’s iconic landmark the Statue of Liberty. EarthCam captured the moment a 4.8-magnitude earthquake recorded in New Jersey shook residents in surrounding states and New York City on Friday morning. The earthquake was the strongest in NJ since 1884. pic.twitter.com/cKXmXqmxtW — EarthCam (@EarthCam) April 5, 2024 × In a series of posts on X, another historic structure that stands out on the NYC skyline, the Empire State Building confirmed that it was doing just fine after the earthquake. “I AM FINE,” said the post on Friday. I AM FINE — Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) April 5, 2024 × After a second earthquake of magnitude 4.0 was reported in New Jersey on Friday, the Empire State Building yet again took to X and said, “NOT AGAIN,” and in a subsequent post said, “I AM STILL FINE”. I AM STILL FINE — Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) April 5, 2024 × There have been at least 12 aftershocks that registered 1.8 or more on the Richter scale, according to the USGS. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: UNSC meeting interrupted, Statue of Liberty shakes after rare earthquake rattles New York

New York, which sits on the North American Plate and generally experiences fewer seismic events compared to regions along tectonic plate boundaries, was hit by a 4.7 magnitude earthquake on Friday (Apr 5) , as per the US Geological Survey (USGS).&nbsp;

During the jolts, the New York buildings rattled with the tremors while an alert was also sent to the residents advising them to remain indoors and call 911 in case of any injuries. The people were quite shocked by the earthquake as NYC is not in a quake-prone region.&nbsp;

According to USGS, the epicentre of the earthquake was near Whitehouse Station in New Jersey. The depth of the epicentre was 5 kilometres, as per the survey. Even as there have been reports of buildings shaking due to quake from Philadelphia north to Boston, there have been no official statements of any kind of injury.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-day-after-biden-netanyahu-call-israeli-military-sacks-two-over-killing-of-aid-workers-708073">Israeli military sacks 2 over killing of aid workers, a day after Biden-Netanyahu call</a>

The recording on the&nbsp;Richter scale, as per the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre, was of 5.5 magnitude. Reuters citing its reporters on the ground as well as other social media reports, said that the quake was felt across New York City, New Jersey, western Connecticut, and northern Pennsylvania.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-girl-left-in-coma-after-she-was-thrashed-by-three-teenagers-708070">French girl left in coma after being thrashed by three teenagers</a>

A Bronx resident aged 38, Charita Walcott, described the earthquake as a "violent rumble" lasting nearly 30 seconds.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-donald-trump-suffers-setbacks-as-judges-reject-calls-to-dismiss-charges-708147">US: Donald Trump suffers setbacks as judges reject calls to dismiss charges</a>

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"It was kind of like being in a drum circle, that vibration," she said, as reported by&nbsp;news agency&nbsp;Reuters.

<h2>White House responds</h2>

While House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre in a statement on social media platform X wrote, "The President has been briefed on the earthquake, which had an epicentre&nbsp;in New Jersey, and he is in touch with his team who are monitoring potential impacts. The White House is in touch with federal, state, and local officials as we learn more."&nbsp;

The quake struck the region at around 10:23 am and continued for several seconds. New York Governor Kathy Hochul wrote on X, “My team is assessing impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day."

The UN Security Council (UNSC) meeting on Friday was also interrupted for a short while owing to the quake.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

New York, which sits on the North American Plate and generally experiences fewer seismic events compared to regions along tectonic plate boundaries, was hit by a 4.

New York, which sits on the North American Plate and generally experiences fewer seismic events compared to regions along tectonic plate boundaries, was hit by a 4.7 magnitude earthquake on Friday (Apr 5) , as per the US Geological Survey (USGS). During the jolts, the New York buildings rattled with the tremors while an alert was also sent to the residents advising them to remain indoors and call 911 in case of any injuries. The people were quite shocked by the earthquake as NYC is not in a quake-prone region. According to USGS, the epicentre of the earthquake was near Whitehouse Station in New Jersey. The depth of the epicentre was 5 kilometres, as per the survey. Even as there have been reports of buildings shaking due to quake from Philadelphia north to Boston, there have been no official statements of any kind of injury. Also Read | Israeli military sacks 2 over killing of aid workers, a day after Biden-Netanyahu call The recording on the Richter scale, as per the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre, was of 5.5 magnitude. Reuters citing its reporters on the ground as well as other social media reports, said that the quake was felt across New York City, New Jersey, western Connecticut, and northern Pennsylvania. Also Read | French girl left in coma after being thrashed by three teenagers A Bronx resident aged 38, Charita Walcott, described the earthquake as a "violent rumble" lasting nearly 30 seconds. Watch | US: Donald Trump suffers setbacks as judges reject calls to dismiss charges × "It was kind of like being in a drum circle, that vibration," she said, as reported by news agency Reuters. White House responds While House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre in a statement on social media platform X wrote, "The President has been briefed on the earthquake, which had an epicentre in New Jersey, and he is in touch with his team who are monitoring potential impacts. The White House is in touch with federal, state, and local officials as we learn more." The quake struck the region at around 10:23 am and continued for several seconds. New York Governor Kathy Hochul wrote on X, “My team is assessing impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day." The UN Security Council (UNSC) meeting on Friday was also interrupted for a short while owing to the quake. (With inputs from agencies)

Rare earthquake of 4.7 magnitude rocks New York, New Jersey

A New Jersey earthquake shook and stirred New York City Friday, leaving residents rattled by the most powerful tremor to hit the five boroughs in more than a decade. Watch in for more details!

BREAKING: New York City rattled and rolled by 4.7 tremor

Former United States president Donald Trump’s bid to delay his trial on charges based on hush money transferred to adult film actress Stormy Daniels was rejected by a New York judge.&nbsp;

Trump's lawyers had requested to adjourn the hearing in the New York hush money case until the Supreme Court rules on presidential immunity.

The case is with Judge Juan Merchan in Manhattan and its hearing is scheduled to start on April 15.&nbsp;

Merchan said that the request of the former president was untimely and ruled that his lawyers had many opportunities to raise the issue of presidential immunity before but they chose to raise it in a&nbsp;March 7 court filing.

The judge on Wednesday (April 3) ruled that former president Donald Trump is not immune from prosecution in the hush money case since he did not invoke the defence in a timely manner.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-launches-fresh-tirade-against-illegal-migrants-calls-them-animals-and-not-humans-707246">Trump launches fresh tirade against illegal migrants, calls them ‘animals’ and ‘not humans’</a>

Judge Juan Merchan ruled that the former president was "well aware" he could try claiming presidential immunity after being indicted a year ago on charges of falsifying business records which were connected with hush money transferred to Daniels.&nbsp;

"Nonetheless, the defendant chose not to raise the defence of presidential immunity until well past the 45-day period provided by statute," Merchan said.

Merchan did not rule on the merits of the immunity claim made by Trump and decided to focus on the timing, which he claimed tested "this court's credulity."

"This Court finds that Defendant had myriad opportunities to raise the claim of presidential immunity well before March 7, 2024," wrote Merchan.

<h2>Judge relying on 'fundamentally flawed legal premise' in Trump's classified information case: Special counsel&nbsp;</h2>

In Donald Trump's criminal case, where he is charged with retaining classified information, special counsel Jack Smith in a court filing said that the judge was relying on a “fundamentally flawed legal premise” when asking lawyers to look into whether the former president can claim presidential immunity as per federal records law.

Smith added that if Judge Aileen Cannon gives the ruling that Trump can use the Presidential Records Act (PRA) in his defence, he will file another appeal in a higher court and will seek an order for the judge to correctly apply the law.

Watch:&nbsp;Former President Donald Trump calls immigrants in US 'animals'

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This has increased the chances of the trial being pushed back beyond the November general election in which Trump is certain to be the Republican nominee for president.

Meanwhile, Trump's defence team argued, "If this case is presented to a jury—which it should not be—the jury would be forced to resolve factual issues relating to not only PRA categorisations but also documents' alleged classification status."

"Not a single one had heard Trump say that he was designating records as personal or that, at the time he caused the transfer of boxes to Mar-a-Lago, he believed that his removal of records amounted to designating them as personal under the PRA," stated the special counsel. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Former United States president Donald Trump’s bid to delay his trial on charges based on hush money transferred to adult film actress Stormy Daniels was rejected by a New York judge.

Former United States president Donald Trump’s bid to delay his trial on charges based on hush money transferred to adult film actress Stormy Daniels was rejected by a New York judge. Trump's lawyers had requested to adjourn the hearing in the New York hush money case until the Supreme Court rules on presidential immunity. The case is with Judge Juan Merchan in Manhattan and its hearing is scheduled to start on April 15. Merchan said that the request of the former president was untimely and ruled that his lawyers had many opportunities to raise the issue of presidential immunity before but they chose to raise it in a March 7 court filing. The judge on Wednesday (April 3) ruled that former president Donald Trump is not immune from prosecution in the hush money case since he did not invoke the defence in a timely manner. Also Read: Trump launches fresh tirade against illegal migrants, calls them ‘animals’ and ‘not humans’ Judge Juan Merchan ruled that the former president was "well aware" he could try claiming presidential immunity after being indicted a year ago on charges of falsifying business records which were connected with hush money transferred to Daniels. "Nonetheless, the defendant chose not to raise the defence of presidential immunity until well past the 45-day period provided by statute," Merchan said. Merchan did not rule on the merits of the immunity claim made by Trump and decided to focus on the timing, which he claimed tested "this court's credulity." "This Court finds that Defendant had myriad opportunities to raise the claim of presidential immunity well before March 7, 2024," wrote Merchan. Judge relying on 'fundamentally flawed legal premise' in Trump's classified information case: Special counsel In Donald Trump's criminal case, where he is charged with retaining classified information, special counsel Jack Smith in a court filing said that the judge was relying on a “fundamentally flawed legal premise” when asking lawyers to look into whether the former president can claim presidential immunity as per federal records law. Smith added that if Judge Aileen Cannon gives the ruling that Trump can use the Presidential Records Act (PRA) in his defence, he will file another appeal in a higher court and will seek an order for the judge to correctly apply the law. Watch: Former President Donald Trump calls immigrants in US 'animals' This has increased the chances of the trial being pushed back beyond the November general election in which Trump is certain to be the Republican nominee for president. Meanwhile, Trump's defence team argued, "If this case is presented to a jury—which it should not be—the jury would be forced to resolve factual issues relating to not only PRA categorisations but also documents' alleged classification status." "Not a single one had heard Trump say that he was designating records as personal or that, at the time he caused the transfer of boxes to Mar-a-Lago, he believed that his removal of records amounted to designating them as personal under the PRA," stated the special counsel. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump hush money case: New York judge rejects bid to delay trial over presidential immunity claim

<o:p></o:p>

Citigroup, one of the major players in the US banking sector, is pushing back against a lawsuit brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who accuses its Citibank unit of neglecting to reimburse customers who have fallen prey to online scammers. <o:p></o:p>

According to a report by Reuters, Citigroup argued that the lawsuit is "misguided" and should be dismissed, citing specific legal standards and industry practices.<o:p></o:p>

Responding to the lawsuit, Citigroup said that it was faithful towards combating online wire fraud while questioning the legal grounds of the case. <o:p></o:p>

Reuters reported that Citigroup contended the lawsuit is based on a misinterpretation of federal laws governing electronic fund transfers, which explicitly excluded wire transfers from liability. <o:p></o:p>

The bank argued that it adheres to the Uniform Commercial Code, a standard adopted across all US states, which clears banks from reimbursing losses if they have implemented commercially reasonable security measures to verify customer identities. <o:p></o:p>

Citigroup said that it had taken such measures to prevent numerous fraudulent transactions daily.<o:p></o:p>

While they&nbsp; acknowledged the severity of online fraud, Citigroup said that lawsuits like this could disrupt established banking policies and practices. <o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, the bank contends that no system can prevent every scam, and legal action is not the appropriate solution. <o:p></o:p>

However, Attorney General Letitia James alleges that Citibank's security systems failed to detect the red flags indicating potential scams, leading to financial losses for customers. <o:p></o:p>

These failures include instances where customers lost huge sums, such as one case where a customer lost $40,000 of retirement savings after clicking a link in a fraudulent text message posing as Citibank.<o:p></o:p>

James seeks substantial remedies from Citibank, including compensation for defrauded customers, civil fines of $5,000 per violation, and the appointment of an independent monitor to review bank records and assist in identifying victims. <o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, the attorney general accuses Citibank of pressuring victims into signing affidavits that limit their ability to recover losses, only to reject their reimbursement claims later.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

Citigroup, one of the major players in the US banking sector, is pushing back against a lawsuit brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who accuses its Citibank unit of neglecting to reimburse customers who have fallen prey to online scammers.

Citigroup, one of the major players in the US banking sector, is pushing back against a lawsuit brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who accuses its Citibank unit of neglecting to reimburse customers who have fallen prey to online scammers. According to a report by Reuters, Citigroup argued that the lawsuit is "misguided" and should be dismissed, citing specific legal standards and industry practices. Responding to the lawsuit, Citigroup said that it was faithful towards combating online wire fraud while questioning the legal grounds of the case. Reuters reported that Citigroup contended the lawsuit is based on a misinterpretation of federal laws governing electronic fund transfers, which explicitly excluded wire transfers from liability. The bank argued that it adheres to the Uniform Commercial Code, a standard adopted across all US states, which clears banks from reimbursing losses if they have implemented commercially reasonable security measures to verify customer identities. Citigroup said that it had taken such measures to prevent numerous fraudulent transactions daily. While they acknowledged the severity of online fraud, Citigroup said that lawsuits like this could disrupt established banking policies and practices. According to Reuters, the bank contends that no system can prevent every scam, and legal action is not the appropriate solution. However, Attorney General Letitia James alleges that Citibank's security systems failed to detect the red flags indicating potential scams, leading to financial losses for customers. These failures include instances where customers lost huge sums, such as one case where a customer lost $40,000 of retirement savings after clicking a link in a fraudulent text message posing as Citibank. James seeks substantial remedies from Citibank, including compensation for defrauded customers, civil fines of $5,000 per violation, and the appointment of an independent monitor to review bank records and assist in identifying victims. According to Reuters, the attorney general accuses Citibank of pressuring victims into signing affidavits that limit their ability to recover losses, only to reject their reimbursement claims later. (With inputs from Reuters)

Citigroup challenges New York lawsuit over fraud scams: Report

Tesla shares continued with their downward trend on Tuesday. The company's shares fell 4.9% in New York, extending their 2024 slide to 33%. That's the second-worst showing in the s&p 500 index.

Tesla delivers just 386,810 vehicles in January-March quarter

Citigroup is undergoing a significant restructuring effort, with layoffs hitting hard in its New York divisions. A total of 430 employees are set to lose their jobs, primarily impacting Citibank, which will see 363 positions eliminated. This move is part of Citigroup's broader strategy to streamline its operations and enhance performance.

Citigroup slashes 430 jobs in New York restructuring

Inmates in New York have filed a lawsuit against the state corrections department over its decision to lock down the prisons during the total solar eclipse which will take place next Monday (April 8) and will be seen across Mexico, the United States and Canada.&nbsp;

<h2>About the lawsuit</h2>

The suit was filed last week in a federal court in upstate New York by six inmates incarcerated at the Woodbourne Correctional Facility, saying that the lockdown violates their constitutional rights to practice their faiths.&nbsp;

The six inmates included men from varying religious backgrounds and one atheist, who had prior permission to view the rare phenomenon. “A solar eclipse is a rare, natural phenomenon with great religious significance to many,” their complaint reads, as quoted by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-plans-to-launch-three-rockets-into-the-solar-eclipse-next-week-heres-why-706832">NASA plans to launch three rockets into the solar eclipse shadow next week. Here’s why</a>

The complaint also noted that before the announcement of the lockdown, one of the plaintiffs, an atheist, received special permission last month to view the eclipse using glasses that would be provided by the state.&nbsp;

Subsequently, four men sought permission but were denied since a solar eclipse is not listed as a holy day for their religions. The request by the sixth inmate, according to the lawsuit, never received a response.

<h2>What does the lockdown order say?</h2>

The department’s acting commissioner, Daniel Martuscello III, issued a memo earlier this month saying that all correctional facilities will operate on a holiday schedule on April 8.&nbsp;

In line with this, incarcerated individuals will remain in their housing units except for emergencies from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm (local time) around the time when inmates typically have their outdoor recreation, said the lawsuit.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/greenery-on-moon-soon-nasa-to-put-plants-on-lunar-surface-by-2026-706920">Greenery on Moon soon? NASA to put plants on lunar surface by 2026</a>

The memo also said that the department will distribute solar eclipse safety glasses for staff and those incarcerated at prisons in the path of totality so they can view the eclipse from their assigned work location or housing units.

<h2>About the upcoming total solar eclipse</h2>

During a total solar eclipse, the moon completely blocks the face of the sun for a brief period known as totality. Around 32 million Americans who are located along the 185-kilometre-wide path of totality will have the chance to view the celestial spectacle.

The upcoming celestial event is also a historic one since another total solar eclipse won’t be visible across the contiguous US again until August 2044.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Inmates in New York have filed a lawsuit against the state corrections department over its decision to lock down the prisons during the total solar eclipse which will take place next Monday (April 8) and will be seen across Mexico, the United States and Canada.

Inmates in New York have filed a lawsuit against the state corrections department over its decision to lock down the prisons during the total solar eclipse which will take place next Monday (April 8) and will be seen across Mexico, the United States and Canada. About the lawsuit The suit was filed last week in a federal court in upstate New York by six inmates incarcerated at the Woodbourne Correctional Facility, saying that the lockdown violates their constitutional rights to practice their faiths. The six inmates included men from varying religious backgrounds and one atheist, who had prior permission to view the rare phenomenon. “A solar eclipse is a rare, natural phenomenon with great religious significance to many,” their complaint reads, as quoted by the Associated Press. Also Read | NASA plans to launch three rockets into the solar eclipse shadow next week. Here’s why The complaint also noted that before the announcement of the lockdown, one of the plaintiffs, an atheist, received special permission last month to view the eclipse using glasses that would be provided by the state. Subsequently, four men sought permission but were denied since a solar eclipse is not listed as a holy day for their religions. The request by the sixth inmate, according to the lawsuit, never received a response. What does the lockdown order say? The department’s acting commissioner, Daniel Martuscello III, issued a memo earlier this month saying that all correctional facilities will operate on a holiday schedule on April 8. In line with this, incarcerated individuals will remain in their housing units except for emergencies from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm (local time) around the time when inmates typically have their outdoor recreation, said the lawsuit. Also Read | Greenery on Moon soon? NASA to put plants on lunar surface by 2026 The memo also said that the department will distribute solar eclipse safety glasses for staff and those incarcerated at prisons in the path of totality so they can view the eclipse from their assigned work location or housing units. About the upcoming total solar eclipse During a total solar eclipse, the moon completely blocks the face of the sun for a brief period known as totality. Around 32 million Americans who are located along the 185-kilometre-wide path of totality will have the chance to view the celestial spectacle. The upcoming celestial event is also a historic one since another total solar eclipse won’t be visible across the contiguous US again until August 2044. (With inputs from agencies)

April 8 total solar eclipse: New York inmates sue state over prison lockdown orders to watch rare phenomenon

Donald Trump posted $175 million bond in his New York civil fraud case on Monday. The former US president avoided asset seizures by state authorities that could have tripled his business Empire. Watch in for more details!

Trump Civil Fraud Case: No wrongdoing, the case is a political witch hunt: Donald Trump

New York is already an expensive place to travel, but things have just become worse,&nbsp;transit authorities authorised a controversial $15 toll for cars entering the busiest area of Manhattan, which is scheduled to go into force in mid-June.

In an attempt to promote public transportation use and ease traffic in town and lower Manhattan, the board of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority of New York voted 11-1 to charge the congestion toll. This will help decrease pollution.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-hopeful-trump-pushes-legal-challenges-in-hush-money-poll-subversion-cases-report-705954">US presidential hopeful Trump pushes legal challenges in hush money, poll subversion cases: Report</a>

The price, which is comparable to current programmes in Singapore, London, and Stockholm, will be the first of its kind in an American city. Federal approval is initially required, and then toll collection mechanisms must be established.

Along with any existing bridge or tunnel taxes, drivers entering Manhattan south of 60th Street from Queens, Brooklyn, and neighbouring New Jersey will be charged $15 during the day and $3.75 at night for passengers and small commercial vehicles.

During the day, trucks and sightseeing buses will pay between $24 and $36; at night, they will pay less. According to the MTA, ridesharing services like Uber will be allowed to charge $2.50 each trip, while taxis would charge $1.25 for each passenger into the zone.

Specialised city cars, emergency vehicles, and vehicles transporting individuals with disabilities will be the only ones excluded. Drivers in the congestion zone with low incomes will be eligible for discounted costs.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber called the vote "one of the most significant the board has ever undertaken," and said in a statement, "The MTA is ready."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-bridge-collapse-flammables-corrosives-found-on-ship-as-largest-crane-helps-clear-channel-705792">Baltimore bridge collapse: Flammables, corrosives found on ship as largest crane helps clear channel</a>

The MTA plans to use more than $1 billion it will get from the new toll to finance system expansions, modernise subway signals, and renovate stations to make them more accessible.

"One of the biggest goals of this is to finally attack congestion, but the other side of the equation is to invest more in transit," Lieber stated.

But critics, especially already stressed-out commuters, have howled over the new toll, and several lawsuits are already under way.

(With inputs from agencies)

New York is already an expensive place to travel, but things have just become worse, transit authorities authorised a controversial $15 toll for cars entering the busiest area of Manhattan, which is scheduled to go into force in mid-June.

New York is already an expensive place to travel, but things have just become worse, transit authorities authorised a controversial $15 toll for cars entering the busiest area of Manhattan, which is scheduled to go into force in mid-June. In an attempt to promote public transportation use and ease traffic in town and lower Manhattan, the board of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority of New York voted 11-1 to charge the congestion toll. This will help decrease pollution. Also read: US presidential hopeful Trump pushes legal challenges in hush money, poll subversion cases: Report The price, which is comparable to current programmes in Singapore, London, and Stockholm, will be the first of its kind in an American city. Federal approval is initially required, and then toll collection mechanisms must be established. Along with any existing bridge or tunnel taxes, drivers entering Manhattan south of 60th Street from Queens, Brooklyn, and neighbouring New Jersey will be charged $15 during the day and $3.75 at night for passengers and small commercial vehicles. During the day, trucks and sightseeing buses will pay between $24 and $36; at night, they will pay less. According to the MTA, ridesharing services like Uber will be allowed to charge $2.50 each trip, while taxis would charge $1.25 for each passenger into the zone. Specialised city cars, emergency vehicles, and vehicles transporting individuals with disabilities will be the only ones excluded. Drivers in the congestion zone with low incomes will be eligible for discounted costs. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber called the vote "one of the most significant the board has ever undertaken," and said in a statement, "The MTA is ready." Also read: Baltimore bridge collapse: Flammables, corrosives found on ship as largest crane helps clear channel The MTA plans to use more than $1 billion it will get from the new toll to finance system expansions, modernise subway signals, and renovate stations to make them more accessible. "One of the biggest goals of this is to finally attack congestion, but the other side of the equation is to invest more in transit," Lieber stated. But critics, especially already stressed-out commuters, have howled over the new toll, and several lawsuits are already under way. (With inputs from agencies)

New York set to be first US city to impose $15 congestion fee

It wasn’t short of a star-studded massive Democratic gala Thursday night (Mar 28), where US President Joe Biden and two of his predecessors attended an event that helped them rake in $25 million for the presidential campaign. Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and some 5,000 supporters gathered at Radio City Music Hall in New York, in a closely-held event to keep the protesters at bay. But guess what, the speeches by the three presidents were interrupted by protesters at least five times.

The event was also attended by actor and comedian Mindy Kaling, late-night host Stephen Colbert and special guests including celebrities like Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo and Lea Michele.

During a conversation, Kaling even joked that the moment was historic because “three presidents have come to New York, and not one of them to appear in court,” taking a jab at former president Donald Trump’s criminal indictments and civil trials.

<h2>Interruptions</h2>

Biden’s speech was interrupted by a pro-Palestinian protester, reacting to which the president assured of a peaceful and prosperous future for both Israelis and Palestinians. He also highlighted that Israel’s existence was at stake but added more needs to be done to allow aid into Gaza. The crowd cheered at the response, with some chanting “Four more years.”

Watch:&nbsp;US Elections 2024: President Biden rakes in $25 million in US fundraiser

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Obama’s speech was interrupted too, with the former president confronting the protester by saying, “You can’t just talk and not listen." He added, "That’s what the other side does.”

<h2>Protests held outside</h2>

The scene was less welcoming outside the Radio City Music Hall for the Democrats. More than 100 pro-Palestinian protesters stood the ground, chanting slogans like “Biden, Biden, you’re a liar,” and waving Palestinian flags and signs with anti-war messages.

The protests were held by a group called Abandon Biden, which encouraged the people to stage protests over his handling of the Israel-Hamas war.

“We cannot idly sit by as our president aides and abets genocide in Gaza,” the group’s New York co-chair Mosaab Sadia said in a statement. “The movement to Abandon Biden is only just beginning,” he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj44Y6BypiFAxUiZmwGHaAUDkkQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-polls-2024-joe-biden-donald-trump-win-louisianas-presidential-primary-703639" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-polls-2024-joe-biden-donald-trump-win-louisianas-presidential-primary-703639&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj44Y6BypiFAxUiZmwGHaAUDkkQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">US presidential polls 2024: Joe Biden, Donald Trump win Louisiana presidential primary</a>

This happened even as Biden’s campaign has taken several steps to steer clear of protesters, including making events smaller and withholding exact locations longer than usual.

(With inputs from agencies)

It wasn’t short of a star-studded massive Democratic gala Thursday night (Mar 28), where US President Joe Biden and two of his predecessors attended an event that helped them rake in $25 million for the presidential campaign.

It wasn’t short of a star-studded massive Democratic gala Thursday night (Mar 28), where US President Joe Biden and two of his predecessors attended an event that helped them rake in $25 million for the presidential campaign. Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and some 5,000 supporters gathered at Radio City Music Hall in New York, in a closely-held event to keep the protesters at bay. But guess what, the speeches by the three presidents were interrupted by protesters at least five times. The event was also attended by actor and comedian Mindy Kaling, late-night host Stephen Colbert and special guests including celebrities like Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo and Lea Michele. During a conversation, Kaling even joked that the moment was historic because “three presidents have come to New York, and not one of them to appear in court,” taking a jab at former president Donald Trump’s criminal indictments and civil trials. Interruptions Biden’s speech was interrupted by a pro-Palestinian protester, reacting to which the president assured of a peaceful and prosperous future for both Israelis and Palestinians. He also highlighted that Israel’s existence was at stake but added more needs to be done to allow aid into Gaza. The crowd cheered at the response, with some chanting “Four more years.” Watch: US Elections 2024: President Biden rakes in $25 million in US fundraiser × Obama’s speech was interrupted too, with the former president confronting the protester by saying, “You can’t just talk and not listen." He added, "That’s what the other side does.” Protests held outside The scene was less welcoming outside the Radio City Music Hall for the Democrats. More than 100 pro-Palestinian protesters stood the ground, chanting slogans like “Biden, Biden, you’re a liar,” and waving Palestinian flags and signs with anti-war messages. The protests were held by a group called Abandon Biden, which encouraged the people to stage protests over his handling of the Israel-Hamas war. “We cannot idly sit by as our president aides and abets genocide in Gaza,” the group’s New York co-chair Mosaab Sadia said in a statement. “The movement to Abandon Biden is only just beginning,” he added. Also read: US presidential polls 2024: Joe Biden, Donald Trump win Louisiana presidential primary This happened even as Biden’s campaign has taken several steps to steer clear of protesters, including making events smaller and withholding exact locations longer than usual. (With inputs from agencies)

Former presidents Obama, Clinton join Biden in New York to attract eyeballs and funds

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