A map displayed by the U.S. government during the AIDS 2026 Conference in Rio de Janeiro has sparked controversy after reports claimed that every African country was incorrectly labelled or misplaced.

The map reportedly showed Nigeria as a landlocked country, placed Mozambique in the Horn of Africa, and positioned Ivory Coast on the wrong side of the continent. The slide also reportedly carried an OpenAI watermark, raising questions about whether AI-generated content was used without proper verification.

U.S. Sparks Controversy After Mislabeling Every African Country on Conference Map

US President Donald Trump has once again accused China of interfering in the 2020 US Presidential Election, claiming Beijing obtained American voter data and attempted to influence the election. Speaking at the White House, Trump said the alleged interference happened "a long time ago" but confirmed that the United States would raise the issue with China. The remarks come just ahead of the expected Xi Jinping visit to Washington, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met China's top diplomat in Manila to prepare the groundwork for high-level talks. However, Rubio reportedly did not raise Trump's election interference allegations during the meeting, instead focusing on Iran, trade, fentanyl trafficking, and broader US-China relations.

Trump accuses China of 2020 Election Interference again | Xi Visit, Rubio talks & US-China tensions

OpenAI has reportedly explored giving the US government a 5% ownership stake in the company as it prepares for a future public listing and faces growing political scrutiny over artificial intelligence. According to the Financial Times, the proposal has been discussed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman with senior officials in the Trump administration, including President Donald Trump, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The discussions are still in the early stages, and no agreement has been reached. The proposal has attracted attention because it would represent a new way of linking AI development with public ownership.<h2>Why is OpenAI discussing government ownership?</h2>According to the report, OpenAI believes the public should directly benefit from the value created by artificial intelligence. The company has reportedly suggested that leading US AI developers could each contribute 5 per cent of their equity to a special investment vehicle. The idea is inspired by Alaska's Permanent Fund, which invests state oil revenues and distributes annual dividends to residents.Altman has previously argued that AI could create enormous economic value and that ordinary people should share in those gains rather than leaving them entirely with private investors.<h2>Why now?</h2>The discussions come as AI companies face increasing pressure from policymakers. Governments around the world are raising questions about the rapid expansion of AI, including concerns over massive data centre construction, electricity demand, job displacement, cybersecurity risks and the safety of increasingly powerful AI models.OpenAI is also preparing for a public listing while investing billions of dollars in AI infrastructure. Those rising costs have led some investors to question how quickly leading AI companies can become consistently profitable. The proposal is still only under discussion and would likely require approval from the US Congress before becoming reality. Separately, Trump said in June that he planned to meet major AI companies to discuss whether the government should hold ownership stakes in leading AI firms to help address public concerns about the technology. Altman has also proposed creating a US-led international AI forum involving governments and independent experts to establish safety standards, coordinate oversight and reduce pressure for companies to race ahead without sufficient safeguards. If such a model were ever adopted, it could represent one of the biggest changes yet in how advanced AI companies are governed. For now, however, the discussions remain exploratory, and OpenAI has not announced any formal decision.

OpenAI has reportedly discussed giving the US government a 5% ownership stake as part of a broader proposal aimed at sharing AI's economic benefits and easing concerns over the rapid growth of artificial intelligence.

OpenAI has reportedly explored giving the US government a 5% ownership stake in the company as it prepares for a future public listing and faces growing political scrutiny over artificial intelligence. According to the Financial Times, the proposal has been discussed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman with senior officials in the Trump administration, including President Donald Trump, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The discussions are still in the early stages, and no agreement has been reached. The proposal has attracted attention because it would represent a new way of linking AI development with public ownership. Why is OpenAI discussing government ownership? According to the report, OpenAI believes the public should directly benefit from the value created by artificial intelligence. The company has reportedly suggested that leading US AI developers could each contribute 5 per cent of their equity to a special investment vehicle. The idea is inspired by Alaska's Permanent Fund, which invests state oil revenues and distributes annual dividends to residents.Altman has previously argued that AI could create enormous economic value and that ordinary people should share in those gains rather than leaving them entirely with private investors. Why now? The discussions come as AI companies face increasing pressure from policymakers. Governments around the world are raising questions about the rapid expansion of AI, including concerns over massive data centre construction, electricity demand, job displacement, cybersecurity risks and the safety of increasingly powerful AI models.OpenAI is also preparing for a public listing while investing billions of dollars in AI infrastructure. Those rising costs have led some investors to question how quickly leading AI companies can become consistently profitable. The proposal is still only under discussion and would likely require approval from the US Congress before becoming reality. Separately, Trump said in June that he planned to meet major AI companies to discuss whether the government should hold ownership stakes in leading AI firms to help address public concerns about the technology. Altman has also proposed creating a US-led international AI forum involving governments and independent experts to establish safety standards, coordinate oversight and reduce pressure for companies to race ahead without sufficient safeguards. If such a model were ever adopted, it could represent one of the biggest changes yet in how advanced AI companies are governed. For now, however, the discussions remain exploratory, and OpenAI has not announced any formal decision.

OpenAI has reportedly discussed giving the US government a 5% ownership stake as part of a broader proposal aimed at sharing AI's economic benefits and easing concerns over the rapid growth of artificial intelligence.

OpenAI discussed giving US government a 5% stake: What it could mean for the future of AI

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is expected to oppose proposals requiring AI developers to secure US government approval before making new AI models publicly available, according to a company statement released on Wednesday. The move is part of OpenAI's wider push to shape the regulation of future technology. During his visit to Washington this week, Altman will also urge Congress to increase funding for artificial intelligence testing at the US Department of Commerce. The department currently collaborates with firms such as OpenAI and Anthropic to evaluate the capabilities and risks of their AI systems. OpenAI said it wants the federal government to expand these testing efforts and bring in additional experts in areas including cybersecurity, biological threats and national security to strengthen oversight and safety assessments.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-anthony-scott-searles-harris-all-we-know-about-bakersfield-bank-hostage-suspect-1780544751122">Who was Anthony Scott Searles-Harris? All we know about Bakersfield bank hostage suspect</a><h3>OpenAI and Anthropic's US IPO</h3>Altman's visit to Washington collides with a crucial period for the company and the industry as OpenAI is preparing to quietly register for an initial public offering. In the other development, OpenAI's competitor Anthropic, which makes Claude, confidentially registered for a US IPO on Monday. The requirements of the federal government might hurt the profits of industry if they slow down the introduction of new models or prompt the companies to change how their products work to solve security concerns. Altman is expected to hold talks with several lawmakers on Wednesday, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican representing Louisiana, according to the Speaker’s office. The White House under President Donald Trump did not immediately respond to requests seeking comment on whether any meetings had been scheduled.

The requirements of the federal government might hurt the profits of industry if they slow down the introduction of new models or prompt the companies to change how their products work to solve security concerns.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is expected to oppose proposals requiring AI developers to secure US government approval before making new AI models publicly available, according to a company statement released on Wednesday. The move is part of OpenAI's wider push to shape the regulation of future technology. During his visit to Washington this week, Altman will also urge Congress to increase funding for artificial intelligence testing at the US Department of Commerce. The department currently collaborates with firms such as OpenAI and Anthropic to evaluate the capabilities and risks of their AI systems. OpenAI said it wants the federal government to expand these testing efforts and bring in additional experts in areas including cybersecurity, biological threats and national security to strengthen oversight and safety assessments. Also read: Who was Anthony Scott Searles-Harris? All we know about Bakersfield bank hostage suspect OpenAI and Anthropic's US IPO Altman's visit to Washington collides with a crucial period for the company and the industry as OpenAI is preparing to quietly register for an initial public offering. In the other development, OpenAI's competitor Anthropic, which makes Claude, confidentially registered for a US IPO on Monday. The requirements of the federal government might hurt the profits of industry if they slow down the introduction of new models or prompt the companies to change how their products work to solve security concerns. Altman is expected to hold talks with several lawmakers on Wednesday, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican representing Louisiana, according to the Speaker’s office. The White House under President Donald Trump did not immediately respond to requests seeking comment on whether any meetings had been scheduled.

The requirements of the federal government might hurt the profits of industry if they slow down the introduction of new models or prompt the companies to change how their products work to solve security concerns.

OpenAI CEO seeks expanded AI testing, rejects pre-release government approval rules

Anthropic has filed a lawsuit against the United States Government after being barred from certain military-related engagements, intensifying tensions over the role of artificial intelligence in defense operations. The dispute highlights growing friction between tech companies and government agencies over AI safety, national security restrictions, and the use of advanced models in military systems.


Anthropic Sues US Government Over Military Ban; Dispute Escalates

President Donald Trump has instructed the US Department of Justice (DOJ) to impose penalties on lawyers and law firms involved in what he described as &ldquo;frivolous, unreasonable and vexatious&rdquo; legal action against the US government.
In a memo released by the White House on Friday, Trump said, &ldquo;Lawyers and law firms that engage in actions that violate the laws of the United States or rules governing attorney conduct must be efficiently and effectively held accountable. Accountability is especially important when misconduct by lawyers and law firms threatens our national security, homeland security, public safety, or election integrity.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-order-to-eliminate-us-education-department-8874844">Donald Trump signs order to 'eliminate' US Education Department</a>
<h2>Immigration lawyers in the spotlight</h2>
The directive, titled Preventing Abuses of the Legal System and the Federal Court, particularly targeted immigration lawyers. Trump claimed they &ldquo;frequently coach clients to conceal their past or lie about their circumstances when asserting their asylum claims, all in an attempt to circumvent immigration policies enacted to protect our national security and deceive the immigration authorities and courts into granting them undeserved relief.&rdquo;
He ordered acting Attorney General Bondi to investigate the behaviour of lawyers and firms that have filed lawsuits against the federal government over the last eight years. Trump also called on both Bondi and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to prioritise enforcement of rules around attorney conduct and discipline.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-hails-good-relations-with-india-points-out-the-only-problem-8874597">Donald Trump hails 'good relations' with India, points out 'the only problem'</a>
<h2>Targeting prominent law firms</h2>
In recent weeks, Trump has taken executive actions against major legal firms he associates with his political opponents, including efforts to revoke their government contracts and security clearances.
One of the firms singled out was Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton &amp; Garrison LLP. Trump had initially demanded a review of their contracts and clearances but withdrew the order after the firm agreed to provide pro bono legal work for the administration.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-strips-joe-biden-kamala-harris-hillary-clinton-and-other-former-officials-of-security-clearances-8878938">Trump breaks precedent, strips Biden, Harris, and others of security clearances</a>
Another firm, Perkins Coie, previously linked to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, launched legal action after Trump issued an order banning its lawyers from entering federal buildings. US District Judge Beryl Howell, appointed by former President Barack Obama, temporarily blocked part of that order.
Covington &amp; Burling, which offers legal services to former special counsel Jack Smith in a personal capacity, was also targeted by the president.
<h2>Trump defends his actions</h2>
Defending his actions on Friday, Trump told reporters, &ldquo;Well, the law firms all want to make deals. You mean the law firms that we&rsquo;re going after, that went after me for four years ruthlessly, violently, illegally? Are those the law firms you&rsquo;re talking about?&rdquo;
&ldquo;They&rsquo;re not babies. They&rsquo;re very sophisticated people,&rdquo; he added. &ldquo;Those law firms did bad things. Bad things. They went after me for years.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alien-enemies-act-the-18th-century-wartime-law-trump-used-for-deportation-but-failed-explained-8858793">Alien Enemies Act: The 18th-century wartime law Trump used for deportation but failed, explained</a>
<h2>Frustration over court orders</h2>
According to sources close to the matter, Trump has been frustrated in recent days by a series of temporary court orders that have slowed his political agenda. One such case challenged the legality of Elon Musk&rsquo;s cost-cutting efforts, branding them as potentially unconstitutional.
However, the case causing the most frustration for the White House involves Trump&rsquo;s use of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport suspected Venezuelan gang members without court proceedings.
In that case, US District Judge James Boasberg ordered that any ongoing deportation flights be recalled and temporarily halted further removals under the Act.
The administration failed to return two flights, arguing the judge&rsquo;s instructions were not issued in writing. This prompted Boasberg to question whether the government had ignored a court order.
&ldquo;You felt that you could disregard it because it wasn&rsquo;t in the written order. That&rsquo;s your first argument?&rdquo; Boasberg asked during a recent hearing. &ldquo;The idea that because my written order was pithier so it could be disregarded, that&rsquo;s one heck of a stretch,&rdquo; Boasberg added.
The White House insists it did not break the law. At the core of the dispute is the administration&rsquo;s view that the judge had no authority to hear the case, a position that overlooks the established role of federal courts in reviewing how laws are applied.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump has taken executive actions against major legal firms he associates with his political opponents, including efforts to revoke their government contracts and security clearances.

President Donald Trump has instructed the US Department of Justice (DOJ) to impose penalties on lawyers and law firms involved in what he described as “frivolous, unreasonable and vexatious” legal action against the US government. In a memo released by the White House on Friday, Trump said, “Lawyers and law firms that engage in actions that violate the laws of the United States or rules governing attorney conduct must be efficiently and effectively held accountable. Accountability is especially important when misconduct by lawyers and law firms threatens our national security, homeland security, public safety, or election integrity.” Also read: Donald Trump signs order to 'eliminate' US Education Department Immigration lawyers in the spotlight The directive, titled Preventing Abuses of the Legal System and the Federal Court, particularly targeted immigration lawyers. Trump claimed they “frequently coach clients to conceal their past or lie about their circumstances when asserting their asylum claims, all in an attempt to circumvent immigration policies enacted to protect our national security and deceive the immigration authorities and courts into granting them undeserved relief.” He ordered acting Attorney General Bondi to investigate the behaviour of lawyers and firms that have filed lawsuits against the federal government over the last eight years. Trump also called on both Bondi and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to prioritise enforcement of rules around attorney conduct and discipline. Also read: Donald Trump hails 'good relations' with India, points out 'the only problem' Targeting prominent law firms In recent weeks, Trump has taken executive actions against major legal firms he associates with his political opponents, including efforts to revoke their government contracts and security clearances. One of the firms singled out was Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP. Trump had initially demanded a review of their contracts and clearances but withdrew the order after the firm agreed to provide pro bono legal work for the administration. Also read: Trump breaks precedent, strips Biden, Harris, and others of security clearances Another firm, Perkins Coie, previously linked to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, launched legal action after Trump issued an order banning its lawyers from entering federal buildings. US District Judge Beryl Howell, appointed by former President Barack Obama, temporarily blocked part of that order. Covington & Burling, which offers legal services to former special counsel Jack Smith in a personal capacity, was also targeted by the president. Trump defends his actions Defending his actions on Friday, Trump told reporters, “Well, the law firms all want to make deals. You mean the law firms that we’re going after, that went after me for four years ruthlessly, violently, illegally? Are those the law firms you’re talking about?” “They’re not babies. They’re very sophisticated people,” he added. “Those law firms did bad things. Bad things. They went after me for years.” Also read: Alien Enemies Act: The 18th-century wartime law Trump used for deportation but failed, explained Frustration over court orders According to sources close to the matter, Trump has been frustrated in recent days by a series of temporary court orders that have slowed his political agenda. One such case challenged the legality of Elon Musk’s cost-cutting efforts, branding them as potentially unconstitutional. However, the case causing the most frustration for the White House involves Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport suspected Venezuelan gang members without court proceedings. In that case, US District Judge James Boasberg ordered that any ongoing deportation flights be recalled and temporarily halted further removals under the Act. The administration failed to return two flights, arguing the judge’s instructions were not issued in writing. This prompted Boasberg to question whether the government had ignored a court order. “You felt that you could disregard it because it wasn’t in the written order. That’s your first argument?” Boasberg asked during a recent hearing. “The idea that because my written order was pithier so it could be disregarded, that’s one heck of a stretch,” Boasberg added. The White House insists it did not break the law. At the core of the dispute is the administration’s view that the judge had no authority to hear the case, a position that overlooks the established role of federal courts in reviewing how laws are applied. (With inputs from agencies)

'Unreasonable and vexatious': Trump targets immigration lawyers with new DOJ crackdown on ‘frivolous’ lawsuits

The Microsoft-backed Artificial Intelligence (AI) OpenAI on Tuesday (Jan 28) introduced ChatGPT Gov, a new version of ChatGPT, specifically designed for US government agencies.&nbsp;
Amid rising AI competition, this new tailored version of ChatGPT will boost efficiency and productivity and is crucial for maintaining and enhancing America&rsquo;s global leadership in this technology.&nbsp;
The OpenAI said that the US government agencies can deploy ChatGPT Gov in their own Microsoft Azure commercial cloud and will have access to many of the features of ChatGPT Enterprise.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-ai-sensation-deepseek-dethrones-chatgpt-but-limits-users-amid-malicious-cyberattacks-8659469" rel="dofollow">Chinese AI sensation DeepSeek dethrones ChatGPT but limits users amid 'malicious' cyberattacks</a>
It will include many of the same features offered by ChatGPT Enterprise, including saving and sharing conversations, uploading text images and files, and interpreting and summarizing text, code, images, and mathematics.
Kevin Weil, the Chief Product Officer of OpenAI, shared a post on X, announcing the new version for the US government.&nbsp;
The launch comes hours after CEO Sam Altman shared a post on X, saying that the company will "pull up some releases", making his first public statement after the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek shocked AI-linked stocks on Monday.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/bruh-its-down-again-chatgpt-suffers-global-outage-millions-of-users-unable-to-access-platform-8647550" rel="dofollow">'Bruh, it's down again?': ChatGPT suffers global outage, millions of users unable to access platform</a>
<h2>'For national interest and public good'</h2>
"By making our products available to the U.S. government, we aim to ensure AI serves the national interest and the public good, aligned with democratic values while empowering policymakers to responsibly integrate these capabilities to deliver better services to the American people," the OpenAI website said in a statement.&nbsp;
Moreover, this will expedite internal authorisation of OpenAI&rsquo;s tools for the handling of non-public sensitive data.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deepseek-donald-trump-wake-up-call-us-tech-industry-8661569" rel="dofollow">'If you could do it cheaper...': Trump calls DeepSeek a 'wake-up call' for US tech industry</a>
Recently, DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model, disrupted the tech industry by surpassing ChatGPT in downloads on Apple's App Store, further putting pressure on tech giants and their substantial investments in scaling AI operations.
The OpenAI witnessed more than 90,000 government users accessing ChatGPT across federal, state, and local agencies since last year. However, they were facing some issues due to government compliance standards.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/china-deepseek-deepseek-or-deep-secrecy-netizens-slam-chinas-new-ai-chatbot-for-deflecting-questions-on-dark-chinese-history-lets-talk-about-something-else-8660727" rel="dofollow">DeepSeek or Deep Secrecy? Netizens slam China's new AI chatbot for deflecting questions on dark Chinese history</a>
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve heard from customers that what they want to do, they want to do more with our products but are limited by government compliance requirements,&rdquo; Felipe Millon, the leader of OpenAI&rsquo;s Government Go to Market program, said Monday.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: OpenAI said that the US government agencies can deploy ChatGPT Gov in their own Microsoft Azure commercial cloud and will have access to many of the features of ChatGPT. 

The Microsoft-backed Artificial Intelligence (AI) OpenAI on Tuesday (Jan 28) introduced ChatGPT Gov, a new version of ChatGPT, specifically designed for US government agencies. Amid rising AI competition, this new tailored version of ChatGPT will boost efficiency and productivity and is crucial for maintaining and enhancing America’s global leadership in this technology. The OpenAI said that the US government agencies can deploy ChatGPT Gov in their own Microsoft Azure commercial cloud and will have access to many of the features of ChatGPT Enterprise. Also read: Chinese AI sensation DeepSeek dethrones ChatGPT but limits users amid 'malicious' cyberattacks It will include many of the same features offered by ChatGPT Enterprise, including saving and sharing conversations, uploading text images and files, and interpreting and summarizing text, code, images, and mathematics. Kevin Weil, the Chief Product Officer of OpenAI, shared a post on X, announcing the new version for the US government. The launch comes hours after CEO Sam Altman shared a post on X, saying that the company will "pull up some releases", making his first public statement after the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek shocked AI-linked stocks on Monday. Also read: 'Bruh, it's down again?': ChatGPT suffers global outage, millions of users unable to access platform 'For national interest and public good' "By making our products available to the U.S. government, we aim to ensure AI serves the national interest and the public good, aligned with democratic values while empowering policymakers to responsibly integrate these capabilities to deliver better services to the American people," the OpenAI website said in a statement. Moreover, this will expedite internal authorisation of OpenAI’s tools for the handling of non-public sensitive data. Also read: 'If you could do it cheaper...': Trump calls DeepSeek a 'wake-up call' for US tech industry Recently, DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model, disrupted the tech industry by surpassing ChatGPT in downloads on Apple's App Store, further putting pressure on tech giants and their substantial investments in scaling AI operations. The OpenAI witnessed more than 90,000 government users accessing ChatGPT across federal, state, and local agencies since last year. However, they were facing some issues due to government compliance standards. Also read: DeepSeek or Deep Secrecy? Netizens slam China's new AI chatbot for deflecting questions on dark Chinese history “We’ve heard from customers that what they want to do, they want to do more with our products but are limited by government compliance requirements,” Felipe Millon, the leader of OpenAI’s Government Go to Market program, said Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

Introducing ChatGPT Gov: OpenAI launches tailored version for US government amid rise in AI competition

Is a private equity billionaire going to be the treasury secretary of the US, one of the most important cabinet positions yet to be filled by incoming president Donald Trump?

Marc Rowan, the CEO of Appolo Global Management Inc, is a top contender for the post that has massive implications for US financial and economic policy affecting the nation and rest of the world, according to various media reports.

Watch: What Trump 2.0 Means For India | GRAVITAS

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Rowan, 62, has gone to Florida from his base in Hong Kong, and is set to meet Trump on Wednesday (Nov 20) to make his case for the job, the Financial Times reported.

According to the British newspaper, Rowan has the support of several Trump donors.

Other top names for the job include hedge fund investor Scott Bessent, former Federal Reserve governor Kevin Warsh and Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty.

Trump will interview both Rowan and Warsh on Wednesday, Bloomberg news agency reported citing sources.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/office-for-profit-how-trumps-return-will-add-to-his-wealth-and-raise-ethical-questions-777315">Also read: Office for profit: How Trump's return will add to his wealth and raise ethical questions&nbsp;</a> 
 
Trump tapped another billionaire, Howard Lutnick from the investment firm Cantor Fitzgerald, as commerce secretary on Tuesday.

Rowan, a Wharton School of Business graduate, was part of the team that adviced Trump during the early stages of Covid pandemic that hit the US at the fag end of his first term.

Rowan's&nbsp;investment firm Apollo Global Management has assets under management worth over $700 billion.

According to a report in Times of Israel, Rowan was an ardent critic of antisemitism in US educational institutions in the wake of Gaza war after Israel was attacked by Hamas terroists last October.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-20-cabinet-brendan-carr-to-be-chairperson-of-federal-communications-commission-776955">Also read: Trump 2.0 cabinet: Brendan Carr to be chairperson of Federal Communications Commission</a>

Financial industry veterans becoming treasury secretary is nothing new in the 'revolving door' of industry-government jobs of the US.&nbsp;

If Rowan is named by Trump and approved by Senate, he will have influence over the $24 trillion private equity market, said a report on Fortune magazine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Is a private equity billionaire going to be the treasury secretary of the US, one of the most important cabinet positions yet to be filled by incoming president Donald Trump?

Is a private equity billionaire going to be the treasury secretary of the US, one of the most important cabinet positions yet to be filled by incoming president Donald Trump? Marc Rowan, the CEO of Appolo Global Management Inc, is a top contender for the post that has massive implications for US financial and economic policy affecting the nation and rest of the world, according to various media reports. Watch: What Trump 2.0 Means For India | GRAVITAS × Rowan, 62, has gone to Florida from his base in Hong Kong, and is set to meet Trump on Wednesday (Nov 20) to make his case for the job, the Financial Times reported. According to the British newspaper, Rowan has the support of several Trump donors. Other top names for the job include hedge fund investor Scott Bessent, former Federal Reserve governor Kevin Warsh and Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty. Trump will interview both Rowan and Warsh on Wednesday, Bloomberg news agency reported citing sources. Also read: Office for profit: How Trump's return will add to his wealth and raise ethical questions Trump tapped another billionaire, Howard Lutnick from the investment firm Cantor Fitzgerald, as commerce secretary on Tuesday. Rowan, a Wharton School of Business graduate, was part of the team that adviced Trump during the early stages of Covid pandemic that hit the US at the fag end of his first term. Rowan's investment firm Apollo Global Management has assets under management worth over $700 billion. According to a report in Times of Israel, Rowan was an ardent critic of antisemitism in US educational institutions in the wake of Gaza war after Israel was attacked by Hamas terroists last October. Also read: Trump 2.0 cabinet: Brendan Carr to be chairperson of Federal Communications Commission Financial industry veterans becoming treasury secretary is nothing new in the 'revolving door' of industry-government jobs of the US. If Rowan is named by Trump and approved by Senate, he will have influence over the $24 trillion private equity market, said a report on Fortune magazine. (With inputs from agencies)

Another billionaire in Team Trump 2.0? Marc Rowan a top contender for treasury secretary

The US government is considering asking a federal judge to break up the search engine giant Google in a move to reshape how technology giants do business. The US&nbsp;Department of Justice (DoJ) said&nbsp;the move may include structural requirements to prevent Google from maintaining its search monopoly. In response, Google warned that the proposed changes could have unintended consequences for US consumers and businesses.&nbsp;

The US&nbsp;District Judge Amit Mehta gave a landmark ruling in August that said Google had maintained dominance in the online search category to squash competition through illegal practices. The court’s decision in August had a significant impact on Alphabet, the parent company of Google.

The ruling came after a 10-week trial in which Google was accused of paying billions of dollars yearly to firms, including Samsung and Apple, to ensure that Google was their default search engine.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-us-arab-allies-in-covert-talks-with-iran-for-ceasefire-on-all-fronts-765765">US, Arab allies in covert talks with Iran for ceasefire on 'all fronts'</a>

In a late court filing on Tuesday (Oct 7), the DoJ said that it is considering "remedies that would prevent Google from using products such as Chrome, Play, and Android to advantage Google search and Google search-related products." Google's lawyers argue that users are attracted to the search engine because of its usefulness, and Google is investing to make it better for its consumers.

Google’s vice president of regulatory affairs, Lee-Anne Mulholland, said in a blog post responding to the court filing that the DoJ was “already signalling requests that go far beyond the specific legal issues” in this case. “Government overreach in a fast-moving industry may have negative unintended consequences for American innovation and America’s consumers.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-bows-to-brazils-supreme-court-x-set-to-return-after-months-long-showdown-over-hate-speech-765798">Musk bows to Brazil’s Supreme Court! X set to return after months-long showdown over hate speech</a>

However, the DoJ is yet to submit the detailed set of proposals and changes by 20 December. Later, Google can submit its own set of remedies by 20 December. Other ongoing lawsuits against big US technology firms include Meta, Amazon, and Apple, accused of anti-competitive practices. The lawsuits are an attempt by the U.S. authorities to strengthen competition in the industry.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The US government is considering asking a federal judge to break up the search engine giant Google in a move to reshape how technology giants do business. The US Department of Justice (DoJ) said the move may include structural requirements to prevent Google from maintaining its search monopoly.

The US government is considering asking a federal judge to break up the search engine giant Google in a move to reshape how technology giants do business. The US Department of Justice (DoJ) said the move may include structural requirements to prevent Google from maintaining its search monopoly. In response, Google warned that the proposed changes could have unintended consequences for US consumers and businesses. The US District Judge Amit Mehta gave a landmark ruling in August that said Google had maintained dominance in the online search category to squash competition through illegal practices. The court’s decision in August had a significant impact on Alphabet, the parent company of Google. The ruling came after a 10-week trial in which Google was accused of paying billions of dollars yearly to firms, including Samsung and Apple, to ensure that Google was their default search engine. Also Read | US, Arab allies in covert talks with Iran for ceasefire on 'all fronts' In a late court filing on Tuesday (Oct 7), the DoJ said that it is considering "remedies that would prevent Google from using products such as Chrome, Play, and Android to advantage Google search and Google search-related products." Google's lawyers argue that users are attracted to the search engine because of its usefulness, and Google is investing to make it better for its consumers. Google’s vice president of regulatory affairs, Lee-Anne Mulholland, said in a blog post responding to the court filing that the DoJ was “already signalling requests that go far beyond the specific legal issues” in this case. “Government overreach in a fast-moving industry may have negative unintended consequences for American innovation and America’s consumers.” Also Read | Musk bows to Brazil’s Supreme Court! X set to return after months-long showdown over hate speech However, the DoJ is yet to submit the detailed set of proposals and changes by 20 December. Later, Google can submit its own set of remedies by 20 December. Other ongoing lawsuits against big US technology firms include Meta, Amazon, and Apple, accused of anti-competitive practices. The lawsuits are an attempt by the U.S. authorities to strengthen competition in the industry. (With inputs from agencies)

Search engine giant Google threatened with break up by US government

Intel Corporation has been awarded up to $3 billion in funding under the CHIPS and Science Act, a landmark legislation aimed at boosting semiconductor manufacturing in the United States. The announcement comes as part of the Biden administration's efforts to strengthen the country's technological competitiveness and reduce reliance on foreign chip supplies as detailed in a CNBC report.

Basics of the CHIPS and Science Act, its introduction and role<o:p></o:p>

The CHIPS Act, signed into law in August 2022, provides $52.7 billion in subsidies for semiconductor research, development, and manufacturing. In the act, CHIPS simply stands for Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors. This act was introduced by the US to primarily counter China and maintain its dominance in advanced manufacturing, microelectronics systems, and process technology.&nbsp; 

Intel's award, which is subject to the company meeting certain milestones, will support the expansion of its chip factory in Chandler, Arizona. The facility, known as Fab 42, is expected to produce the most advanced chips using the company's 18A process technology.

"This funding will help accelerate Intel's investment in Chandler and support the company's goal of becoming a major provider of foundry capacity in the U.S.," said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in a statement.

Intel's commitment to US manufacturing<o:p></o:p>

Intel's CEO, Pat Gelsinger, has been a vocal advocate for strengthening the US semiconductor industry. The company has pledged to invest $20 billion in the construction of two new factories in Arizona and another $20 billion for a new facility in Ohio.

"Intel is proud to be a part of the CHIPS Act and to continue investing in US manufacturing," said Gelsinger. "This funding will help us accelerate our plans to build the most advanced semiconductor manufacturing capacity in the world right here in America."

&nbsp;Strengthening the US semiconductor industry<o:p></o:p>

The CHIPS Act is a critical component of the Biden administration's strategy to address the global chip shortage and ensure the long-term competitiveness of the US semiconductor industry. The legislation aims to reduce the country's reliance on foreign chip suppliers, particularly Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), which currently dominates the global foundry market.

By investing in domestic chip manufacturing, the US government hopes to create jobs, attract more private investment, and secure a reliable supply of semiconductors for key industries such as automotive, healthcare, and defense.

Hence, Intel's award under the CHIPS Act is a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to strengthen the US semiconductor industry. This funding will support the company's expansion plans and contribute to the creation of high-tech jobs in Arizona. As the global demand for advanced chips continues to grow, the CHIPS Act will play a crucial role in ensuring that the US remains at the forefront of semiconductor technology.

Intel Corporation has been awarded up to $3 billion in funding under the CHIPS and Science Act, a landmark legislation aimed at boosting semiconductor manufacturing in the United States.

Intel Corporation has been awarded up to $3 billion in funding under the CHIPS and Science Act, a landmark legislation aimed at boosting semiconductor manufacturing in the United States. The announcement comes as part of the Biden administration's efforts to strengthen the country's technological competitiveness and reduce reliance on foreign chip supplies as detailed in a CNBC report. Basics of the CHIPS and Science Act, its introduction and role The CHIPS Act, signed into law in August 2022, provides $52.7 billion in subsidies for semiconductor research, development, and manufacturing. In the act, CHIPS simply stands for Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors. This act was introduced by the US to primarily counter China and maintain its dominance in advanced manufacturing, microelectronics systems, and process technology. Intel's award, which is subject to the company meeting certain milestones, will support the expansion of its chip factory in Chandler, Arizona. The facility, known as Fab 42, is expected to produce the most advanced chips using the company's 18A process technology. "This funding will help accelerate Intel's investment in Chandler and support the company's goal of becoming a major provider of foundry capacity in the U.S.," said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in a statement. Intel's commitment to US manufacturing Intel's CEO, Pat Gelsinger, has been a vocal advocate for strengthening the US semiconductor industry. The company has pledged to invest $20 billion in the construction of two new factories in Arizona and another $20 billion for a new facility in Ohio. "Intel is proud to be a part of the CHIPS Act and to continue investing in US manufacturing," said Gelsinger. "This funding will help us accelerate our plans to build the most advanced semiconductor manufacturing capacity in the world right here in America." Strengthening the US semiconductor industry The CHIPS Act is a critical component of the Biden administration's strategy to address the global chip shortage and ensure the long-term competitiveness of the US semiconductor industry. The legislation aims to reduce the country's reliance on foreign chip suppliers, particularly Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), which currently dominates the global foundry market. By investing in domestic chip manufacturing, the US government hopes to create jobs, attract more private investment, and secure a reliable supply of semiconductors for key industries such as automotive, healthcare, and defense. Hence, Intel's award under the CHIPS Act is a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to strengthen the US semiconductor industry. This funding will support the company's expansion plans and contribute to the creation of high-tech jobs in Arizona. As the global demand for advanced chips continues to grow, the CHIPS Act will play a crucial role in ensuring that the US remains at the forefront of semiconductor technology.

Intel awarded up to $3 billion under CHIPS Act to boost domestic supply chains in US

The US government accuses the software company Adobe Inc.&nbsp;of misleading consumers about significant termination penalties in its well-liked subscription plans and making it more difficult to terminate subscriptions. The government filed a lawsuit against Adobe Inc. on Monday.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">FTC details hidden charges in the complaint<o:p></o:p></h2>

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) claimed in a complaint filed with a federal court in San Jose, California, that Adobe hides important terms and expensive termination fees, which can amount to hundreds of dollars, in the fine print of its "annual paid monthly" subscription plan, sometimes even behind textboxes and hyperlinks. When customers cancel within the first year of their subscription, Adobe calculates early termination penalties as 50 per cent of the remaining payments, according to the FTC.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Obstructive cancellation practices alleged<o:p></o:p></h2>

The FTC also charged Adobe with unduly complicating the process of cancelling a subscription. If customers want to cancel over the phone, they frequently experience "resistance and delay" from the staff, must repeat their demands to many personnel, and must browse through multiple pages. Additionally mentioned as defendants in the lawsuit are two Adobe executives: Maninder Sawhney, senior vice president in digital sales, and David Wadhwani, president of digital media business.<o:p></o:p>

Samuel Levine, director of the FTC Consumer Protection Bureau, stated that "Adobe trapped customers into year-long subscriptions through hidden early termination fees and numerous cancellation hurdles. Americans are tired of companies hiding the ball during subscription signup and then making roadblocks when they try to cancel."<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Adobe vows to contest the claims<o:p></o:p></h2>

In response to the accusations, Adobe's general counsel and chief trust officer, Dana Rao, said that the San Jose-based business will contest the FTC's charges in court. "Subscription services are convenient, flexible, and cost-effective, allowing users to choose the plan that best fits their needs, timeline, and budget," Rao stated. "We are transparent with the terms and conditions of our subscription agreements and have a simple cancellation process."<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Significant revenue from subscriptions<o:p></o:p></h2>

A significant source of income for Adobe is its subscription business, which generated $4.92 billion, or 95 per cent, of the company's $5.18 billion in sales for the quarter that ended on March 1.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Violation of Federal Law alleged<o:p></o:p></h2>

Adobe is being accused by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of breaking the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act of 2010, a federal legislation passed in 2010 that forbids merchants from charging for anything, including automatic subscription renewals, provided they acquire the informed agreement of their customers and explicitly disclose any material terms.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Agencies)<o:p></o:p>

The US government accuses the software company Adobe Inc. of misleading consumers about significant termination penalties in its well-liked subscription plans and making it more difficult to terminate subscriptions.

The US government accuses the software company Adobe Inc. of misleading consumers about significant termination penalties in its well-liked subscription plans and making it more difficult to terminate subscriptions. The government filed a lawsuit against Adobe Inc. on Monday. FTC details hidden charges in the complaint The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) claimed in a complaint filed with a federal court in San Jose, California, that Adobe hides important terms and expensive termination fees, which can amount to hundreds of dollars, in the fine print of its "annual paid monthly" subscription plan, sometimes even behind textboxes and hyperlinks. When customers cancel within the first year of their subscription, Adobe calculates early termination penalties as 50 per cent of the remaining payments, according to the FTC. Obstructive cancellation practices alleged The FTC also charged Adobe with unduly complicating the process of cancelling a subscription. If customers want to cancel over the phone, they frequently experience "resistance and delay" from the staff, must repeat their demands to many personnel, and must browse through multiple pages. Additionally mentioned as defendants in the lawsuit are two Adobe executives: Maninder Sawhney, senior vice president in digital sales, and David Wadhwani, president of digital media business. Samuel Levine, director of the FTC Consumer Protection Bureau, stated that "Adobe trapped customers into year-long subscriptions through hidden early termination fees and numerous cancellation hurdles. Americans are tired of companies hiding the ball during subscription signup and then making roadblocks when they try to cancel." Adobe vows to contest the claims In response to the accusations, Adobe's general counsel and chief trust officer, Dana Rao, said that the San Jose-based business will contest the FTC's charges in court. "Subscription services are convenient, flexible, and cost-effective, allowing users to choose the plan that best fits their needs, timeline, and budget," Rao stated. "We are transparent with the terms and conditions of our subscription agreements and have a simple cancellation process." Significant revenue from subscriptions A significant source of income for Adobe is its subscription business, which generated $4.92 billion, or 95 per cent, of the company's $5.18 billion in sales for the quarter that ended on March 1. Violation of Federal Law alleged Adobe is being accused by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of breaking the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act of 2010, a federal legislation passed in 2010 that forbids merchants from charging for anything, including automatic subscription renewals, provided they acquire the informed agreement of their customers and explicitly disclose any material terms. (With inputs from Agencies)

US Government sues Adobe over concealed termination fees

Watch Headlines of the hour: - US 'poised' to sanction IDF unit - Maldives Elections 2024: Voting underway - US house passes $95 billion aid bill - Kyiv praises, Moscow condemns aid move - Tel Aviv: Protests grow against Netanyahu

TikTok told to snap links with China | US 'poised' to sanction IDF unit

The US Department of Justice, along with 15 states, has filed a lawsuit against Apple, accusing the tech giant of monopolising the smartphone market and driving up prices. <o:p></o:p>

This legal action is part of a broader crackdown on Big Tech companies, with Apple joining the ranks of competitors like Google, Meta Platforms, and Amazon that have faced regulatory scrutiny under both the Trump and Biden administrations.<o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited Attorney General Merrick Garland who said, “Consumers should not have to pay higher prices because companies violate the antitrust laws. If left unchallenged, Apple will only continue to strengthen its smartphone monopoly.” <o:p></o:p>

The lawsuit alleges that Apple charges exorbitant prices for its iPhones, with some models priced as high as $1,599, and reaps larger profits compared to its industry peers.<o:p></o:p>

The Justice Department claims that Apple imposes various fees on its business partners, including software developers, credit card companies, and even rivals like Google. <o:p></o:p>

These hidden charges allegedly contribute to higher prices for consumers and boost Apple's profits. <o:p></o:p>

The lawsuit seeks to challenge Apple's longstanding business model, which focuses on controlling nearly every aspect of its technology products, from hardware to software.<o:p></o:p>

In response to the allegations, Apple denied any wrongdoing, with the company stating, “This lawsuit threatens who we are and the principles that set Apple products apart in fiercely competitive markets. If successful, it would hinder our ability to create the kind of technology people expect from Apple — where hardware, software, and services intersect.” <o:p></o:p>

Despite Apple's denial, the Justice Department is pushing for significant changes, including potential structural reforms or breakup of the company to restore competition in the smartphone market.<o:p></o:p>

The 88-page lawsuit, filed in US federal court in Newark, New Jersey, aims to “free smartphone markets from Apple's anticompetitive and exclusionary conduct and restore competition to lower smartphone prices for consumers, reduce fees for developers, and preserve innovation for the future.” <o:p></o:p>

The lawsuit cites five specific instances where Apple allegedly suppressed technologies that could have increased competition among smartphones, such as super apps, cloud stream game apps, messaging apps, smartwatches, and digital wallets.<o:p></o:p>

One of the key issues raised in the lawsuit is Apple's restrictive app store policies, which the Justice Department claims have hindered competition and consumer choice. <o:p></o:p>

The government seeks to define the market as that of smartphones in the United States, where Apple holds slightly over half of the market share. <o:p></o:p>

However, Apple representatives argue for a global market definition, where the iPhone accounts for only one-fifth of consumers.<o:p></o:p>

The Justice Department also referenced an email chain from Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, who passed away in 2011, where he expressed frustration over consumers switching from iPhones to Android phones. <o:p></o:p>

Jobs vowed to “force” developers to use Apple's payment systems in an attempt to lock in both developers and consumers. <o:p></o:p>

The specific changes sought by the Justice Department remain unclear, but the complaint calls for measures to prevent Apple from using its control over app distribution and contracts to undermine rivals.<o:p></o:p>

This is not the first time Apple has faced antitrust probes and legal challenges. <o:p></o:p>

The company has been subject to investigations and orders in Europe, Japan, and Korea, as well as lawsuits from corporate rivals like Epic Games. <o:p></o:p>

In Europe, Apple's App Store business model has already been impacted by the Digital Markets Act, which requires the company to allow developers to offer their own app stores without paying commissions.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

The US Department of Justice, along with 15 states, has filed a lawsuit against Apple, accusing the tech giant of monopolising the smartphone market and driving up prices.

The US Department of Justice, along with 15 states, has filed a lawsuit against Apple, accusing the tech giant of monopolising the smartphone market and driving up prices. This legal action is part of a broader crackdown on Big Tech companies, with Apple joining the ranks of competitors like Google, Meta Platforms, and Amazon that have faced regulatory scrutiny under both the Trump and Biden administrations. Reuters cited Attorney General Merrick Garland who said, “Consumers should not have to pay higher prices because companies violate the antitrust laws. If left unchallenged, Apple will only continue to strengthen its smartphone monopoly.” The lawsuit alleges that Apple charges exorbitant prices for its iPhones, with some models priced as high as $1,599, and reaps larger profits compared to its industry peers. The Justice Department claims that Apple imposes various fees on its business partners, including software developers, credit card companies, and even rivals like Google. These hidden charges allegedly contribute to higher prices for consumers and boost Apple's profits. The lawsuit seeks to challenge Apple's longstanding business model, which focuses on controlling nearly every aspect of its technology products, from hardware to software. In response to the allegations, Apple denied any wrongdoing, with the company stating, “This lawsuit threatens who we are and the principles that set Apple products apart in fiercely competitive markets. If successful, it would hinder our ability to create the kind of technology people expect from Apple — where hardware, software, and services intersect.” Despite Apple's denial, the Justice Department is pushing for significant changes, including potential structural reforms or breakup of the company to restore competition in the smartphone market. The 88-page lawsuit, filed in US federal court in Newark, New Jersey, aims to “free smartphone markets from Apple's anticompetitive and exclusionary conduct and restore competition to lower smartphone prices for consumers, reduce fees for developers, and preserve innovation for the future.” The lawsuit cites five specific instances where Apple allegedly suppressed technologies that could have increased competition among smartphones, such as super apps, cloud stream game apps, messaging apps, smartwatches, and digital wallets. One of the key issues raised in the lawsuit is Apple's restrictive app store policies, which the Justice Department claims have hindered competition and consumer choice. The government seeks to define the market as that of smartphones in the United States, where Apple holds slightly over half of the market share. However, Apple representatives argue for a global market definition, where the iPhone accounts for only one-fifth of consumers. The Justice Department also referenced an email chain from Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, who passed away in 2011, where he expressed frustration over consumers switching from iPhones to Android phones. Jobs vowed to “force” developers to use Apple's payment systems in an attempt to lock in both developers and consumers. The specific changes sought by the Justice Department remain unclear, but the complaint calls for measures to prevent Apple from using its control over app distribution and contracts to undermine rivals. This is not the first time Apple has faced antitrust probes and legal challenges. The company has been subject to investigations and orders in Europe, Japan, and Korea, as well as lawsuits from corporate rivals like Epic Games. In Europe, Apple's App Store business model has already been impacted by the Digital Markets Act, which requires the company to allow developers to offer their own app stores without paying commissions. (With inputs from Reuters)

US government and 15 states sue Apple for alleged smartphone market monopoly

Advanced Micro Devices has encountered a challenge in its efforts to offer an artificial intelligence chip specifically designed for the Chinese market,&nbsp;Bloomberg News reported.

The move comes amidst Washington's intensified scrutiny and crackdown on the export of advanced technologies to China.

According to sources familiar with the matter, AMD sought approval from the US Commerce Department to sell the AI processor to China, which was specifically designed to comply with US export restrictions.

However, the chip's performance, albeit lower compared to versions sold outside of China, has been deemed by US officials as still too powerful.

Consequently, the company has been instructed to obtain a license from the Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security to proceed with the sale in China.

The AI chip developed by AMD, although tailored for the Chinese market and designed to meet US export regulations, has encountered regulatory hurdles due to concerns over its capabilities.

Despite efforts to ensure compliance, US officials maintain that the processor requires further scrutiny and control to prevent its potential misuse or diversion for military purposes.

Neither AMD nor the Commerce Department immediately responded to requests for comment from Reuters.

This development follows broader measures taken by the US government to curb the flow of advanced technologies to China, particularly those with potential military applications.

In October, the US announced plans to halt shipments of more advanced artificial intelligence chips, including those designed by Nvidia, as part of efforts to prevent Beijing from acquiring cutting-edge US technologies that could bolster its military capabilities.

(With inputs from agencies)

Advanced Micro Devices has encountered a challenge in its efforts to offer an artificial intelligence chip specifically designed for the Chinese market, Bloomberg News reported.

Advanced Micro Devices has encountered a challenge in its efforts to offer an artificial intelligence chip specifically designed for the Chinese market, Bloomberg News reported. The move comes amidst Washington's intensified scrutiny and crackdown on the export of advanced technologies to China. According to sources familiar with the matter, AMD sought approval from the US Commerce Department to sell the AI processor to China, which was specifically designed to comply with US export restrictions. However, the chip's performance, albeit lower compared to versions sold outside of China, has been deemed by US officials as still too powerful. Consequently, the company has been instructed to obtain a license from the Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security to proceed with the sale in China. The AI chip developed by AMD, although tailored for the Chinese market and designed to meet US export regulations, has encountered regulatory hurdles due to concerns over its capabilities. Despite efforts to ensure compliance, US officials maintain that the processor requires further scrutiny and control to prevent its potential misuse or diversion for military purposes. Neither AMD nor the Commerce Department immediately responded to requests for comment from Reuters. This development follows broader measures taken by the US government to curb the flow of advanced technologies to China, particularly those with potential military applications. In October, the US announced plans to halt shipments of more advanced artificial intelligence chips, including those designed by Nvidia, as part of efforts to prevent Beijing from acquiring cutting-edge US technologies that could bolster its military capabilities. (With inputs from agencies)

AMD faces setback as US Government blocks sale of AI chip to China

The House of Representatives passed a temporary spending bill with broad bipartisan support to avert a looming government shutdown. The bipartisan effort garnered a 336-95 vote, signaling a crucial step in preventing disruptions to federal agencies as current funding approaches its expiration at midnight on Friday.

US Congress passes spending bill to avert government shutdown | World Business Watch

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a temporary spending bill, steering the country away from a potential government shutdown. The legislation, which extends government funding through mid-January, garnered widespread support from lawmakers across party lines.

According to Reuters, this crucial development now shifts the focus to the Senate, where leaders from both Democratic and Republican factions have expressed their backing for the bill. The passing of the 336-95 vote marks a significant victory for House Speaker Mike Johnson, who faced challenges from some Republicans in the first consequential vote since assuming the position less than three weeks ago.

The Senate, alongside the Republican-controlled House, must swiftly enact legislation that President Joe Biden can sign into law before the current funding for federal agencies expires at midnight on Friday.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat, expressed satisfaction with the strong bipartisan vote in the House and committed to working with his Republican counterpart, Mitch McConnell, to pass the bill as expeditiously as possible. The bill's passage with 209 Democratic and 127 Republican votes reflects a collective effort to navigate fiscal challenges and ensure the continuity of government functions.

The temporary spending bill, designed to extend government funding at current levels into 2024, offers a reprieve for lawmakers to formulate detailed spending bills covering diverse sectors, from the military to scientific research. While the bill received support from both Democrats and a significant number of Republicans, some conservative Republicans voiced frustration over its omission of steep spending cuts and desired border-security measures.

Despite these concerns, the bill passed with a majority, signalling a willingness among lawmakers to prioritise averting a shutdown and ensuring the stability of critical government functions. Representative Mike Garcia, a Republican, acknowledged the imperfections of the bill. "This isn't ideal, but a shutdown is a far worse world to be in," Reuters quoted her as saying.

The bill, crafted by House Speaker Mike Johnson, extends funding for various essential sectors, including military construction, veterans benefits, transportation, housing, urban development, agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and energy and water programs through January 19.

However, funding for all other federal operations, including defence, would expire on February 2. The strategic timing of the extension provides lawmakers with a window to deliberate and formulate detailed spending plans, contributing to a more stable and predictable fiscal landscape.

The ongoing fiscal challenges and political gridlock have prompted heightened scrutiny, with Moody's lowering its credit rating outlook on the U.S. to "negative," citing concerns about high-interest rates impacting borrowing costs.

(With inputs from Reuters)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a temporary spending bill, steering the country away from a potential government shutdown. The legislation, which extends government funding through mid-January, garnered widespread support from lawmakers across party lines.

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a temporary spending bill, steering the country away from a potential government shutdown. The legislation, which extends government funding through mid-January, garnered widespread support from lawmakers across party lines. According to Reuters, this crucial development now shifts the focus to the Senate, where leaders from both Democratic and Republican factions have expressed their backing for the bill. The passing of the 336-95 vote marks a significant victory for House Speaker Mike Johnson, who faced challenges from some Republicans in the first consequential vote since assuming the position less than three weeks ago. The Senate, alongside the Republican-controlled House, must swiftly enact legislation that President Joe Biden can sign into law before the current funding for federal agencies expires at midnight on Friday. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat, expressed satisfaction with the strong bipartisan vote in the House and committed to working with his Republican counterpart, Mitch McConnell, to pass the bill as expeditiously as possible. The bill's passage with 209 Democratic and 127 Republican votes reflects a collective effort to navigate fiscal challenges and ensure the continuity of government functions. The temporary spending bill, designed to extend government funding at current levels into 2024, offers a reprieve for lawmakers to formulate detailed spending bills covering diverse sectors, from the military to scientific research. While the bill received support from both Democrats and a significant number of Republicans, some conservative Republicans voiced frustration over its omission of steep spending cuts and desired border-security measures. Despite these concerns, the bill passed with a majority, signalling a willingness among lawmakers to prioritise averting a shutdown and ensuring the stability of critical government functions. Representative Mike Garcia, a Republican, acknowledged the imperfections of the bill. "This isn't ideal, but a shutdown is a far worse world to be in," Reuters quoted her as saying. The bill, crafted by House Speaker Mike Johnson, extends funding for various essential sectors, including military construction, veterans benefits, transportation, housing, urban development, agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and energy and water programs through January 19. However, funding for all other federal operations, including defence, would expire on February 2. The strategic timing of the extension provides lawmakers with a window to deliberate and formulate detailed spending plans, contributing to a more stable and predictable fiscal landscape. The ongoing fiscal challenges and political gridlock have prompted heightened scrutiny, with Moody's lowering its credit rating outlook on the U.S. to "negative," citing concerns about high-interest rates impacting borrowing costs. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US House passes crucial spending bill to avert government shutdown

Hours after the&nbsp;US Congress passed the stopgap bill, President Joe Biden&nbsp;signed the bill and&nbsp;averted the government shutdown just before the&nbsp;funding for federal agencies was about to run out, said the White House, in a statement.

"I just signed a law to keep the government open for 47 days. There’s plenty of time to pass Government funding bills for the next fiscal year, and I strongly urge Congress to get to work right away. The American people expect their government to work. Let’s make sure it does," said Biden in a post on X. He also posted a photo of the signing of the bill.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I just signed a law to keep the government open for 47 days. There’s plenty of time to pass Government funding bills for the next fiscal year, and I strongly urge Congress to get to work right away. 
 
The American people expect their government to work. 
 
Let’s make sure it does. <a href="https://t.co/ffjwUIPWIt">pic.twitter.com/ffjwUIPWIt</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1708323029745389928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In the 11th hour, the US Congress passed the government funding bill on Saturday (Sep 30) to ensure that the federal agencies continue running for the next 45 days and averted a costly shutdown. However, the deal did not include aid to war-torn Ukraine, which was requested by President Joe Biden.

With three hours left before midnight Saturday deadline, the Senate voted in favour of a resolution, which had advanced earlier from the House of Representatives to continue government funding through mid-November.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy pitched the last-ditch "continuing resolution" as government functions from federal policymaking to military operations to food aid stood on the verge of getting upended and the future of millions of public workers remained uncertain.

<h2>Ukraine aid needs to be passed after shutdown deal: Biden</h2>

Welcoming the deal which averted a government shutdown on Saturday (Sep 30), US President Joe Biden appealed to Congress to swiftly give approval to Ukraine aid which was left out of the agreement.

"Tonight, bipartisan majorities in the House and Senate voted to keep the government open, preventing an unnecessary crisis that would have inflicted needless pain on millions of hardworking Americans," said Biden, in a statement.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tonight, Congress voted to keep the government open, preventing an unnecessary crisis that would have inflicted needless pain on millions of hardworking Americans. 
 
This is good news, but I want to be clear: we should never have been in this position in the first place. <a href="https://t.co/U28kaX11Rq">pic.twitter.com/U28kaX11Rq</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1708290185505419283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"We cannot under any circumstances allow American support for Ukraine to be interrupted. I fully expect the Speaker will keep his commitment to the people of Ukraine and secure passage of the support needed to help Ukraine at this critical moment," he said while speaking about Republican House leader Kevin McCarthy.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-likely-to-happen-if-us-government-shutdown-on-october-1-639264">Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts down on October 1?</a>

The US lawmakers should now wrangle on a separate bill which will provide Ukraine with military assistance of $24 billion that Biden was appealing in the budget, with voting likely to be held early next week.

The hardline Republicans, who defied their own party leadership and continued pressing for deep spending cuts while rejecting temporary funding proposals, triggered the shutdown crisis.

The group of 21 hardliners had said that they would remove McCarthy as speaker if the House passed a stopgap measure they opposed with the support of Democrats.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade

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One of the group Republicans, Lauren Boebert said, “There are too many members here who are comfortable doing things the way they've been done since the mid-90s. And that's why we're sitting at $33 trillion in debt."

Meanwhile, McCarthy said, "In 45 days we should get our work all done," while offering a hand to the hardliners, and stating, "I welcome those 21 back in."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hours after the US Congress passed the stopgap bill, President Joe Biden signed the bill and averted the government shutdown just before the funding for federal agencies was about to run out, said the White House, in a statement.

Hours after the US Congress passed the stopgap bill, President Joe Biden signed the bill and averted the government shutdown just before the funding for federal agencies was about to run out, said the White House, in a statement. "I just signed a law to keep the government open for 47 days. There’s plenty of time to pass Government funding bills for the next fiscal year, and I strongly urge Congress to get to work right away. The American people expect their government to work. Let’s make sure it does," said Biden in a post on X. He also posted a photo of the signing of the bill. I just signed a law to keep the government open for 47 days. There’s plenty of time to pass Government funding bills for the next fiscal year, and I strongly urge Congress to get to work right away. The American people expect their government to work. Let’s make sure it does. pic.twitter.com/ffjwUIPWIt — President Biden (@POTUS) October 1, 2023 × In the 11th hour, the US Congress passed the government funding bill on Saturday (Sep 30) to ensure that the federal agencies continue running for the next 45 days and averted a costly shutdown. However, the deal did not include aid to war-torn Ukraine, which was requested by President Joe Biden. With three hours left before midnight Saturday deadline, the Senate voted in favour of a resolution, which had advanced earlier from the House of Representatives to continue government funding through mid-November. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy pitched the last-ditch "continuing resolution" as government functions from federal policymaking to military operations to food aid stood on the verge of getting upended and the future of millions of public workers remained uncertain. Ukraine aid needs to be passed after shutdown deal: Biden Welcoming the deal which averted a government shutdown on Saturday (Sep 30), US President Joe Biden appealed to Congress to swiftly give approval to Ukraine aid which was left out of the agreement. "Tonight, bipartisan majorities in the House and Senate voted to keep the government open, preventing an unnecessary crisis that would have inflicted needless pain on millions of hardworking Americans," said Biden, in a statement. Tonight, Congress voted to keep the government open, preventing an unnecessary crisis that would have inflicted needless pain on millions of hardworking Americans. This is good news, but I want to be clear: we should never have been in this position in the first place. pic.twitter.com/U28kaX11Rq — President Biden (@POTUS) October 1, 2023 × "We cannot under any circumstances allow American support for Ukraine to be interrupted. I fully expect the Speaker will keep his commitment to the people of Ukraine and secure passage of the support needed to help Ukraine at this critical moment," he said while speaking about Republican House leader Kevin McCarthy. ALSO READ | Explained | What is likely to happen if US government shuts down on October 1? The US lawmakers should now wrangle on a separate bill which will provide Ukraine with military assistance of $24 billion that Biden was appealing in the budget, with voting likely to be held early next week. The hardline Republicans, who defied their own party leadership and continued pressing for deep spending cuts while rejecting temporary funding proposals, triggered the shutdown crisis. The group of 21 hardliners had said that they would remove McCarthy as speaker if the House passed a stopgap measure they opposed with the support of Democrats. WATCH | Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade One of the group Republicans, Lauren Boebert said, “There are too many members here who are comfortable doing things the way they've been done since the mid-90s. And that's why we're sitting at $33 trillion in debt." Meanwhile, McCarthy said, "In 45 days we should get our work all done," while offering a hand to the hardliners, and stating, "I welcome those 21 back in." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Biden signs stopgap funding bill, US government shutdown averted last minute

China denounced a US report on Saturday that falsely claimed Beijing had spent billions of dollars promoting misinformation around the world, claiming the US government to be the world's most prolific disinformation producer ever.

China: US government biggest disinformation propagator in history

In order to avoid a costly government shutdown, the US Congress enacted a temporary funding plan that excludes President Joe Biden's requested aid for war-torn Ukraine. This will keep the federal government open until mid-November.

US government gets a 45-day breather, averts government shutdown

An ex-Air Force intelligence official told Congress on Wednesday that the US has been hiding a long-running programme that recovers and decodes unidentified flying objects. The Pentagon refuted his allegations. Retired Maj. David Grusch's eagerly awaited appearance before a House Oversight subcommittee marked Congress' most recent venture into the subject of UAPs, or "unidentified aerial phenomena," the term the U.S. government employs in place of "unidentified flying objects."

US govt is in possession of UFOs and non-human bodies: Whistleblower tells Congress

A report by the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that the US Department of Defense (DOD) spends around one billion dollars every year to develop what is known as “directed energy” weapons.&nbsp;

The weapons in question essentially fire concentrated electromagnetic energy or simply known as lasers. However, this military technology is also something that the American taxpayers are now paying at least a billion dollars for. So this is how it is being used.&nbsp;

According to the report, the DOD has developed high-energy lasers that have “successfully shot down drones in demonstrations.” The GAO who reportedly visited these defence facilities also found how the US military is working on making laser weapons small and light enough to be used by one person.&nbsp;

The Pentagon too is experimenting with high-powered microwave weapons which could potentially penetrate solid objects and this technology has several implications including, disrupting the enemy’s power source, sensors and other electronics, said the GAO.&nbsp;

Similarly, a Congressional Research Service (CRS), a non-partisan organisation which conducts research for lawmakers, in its analysis, last year, found that these high-energy lasers and microwave weapons could be useful for short-range air defence, against drones as well as to counter rocket, artillery and mortar fire, reported CBS News.&nbsp;

The CRS also found that these lasers are not only affordable but also more efficient than conventional weapons.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the GAO noted how various branches of the US military have already tested these powerful lasers. Reportedly, the US Navy has tested them on drones and small boats while the Air Force has developed a laser which can be attached to its aircraft.&nbsp;

“DOD has pursued these potentially transformative technologies for decades because they could provide considerable advantages,” stated the GAO, in its report. It added, “They can deliver destructive or disruptive effects to targets at the speed of light and have potentially significant advantages over kinetic weapons, such as missiles, including lower per-use cost.”&nbsp;

However, the GAO report finds that the departments have had difficulty “getting these technologies out of the lab and into the field for several reasons” which include determining how to use them for different missions. Additionally, the DOD’s “efforts to transition prototypes to acquisition programs face challenges,” said the government agency.&nbsp; 
 
But this is not the only hurdle that these weapons face, as directed energy weapons also have legal and functional limitations, including some laser systems being restricted under international treaties.&nbsp;

For example, the United Nations has banned laser weapons specifically designed to cause permanent blindness, while previous prototypes have reportedly been affected by atmospheric conditions like rain or fog.&nbsp;

Therefore, before these “direct energy” weapons can be put to actual use on missions, simply powering them remains a challenge, not to mention the development of new tactics to deploy this novel weaponry.&nbsp;

“As a novel technology, (directed energy) weapons require the development of new tactics, techniques and procedures — processes by which the warfighter knows how best to use a particular technology in an operational environment,” the GAO noted.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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A report by the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that the US Department of Defense (DOD) spends around one billion dollars every year to develop what is known as “directed energy” weapons.

A report by the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that the US Department of Defense (DOD) spends around one billion dollars every year to develop what is known as “directed energy” weapons. The weapons in question essentially fire concentrated electromagnetic energy or simply known as lasers. However, this military technology is also something that the American taxpayers are now paying at least a billion dollars for. So this is how it is being used. According to the report, the DOD has developed high-energy lasers that have “successfully shot down drones in demonstrations.” The GAO who reportedly visited these defence facilities also found how the US military is working on making laser weapons small and light enough to be used by one person. The Pentagon too is experimenting with high-powered microwave weapons which could potentially penetrate solid objects and this technology has several implications including, disrupting the enemy’s power source, sensors and other electronics, said the GAO. Similarly, a Congressional Research Service (CRS), a non-partisan organisation which conducts research for lawmakers, in its analysis, last year, found that these high-energy lasers and microwave weapons could be useful for short-range air defence, against drones as well as to counter rocket, artillery and mortar fire, reported CBS News. The CRS also found that these lasers are not only affordable but also more efficient than conventional weapons. Meanwhile, the GAO noted how various branches of the US military have already tested these powerful lasers. Reportedly, the US Navy has tested them on drones and small boats while the Air Force has developed a laser which can be attached to its aircraft. “DOD has pursued these potentially transformative technologies for decades because they could provide considerable advantages,” stated the GAO, in its report. It added, “They can deliver destructive or disruptive effects to targets at the speed of light and have potentially significant advantages over kinetic weapons, such as missiles, including lower per-use cost.” However, the GAO report finds that the departments have had difficulty “getting these technologies out of the lab and into the field for several reasons” which include determining how to use them for different missions. Additionally, the DOD’s “efforts to transition prototypes to acquisition programs face challenges,” said the government agency. But this is not the only hurdle that these weapons face, as directed energy weapons also have legal and functional limitations, including some laser systems being restricted under international treaties. For example, the United Nations has banned laser weapons specifically designed to cause permanent blindness, while previous prototypes have reportedly been affected by atmospheric conditions like rain or fog. Therefore, before these “direct energy” weapons can be put to actual use on missions, simply powering them remains a challenge, not to mention the development of new tactics to deploy this novel weaponry. “As a novel technology, (directed energy) weapons require the development of new tactics, techniques and procedures — processes by which the warfighter knows how best to use a particular technology in an operational environment,” the GAO noted. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pentagon spends $1 billion every year to develop ‘directed energy’ weapons

The US has hit its borrowing limit, also known as the debt ceiling, fueling fears of putting global markets in instability and setting off a budgetary battle in Congress. The looming debt ceiling crisis unsettles investors, as any default will have a major impact on the international financial markets.

So, what exactly is the debt ceiling, or borrowing cap, and why is it such a big deal?

<h2>What is a debt ceiling?</h2>

The debt ceiling determines how much money the US government can borrow for its expenses. After the borrowing cap is reached, the Treasury Department is not permitted to raise money for the government by issuing further bills, bonds, or notes. In this situation, the only source of funding for the country is tax revenues. Currently, the cap on the US government borrowing equates to around 120 per cent of the nation's yearly economic output.

<h2>Where is the borrowed money used?</h2>

US Congress determines the borrowing limit presently set at $31.4 trillion. The Federal government uses borrowed money to help pay for costs included in its budgets, such as social security and Medicare payouts and the salaries of US military and government workers.

<h2>How long can the US government survive?</h2>

Janet Yellen, the US Treasury Secretary, stated last week that the government could only pay its payments through early June if the debt ceiling is not increased. Yellen said that "extraordinary measures" are now being used to stop the United States from going into default on its financial expenses. However, Yellen's estimate for the "drop-dead date" is earlier than some experts had predicted for the US to exhaust its borrowing limit.

Indeed, many experts believe the US could reach its debt ceiling in the third or fourth quarter. According to Jonathan Cohn, Head of Rates Trading Strategy at Credit Suisse in New York, the debt ceiling may be hit between September and early November. Goldman Sachs expects the US government to run out of money anytime between August and October.

<h2>Can the US then raise the debt ceiling?</h2>

The borrowing cap has to be raised, so the US government continues to make its payments due and prevent a default. The political situation, though, is not favourable. Republicans run the House of Representatives, while Democrats have a majority in the Senate. Congress is reluctant to raise the debt ceiling because it might provide Republicans with leverage when negotiating spending cuts.

<h2>Democrats vs Republicans:</h2>

In a conversation with Fox News, newly appointed US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said one could not just keep increasing the debt ceiling. "Let's sit down and change our behaviour for the good of America. Because what we're going to do is bankrupt this country and these entitlements if we don't change their behaviour today." On the contrary, White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, said the administration would not be negotiating. If the debt ceiling is to be raised, it should be done without any conditions.

<h2>What if the debt ceiling is not raised?</h2>

If the US government cannot borrow more money, it will put existing Federal programs at risk. Investors will get jittery if the verbal battle is not resolved and no further action is taken to address the situation. The US dollar may also lose its global appeal if the Federal government defaults on its loan and interest payments. That, in turn, would weaken the greenback, hurt US financial markets and weigh on the economy, including job losses and activity gloom.

<h2>2011 political deadlock over the debt ceiling:</h2>

The United States was on the verge of default in 2011 due to political deadlock in Washington over the debt ceiling. That crashed US stocks and cost the nation its top-tier AAA credit rating from Standard &amp; Poor. According to a research report from Goldman Sachs, the S&amp;P 500 plummeted 15 per cent during the 2011 crisis, while the stock of those firms with the highest sales exposure to US federal spending fell by a quarter.

&nbsp;

The US has hit its borrowing limit, also known as the debt ceiling, fueling fears of putting global markets in instability and setting off a budgetary battle in Congress.

The US has hit its borrowing limit, also known as the debt ceiling, fueling fears of putting global markets in instability and setting off a budgetary battle in Congress. The looming debt ceiling crisis unsettles investors, as any default will have a major impact on the international financial markets. So, what exactly is the debt ceiling, or borrowing cap, and why is it such a big deal? What is a debt ceiling? The debt ceiling determines how much money the US government can borrow for its expenses. After the borrowing cap is reached, the Treasury Department is not permitted to raise money for the government by issuing further bills, bonds, or notes. In this situation, the only source of funding for the country is tax revenues. Currently, the cap on the US government borrowing equates to around 120 per cent of the nation's yearly economic output. Where is the borrowed money used? US Congress determines the borrowing limit presently set at $31.4 trillion. The Federal government uses borrowed money to help pay for costs included in its budgets, such as social security and Medicare payouts and the salaries of US military and government workers. How long can the US government survive? Janet Yellen, the US Treasury Secretary, stated last week that the government could only pay its payments through early June if the debt ceiling is not increased. Yellen said that "extraordinary measures" are now being used to stop the United States from going into default on its financial expenses. However, Yellen's estimate for the "drop-dead date" is earlier than some experts had predicted for the US to exhaust its borrowing limit. Indeed, many experts believe the US could reach its debt ceiling in the third or fourth quarter. According to Jonathan Cohn, Head of Rates Trading Strategy at Credit Suisse in New York, the debt ceiling may be hit between September and early November. Goldman Sachs expects the US government to run out of money anytime between August and October. Can the US then raise the debt ceiling? The borrowing cap has to be raised, so the US government continues to make its payments due and prevent a default. The political situation, though, is not favourable. Republicans run the House of Representatives, while Democrats have a majority in the Senate. Congress is reluctant to raise the debt ceiling because it might provide Republicans with leverage when negotiating spending cuts. Democrats vs Republicans: In a conversation with Fox News, newly appointed US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said one could not just keep increasing the debt ceiling. "Let's sit down and change our behaviour for the good of America. Because what we're going to do is bankrupt this country and these entitlements if we don't change their behaviour today." On the contrary, White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, said the administration would not be negotiating. If the debt ceiling is to be raised, it should be done without any conditions. What if the debt ceiling is not raised? If the US government cannot borrow more money, it will put existing Federal programs at risk. Investors will get jittery if the verbal battle is not resolved and no further action is taken to address the situation. The US dollar may also lose its global appeal if the Federal government defaults on its loan and interest payments. That, in turn, would weaken the greenback, hurt US financial markets and weigh on the economy, including job losses and activity gloom. 2011 political deadlock over the debt ceiling: The United States was on the verge of default in 2011 due to political deadlock in Washington over the debt ceiling. That crashed US stocks and cost the nation its top-tier AAA credit rating from Standard & Poor. According to a research report from Goldman Sachs, the S&P 500 plummeted 15 per cent during the 2011 crisis, while the stock of those firms with the highest sales exposure to US federal spending fell by a quarter.

EXPLAINED: What's US debt ceiling & why is it such a big deal?

Wimbledon 2022 champion Novak Djokovic has been dealt with a huge blow. The Serbian's Covid-19 vaccination is not a hidden fact anymore and his reluctance to take the jab is set to rule him out of the US Open 2022 edition, i.e. the last Grand Slam of the calendar year.

With the tournament organisers set to abide by the US government's guidelines on Covid vaccination, Djokovic's refusal to get vaccinated will eventually prevent him from entering the country for the forthcoming showpiece event. Despite this, he has been named on the entry list. If he doesn't participate in the tournament, the 35-year-old will also miss a golden opportunity to level with Rafael Nadal in terms of most Grand Slam titles in men's singles (22). After the Wimbledon win, over Nick Kyrgios, Djokovic has 21 major titles.

Just after winning Wimbledon 2022 on July 10, the Serbian superstar had pointed out, "I'm not vaccinated and I'm not planning to get vaccinated so the only good news I can have is them removing the mandated green vaccine card or whatever you call it to enter United States or exemption." He added, "I don't know. I don't think exemption is realistically possible. If that is possibility, I don't know what exemption would be about. I don't know. I don't have much answers there."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/novak-djokovic-extends-dominance-at-wimbledon-a-look-at-all-21-grand-slams-won-by-the-serbian-ace-496407">Novak Djokovic extends dominance at Wimbledon: A look at all 21 Grand Slams won by the Serbian ace</a>

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Our men's and women's singles entry lists have been released. 
 
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"Per the Grand Slam Rule Book, all eligible players are automatically entered into the men's and women's singles main draw fields based on ranking 42 days prior to the first Monday of the event," said a statement by the United States Tennis Association. "The US Open does not have a vaccination mandate in place for players, but it will respect the U.S. government's position regarding travel into the country for unvaccinated non-U.S. citizens," it further asserted.

The US Open will kick off on August 29 and the final will be held on September 11. Earlier, Djokovic had missed Australian Open 2022 after he was deported back to his country following the Covid vaccination row.

Wimbledon 2022 champion Novak Djokovic has been dealt with a huge blow. The Serbian's Covid-19 vaccination is not a hidden fact anymore and his reluctance to take the jab is set to rule him out of the US Open 2022 edition, i.

Wimbledon 2022 champion Novak Djokovic has been dealt with a huge blow. The Serbian's Covid-19 vaccination is not a hidden fact anymore and his reluctance to take the jab is set to rule him out of the US Open 2022 edition, i.e. the last Grand Slam of the calendar year. With the tournament organisers set to abide by the US government's guidelines on Covid vaccination, Djokovic's refusal to get vaccinated will eventually prevent him from entering the country for the forthcoming showpiece event. Despite this, he has been named on the entry list. If he doesn't participate in the tournament, the 35-year-old will also miss a golden opportunity to level with Rafael Nadal in terms of most Grand Slam titles in men's singles (22). After the Wimbledon win, over Nick Kyrgios, Djokovic has 21 major titles. Just after winning Wimbledon 2022 on July 10, the Serbian superstar had pointed out, "I'm not vaccinated and I'm not planning to get vaccinated so the only good news I can have is them removing the mandated green vaccine card or whatever you call it to enter United States or exemption." He added, "I don't know. I don't think exemption is realistically possible. If that is possibility, I don't know what exemption would be about. I don't know. I don't have much answers there." ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic extends dominance at Wimbledon: A look at all 21 Grand Slams won by the Serbian ace Our men's and women's singles entry lists have been released. Read more: — US Open Tennis (@usopen) July 20, 2022 × "Per the Grand Slam Rule Book, all eligible players are automatically entered into the men's and women's singles main draw fields based on ranking 42 days prior to the first Monday of the event," said a statement by the United States Tennis Association. "The US Open does not have a vaccination mandate in place for players, but it will respect the U.S. government's position regarding travel into the country for unvaccinated non-U.S. citizens," it further asserted. The US Open will kick off on August 29 and the final will be held on September 11. Earlier, Djokovic had missed Australian Open 2022 after he was deported back to his country following the Covid vaccination row.

Novak Djokovic to be ruled out of US Open as organisers to follow govt's guidelines on COVID-19 vaccine

A new poll published by the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics (IOP) has shown that over a &nbsp;quarter of US residents feel so estranged from their government that they feel it might “soon be necessary to take up arms” against it.

The survey, conducted on 1,000 registered US voters, suggests that extreme polarisation is taking place in US politics.

It also reveals that most Americans agree the government is “corrupt and rigged against everyday people like me”.

The survey comes as a congressional committee is holding public hearings on the January 6 insurrection which stemmed from the false, partisan, pro-Donald Trump belief that Joe Biden did not win the 2020 election.&nbsp;

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-story-so-far-whats-next-key-takeaways-from-the-us-capitol-riot-hearings-491846">From story so far what's next: Key takeaways from the US Capitol riot hearings</a>

In an effort to keep Trump in office, Trump's supporters attempted to thwart certification of the election.

GOP Trump loyalists have insisted that the committee is illegitimate although the violent insurrectionists targeted Republicans and Democrats alike.

Republicans, Democrats and independents were dramatically split even though 56 per cent of participants said they “generally trust elections to be conducted fairly and counted accurately”.

While 80 per cent of Democrats voiced overall trust in elections it dipped to 51 per cent among independents and a mere 33 per cent of Republicans.

Republican pollster Neil Newhouse, who conducted the survey in May with Democratic pollster Joel Benenson, issued a statement saying “While we’ve documented for years the partisan polarisation in the country, these poll results are perhaps the starkest evidence of the deep divisions in partisan attitudes rippling through the country.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new poll published by the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics (IOP) has shown that over a quarter of US residents feel so estranged from their government that they feel it might “soon be necessary to take up arms” against it.

A new poll published by the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics (IOP) has shown that over a quarter of US residents feel so estranged from their government that they feel it might “soon be necessary to take up arms” against it. The survey, conducted on 1,000 registered US voters, suggests that extreme polarisation is taking place in US politics. It also reveals that most Americans agree the government is “corrupt and rigged against everyday people like me”. The survey comes as a congressional committee is holding public hearings on the January 6 insurrection which stemmed from the false, partisan, pro-Donald Trump belief that Joe Biden did not win the 2020 election. Also see | From story so far what's next: Key takeaways from the US Capitol riot hearings In an effort to keep Trump in office, Trump's supporters attempted to thwart certification of the election. GOP Trump loyalists have insisted that the committee is illegitimate although the violent insurrectionists targeted Republicans and Democrats alike. Republicans, Democrats and independents were dramatically split even though 56 per cent of participants said they “generally trust elections to be conducted fairly and counted accurately”. While 80 per cent of Democrats voiced overall trust in elections it dipped to 51 per cent among independents and a mere 33 per cent of Republicans. Republican pollster Neil Newhouse, who conducted the survey in May with Democratic pollster Joel Benenson, issued a statement saying “While we’ve documented for years the partisan polarisation in the country, these poll results are perhaps the starkest evidence of the deep divisions in partisan attitudes rippling through the country.” (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Poll shows a quarter of Americans open to taking up arms against government

The US government is planning to ban menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars which have taken a disproportionate toll on smokers and other minorities. The FDA says that the proposal would reduce disease and death by helping smokers quit and stopping young people from starting

US plans to ban Methanol cigarettes to reduce disease and death

Joe Biden has been the US president for more than 300 days. In all these days he oversaw the botch-up in Afghanistan as American forces were pushed out by the Taliban.

13 US service members had died in the Kabul airport attack as the Taliban ended up with American weapons. Biden also failed to ease tensions with China and Russia.

Under him, America has failed to effectively challenge Beijing and with Moscow&nbsp;the confrontation is going from bad to worse. In fact, Russia is threatening to invade Ukraine. Iran has been another failure. Peace with Iran was Biden's big-ticket promise, however, he has failed to deliver.&nbsp;

The Iran nuclear deal has not been revived.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas - Biden rewards billionaire donors with ambassador postings

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In the domestic area, Biden's report card is bleak. The US president's biggest plan - the&nbsp;$1.75 trillion "build back better" plan has died in the US Congress as the Biden administration couldn't get the bill passed.

It now increasingly looks Joe Biden may become a one-term president since he has made the same serious mistakes.

The president has been caught rewarding his billionaire friends. The wealthy campaign donors who financed his presidential run.

They are now being made US ambassadors. In a way, the new men and women have been rewarded with diplomatic posts for funding the Biden election campaign.

The Democrats had earlier slammed Donald Trump for picking "loyalists" as ambassadors. However, a democratic president is now doing the same thing.

The first name is Constance Milstein who is a New York real estate titan. She gave $725,000 to the fundraising committee that ended up sponsoring Joe Biden's presidential campaign.

Constance Milstein is America's new ambassador to Malta. The next name on the list is Margaret Whitman. She is the former CEO of Hewlett Packard and eBay. Whitman had donated over $500,000 to the Biden campaign. She has now been rewarded as the US ambassador to Kenya.

George Tsunis is on the controversial list. Tsunis is an American hotel magnate. He is also a long time mega donor to the Democrats. He gave over $500,000 to Biden's campaign.

The US president has picked him to serve as the next ambassador to Greece. It is not the first time Tsunis has been rewarded for bankrolling a president.

He also donated to the Obama campaign and was chosen to be the US ambassador to Norway, however it proved to be a disastrous choice. US lawmakers held a hearing to assess him and Tsunis was exposed. He had never been to Norway.

When Tsunis appeared for his confirmation hearing he only embarrassed himself. He said Norway has a president which it doesn't - it has a king and a prime minister.

"There are a lot of markets that will continue to open up. uh ..." said Tsunis, trailing off amid a statement about US-Norwegian trade.

"Let me just ask, as ambassador, how you promote those trade cooperations?" interjected Senator Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican.

"Thank you for that save, Senator Johnson," Tsunis said.

Tsunis then described one of Norway's major political parties — a member of the current coalition government — as a "fringe element" that "spewed hatred." Arizona Republican John Mccain was unimpressed.

"The government has denounced them?" Mccain said. "They're part of the coalition of the government."

"You know what? I stand corrected," an embarrassed Tsunis responded.

Ultimately, Tsunis had to withdraw his nomination and the position of Norway's ambassador remained vacant for almost two years.

It was a major embarrassment for the Democrats. Now, another Democratic president in the White House has picked the same man.

Biden wants to make Tsunis an ambassador after everything that happened in 2014 and money seems to be the guiding force since Biden is already running late.

Almost a year into office, he still hasn't got his diplomatic corps in order. When he took office, he had to fill a total of 190 diplomatic posts. The Biden administration gave 80 new names, however, 65 diplomatic posts are still empty.

The reason is either Team Biden hasn't named a nominee for the post or the nominee hasn't been confirmed by the US Congress.

When Biden came to office he had an advantage since the Democrats controlled the US Congress, however, as of today, Biden has been unable to get his own nominations passed.

Joe Biden had promised change for the better, however, like most of the Washington elites he is offering more of the same.

Joe Biden has been the US president for more than 300 days. In all these days he oversaw the botch-up in Afghanistan as American forces were pushed out by the Taliban.

Joe Biden has been the US president for more than 300 days. In all these days he oversaw the botch-up in Afghanistan as American forces were pushed out by the Taliban. 13 US service members had died in the Kabul airport attack as the Taliban ended up with American weapons. Biden also failed to ease tensions with China and Russia. Under him, America has failed to effectively challenge Beijing and with Moscow the confrontation is going from bad to worse. In fact, Russia is threatening to invade Ukraine. Iran has been another failure. Peace with Iran was Biden's big-ticket promise, however, he has failed to deliver. The Iran nuclear deal has not been revived. Watch | Gravitas - Biden rewards billionaire donors with ambassador postings In the domestic area, Biden's report card is bleak. The US president's biggest plan - the $1.75 trillion "build back better" plan has died in the US Congress as the Biden administration couldn't get the bill passed. It now increasingly looks Joe Biden may become a one-term president since he has made the same serious mistakes. The president has been caught rewarding his billionaire friends. The wealthy campaign donors who financed his presidential run. They are now being made US ambassadors. In a way, the new men and women have been rewarded with diplomatic posts for funding the Biden election campaign. The Democrats had earlier slammed Donald Trump for picking "loyalists" as ambassadors. However, a democratic president is now doing the same thing. The first name is Constance Milstein who is a New York real estate titan. She gave $725,000 to the fundraising committee that ended up sponsoring Joe Biden's presidential campaign. Constance Milstein is America's new ambassador to Malta. The next name on the list is Margaret Whitman. She is the former CEO of Hewlett Packard and eBay. Whitman had donated over $500,000 to the Biden campaign. She has now been rewarded as the US ambassador to Kenya. George Tsunis is on the controversial list. Tsunis is an American hotel magnate. He is also a long time mega donor to the Democrats. He gave over $500,000 to Biden's campaign. The US president has picked him to serve as the next ambassador to Greece. It is not the first time Tsunis has been rewarded for bankrolling a president. He also donated to the Obama campaign and was chosen to be the US ambassador to Norway, however it proved to be a disastrous choice. US lawmakers held a hearing to assess him and Tsunis was exposed. He had never been to Norway. When Tsunis appeared for his confirmation hearing he only embarrassed himself. He said Norway has a president which it doesn't - it has a king and a prime minister. "There are a lot of markets that will continue to open up. uh ..." said Tsunis, trailing off amid a statement about US-Norwegian trade. "Let me just ask, as ambassador, how you promote those trade cooperations?" interjected Senator Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican. "Thank you for that save, Senator Johnson," Tsunis said. Tsunis then described one of Norway's major political parties — a member of the current coalition government — as a "fringe element" that "spewed hatred." Arizona Republican John Mccain was unimpressed. "The government has denounced them?" Mccain said. "They're part of the coalition of the government." "You know what? I stand corrected," an embarrassed Tsunis responded. Ultimately, Tsunis had to withdraw his nomination and the position of Norway's ambassador remained vacant for almost two years. It was a major embarrassment for the Democrats. Now, another Democratic president in the White House has picked the same man. Biden wants to make Tsunis an ambassador after everything that happened in 2014 and money seems to be the guiding force since Biden is already running late. Almost a year into office, he still hasn't got his diplomatic corps in order. When he took office, he had to fill a total of 190 diplomatic posts. The Biden administration gave 80 new names, however, 65 diplomatic posts are still empty. The reason is either Team Biden hasn't named a nominee for the post or the nominee hasn't been confirmed by the US Congress. When Biden came to office he had an advantage since the Democrats controlled the US Congress, however, as of today, Biden has been unable to get his own nominations passed. Joe Biden had promised change for the better, however, like most of the Washington elites he is offering more of the same.

Biden's agenda: Picking wealthy donors as envoys

The roughly 15% of the population living in rural America includes some of the oldest and sickest patients in the country — a disparity that has grown more stark during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Biden administration is investing more in telemedicine, whose use has grown sharply during the pandemic, as a way to improve their access to care.

Last month, the Department of Health and Human Services announced that it was distributing nearly $20 million to strengthen telehealth services — usually medical appointments that take place by video or phone — in rural and underserved communities across the country. While the amount is relatively modest, it is part of a broader push to address the long-neglected health care infrastructure in those areas.

The spending includes about $4 million to help bring primary, acute and behavioral health care directly to patients via telehealth in 11 states, including Arkansas, Arizona and Maine.

The money will update technology in rural health care clinics, train doctors and nurses how to conduct telehealth appointments and teach patients how to take advantage of virtual appointments when they cannot see a doctor in person.

An additional $4.3 million will help specialists at academic medical centers provide training and support to primary care providers in rural and other underserved areas via “tele-mentoring,” so that they can treat patients in their communities with complex conditions, such as long COVID or substance use disorders.

“Telehealth expands access to care and is a vital tool for improving health equity,” said Diana Espinosa, the acting administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, an agency within the department that is distributing the money. “This funding will help drive the innovation necessary to build clinical networks, educational opportunities and trusted resources to further advance telehealth.”

Rural Americans are at greater risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, accidental injury, chronic respiratory illnesses and strokes than their urban counterparts, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The pandemic, too, has hit them disproportionately: ICU beds have been sparse in rural Idaho during virus surges. Navajo Nation in rural Arizona once had a higher virus death rate than New York City.

In August, the Biden administration provided billions of dollars to rural communities through the American Rescue Plan — separate from the $20 million — to address virus concerns, including by expanding telehealth, and to help rebuild crumbling health care infrastructure.

Other investments in rural health during the pandemic have included improving training for clinicians working at rural Veterans Affairs hospitals; more than $8 billion to help hospitals and doctors’ offices make up for lost revenues and increased expenses during that time; and $350 million to rural communities for food, medical supplies and vaccines.

Even though telehealth has become more mainstream during the pandemic, challenges persist. It remains inaccessible in areas without internet or proper speeds. And there is still a lot of uncertainty about how using telemedicine more would affect insurers’ and hospitals’ bottom lines over time, not to mention patient outcomes.

A large body of research supports the use of telehealth for communication and counselling, and for monitoring patients with chronic conditions, but more evidence is needed on its broader use.

The University of Mississippi Medical Center will receive more than $3.5 million of the $20 million from the Health Resources and Services Administration, through two grant programs to improve health care in rural, medically underserved areas of the state that have widespread chronic disease and high poverty rates.

The coronavirus pandemic increased not only the need for telehealth but also the amount that doctors and nurses get paid to use it. Early in the pandemic, Congress and the Trump administration expanded Medicare’s coverage of telehealth services for the duration of the public health emergency, although it is unclear whether the coverage will continue indefinitely.

“There is now momentum; telehealth is now considered part of the mainstream of health care delivery,” said Dr. Saurabh Chandra, the chief telehealth officer at the Center for Telehealth at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. “There were lots of loosening of regulations that allowed us to expand telehealth and do telehealth in a very short period of time.”

Telehealth is not just for rural areas, Chandra said. It can be used in schools and correctional facilities, as well as in patients’ homes, nursing homes, doctors’ offices and hospitals. Among other things, telehealth technology has been crucial to stabilizing rural COVID-19 patients as they await transfer, through a program commonly called “tele-ICU.”

The University of Mississippi Medical Center plans to start such a program — essentially a two-way video system that connects critically ill patients in rural hospital ICU beds with teams of doctors and nurses who specialize in caring for patients from a distance.

Angela Turner-Ford, a Democratic state senator in Mississippi who is the chairwoman of the state’s legislative Black caucus, said that increasing access to telehealth would also help medical providers combat misinformation that had been circulating among the state’s Black residents and creating high vaccine hesitancy.

If it were easier to connect with doctors regularly, many of the hesitant might change their minds, she said.

“They are left to themselves and what someone may have told them that may not be reliable information,” Turner-Ford said. “If you don’t have that existing relationship with a practitioner, someone in that instance may have known who to call just to have a simple conversation.”

Jennifer Yturriondobeitia, CEO of Cornerstone Whole Healthcare Organization, a nonprofit in Boise, Idaho, focused on improving rural health care, said the $350,000 it received will go toward telehealth for mental and substance abuse disorders. Idaho lacks treatment for these conditions, especially in rural areas, she said.

Yturriondobeitia said her group had used telehealth in Idaho since 2015. Back then, patients drove to doctors’ offices to connect with distant specialized providers. Now the focus is on connecting patients with those providers from their own homes.

In Oregon, the funding will help residents primarily in the Columbia River Gorge region. Five of the six counties that will benefit are in the vast rural area where mountain ranges form the boundary between Oregon and Washington. Poverty levels are high, and for some, a visit to the doctor can be an hour’s drive away. Nearly one-third of the population is Hispanic.

“They don’t have enough primary care doctors, they don’t have enough mental health professionals, they don’t have enough anybody there,” said Dr. Nancy Elder, director of the Oregon Rural Practice-Based Research Network, which received $475,000.

Chronic diabetes is also pervasive in the region. Elder said one way she believed the quality of care could be improved was by increasing the skills of the doctors and nurses already based there.

The region’s award will be used for Project ECHO, a program that allows rural primary care clinicians to learn from specialists by video. The meetings begin with an educational presentation, followed by a discussion of real-life clinical obstacles the providers are facing.

“They get access to expertise that they wouldn’t have,” said Maggie McLain McDonnell, director of the Oregon ECHO Network and Health Education Initiatives, “but they also get support so that they feel less alone in the challenges that they’re facing treating these patients.”

The roughly 15% of the population living in rural America includes some of the oldest and sickest patients in the country — a disparity that has grown more stark during the coronavirus pandemic.

The roughly 15% of the population living in rural America includes some of the oldest and sickest patients in the country — a disparity that has grown more stark during the coronavirus pandemic. The Biden administration is investing more in telemedicine, whose use has grown sharply during the pandemic, as a way to improve their access to care. Last month, the Department of Health and Human Services announced that it was distributing nearly $20 million to strengthen telehealth services — usually medical appointments that take place by video or phone — in rural and underserved communities across the country. While the amount is relatively modest, it is part of a broader push to address the long-neglected health care infrastructure in those areas. The spending includes about $4 million to help bring primary, acute and behavioral health care directly to patients via telehealth in 11 states, including Arkansas, Arizona and Maine. The money will update technology in rural health care clinics, train doctors and nurses how to conduct telehealth appointments and teach patients how to take advantage of virtual appointments when they cannot see a doctor in person. An additional $4.3 million will help specialists at academic medical centers provide training and support to primary care providers in rural and other underserved areas via “tele-mentoring,” so that they can treat patients in their communities with complex conditions, such as long COVID or substance use disorders. “Telehealth expands access to care and is a vital tool for improving health equity,” said Diana Espinosa, the acting administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, an agency within the department that is distributing the money. “This funding will help drive the innovation necessary to build clinical networks, educational opportunities and trusted resources to further advance telehealth.” Rural Americans are at greater risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, accidental injury, chronic respiratory illnesses and strokes than their urban counterparts, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The pandemic, too, has hit them disproportionately: ICU beds have been sparse in rural Idaho during virus surges. Navajo Nation in rural Arizona once had a higher virus death rate than New York City. In August, the Biden administration provided billions of dollars to rural communities through the American Rescue Plan — separate from the $20 million — to address virus concerns, including by expanding telehealth, and to help rebuild crumbling health care infrastructure. Other investments in rural health during the pandemic have included improving training for clinicians working at rural Veterans Affairs hospitals; more than $8 billion to help hospitals and doctors’ offices make up for lost revenues and increased expenses during that time; and $350 million to rural communities for food, medical supplies and vaccines. Even though telehealth has become more mainstream during the pandemic, challenges persist. It remains inaccessible in areas without internet or proper speeds. And there is still a lot of uncertainty about how using telemedicine more would affect insurers’ and hospitals’ bottom lines over time, not to mention patient outcomes. A large body of research supports the use of telehealth for communication and counselling, and for monitoring patients with chronic conditions, but more evidence is needed on its broader use. The University of Mississippi Medical Center will receive more than $3.5 million of the $20 million from the Health Resources and Services Administration, through two grant programs to improve health care in rural, medically underserved areas of the state that have widespread chronic disease and high poverty rates. The coronavirus pandemic increased not only the need for telehealth but also the amount that doctors and nurses get paid to use it. Early in the pandemic, Congress and the Trump administration expanded Medicare’s coverage of telehealth services for the duration of the public health emergency, although it is unclear whether the coverage will continue indefinitely. “There is now momentum; telehealth is now considered part of the mainstream of health care delivery,” said Dr. Saurabh Chandra, the chief telehealth officer at the Center for Telehealth at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. “There were lots of loosening of regulations that allowed us to expand telehealth and do telehealth in a very short period of time.” Telehealth is not just for rural areas, Chandra said. It can be used in schools and correctional facilities, as well as in patients’ homes, nursing homes, doctors’ offices and hospitals. Among other things, telehealth technology has been crucial to stabilizing rural COVID-19 patients as they await transfer, through a program commonly called “tele-ICU.” The University of Mississippi Medical Center plans to start such a program — essentially a two-way video system that connects critically ill patients in rural hospital ICU beds with teams of doctors and nurses who specialize in caring for patients from a distance. Angela Turner-Ford, a Democratic state senator in Mississippi who is the chairwoman of the state’s legislative Black caucus, said that increasing access to telehealth would also help medical providers combat misinformation that had been circulating among the state’s Black residents and creating high vaccine hesitancy. If it were easier to connect with doctors regularly, many of the hesitant might change their minds, she said. “They are left to themselves and what someone may have told them that may not be reliable information,” Turner-Ford said. “If you don’t have that existing relationship with a practitioner, someone in that instance may have known who to call just to have a simple conversation.” Jennifer Yturriondobeitia, CEO of Cornerstone Whole Healthcare Organization, a nonprofit in Boise, Idaho, focused on improving rural health care, said the $350,000 it received will go toward telehealth for mental and substance abuse disorders. Idaho lacks treatment for these conditions, especially in rural areas, she said. Yturriondobeitia said her group had used telehealth in Idaho since 2015. Back then, patients drove to doctors’ offices to connect with distant specialized providers. Now the focus is on connecting patients with those providers from their own homes. In Oregon, the funding will help residents primarily in the Columbia River Gorge region. Five of the six counties that will benefit are in the vast rural area where mountain ranges form the boundary between Oregon and Washington. Poverty levels are high, and for some, a visit to the doctor can be an hour’s drive away. Nearly one-third of the population is Hispanic. “They don’t have enough primary care doctors, they don’t have enough mental health professionals, they don’t have enough anybody there,” said Dr. Nancy Elder, director of the Oregon Rural Practice-Based Research Network, which received $475,000. Chronic diabetes is also pervasive in the region. Elder said one way she believed the quality of care could be improved was by increasing the skills of the doctors and nurses already based there. The region’s award will be used for Project ECHO, a program that allows rural primary care clinicians to learn from specialists by video. The meetings begin with an educational presentation, followed by a discussion of real-life clinical obstacles the providers are facing. “They get access to expertise that they wouldn’t have,” said Maggie McLain McDonnell, director of the Oregon ECHO Network and Health Education Initiatives, “but they also get support so that they feel less alone in the challenges that they’re facing treating these patients.”

Biden administration seeks to expand telehealth in rural America

A U.S senator involved in cyber security reveals that the unprecedented cyber attack on U.S government agency reported this month may have started earlier then last spring. Mark Warner said that the extensive investigation of hack were active but U.S government does not have any big evidence.

U.S senator revelation on Cyber attack on U.S government

The United States will open a "virtual" diplomatic post in Western Sahara ahead of a consulate, the State Department said Thursday, after recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory earlier this month.

Announcement of the virtual presence follows US President Donald Trump's surprise declaration in early December supporting Morocco's control of the desert territory, which is claimed by the Algerian-backed pro-independence Polisario Front rebels.

The move was part of a larger agreement revealed by Trump, under which Morocco became the latest Arab state to recognize Israel.

Jared Kushner, son-in-law and advisor to the US president, took his seat Tuesday alongside an Israeli delegation on the first Israel-Morocco direct commercial flight, before signing a declaration which provides for the opening of a US consulate in the Western Sahara port city of Dakhla.

"Pleased to announce the beginning of the process to establish a US consulate in Western Sahara," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo tweeted Thursday.

"Effective immediately, we are inaugurating a virtual presence post for Western Sahara," he added in a statement, specifying that the post would be "followed soon by a fully functioning consulate."

"This virtual presence post will be managed by the US Embassy in Rabat" with a focus on promoting economic and social development, Pompeo said, without providing a timetable for the consulate.

He added that the United States "will continue to support political negotiations to resolve the issues between Morocco and the Polisario."

The United States will open a "virtual" diplomatic post in Western Sahara ahead of a consulate, the State Department said Thursday, after recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory earlier this month.

The United States will open a "virtual" diplomatic post in Western Sahara ahead of a consulate, the State Department said Thursday, after recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory earlier this month. Announcement of the virtual presence follows US President Donald Trump's surprise declaration in early December supporting Morocco's control of the desert territory, which is claimed by the Algerian-backed pro-independence Polisario Front rebels. The move was part of a larger agreement revealed by Trump, under which Morocco became the latest Arab state to recognize Israel. Jared Kushner, son-in-law and advisor to the US president, took his seat Tuesday alongside an Israeli delegation on the first Israel-Morocco direct commercial flight, before signing a declaration which provides for the opening of a US consulate in the Western Sahara port city of Dakhla. "Pleased to announce the beginning of the process to establish a US consulate in Western Sahara," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo tweeted Thursday. "Effective immediately, we are inaugurating a virtual presence post for Western Sahara," he added in a statement, specifying that the post would be "followed soon by a fully functioning consulate." "This virtual presence post will be managed by the US Embassy in Rabat" with a focus on promoting economic and social development, Pompeo said, without providing a timetable for the consulate. He added that the United States "will continue to support political negotiations to resolve the issues between Morocco and the Polisario."

US opens ‘virtual’ presence in Western Sahara ahead of the consulate

The mysterious head injuries suffered by US diplomats in China and Cuba that had been described as "sonic attacks" might have happened due to microwave energy.

A report published Saturday by the National Academy of Sciences said, "Overall, directed pulsed RF (radio frequency) energy, especially in those with the distinct early manifestations, appears to be the most plausible mechanism in explaining these cases among those that the committee considered."

A 19-person committee of medical and scientific experts produced the report at the request of the US State Department.

The government study considered possible incidents of persistent postural-perceptual dizziness as a possible secondary issue in some of those affected a contributing factor.

The report said that it considered chemical exposures, infectious diseases and psychological issues as potential causes or aggravating factors of the injuries, but the overall analysis appeared to show they were not the likely cause.

It said such action could be used for nefarious purposes, without concluding that the use of directed microwave energy in these instances was done deliberately.

"The mere consideration of such a scenario raises grave concerns about a world with disinhibited malevolent actors and new tools for causing harm to others, as if the US government does not have its hands full already with naturally occurring threats," the report said.

Most of the documented attacks came in 2016 and 2017, though there were a handful of reported incidents after that as well.

Cuban officials have consistently denied their government had any involvement with the diplomats' health problems and have said mass hysteria is the most likely cause.

(with inputs)

The mysterious head injuries suffered by US diplomats in China and Cuba that had been described as "sonic attacks" might have happened due to microwave energy. A report published Saturday by the National Academy of Sciences said, "Overall, directed pulsed RF (radio frequency) energy, especially in those with the distinct early manifestations, appears to be the most plausible mechanism in explaining these cases among those that the committee considered.

The mysterious head injuries suffered by US diplomats in China and Cuba that had been described as "sonic attacks" might have happened due to microwave energy. A report published Saturday by the National Academy of Sciences said, "Overall, directed pulsed RF (radio frequency) energy, especially in those with the distinct early manifestations, appears to be the most plausible mechanism in explaining these cases among those that the committee considered." A 19-person committee of medical and scientific experts produced the report at the request of the US State Department. The government study considered possible incidents of persistent postural-perceptual dizziness as a possible secondary issue in some of those affected a contributing factor. The report said that it considered chemical exposures, infectious diseases and psychological issues as potential causes or aggravating factors of the injuries, but the overall analysis appeared to show they were not the likely cause. It said such action could be used for nefarious purposes, without concluding that the use of directed microwave energy in these instances was done deliberately. "The mere consideration of such a scenario raises grave concerns about a world with disinhibited malevolent actors and new tools for causing harm to others, as if the US government does not have its hands full already with naturally occurring threats," the report said. Most of the documented attacks came in 2016 and 2017, though there were a handful of reported incidents after that as well. Cuban officials have consistently denied their government had any involvement with the diplomats' health problems and have said mass hysteria is the most likely cause. (with inputs)

Microwave energy caused US diplomats in China, Cuba head injuries: Govt study

The US government has for the first time seized vessels allegedly loaded with Iranian fuel in violation of sanctions imposed by the Trump administration. Watch report.

1st Iranian fuel cargo confiscated by US: Fuel supply line defies US sanctions

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