On Saturday’s episode of MSNBC’s Velshi, Tennessee State Representative Justin Jones condemned the common response of offering “thoughts and prayers” after mass shootings, calling it “a form of theological malpractice.” A former minister, Jones argued that prayer without legislative action is morally irresponsible when lawmakers have the power to prevent violence.
Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) called for a national ban on assault weapons during an appearance Sunday on CNN’s State of the Union, citing a recent school shooting in Minnesota as evidence of urgent need for reform. The Democrat lawmaker argued that taking firearms off the streets is essential to preventing further mass tragedies.
When Congress returns from its Labor Day recess, it will immediately face high-stakes decisions on Washington, D.C.’s future. At the center is President Donald Trump’s declaration of a state of emergency in the district on August 11—dubbed “Liberation Day”—which launched a sweeping law enforcement surge that has produced dramatic reductions in violent crime.
Starting September 1, Texas will implement some of the toughest anti-human trafficking laws in the nation. Under new legislation signed by Governor Greg Abbott earlier this month, convicted traffickers could face up to 99 years in prison, with no possibility of parole in certain cases.
The Norwegian government announced Sunday it will purchase a fleet of British-made warships to strengthen its navy amid growing regional security concerns. The move marks a significant defense investment by the NATO member as tensions escalate in Europe following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
