Cool congress and Corpus Christi – readers’ best photographs

In a recent controversy, Shadow Chancellor Kemi Badenoch distanced herself from Robert Jenrick's comments that have been criticized as racist, particularly his remarks about racial distinctions in Handsworth. This situation highlights ongoing tensions within the Conservative Party regarding race and representation, and it raises important questions about accountability and the impact of such statements on public perception. As political leaders navigate these sensitive issues, the reactions and responses will be crucial in shaping the party's image and addressing concerns within the community.

The appointment of Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief of CBS News has sparked a wave of discontent among staff members, with many expressing feelings of disappointment and concern. Conversations with the Guardian revealed that six employees voiced their unease about Weiss's controversial background, highlighting a divide within the network. This situation is significant as it reflects broader tensions in media organizations regarding editorial direction and the impact of leadership choices on workplace morale.

CBS News staffers are expressing their discontent over the appointment of Bari Weiss as the new editor-in-chief, following the acquisition of her publication, the Free Press, by Paramount Skydance for $150 million. Conversations among employees reveal a mix of emotions, with many feeling that this change is 'utterly depressing.' This situation is significant as it highlights the internal struggles within a major news organization and raises questions about the direction of journalism under Weiss's leadership.

The UK's tax authorities, HMRC, are currently investigating the finances of George Cottrell, a prominent ally of Nigel Farage and supporter of Reform UK. This examination is focused on Cottrell's income from his business ventures and his tax residency status. The scrutiny comes amid broader discussions about financial transparency and accountability among political figures, making it a significant development in the ongoing dialogue about wealth and taxation in the UK.

Concerns have emerged from neighbors of Jihad al-Shamie, the Manchester synagogue attacker, who reported to police their worries about his radicalization and attempts to preach the Qur'an to local children. This revelation raises serious questions about the effectiveness of monitoring potential threats and the community's role in reporting suspicious behavior. It highlights the need for better communication between law enforcement and the public to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.

Reuters is celebrating 40 years of impactful photojournalism with the release of a new book titled 'In the Moment.' This collection showcases over 14 million photographs that have shaped our understanding of the world. The book not only highlights the artistry behind these images but also emphasizes the importance of visual storytelling in capturing pivotal moments in history. It's a significant reminder of how photography can influence public perception and preserve memories.

In a heartfelt podcast, journalist Josh Halliday opens up about his father's battle with Huntington's disease, a rare and devastating condition that has affected their family for over a decade. Despite the challenges, Halliday shares a sense of hope as new treatments are being explored, highlighting the importance of awareness and support for those impacted by this illness. His story resonates with many, shedding light on the personal struggles behind such a diagnosis and the potential for breakthroughs in treatment.

China has issued a stern warning to the UK government, threatening retaliation if the UK targets its security apparatus under new foreign influence rules. This escalation in diplomatic tensions highlights the fragile state of UK-China relations and raises concerns about potential repercussions for both nations. As the UK considers these measures, the implications for international diplomacy and trade could be significant, making it a crucial moment for both countries.

Congress is facing a significant deadlock as the Senate prepares to meet again on Monday to discuss a bill aimed at reopening the government. However, the likelihood of the bill passing seems quite low, which raises concerns about the potential impact on government services and employees. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in bipartisan cooperation and the urgency for lawmakers to find a resolution.

Voting has officially opened for the 2025 Australian Bird of the Year, an event that not only celebrates avian diversity but also raises awareness about environmental issues. This annual contest encourages people to engage with nature and highlights the importance of bird conservation. By participating, voters contribute to a larger conversation about protecting wildlife and their habitats, making it a significant event for both bird lovers and environmental advocates.

Recent declassified CIA documents reveal that former President Biden allegedly pressured for a cover-up regarding Ukraine's stance on his business dealings. This revelation raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability in political dealings, especially in the context of international relations. The implications of such actions could undermine trust in leadership and highlight the ongoing issues of corruption that plague political systems.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has expressed strong opposition to the idea of handing over a suspect linked to the Nord Stream bombing to Berlin. Tusk's remarks highlight ongoing tensions regarding the controversial pipelines, which he believes should never have been constructed. This situation is significant as it underscores the complexities of international relations and security in Europe, particularly concerning energy infrastructure.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has taken a devastating toll, with reports indicating that one in ten Gazans has been killed or wounded over the past two years. This staggering statistic highlights the human cost of the war, particularly for children, as four out of every 100 have lost at least one parent. Understanding these numbers is crucial as they reflect the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and a resolution to the conflict.

Tonight, Arsenal faces OL Lyonnes in the Women’s Champions League, kicking off at 8pm BST. This match is crucial for Arsenal as they seek a strong performance in the revamped tournament. Fans can follow live updates and scores, making it an exciting event for supporters of women's football.

The White House's Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has stated that furloughed federal workers will not receive back pay after the ongoing government shutdown. This decision stems from an interpretation of a 2019 amendment to the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act, which OMB argues does not guarantee such compensation. This news is significant as it affects the financial stability of many federal employees during a time of uncertainty, raising concerns about the implications of prolonged government shutdowns on workers' livelihoods.

Hundreds of Muslim Australians gathered in Sydney and Melbourne to commemorate the two-year anniversary of the Gaza war, despite calls to refrain from holding such events on October 7. This gathering highlights the ongoing impact of the conflict on communities in Australia and reflects the broader discourse surrounding international events and their local implications.