President Donald Trump has launched a blistering attack on Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, criticizing him as “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy” in a series of posts on Truth Social. The confrontation followed the pope’s condemnation of the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran, which he described as driven by a “delusion of omnipotence.” Trump’s rebuke included an AI-generated image depicting himself in Christ-like robes, laying hands on a sick man with divine light emanating from his fingers. The image, widely condemned as blasphemous by religious leaders and conservative figures, was later deleted. Trump claimed he believed the image portrayed him as a doctor. Vatican officials responded by calling the attack a “declaration of impotence,” asserting that Trump cannot contain a moral voice he cannot dominate. The feud has drawn concern from Catholic leaders, including a prominent bishop on Trump’s Religious Liberty Commission, who called for an apology. [NYT US], [The Guardian US], [BBC US & Canada], [CNN Lite]
The U.S. military has begun enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports following the collapse of direct peace talks in Pakistan. President Trump ordered the blockade to pressure Tehran into surrendering its nuclear program, declaring, “We will begin blockading the strait of Hormuz.” The move, which targets all vessels entering or exiting Iranian ports, has raised oil prices to over $100 a barrel and heightened fears of a prolonged global energy crisis. Iran has vowed to retaliate against any military vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the blockade, U.S. officials remain open to a second round of negotiations, with sources indicating that Iran has expressed interest in making a deal. However, a fundamental disagreement persists over the duration of a proposed suspension of Iran’s nuclear activities. [NYT US], [The Guardian US], [CNN Lite], [NPR Text]
Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell has announced his resignation from Congress following explosive allegations of sexual assault and misconduct. The announcement came after CNN and the San Francisco Chronicle reported that a former staffer accused him of sexual assault after a night of drinking. Three other women alleged additional misconduct, including sending unsolicited nude photos. Swalwell, who had already suspended his campaign for California governor, stated that while he denies the serious allegations, he could not fulfill his duties while distracted. His resignation follows a House Ethics Committee inquiry and mounting pressure from both parties, including calls for expulsion. Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales also announced his resignation amid separate misconduct allegations. [CNN Lite], [NPR Text], [BBC US & Canada]
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 class of inductees, including Phil Collins, Oasis, Sade, Iron Maiden, and Wu-Tang Clan. Collins, previously inducted as a member of Genesis, is recognized for his solo career that dominated 1980s pop-rock. Oasis, the British rock band, and Sade, the R&B legend, are among the performers honored. The induction ceremony will be held on November 14 in Los Angeles and broadcast on ABC and Disney+. [NPR Text], [CNN Lite]
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) has launched a new nonstop flight to Dublin, Ireland, marking a significant expansion of its international connectivity. The inaugural flight arrived on Monday, offering passengers direct access to Europe and strengthening economic and cultural ties between North Carolina and Ireland. The route is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and educational exchanges. [WRAL Raleigh], [The News & Observer]
A Vance County jail supervisor has resigned after being accused of raping an inmate. The resignation follows the filing of criminal charges, which have sparked renewed scrutiny of oversight and accountability within the county’s correctional system. The case is under investigation, and the accused supervisor is expected to face trial. [WRAL Raleigh]
Prosecutors across North Carolina are warning that a severe backlog in autopsies is delaying justice in criminal cases. The state’s medical examiner system is overwhelmed, with some families waiting months for autopsy results. The delays are impacting murder investigations, drug-related deaths, and cases involving child fatalities. State officials acknowledge the crisis and are exploring solutions, including hiring additional forensic pathologists and investing in lab infrastructure. [WRAL Raleigh]
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill hosted its inaugural AI for Public Good conference, bringing together researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore ethical applications of artificial intelligence in government, healthcare, and education. The event highlighted North Carolina’s growing role in the AI sector and featured discussions on bias mitigation, data privacy, and public trust. The conference coincided with the North Carolina Treasurer’s Office announcing it is expanding its use of AI tools across state financial operations following a successful pilot program. [WRAL Raleigh], [Carolina Journal]
Wake County school leaders are evaluating potential calendar adjustments at six schools experiencing declining enrollment. The changes could include shifting to a year-round schedule or consolidating programs to optimize resource allocation. The district is also grappling with broader demographic shifts, as several other North Carolina school systems, including Chapel Hill-Carrboro, have recently cut staff due to falling student numbers. [WRAL Raleigh], [WUNC Raleigh (NPR)]
A central North Carolina farmer is bracing for what could be the region’s worst drought in decades. With rainfall significantly below average and reservoir levels dropping, agricultural producers are concerned about crop yields, livestock water supplies, and long-term soil health. State officials are monitoring the situation closely and may implement water restrictions if conditions worsen. [WRAL Raleigh]
A Durham elementary school has been awarded $10,000 to create a dedicated lactation room for nursing mothers, part of a statewide initiative to support working parents. The grant, funded by a nonprofit, was celebrated by teachers and parents who said it sends a powerful message of inclusion. “I feel seen as a working mom,” said one educator. The room will provide a private, hygienic space for pumping and storing breast milk. [WRAL Raleigh]
State lawmakers are moving forward with a proposed constitutional amendment that would require voter approval for any future increases in property tax rates. The measure, which has bipartisan support, is intended to limit local government spending and provide greater transparency. Critics argue it could restrict municipalities’ ability to fund essential services like schools and public safety. The amendment must be approved by voters in a future referendum. [WRAL Raleigh]
Samaritan’s Purse, a Boone-based humanitarian organization, has expanded its home rebuilding program for survivors of Hurricane Helene, adding 19 new locations across four states, including North Carolina. The initiative, which has already delivered dozens of homes, aims to provide permanent, storm-resistant housing for families displaced by the 2025 disaster. The expansion reflects ongoing recovery efforts in Western North Carolina, where communities continue to rebuild infrastructure and housing. [Carolina Journal]
The state has allocated $4 million in funding to repair and enhance parks in Western North Carolina damaged by Hurricane Helene. The money will support trail restoration, facility upgrades, and environmental conservation in areas heavily impacted by flooding and landslides. The investment is part of a broader effort to revitalize the region’s outdoor recreation economy, a key driver of tourism and local business. [WFAE Charlotte (NPR)]