Trump admin to pay $5 million to Capitol rioter Ashli Babbitt’s family

** Former President Trump announced that a Space Force general will oversee the "Golden Dome" missile defense project, an initiative aimed at protecting the US from long-range strikes. However, funding for the project—tucked into a tax bill—is facing pushback, even from some Republicans. Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, once seen as a rising GOP star, is struggling to maintain his political momentum after dropping out of the presidential race.

What This Mean: ** This story highlights the ongoing debate over national security spending and the political friction within the Republican Party. Trump’s missile defense plan is ambitious, but resistance from his own party shows it’s far from a done deal. The mention of DeSantis’ struggles adds a layer of GOP infighting, making this a snapshot of the party’s current tensions—both over policy and leadership.

The University of Maryland is adding a splash of whimsy to graduation this year—Kermit the Frog will take the stage to give the commencement speech, marking his first college address in almost three decades. Dubbed "Kermencement," the event promises a mix of nostalgia and lighthearted inspiration for grads.

What This Mean: Commencement speeches usually feature politicians or CEOs, so having a beloved cultural icon like Kermit is a fun twist. It’s a reminder that big milestones don’t always have to be serious—sometimes, a little Muppet magic can make them even more memorable. Plus, it’s a clever way to get people talking about the university.

** A former Jan. 6 defendant, Taylor Taranto—a military veteran who was previously pardoned by Trump—has been convicted on gun charges after being arrested near Barack Obama’s home. He was among the roughly 1,500 Capitol riot defendants who received pardons, but this latest conviction shows legal troubles aren’t over for some of them.

What This Mean: ** This isn’t just another Jan. 6 follow-up—it’s a reminder that even with high-profile pardons, some defendants continue to face consequences for other actions. The fact that Taranto was arrested near Obama’s home adds a layer of concern about lingering threats tied to political violence. It’s a story about accountability, loopholes, and how the fallout from that day is still unfolding.

** The suspect behind the Palm Springs fertility clinic bombing, Guy Edward Bartkus, had a troubled past marked by family conflicts and an obsession with explosives. Investigators are piecing together how these factors may have led to the violent attack last weekend.

What This Mean: ** This isn't just another crime story—it's a disturbing look at how personal turmoil and dangerous fixations can escalate into real-world violence. Understanding Bartkus's background could shed light on warning signs that were missed, or systemic gaps in preventing such acts. For a community recovering from the shock of a bombing, it’s a grim but necessary conversation.

** Olympic gold medalist wrestler Kyle Snyder, once celebrated for his athletic triumphs, has taken a plea deal in a surprising legal twist. Instead of facing charges tied to a prostitution sting, he admitted to disorderly conduct—a far less serious offense. The case shifts the spotlight from his past glory to a more complicated chapter of personal struggles.

What This Mean: ** Snyder’s story isn’t just about a fallen hero—it’s a reminder of how quickly public perception can change. For fans, it’s jarring to see an athlete who once stood atop the podium now grappling with legal troubles. Beyond the headlines, it raises questions about the pressures and pitfalls that come with fame, even for those who seem untouchable in their prime.