Month: April 2026

District Judge Richard Leon says construction has to stop until Congress provides statutory authorisation.

A judge has ruled that US President Donald Trump cannot proceed with his planned $400m ballroom on the site of the White House’s demolished East Wing without approval from Congress.

District Judge Richard Leon on Tuesday granted a request for a preliminary injunction filed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which sued after alleging Trump had exceeded his authority by razing the historic East Wing and launching construction on the new building.

“I have concluded that the National Trust is likely to succeed on the merits because no statute comes close to giving the President the authority he claims to have,” Leon, an appointee of former Republican President George W Bush, wrote in the ruling.

“The President of the United States is the steward of the White House for future generations of First Families. He is not, however, the owner!” he said. “Unless and until Congress blesses this project through statutory authorization, construction has to stop!”

Leon said the order does not affect “construction necessary to ensure the safety and security of the White House”.

His ruling keeps the 90,000 square-foot (8,360 square-metre) ballroom project on hold while the lawsuit continues.

The judge said he was pausing his order for 14 days to allow the ⁠Trump administration to appeal. Hours later, the Justice Department filed an appeal at the Washington, DC-based US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the National Trust, welcomed Leon’s ruling.

“This is a win for the American people on a project that forever impacts one of the most beloved and iconic places in our nation,” Quillen said in a statement.

In a social media post, Trump called the National Trust a group of left-wing “lunatics” and said his ballroom is “under budget, ahead of schedule, being built at no cost to the Taxpayer, and will be the finest Building of its kind anywhere in the World”.

The Republican has championed the ballroom as a defining addition to the White House and a lasting symbol of his presidency.

An F-35 crashed in the Nevada Test and Training Range in Southern Nevada. The pilot ejected and is reportedly safe after sustaining only minor injuries.

According to KSNV News 3, “The U.S. military is searching for a pilot who had to eject from an aircraft over Southern Nevada on Tuesday, sources tell News 3… The aircraft reported trouble maneuvering around noon, according to sources.” The outlet subsequently reported that the pilot was found in good condition.

TWZ has reached out to Creech AFB and Nellis AFB for more information. We will update this post as we find out more.

UPDATE: 5:24pm EST—

We have now gotten a statement from the 57th Wing at Nellis AFB (the range complex falls under the installation’s command). We now know the F-35 that was lost was based out of Nellis. F-35s are major tenants of the base, for weapons tests and tactics development tasks and aggressor duties, and visiting F-35s frequent the base for training and exercises. The statement reads:

An F-35 from Nellis AFB crashed north of Las Vegas today. The incident occurred approximately 25 miles northeast of Indian Springs, Nevada, within the controlled airspace and restricted federal property of the Nevada Test & Training Range.

Emergency responders are on-scene and there is no impact to populated areas. The pilot is safe and being treated for minor injuries. The safety of our personnel and the community remain our top priority.

We will provide additional information as it becomes available.

Contact the author: Tyler@twz.com

HOLLYWOOD actress Vanessa Hudgens’ sister was keen to make a bold impression with her latest selfie.

The influencer sister of Vanessa, Stella, left little to the imagination as she showed off her very full bust in a lacy bodysuit.

Stella’s plunging number featured a translucent design that made sure all eyes were on her.

The glam star’s hips were also on show thanks to the bodysuit number which showed off her snatched waistline.

Stella struck a variety of poses for her Instagram upload which included her appearing to playfully writhe around her seat as she enjoyed a few cocktails at a bar.

In one shot, she manovered her arms to squeeze her chest as well as flashing a model-like post with her hand behind her head in another.

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Stella’s fans were quick to react to the jaw-dropping selfies.

One fan wrote: “Baddest ever.”

Another added: “My heart just stopped.”

A third went on to state: “Hot as hell.”

Before a fourth wrote: “Them hips don’t lieeeee babyyyy.”

Stella is best known for her online career as a social media influencer as well as being a regular live-streamer.

She has broadcast her life on Twitch since 2022 as well as hosting her own podcast, That’s Crazy, as she aims to follow in her sister’s famous footsteps.

Stella has also attempted to carve out an acting career with minor appearances in a number of films since 2016.

Vanessa is best known for her roles in the High School Musical franchise.

She has since held a number of high-profile acting roles as well as a successful music career.

ATLANTA — Over the past three decades, the collection of DNA from convicted criminals has become standard in the U.S. justice system, and many states now also swab people arrested for serious crimes.

Legislation awaiting a final vote in Georgia would take that a step further by collecting DNA from people charged with less serious misdemeanors — but only if federal immigration authorities want them detained. That could include immigrants not ultimately deported.

If enacted, Georgia’s measure would make it the third state to single out immigrants believed to be in the U.S. illegally for the collection of genetic material that wouldn’t be taken from others. Florida passed a similar law in 2023. And Oklahoma in 2009 authorized DNA collection from immigrants in the U.S. illegally, though it remains subject to funding.

The new legislation comes as President Trump’s administration seeks to expand its use of DNA and biometrics in immigration enforcement as it carries out a plan to deport millions of people from the U.S.

“It is one example of something we are seeing across the landscape, which is government actors at all levels vacuuming up DNA in all available contexts,” said Stevie Glaberson, director of research and advocacy at the Center on Privacy and Technology at Georgetown University law school.

Immigrant DNA collection has grown in recent years

The FBI launched the National DNA Index System in 1998 to compile DNA samples submitted by federal, state and local authorities. It’s grown in size and scope and now contains more than 26 million DNA profiles, many from people convicted of crimes.

A federal law enacted 20 years ago allowed the attorney general to expand DNA collection to people arrested and to noncitizens detained under federal authority. But because of exceptions authorized by federal officials, few immigrants had their DNA collected.

That changed in 2020, during Trump’s first term, when a new Department of Justice rule took away much of that discretion. Over the next five years, the Department of Homeland Security added the DNA profiles of more than 2.6 million detainees to the national database, according to an analysis by the Center on Privacy and Technology.

The department did not answer questions from the Associated Press about the percentage of detained immigrants whose DNA has been collected during Trump’s second term.

But the department is looking to expand its authority. A proposed rule would allow it to collect DNA, including from U.S. citizens, to determine family relationships in immigrant benefit cases.

States don’t typically collect DNA for misdemeanor arrests

Though many states collect DNA from people arrested for felonies, just 10 states collect it from people arrested for certain misdemeanors, such as sex offenses, and none collect it for all misdemeanor arrests, according to an AP analysis of data compiled by the Boise State University Department of Criminal Justice.

But under the Florida and Oklahoma laws, any arrest could lead to DNA collection for immigrants subject to federal detainer requests. Officials in the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation did not respond to questions about whether those laws are being used.

The Georgia legislation would require DNA collection from immigrants facing any misdemeanor or felony charges if U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has issued a detainer request but has not picked up the person within 48 hours.

Georgia state Sen. Tim Bearden, a Republican sponsoring the bill, described the measure as a means of solving crimes.

“Technology is changing quickly, and DNA is one of those things that help us tremendously when we’re trying to make sure to bring justice to victims in this state and across this country,” Bearden said at a March hearing.

The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement that “partnerships with law enforcement are critical to having the resources we need to arrest criminal illegal aliens across the country.”

Could a broken tail light lead to a DNA swab?

A 2024 Georgia law mandates that local law enforcement cooperate with federal authorities to identify and detain immigrants in the U.S. illegally, or else lose state funding. This year’s legislation would build upon that.

Some legal experts say it could result in DNA collections from immigrants taken into custody for minor violations. Traffic offenses that are penalized as civil violations in some states are considered misdemeanors in Georgia, making them subject to the new law, said Mazie Lynn Guertin, executive director and policy advocate with the Georgia Assn. of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

“We don’t think that swabbing a person who’s committed a traffic violation is a boon for public safety,” Guertin said. “The correlation between a broken tail light and a crime that’s solvable with DNA is pretty attenuated in most cases.”

People subject to federal immigration detainer requests aren’t necessarily undocumented or deportable, because they may later prove their legal presence, said Kyle Gomez-Leineweber, director of policy for Common Cause Georgia. But such people could have their DNA collected under the Georgia legislation.

“What this really does is it creates a two-tiered system where some of the DNA would be collected based off of the perception of an individual’s immigration status,” said Gomez-Leineweber.

Legal experts raise questions about constitutional rights

The U.S. Supreme Court in 2013 upheld a Maryland law allowing DNA to be collected from people charged — but not yet convicted — of certain serious crimes. That law allows DNA to be added to a database after it’s determined there is probable cause to detain someone, provided it’s deleted if the person is not ultimately convicted.

The Maryland case often is cited as justification for an expansion of DNA collection. But some immigrant advocates question whether civil immigration detainers meet the probable cause threshold to make DNA collection acceptable under the U.S. Constitution’s Fourth Amendment protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.

“There doesn’t appear to be any kind of meaningful justification for states to step in to require the collection of DNA — of genetic material — from noncitizens in their custody who have merely been accused of a crime, even a low-level crime,” said Jorge Loweree, managing director of the American Immigration Council. “It seems like this is just an effort to increase the surveillance of noncitizens.”

Kramon and Lieb write for the Associated Press. Lieb reported from Jefferson City, Mo.

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has condemned anti-Muslim chants which were heard during the first half of Spain’s 0-0 draw with Egypt in Barcelona on Tuesday.

At half-time, a message warning fans against xenophobic remarks and singing was displayed on the screen at the RCDE Stadium with the stadium announcer also reading out a similar request.

The message was then repeated early in the second half, leading to whistles from some sections of the crowd.

“The RFEF stands against racism in football and condemns any act of violence inside stadiums,” they posted on social media.

The behaviour was also condemned by Spain coach Luis de la Fuente.

“It’s intolerable,” he said. “Violent people use football to carve out a space for themselves.

“They must be removed from society, identified, and kept as far away as possible.”

Tuesday’s game was due to be played in Qatar but was moved to the home of La Liga side Espanyol due to the war in the Middle East.

De la Fuente made 10 changes from Friday’s 3-0 friendly win over Serbia with Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal the only player to keep his place while Egypt were without injured Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah.

The result also saw Spain, one of the co-hosts of the next World Cup in 2030, lose their top place in the world rankings.

If you want to experience the Italian charm, cuisine and history without facing major crowds, swap Rome for a hidden gem on the southeastern heel of the country.

Rome is one of the most popular travel destinations on Earth, thanks to its history, architecture, weather and style.

But for those of us who are tired of navigating hordes of tourists to catch a glimpse of the Fontana di Trevi or queuing up for the best restaurants, there is an alternative.

The southeastern tip of Italy is home to the comune of Lecce, rich in baroque architecture and with the same historical charm that draws millions to the Capital.

Nicknamed the ‘Florence of the South’ for its characteristic style, Lecce has a rich history that is still tangible today in the form of places such as the Church of the Holy Cross (Chiesa di Santa Croce), built in 1353 and completed in 1695, and the Church of Saints Niccolo’ and Cataldo, initially built in 1180.

You’ll also find convents, the Column of St. Oronzo – built to mark the end of the plague – a major Roman-era amphitheatre, three archaeological museums, and Lecce’s own Arc de Triomphe (Arco di Trionfo), said to stand over St. Giusto’s tomb.

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You’ll also find an imposing castle – Il Castello di Carlo V – in which tourists can enjoy cultural tours and seasonal events, originally built by Charles V in the 1500s.

If you like to experience a city by strolling around it, you’re spoiled for choice of where to go in Lecce. The city centre is full of sandstone-coloured grand piazzas, – the biggest one is Piazza del Duomo – ruins and ornate baroque buildings that sit in preserved Roman roads.

Visitors also enjoy the southern Italian tradition of the evening passeggiata, when families stroll at dusk to mark the end of the workday.

It is a city rooted in its artisanal culture, with olive oil and wine being Lecce’s main exports. That reflects in the local food and produce, making local eats accessible and fresh. For a truly authentic taste of Lecce, visit Mercato di Piazza Libertini, the lively central market.

You can also enjoy wine tours, cooking classes, and sample peppery olive oil, known for converting doubters into enthusiasts.

Other delicacies include pasticciotto – pastries filled with custard, ricotta, or, in Lecce, vanilla. You’ll easily find them at the multiple bakeries spread across the centre, with reviewers highlighting Pasticceria Natale and Caffè Alvino.

And if you manage to explore the entire place and still have time to spare, guides recommend taking a bus to the nearby beaches of San Cataldo, Porto Cesareo or Punta Prosciutto, reachable in as little as 40 minutes.

To enjoy optimal weather in Lecce, avoid June, July and August – as temperatures can easily go above 40C – but don’t worry about any other month, as temperatures range from 14C to 28C year-round. Avoiding grey skies is easy, as it doesn’t usually rain more than a week per month, but you’ll have the best luck in May, September, and October.

When looking for a place to stay, many like to enjoy Lecce while dwelling in scenic villas that offer a luxurious experience for a slightly higher price – from around £415 a night. If you’re budgeting, you can still have a great experience at local hotels for around £60 per night.

Overall, Lecce is more affordable than Italy’s major destinations but offers the same rich atmosphere, culture, and cuisine.

To reach Lecce, fly from London to Brindisi Airport, a journey of about three hours. From Brindisi, Lecce is approximately 30 minutes away by straightforward bus or car rides that can be booked in advance.

Once you get to the city, you’ll be able to comfortably reach most sites on foot, but public buses are available to help tourists navigate as well as reach neighbouring towns.

Return flights between London Stansted and Brindisi can cost as little as £30 per person during the milder seasons. If flying from London City Airport or Gatwick, fares typically start at £200.

If you’re already planning a trip to Italy, Lecce is a good day-trip option, as frequent trains connect Lecce with major Italian cities, making access easy.

March 31 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s ruling and opposition parties agreed Tuesday to pass a package of economic measures, including a currency stabilization bill, as the won weakened sharply amid prolonged conflict in the Middle East.

The legislation was approved during a plenary session alongside more than 60 bills aimed at stabilizing the economy and supporting livelihoods.

The currency measure includes tax incentives designed to encourage domestic investment by individuals who have invested in overseas markets, often referred to in South Korea as retail investors in foreign stocks. Officials said the goal is to increase demand for the Korean won and reduce volatility in foreign exchange markets.

The won traded at 1,530.1 per U.S. dollar on Tuesday, well above the psychologically significant 1,500 level, adding to inflationary pressure.

Floor leader Han Byung-do said the worsening Middle East crisis had begun to affect everyday life, emphasizing the need to contain exchange rate volatility and shield the economy from external shocks.

Lawmakers also approved additional economic legislation tied to the crisis. These include a measure to support corporate restructuring, allowing companies to streamline mergers and spin-offs and receive tax benefits as they respond to industrial challenges and shift into new sectors.

Other bills passed include revisions to trade-related laws aimed at helping businesses adapt to changes in the global trade environment.

Separately, lawmakers voted to fill several vacant leadership posts in National Assembly committees. The Democratic Party nominated Rep. Seo Young-kyo as chair of the Legislation and Judiciary Committee, along with Rep. Kwon Chil-seung and Rep. So Byung-hoon for other committee leadership roles. Their terms will run through May.

The votes were conducted by secret ballot and passed with support from the Democratic Party, while the People Power Party is believed to have opposed the selections.

The People Power Party had argued that the judiciary committee chair should be held by the opposition to ensure checks and balances, noting that the Democratic Party already holds the position of National Assembly speaker.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260401010009707

In her small shop on Merritt Island, racks of orange, blue and black T-shirts depict hand drawn rockets, mission patches and moonscapes, ready for the crowds who arrive on regular launch days. But this launch is different, she tells us. “We’ve wanted to go back to the Moon since the ’70s. People are excited. People are beyond excited,” she said.

Long Covid is when the symptoms of Covid-19 – extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain, aching muscles and brain fog – last longer than 12 weeks

Hermione Norris has revealed she has suffered from long Covid, which left her concerned about her ability to take on physical challenges. The Cold Feet star, 59, said she is now much better but the change to her body has been a “shock”.

Norris is one of seven celebrities who embarked on a pilgrimage through north-east England to one of Britain’s most important pilgrimage sites, Lindisfarne, for new BBC series Pilgrimage: The Road To Holy Island.

She was joined by stars including Ashley Banjo, Patsy Kensit and Tasha Ghouri for the programme but said she had concerns about her health before setting off.

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She told Prima magazine : “I’m not great at extreme discomfort. I had long Covid a few years ago, so I was worried about my physical fitness and the demands of walking so much every day, plus carrying the backpack. But we did a couple of massive walks and I was fine. I was pleasantly surprised.”

She added: “Having been ill [with long Covid], my focus is on being well and healthy. It’s about exercising, not to make me look good but to keep me strong. I stretch a lot, and I’ve really got to start lifting weights.

“I also use an infrared sauna for my autoimmune condition. I get really stiff joints. I’m so much better after the long Covid, but I feel different, physiologically. It gave me a shock, as I’ve always been quite fit and strong.”

Long Covid is when the symptoms of Covid-19 last longer than 12 weeks, according to the NHS website. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain, aching muscles and brain fog.

Norris, best known for her role as Karen Marsden in cult 90s drama Cold Feet, said she has also noticed significant changes since going through the menopause, telling the magazine: “Menopause talk is everywhere now. But the alchemy that happens is unquestionable. The masks drop.

“I feel like a different person from who I was in my 40s – mentally and physically – in a good way. Now I enjoy simple things. My morning coffee, a walk, my doggies, beautiful skies. The joy is in the day-to-day of living, not the big things.”

Read the full interview in the May issue of Prima , on sale now