Former US President Donald Trump is confronting the possibility of a politically damaging congressional vote regarding the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents, according to latest reports from Washington DC.
Political Pressure Mounts Over Epstein Files
Trump reportedly attempted to pressure two female Republican representatives to remove their names from a petition that would force a vote on releasing the Epstein files. These efforts ultimately failed, leaving the former president exposed on an issue that could potentially turn segments of his conservative base against him.
The situation has intensified following the latest release of emails written by Epstein before his death. One particular exchange between the late financier and an associate discussing "girls" and travel arrangements has drawn significant attention. The emails have also raised further questions about Prince Andrew's account of when he severed ties with the convicted sex offender and his denials regarding meetings with accuser Virginia Giuffre.
Multiple School Closures Over Asbestos Concerns
Meanwhile in Australia, multiple ACT schools have been forced to close following an alert about potential asbestos contamination in coloured sand products. The emergency shutdown affects several educational institutions across the Australian Capital Territory as authorities conduct urgent testing and risk assessments.
The asbestos scare comes amid other significant developments across Australia, including criticism of plans for the country's largest carbon capture project near Darwin, which opponents have labelled as creating a "dumping ground."
Other Key National Developments
In Victoria, the state government is preparing to crack down on violence against retail workers with proposed jail terms of up to five years for assault offences. The move follows growing concerns about safety in the retail sector.
The murder case of Molly Ticehurst continues to make headlines after her ex-boyfriend pleaded guilty to the 2024 killing that ignited a national campaign against domestic violence. The case has prompted widespread calls for stronger protections for victims of domestic abuse.
In sports news, concerns grow for Eli Katoa's playing future as his recovery continues from head impacts, seizures and brain surgery. The athlete's condition highlights ongoing concerns about head injuries in contact sports.
Internationally, Japan's Prime Minister has raised concerns about work-life balance after revealing he sleeps only two hours per night, sparking debates about leadership demands and personal wellbeing.
France has meanwhile paid tribute to the 130 people killed in the 2015 Islamic State attacks that targeted cafes, restaurants and the Bataclan concert hall. The commemorations mark one of the deadliest assaults on French soil since the Second World War.
In a lighter moment, wildlife photographer Charvet Drucker captured dramatic footage of a seal escaping a pod of killer whales by jumping onto her boat during a whale-watching trip near Seattle. "I'm definitely team orca, all day, every day," Drucker remarked. "But once that seal was on the boat, I kind of turned [into] team seal."
