Utah governor says the motive in Kirk shooting is not yet certain but the suspect was on the left

WASHINGTON (AP) — Utah Gov. Spencer Cox says investigators are not yet ready to discuss a motive in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk but that the 22-year-old who was arrested leaned to the left. Cox said Sunday that information comes from interviews with suspect Tyler Robinson's family and friends. The governor also said Robinson is not being cooperative in custody. Cox is a Republican who has called for partisans on both sides to tone down their rhetoric after the assassination. Cox also confirmed reports that Robinson was in a romantic relationship with his roommate but stressed the roommate knew nothing of the attack and has been cooperating with law enforcement.

After Kirk's killing a growing chorus of conservatives wants his critics ostracized or fired

BASKING RIDGE, New Jersey (AP) — Some conservatives are targeting people and organizations they believe disparaged Charlie Kirk after his death. They're pushing for firings and punishments, claiming these actions promote hate speech. This campaign has led to job losses for teachers, an Office Depot employee, and others. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said American Airlines grounded pilots who allegedly celebrated Kirk's assassination. Some conservatives see Kirk as a free speech champion and are using similar tactics they once criticized. This situation highlights the nation's political divisions and the role of social media in fueling outrage. Some Republicans blame traditional media for contributing to a toxic political climate.

Rubio is in Israel in wake of Qatar attack as Israeli strikes intensify in northern Gaza

JERUSALEM (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has arrived in Israel as it intensifies attacks on northern Gaza. Rubio's two-day visit aims to show support for Israel which faces isolation before a U.N. debate on a Palestinian state. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes this recognition. U.S. President Donald Trump is upset with Netanyahu for an Israeli strike in Doha without U.S. notification. Rubio and Trump met with Qatar’s prime minister on Friday to discuss the situation. The attack has hindered ceasefire efforts and hostage releases before the U.N. General Assembly session. Rubio arrived in Israel on Sunday.

Pope Leo XIV marvels at his 'huge learning curve' in an interview released on his 70th birthday

ROME (AP) — Pope Leo XIV has marveled at the “huge learning curve” he has taken on as pontiff and likened some aspects of the job to jumping “in on the deep end of the pool very quickly.” Those comments were contained in excerpts of an interview released Sunday on his 70th birthday. The interview was conducted by Vatican correspondent Elise Ann Allen for her forthcoming biography of Leo, whom she knew as a bishop in Peru. Excerpts were published Sunday on Allen’s Catholic news site Crux, and in the El Comercio daily of Peru.

King Charles III to deploy tiara diplomacy as UK prepares to welcome Trump for second state visit

LONDON (AP) — Windsor Castle staff are busy preparing for a grand event. King Charles III is set to welcome U.S. President Donald Trump for his second state visit this week. This visit includes a lavish banquet and a display of royal pomp and ceremony. The goal is to strengthen ties with Trump, whose policies have disrupted traditional trade and security relationships. State visits are a key tool for the British monarchy to wield "soft power." The visit will feature a ride in horse-drawn carriages and a state banquet, aiming to foster goodwill and address important issues like trade and security.

Trump administration renews push to fire Fed governor Lisa Cook ahead of key vote

President Donald Trump's administration has renewed its request to fire Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve’s board of governors. The administration filed a response to a federal appeals court on Sunday, arguing against Cook's legal reasons for staying on the job. This move comes ahead of the central bank’s vote on interest rates. Cook, the first Black woman to serve as a Fed governor, has been accused of mortgage fraud, which she denies. A federal judge ruled her removal illegal, but the administration appealed. This marks the first time a president has tried to fire a Fed governor.

Sugar Coke? Department of War? Where some of Trump's most jaw-dropping promises stand

WASHINGTON (AP) — Given just how much President Donald Trump talks in public, it can be hard to keep up with all of his promises — even his most outlandish ones. Once a pledge has been made, though, the president has a way of making notions that once seemed implausible inch toward appearing routine, the more repeats them. From putting cane sugar back in U.S. Coke to ending daylight saving time to creating the Department of War, some of Trump’s biggest jaw-dropping comments have gone nowhere, while others are working their way toward fruition.

Political leaders confront security concerns — and fear — after Kirk's assassination

MORRISTOWN, N.J. (AP) — Some political leaders are canceling public appearances after Charlie Kirk's killing. Others are relying on a large police presence to keep them safe. And still others insist that the assassination that shook the nation last week won’t have any impact on their plans. Elected officials at every level and in both parties are grappling with tough choices as they move deeper into an election season in which the prospect of further violence lingers. And as they weigh risks to their personal safety, Democrats and Republicans are being forced to confront their own feelings of grief, anger and fear.

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights expands at a critical moment in U.S. history

ATLANTA (AP) — The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is expanding at a critical moment in the United States. Unlike the Smithsonian Institution, the center in Atlanta is privately funded and beyond the immediate reach of Trump administration efforts to control what Americans learn about their history. A Family Gallery for children under 12 will feature immersive, hands-on experiences to inspire a new generation's interest in rights and justice. Another gallery tells the history of the Reconstruction Era and its legacy, and a new Activation Lab encourages visitors to reflect on how to tap their power to make positive changes in their communities.

'The Pitt' wins drama Emmy Award as the 'The Studio' breaks Emmys comedy record

LOS ANGELES (AP) — "The Pitt" has won best drama series at the Emmys, with Noah Wyle taking best actor in a drama. "The Studio" sets a record for most wins by a comedy series in a single season. Netflix’s "Adolescence" dominates the limited series categories with six victories, including best limited series. Seth Rogen, co-creator of "The Studio," personally takes four Emmys. Owen Cooper, at 15, becomes the youngest Emmy winner in over 40 years. Cristin Milioti wins best actress in a limited series for "The Penguin." Jean Smart won best actress in a comedy for "Hacks" for the fourth time.