New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez has resigned after a failed bid to keep his Senate seat following a guilty verdict on federal bribery charges. His resignation took effect on the same day, ending his 50-year political career. Governor Phil Murphy has appointed George Helmy as the senate-designate to fill the vacant seat until after the election. (UPI)
A UPS worker in north Texas passed out from heat-related illness while driving, crashing the company vehicle into the woods. The worker was released from the hospital the following day. The union criticized UPS for not following safety guidelines and urged drivers to prioritize their health and safety. (NBC News)
Maria Branyas, the world’s oldest person at 117 years old, has passed away peacefully in her sleep, according to her family. Branyas, born in San Francisco in 1907 and living in Spain, tested positive for COVID-19 at age 113 but did not experience severe symptoms. The Gerontology Research Group now lists Japan’s Tomiko Itooka as the next oldest person at 116 years old. (AP)
A federal judge in Texas has blocked a new FTC rule that would end non-compete agreements, making it easier for workers to quit a job and work for a competitor. U.S. District Judge Ada Brown sided with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, ruling the FTC exceeded its authority and the rule would cause irreparable harm. The FTC is considering appealing the decision. (AP)
Alaska Airlines’ $1.9 billion takeover of Hawaiian Airlines advanced as it cleared U.S. Justice Department antitrust review. The merger will keep separate brands initially but offer combined services. Pending Transportation Department approval, it would create the fifth largest U.S. airline, with Honolulu as a key hub for expanded service to Asia and the Pacific. (UPI)
