promoearn: Naming a Supreme Court nominee is the easy part

Monday, July 9, 2018

Naming a Supreme Court nominee is the easy part

These four judges are believed to make up President

The battle over the Supreme Court begins

President Donald Trump will name his choice to replace retiring Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy during a TV announcement at 9 p.m. EDT Monday. His list is apparently down to four names (and two favorites). No matter which nominee Trump announces, his or her fate rests in the hands of six senators. With a close Senate confirmation vote likely, these lawmakers could decide whether Trump's pick makes it to the high court. Senate Republicans have little wiggle room, holding a tight 51-49 majority.

World watches as five remain trapped in Thailand cave

A heroic rescue effort in Thailand has freed eight boys from a local soccer team who have been trapped in the depths of a watery cave for more than two weeks. But four boys and the Wild Boars' coach remain, and officials are uncertain when they will be rescued. The team hiked into the maze-like cave system after a practice on June 23 when heavy rains flooded parts of the cave and blocked their exit. They were found a week ago, but their extraction has proven difficult – a Thai navy SEAL died last week during preparations for the rescue.

One Frappuccino, hold the plastic straw

Starbucks joins a growing list of companies aiming to get rid of plastic straws. The coffee titan announced it will phase out plastic straws from all its stores by 2020. Replacing those 1 billion plastic straws used annually at Starbucks stores will be recyclable, strawless lids for drinks like iced coffees and teas. For Frappuccino fans, Starbucks will offer straws made from alternative materials.

A new royal heir is ready for his closeup

Britain's royal family gathered Monday to witness the christening of Prince Louis , the third royal Cambridge heir born in April. The ceremony in the Chapel Royal at St. James's Palace in London was not only the world's first peek at the new royal baby, but also the first look at the new family of five – Prince William and Duchess Kate, and kids George, Charlotte and Louis – since the birth. Also in attendance: newlyweds Uncle Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan of Sussex (who stunned in a custom, olive Ralph Lauren dress)

'House of Cards' star speaks about Spacey for first time

"House of Cards" star Robin Wright has played it close to the vest with her feelings about the sexual assault allegations that cost former co-star Kevin Spacey his job. But she gave her first televised interview about the scandal Monday on NBC's "Today" show, saying she was shocked and saddened when the news broke. Although Wright distanced herself from Spacey – "I didn't know the man" – she also said he always treated her with respect. She declined to answer when asked if she agreed with hisbeing fired.

The Short List is a compilation of stories from across USA TODAY.

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