Terry McAuliffe says felons have paid their debt to society and deserve enfranchisement. Republicans say he is trying to increase Democratic voter rolls for November.
Nation & World
Craft distillers tap pure sugar cane for a southern rum renaissance
The South was once a hub for sugar plantations. Now, small rum-makers are turning away from molasses, culling fresh sugar cane itself to create smooth liquors with grassy, woody or floral flavors.
U.S. federal judge grants nationwide injunction blocking White House transgender policy
The Obama administration advised school districts that trans students should be given access to bathrooms based on gender identity. A judge in Texas says the guidance can’t be enforced for now.
Speedo cancels sponsorship deal with Ryan Lochte
Saying it can’t condone Ryan Lochte’s behavior in Rio, swimwear company Speedo says it’s donating part of Lochte’s fee — $50,000 — to Save the Children, earmarked for children in Brazil.
Louisiana Takes Stock Of The Damage After Devastating Flooding
The state is entering recovery mode after the flooding killed 13 people and damaged at least 60,000 homes across 20 parishes. It’s expected to take months and the governor says the state needs help.
Iraq Executes 36 Accused Of Slaying More Than A Thousand Iraqi Soldiers
They were accused of carrying out the 2014 ISIS massacre of over a thousand Iraqi troops. The U.N. discouraged fast-tracking the executions, saying torture may have been used to extract confessions.