Monday, March 18th, 2024

Today’s Headlines: In Russia, Vladimir Putin secured his fifth term as president, extending his reign until 2030, amidst expected victory in the election. However, protests erupted locally and internationally against Putin's rule, with demonstrators rallying against him in support of the "Noon Against Putin" movement initiated by the late Alexei Navalny. Meanwhile, in the US, former President Donald Trump stirred controversy at a rally in Ohio, making racist remarks and asserting baseless claims about the election. Even his former Vice President, Mike Pence, publicly distanced himself, stating that he wouldn't endorse Trump due to his disregard for the Constitution. In Georgia, a judge ruled that the election interference case against Trump can proceed with District Attorney Fani Willis leading, provided her boyfriend, Nathan Wade, is removed from the case, prompting Wade's resignation. Additionally, another incident involving a United Airlines flight landing without a panel in Oregon sparked FAA investigations. On a lighter note, a study from South Korea revealed the therapeutic benefits of playing with dogs, showing improved relaxation and concentration among participants, echoing previous findings about the positive impact of service dogs on mental health.

Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode:

Axios: Protests against Putin erupt at polls on last day of Russian election

The Guardian: Trump predicts ‘bloodbath’ if he loses election and claims ‘Biden beat Obama’

AP News: Former Vice President Mike Pence says he's not endorsing Trump | AP News

WA Post: Fani Willis can stay on Trump Georgia case, judge rules, as Wade resigns

BBC: United Airlines flight 433 lands safely without panel in Oregon

NBC News: Playing with dogs helps people concentrate and relax, brain recordings show

Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson

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