US death toll from COVID-19 hits 900,000, sped by omicron

14 Sept 02:09 Key points summarised by AI

The U.S. COVID-19 death toll rapidly reached 900,000, with the highly contagious Omicron variant significantly accelerating the increase, adding 100,000 deaths in just 51 days.
This somber milestone comes over a year into a vaccination drive, with experts criticizing societal failures in vaccine uptake, combating misinformation, and the politicization of public health measures.
President Joe Biden acknowledged the immense emotional and psychological toll, urging Americans to get vaccinated and boosted, noting that these efforts have saved over a million American lives.
Despite a recent decline in Omicron cases and hospitalizations, daily deaths remain high, and public health officials express cautious optimism while warning of potential future surges and new variants.
The U.S. maintains the highest reported death toll globally, with COVID-19 becoming one of the top three causes of death in the nation, reflecting the virus's profound and ongoing impact.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.