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PHIL MCGRAW

Government rushes virus gene-mapping as mutations spread

The U.S. is scrambling to expand DNA mapping of coronavirus samples to identify potentially deadlier mutations starting to spread around the country. But the more significant action is on Capitol Hill, where a House bill headed for floor debate would provide $1.75 billion for genomic sequencing. The U.S. now maps only the genetic makeup of a minuscule fraction of positive virus samples, a situation some experts liken to flying blind. Baldwin says the U.S. should be analyzing at least 15% of positive virus samples. “Genomic sequencing testing is how we will spot variants early before they spread,” said White House COVID response coordinator Jeff Zients.

Prosecutors: Man's hatred was behind Minnesota mosque attack

Several men were gathered at Dar al-Farooq Islamic Center for early morning prayers on Aug. 5, 2017, when a pipe bomb was thrown through the window of an imam’s office. Prosecutors said Hari — the leader of an anti-government group called the White Rabbits — came up with the plan for the attack. Hari's attorney, James Becker, told jurors that prosecutors have no meaningful forensic evidence that points to Hari's involvement in the attack. Ethen also described the fear that permeated the community that worships at the mosque, and said the attack led many to stop worshipping there. “The detonation of that bomb shattered the Dar Al-Farooq community,” Ethen said.