AP News Summary at 2:52 a.m. EDT | National News

• A Chinese national in Singapore received a heavier sentence after losing an appeal regarding the attempted rape of a former flatmate. • The court rejected the appeal, leading to an increased penalty for the perpetrator to reflect the severity of the crime.

• NBC's acclaimed political drama series, *The West Wing*, has returned as a Premium Video on Demand (PVOD) sensation. • The show has achieved significant popularity, currently ranking as the most-watched show in the United States.

• The Supreme Court concluded a consequential term with major rulings impacting immigration, transgender rights, and birthright citizenship. • Key legal actions included gutting significant portions of the Voting Rights Act and removing limits on coordination between political parties and candidates regarding spending.

• President Donald Trump commemorated the 250th anniversary of America’s independence, though celebrations were hampered by severe weather. • Storms forced a roughly two-hour evacuation of the National Mall and disrupted various festivities across several East Coast cities.

• Political scientist Sophie Fullerton warns that U.S. democracy has reached a "point of no return" as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. • Fullerton highlights the increasing politicization of national celebrations and the unpredictable, confrontational nature of governance under President Donald Trump.

• The conservative legal movement failed in its recent attempt to eradicate birthright citizenship, though it continues to challenge the Reconstruction Amendments. • The author argues that the Supreme Court is engaged in an "anti-constitutional crusade" aimed at creating second-class citizens through targeted legal strategies.

• The 1976 US bicentennial served as a cathartic event for a nation recovering from the "long national nightmare" of the Watergate scandal and political instability. • Despite the celebratory mood, the era was marked by a darkening economic outlook following the 1973 oil shock, which triggered inflation and unemployment.

• President Donald Trump marked the 250th anniversary of American independence on Friday by praising American exceptionalism. • During his remarks, Trump shifted from celebrating the nation's history to issuing warnings about the "sinister threat" of communism.

• Donald Trump held an Independence Day rally on the National Mall, though his speech was delayed due to inclement weather. • The delay caused some attendees to leave the event before the former president began speaking.

• President Donald Trump is commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence, though celebrations were briefly interrupted by severe storms. • The weather forced a temporary evacuation of the National Mall for approximately two hours before activities could resume.

• The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party reelected co-leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla during its national convention in Erfurt on Saturday. • Weidel secured 81% of the vote and Chrupalla earned 70%, both running unopposed to extend their four-year leadership terms.