3 Things to Know Today

Vintage movie countdown, illustration

1 Defense Rests in Derek Chauvin Murder Trail

The defense has rested – and closing arguments will be heard on Monday. After that, the jury will decide the fate of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin. As you know, Chauvin stands charged with charged with second-degree murder for the police-custody death of George Floyd last summer. Judge Peter Cahill told the jury to return to court Monday morning and be prepared to hear closing arguments as well as his instructions. Something the jurors already know? They’ll be sequestered during their deliberations – and to that end, the judge told the jury to "pack a bag," and plan to be there for a while. If the jury reaches a unanimous guilty verdict, Chauvin could get up to 15 years in prison. Speaking of Chauvin, he spoke in court yesterday – sort of. While he has the right to testify in his own defense, Chauvin declined to do so, instead asserting his fifth amendment rights against self-incrimination.

2 Pfizer: You're Probably Going To Need A Third Booster Shot

Pfizer's CEO says people will "likely" need a third booster dose of the COVID vaccine. Albert Bourla said the third dose might have to be taken within 12 months of getting fully vaccinated. In comments taped April 1st, only made available yesterday, Bourla added that it's possible people will need to get vaccinated against the coronavirus every year. That's because researchers still don't know how long you're protected against the virus once you've been fully vaccinated. The news comes as the CDC says a review panel will get together next week to discuss the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine. Advisers have scheduled a meeting for next Friday to figure out if the vaccine causes blood clots and what comes next if it does.J&J's product was paused after several women developed the rare, but serious clotting issues.

3 Biden Drops New Sanctions On Russia

President Biden is defending the new sanctions on Russia. The U.S. is imposing sanctions on Moscow for cyber hacks and attempted election interference. Speaking at the White House, Biden said the U.S. cannot let a foreign power interfere in America's democratic process. He also noted that the U.S. is expelling 10 Russian diplomats. The President called the moves appropriate and proportionate. He said he is not interested in escalating tensions with Russia. The sanctions also cover reports of bounties on the heads of American soldiers in Afghanistan. The President said the U.S. and Russia can work together productively on a range of important global issues. He noted that he suggested a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in coming months. Putin has not committed to a summit, which would likely occur in a neutral third country.


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