ABC World News Season 11 Episode 189 Thu, Jul 9, 2020

The ABC World News Tonight with David Muir, a renowned news program that provides in-depth coverage of national and international news, aired its 11th season's 189th episode on Thursday, July 9, 2020.

The episode began with a breaking news story on the record-breaking surge of COVID-19 cases in the United States. David Muir reported on the alarming statistics, citing the highest single-day spike of 67,000 new cases, with several states witnessing an unprecedented spike in infections. The anchor also talked about the steps being taken by some governors to counteract the virus's spread, including mandatory mask-wearing and restrictions on large gatherings.

The program then shifted its focus to the bizarre assassination attempt in Mexico City of the country's Public Safety Secretary, Omar Garcia Harfuch. The report stated that a group of heavily armed men attacked Harfuch's convoy, leading to a firefight that left three dead, including two members of Harfuch's security detail. The anchor explained that the incident was an indication of growing violence in the country amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following that, the program featured a segment on the protests in Portland, Oregon. David Muir reported that the Trump administration had dispatched federal agents to control the situation in the city, leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement officials. The anchor remarked that the move has generated widespread criticism, with many questioning the authority of the government to interfere in local affairs.

The program also covered the developments in the Jeffrey Epstein case. It was revealed that Epstein’s former close companion, Ghislaine Maxwell, was arrested in New Hampshire on charges of luring minors to engage in illegal sexual activity with Epstein. The report stated that Maxwell appeared in court and was denied bail, with the judge citing her "significant financial resources" and "extensive international ties" as the reasons. The segment went on to recount Maxwell’s life story, her role in the Epstein case, and the charges against her.

The program then shifted its focus to the developments in the Russian bounty scandal. The program explained that it was revealed by intelligence sources that the Russian government had offered bounties to Taliban-linked militants in Afghanistan to kill American soldiers. David Muir reported that the revelation had created a political storm, with several lawmakers and veterans' groups condemning the alleged actions of the Russians. The segment highlighted the long-standing tensions between the US and Russia and put the recent developments into perspective.

Later on, the program reported on the case of Vanessa Guillén, a soldier in Fort Hood Army base in Texas, who went missing in April and was found dead two months later. The report explained that Guillén's family had accused the army of failing to take prompt action to find her and protect her from harassment by fellow soldiers. The segment reported on the army's investigation into the case, the protests demanding justice for Guillén, and the potential repercussions of the case on the army's reputation.

The program also featured a heart-warming segment about a young boy who had started a lemonade stand to raise money for a local animal shelter. The boy, who had become an internet sensation, raised thousands of dollars for the shelter by selling lemonade and attracting customers from all over the area. The segment celebrated the boy's remarkable achievement and highlighted the positive impact it had on his community.

Overall, the episode of the ABC World News Tonight with David Muir was a comprehensive coverage of the major news stories of the day. The program provided insightful analysis and presented the facts in a clear and engaging manner, making it a must-watch show for anyone interested in staying informed about the most critical issues of the day.