Updated May 7, 2019

Trump pardons former U.S. soldier convicted of killing Iraqi prisoner

Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images

President Trump has granted a full pardon to Michael Behenna, a former U.S. soldier convicted in 2009 of killing an Iraqi prisoner, the White House announced Monday.

Why it matters: Behenna was originally sentenced to 25 years in prison for unpremeditated murder in a combat zone after killing Ali Mansur Mohamed, which was later reduced to 15 years. The former Army first lieutenant has long said he acted in self-defense.

The big picture: Behenna was paroled in 2014 and had been scheduled to remain on parole until 2024. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter petitioned the White House for the pardon.

What they're saying: White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement that the highest appeal court "noted concern about how the trial court had handled Mr. Behenna's claim of self-defense."

"Mr. Behenna’s case has attracted broad support from the military, Oklahoma elected officials, and the public. ... Further, while serving his sentence, Mr. Behenna was a model prisoner. In light of these facts, Mr. Behenna is entirely deserving of this Grant of Executive Clemency."

Go deeper

Dan Primack

Serological coronavirus testing could be key to economic reopening

Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios

America's economy won't reopen anytime soon, despite frantic CEO whispers, but a glimmer of hope may be emerging in the form of serological testing.

Why it matters: Serologic tests aren't to determine whether or not you're infected with coronavirus. They are to determine if you have potential immunity that could allow you to safely return to work.

Go deeper1 hour ago - Economy & Business

Ina Fried

Government tech struggles to dole out coronavirus stimulus cash

Illustration: Eniola Odetunde/Axios

Tech challenges are hampering federal and state government efforts to get funds from the $2 trillion coronavirus relief law into the hands of newly unemployed workers and struggling small businesses who need it.

Why it matters: Many businesses and individuals need the money now for essentials, including meeting payroll and paying rent.

Go deeper3 hours ago - Technology

Rebecca Falconer, Orion Rummler, Marisa Fernandez

U.S. coronavirus updates: Death toll passes 9,600

Data: The Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins; Map: Andrew Witherspoon/Axios

Recorded deaths from the novel coronavirus surpassed 9,600 in the U.S. on Monday, per Johns Hopkins data. More than 1,000 people in the U.S. have died of coronavirus-related conditions each day since April 1.

Why it matters: U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams said on Sunday the coming week will be "the hardest and saddest week of most Americans' lives" — calling it our "our Pearl Harbor, our 9/11 moment."

Go deeperUpdated 3 hours ago - Health