There's some optimism in Washington as negotiations over the debt ceiling seem to have gone

well yesterday and it looks like the NBA's next generational player is headed to San Antonio.

That's some of what we'll get to on the 7 from the Washington Post. I'm Jeff Pierre. It's Wednesday, May 17th. Let's get you

caught up with today's seven stories. First up, talks to prevent a debt ceiling crisis might finally be moving forward.

President Biden and Republican negotiators

seemingly made progress during talks at the White House yesterday.

After the meeting, Biden spoke about the common ground

between both sides.

There was an overwhelming consensus, I think, in today's meeting the congressional leaders

that to falling on the dead is simply not an option.

Our economy would fall into recession.

It would devastate retirement accounts, increase

barring costs, and according to Moody's, nearly 8 million Americans would lose

their jobs and an international reputation would be damaged in the extreme

and further let that happen.

Congress must raise or suspend the limit on the amount of money the US can borrow to pay its bills.

If that doesn't happen by June 1st, it could unleash chaos.

Biden will cut his trip to Asia Short

to focus on finalizing a deal.

He leaves for that trip today.

Number two, North Carolina banned most abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy.

The state legislature yesterday voted to override the recent veto by Democratic Governor Roy Cooper.

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