Key Headlines: US Elections, International Relations, Crisis Response

A roundup of the latest US domestic news includes a Georgia hand count of votes, significant spending by Kamala Harris' campaign, Sikhs facing threats in the US, US-Mexico violence claims, early voting in presidential polls, a California firefighter’s arson charges, and Trump rejecting another debate. Biden prepares a $375M aid package for Ukraine.

Following is a summary of current US domestic news briefs.

Georgia's Republican-controlled election board has mandated a hand count of millions of ballots for the upcoming presidential contest, drawing criticism from voting rights groups concerned about delays and potential errors. This is part of a series of recent rule changes aimed at securing and making the election more transparent.

Kamala Harris' campaign reported spending nearly three times more than Donald Trump's in August, highlighting a financial advantage in the fierce presidential race. Harris disclosed $174 million in spending last month, while Trump reported $61 million, as both sides gear up for the November 5 election.

Senior US officials met with Sikh activists to address the community's safety concerns, including a foiled murder plot against an activist. This coincided with President Joe Biden's upcoming meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underlining the importance of the Sikh community's security.

US Ambassador to Mexico refuted claims of American involvement in Sinaloa's cartel violence, which has claimed over 50 lives. The conflict is linked to the arrest of trafficker Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada.

In-person voting began in several states for the November 5 presidential election. Both parties consider it a crucial contest, with Vice President Kamala Harris and President Donald Trump presenting starkly contrasting narratives about the future of American democracy.

California firefighter Robert Matthew Hernandez was arrested for allegedly setting five fires amidst ongoing battles to control widespread wildfires in the state.

Donald Trump rejected another debate with Kamala Harris. This followed an announcement by Harris' campaign accepting CNN's invitation for an October 23 debate.

Trump campaigned in North Carolina without embattled ally Mark Robinson, whose controversial past comments have recently surfaced.

Kamala Harris joined Oprah Winfrey in a virtual campaign event, aiming to boost voter registration and support for Harris in key battleground states.

The US is preparing a $375 million military aid package for Ukraine as its conflict with Russia escalates, particularly affecting Ukraine's energy infrastructure ahead of winter.

(With inputs from agencies.)