While you were sleeping, we compiled the biggest stories of the day in one place. Each story has a quick and easy summary, so you're prepared for whatever the day brings. Just click on the links if you want to know more! You can watch the latest LIVE on WPTV here from 4:30 a.m. to 7 a.m.
Remember, you can join Mike Trim and Ashleigh Walters every weekday on WPTV NewsChannel 5 beginning at 4:30 a.m.
1. Is Trump worried about the polls in Florida? His son Eric says no
In an interview with WPTV, Eric Trump was dismissive of polls showing his father trailing -- at least for now -- in key battleground states, including Florida. Put the Sunshine State in the must-win category for both candidates.
"There is a massive silent majority," Eric said. "We did a poll recently (and) 78% of people didn't feel comfortable telling people what political party they are affiliated with because we live in something called the cancel culture. If you disagree with the radical left, you're canceled, so people want to be quiet. And, again, 78% of people are very uncomfortable saying which political party they are affiliated with, which I think bodes very well for us."
2. Trump changes his mind on vote by mail... but only in Florida
In recent weeks, President Donald Trump has claimed the increased mail-in voting could endanger the integrity of the 2020 election, despite ample evidence to the contrary. He's even threatened to delay the election over the issue — something he does not have the power to do under the Constitution.
However, in a Tuesday afternoon tweet, Trump backtracked his stance on mail-in voting in at least one state: Florida.
Whether you call it Vote by Mail or Absentee Voting, in Florida the election system is Safe and Secure, Tried and True. Florida’s Voting system has been cleaned up (we defeated Democrats attempts at change), so in Florida I encourage all to request a Ballot & Vote by Mail! #MAGA
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 4, 2020
3. Body camera footage of George Floyd’s fatal arrest leaked
The Daily Mail released leaked footage of the fatal Memorial Day arrest of George Floyd, who died while in the custody of Minneapolis Police.
The footage shows officers pointing weapons at Floyd in order to get him to exit his vehicle and put up his hands. The video then shows Floyd pleading with officers not to shoot him.
As Derek Chauvin laid on Floyd’s neck, Floyd could be heard telling officers, “Tell my kids I love them. I'm dead.”
4. Is this the beginning of the end of the NFL 2020 season? Dolphins receiver opts out of season
Miami Dolphins wide receiver is opting out of the 2020 season because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Allen Hurns made the announcement Tuesday on Twitter, saying it's "what's best for my family" with a new baby on the way.
"I will continue to support my team and brothers across the league wholeheartedly and wishing them the best going forward this season," he tweeted.
— Allen Hurns (@A1hurns) August 4, 2020
5. Woman's body found on side of I-95 in St. Lucie County
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a man discovered the body in the southbound lanes near mile marker 127, which is north of Midway Road, when he pulled over with car trouble.
The St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office said the deceased is a middle-aged white or Hispanic woman who was likely left on the side of I-95 sometime during the overnight hours. Detectives said she's between 30 and 50 years old, 5'4", 112 pounds, with blonde hair and brown eyes.
No other details, including the woman's identity or how she died, have been released.
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On This Day In History
On August 5, 1861, President Lincoln imposes the first federal income tax by signing the Revenue Act. Strapped for cash with which to pursue the Civil War, Lincoln and Congress agreed to impose a 3 percent tax on annual incomes over $800.
