MPs Diane Abbott and Joani Reid have been allowed back into the Labour Party after previously being suspended. Both have also been readmitted to the parliamentary party, so they can work as Labour MPs again.
Key Facts
Diane Abbott and Joani Reid were suspended from the Labour Party.
They have now been readmitted to the Labour Party.
They are also back in the parliamentary party.
This means they can sit and vote as Labour MPs.
The Labour Party made an official statement about their return.
The suspensions and readmissions happened recently in 2025.
Diane Abbott has spoken publicly about her suspensions.
The news relates to UK politics and the Labour Party’s internal decisions.
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Scouting America has removed special areas for gay youth, women, and scouts of color at its National Jamboree after pressure from the Pentagon. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth threatened to end the Pentagon’s long-standing partnership with Scouting America if the group did not reduce its diversity efforts.
Key Facts
Scouting America dropped diversity initiatives from its National Jamboree event in West Virginia.
The changes came after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized the organization for its “woke” policies.
Some scouts decided not to attend the event because of the removal of inclusion programs.
The Pentagon and Scouting America reached an agreement in February, but details are contested.
The National Jamboree attracted about 15,000 scouts, leaders, and volunteers this year.
Scouting America rebranded in 2024 to emphasize inclusion and the rising number of girl scouts.
The Pentagon monitors Scouting America’s compliance through meetings and oversight.
James Dale, expelled from the Boy Scouts in the 1990s for being gay, sued the Defense Department and highlighted the Pentagon’s pressure on the group.
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The U.S. State Department will soon offer special limited-edition passports featuring a picture of President Donald Trump to Americans outside Washington, D.C. These commemorative passports celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States and will be available at passport agencies nationwide starting in August.
Key Facts
The special Trump-branded passports were previously only available at the Washington, D.C. passport office.
Starting next month, 27 passport agencies across the U.S. will offer these passports at special one-day events.
The passport shows a portrait of President Trump inside, making him the first living president featured in a U.S. passport.
The cover has gold lettering reversed from the usual design and a small gold American flag with "250" to mark the country’s 250th birthday.
The Department of State is releasing an additional 250,000 of these "Patriot Passports" due to high demand.
People must apply in person on specific days at participating passport offices to get the special passport.
The passports are part of a broader effort to include President Trump’s image and name on official items and buildings.
Current regular U.S. passports do not feature living presidents but show Mount Rushmore and historic national symbols instead.
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George and Amal Clooney evacuated their home in Brignoles, France, due to wildfires in the region. They sent a note to the town’s mayor expressing concern for the community and their commitment to help rebuild. The wildfire burned about 130 hectares and injured four firefighters while efforts to fully extinguish it continued.
Key Facts
George and Amal Clooney live in Brignoles, a town in southeastern France with about 18,000 people.
They evacuated their home because of wildfires in the area.
The Clooneys sent a note to Didier Bremond, the mayor, expressing hope that residents were safe and promising support.
The wildfire started on Wednesday, burned roughly 130 hectares (321 acres), and was contained but not fully out by early Thursday.
Four firefighters were injured while fighting the fire.
Wildfires are affecting large parts of southern Europe, including France, Spain, Greece, and reaching the U.K.
The Clooneys bought their home in France in 2021.
George Clooney has spoken positively about living on a farm in France for his family.
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Deborah Birx, who helped lead the U.S. government’s COVID-19 efforts, said many Americans remain angry about how the government handled the pandemic. She made these comments after Dr. Anthony Fauci’s recent Senate hearing, which revealed ongoing frustration about unanswered questions regarding the COVID-19 response.
Key Facts
Deborah Birx was the White House Coronavirus Task Force coordinator.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, the chief White House medical adviser, recently had a Senate hearing.
The hearing showed that many Americans are still upset about the COVID-19 response.
Birx described this anger as “persistent,” meaning it has lasted a long time.
People are frustrated because they feel some questions about the pandemic response were not fully answered.
The interview with Birx was on CBS News’s program called “The Takeout.”
The focus is on public dissatisfaction with government actions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Mortgage rates for 30-year home loans in the U.S. reached their highest level in a year, averaging 6.66% as of late July. This rise is linked to inflation worries, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, and uncertainty over possible interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve.
Key Facts
The average 30-year mortgage rate hit 6.66%, the highest since July 2025.
Inflation concerns and recent Fed decisions influenced mortgage rate increases.
The Federal Reserve recently kept its main interest rate unchanged, but some members voted to raise it.
Inflation remains above the Fed’s target of 2% despite some signs of slowing.
Tensions and conflicts involving Iran and the Middle East are causing oil prices and Treasury yields to rise.
Rising oil and fuel prices from shipping disruptions in the region contribute to inflation fears.
Deutsche Bank predicts the Fed may raise interest rates twice more in 2026.
Stability in the Middle East, especially reopening the Strait of Hormuz, could help lower rates.
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Hundreds of migrants entered the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, located in North Africa, by swimming and using inflatable devices to cross from Morocco. Local leaders said the number of arrivals has overwhelmed resources and called on the Spanish government for help.
Key Facts
Between 2,000 and 3,000 migrants arrived in Ceuta on one day, according to Spanish media estimates.
Migrants crossed by swimming around the border fence or running through a gate in the fence.
Ceuta is a Spanish territory on the northern coast of Morocco.
The arrival of migrants has put pressure on local services and resources.
Juan Jesús Vivas, the leader of Ceuta, has requested assistance from the Spanish government.
The Guardia Civil, Spain’s national police, has not officially confirmed the estimated number of arrivals.
Ceuta is a common entry point for migrants trying to reach Europe from North Africa.
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Iran threatened to retaliate against the United States after the U.S. carried out strikes in response to missile attacks on American forces in the Middle East. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard also warned Gulf countries that are assisting the U.S. in the conflict.
Key Facts
The U.S. launched strikes against targets in Iran overnight as retaliation for missile attacks on American forces.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard announced it would respond by punishing the United States.
Iran extended its threat to Gulf countries that support the U.S. military actions.
The conflict involves missile attacks against U.S. forces in the Middle East.
The situation reflects rising tensions between Iran and the U.S. and its allies in the region.
The Iranian statement calls the U.S. the “aggressor” in this conflict.
The strikes and threats increase concerns about wider regional instability.
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The war involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran has lasted six months and affected the Middle East region. President Donald Trump has met with Saudi and Israeli leaders to discuss ways to manage the conflict, including military actions and diplomatic options.
Key Facts
The war started in February and has spread across the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia and the U.S. jointly conducted strikes against Iranian-backed groups in Iraq and Yemen.
Saudi Arabia wants to avoid expanding the war and is cautious about Israel’s push for more action.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented President Trump with three strategies: removing Iran’s nuclear material, increasing economic pressure, or military strikes on supply routes.
Israel believes regime change in Iran is the only solution but U.S. intelligence doubts new strikes will remove the Iranian leadership.
President Trump prefers negotiating with the Iranian regime.
The United Arab Emirates also carried out airstrikes against Iran but kept them secret.
Gulf countries hosting U.S. troops have faced frequent drone and missile attacks.
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A recent poll by the Associated Press found that about two-thirds of Americans think a war with Iran is not worth fighting. This shows that most people in the U.S. prefer to avoid military conflict with Iran.
Key Facts
The poll was conducted by the Associated Press.
Around 66% (two-thirds) of Americans said war with Iran is not worth fighting.
The poll reflects public opinion about U.S. involvement in a possible Iran conflict.
CBS News covered the poll and shared related reports.
The poll indicates a majority of Americans favor diplomacy or other solutions instead of war.
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The White House and President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace are close to reaching an agreement with Hamas to disarm and demilitarize the Gaza Strip. This deal would allow a new Palestinian government to take control and begin rebuilding Gaza, though Hamas has not yet signed the agreement and some officials remain doubtful it will follow through.
Key Facts
Hamas may soon agree to disarm and demilitarize Gaza under a 15-point plan negotiated by the U.S., Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.
The disarmament is necessary for the new Palestinian technocratic government, called NCAG, to start governing Gaza.
Gaza suffered heavy destruction from a two-year war, leaving most of its 2 million residents living in temporary shelters.
Since the ceasefire on October 10, 2025, nearly 1,200 Palestinians have died, including militants and civilians.
The U.S. Board of Peace and regional mediators have pressured Hamas by cutting off its funding and worsening its financial situation.
Egypt’s intelligence chief is playing a key role in negotiations, while Iran is encouraging Hamas to delay the agreement.
The plan includes handing over all Hamas weapons, sharing tunnel and weapons facility locations, and establishing a Palestinian police force vetted by Israeli security services.
An international force would supervise the weapons storage, and anti-Hamas militias armed by Israel would also be disarmed.
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Mandela Barnes has quit the race for Wisconsin governor's Democratic nomination just days before the August 11 primary. He made this announcement after a poll showed Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist candidate, leading among Democratic voters in Wisconsin.
Key Facts
Mandela Barnes was running in the Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor.
He announced he is dropping out less than two weeks before the primary election on August 11.
Barnes shared his decision in a video on his Facebook page.
Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist, is a key candidate in the race and has strong support from the party's liberal voters.
A recent poll from Marquette Law School showed Hong leading Barnes and others among Democratic primary voters.
About one-third of voters were still undecided in that poll.
Barnes was previously the lieutenant governor of Wisconsin.
The Democratic primary in Wisconsin is shaping up to be competitive and influenced by different wings of the party.
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Colin Gray was sentenced to 15 years in prison for his role in the 2024 shooting at Appalache High School, carried out by his son, Colt Gray. The case highlights legal consequences for family members involved in school violence incidents.
Key Facts
Colin Gray is the father of Colt Gray, who committed a school shooting at Appalache High School in 2024.
Colin Gray received a 15-year prison sentence.
The sentence was handed down on a Thursday.
The case involved legal responsibility for actions connected to the shooting.
The news report was covered by CBS News.
Rebecca Roiphe provided legal analysis for the story.
The shooting is described as a tragedy that took place at Appalache High School.
The sentencing reflects charges linked to Colin Gray’s involvement in the incident.
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This article discusses how preparing for retirement is not just about finances but also about dealing with changes in identity. It highlights the emotional and psychological adjustments people, especially women, face when they leave long-held roles and routines behind.
Key Facts
Many people spend a lot of time planning money matters for retirement but less time thinking about how retirement will change their sense of self.
Retirement is now seen as a chance to create a fulfilling life beyond work, not just as stopping work.
People often struggle with the question, "Who am I without my job or caregiving roles?"
Women may feel this identity change more strongly because their roles often include both careers and caregiving.
Building a new sense of self in retirement involves renewing relationships with oneself, with others, and with a larger purpose.
The author shares personal experience of losing and rediscovering confidence and self-awareness after years of balancing many responsibilities.
Retirement can be a time to celebrate accomplishments and explore new possibilities, focusing on legacy and “becoming” rather than just “building.”
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The National Urban League published its yearly report called "State of Black America," saying that life chances for Black Americans could get worse if President Trump has a second term. The report was put together by the Urban League, along with some lawmakers and business leaders.
Key Facts
The National Urban League is a civil rights group that has existed for 116 years.
It published the "State of Black America" report recently.
The report focuses on opportunities and challenges facing Black Americans.
It warns that a second Trump administration may harm prospects for minorities.
Lawmakers and business leaders helped create the report.
The report highlights concerns about social and economic issues affecting Black communities.
The publication came out just after President Trump’s re-election in 2024.
It reflects the Urban League’s role in promoting civil rights and equity in the U.S.
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The biggest outbreak of cyclospora, a parasite that causes diarrhea, seems to be slowing down. However, new cases of the parasite continue to appear during the summer, and experts warn it may spread more.
Key Facts
Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause diarrhea in people.
The largest recent outbreak of cyclospora is decreasing.
New outbreaks with unknown sources are still happening.
Experts expect the parasite may spread further during summer.
Cyclospora often spreads through contaminated food or water.
People should be aware of hygiene and food safety to reduce risk.
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A Senate committee approved Dr. Erica Schwartz’s nomination to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If confirmed by the full Senate, she will guide the agency through ongoing challenges, including political pressures and staff losses.
Key Facts
Dr. Erica Schwartz was nominated to be the 22nd director of the CDC.
She holds medical and law degrees and has served as deputy surgeon general and a U.S. Coast Guard leader.
The Senate Health Committee advanced her nomination after concerns about her standing up to political influence were addressed.
Some senators questioned whether she would resist instructions from political appointees that go against science, especially from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The CDC has lost over 3,000 employees since President Trump began his current term, hurting morale and operations.
Kennedy, a controversial figure linked to the anti-vaccine movement, has attempted to change vaccine guidelines, causing disputes.
Schwartz promised to protect scientific integrity but did not clearly oppose some of Kennedy’s actions during the hearing.
A group of former and current CDC workers asked for stronger, clearer commitments from Schwartz about defending the agency’s science-based work.
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A report from the National Urban League says that Black Americans face more difficulties achieving the American Dream than at any time since the Civil Rights Movement. The report links these challenges to policy changes made by President Donald Trump's administration.
Key Facts
The National Urban League released the annual "State of Black America" report.
The report says Black Americans' economic and political opportunities have worsened recently.
It points to policies from President Trump's administration as a key cause.
The report suggests these issues affect the future success of all Americans.
The Urban League describes the situation as a "state of emergency" for civil rights.
The report was made public on a Thursday and obtained by The Associated Press.
It compares current struggles to those faced since the Civil Rights era.
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A new survey shows that many US farm workers, especially those without legal immigration status, fear deportation due to increased immigration raids under President Donald Trump’s administration. These fears affect their daily lives, including their work, healthcare, and family security, with many hoping for legal protections and a path to citizenship.
Key Facts
The survey included 2,250 farm workers, mostly undocumented, conducted by the United Farm Workers Foundation.
92% said immigration raids and deportations have affected their jobs.
90% worry about being separated from their families.
61% are shopping less, and 29% avoid medical care because they fear immigration enforcement.
80% have lived in the US more than 10 years; 41% for over 20 years.
Most US farm workers are Hispanic (73%), with 66% being noncitizen immigrants and 47% lacking work authorization.
76% want protection from deportation; 53% hope for a way to get legal status and citizenship.
Many cannot visit family abroad due to their immigration status; 87% would visit if immigration reform passed.
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Four major Latino organizations are working together to increase Latino voter participation in the 2026 midterm elections. They aim to register 250,000 new voters and raise turnout by 5% by 2028, focusing on key states with close races.
Key Facts
The four organizations are UnidosUS, the LULAC Institute, Mi Familia en Acción, and Latino Victory Foundation.
Their joint effort is the largest coordinated nonpartisan Latino voter campaign in recent U.S. history.
They plan to reach over 5 million Latino voters and register 250,000 new voters.
Latino voters are the second-largest and fastest-growing voting group in the U.S., with more than 36 million eligible voters.
The campaign focuses on battleground states like Arizona, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Texas, Florida, Ohio, Colorado, New Mexico, and California.
Republicans, including groups like LIBRE Action, are also working to maintain Latino support from the 2024 elections.
Latino voters show varied political views and do not form a single-issue voting bloc.
The coalition's plans were announced at the Unidos annual conference in Austin, Texas.
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