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Cowboys, fighter jets and US Border Patrol - inside Trump's big recruitment drive

Cowboys, fighter jets and US Border Patrol - inside Trump's big recruitment drive

July 04, 2026 • Us • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A special rodeo event called Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Space Cowboys took place at the US Air Force Academy, combining Western rodeo culture with military and law enforcement recruitment. The US Space Force and US Border Patrol used this event to attract new recruits, especially as President Donald Trump pushes for more agents and funding for border security.

Key Facts

  • The event was held at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs and featured bull riding alongside military recruitment.
  • Space Force and US Border Patrol were present to recruit new members.
  • The rodeo and Border Patrol have had a partnership since 2008.
  • President Donald Trump signed laws to hire 3,000 new Border Patrol agents and allocated $70 billion for border security.
  • Border Patrol announced it now has over 21,000 agents, the highest number since 1924.
  • The event attracted over 30,000 people, combining entertainment and recruitment efforts.
  • Some young people at the event, unable to join the military due to health reasons, showed interest in Border Patrol careers.
  • Recruitment efforts included having a Border Patrol SUV and tent in a popular area alongside family-friendly rodeo activities.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World BBC US
Paul Pelosi involved hit-and-run crash, could face misdemeanor charges

Paul Pelosi involved hit-and-run crash, could face misdemeanor charges

July 04, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Paul Pelosi, the husband of Nancy Pelosi, was involved in a hit-and-run crash in California. He may face misdemeanor charges after the incident caused significant damage to another car.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened in Napa County, California.
  • Paul Pelosi was driving when the crash occurred.
  • The other car involved suffered "major" damage.
  • The Napa County Sheriff’s Office is handling the case.
  • Paul Pelosi is 86 years old.
  • He could be charged with misdemeanors, which are less serious crimes.
  • Nancy Pelosi is a former House Speaker.
  • The crash happened on a Friday.
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The Hill
What Sky buying ITV could mean for your favourite shows

What Sky buying ITV could mean for your favourite shows

July 04, 2026 • Business • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Sky, owned by American company Comcast, is set to buy ITV’s TV and streaming channels, creating a new British media company under American ownership. This deal will not remove ITV’s free-to-air service but could lead to future changes in how content is streamed or bundled.

Key Facts

  • Sky is expected to buy ITV’s TV and streaming channels, including ITVX.
  • Sky is owned by Comcast, an American company.
  • ITV must provide a free-to-air service until at least 2034 by law.
  • Popular ITV shows like Coronation Street and Love Island will continue to air on ITV and ITVX in the short term.
  • ITV Studios, ITV’s production arm, is not included in the sale and will remain separate.
  • A supply deal will likely keep ITV Studios producing shows for ITV after the takeover.
  • Sky might merge its streaming service with ITVX and offer more bundled content in the future.
  • Changes to beloved ITV shows can only happen after the current production agreement ends.
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BBC Top Stories BBC Business
150 people from 50 countries become US citizens at Mount Vernon on America’s 250th birthday

150 people from 50 countries become US citizens at Mount Vernon on America’s 250th birthday

July 04, 2026 • Us • AP News

Summary

On July 4, 2026, 150 people from 50 different countries became U.S. citizens during a ceremony held at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. The event coincided with the 250th anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence.

Key Facts

  • The naturalization ceremony took place on Independence Day at Mount Vernon in Alexandria, Virginia.
  • 150 new U.S. citizens represented 50 countries from around the world.
  • Among the new citizens was U.S. Marine Sgt. Diakaria Sangare from Guinea, who had served two military deployments.
  • All participants completed the citizenship requirements, including tests, interviews, green cards, and biometric checks.
  • Some new citizens came from countries experiencing violence or persecution.
  • The ceremony was attended by family members and included patriotic decorations such as American flags.
  • The event commemorated America’s 250th birthday, marking a historic milestone since the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
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AP News
'Salute to America' event being evacuated due to weather conditions

'Salute to America' event being evacuated due to weather conditions

July 04, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

The "Salute to America 250 Celebration & Fireworks" event in Washington, D.C. on July 4, 2026, was delayed and evacuated due to extreme heat and approaching severe thunderstorms. The city experienced its hottest July Fourth on record, with temperatures reaching 102 degrees, and officials prioritized safety by asking attendees to leave and seek shelter.

Key Facts

  • The July 4 event in Washington, D.C. was set to start at 7 p.m. but was delayed and partially canceled because of weather concerns.
  • Temperatures reached 102 degrees, the hottest July Fourth recorded in the city, breaking a 1919 record of 100 degrees.
  • A severe thunderstorm watch was issued for D.C. and nearby areas, with expected strong winds up to 60 mph.
  • Attendees were asked to evacuate the event early and find shelter in nearby buildings.
  • President Donald Trump planned to speak at the celebration at 10 p.m. despite the heat.
  • Event organizers and public safety officials closely monitored weather conditions to protect guests and staff.
  • Free water was distributed to help people cope with the heat during the event.
  • The event celebrated the nation’s 250th anniversary with music, speeches, and fireworks.
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ABC News
Prince Harry and Meghan: Will they or won't they, and will we care?

Prince Harry and Meghan: Will they or won't they, and will we care?

July 04, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Prince Harry and possibly his wife Meghan and their children plan to visit the UK this week. The trip is mainly to prepare for the Invictus Games and attend charity events, but family tensions and security concerns are also key issues.

Key Facts

  • Prince Harry will return to the UK with plans to attend five days of events starting in London and moving to Birmingham.
  • Meghan and the children may not be present at the start of the visit due to security concerns but might join later in the UK.
  • This would be the first time the Sussex family is together in the UK since 2022.
  • The visit coincides with the upcoming Invictus Games, which support injured military veterans.
  • Prince Harry is involved in a court case about alleged unlawful information gathering by a newspaper, with a ruling expected during the visit.
  • There is speculation about whether Meghan will meet King Charles and if there will be a family photo including the grandchildren.
  • The relationships between Prince Harry, King Charles, and other royal family members remain a focus of public and media attention.
  • Palace officials are concerned about how family moments might be used in media or publicity.
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BBC Top Stories
Moment of destiny for France's Le Pen in verdict to decide her future in presidential race

Moment of destiny for France's Le Pen in verdict to decide her future in presidential race

July 04, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

France is awaiting a court decision that will determine if Marine Le Pen can run in the next presidential election. Last year, she was found guilty of misusing European Union funds, and the appeal court’s verdict could either confirm her ban from office or allow her to participate in the race.

Key Facts

  • Marine Le Pen is the leader of the National Rally party and a leading candidate for the French presidency.
  • She was sentenced last year for misusing EU parliamentary funds by employing party staff who posed as EU assistants.
  • The original sentence included two years of home detention with an electronic tag and five years banned from holding public office.
  • The five-year ban on running for office started immediately and was not suspended during her appeal.
  • The appeal court will decide whether to keep, reduce, or overturn her sentence by March 2025.
  • If banned, Le Pen cannot run in the April 2027 presidential election, and her party’s candidate would likely be Jordan Bardella, who is younger and less experienced.
  • The court might issue a reduced ban, which could still affect her ability to campaign freely if an electronic tag is required.
  • This case is seen as highly significant because it affects the future of the French presidential race.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Australia news live: Albanese to target rightwing ‘race to the bottom’ at NSW Labor conference; first east coast bird flu case confirmed

Australia news live: Albanese to target rightwing ‘race to the bottom’ at NSW Labor conference; first east coast bird flu case confirmed

July 04, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) has confirmed its first case of the H5N1 bird flu in a migratory seabird found on the coast. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese plans to address the NSW Labor conference, defending recent tax changes and criticizing right-wing political groups.

Key Facts

  • NSW confirmed its first H5N1 bird flu case in a giant petrel found near Hawks Nest on the coast.
  • A total of six H5N1 cases have been confirmed in Australia, with tests ongoing on a seventh bird in Western Australia.
  • The NSW government stated the virus has not spread to wild birds or commercial poultry and has a plan to manage the situation.
  • Surveillance efforts include drones and ground inspections, with poultry producers urged to increase biosecurity.
  • Prime Minister Albanese will defend federal tax reforms related to negative gearing and capital gains at the NSW Labor conference.
  • Some local Labor branches support further tax reforms, including removing grandfathering for rental investors.
  • Albanese will criticize a right-wing alliance between Liberals, Nationals, and One Nation parties at the conference.
  • The Labor conference is preparing for upcoming state elections amid concerns about the rising influence of Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party.
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Guardian World
Pope Leo spends July Fourth at migrant cemetery in Italy, meets with U.S. ambassador

Pope Leo spends July Fourth at migrant cemetery in Italy, meets with U.S. ambassador

July 04, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

Pope Leo XIV spent July Fourth in Lampedusa, Italy, a key entry point for migrants trying to reach Europe, to honor those who died trying to find freedom. He also visited the U.S. ambassador to the Holy See, receiving gifts and discussing peace and religious freedom.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo XIV visited Lampedusa on July 4th, 2026, to pray at a migrant cemetery and celebrate Mass.
  • Lampedusa is an island close to Africa that serves as a main entry point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean.
  • Many migrants die trying to reach Europe by boat from North Africa, often trafficked by human smugglers.
  • Leo met migrants at the port and blessed a dock dedicated to Pope Francis, who visited in 2013.
  • He stressed that welcoming and protecting migrants honors human dignity and is a Christian responsibility.
  • Pope Leo also met with the U.S. ambassador to the Holy See, Brian Burch, who gave him a baseball, apple pie, and a U.S. World Cup jersey.
  • The pope emphasized the importance of compassion and generosity toward migrants and urged Europe to take responsibility.
  • He sent a message reminding Americans that the country was founded by immigrants and called for moral courage worldwide.
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CBS News
Trump, Bessent preview new currency bearing his signature

Trump, Bessent preview new currency bearing his signature

July 04, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revealed a new U.S. $100 bill that includes President Donald Trump’s signature. The bill is being released to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday and will soon be used in everyday transactions.

Key Facts

  • The new $100 bill shows President Donald Trump’s signature.
  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also signed the bill.
  • The bill was previewed publicly on Friday.
  • It will enter circulation soon, meaning people can start using it as money.
  • The new design honors the 250th anniversary of the United States.
  • The image of the bill was shared on President Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social.
  • This is a rare event where a sitting president’s signature appears on currency in their term.
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The Hill
WATCH: Dreamers and Innovators: American cinema

WATCH: Dreamers and Innovators: American cinema

July 04, 2026 • World • ABC News

Summary

The article presents a program called "Dreamers and Innovators: American cinema," hosted by Whoopi Goldberg. It explores the history of Hollywood and its impact on popular culture in the United States over the past 100 years.

Key Facts

  • Whoopi Goldberg hosts the program about American cinema history.
  • The show highlights Hollywood’s role in shaping popular culture.
  • It covers the last 100 years of American film history.
  • The program is part of a broader series of stories tied to American culture and history.
  • The article was published on July 4, 2026, coinciding with U.S. Independence Day.
  • The program is featured alongside other live streams and news stories about American history and events.
  • The focus is on both the dreamers (creative people) and innovators (people who bring new ideas) in the film industry.
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ABC News
Heat and severe storms damper July Fourth celebrations, leave thousands without power

Heat and severe storms damper July Fourth celebrations, leave thousands without power

July 04, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Severe storms and a heat wave affected many parts of the United States during the July Fourth holiday, causing widespread power outages and disruptions to celebrations. Cities in the Northeast and Midwest experienced record high temperatures and storm damage, leading to canceled fireworks and events.

Key Facts

  • Storms and heat waves caused hundreds of thousands of power outages across states including New York, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
  • New York City reached 98 degrees on July 3, and Atlantic City hit a July record of 105 degrees.
  • Strong winds from storms uprooted hundreds of trees and disrupted train services, especially in New Jersey.
  • Nearly one million people were without power at the height of the outages.
  • Emergency crews from 12 states and Canada were sent to Michigan to help restore power.
  • Several cities, such as Belleville (NJ), Annapolis (MD), and Philadelphia (PA), canceled or postponed July Fourth fireworks and parades due to weather conditions.
  • Washington, D.C., set a record for its warmest overnight low temperature at 84 degrees.
  • Despite the weather, President Donald Trump praised the crowds in D.C. and is expected to speak at the July Fourth event that evening.
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CBS News
The Papers: 'Kicking up a storm' and 'Burnham plots homes tax raid'

The Papers: 'Kicking up a storm' and 'Burnham plots homes tax raid'

July 04, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Several UK newspapers focus on the controversy around the changing kick-off time for the England vs. Mexico World Cup match. Other stories include plans by Andy Burnham to raise taxes on expensive homes and an investigation into Nigel Farage’s funding from a convicted crypto-gambler.

Key Facts

  • The England vs. Mexico World Cup match kick-off time changed, upsetting pub owners and fans.
  • England footballer Harry Kane encourages fans to stay up late to support the team if they advance.
  • The German embassy in the UK says German fans will support England in the match.
  • Andy Burnham plans to lower the tax threshold on expensive homes to £1.5 million, potentially affecting over 150,000 households.
  • The Tony Blair Institute warned against raising capital gains tax, saying it would send the wrong message.
  • Nigel Farage is being investigated for possibly not declaring funding support from a crypto-gambler with a US wire fraud conviction; his party denies any rule breach.
  • HS2, the UK’s high-speed rail project, spent £77.8 million on consultants in one year and £46.8 billion overall, with final costs still unknown.
  • The Observer reports that President Donald Trump and his family have made significant personal profits from his time in office.
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BBC Top Stories
7/4: CBS Weekend News

7/4: CBS Weekend News

July 04, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Fourth of July celebrations are happening across the United States despite a dangerous heat wave. There are strong security measures in place to keep holiday events safe.

Key Facts

  • The Fourth of July holiday is being celebrated nationwide.
  • A heat wave with dangerously high temperatures is affecting many areas.
  • People are continuing to hold holiday events despite the heat.
  • Security is increased at Fourth of July gatherings to ensure safety.
  • CBS Weekend News is covering these developments for viewers.
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CBS News
US influence challenged by changing global order: Paolo von Schirach

US influence challenged by changing global order: Paolo von Schirach

July 04, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Paolo von Schirach, president of the Global Policy Institute, says the time when the United States was the most powerful country after World War II has come to an end. He highlights that China and other growing countries are changing how the world works.

Key Facts

  • The United States held unmatched global power after World War II.
  • Paolo von Schirach is the president of the Global Policy Institute.
  • He says this period of US dominance has ended.
  • China is rising as a major global power.
  • Other emerging countries are also influencing global changes.
  • The shift is reshaping the international order.
  • This means the US now faces more competition worldwide.
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Al Jazeera
Fireworks, heat, hot dogs and politics: America celebrates its 250th birthday

Fireworks, heat, hot dogs and politics: America celebrates its 250th birthday

July 04, 2026 • Us • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The United States celebrated the 250th anniversary of its independence with fireworks, events, and special ceremonies across the country. The holiday took place amid a heat wave affecting many states and noticeable political tensions.

Key Facts

  • The 250th anniversary of American independence was marked by celebrations nationwide on July 4th.
  • President Donald Trump gave a speech warning of communism and praised U.S. exceptionalism at Mount Rushmore.
  • Fireworks were planned in major cities like Washington D.C., Chicago, and New York City.
  • New York City held a ball drop and a tall ship parade near the Statue of Liberty.
  • High temperatures caused some events, including a major parade and rodeo in Washington D.C., to be canceled or scaled back.
  • A naturalized U.S. Marine from Guinea became a citizen at George Washington’s Mount Vernon during the celebrations.
  • A white nationalist group marched in Washington D.C. without arrests reported.
  • Celebrations in Philadelphia included fireworks and events around Independence Hall and coincided with a World Cup soccer game.
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PBS NewsHour
The Atlantic republishes JD Vance’s Trump op-ed from 2016

The Atlantic republishes JD Vance’s Trump op-ed from 2016

July 04, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

The Atlantic republished an essay by Vice President JD Vance that he wrote about President Trump 10 years ago. The essay was first published shortly after Vance released his memoir, "Hillbilly Elegy," and included strong comments about President Trump before Vance became his vice president.

Key Facts

  • The essay by Vice President JD Vance was originally published on July 4, 2014.
  • It was republished by The Atlantic exactly 10 years later, on July 4, 2024.
  • The essay contains critical remarks about President Trump made before Vance became his second vice president.
  • The original essay was published soon after Vance’s bestselling memoir, "Hillbilly Elegy."
  • The Atlantic included an editor’s note with the republished article.
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The Hill
Watch live: Donald Trump to give major speech as America celebrates 250th anniversary

Watch live: Donald Trump to give major speech as America celebrates 250th anniversary

July 04, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump is scheduled to give a long speech on the National Mall during the United States' 250th anniversary celebration. The day will also feature military flyovers, events at the Great American State Fair, and a large fireworks display, despite very hot weather.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. is celebrating its 250th anniversary.
  • President Trump will deliver a long speech on the National Mall.
  • Military airplanes will fly over as part of the celebration.
  • The Great American State Fair is hosting events during the day.
  • A big fireworks show is planned for the evening.
  • There is record high heat expected on the day of the events.
  • First Lady Melania Trump will participate in the celebrations.
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The Hill
Sunday shows preview: After America 250, GOP shifts focus back to Trump’s agenda

Sunday shows preview: After America 250, GOP shifts focus back to Trump’s agenda

July 04, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Millions of Americans celebrated the 250th anniversary of the United States this weekend. At the same time, a strong heatwave affected many areas, causing very high temperatures and leading Washington, D.C., to reduce some planned events.

Key Facts

  • The country marked 250 years since U.S. independence.
  • Many Americans participated in the celebrations.
  • A heat dome caused very hot weather in over two dozen states and Washington, D.C.
  • Temperatures reached above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in several large cities.
  • The extreme heat forced Washington, D.C., officials to scale back some anniversary events.
  • The article mentions that the Republican Party is shifting focus back to President Trump’s agenda after the celebrations.
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The Hill
Paul Pelosi in hit-and-run in Napa County wine country, car left with major damage, authorities say

Paul Pelosi in hit-and-run in Napa County wine country, car left with major damage, authorities say

July 04, 2026 • Us • AP News

Summary

Paul Pelosi, husband of Representative Nancy Pelosi, was involved in a hit-and-run accident in Napa County, California. He hit a parked car, stopped briefly, then left the scene, and now faces possible misdemeanor charges.

Key Facts

  • The accident happened in Yountville, Napa County, California.
  • Paul Pelosi, age 86, was driving a brown convertible when he hit a parked car.
  • He stopped briefly but then drove away from the scene.
  • No injuries were reported in the accident.
  • A witness called 911 after seeing the collision.
  • Paul Pelosi was found nearby with his car severely damaged in front.
  • He had no alcohol in his system at the time of the crash.
  • The sheriff’s department recommends misdemeanor charges for leaving the scene.
  • Paul Pelosi had previously pleaded guilty to a 2022 misdemeanor for driving under the influence.
  • He is undergoing a usual state process to check if he can continue driving as an elderly person.
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AP News