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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Dispatches from the living memory of trans people of color

Dispatches from the living memory of trans people of color

Summary

A recent NPR episode from the Code Switch series discussed the experiences of older transgender people of color. The show included interviews with trans elders and featured a talk with author Caro De Robertis about their book on the history of trans, nonbinary, genderqueer, and Two-Spirit people of color.

Key Facts

  • The NPR episode focused on the lives of transgender people of color and their experiences over the years.
  • The podcast was produced by Jess Kung and edited by Leah Donnella and Dalia Mortada.
  • B.A. Parker co-hosted the show, and Kwesi Lee was the sound engineer.
  • The episode included an interview with Caro De Robertis about their book, "So Many Stars."
  • The book covers the oral history of people identifying as trans, nonbinary, genderqueer, and Two-Spirit, focusing on people of color.
  • Trans people have been advocating for their rights and dignity for many generations.
  • The podcast is available on platforms like the NPR App, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.
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One of the cheapest ways to save a life is going away

One of the cheapest ways to save a life is going away

Summary

A program called the U.S. President's Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has been very effective in saving lives by fighting AIDS. However, this program is facing cuts, which might reduce its ability to help people, especially in places like Eswatini and Lesotho.

Key Facts

  • PEPFAR is a U.S. government program aimed at combating AIDS.
  • The program has been one of the most cost-effective ways to save lives.
  • There are funding cuts to PEPFAR that started under the Trump Administration.
  • These cuts are affecting clinics in countries such as Eswatini and Lesotho.
  • Journalists traveled to these areas to report on the impact of these funding cuts.
  • The article includes related episodes discussing cuts to USAID, another aid program.
  • PEPFAR's effectiveness and the challenges it faces are important topics of discussion in global health.
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Cuomo concedes to left-wing outsider Zohran Mamdani in NY mayor primary

Cuomo concedes to left-wing outsider Zohran Mamdani in NY mayor primary

Summary

Andrew Cuomo admitted defeat to Zohran Mamdani in the New York City mayoral Democratic primary. This marks a significant political change as Cuomo, the former governor, attempted to return to politics after resigning in 2021 due to a scandal.

Key Facts

  • Andrew Cuomo conceded to Zohran Mamdani in the mayoral primary in New York City.
  • Zohran Mamdani is a state assemblyman and a democratic socialist.
  • Cuomo tried to make a political comeback after resigning as governor in 2021 following a sexual harassment scandal.
  • Mamdani is 33 years old.
  • If Mamdani wins the general election, he will become the first Muslim and Indian American mayor of New York City.
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FBI sharpens focus on counter-terrorism after Iran strikes

FBI sharpens focus on counter-terrorism after Iran strikes

Summary

After the US bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities, the FBI and other US agencies have increased their focus on counter-terrorism. Several Iranian nationals were arrested in the US, though authorities have not linked them directly to any specific plot.

Key Facts

  • The FBI is focusing more on counter-terrorism following recent events involving Iran.
  • An Iranian linked to the Revolutionary Guard and Hezbollah was arrested in the US.
  • The FBI and Department of Homeland Security have been in communication with US leaders about the heightened threat level.
  • Eleven Iranian citizens were arrested in the US shortly after the strikes.
  • No current credible threats to US soil have been reported by the Department of Homeland Security.
  • The arrests are part of broader efforts to deport immigrants illegally residing in the US.
  • Iran has a history of sponsoring violent attacks, but no specific current threat has been identified.
  • Federal and local officials are maintaining regular communication on national security issues.
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US sanctions alleged leader of Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua

US sanctions alleged leader of Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua

Summary

The U.S. Treasury Department has taken action against Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano, the alleged leader of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. He faces charges related to drug trafficking and terrorism, and a reward is offered for information leading to his capture. The U.S. government uses these charges to justify immigration measures, including deportations.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Treasury sanctioned Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano, who is linked to Tren de Aragua.
  • Mosquera Serrano is charged with drug trafficking and terrorism by the Department of Justice.
  • He is on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list, with a $3 million reward for information leading to his arrest.
  • The U.S. government claims the gang is tied to foreign criminal networks and uses this claim to justify immigration actions.
  • The Trump administration has labeled Tren de Aragua as a "foreign terrorist organization."
  • Critics argue that the expedited deportations violated immigrants’ rights to due process.
  • Some evidence questions whether the Venezuelan government controls Tren de Aragua.
  • The U.S. and Colombia offered rewards for information on Mosquera Serrano and other leaders of the gang.
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Sean 'Diddy' Combs' attorneys end their defence case after only 20 minutes

Sean 'Diddy' Combs' attorneys end their defence case after only 20 minutes

Summary

Sean "Diddy" Combs' defense team quickly ended their case in his trial after presenting for only about 20 minutes. He faces serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering, but his lawyers argue that the prosecution has not proven their case. Combs has pleaded not guilty and decided not to testify.

Key Facts

  • Sean "Diddy" Combs is on trial for charges like sex trafficking and racketeering.
  • If found guilty, he could face up to life in prison.
  • His defense team presented their case in about 20 minutes and did not call any witnesses.
  • Combs decided not to testify in his own defense.
  • The prosecutors presented their case over nearly seven weeks, calling over 30 witnesses.
  • His lawyers argue that the prosecution did not prove the charges against him.
  • Text messages were submitted as evidence to argue that encounters were consensual.
  • Closing arguments in the trial are scheduled for later in the week.
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US strikes did not destroy Iran nuclear programme, says Pentagon assessment

US strikes did not destroy Iran nuclear programme, says Pentagon assessment

Summary

The Pentagon's assessment found that recent US strikes on Iran did not destroy the country's nuclear program. The attack may have caused some delay, but Iran's enriched uranium stockpile remains intact.

Key Facts

  • The US conducted strikes on Iran's nuclear sites.
  • The Pentagon says these strikes did not destroy Iran's nuclear program.
  • The strikes might have only delayed Iran's program by a few months.
  • The Defense Intelligence Agency provided the assessment.
  • Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium was not eliminated.
  • The White House disputed the Pentagon's assessment.
  • President Trump claimed the strikes severely damaged the nuclear facilities.
  • This news is still developing, and updates will be provided.
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US whistleblower accuses Trump officials of willfully ignoring court orders

US whistleblower accuses Trump officials of willfully ignoring court orders

Summary

A former Department of Justice lawyer, Erez Reuveni, filed a whistleblower complaint alleging that DOJ officials ignored court orders during President Trump's efforts for mass deportation. The complaint includes accusations against Emil Bove, a former acting attorney general, who allegedly supported using a rarely invoked law to expedite deportations.

Key Facts

  • Erez Reuveni, a former DOJ lawyer, filed a complaint alleging misconduct by DOJ officials.
  • The complaint accuses the Trump administration of ignoring court orders to push for mass deportations.
  • Emil Bove, a former acting attorney general and Trump's personal lawyer, is implicated in the allegations.
  • Bove allegedly supported using the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 for expedited removals, rarely used in US history.
  • Reuveni claims Bove insisted on continuing deportation flights despite potential court challenges.
  • The complaint was sent to Congress and the Justice Department Inspector General.
  • Reuveni reports that a DOJ lawyer falsely claimed no imminent deportation flights, despite ongoing plans.
  • A court order later stopped the use of the Alien Enemies Act for deportations.
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Sen. Warner questions administration’s delay of Iran strike briefing

Sen. Warner questions administration’s delay of Iran strike briefing

Summary

Intelligence officials delayed briefings about the situation in the Middle East. The Senate will have its briefing on Thursday, and the House will have theirs on Friday.

Key Facts

  • Planned briefings for the Senate and the House about the Middle East were postponed.
  • The Senate briefing is now scheduled for Thursday.
  • The House briefing will take place on Friday.
  • Geoff Bennett talked with Senator Mark Warner about why the White House postponed the briefings.
  • Senator Mark Warner is the leading Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee.
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Time running out for GOP to pass massive tax and spending plan by Trump’s deadline

Time running out for GOP to pass massive tax and spending plan by Trump’s deadline

Summary

Republicans in Congress are trying to pass President Trump's large tax and spending plan quickly. They must stick together because they don't need any Democratic votes to succeed.

Key Facts

  • President Trump set a deadline to pass a big tax and spending plan.
  • The plan is being worked on by Republicans in Congress.
  • Republicans do not need any Democratic votes to pass the plan.
  • To succeed, Republicans must remain united in support of the plan.
  • Congressional correspondent Lisa Desjardins provided the report.
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White House set to roll back protections for nearly 60 million acres of national forests

White House set to roll back protections for nearly 60 million acres of national forests

Summary

The Trump administration has decided to remove protections for about 60 million acres of National Forest that previously prevented activities like logging, mining, and road-building. This change will allow these areas, which make up about one-third of national forest land, to be developed.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration is reducing protections for national forests.
  • Nearly 60 million acres of National Forest are affected.
  • These lands were previously protected from logging, mining, and road-building.
  • The change will allow development in these areas.
  • The affected land covers sites in more than 40 states.
  • This amounts to about one-third of all national forest land.
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Trump’s attempt to claw back funding already approved by Congress, explained

Trump’s attempt to claw back funding already approved by Congress, explained

Summary

The House approved a request from President Trump to take back billions of dollars that were set aside for foreign aid and public media. The Senate will review this request in a hearing scheduled for Wednesday.

Key Facts

  • The House agreed to President Trump’s plan to withdraw funds previously allocated for foreign aid and public media.
  • The term "claw back" means taking back money that was already allocated for certain purposes.
  • The request involves billions of dollars.
  • This request will next be reviewed by the Senate.
  • The Senate is set to hold a hearing about this request on Wednesday.
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Senator shares early intelligence on state of Iranian nuclear program

Summary

Senator Mark Warner, a leading member of the Senate intelligence committee, discussed information about Iran's nuclear program after a U.S. attack. This conversation took place during an interview with NPR.

Key Facts

  • Senator Mark Warner is from Virginia and is a top Democrat on the Senate intelligence committee.
  • Warner shared information about Iran's nuclear program.
  • The discussion happened after a U.S. attack, which is relevant to the intelligence shared.
  • NPR's Ari Shapiro interviewed Senator Warner.
  • The interview was broadcasted on the program "All Things Considered."
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Trump said he wants to send 30,000 immigrants to Gitmo. It's ready for a few hundred

Summary

Former President Donald Trump expressed plans to send 30,000 immigrants to the Guantanamo Bay facility, often referred to as Gitmo. However, Gitmo is currently only able to accommodate a few hundred people.

Key Facts

  • Former President Donald Trump talked about sending 30,000 immigrants to Guantanamo Bay.
  • Guantanamo Bay is a military detention facility.
  • The facility is commonly known as Gitmo.
  • Gitmo can currently hold only a few hundred individuals.
  • The plan discussed involves a much larger number of people than Gitmo can house now.
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New U.S. intelligence report suggests Iran’s nuclear program only set back by months after strikes

New U.S. intelligence report suggests Iran’s nuclear program only set back by months after strikes

Summary

A U.S. intelligence report found that Iran's nuclear program was only set back by a few months following a U.S. strike, contrary to claims by President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu that it was entirely destroyed. The report indicated that while there was some damage, key parts of Iran's nuclear infrastructure, including uranium and centrifuges, remained intact.

Key Facts

  • A U.S. intelligence report assessed Iran's nuclear program and found it was only delayed by a few months.
  • The report contradicts statements by President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, who claimed Iran's nuclear sites were "totally destroyed."
  • The U.S. strikes targeted Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites, causing some damage.
  • Significant amounts of Iran's highly enriched uranium were moved before the strikes and survived.
  • Most of Iran's centrifuges—machines that help make nuclear fuel—remained intact after the strikes.
  • At the Fordo site, some entrances collapsed and surface infrastructure was damaged, but the underground areas were not destroyed.
  • The White House disputed the intelligence report, stating it is incorrect and defends the strike as effective.
  • The intelligence report was made by the Defense Intelligence Agency and first reported by CNN.
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'A lid on a pot': How does a heat dome work?

'A lid on a pot': How does a heat dome work?

Summary

A heat dome is causing very high temperatures in the eastern U.S., affecting 160 million people. This high-pressure system traps heat in the area, leading to extreme weather conditions.

Key Facts

  • A heat dome is a large high-pressure area that traps warm air and keeps it from moving.
  • The heat dome is affecting areas from the Lower Mississippi Valley to the East Coast of the U.S.
  • Over 160 million people are under heat warnings and advisories.
  • Boston recorded a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit on Tuesday.
  • Some areas in Pennsylvania had heat index values over 100 degrees.
  • In central North Carolina, forecasters predicted heat index values could reach 115 degrees.
  • The heat dome is linked to the jet stream's current path, which affects weather patterns.
  • Similar to last year, this heat dome marks the start of summer with record high temperatures.
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Sister vs brother: A local Florida election is a family rivalry

Sister vs brother: A local Florida election is a family rivalry

Summary

In Florida, siblings Randolph Bracy and LaVon Bracy Davis are competing against each other in a Democratic primary for a state senate seat. Their mother supports LaVon, acting as her daughter's campaign manager, while their family friend, Geraldine Thompson, previously held the seat for 20 years until her recent death.

Key Facts

  • Randolph Bracy and LaVon Bracy Davis are siblings running against each other in a Florida state senate primary.
  • Their mother, Lavon Wright Bracy, is managing LaVon's campaign.
  • The election is held to fill a seat previously occupied by Geraldine Thompson, a longtime family friend who recently passed away.
  • Geraldine Thompson's family is endorsing LaVon Bracy Davis.
  • Randolph Bracy expressed disappointment that his sister chose to run against him.
  • Both siblings have served in the Florida state legislature in the past.
  • Besides the Bracy siblings, there are two other candidates in the race: former US congressman Alan Grayson and attorney Coretta Anthony-Smith.
  • The primary winner is likely to win the general election in September, as the district typically votes Democratic.
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Millions swelter as heatwave descends on North America

Millions swelter as heatwave descends on North America

Summary

A heatwave is affecting the eastern half of North America, with temperatures breaking records and impacting daily life for over 160 million people. Health warnings are in place, and people are advised to stay cool, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable neighbors. The heatwave is expected to continue for several days, with particularly high temperatures in the Mid-Atlantic region and the eastern Ohio Valley.

Key Facts

  • The heatwave affects areas from the US Midwest and East Coast to parts of Canada (Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia).
  • Over 160 million people are under heat warnings due to this weather event.
  • High humidity and warm nights make the heatwave more dangerous.
  • Forecasters predict some areas may set new record high temperatures, including New York, which could reach 101°F (38°C).
  • The US National Weather Service advises people to watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
  • People are encouraged to avoid sun exposure during peak heat, drink water, and check on elderly and vulnerable individuals.
  • Energy companies are asking customers to conserve electricity because of increased air conditioning use, which could cause power outages.
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Republican plan to sell millions of acres of federal lands found to violate Senate rules

Republican plan to sell millions of acres of federal lands found to violate Senate rules

Summary

A plan to sell over 2 million acres of federal land was removed from a Republican tax and spending cut bill. The Senate parliamentarian ruled that the proposal, suggested by Senate Energy Chairman Mike Lee, violated Senate rules. Although environmental groups celebrated this as a win for public lands, Lee intends to revise and continue pursuing the plan.

Key Facts

  • The proposal involved selling federal lands to states or other entities for housing or infrastructure.
  • Senate parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough said the proposal broke Senate rules.
  • Some Western state governors had mixed reactions, with New Mexico's governor opposing and Wyoming's governor offering partial support.
  • Mike Lee plans to revise the proposal, excluding U.S. Forest Service land and limiting sales by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management to areas near towns.
  • Environmental organizations considered the parliamentarian's decision a victory for public land protection.
  • The proposal is part of broader Republican interests to transfer federal land control to local entities.
  • Proposals related to federal land management often spark debate about development and conservation.
  • The plan would have affected land across 11 Western states, excluding Montana after objections.
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WATCH LIVE: State Department briefing likely to address Israel-Iran ceasefire, Trump at NATO summit

WATCH LIVE: State Department briefing likely to address Israel-Iran ceasefire, Trump at NATO summit

Summary

A ceasefire between Iran and Israel is currently in place after some initial challenges. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed frustration with both nations, but the ceasefire has led to a pause in attacks from both sides.

Key Facts

  • A ceasefire between Iran and Israel is being observed after initial violations.
  • Israel accused Iran of firing missiles into its airspace, but Iran denied this.
  • U.S. President Trump was frustrated with both nations for breaking the agreement.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu paused further strikes after a discussion with Trump.
  • The conflict involves fears over Iran developing nuclear weapons, which Iran says is not its intention.
  • A prolonged conflict in the region could impact global economics, especially if Iran blocks the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Trump mentioned that the ceasefire allows for continued oil trade between Iran and China.
  • An Iranian nuclear scientist was reportedly killed amid the tensions.
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