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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Minnesota Sen. Tina Smith calls for 'meaningful restraint' of 'lawless' federal agents

Minnesota Sen. Tina Smith calls for 'meaningful restraint' of 'lawless' federal agents

Summary

Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota expressed concerns about federal agents in the state and stated she would not support more funding for agencies like ICE and the Department of Homeland Security. She emphasized the need for caution in their operations.

Key Facts

  • Senator Tina Smith is from Minnesota and is a member of the Democratic Party.
  • She has concerns about the actions of federal agents in Minnesota.
  • Senator Smith spoke about the killings of U.S. citizens in the state.
  • She stated that she will not support additional funding for ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement).
  • She also opposes more funding for the Department of Homeland Security.
  • The focus is on using "meaningful restraint" in federal operations.

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Hundreds of thousands without power in aftermath of massive winter storm

Hundreds of thousands without power in aftermath of massive winter storm

Summary

A large winter storm covered many areas in the United States with snow and ice, causing power outages for hundreds of thousands. The storm resulted in at least 25 deaths and left many people dealing with cold temperatures.

Key Facts

  • A major winter storm affected large parts of the U.S.
  • Snow, sleet, and ice were widespread during the storm.
  • At least 25 people died due to the storm.
  • Causes of death included hypothermia and sledding accidents.
  • Many Americans are dealing with very cold weather.
  • Hundreds of thousands are without electricity.
  • Some areas might experience power outages for several days.

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Trump signals de-escalation of ICE ops in Minneapolis

Trump signals de-escalation of ICE ops in Minneapolis

Summary

President Trump spoke with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz about reducing federal immigration agents in Minneapolis. This discussion comes after calls for less federal presence following a recent incident involving the death of Alex Pretti. President Trump agreed to consider working more closely with state officials on immigration matters focusing on violent criminals.

Key Facts

  • President Trump discussed immigration enforcement in Minneapolis with Governor Tim Walz.
  • They talked about possibly reducing the number of federal immigration agents in the city.
  • The discussions followed the killing of Alex Pretti and increased calls for de-escalation.
  • Democrats and some Republicans have been calling for fewer ICE agents in Minneapolis.
  • There are currently about 3,000 federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.
  • President Trump plans to send Tom Homan, a key White House figure on immigration, to Minneapolis.
  • Tom Homan will report directly to President Trump about the situation.

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Tamara Keith and Amy Walter on Trump losing support over his immigration crackdown

Tamara Keith and Amy Walter on Trump losing support over his immigration crackdown

Summary

President Trump faces some disagreement within the Republican Party regarding the strict immigration policies his administration is enforcing. This has led to discussions and analysis by political experts on the implications for Trump's support within his party.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is enforcing strict immigration policies in the United States.
  • Some members of the Republican Party disagree with these immigration strategies.
  • Tamara Keith from NPR and Amy Walter from the Cook Political Report discussed the issue.
  • The topic was covered in a segment with Geoff Bennett.
  • The disagreement within the party may affect President Trump's support base.

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New Winter Storm Path Shows 'More Intense' One May Be on Its Way to US

New Winter Storm Path Shows 'More Intense' One May Be on Its Way to US

Summary

A new winter storm might hit the United States this weekend. Meteorologists have identified two possible paths for this storm. One path could lead to heavy snowfall in the Southeast, while the other might result in a nor'easter affecting areas from the Mid-Atlantic to New England.

Key Facts

  • A new winter storm is predicted to possibly strike the U.S. this weekend.
  • AccuWeather identifies two potential storm paths, one possibly more severe.
  • The first path could cause light snow from the Carolinas to New England.
  • The second path could turn the storm into a nor'easter with heavy snow in the Mid-Atlantic and New England.
  • Millions of Americans are still coping with the effects of Winter Storm Fern.
  • The National Weather Service is issuing early warnings for another potential storm.
  • Extremely cold temperatures are expected to hit the Southeast this weekend.
  • Meteorologists advise staying updated as the situation develops.

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Tressie McMillan Cottom joins Geoff Bennett for our 'Settle In' podcast

Tressie McMillan Cottom joins Geoff Bennett for our 'Settle In' podcast

Summary

Host Geoff Bennett discussed the loss of trust in institutions with sociologist Tressie McMillan Cottom on the "Settle In" podcast. They explored the impact of President Trump's administration on power dynamics in the U.S. and talked about finding hope amid challenging news.

Key Facts

  • The podcast is called "Settle In."
  • Geoff Bennett is the host of the podcast.
  • Tressie McMillan Cottom is a sociologist at the University of North Carolina.
  • Cottom is also a columnist for The New York Times.
  • They discussed the issue of losing trust in important societal institutions.
  • The conversation included insights into President Trump's effects on power structures in the U.S.
  • The talk also explored how people can maintain hope during difficult times.

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House Democrats' support for impeaching Kristi Noem surges after Minnesota shooting

House Democrats' support for impeaching Kristi Noem surges after Minnesota shooting

Summary

House Democrats are pushing to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem after a shooting in Minnesota. Over 60% of House Democrats are now supporting the impeachment. The effort gained support quickly after the shooting death of Alex Pretti.

Key Facts

  • House Democrats are moving to impeach Secretary Kristi Noem following Alex Pretti's shooting.
  • More than 133 of the 213 voting House Democrats support the impeachment.
  • The push for impeachment started after a previous fatal shooting involving Renee Good.
  • High-profile Democrats like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are backing the effort.
  • Republicans have not yet supported the impeachment articles.
  • The impeachment articles accuse Noem of obstructing Congress and self-dealing.
  • Some Democrats suggest responding by traveling to Minneapolis or shutting down the government.
  • Noem’s department, DHS, called the impeachment articles "silly" and encouraged lawmakers to focus on local crime.

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Trump’s ICE Crackdown Turns Immigration Enforcement Into GOP Problem

Trump’s ICE Crackdown Turns Immigration Enforcement Into GOP Problem

Summary

President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement actions have recently become controversial within the Republican Party. This follows incidents in Minneapolis, where two deaths connected to ICE operations led to public backlash and calls for government accountability. The debate around ICE's practices has caused a split among Republicans and a decline in public support for the agency.

Key Facts

  • Two incidents in Minneapolis involving ICE resulted in the deaths of Renee Good during a raid and Alex Pretti during a protest.
  • Videos of the incidents have caused national attention and criticism, including from Republicans.
  • Some GOP members, like Senator Susan Collins, are calling for reviews of ICE operations.
  • Public support for abolishing ICE has increased, with a YouGov poll showing 46% in favor.
  • Another poll showed 57% of Americans disapprove of ICE's methods.
  • President Donald Trump has discussed possibly reducing ICE presence in Minneapolis.
  • The White House has shifted its strategy, appointing Tom Homan to lead operations on the ground.

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Republican Senator Warns Kristi Noem’s Actions ‘Undermine Public Trust’

Republican Senator Warns Kristi Noem’s Actions ‘Undermine Public Trust’

Summary

Republican Senator John Curtis expressed concern that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem harmed public trust by reacting too soon to a shooting involving a Border Patrol officer. Curtis emphasized the need for a full and independent investigation before drawing conclusions. He stated that early comments like Noem's can weaken confidence in law enforcement.

Key Facts

  • Senator John Curtis is from Utah.
  • He criticized Kristi Noem’s quick response to a shooting in Minnesota.
  • Noem is the Secretary of Homeland Security.
  • Curtis believes Noem’s statement came too soon, without all facts.
  • He called for an independent investigation into the incident.
  • Curtis stressed the importance of accountability regardless of position.
  • The shooting involved a Border Patrol officer.

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Kyle Rittenhouse Addresses Comparisons to Alex Pretti

Kyle Rittenhouse Addresses Comparisons to Alex Pretti

Summary

Kyle Rittenhouse spoke out against being likened to Alex Pretti, a man shot by a federal agent in Minneapolis. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) received criticism for its operations, especially after the shooting of Pretti, who was reportedly unarmed when shot according to some videos. The situation has sparked comments from politicians and public figures relating to how the law treats armed individuals differently.

Key Facts

  • Kyle Rittenhouse disagreed with comparisons to Alex Pretti.
  • Alex Pretti was a 37-year-old man fatally shot by a federal agent during protests in Minneapolis.
  • The Department of Homeland Security claimed Pretti had a gun, but some videos show him unarmed.
  • Rittenhouse was acquitted of charges related to a 2020 shooting during protests in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
  • Hakeem Jeffries, a U.S. Representative, compared Pretti's shooting to Rittenhouse's case.
  • The National Rifle Association criticized a comment by a federal prosecutor about legality in such shootings.
  • The Trump administration's handling of the Pretti shooting faced criticism from gun rights groups.

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Supreme Court Decision Could Change Ruling in Murder Case

Supreme Court Decision Could Change Ruling in Murder Case

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court has sent a murder restitution case back to Michigan's Supreme Court for reconsideration, impacting how restitution is applied in cases where laws changed after the crime took place. The decision relates to whether ordered payments, or restitution, count as criminal punishment under laws made after the crime. This follows a similar decision where a 1996 law was found to impose criminal punishment.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court is reconsidering a Michigan case about restitution in a murder conviction.
  • The case is William E. Neilly v. Michigan.
  • Neilly was sentenced to life without parole in 1993 for murder and related charges.
  • He was resentenced to 35-60 years and released on parole in 2024.
  • The court ordered Neilly to pay nearly $15,000 for the victim's funeral expenses.
  • Restitution became mandatory in Michigan after Neilly's original sentence.
  • Neilly argues this violates the Ex Post Facto Clause, which prevents punishment using laws passed after the crime.
  • The Supreme Court's decision references a similar case, Ellingburg v. United States, from earlier this month.

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WATCH: White House discusses sending Homan to Minneapolis as Bovino expected to leave

WATCH: White House discusses sending Homan to Minneapolis as Bovino expected to leave

Summary

President Trump plans to send Tom Homan, a border czar, to Minnesota to lead Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities. Meanwhile, Greg Bovino, a senior Border Patrol commander, is expected to leave Minneapolis soon.

Key Facts

  • Tom Homan is being sent to Minnesota to lead ICE operations.
  • Greg Bovino, a Border Patrol commander, is expected to leave Minneapolis.
  • This move is part of President Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts.
  • President Trump has focused on increasing immigration control in various cities.
  • The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, commented on this in a video.

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Rand Paul Asks Trump Officials to Testify to Justify Immigration Funding

Rand Paul Asks Trump Officials to Testify to Justify Immigration Funding

Summary

Senator Rand Paul has asked leaders of three U.S. immigration agencies to testify about how they use taxpayer money. This request comes after concerns arose following two fatal shootings in Minneapolis involving federal immigration officers. There is potential for a government shutdown if Democrats block funding for the Department of Homeland Security.

Key Facts

  • Senator Rand Paul wants immigration agency leaders to testify about funding use.
  • The agencies involved are ICE, CBP, and USCIS.
  • The call for testimony follows two fatal shootings in Minneapolis involving federal officers.
  • Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer mentioned Democrats might block DHS funding.
  • A blocked funding could lead to a partial government shutdown.
  • President Trump and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz discussed the shootings and potential collaboration.
  • Three federal reviews of the shootings are underway by DHS, FBI, and CBP.
  • Rand Paul chairs the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

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David Hogg's PAC backs primary challenger to Rep. Stephen Lynch

David Hogg's PAC backs primary challenger to Rep. Stephen Lynch

Summary

David Hogg's political action committee, Leaders We Deserve, is supporting Patrick Roath, who is challenging Congressman Stephen Lynch in a primary election. Hogg believes Roath is a better fit than Lynch, who has been criticized for his past votes on issues like gay rights and healthcare.

Key Facts

  • David Hogg founded the PAC called Leaders We Deserve.
  • The PAC is endorsing Patrick Roath against Rep. Stephen Lynch in the primary.
  • Stephen Lynch is a Massachusetts Democrat who first entered Congress in 2001.
  • Lynch has faced criticism from progressives due to past votes against certain rights issues.
  • Patrick Roath is a 38-year-old attorney.
  • Roath's campaign out-raised Lynch's by more than double from July to September of last year.
  • Stephen Lynch's campaign did not comment on the situation immediately.

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Greg Bovino and Border Patrol Agents Expected to Leave Minneapolis

Greg Bovino and Border Patrol Agents Expected to Leave Minneapolis

Summary

Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino and several agents plan to leave Minneapolis on Tuesday to return to their usual work areas. President Donald Trump is sending Tom Homan, a federal immigration enforcement leader, to Minnesota due to recent unrest and immigration-related issues.

Key Facts

  • Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol Chief, and several agents will leave Minneapolis soon.
  • President Trump announced that Tom Homan will be sent to Minnesota.
  • This move occurs amid recent unrest and violence in Minnesota.
  • Minnesota is facing a fraud scandal connected to its Somali community.
  • The U.S. federal government is increasing immigration enforcement efforts in Minnesota.
  • The information was reported by reliable news agencies, including CNN and Reuters.

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A second U.S. citizen was killed by federal forces in Minneapolis. Here's what we know

A second U.S. citizen was killed by federal forces in Minneapolis. Here's what we know

Summary

Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen, was killed by federal immigration agents in Minnesota. This incident has increased public concern about the tactics used by these agents and led to calls for a thorough investigation.

Key Facts

  • Alex Pretti was killed by federal immigration officers in Minnesota.
  • This is the second case of a U.S. citizen being killed by federal forces in the state this month.
  • The shooting happened on a Saturday.
  • Public concern has grown about the methods used by federal agents.
  • State and local officials are demanding an investigation into the incident.
  • Officials are also asking to stop President Trump's ongoing federal operation in the state.

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ICE Agents Are an 'Undisciplined Militia,' Says Retired US General

ICE Agents Are an 'Undisciplined Militia,' Says Retired US General

Summary

Retired General Mark Hertling criticized the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after an incident where ICE agents killed an ICU nurse, Alex Pretti, in Minneapolis. General Hertling described ICE as undisciplined and poorly led, comparing them to a militia rather than military or police.

Key Facts

  • Retired U.S. General Mark Hertling spoke out against ICE operations.
  • ICE agents killed an ICU nurse named Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.
  • Hertling shared his views on the show "Morning Joe" on MS Now.
  • He criticized ICE for lacking discipline and effective leadership.
  • Hertling argued that ICE functions more like an undisciplined militia.
  • He noted that ICE's actions do not align with military or police work.

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Trump’s second term: ‘Reality has overtaken satire’

Trump’s second term: ‘Reality has overtaken satire’

Summary

One year into his second term, President Donald Trump is making bold moves both internationally and domestically. His actions include significant foreign policy decisions and strict immigration measures within the United States. These policies have led to discussions about the extent of his executive power and their impact on the upcoming midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump is in his second term as U.S. President.
  • His administration has reportedly been involved in the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
  • President Trump has made threats towards Iran and expressed interest in controlling Greenland.
  • Domestically, the administration is enforcing strict immigration policies.
  • There are reports of expanded anti-immigration actions and alleged racial profiling.
  • Some U.S. citizens and legal residents have been reportedly affected by these immigration measures.
  • The U.S. economy is currently unstable, raising questions about President Trump's policies.
  • Trump's approval ratings are declining as the November midterm elections approach.

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Fox News Host Pushes Back on Trump Admin's Alex Pretti Narrative

Fox News Host Pushes Back on Trump Admin's Alex Pretti Narrative

Summary

A Fox News host, Trey Gowdy, criticized the Trump administration's description of Alex Pretti, who was killed by Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis. The administration labeled Pretti a terrorist, but Gowdy said there is no evidence supporting that claim. The incident has sparked debates on gun rights and the role of ICE in the U.S.

Key Facts

  • Alex Pretti was shot by Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis on Saturday.
  • The Department of Homeland Security claimed Pretti approached officers with a gun.
  • Trey Gowdy, a Fox News host, disagrees with labeling Pretti as a terrorist.
  • Videos and witnesses suggest Pretti was holding a phone, not a weapon.
  • Pretti had a permit to carry a concealed gun in Minnesota.
  • The incident has led to discussions about ICE operations and gun rights.
  • Pretti was an intensive care nurse and participated in protests against ICE.
  • Pretti's father stated he was deeply concerned with ICE's actions.

Source Verification

Minnesota crisis plays out in court Monday amid shooting unrest

Minnesota crisis plays out in court Monday amid shooting unrest

Summary

On Monday, two court cases in Minnesota will address federal immigration actions and the investigation into the death of Alex Pretti, a nurse shot by an immigration agent. The state is challenging the Trump administration's immigration enforcement and pushing for access to evidence in Pretti's case.

Key Facts

  • Two court hearings on Monday will examine President Trump's immigration actions in Minnesota.
  • Recent incidents involve federal immigration agents shooting and killing two Minnesota citizens.
  • State and local officials claim the federal immigration surge violates the Tenth Amendment.
  • A lawsuit does not aim to stop all immigration enforcement, just the recent increased activity.
  • The federal government defends its actions and calls the state's arguments absurd.
  • Judge Katherine Menendez will hear arguments about the constitutionality of the immigration actions.
  • A separate case involves the preservation of evidence in the shooting of Alex Pretti.
  • A judge temporarily blocked the destruction of evidence related to Pretti's death.

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