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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Report: Iran has caused billions in damage to US military bases in Gulf region

Report: Iran has caused billions in damage to US military bases in Gulf region

Summary

Iran has reportedly caused billions of dollars in damage to U.S. military bases and equipment in the Gulf region. This has raised questions about how much the Trump administration has shared about the costs to repair the damage.

Key Facts

  • Damage was done to U.S. military bases and assets in the Gulf region.
  • The damage includes runways, radar systems, aircraft, warehouses, command centers, hangars, and satellite communication systems.
  • The cost of the damage is estimated to be in the billions of dollars.
  • Six people familiar with the situation provided these details.
  • There are concerns about how openly the Trump administration has reported the repair costs.
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White House Correspondents' Dinner attack suspect is tutor and computer programmer from California

White House Correspondents' Dinner attack suspect is tutor and computer programmer from California

Summary

Cole Tomas Allen, a man from California, was arrested for the shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. He is described as a tutor and an amateur video game developer with a master’s degree in computer science.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the White House Correspondents' Dinner.
  • Cole Tomas Allen is from Torrance, California.
  • He was arrested on Saturday following the incident.
  • Social media posts link Allen to the attack.
  • A LinkedIn photo from May 2025 shows Allen in a cap and gown.
  • He earned a master’s degree in computer science from California State University-Dominguez Hills.
  • Allen works as a tutor and does amateur video game development.
  • President Donald Trump posted a photo of Allen being taken into custody.
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Florida is latest US state to enter redistricting war ahead of 2026 election

Florida is latest US state to enter redistricting war ahead of 2026 election

Summary

Florida has started a special session to redraw congressional district maps before the 2026 election. Republicans aim to gain more seats, but the process is uncertain and may face legal challenges due to state and federal rules against unfair redistricting.

Key Facts

  • Florida lawmakers began a special session to consider new district maps to influence the 2026 election.
  • No proposed map was shared before the session; the governor’s office is expected to present a draft.
  • Florida currently has 20 Republican and 8 Democratic representatives in Congress.
  • Three Republican-held districts are seen as vulnerable to Democratic challenges.
  • A U.S. Supreme Court ruling on a Voting Rights Act case could affect redistricting rules but has not been issued yet.
  • Redrawing districts to gain seats is difficult and may risk losing current Republican districts.
  • Democratic leaders have warned they will actively oppose Florida’s redistricting efforts.
  • Any new map must follow Florida’s Fair Districts amendment, which bans political gerrymandering, and may face lawsuits.
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Blanche says authorities believe suspect was targeting Trump admin. officials

Blanche says authorities believe suspect was targeting Trump admin. officials

Summary

An armed man tried to enter the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner in Washington, D.C., where President Trump and other top officials were attending. Authorities believe the suspect was targeting members of President Trump's administration, but no one was seriously hurt.

Key Facts

  • The suspect, 31-year-old Cole Allen from California, was armed with a shotgun, handgun, and knives.
  • He attempted to pass a security checkpoint outside the dinner, held at the Washington Hilton hotel.
  • President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Cabinet members were quickly moved to safety.
  • One Secret Service agent was shot but protected by a bulletproof vest and survived.
  • The suspect traveled by train from Los Angeles to Chicago, then to Washington, D.C.
  • The suspect is not cooperating with investigators, who are still trying to understand his motives.
  • He faces at least two federal charges: using a firearm during a violent crime and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.
  • Authorities continue to explore other possible charges depending on evidence about his intentions.
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"Massive security success story": Blanche praises shooting response

"Massive security success story": Blanche praises shooting response

Summary

The Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche praised law enforcement for quickly stopping a gunman who tried to get inside the White House Correspondents' Dinner event. The suspect was caught just before reaching the perimeter, and officials called the response a strong success despite ongoing security challenges.

Key Facts

  • A man tried to shoot at the White House Correspondents' Dinner but was stopped quickly by law enforcement.
  • The suspect was apprehended just feet from breaching the event's perimeter.
  • Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche described the situation as a “massive security success story.”
  • The Secret Service has faced criticism earlier in 2024 for security lapses during attempts on President Trump’s life.
  • Another assassination attempt on President Trump happened at his Florida golf course weeks before the dinner incident.
  • Law enforcement officials say this event shows they acted on their training to keep people safe.
  • Experts note that some places, like hotels, are hard to fully secure because the public can enter easily without bag checks.
  • Officials believe more improvements are needed to protect such public locations.
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This isn't the time to change gun laws, acting AG Blanche says

This isn't the time to change gun laws, acting AG Blanche says

Summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said that tightening gun laws is not the right response to the recent shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. He emphasized that changing current gun laws or making them more restrictive should not be the focus at this time.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday night.
  • The shooter, Cole Allen, a teacher from southern California, brought multiple legally purchased firearms.
  • Allen traveled by train to Washington, possibly to avoid security checks that are common at airports.
  • Acting Attorney General Blanche does not want to change or tighten gun laws because of this event.
  • Blanche rejected the idea that train travel without security checks is a loophole needing closure.
  • Authorities are still investigating and serving search warrants related to Allen.
  • Allen is expected to face charges on Monday.
  • Blanche’s position contrasts with earlier Republican calls for more gun restrictions after a different shooting in Minneapolis.
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Blanche says authorities believe correspondents' dinner suspect was targeting administration

Blanche says authorities believe correspondents' dinner suspect was targeting administration

Summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said that police are investigating the person who allegedly tried to attack the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Officials think the suspect was aiming at members of President Donald Trump’s administration.

Key Facts

  • The suspect was involved in an incident related to the White House Correspondents' Dinner.
  • Law enforcement officials are still trying to understand the suspect’s exact motive.
  • Authorities believe the suspect targeted officials from President Trump’s administration.
  • Todd Blanche is the Acting Attorney General giving the update.
  • The information was shared on the show "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan."
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GOP backs controversial White House ballroom after shooting

GOP backs controversial White House ballroom after shooting

Summary

A shooting at the White House Correspondents' dinner led Republicans to support President Donald Trump's plan for a new White House ballroom with a secure underground bunker. The project has faced criticism and legal challenges but President Trump and his supporters argue it would improve security for events at the White House.

Key Facts

  • A suspect fired multiple shotgun rounds Saturday night at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' dinner.
  • No Trump administration officials were hurt, but they may have been the target of the shooting.
  • President Trump promotes building a $400 million ballroom with a top-security underground bunker at the White House.
  • The ballroom project has been blocked by courts and criticized by preservationists, Democrats, and some Republicans.
  • Supporters say the new ballroom will protect events better, pointing to past use of the Presidential Emergency Operations Center during crises.
  • The ballroom would replace the current emergency center, which was built during World War II and used during events like 9/11 and the 2020 protests.
  • Construction above ground continues until a court hearing scheduled for June.
  • The project has attracted controversy over secret donors and concerns about altering the historic White House structure.
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Four Security Questions Over White House Dinner Shooting

Four Security Questions Over White House Dinner Shooting

Summary

A man opened fire at the White House Correspondents' Dinner in Washington, D.C., but was stopped quickly by the Secret Service and law enforcement. President Donald Trump praised their response, and the suspect was taken into custody and faces serious charges.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the White House Correspondents' Dinner on a Saturday night.
  • President Trump and Vice President JD Vance were present and were quickly evacuated by agents.
  • The alleged shooter carried multiple weapons and was stopped at the first security checkpoint.
  • One Secret Service agent was shot but survived due to a bulletproof vest and was released from the hospital.
  • The suspect, named by media as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen, is facing charges including assault on federal officers with a dangerous weapon.
  • Preliminary investigations suggest the shooter was targeting administration officials, including President Trump.
  • Questions have been raised about the security measures at the event, such as the lack of scanners at the ballroom entrance and guest vetting.
  • The incident adds to ongoing concerns about politically-motivated violence and the adequacy of Secret Service protections.
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Farewell to correspondent Elizabeth Palmer

Farewell to correspondent Elizabeth Palmer

Summary

Elizabeth Palmer, a longtime CBS News correspondent and contributor to "Sunday Morning," is retiring after many years of reporting. She has covered many important global stories and won Emmy Awards for her work on art-related pieces.

Key Facts

  • Elizabeth Palmer has worked for CBS News for decades.
  • She contributed to the program "Sunday Morning."
  • Palmer reported from many global locations and covered a wide range of stories.
  • Some of her reports related to art won Emmy Awards.
  • She is now retiring from her journalism career.
  • Jane Pauley from CBS News said farewell to her.
  • CBS News shared a tribute video for her retirement.
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Blanche says Trump's public appearances won't change because of this "lone man"

Blanche says Trump's public appearances won't change because of this "lone man"

Summary

A man fired shots at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner but did not injure anyone. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said this attack will not stop President Trump and his team from making public appearances and doing their jobs.

Key Facts

  • The attack happened at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner.
  • President Trump and Vice President JD Vance were quickly taken away by law enforcement for safety.
  • Other officials and members of Congress hid under tables during the shooting.
  • The suspect is 31-year-old Cole Allen, who is believed to have targeted Trump administration officials.
  • Allen faces at least two charges: using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer.
  • More charges may be added depending on his motives and actions.
  • Acting Attorney General Blanche said the president and government officials will continue their public duties.
  • The suspect is expected to appear in court the day after the attack.
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Trump officials believed to be WHCD gunman's target, acting AG says

Trump officials believed to be WHCD gunman's target, acting AG says

Summary

A gunman opened fire outside the White House Correspondents' Association dinner, causing President Donald Trump to be quickly evacuated. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the shooter likely planned to target members of President Trump’s administration, but security stopped him before he got inside.

Key Facts

  • The gunman is 31 years old and fired shots outside a hotel ballroom during the dinner.
  • President Trump was inside the event but was not in immediate danger and was evacuated quickly.
  • Authorities believe the shooter traveled by train from California to Chicago, then to Washington, D.C.
  • The gunman checked into the hotel on the Friday before the shooting.
  • Law enforcement and the Secret Service stopped the attacker before he entered the event area.
  • The motive of the gunman is still under investigation.
  • Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the security system worked effectively to protect officials.
  • This incident adds to recent security threats against President Trump.
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The long history of America's conflict with Cuba

The long history of America's conflict with Cuba

Summary

President Donald Trump mentioned possible future actions involving Cuba while discussing the war in Iran. The U.S. has imposed strong restrictions on oil shipments to Cuba, worsening the island's economy, as talks between the two countries continue. Cuba has had a tense relationship with the U.S. for almost 70 years due to its communist government and past U.S. influence over the island.

Key Facts

  • President Trump said he might visit Cuba after dealing with Iran.
  • The U.S. has blocked nearly all oil shipments to Cuba, pushing its economy toward collapse.
  • High-level talks between the U.S. and Cuba are ongoing but details are limited.
  • Cuba is located about 90 miles from Florida and has been a focus of U.S. foreign policy for nearly 70 years.
  • Before the 1959 revolution, Cuba was seen by many Americans as a place of casinos and parties.
  • Many Cubans were unhappy because the U.S. controlled much of their economy.
  • The late Fidel Castro took power in 1959 and established a communist dictatorship that lasted decades.
  • Over 1.5 million Cubans have left the island for the U.S. since the 1960s due to political and economic issues.
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Next: Cuba?

Next: Cuba?

Summary

The Trump administration is blocking almost all oil shipments to Cuba, which is worsening the humanitarian situation there. The U.S. has had a long history of involvement with Cuba, and tensions continue even after the death of Fidel Castro.

Key Facts

  • Cuba is a small island nation located about 90 miles from Florida.
  • The U.S. has had a major role in Cuba's affairs for nearly 70 years.
  • President Trump’s administration has stopped nearly all oil shipments to Cuba.
  • This action is making the humanitarian crisis in Cuba worse.
  • President Trump has said he will be "taking Cuba," hinting at stronger actions.
  • Historical tensions between the U.S. and Cuba have lasted beyond Fidel Castro’s rule.
  • A history professor discussed past U.S. interventions in Cuba on CBS News.
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What we know about the suspect in the White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting

What we know about the suspect in the White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting

Summary

A man named Cole Allen, from Torrance, California, opened fire near the White House Correspondents' Dinner in Washington, D.C., on April 25, 2026. He was captured by law enforcement after an exchange of gunfire, and President Donald Trump and others were inside the event at the time.

Key Facts

  • The suspect is 31-year-old Cole Allen, a trained mechanical engineer who worked as a tutor.
  • He traveled across the country, apparently to cause as much harm as possible.
  • Allen carried a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives when he approached the event security checkpoint.
  • He fired shots and was tackled by police after the exchange of gunfire.
  • A Secret Service agent was shot but protected by a vest and is in good condition.
  • Allen is being charged with using a firearm during a violent crime and assault on a federal officer.
  • Authorities are still investigating his motive and whether President Trump was specifically targeted.
  • Allen was injured during his arrest and taken to the hospital; he is expected to recover.
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Washington shaken by shooting at White House press dinner

Washington shaken by shooting at White House press dinner

Summary

During the White House Correspondents Association dinner in Washington, shots were fired outside the ballroom where President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and other officials were present. The police detained a 31-year-old man named Cole Allen from Torrance, California.

Key Facts

  • The event was the White House Correspondents Association dinner in Washington, D.C.
  • Shots were heard outside the ballroom where the dinner took place.
  • President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were attending the event.
  • Cole Allen, 31 years old from Torrance, California, was identified and detained by law enforcement.
  • Secret Service agents responded quickly, sweeping through the area.
  • CBS News correspondent Tony Dokoupil was present at the event.
  • No further information about injuries or motive was provided in the report.
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Transcript: Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," April 26, 2026

Transcript: Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," April 26, 2026

Summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche discussed an ongoing investigation into an alleged shooter who targeted members of the administration at a Washington, DC hotel. The suspect, who traveled from California and carried multiple weapons, was stopped by the Secret Service before breaching security, and investigators are still gathering evidence and determining motives.

Key Facts

  • The FBI, Secret Service, and local law enforcement are investigating an alleged shooter at a DC hotel.
  • The suspect is believed to have stayed in the hotel for several days prior to the event.
  • He traveled by train from Los Angeles to Chicago, then to Washington, DC.
  • The suspect carried a shotgun, handgun, and multiple knives when approaching the hotel security checkpoint.
  • The Secret Service stopped the shooter just feet from breaking the security perimeter.
  • Authorities are still reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses to understand the suspect’s motives.
  • The suspect is expected to be formally charged in federal court tomorrow.
  • Officials are assessing current security protocols and considering possible changes, such as increased checks on trains.
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White House journalists’ gala ended like many US events do: with gun violence

White House journalists’ gala ended like many US events do: with gun violence

Summary

At the White House correspondents’ dinner, gunshots were fired near the ballroom where President Trump, cabinet members, and journalists were gathered. A man was arrested, but details about him and his motives are not yet clear. The event was stopped and will be rescheduled.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the Washington Hilton, the same hotel where President Reagan was shot in 1981.
  • The gunman was outside the ballroom with President Trump and other officials inside.
  • President Trump called the shooter a “lone” gunman but gave few details.
  • After gunshots, people hid under tables and security cleared the room.
  • The dinner was initially planned to continue but was later canceled.
  • President Trump held a press conference and said he would hold a lighter event later.
  • Political and gun violence against politicians and public figures in the US is increasing.
  • Some states now allow elected officials to use campaign funds for security due to rising threats.
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Congress must deliver substantive health care reform in 2026

Congress must deliver substantive health care reform in 2026

Summary

Congress is working on health care reform to reduce rising costs. Some lawmakers want to shift money away from insurance companies and hospitals to help patients directly.

Key Facts

  • Lawmakers are focused on lowering health care costs.
  • There is a proposal to give more money to patients rather than insurance companies or hospitals.
  • The group Fund The Patient supports this idea.
  • Fund The Patient recently conducted a poll about health care reform.
  • The goal is to make health care more affordable for patients.
  • This effort is planned for progress by the year 2026.
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Suspected gunman was likely targeting White House officials at press dinner, acting attorney general says

Suspected gunman was likely targeting White House officials at press dinner, acting attorney general says

Summary

A man tried to break into a ballroom at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner in Washington, DC, where President Donald Trump and other officials were present. The gunman was stopped and arrested, with authorities saying he was likely targeting Trump administration members and that a federal agent was injured but survived.

Key Facts

  • The gunman attempted to enter the ballroom during the White House press dinner in Washington, DC.
  • President Donald Trump was on stage and was quickly taken to safety by Secret Service agents after gunshots were heard.
  • The suspect traveled from California to Washington, DC, and stayed at the hotel hosting the event.
  • A federal agent was shot but protected by a bulletproof vest and was released from the hospital.
  • The suspect is charged with assaulting a federal officer, discharging a firearm, and attempted murder of a federal officer.
  • The gunman is not believed to be cooperating with investigators.
  • The suspect is expected to appear in federal court in Washington on Monday.
  • Other members of the Trump administration, like JD Vance, were also evacuated safely.
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