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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

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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Who is the suspect in the WHCA dinner shooting?

Who is the suspect in the WHCA dinner shooting?

Summary

Cole Allen is the suspect in a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents Association dinner held at the Washington Hilton Hotel. He faces two charges: using a gun during a violent crime and assault, and he is expected to appear in court on Monday.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the annual White House Correspondents Association dinner.
  • The location of the incident was the Washington Hilton Hotel.
  • Cole Allen has been named as the suspect.
  • Multiple news outlets have reported on Allen's identification.
  • He faces two preliminary charges: using a firearm during a violent crime and assault.
  • He is scheduled for arraignment, a court appearance, on Monday.
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Councillor apologises for telling call handler to speak English

Councillor apologises for telling call handler to speak English

Summary

A Newport City councillor, Janet Cleverly, apologized after telling a council call handler to "speak English" during a phone call about illegal dumping. An investigation found her comments were inappropriate and discriminatory, and she must complete extra training as a result.

Key Facts

  • Councillor Janet Cleverly made the comments while reporting fly-tipping to Newport City Council.
  • The call handler tried to explain there were "disruptive sounds" on the line and asked Cleverly to repeat information.
  • Cleverly said, "I'm sorry, can I speak to somebody who's speaking English?" and later repeated, "Speak English."
  • A manager reviewed the call recording and raised concerns about Cleverly's tone and language.
  • The council’s monitoring officer said the call handler’s English was fluent and that Cleverly’s comments were discriminatory and possibly racially motivated.
  • The call handler felt upset but withdrew from the investigation.
  • Cleverly apologized, said she did not intend to offend, and described the call as a "really bad line."
  • The council's standards committee found Cleverly breached the code of conduct on equality, respect, and disreputable behavior.
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How the White House Correspondents' Dinner and response unfolded

How the White House Correspondents' Dinner and response unfolded

Summary

During the White House Correspondents' Association dinner at the Washington Hilton, a man armed with two guns and knives tried to pass a Secret Service checkpoint. Law enforcement stopped the man before he could reach President Trump and the 2,600 guests inside. A Secret Service officer was hit by a bullet but protected by a vest, and the event was quickly locked down.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner.
  • A man with two firearms and knives ran through a Secret Service metal detector.
  • About 2,600 guests, including President Trump and Vice President Vance, were inside the ballroom.
  • The man was stopped by law enforcement before reaching the main event area.
  • A Secret Service officer was shot but protected by a bulletproof vest and was not seriously injured.
  • Gunshots were heard and smelled by guests, especially those near the back of the room.
  • Security quickly responded, escorting President Trump, first lady Melania Trump, Vice President Vance, and others to safety.
  • The attacker was pursued and stopped by Secret Service and other officers outside the ballroom.
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Suspected gunman at White House press dinner named as Cole Tomas Allen

Suspected gunman at White House press dinner named as Cole Tomas Allen

Summary

Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from Torrance, California, was arrested after trying to enter the White House correspondents’ dinner in Washington DC armed with weapons. Law enforcement stopped him near the event, and an officer wearing a bulletproof vest was hurt but has been released from the hospital. The suspect faces charges and was in custody with no evidence of others involved.

Key Facts

  • The suspect is Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from Torrance, California.
  • He was arrested at the Washington Hilton during the White House correspondents’ dinner.
  • Allen was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and knives.
  • He ran past a Secret Service checkpoint before being stopped by agents who opened fire.
  • The suspect was tackled and was not hit by gunfire during the arrest.
  • One officer was shot but was wearing a bulletproof vest and was released from the hospital.
  • The suspect has no prior criminal or civil record in Los Angeles County.
  • He faces two charges and will be arraigned soon; more charges may be added.
  • Authorities are searching his home in California, and there is no known motive yet.
  • Officials say there is no indication that anyone else was involved.
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World leaders react to WHCA dinner shooting

World leaders react to WHCA dinner shooting

Summary

An armed man interrupted the White House Correspondents Association dinner on Saturday night. The event was quickly secured by law enforcement after exchanging gunfire with the attacker, while President Trump, the first lady, journalists, and guests found safety.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened during the annual White House Correspondents Association dinner.
  • An armed man caused the disruption.
  • President Trump and the first lady were evacuated for safety.
  • Journalists and attendees took cover under tables during the event.
  • Law enforcement officers exchanged gunfire with the gunman.
  • The attacker was subdued by law enforcement.
  • The incident prompted reactions from world leaders.
  • President Trump made a statement on the situation on Saturday.
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Washington hotel shooting raises questions about Trump security

Washington hotel shooting raises questions about Trump security

Summary

A shooting at the Washington Hilton hotel during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner raised concerns about President Donald Trump's security. The suspect, Cole Tomas Allen, was stopped by Secret Service before reaching the ballroom where the president and other officials were present.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the Washington Hilton hotel during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner.
  • Suspect Cole Tomas Allen carried a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives.
  • Allen was a hotel guest and got past some security checkpoints before being confronted.
  • The Secret Service exchanged gunfire with Allen and stopped him before he entered the main ballroom.
  • President Trump praised the Secret Service for their quick response and bravery.
  • The incident raised questions about the level of security at the hotel, which hosted many important politicians and journalists.
  • President Trump described the Hilton as "not a particularly secure building" and highlighted plans for a new, more secure White House ballroom.
  • Law enforcement experts said the response showed that Secret Service training worked as intended.
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US is taking a ‘real risk’ with hasty shift in efforts to fight HIV, experts say

US is taking a ‘real risk’ with hasty shift in efforts to fight HIV, experts say

Summary

The US government is changing how it fights HIV globally by moving away from the Pepfar program to individual agreements with countries. Experts worry this quick change might reduce the quality and amount of HIV testing and treatment, possibly causing setbacks in the effort to end the HIV epidemic.

Key Facts

  • Pepfar (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) has been a key US global HIV program for over 20 years.
  • The chief scientific officer of Pepfar resigned shortly after the government’s latest report.
  • HIV treatment numbers worldwide are steady at about 20.3 million people, but HIV testing dropped by 17%, and prevention usage (PrEP) fell by 33%.
  • The number of healthcare workers supporting HIV services decreased by 24%.
  • Services for infants, including HIV testing and diagnosis, have sharply declined, raising concerns due to high death rates among infants with HIV.
  • Pediatric HIV treatment dropped from about 643,000 in 2022 to around 509,000 in 2025; testing also decreased significantly.
  • The State Department blames declines partly on program successes, but experts worry infections might be going undetected.
  • The US is moving from Pepfar’s detailed data reporting to separate agreements with countries, which may limit the ability to track progress.
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Pete Hegseth’s Iran war messaging echoes sermons from his extremist church

Pete Hegseth’s Iran war messaging echoes sermons from his extremist church

Summary

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth compared the U.S. press to Pharisees from the Bible during a briefing on the Iran war, reflecting themes from a sermon he apparently attended at his church. The church, part of the Christian Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC), promotes a conservative religious agenda and has growing influence in the U.S. military and Trump administration.

Key Facts

  • Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense, likened the U.S. press to Pharisees, accusing them of political bias against President Trump.
  • Hegseth’s comments drew from a recent sermon at his church, Christ Kirk DC, a branch of the Christian Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC).
  • The CREC promotes Christian nationalist views, including restricting voting rights and applying biblical laws in courts.
  • CREC founder Douglas Wilson confirms Hegseth shares similar worldviews and identifies as a Christian nationalist.
  • CREC-linked sermons include calls for “biblically informed hatred” and promote conservative political goals.
  • Christ Kirk DC meets on property owned by the Conservative Partnership Institute, a Trump-aligned group.
  • The Pentagon and Hegseth’s office declined to confirm his attendance at the sermon.
  • CREC leaders acknowledge political implications of their religious teachings but avoid direct confirmation of Hegseth’s participation.
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Gen Z isn't a monolith — and the data shows it

Gen Z isn't a monolith — and the data shows it

Summary

Research shows Generation Z is actually two groups split by the COVID-19 pandemic, with different views and voting patterns. The older half grew up before the pandemic and tends to lean more Democratic, while the younger half, shaped by pandemic experiences, is more politically divided and less trusting of institutions.

Key Facts

  • Generation Z can be divided into Gen Z 1.0 (graduated before COVID-19) and Gen Z 2.0 (graduated after the pandemic).
  • Gen Z 1.0 grew up without TikTok and during events like Black Lives Matter protests.
  • Gen Z 2.0 experienced masking, quarantines, and remote learning during formative years.
  • A 2026 Yale poll found 52% of voters aged 18–22 favor Democrats, a shift from a year earlier when they leaned Republican.
  • Young men aged 18–22 are the only subgroup shifting away from Democrats.
  • The shift right was linked to frustration and rebellion rather than strong conservative beliefs.
  • The younger Gen Z is less trusting of journalists, CEOs, and even other consumers.
  • Pandemic-related decisions by leaders caused distrust among the younger Gen Z.
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Trump has taken the ‘public’ out of public servant

Trump has taken the ‘public’ out of public servant

Summary

President Donald Trump is changing the federal government workforce by focusing on loyalty rather than skills, experience, or knowledge. This marks a shift in how employees are chosen and managed in government jobs.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is reshaping the federal workforce.
  • He prioritizes loyalty in hiring and management.
  • Merit, experience, and expertise are less emphasized.
  • This change affects how government jobs are awarded.
  • The approach changes traditional government hiring practices.
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Voters contend with ‘grotesque’ leaflets and ‘dodgy’ data in English elections

Voters contend with ‘grotesque’ leaflets and ‘dodgy’ data in English elections

Summary

Leaflets used in the upcoming May elections in England often include misleading or unsupported information about how to vote tactically. An investigation found many of these leaflets use unreliable data and charts that do not accurately reflect local voting chances, potentially confusing voters.

Key Facts

  • Election leaflets claim that only one party can win or that others cannot win, without good evidence.
  • Full Fact, a fact-checking group, analyzed 331 leaflets; 59 had charts or graphics, and 14 were misleading or lacked reliable data.
  • Some leaflets used national or large-area polling data that does not reflect local election areas.
  • A Labour leaflet in Ealing showed misleading charts claiming the Green party “can’t win here,” which was called “grotesque” by an analyst.
  • The use of questionable statistics is becoming common as parties try to convince voters to vote tactically for them.
  • Leaflets from different parties, including Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, contained similarly dubious or unclear information.
  • Full Fact warns that some leaflets may mislead voters by making strong claims without solid evidence.
  • Local parties defended their leaflets as illustrative or strategic rather than precise predictions.
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Kerry Kennedy praises Jamie Raskin for protecting her at WHCA dinner

Kerry Kennedy praises Jamie Raskin for protecting her at WHCA dinner

Summary

Kerry Kennedy, a lawyer and activist, thanked Representative Jamie Raskin for helping keep her safe during an incident at the White House Correspondents Association dinner. The event involved a live shooter at the Washington Hilton Hotel where the dinner was held.

Key Facts

  • Kerry Kennedy is a lawyer and activist.
  • She is the sister of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services Secretary.
  • The incident took place during the White House Correspondents Association dinner.
  • The dinner was held at the Washington Hilton Hotel.
  • A live shooter caused panic during the event.
  • Representative Jamie Raskin helped protect Kerry Kennedy during the incident.
  • The thank you came in a statement made late Saturday.
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