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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Black women's unemployment spikes amid Trump's federal workforce cuts

Black women's unemployment spikes amid Trump's federal workforce cuts

September 05, 2025
The unemployment rate for Black women increased to 7.5% in August, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This rise is mainly due to cuts in the federal workforce by President Trump, which disproportionately affect Black women.

Key Facts:

  • The unemployment rate for Black women was 7.5% in August.
  • In January, the rate was 5.4%.
  • The overall unemployment rate has only increased by 0.3 percentage points.
  • President Trump reduced jobs in the federal workforce.
  • These job cuts have had a larger impact on Black women.
  • Black women make up 28% of employees in some targeted federal agencies.
  • The federal government has lost 97,000 jobs so far this year.

Source Information

Axios
US jobs market weakens further in August

US jobs market weakens further in August

September 05, 2025
The U.S. job market showed signs of weakening in August, with only 22,000 jobs added and the unemployment rate increasing slightly to 4.3%. This has raised concerns about the state of the American economy, prompting speculation about potential interest rate cuts.

Key Facts:

  • The U.S. added 22,000 jobs in August, which was fewer than expected.
  • The unemployment rate rose from 4.2% to 4.3%.
  • Previous job numbers for May and June were revised down, showing weaker hiring.
  • The Labor Department reported job losses in June for the first time since 2020.
  • Investors expect the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates due to the weak job market.
  • U.S. President Trump dismissed the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, alleging without evidence that job data was manipulated.
  • Economists believe that tariff and immigration policies might be contributing to the job market issues.
  • The federal government reduced its workforce by 15,000 jobs in August.

Source Information

BBC Business
Is Trump really considering relaxing laws on cannabis?

Is Trump really considering relaxing laws on cannabis?

September 05, 2025
The article discusses potential changes to U.S. federal cannabis laws. President Trump is considering reclassifying cannabis to make penalties less severe, while Congress re-introduced a bill aiming to remove the ban on marijuana. Despite state-level legalizations, cannabis remains a federally restricted substance.

Key Facts:

  • Seth Ferranti was imprisoned for 21 years in the 1990s for non-violent drug offenses related to cannabis.
  • Marijuana is legal in some states but still classified as a Schedule I drug federally, making it illegal.
  • Nearly 90% of Americans support legalizing marijuana for at least medical use.
  • Democrat lawmakers re-introduced the MORE Act to end the federal ban on cannabis.
  • President Trump is considering changing cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, which reduces penalties but does not fully legalize it.
  • The current federal classification of cannabis limits tax deductions for cannabis businesses under tax code section 280E.
  • Federal prohibition affects banking services for cannabis businesses, forcing them to rely on cash transactions.
  • As of 2023, cannabis is fully legal in 24 states and allowed for medical use in 12 others.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
4 fact-checks from Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Senate testimony over COVID-19 vaccines, CDC

4 fact-checks from Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Senate testimony over COVID-19 vaccines, CDC

September 05, 2025
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified before the U.S. Senate Finance Committee about COVID-19 vaccines and related topics. He disagreed with several senators' statements about his record and beliefs on health issues. The hearing included fact-checking of Kennedy's statements and discussions about vaccine access and statistics.

Key Facts:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified about his past comments and management of health agencies related to COVID-19.
  • Kennedy disputed claims made by senators about his views on antidepressants and school shootings.
  • He argued against the idea that he was limiting access to COVID-19 vaccines.
  • Kennedy acknowledged support for Operation Warp Speed, despite his earlier criticisms of COVID-19 vaccines.
  • Senator Mark Warner questioned Kennedy on the number of Americans who died from COVID-19; Kennedy responded that he did not know.
  • Over 1 million Americans have died from COVID-19 according to statistical estimates, with many having underlying health issues.
  • The FDA has guidelines on who can receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine. This includes people 65 and older and those with health conditions making them more vulnerable to severe COVID-19.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
WATCH LIVE: Trump holds news briefing after signing executive order for ‘Department of War’ moniker

WATCH LIVE: Trump holds news briefing after signing executive order for ‘Department of War’ moniker

September 05, 2025
President Trump announced plans to sign an executive order allowing the Department of Defense to use the title "Department of War," its original name. A formal name change would require Congress to pass new legislation. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has supported this change and made various cultural shifts within the department.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump plans to sign an executive order to give the Department of Defense the old name "Department of War."
  • A formal name change cannot happen without new legislation from Congress.
  • The Department of War was the original name when it was created in 1789 and was changed to the Department of Defense in 1947.
  • Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has publicly supported the name change and conducted a social media poll on the topic.
  • Hegseth has made other cultural changes at the Pentagon, including the removal of diversity programs and certain books from military libraries.
  • These actions have included removing transgender troops and addressing what Hegseth sees as impacts of "woke culture" on the military.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Fact-checking RFK Jr.’s claim that ‘everybody can get’ the COVID-19 vaccine

Fact-checking RFK Jr.’s claim that ‘everybody can get’ the COVID-19 vaccine

September 05, 2025
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced criticism for stating that everyone can get the COVID-19 vaccine, despite new guidelines limiting availability to certain groups. The FDA updated its guidance to allow the vaccine mainly for those aged 65 and over or individuals with underlying health conditions. The availability and insurance coverage of the vaccine depend largely on state policies and additional approvals.

Key Facts:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated everyone can get the COVID-19 vaccine, which was disputed.
  • The FDA updated its vaccine guidance, limiting it to people 65 and over and those with certain health conditions.
  • Healthy people under 65 might need a doctor's prescription and could pay out-of-pocket.
  • The COVID-19 vaccine availability varies by state.
  • Most health insurance plans cover vaccines recommended by the CDC.
  • Kennedy replaced all members of the CDC’s advisory committee, some with antivaccine views.
  • The CDC's advisory panel has not yet issued current vaccine guidance.
  • The panel is scheduled to meet on September 18-19.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Trump administration investigates Medicaid spending on immigrants in Democratic states

Trump administration investigates Medicaid spending on immigrants in Democratic states

September 05, 2025
The Trump administration is investigating Medicaid spending in six Democratic-led states that provide health coverage to immigrants without permanent legal status. The federal review focuses on ensuring Medicaid funds are not misused for healthcare services that these immigrants receive. California, after reporting a $500 million overcharge to the federal government, is a primary focus of these investigations.

Key Facts:

  • The Trump administration is reviewing Medicaid spending in six states: California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, Oregon, and Washington.
  • The investigations aim to find any waste, fraud, or abuse in payments for health care to immigrants without legal status.
  • Federal rules allow Medicaid payments for emergency and pregnancy care for immigrants without permanent legal status.
  • California reported it overcharged the federal government by at least $500 million for services to these immigrants, risking possible legal actions.
  • Some Democratic-led states cut or adjusted their Medicaid programs due to high costs of covering immigrants.
  • The Trump administration reduced taxpayer spending on immigrant health care and pushed to remove people living in the U.S. illegally from Medicaid.
  • California's attorney general criticized the investigations as politically motivated against states supporting immigrants.
  • A federal judge blocked attempts to hand over Medicaid data to deportation officials following a lawsuit by 20 states.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

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Four Democratic senators urge Smithsonian to resist White House attempts to 'bully the institution'

Four Democratic senators urge Smithsonian to resist White House attempts to 'bully the institution'

September 05, 2025
Four Democratic senators sent a letter to the Smithsonian Institution, urging it to resist any pressure from the White House to change its programs and exhibitions. This comes after President Trump criticized the Smithsonian for its portrayal of American history and suggested it should focus more on achievements rather than past issues. The senators argue that the Smithsonian operates independently and not under presidential control.

Key Facts:

  • Four Democratic senators sent a letter to the Smithsonian's secretary, Lonnie G. Bunch.
  • The letter advises against White House pressure to alter its mission and values.
  • President Trump criticized the Smithsonian for its portrayal of U.S. history.
  • The White House memo listed specific criticisms regarding 22 exhibitions and programs.
  • The Smithsonian is funded by both private donations and federal appropriations from Congress.
  • Oversight of the Smithsonian is managed by Congress, not the executive branch.
  • Senators involved include Alex Padilla, Catherine Cortez Masto, Gary Peters, and Jeffrey A. Merkley.
  • NPR reported some criticized exhibitions were temporary and are no longer on display.

Source Information

NPR Home
U.S. hiring stalls with just 22,000 jobs added in August

U.S. hiring stalls with just 22,000 jobs added in August

September 05, 2025
U.S. employers added 22,000 jobs in August, which was lower than expected and fewer than in July. The unemployment rate increased to 4.3% and concerns arise regarding economic policies and job market stability. Tariffs and past interest rate hikes may be affecting hiring decisions.

Key Facts:

  • U.S. employers added 22,000 jobs in August, down from 79,000 in July.
  • Economists expected about 80,000 new jobs for August.
  • The unemployment rate increased to 4.3%, the highest since 2021.
  • Factories cut 12,000 jobs, construction companies lost 7,000 jobs, and the federal government lost 15,000 jobs in August.
  • Health care and social assistance added nearly 47,000 jobs.
  • The job market is growing slower than previous years, averaging fewer than 75,000 new jobs a month this year.
  • Tariffs and interest rate hikes are contributing to hiring uncertainty.
  • Average hourly earnings rose by 0.3% from July and 3.7% from August 2024.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Blue states mount vaccine defense against RFK Jr.

Blue states mount vaccine defense against RFK Jr.

September 05, 2025
Some states in the U.S. are taking their own actions to provide COVID-19 vaccines, countering restrictions set by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. These states are making plans to ensure vaccine access independently, causing a mix of policies across the country. This variation could lead to public confusion and less effective public health responses.

Key Facts:

  • Several states, including Massachusetts, California, and New Mexico, are setting their own COVID-19 vaccine policies.
  • Massachusetts requires insurers to cover vaccines recommended by its health department, not just CDC guidelines.
  • New Mexico's health department issued an order for vaccine access despite federal restrictions.
  • States like California, Oregon, and Washington are creating their own vaccine recommendations.
  • Illinois is considering purchasing COVID-19 vaccines directly from manufacturers to ensure access.
  • Florida has announced it will end all school vaccine mandates.
  • The Health and Human Services (HHS) department reminded states to respect vaccine exemptions under the federal program for free vaccines.
  • Conflicting vaccine policies are similar to divides seen in other areas like abortion and gender-affirming care.

Source Information

Axios
Fact checking Robert F Kennedy’s statements to Senate on COVID, vaccines

Fact checking Robert F Kennedy’s statements to Senate on COVID, vaccines

September 05, 2025
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., United States Health and Human Services Secretary, faced questions from US senators about his past comments and actions related to COVID-19 vaccines and antidepressants. During the Senate Finance Committee hearing, Kennedy disputed claims from senators and defended his views. The hearing also covered topics like vaccine distribution and the accuracy of COVID-19 death statistics.

Key Facts:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared before the Senate Finance Committee to discuss health management and vaccines.
  • Kennedy disagreed with senators on statements they attributed to him about COVID-19 vaccines and antidepressants.
  • Kennedy rejected Senator Mark Warner's statistic that over a million Americans died from COVID-19, citing unreliable data.
  • According to multiple reports, more than 1 million Americans have died from COVID-19.
  • Kennedy praised Operation Warp Speed, calling it "genius" for its rapid vaccine development.
  • Senator Maggie Hassan accused Kennedy of limiting access to COVID-19 vaccines, which he denied.
  • The FDA restricts the latest COVID-19 vaccines to people over 65 and those 6 months or older with high-risk conditions.
  • People outside the FDA's specified groups can still receive vaccines but might need to do so "off-label."

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Winklevoss twins join the GOP's crypto megadonor set

Winklevoss twins join the GOP's crypto megadonor set

September 05, 2025
The Winklevoss twins, Cameron and Tyler, are significant donors in Republican politics, especially in supporting pro-Trump and pro-cryptocurrency candidates. They have donated millions to various Republican committees and groups, with a focus on making America a global leader in cryptocurrency. The twins have also become influential figures in the crypto industry and have strengthened ties with key political figures, including Donald Trump.

Key Facts:

  • The Winklevoss twins have donated over $32 million to Republican causes this year.
  • A large portion, $21 million, went to the newly established Digital Freedom Fund, a super PAC for pro-Trump and pro-crypto candidates.
  • They have donated more than $2.6 million to the Congressional Leadership Fund and National Republican Congressional Committee.
  • They contributed $1 million to the pro-Trump MAGA Inc. super PAC.
  • Over $1.6 million was given to the National Republican Senatorial Committee and Senate Leadership Fund.
  • The twins have established connections with Donald Trump and other political figures, influencing crypto-related policies.
  • They played a part in the Rockbridge Network, a group of conservative donors.
  • They own Gemini, a cryptocurrency platform, and are noted for their involvement in the tech and crypto industries.

Source Information

Axios
Democrat who called RFK Jr. a 'charlatan' says U.S. is vulnerable to next pandemic

Democrat who called RFK Jr. a 'charlatan' says U.S. is vulnerable to next pandemic

September 05, 2025
During a Senate hearing, Democratic Senator Maria Cantwell criticized Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for cutting mRNA vaccine research funds. Cantwell warned that these actions leave the U.S. vulnerable to future pandemics. Both Democrats and Republicans questioned Kennedy's decisions regarding vaccine research and CDC changes.

Key Facts:

  • Senator Maria Cantwell criticized Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in a Senate hearing.
  • The hearing discussed President Trump's 2026 health care agenda.
  • Kennedy faced criticism from both parties for canceling mRNA vaccine research funding.
  • Kennedy's decisions to change CDC policies, including firing the vaccine advisory panel, were questioned.
  • Critics worry that questioning vaccine safety research could undermine public health.
  • Kennedy defended his actions, stating they were necessary to restore the CDC's credibility.
  • Cantwell expressed concerns that cuts in vaccine research would harm U.S. pandemic preparedness.

Source Information

NPR Home

Health Secretary RFK Jr. grilled on vaccines and more during Senate hearing

September 05, 2025
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared before the Senate, where senators asked him questions about vaccines and other health-related topics. The session lasted nearly three hours and involved both Democratic and Republican senators.

Key Facts:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the current Health Secretary.
  • He was questioned by senators from both political parties.
  • The main topic was vaccine access, but other health issues were also discussed.
  • The Senate hearing lasted almost three hours.
  • NPR provided coverage and analysis of the hearing.

Source Information

NPR Home
Joe Biden undergoes skin cancer surgery

Joe Biden undergoes skin cancer surgery

September 05, 2025
Joe Biden, former US President, recently had surgery to remove skin cancer. This procedure, known as Mohs surgery, involves removing skin until no cancer remains. Biden has had other battles with cancer in the past.

Key Facts:

  • Joe Biden, former US President, had skin cancer surgery.
  • The surgery is called Mohs surgery and removes cancerous skin.
  • Biden is 82 years old.
  • In 2023, Biden had a cancerous lesion taken off his chest.
  • He was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer in May.
  • Biden had non-melanoma skin cancers removed before his presidency.
  • Biden's advocacy against cancer is personal; his son, Beau, died of brain cancer.

Source Information

BBC World
US Department of Defense to be renamed ‘Department of War’: Report

US Department of Defense to be renamed ‘Department of War’: Report

September 05, 2025
President Donald Trump plans to rename the Department of Defense to the Department of War to create a more assertive image. The change is expected to be announced through an executive order, but making it permanent requires legislative action.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump intends to rename the Department of Defense to the Department of War.
  • The name change aims to project a more forceful image for the department.
  • An executive order is expected to announce this change on Friday.
  • The Department of Defense was originally called the Department of War before 1947.
  • The change will only be fully permanent after new laws are passed by Congress.
  • US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth supports the name change, emphasizing a "warrior ethos."
  • Trump linked the name change to past US military successes.
  • It is unclear how the name change will be made permanent, with further legal and legislative actions necessary.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

D.C. attorney general sues Trump administration to end National Guard deployment

September 05, 2025
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb is taking legal action against the Trump administration to stop the use of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C. He claims that using armed soldiers for policing American citizens is not legal.

Key Facts:

  • D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb filed a lawsuit.
  • The lawsuit is against the Trump administration.
  • Schwalb wants to stop National Guard troops from being used in D.C.
  • He argues that it's unlawful to use soldiers to police citizens.
  • The lawsuit was reported on September 5, 2025.

Source Information

NPR National
Hats on hats: How the Trump administration is loading officials with jobs

Hats on hats: How the Trump administration is loading officials with jobs

September 05, 2025
The Trump administration has given several government officials multiple important roles at the same time. For example, Marco Rubio serves in three different capacities, including Secretary of State. This staffing approach is uncommon among other presidents.

Key Facts:

  • Marco Rubio currently holds three jobs: Secretary of State, acting National Security Adviser, and acting United States Archivist.
  • Previously, Rubio also served as the acting director of the U.S. Agency for International Development.
  • At least twelve officials in the Trump administration hold two or more jobs.
  • Scott Bessent is both Treasury Secretary and acting IRS Commissioner.
  • Jim O'Neill is Health and Human Services deputy secretary and interim CDC director.
  • The Trump administration defends this staffing method as promoting communication and efficiency.
  • Max Stier from the Partnership for Public Service criticizes this approach as ineffective.
  • This practice involves appointing Senate-confirmed loyalists to multiple roles instead of internal promotions.

Source Information

NPR Home
Young Democrats want to unseat their elders. Young Republicans are happy to wait

Young Democrats want to unseat their elders. Young Republicans are happy to wait

September 05, 2025
Young Democrats are actively running for Congress, with many challenging existing members of their own party. In contrast, young Republicans are less actively pursuing congressional bids, largely supporting their current party leadership and policies.

Key Facts:

  • Over 20 young Democrats, under age 40, have announced they are running for Congress.
  • About half of these young Democrats are challenging current members of their own party.
  • There is only one young Republican currently known to be running for Congress.
  • Young Republicans generally support the current work of their party.
  • President Trump remains popular among many young Republicans, though his approval rating has declined recently among this group.
  • The only young Republican candidate in Congress currently known is Mason Foley in Tennessee's 7th district.
  • Foley's campaign highlights his age and aims to support President Trump's policies, describing the election as a chance for a "better future."

Source Information

NPR Home
What ICE agents can and cannot legally do during arrests

What ICE agents can and cannot legally do during arrests

September 05, 2025
The article discusses the legal powers and limitations of ICE agents during immigration arrests in the U.S. It highlights how agents are operating under broad authority but also facing legal challenges regarding the methods they use. Some actions by ICE agents have raised concerns among legal experts about exceeding legal boundaries.

Key Facts:

  • ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is responsible for immigration enforcement in the U.S.
  • ICE agents have substantial powers to question, search, and arrest immigrants without a warrant.
  • The Immigration and Nationality Act requires "reasonable suspicion" for warrantless arrests.
  • Legal experts are questioning the legality of some tactics used by ICE agents, like racial profiling and questioning based on appearance or location.
  • A court ruling stated that using race or ethnicity as a sole factor for suspicion violates the Fourth Amendment.
  • Concerns exist that ICE agents may not be following judicial orders regarding these legal standards.
  • The debate includes the balance between national security measures and individual rights.

Source Information

NPR Home