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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

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

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

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

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

April 26, 2026 • Guardian US

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

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

April 26, 2026 • Axios

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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Axios
Trump has taken the ‘public’ out of public servant

Trump has taken the ‘public’ out of public servant

April 26, 2026 • The Hill

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

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

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

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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Guardian World
Kerry Kennedy praises Jamie Raskin for protecting her at WHCA dinner

Kerry Kennedy praises Jamie Raskin for protecting her at WHCA dinner

April 26, 2026 • The Hill

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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The Hill
Timeline: Trump assassination attempts and security incidents

Timeline: Trump assassination attempts and security incidents

April 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump and key White House officials evacuated a media event after a man opened fire at the Washington Hilton hotel. The article also outlines several previous attacks and security incidents involving President Trump from 2024 to 2026.

Key Facts

  • A 31-year-old man named Cole Tomas Allen was arrested after firing shots at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in August 2026.
  • In July 2024, President Trump was injured but survived a shooting during a campaign rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania. The shooter was killed by the Secret Service.
  • In September 2024, another gunman named Ryan Wesley Routh fired shots near Trump at his Florida golf course; he was later sentenced to life in prison for plotting to kill the president.
  • In September 2025, an off-duty NYPD officer, Melvin Eng, dressed as part of Trump’s security team without authorization at a golf event, leading to his suspension.
  • In February 2026, a man named Austin Tucker Martin crashed into the security perimeter of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home carrying a gas can and shotgun and was shot and killed by Secret Service agents. President Trump was not at the location during the incident.
  • The FBI and prosecutors have charged suspects involved in assassination attempts or security breaches related to President Trump.
  • Secret Service agents have actively responded to threats, including shooting or arresting attackers to protect the president.
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Al Jazeera
Heavy Snow Warning, up to 12 Inches To Hit—‘Dangerous Conditions’

Heavy Snow Warning, up to 12 Inches To Hit—‘Dangerous Conditions’

April 26, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A heavy snowstorm is expected to hit parts of the Mountain West region in the United States, especially Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana, starting Sunday. The National Weather Service warns of dangerous travel conditions with snowfalls up to 12 inches and strong winds.

Key Facts

  • Snowfall is expected to range from 3 to 12 inches depending on the area.
  • Colorado’s higher mountain areas could see 5 to 12 inches of snow with winds up to 45 mph.
  • Wyoming’s south central and southeastern areas may receive 6 to 12 inches, with strong winds reaching 35 mph in some places.
  • Montana’s north-central to northwestern areas could get up to 6 inches of snow, with some southern parts seeing 4 to 9 inches.
  • Blowing snow will reduce visibility, making travel very difficult and hazardous.
  • The snowstorm will affect travel on highways and mountain passes, including Interstates 25 and 90.
  • Snow and high winds are expected to last through Sunday night or Monday morning, gradually easing afterward.
  • The following week will have typical winter weather with occasional snow showers but little accumulation.
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Newsweek
To win in 2028, Democrats must embrace justice – not shy away from it | Steve Philips

To win in 2028, Democrats must embrace justice – not shy away from it | Steve Philips

April 26, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

The article argues that Democrats should strongly support justice and equality to win future elections. It says President Trump and his supporters focus on opposing progress on racism, sexism, and homophobia, and that Democrats should not be afraid to fight back on these issues.

Key Facts

  • Some Democrats believe focusing on justice and equality costs votes, but the article disagrees.
  • President Trump’s movement actively opposes efforts to address racism, sexism, and homophobia.
  • History shows strong racial resentment has influenced many U.S. elections.
  • Trump gained support by appealing to fears about white identity and immigration.
  • Democrats gained more votes in key states in 2024 compared to 2020, despite Trump’s increase in total support.
  • The idea that many 2020 Democratic voters switched to Trump in 2024 is false.
  • Democrats are warned not to reduce their focus on equality out of fear of losing white male voters.
  • The article says milder versions of Republican anti-immigrant or anti-equality positions will not defeat Trump-style politics.
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Guardian US
What we know about the suspected ‘assassination attempt’ on Donald Trump

What we know about the suspected ‘assassination attempt’ on Donald Trump

April 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A man carrying guns and knives was caught after trying to enter the White House Correspondents’ Dinner where President Donald Trump was present. Security officers quickly removed the president after gunshots were heard.

Key Facts

  • A man had guns and knives when he tried to enter a White House event.
  • The event was the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
  • President Donald Trump was attending the dinner at the time.
  • Gunshots were fired during the incident.
  • Security personnel acted quickly to protect the president.
  • The man was taken into custody by security forces.
  • No information yet on the man’s motives or background.
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Al Jazeera
White House correspondents’ dinner shooting latest: Trump unharmed and suspect in custody after attack at Washington Hilton

White House correspondents’ dinner shooting latest: Trump unharmed and suspect in custody after attack at Washington Hilton

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A man named Cole Tomas Allen tried to attack a security checkpoint at the White House correspondents’ dinner held at the Washington Hilton hotel. President Donald Trump and the guests were safely evacuated, and the suspect was arrested and taken to a hospital.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened at the Washington Hilton during the White House correspondents’ dinner.
  • The suspect, Cole Tomas Allen, 31, came from Torrance, California.
  • He was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives.
  • Allen charged at a US Secret Service checkpoint before being stopped.
  • No one else is believed to be involved in the attack.
  • The suspect was arrested and taken to a local hospital for evaluation.
  • He faces felony charges related to firearms and assault.
  • President Trump and the guests were safely evacuated without harm.
  • President Trump said the Washington Hilton is not very secure and supported building a larger, more secure ballroom at the White House.
  • Trump posted photos of the suspect and said he hopes to reschedule the dinner soon.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Teen arrested in Louisiana shooting got ride from scene from grandmother

Teen arrested in Louisiana shooting got ride from scene from grandmother

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A 17-year-old named Markel Lee was arrested after a mass shooting at the Mall of Louisiana that killed one high school senior and injured five others. Police used surveillance videos, license plate readers, and information from Lee’s grandmother to find and arrest him.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge on a Thursday afternoon.
  • One student, Martha Odom, was killed by a gunshot to the chest, and five others were injured.
  • Police found surveillance footage showing someone aiming a gun at the mall’s food court.
  • Lee’s grandmother drove him to the mall and picked him up shortly after the shooting.
  • Police identified Lee from surveillance images and arrested him on charges including first-degree murder and attempted murder.
  • Lee is 17 years old and is being treated as an adult under Louisiana law.
  • Police believe the shooting may be related to social media conflicts or gang activity.
  • Law enforcement and the Louisiana governor announced plans to search for others involved in connection with the shooting.
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Guardian World Guardian US
I’ve covered Trump for a decade. At the White House correspondents’ dinner, darkness came viscerally close

I’ve covered Trump for a decade. At the White House correspondents’ dinner, darkness came viscerally close

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

At the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington D.C., an armed attacker tried to enter the event but was stopped by security, resulting in gunfire and panic. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump were safely evacuated, and one officer was shot but protected by a bulletproof vest.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened at 8:36 p.m. during the WHCA dinner at the Washington Hilton hotel.
  • An attacker carrying guns and knives tried to breach a Secret Service checkpoint in the hotel lobby.
  • Secret Service agents responded quickly, and the attacker was stopped before entering the ballroom.
  • One law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to wearing a bulletproof vest.
  • President Trump and Melania Trump were rushed away safely before the attack reached the main event.
  • Guests in the ballroom dove under tables during the attack as shots were fired.
  • After the attacker was stopped, a calm returned as it became clear the danger had passed.
  • Some attendees, including Maryland Congressman Jamie Raskin, described the fear and confusion during the event.
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Guardian World Guardian US
How are Americans spending their tax refunds this year?

How are Americans spending their tax refunds this year?

April 26, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Americans are getting bigger tax refunds this year, with the average refund rising to over $3,400. The Treasury Department reported this increase on Tax Day and provided ways for people to check their refund status.

Key Facts

  • The average tax refund this year is more than $3,400.
  • This amount is 11 percent higher than last year's average refund.
  • The information was shared by the Treasury Department on Tax Day.
  • Tax filers can check the status of their refunds through official channels.
  • Larger refunds may influence how Americans choose to spend their money this year.
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The Hill
Thousands in California Warned To ‘Keep Windows and Doors Closed’

Thousands in California Warned To ‘Keep Windows and Doors Closed’

April 26, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Thousands of people in southern and southeastern California have been told to keep windows and doors closed because of very poor air quality. Strong winds have blown fine dust into the air, making it unhealthy to breathe, especially for children, older adults, and people with heart or lung problems.

Key Facts

  • The National Weather Service warned residents in parts of California to keep windows and doors closed due to poor air quality.
  • Strong winds between 25 and 35 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph, have caused harmful levels of dust particles in the air.
  • The dust is very fine and can cause breathing problems and irritation in the eyes, throat, and nose.
  • Affected areas include the Coachella Valley (like Palm Springs) and the Imperial Valley (including El Centro and Brawley).
  • People sensitive to pollution should avoid being outside, and others should reduce outdoor activity.
  • Residents are advised to reduce vehicle use and avoid creating more dust by driving on dirt roads.
  • Inside homes, using air purifiers and keeping windows and doors closed can help, while avoiding activities that create indoor air pollution like burning candles.
  • The air quality alert will last until at least Sunday morning or evening, with better air expected starting Tuesday as winds calm down.
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Newsweek
How the shooting unfolded at Washington event

How the shooting unfolded at Washington event

April 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

At the White House correspondents' dinner held at the Washington Hilton hotel, a gunman opened fire, causing security agents to quickly move President Donald Trump to safety. The suspect, Cole Tomas Allen from California, was carrying multiple weapons, and one security agent was injured and treated in hospital.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened inside the hotel hosting the White House correspondents' dinner.
  • President Donald Trump was quickly taken to safety by his security team.
  • Vice-President JD Vance and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt were also at the event.
  • The suspect is identified as Cole Tomas Allen, 31 years old, from Torrance, California.
  • Allen was a guest at the event location and was carrying several weapons, including guns and knives.
  • One U.S. security agent was hurt and received medical treatment.
  • The incident took place at the Washington Hilton hotel.
  • Authorities have taken control of the scene and are investigating.
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BBC Top Stories
What we know about the suspect in White House press dinner shooting

What we know about the suspect in White House press dinner shooting

April 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

Authorities have arrested 31-year-old Cole Thomas Allen for shooting outside the White House Correspondents' Dinner in Washington, D.C. He was armed with a shotgun, handgun, and knives, and was caught at the scene while police investigate his motive and how he got past security.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
  • The suspect is 31 years old and named Cole Thomas Allen.
  • He carried a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives.
  • Police subdued and arrested him at the scene.
  • Investigators are trying to find out why he did it.
  • Officials are also examining how he managed to get past security measures.
  • The event took place in Washington, D.C.
  • The investigation is ongoing.
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France24
What we know about press dinner shooting suspect

What we know about press dinner shooting suspect

April 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A man named Cole Tomas Allen was arrested after firing shots inside the Washington Hilton hotel during the White House Correspondents' Dinner. He told police he wanted to shoot officials in President Donald Trump's administration and was found with multiple weapons.

Key Facts

  • The suspect is 31 years old and from Torrance, California.
  • At least five to eight shots were fired during the incident.
  • Security and the suspect exchanged gunfire, but the suspect was not hit and was taken to the hospital for evaluation.
  • The suspect had a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives.
  • Police say he acted alone.
  • Allen worked for a tutoring company in Torrance and graduated from Caltech in 2017.
  • He faces charges for using a firearm during a violent crime and assault on federal officers.
  • He will be formally charged in federal court on Monday.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World BBC US
What to know about Cole Allen, alleged WH correspondents’ dinner shooter

What to know about Cole Allen, alleged WH correspondents’ dinner shooter

April 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A man named Cole Tomas Allen was arrested after firing a gun near the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, DC, where President Donald Trump and top officials were present. The shooting caused the evacuation of the event, but no one apart from the suspect was reported hurt. The motive is still unknown.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the Washington Hilton hotel during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.
  • President Donald Trump, his cabinet, and hundreds of guests had to be evacuated for safety.
  • Cole Tomas Allen, 31, was arrested at the scene after he passed through a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons.
  • Security officers shot at the suspect to stop him.
  • Allen reportedly lives in Torrance, California, and may have been staying as a guest in the hotel.
  • Social media posts show Allen worked as a teacher and described himself as an engineer, computer scientist, and game developer.
  • Allen donated money to a political group supporting Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race.
  • President Trump said the shooting likely was by a “lone wolf” and said it would not affect his efforts regarding the US-Israel war on Iran.
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Al Jazeera
A look at previous attempts on President Trump's life

A look at previous attempts on President Trump's life

April 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

This article reviews previous attempts to harm President Donald Trump since he took office in July 2024. It highlights the security risks faced by the president during his term.

Key Facts

  • The article looks at past attempts on President Trump's life since July 2024.
  • These incidents show ongoing security threats to the U.S. president.
  • The coverage includes a video report by FRANCE 24.
  • The article is related to recent events involving President Trump.
  • It references chaotic moments at the White House Correspondents' Dinner.
  • A suspect linked to a shooting at the White House event has been identified.
  • The story is part of broader coverage of U.S. political and security news.
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France24