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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Harris cites JFK, Obama among ‘most effective’ presidents, omitting Biden

Harris cites JFK, Obama among ‘most effective’ presidents, omitting Biden

Summary

Vice President Kamala Harris spoke at the National Urban League Conference and named some of the most effective U.S. presidents in history. She mentioned President John F. Kennedy and President Barack Obama but did not mention President Joe Biden, even though she serves as his vice president.

Key Facts

  • Kamala Harris spoke at the National Urban League Conference.
  • She was asked to name the top three most effective presidents in U.S. history.
  • Harris mentioned President John F. Kennedy and President Barack Obama.
  • She did not mention President Joe Biden, her current president.
  • Marc Morial is the President of the National Urban League.
  • Harris has served as Vice President under President Biden since 2021.
  • The conference focused on discussions about leadership and history.
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Trump Threat To Revive Anti-Weaponization Fund In Blanche Nomination Fight

Trump Threat To Revive Anti-Weaponization Fund In Blanche Nomination Fight

Summary

President Donald Trump threatened to keep Todd Blanche as acting attorney general and push to revive the controversial Anti-Weaponization Fund if Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis continue blocking Blanche’s confirmation. The fund is tied to compensation for people who Trump’s side says were unfairly targeted by investigations during the Biden administration. Cornyn and Tillis want assurances about the fund’s management before approving Blanche.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants Todd Blanche confirmed as attorney general but faces opposition from Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis.
  • Trump said he would keep Blanche as acting attorney general and try to pass the Anti-Weaponization Bill if the senators block the nomination.
  • The Anti-Weaponization Fund is about $1.8 billion intended to compensate people allegedly unfairly targeted in investigations.
  • Cornyn and Tillis want written guarantees that the Justice Department won’t restore or misuse the fund before approving Blanche.
  • Blanche has been acting attorney general since former Attorney General Pam Bondi left.
  • A federal judge paused the fund in May amid legal challenges.
  • Trump criticized the senators for blocking his nominee because he did not endorse their reelection campaigns.
  • The nomination fight ties into a broader disagreement among Republicans about the fund and justice department policies.
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Trump's threat to push ahead on settlement fund injects new uncertainty into attorney general talks

Trump's threat to push ahead on settlement fund injects new uncertainty into attorney general talks

Summary

President Donald Trump said he might start a fund to pay his allies if two Republican senators do not support his choice for attorney general. This creates uncertainty about the Senate vote scheduled for next week and shows his focus on helping supporters who believe they have been treated unfairly.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is pushing to confirm his nominee for attorney general.
  • Two Republican senators have not yet agreed to support the nominee.
  • Trump threatened to create a fund to pay compensation to his allies.
  • The fund aims to help supporters who feel they have been unfairly treated.
  • The Senate confirmation vote is planned for next week.
  • The situation has added uncertainty to the confirmation process.
  • Trump’s actions indicate his continued interest in supporting his loyal followers.
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Democrats, bullish on midterms, worry they’ll trip over their own feet

Democrats, bullish on midterms, worry they’ll trip over their own feet

Summary

Democrats are optimistic about winning the House and Senate in the upcoming elections. They feel encouraged by President Trump’s low poll ratings, but some members are concerned about disagreements within the party that could hurt their chances.

Key Facts

  • Democrats believe they can win majorities in both the House and the Senate.
  • This confidence is partly due to President Trump’s poor poll numbers.
  • The party is heading into August with a positive outlook for the midterm elections.
  • Some Democrats worry that internal conflicts may cause problems.
  • These disagreements revolve around the party’s future direction and strategy.
  • Despite the challenges, Democrats are focused on securing victories in Congress.
  • The midterms will be an important test of the party’s unity and campaign efforts.
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Trump threatens to revive $1.8bn 'anti-weaponisation' fund as Senate standoff deepens

Trump threatens to revive $1.8bn 'anti-weaponisation' fund as Senate standoff deepens

Summary

President Donald Trump is facing opposition from two Republican senators who are blocking the confirmation of his nominee for attorney general, Todd Blanche. Trump threatened to bring back a $1.8 billion fund that would compensate his allies for alleged political targeting if the senators do not approve Blanche.

Key Facts

  • Todd Blanche has been acting attorney general since April and needs full Republican support to be confirmed.
  • Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis are withholding their approval because of concerns about a proposed $1.8 billion "anti-weaponisation fund."
  • The fund was created to settle a lawsuit by Trump against the IRS for leaking his tax returns and to compensate allies for alleged politically motivated prosecutions.
  • The fund faced pushback from both Republicans and Democrats and was blocked by a federal judge citing ethical issues.
  • Cornyn and Tillis want a written guarantee that the Justice Department will not bring back the fund.
  • Trump said on social media that if the senators do not approve Blanche, he will keep him as acting attorney general and work to revive the fund.
  • Tillis criticized Trump’s plan to revive the fund and expressed hope to resolve the issue soon.
  • A Senate Judiciary Committee meeting is scheduled to possibly vote on Blanche’s confirmation.
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Police release Nancy Guthrie ransom notes in hopes of public help

Police release Nancy Guthrie ransom notes in hopes of public help

Summary

Nancy Guthrie, mother of "Today Show" co-host Savannah Guthrie, disappeared six months ago from her home in Arizona. Police have now shared two ransom notes containing unique language styles and are asking the public to help identify who wrote them.

Key Facts

  • Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her Arizona home six months ago.
  • She is the mother of Savannah Guthrie, a co-host on the "Today Show."
  • Police released two ransom notes connected to the case.
  • The ransom notes have distinctive language features that might help identify the writer.
  • Authorities are seeking help from the public to find the person who wrote the notes.
  • This case is still under investigation.
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How Americans are handling back-to-school budgeting with rising prices

How Americans are handling back-to-school budgeting with rising prices

Summary

Many American families are facing higher prices when preparing for back-to-school shopping due to inflation. A recent survey looked at how people are managing their budgets to save money on school supplies.

Key Facts

  • Inflation has caused prices to rise for back-to-school items.
  • Families are trying to find ways to spend less on school supplies.
  • A spending survey was conducted to understand how people adjust their budgets.
  • The survey results highlight common strategies used by parents and students.
  • Saving money has become a priority for many households during back-to-school shopping.
  • The increase in costs affects a wide range of school-related expenses.
  • Consumers are looking for deals and discounts to manage their budgets better.
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US reporter fighting back after border patrol seized his cell phones

US reporter fighting back after border patrol seized his cell phones

Summary

Reporter Max Blumenthal had his cell phones taken by US border patrol agents at Dulles airport after returning from Iran. He is now involved in a legal case that challenges the government’s actions and seeks proof of how the phones were handled and accessed.

Key Facts

  • Max Blumenthal is a reporter and founder of the independent outlet the Grayzone.
  • Border patrol agents questioned him about his Iran trip and seized his two cell phones without a warrant.
  • His phones were returned after a court motion but the government must now provide evidence about their handling.
  • A federal judge ruled that a search warrant is required for “advanced” phone searches using special technology.
  • This case is part of a broader concern about government attempts to access journalists’ communications and sources.
  • The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee is supporting Blumenthal and filed the emergency motion.
  • The case follows a recent similar incident involving seizure of a phone from an activist.
  • The court referenced a recent case involving the New York Times reporters, showing ongoing concerns about press freedom.
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Which 3 airports are switching over to TSA Gold+ and when?

Which 3 airports are switching over to TSA Gold+ and when?

Summary

Three airports in the United States will start using the TSA Gold+ program, a new security service by the Transportation Security Administration. The program aims to speed up airport security checks for travelers.

Key Facts

  • The TSA Gold+ program is a new service from the Transportation Security Administration.
  • It is designed to make airport security checks faster.
  • Three U.S. airports will begin using TSA Gold+ soon.
  • The program targets frequent or trusted travelers.
  • TSA will implement the program to improve efficiency at security checkpoints.
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Trump vows to push $1.8bn slush fund as Senate committee set to reconsider AG nomination

Trump vows to push $1.8bn slush fund as Senate committee set to reconsider AG nomination

Summary

The US Senate Judiciary Committee will meet to consider Todd Blanche’s nomination as attorney general. President Donald Trump wants to restart a $1.8 billion fund to compensate people he says were unfairly targeted by the government, but some Republican senators oppose the fund and are delaying Blanche’s confirmation.

Key Facts

  • The Senate Judiciary Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday to discuss Todd Blanche’s nomination as attorney general.
  • President Trump promised to bring back a $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund meant to compensate individuals he says were unfairly treated by the government.
  • Republican senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis are requesting written proof that the Department of Justice will not create this fund.
  • Committee chair Chuck Grassley supports Blanche’s confirmation and wants it done before the Senate’s August recess.
  • Blanche, formerly Trump’s personal lawyer, says the fund is dead but has not confirmed this in writing.
  • Critics call the fund a “slush fund” to pay Trump’s political allies, while Trump calls it support for “great American Patriots.”
  • Cornyn and Tillis also oppose an IRS deal that would stop tax audits on Trump and his associates.
  • The controversy is delaying Blanche’s nomination and is causing political negotiations among Senate Republicans.
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“Today” show host Savannah Guthrie begs for “someone to come forward” in her mother’s disappearance

“Today” show host Savannah Guthrie begs for “someone to come forward” in her mother’s disappearance

Summary

Savannah Guthrie, host of the “Today” show, is asking the public for help after her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing near Tucson, Arizona. Authorities have released ransom notes, including one claiming Nancy has died, but no suspects have been caught yet.

Key Facts

  • Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her home near Tucson on February 1, 2026.
  • Two ransom notes were sent to a Tucson TV station; one demands $4 million in cryptocurrency.
  • The first note said Nancy was safe but scared and would be released after payment.
  • The second note claimed Nancy died soon after being kidnapped and is buried outdoors.
  • Savannah Guthrie posted on social media pleading for anyone with information to come forward.
  • The ransom notes have unique writing styles that authorities hope someone recognizes.
  • No arrests or clear leads have been announced nearly six months after her disappearance.
  • Investigators are unsure how many people were involved or if Nancy knew her kidnappers.
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Trump ups pressure on Senate GOP in Blanche fight, vows ‘anti-weaponization’ fund revival

Trump ups pressure on Senate GOP in Blanche fight, vows ‘anti-weaponization’ fund revival

Summary

President Donald Trump criticized the Senate for delaying the confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General. He said he might keep Blanche as acting Attorney General and bring back a $1.776 billion fund called the ‘anti-weaponization’ fund. Trump also spoke out against Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants Todd Blanche to become the full-time Attorney General.
  • The Senate has delayed Blanche’s confirmation.
  • Blanche is currently serving as Acting Attorney General.
  • Trump warned he may keep Blanche in the acting role instead of waiting for confirmation.
  • Trump plans to revive a $1.776 billion ‘anti-weaponization’ fund.
  • Trump criticized two Republican Senators, John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, over this issue.
  • The ‘anti-weaponization’ fund had been controversial in the past.
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Joe Biden confessed to everything on tape

Joe Biden confessed to everything on tape

Summary

The article claims that Joe Biden admitted to certain actions during two interviews. It refers to these interviews as evidence of Biden's wrongdoing.

Key Facts

  • The article mentions two interviews named the Zwonitzer and Hur interviews.
  • It claims that Joe Biden confessed to something during these interviews.
  • The article states that Biden showed deception and guilt.
  • No specific details about what Biden admitted to are provided.
  • The article does not include any direct quotes or evidence from the interviews.
  • The source and context of the interviews are not explained.
  • The article focuses on Joe Biden, who is the U.S. President.
  • It does not mention any responses or reactions to these claims.
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Live updates: US planning renewed Iran strikes; Trump pressures GOP on Blanche

Live updates: US planning renewed Iran strikes; Trump pressures GOP on Blanche

Summary

The U.S. military is considering new attacks on Iran soon because of concerns that Iran might try to rebuild its nuclear weapons. Israel may join these attacks with a strong bombing plan. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump is asking Republican Party members to support Representative Lauren Boebert.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. is planning possible military strikes against Iran as early as this weekend.
  • The concern is that Iran could rebuild its nuclear weapons program.
  • Israel is reportedly involved and may carry out a major bombing campaign.
  • The situation is connected to recent efforts to disarm Hamas.
  • President Donald Trump is pressuring Republicans about support for Representative Boebert.
  • These developments reflect ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
  • The U.S. government is actively responding to perceived threats from Iran.
  • Political actions within the U.S. GOP are linked to these international events.
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Trump’s threat to push ahead on settlement fund injects new uncertainty into attorney general talks

Trump’s threat to push ahead on settlement fund injects new uncertainty into attorney general talks

Summary

President Donald Trump said he will continue with a current acting Attorney General, Todd Blanche, and push forward on creating a fund to pay his supporters if two Republican senators do not back his nominee for attorney general. The fund aims to compensate people who feel they were unfairly treated by the criminal justice system but has caused division among Republicans ahead of the Senate vote.

Key Facts

  • President Trump threatened to keep Todd Blanche as acting Attorney General if Sens. John Cornyn and Thom Tillis do not support his official nomination.
  • The senators oppose the nominee partly because of a $1.8 billion settlement fund linked to a lawsuit that compensates people who feel mistreated by the justice system.
  • The fund also provides immunity from tax audits to Trump and his family members.
  • Trump called the fund “dead” on Friday but reversed course on Saturday, saying he would push to restore it.
  • The Senate Judiciary Committee chairman, Sen. Chuck Grassley, rescheduled the committee vote on Blanche’s nomination to allow more time to gather support.
  • Senators Cornyn and Tillis are retiring and have expressed dissatisfaction with Trump not endorsing them.
  • Trump says the fund will assist people unfairly treated under previous Democratic administrations.
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Tillis says Blanche won't be confirmed as AG amid Trump fund fight

Tillis says Blanche won't be confirmed as AG amid Trump fund fight

Summary

Senator Thom Tillis said that Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche will not be confirmed next week because of President Trump’s recent statements about a fund for people the President calls political victims. Tillis said the disagreement over this fund is causing tension between the White House and some Senate Republicans.

Key Facts

  • Senator Thom Tillis made the statement on Saturday morning.
  • President Trump has spoken about an "anti-weaponization" fund related to political persecution.
  • Tillis says President Trump wants to restart or create a similar fund despite earlier claims it was ended.
  • The fund is controversial and opposed by many Senate Republicans.
  • Todd Blanche is the nominee for Attorney General.
  • Tillis believes Blanche is qualified but may not be confirmed because of this issue.
  • The White House did not immediately respond to Tillis’s comments.
  • The situation is ongoing and still developing.
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Maryland governor 'very concerned' Trump will interfere in midterms

Maryland governor 'very concerned' Trump will interfere in midterms

Summary

Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed concern that President Donald Trump might use federal power to interfere with the 2026 midterm elections. As the incoming chair of the National Governors Association, Moore plans to support states in managing their elections and promote a national program to build workforce opportunities for young people through service.

Key Facts

  • Governor Wes Moore is worried that President Trump could influence the 2026 midterm elections using federal authority.
  • Trump has taken steps like restricting mail-in voting and seeking voter information from states.
  • Moore will become chair of the National Governors Association, a bipartisan group of U.S. governors.
  • Moore is launching “Service United,” a program to help young people gain work experience through service projects.
  • The program has $10 million in philanthropic support and aims to expand work apprenticeships.
  • Some Republicans, including Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, support parts of Moore’s workforce plan but caution against large government programs.
  • Moore believes changes in the workforce from technology like artificial intelligence are creating new challenges for young workers.
  • Moore is often mentioned as a possible future presidential candidate but says he will focus on his current role and the upcoming elections.
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El-Sayed Takes Double-Digit Lead Over Stevens Days Before Michigan Primary

El-Sayed Takes Double-Digit Lead Over Stevens Days Before Michigan Primary

Summary

Abdul El-Sayed is leading Haley Stevens by over 10 points in the Michigan Democratic Senate primary, according to recent polls. The winner will face Republican Mike Rogers in the 2026 midterm election for an open Senate seat.

Key Facts

  • El-Sayed leads Stevens 54.8% to 45.2% in a poll by The Public Sentiment Institute.
  • Younger and more progressive voters mainly support El-Sayed, while Stevens does better with older voters.
  • The winner will run against Republican Mike Rogers, who is seen as a strong candidate.
  • Michigan’s Senate seat is open because Democrat Gary Peters is retiring.
  • Republicans view this seat as a key chance to gain a Senate seat, as they have not won there since 1994.
  • Other polls show Stevens tied with Rogers, while Rogers is ahead of El-Sayed in a head-to-head matchup.
  • Democrats believe voter enthusiasm is high despite challenges created by President Trump and Republicans.
  • Polls and prediction markets indicate growing momentum for El-Sayed in the Democratic primary.
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Democrats see chance to flip House seat as abuse claims mount against GOP rep

Democrats see chance to flip House seat as abuse claims mount against GOP rep

Summary

Democrats are focusing on an Ohio House seat where Republican Rep. Max Miller faces allegations of domestic abuse from his ex-wife. Miller denies the claims and has filed lawsuits against his accusers, while Democrats see an opportunity to win the seat in the upcoming November election.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Max Miller, a Republican from Ohio, is accused of domestic abuse by his ex-wife.
  • Miller served as a White House adviser during President Donald Trump’s first term.
  • The abuse allegations have been public for years but have recently gained more media attention.
  • Democrats are pushing for Miller’s resignation and a congressional ethics investigation.
  • Miller won the district with just over 51% of the vote two years ago.
  • Miller denies the accusations and has filed defamation lawsuits against his ex-wife and another accuser.
  • Democrats are supporting Brian Poindexter, a union ironworker and their candidate for the seat.
  • Republicans continue to support Miller, saying he has delivered results for his district.
  • The seat is part of a narrow Republican majority in the U.S. House that is contested in the fall elections.
  • The deadline to replace Miller on the ballot is approaching, but no Republican has made a move to do so.
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D4vd hearing details high hopes and brutal end of girl at heart of murder case

D4vd hearing details high hopes and brutal end of girl at heart of murder case

Summary

Pop singer D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, is accused of murdering 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors say he killed Celeste after a secret sexual relationship and tried to hide the crime by mutilating her body. Burke denies the charges.

Key Facts

  • David Anthony Burke, known as D4vd, is charged with murder, child sexual abuse, and mutilation of a body.
  • Celeste Rivas Hernandez was 14 years old when she died, and her body was found in a car registered to Burke.
  • Their secret relationship started when Burke was 18 and Celeste was 13.
  • Text messages showed plans for a future together, but also revealed tension and attempts to keep the relationship secret.
  • Celeste became pregnant by Burke and later had an abortion, which she regretted.
  • On the night before her death, they exchanged angry texts about Burke’s other relationship.
  • Prosecutors say Burke had a recording contract that gave him a motive to keep Celeste silent.
  • The defense questioned whether Celeste’s death was a homicide during the preliminary hearing.
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