US News

GOP support erodes for Epstein files petition

September 04, 2025

Representative Thomas Massie is trying to push a petition to release Jeffrey Epstein records despite losing some Republican support. House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republicans argue that a current investigation will provide more information. The petition needs a few more signatures to move forward but faces challenges from within the party and the White House.

Key Facts:

Representative Thomas Massie is leading a petition to release Epstein records.
House Speaker Mike Johnson advises against the petition, supporting an ongoing investigation instead.
Initially, the petition had strong support but is now losing backers among Republicans.
The petition needs 218 signatures to be voted on in the House; it currently has 215.
Some Republicans think the petition is unnecessary due to the current investigation and have withdrawn their support.
The White House is lobbying against the petition, asking Republicans not to sign it.
If the petition succeeds in the House, it would still need Senate approval and the president's signature.
Former President Trump is expected to veto the measure if it reaches his desk.

Source Information

Axios

PBS cuts 15% of jobs in wake of federal funding cut

September 04, 2025

PBS is cutting 15% of its jobs due to the removal of all federal funding by Congress, which takes effect on October 1. PBS Chief Executive Paula Kerger stated that this funding cut means a 21% reduction in revenue for the organization.

Key Facts:

PBS will cut about 15% of its workforce due to a federal funding cut.
Thirty-four PBS employees were informed their jobs are being eliminated.
PBS has lost over 100 jobs in total, including previously unfilled positions, due to funding issues.
Federal funding for public broadcasting is being cut by $1.1 billion over two years.
PBS receives about 15% of its yearly funding from federal sources.
NPR plans to reduce its budget by $8 million to help affected public stations.
Public TV and radio stations often get a significant part of their funds from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
The funding changes may seriously affect stations serving rural and Native American communities.

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NPR Home

Trump seeks to rename Department of Defense to Department of War

September 04, 2025

President Trump plans to rename the Department of Defense to the Department of War. This move aims to bring back a strong military attitude, which the administration refers to as a "warrior ethos." The change would need Congress approval, but the White House is exploring other ways to make it happen.

Key Facts:

President Trump intends to change the name of the Defense Department to the Department of War.
The White House confirmed these plans, originally reported by Fox News.
Trump's administration wants to revive a strong military spirit called "warrior ethos."
Current Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth renamed a Pentagon room to "W.A.R. Room."
Legally, changing the department's name would require Congress to pass new legislation.
Historically, the War Department existed from 1789 until 1947 before becoming part of the Department of Defense in 1949.
The Department of War was initially established to oversee the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps.

Source Information

Axios

Trump to rebrand Pentagon as Department of War

September 04, 2025

President Donald Trump plans to rebrand the Pentagon, officially known as the Department of Defense, as the Department of War. He will sign an executive order for the new name to be used as a secondary title and for the Defense Secretary to be called the Secretary of War. This change requires congressional approval for a legal name change.

Key Facts:

Trump wants the Pentagon to be known as the Department of War.
An executive order will be signed to use this name as a secondary title.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth would be called Secretary of War.
The Department of Defense replaced the War Department, which existed until 1947.
Congress needs to approve any legal name change for government departments.
The executive order states "Department of War" conveys a stronger message.
Trump believes the name change reflects America's history of military victories.

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BBC Top Stories

US files lawsuit against California utility over Los Angeles wildfires

September 04, 2025

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed two lawsuits against Southern California Edison, claiming the utility company's negligence contributed to two major wildfires in the Los Angeles area. The lawsuits involve the Eaton Fire in January and the Fairview Fire in September 2022, which both caused significant damage and loss of life. Federal prosecutors are seeking $40 million in damages due to these incidents.

Key Facts:

The U.S. Justice Department filed lawsuits against Southern California Edison for causing two wildfires.
The Eaton Fire in January killed at least 19 people and injured nine firefighters.
The Fairview Fire in September 2022 burned through the San Bernardino National Forest.
Southern California Edison is accused of not maintaining its power lines properly, leading to these fires.
Federal prosecutors are asking for $40 million in damages.
Southern California Edison reported a "fault" in its lines during the Eaton Fire but hasn't confirmed their equipment caused it.
The utility company is working on wildfire prevention by improving its grid and operations.
California has had problems with utility companies causing fires, with PG&E previously pleading guilty to similar charges in a separate incident.

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Al Jazeera

Can Trump send National Guard troops to Chicago?

September 04, 2025

President Donald Trump has suggested sending National Guard troops to Chicago to address what he describes as high crime rates. Although violent crime has decreased according to FBI data, Trump has previously sent the National Guard to Washington DC. It's unclear if he can legally do the same in Chicago.

Key Facts:

President Trump suggested deploying National Guard troops to Chicago.
Trump cited concerns over crime as a reason for the potential deployment.
FBI data indicates that the murder rate in Chicago has decreased in recent years.
Trump has already sent National Guard troops to Washington DC.
Legal details on whether Trump can send troops to Chicago are not clear.
The discussion around troop deployment is linked to Trump's previous actions in DC.

Source Information

BBC US

President Trump plans to rename the Defense Department as the Department of War

September 04, 2025

President Trump plans to change the name of the Department of Defense back to its earlier name, the Department of War. He intends to do this through an executive order, which will allow Defense Department officials to use the term "war" in their titles.

Key Facts:

President Trump wants to rename the Department of Defense to the Department of War.
Trump plans to sign an executive order for this name change.
The Department was originally called the War Department until 1949.
A White House fact sheet says "Department of War" will be a "secondary title."
Defense Department officials could use titles like Secretary of War.
It is unclear if Congress needs to approve this change.
The original name change to Department of Defense unified military branches under one department.
Changing signs and titles could be expensive; past changes cost up to $39 million for fewer changes.

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NPR Home

Florida shouldn't have been ordered to dismantle Alligator Alcatraz, appeals court finds

September 04, 2025

A federal appeals court decided that Florida does not need to close its Alligator Alcatraz immigration facility, temporarily halting a previous judge's order to dismantle it. The facility had been challenged by environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe over claims it violated environmental laws. The court's latest decision leaves the facility open while further legal reviews occur.

Key Facts:

The appeals court ruled against dismantling Florida's Alligator Alcatraz facility, pausing a previous judge's order.
The site, which is used to detain immigrants, was previously an airstrip in the Everglades.
Environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe sued, claiming it violated the National Environmental Policy Act.
A U.S. District Judge had initially ruled in favor of the environmental groups.
Florida and federal officials argued the facility had no environmental impact as it was built on an existing airstrip.
The appeals court criticized the previous judge's decision to dismantle the facility as excessive.
The legal process will continue, as Thursday’s ruling only temporarily halts the order to dismantle the facility.

Source Information

Axios

DOJ deputy chief: Government will "redact every Republican" from Epstein client list

September 04, 2025

The Department of Justice (DOJ) came under scrutiny after its acting deputy chief, Joseph Schnitt, was recorded in a hidden video suggesting that Republican names would be removed from a list linked to Jeffrey Epstein's clients. This video was made by O'Keefe Media Group, which is known for its undercover work. The DOJ responded by stating that the comments in the video do not reflect their actual review process.

Key Facts:

Joseph Schnitt, acting deputy chief of the DOJ, was recorded without his knowledge by O'Keefe Media Group.
Schnitt reportedly said that Republican names would be removed from Epstein's client list in this secretly filmed encounter.
O'Keefe Media Group, known for undercover videos, published the clip featuring Schnitt's comments.
Schnitt claimed his remarks were based on media reports, not official DOJ information.
The DOJ refuted the video's comments, stating they don't match its review processes.
The House Oversight Committee received over 33,000 documents related to Epstein from the DOJ.
There is disagreement on the DOJ's handling of Epstein's investigation, with claims of lacking transparency.

Source Information

Axios

'Alligator Alcatraz' immigration centre can stay open, appeals court rules

September 04, 2025

A federal appeals court has ruled that the Alligator Alcatraz immigration detention center in Florida can remain open. This decision overturns a previous order that required shutting down the facility while a lawsuit is ongoing.

Key Facts:

The US Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit made the decision in a 2-1 ruling.
The appeals court blocked a lower court's order, which had required the center to close.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis supported the ruling to keep the center open.
The lower court order had also instructed the facility to stop expanding and start dismantling within 60 days.
The Department of Homeland Security had started moving detainees out of the site to follow the original court order.
The legal case involves environmental concerns, as mentioned by Governor DeSantis.

Source Information

BBC World

Northwestern University president to resign amid tensions with Donald Trump

September 04, 2025

Northwestern University President Michael Schill announced his resignation due to challenges with federal funding cuts under U.S. President Donald Trump's administration. Schill has led the university for nearly three years, navigating issues such as student protests and scandal in the athletic department. The university faced significant financial strain after the Trump administration froze federal research grants, prompting budget cuts and job eliminations.

Key Facts:

Michael Schill will step down as president of Northwestern University.
The university faced funding cuts from the U.S. federal government under President Trump.
Trump administration actions included freezing nearly $800 million in research grants to Northwestern.
The funding freeze forced the university to make significant budget cuts, resulting in 425 job eliminations.
Schill acknowledged ongoing challenges with the federal government and stressed the need to protect academic freedom.
Pro-Palestinian student protests at Northwestern were managed through an agreement with Schill that avoided police intervention.
Other universities faced similar pressures and financial challenges from the Trump administration.
A federal judge ruled that Trump unlawfully cut Harvard University's federal research grants, a decision that may be appealed.

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Al Jazeera

4 major moments from RFK Jr.’s contentious hearing with senators

September 04, 2025

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced sharp questions from senators during a Senate Finance Committee hearing. Senators asked Kennedy about his public health plans and his actions in his first months as health secretary.

Key Facts:

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the U.S. Health Secretary.
He appeared before the Senate Finance Committee.
Senators, including those who supported his appointment, asked tough questions.
The hearing included crosstalk and shouting.
Some senators questioning him are doctors.
The focus was on his public health agenda and recent actions.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

White House says Trump will seek ‘Department of War’ rebrand for Pentagon

September 04, 2025

President Trump plans to sign an executive order to allow the Department of Defense to use the title "Department of War." A formal name change would need approval from Congress, which the administration plans to request. The Department was originally called the Department of War until it was renamed in 1947.

Key Facts:

President Trump plans to issue an executive order to use the title "Department of War."
A legal name change requires approval from Congress.
The Department was originally called the Department of War when it was created in 1789.
It was renamed the Department of Defense in 1947 after World War II.
Trump's administration aims to project a tougher military image with this rebranding.
Secretary Hegseth has discussed renaming and other cultural changes at the Pentagon.
Hegseth removed diversity programs and books he found divisive from military facilities.
Transgender troops were removed from the military under a policy change supported by Hegseth.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Northwestern’s president will resign following tenure marked by White House tension

September 04, 2025

Northwestern University President Michael Schill announced he will step down after three years, following financial and political challenges. During his tenure, Northwestern faced a freeze of $790 million in federal funding and criticism over its handling of campus protests. Schill will remain in his role until an interim president is selected and plans to assist in efforts to restore the university’s funding.

Key Facts:

Michael Schill announced his resignation as president of Northwestern University.
The Trump administration froze $790 million in federal funding for the university due to investigations into antisemitism claims.
Northwestern laid off about 200 employees due to financial pressures from the funding freeze.
Schill defended the university's agreement with protesters during campus demonstrations.
Former football coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired following a hazing scandal under Schill's tenure.
Schill plans to return to teaching at Northwestern Law School after stepping down.
Schill aims to help restore the university’s federal funding with the Board of Trustees.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Who is Joseph Ladapo, the Florida surgeon general who opposes vaccine mandates?

September 04, 2025

Joseph Ladapo, the Florida Surgeon General, wants to remove all vaccine mandates in the state, even for children. Ladapo, who opposed federal health guidelines during the pandemic, gained national attention and was considered for a top position at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

Key Facts:

Joseph Ladapo is the Surgeon General of Florida.
He plans to eliminate all vaccine mandates in Florida.
Ladapo has expressed skepticism towards vaccines and compared mandates to slavery.
He moved to the U.S. from Nigeria as a child and earned degrees in medicine and health policy from Harvard.
Ladapo was considered for leadership at the CDC by President Trump but was not selected.
He challenged mask mandates and eased school return rules during the pandemic.
He issued a warning about the risks of Covid-19 vaccines for young men, which received criticism from health experts.
Ladapo's role involves overseeing Florida's health department and public health initiatives.

Source Information

BBC US

In tense hearing, RFK Jr. challenged on vaccine views and trust in health agencies

September 04, 2025

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was questioned by the Senate Finance Committee about his views on vaccines and their impact on public trust in health agencies. The hearing took place shortly after he removed the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Key Facts:

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the Health Secretary.
Kennedy was questioned during a Senate Finance Committee hearing.
The discussion focused on his views about vaccines.
Senators were concerned about public trust in health agencies.
The hearing occurred after Kennedy fired the CDC director, Dr. Susan Monarez.
Lisa Desjardins provided the report on the hearing.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

RFK Jr defends leadership as lawmakers grill him on vaccines

September 04, 2025

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health Secretary, faced tough questions from lawmakers about his vaccine policies and recent changes in health agencies during a three-hour hearing. The discussion included accusations from Democrats and some Republicans, questioning the impact of his leadership on vaccine access and agency management changes. The hearing happened shortly after he made significant staffing changes at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and related departments.

Key Facts:

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the U.S. Health Secretary.
He was questioned by lawmakers about his vaccine policies during a three-hour hearing.
Kennedy has made several agency changes since becoming Health Secretary, including firing the CDC leader.
A panel of independent vaccine experts was replaced by new members under his leadership, raising concerns from public health experts.
Kennedy denied accusations that he restricted vaccine access and defended his agency decisions.
A former CDC head claimed she was fired for not supporting Kennedy's vaccine policies.
Kennedy faced bipartisan criticism but also received some support from Republicans during the hearings.
The U.S. FDA, under his leadership, approved Covid booster shots for limited groups, sparking additional questions from lawmakers.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Examining RFK Jr.’s claims about vaccines, COVID and the health of Americans

September 04, 2025

The article examines claims made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about vaccines, COVID-19, and the health of Americans. It discusses how these claims are received and their impact on public health discussions.

Key Facts:

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made public statements about vaccines and COVID-19.
Some of his claims involve questioning the safety and efficacy of vaccines.
Vaccines help prevent diseases and save lives, according to medical experts.
There is ongoing debate about the influence of public figures like RFK Jr. on vaccine acceptance.
RFK Jr. has chosen to stop some government-funded vaccine research efforts.
Public health agencies, like the CDC, recommend vaccines based on scientific evidence.
The article discusses concerns about how misinformation can affect public health.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Here are the biggest takeaways from RFK Jr.'s fiery Senate appearance

September 04, 2025

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced tough questions from senators during a hearing about his vaccine policies. He defended his recent firings at the CDC and was criticized by some senators who are worried about the impact of his actions on public health.

Key Facts:

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the Health Secretary dealing with issues related to COVID-19 vaccines.
Kennedy recently fired the CDC Director and 17 panel members, causing concern.
He claims these actions are to remove bias, while others see it as politically motivated.
Some senators, like John Barrasso, are worried his policies threaten public safety by affecting vaccine availability.
There is tension between Kennedy's vaccine stance and President Trump's previous efforts with Operation Warp Speed.
Sen. Bill Cassidy raised concerns about the cancellation of grants for new vaccines and its impact on vaccine access.
Kennedy did not provide clear answers about future vaccine recommendations from the CDC.

Source Information

Axios

Senate clashes with RFK Jr over vaccine policies and CDC firings

September 04, 2025

U.S. Senators questioned Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr during a hearing about vaccine access and the COVID-19 pandemic response. Kennedy criticized CDC policies, especially about masks and school closures, and faced strong opposition for his views against the scientific consensus on vaccines. The hearing highlighted disagreements on public health policy between lawmakers and Kennedy, who has been a controversial figure due to his anti-vaccine stance.

Key Facts:

The hearing focused on the Trump administration’s plan to reduce vaccine access.
Kennedy criticized CDC policies related to masks and school closures during the pandemic.
Senators, both Democrats and some Republicans, criticized Kennedy's stance.
Kennedy wants changes at the CDC and has fired officials like Sue Monarez.
Kennedy has faced backlash for promoting ideas that conflict with established science.
Kennedy is a known anti-vaccine activist, which aligns with his controversial policies.
The hearing came shortly after the CDC director, Sue Monarez, was removed from her position.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

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