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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Families concerned over disappearance of 2 doctoral students: "It's very unusual"

Families concerned over disappearance of 2 doctoral students: "It's very unusual"

Summary

Police in Tampa are looking for two doctoral students from the University of South Florida who have not been seen for a week. The students, Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, both originally from Bangladesh, went missing on April 16.

Key Facts

  • Two doctoral students from the University of South Florida are missing.
  • Their names are Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy.
  • Both students are from Bangladesh.
  • They were last seen on April 16.
  • Their families have expressed concern about their disappearance.
  • Police in Tampa are actively searching for them.
  • The situation is described as very unusual by those close to the students.
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Army soldier's wife still faces deportation to Mexico after confusion over possible release

Army soldier's wife still faces deportation to Mexico after confusion over possible release

Summary

A woman married to an Army soldier has been held by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) for over a week. Although she was told she might be released, ICE is now moving forward with deporting her to Mexico, rather than her home country, El Salvador, which she is legally protected from being sent to.

Key Facts

  • The woman is the wife of a U.S. Army soldier.
  • She has been detained by ICE for more than one week.
  • She was told she might be released from custody.
  • ICE is instead preparing to deport her to Mexico.
  • She cannot be deported to El Salvador due to legal protections.
  • Her family’s lawyer confirmed the deportation process is underway.
  • The situation has caused confusion and concern for the soldier’s family.
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Donald Trump’s Approval Rating Rises With Catholics After Bashing Pope Leo

Donald Trump’s Approval Rating Rises With Catholics After Bashing Pope Leo

Summary

President Donald Trump’s approval rating among Catholic voters increased in April 2026 despite his ongoing public dispute with Pope Leo XIV. Polls show that while his overall approval remained low nationwide, support from Catholics stayed higher and recovered after dipping.

Key Facts

  • President Trump had a public disagreement with Pope Leo XIV starting in early 2026.
  • The dispute involved criticism from the Pope about U.S. immigration and foreign policies.
  • Three Fox News polls from February to April 2026 tracked Trump’s approval ratings.
  • Nationally, Trump’s approval ranged from 41% to 43%, with a net negative rating of about minus 14 to minus 18.
  • Among Catholic voters, Trump’s approval was higher, between 48% and 52%, fluctuating but mostly remaining positive.
  • By April 2026, Trump’s approval among Catholics rose back to 51%, despite the feud.
  • The polling suggests Catholics are more tolerant of Trump’s criticisms of the Vatican than expected.
  • The polls surveyed about 1,000 registered voters each, with a margin of error of ±3 percentage points.
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Massive wildfires in Georgia destroy dozens of homes

Massive wildfires in Georgia destroy dozens of homes

Summary

Large wildfires in southeast Georgia have destroyed many homes and continue to spread. Firefighters are working hard to control the fires, which have burned over 29,000 acres and threaten many more homes.

Key Facts

  • Nearly 100 firefighters are fighting the Pineland Road Fire.
  • The fire has grown to more than 29,000 acres.
  • In Brantley County, more than 50 homes have been destroyed.
  • About 1,000 more homes are at risk from the fires.
  • The wildfires are affecting neighborhoods and causing significant damage.
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Who is Jack Hurley? GOP-Appointed Judge Blocks Virginia Redistricting

Who is Jack Hurley? GOP-Appointed Judge Blocks Virginia Redistricting

Summary

A Virginia judge, Jack S. "Chip" Hurley Jr., has blocked the official approval of a voter-approved redistricting referendum. He ruled the redistricting measure invalid because lawmakers did not follow legal steps and the ballot language was misleading. The decision stops the map changes from taking effect while the dispute continues in court.

Key Facts

  • Judge Jack S. Hurley Jr. is a circuit court judge in Virginia’s southwest, appointed in 2012 by Republican Governor Bob McDonnell.
  • The judge ruled the redistricting amendment "void ab initio," meaning it was legally invalid from the start.
  • His ruling said lawmakers failed to follow constitutional procedures required to pass the amendment.
  • Hurley also said the ballot language used for the referendum was misleading to voters.
  • Virginia voters approved the Democratic-backed congressional map that could add up to four seats for that party.
  • The Virginia Supreme Court allowed the referendum vote to go ahead but has not decided on the legal challenges yet.
  • State Attorney General Jay Jones said his office will file an appeal against Hurley’s ruling.
  • The ruling stops state officials from certifying the referendum results but does not cancel the votes already cast.
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Trump administration in discussions with Spirit Airlines over possible bailout

Trump administration in discussions with Spirit Airlines over possible bailout

Summary

The Trump administration is having detailed talks with Spirit Airlines about a possible financial aid package that could be as much as $500 million. The discussions aim to help the budget airline with its financial challenges.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration is negotiating with Spirit Airlines.
  • The talks focus on a potential bailout.
  • The bailout could be up to $500 million in value.
  • Spirit Airlines is a low-cost or budget airline.
  • The goal is to support the airline during financial difficulty.
  • Sources close to the talks provided this information.
  • The news was reported by CBS News.
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WATCH:  Kids of 'GMA' take over the studio

WATCH: Kids of 'GMA' take over the studio

Summary

On "Bring a Kid to Work Day," children of the 'Good Morning America' (GMA) staff took over the studio and asked their parents questions. This event was featured as part of a news segment on April 23, 2026.

Key Facts

  • The event took place on April 23, 2026.
  • It was held during "Bring a Kid to Work Day," a day when employees bring their children to their workplace.
  • Children of GMA employees participated by taking control of the studio.
  • Kids asked their parents questions as part of the visit.
  • The story was aired by ABC News as part of their programming.
  • The event gave a behind-the-scenes look at a live news studio through the eyes of children.
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H-1B Visas Could Be Dramatically Slashed Under New Bill

H-1B Visas Could Be Dramatically Slashed Under New Bill

Summary

Republican Representative Eli Crane introduced a bill to pause new H-1B visas for three years and make big changes afterward. The bill aims to reduce the number of visas, change how they are given out, and add new rules for employers and workers.

Key Facts

  • The bill would cut the yearly H-1B visa limit from 65,000 to 25,000.
  • Instead of a lottery, visas would be given based on wage levels.
  • Employers must prove they cannot find qualified American workers and have not laid off Americans.
  • H-1B workers would need to be paid at least $200,000 a year.
  • H-1B workers would not be allowed to hold several jobs at once.
  • H-1B visa holders could not bring their family members to the U.S.
  • The bill was sponsored by Eli Crane and co-sponsored by seven other Republican House members.
  • The bill must pass both the House and Senate before becoming law.
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Eye Opener: Multiple wildfires force evacuations in Southeast

Eye Opener: Multiple wildfires force evacuations in Southeast

Summary

Multiple wildfires have grown quickly in Southeast Georgia, causing people to leave their homes and damaging properties. In addition, the Trump administration is discussing financial help to support Spirit Airlines.

Key Facts

  • Several wildfires in Southeast Georgia expanded rapidly.
  • These fires caused evacuations of residents in the affected areas.
  • Some homes have been damaged or destroyed by the fires.
  • The Trump administration is considering a bailout for Spirit Airlines.
  • A bailout means giving financial support to help the airline stay operating.
  • The news was featured on CBS News Eye Opener.
  • The wildfires and bailout talks are current events in the United States.
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Republican lawmakers attempt to shield big oil from climate lawsuits in ‘alarming’ bills

Republican lawmakers attempt to shield big oil from climate lawsuits in ‘alarming’ bills

Summary

Republican lawmakers in Congress have introduced bills to protect oil and gas companies from lawsuits and laws that hold them responsible for climate change damage. These proposals would dismiss current legal cases and stop states from passing new laws that require polluters to pay for climate-related harm.

Key Facts

  • The bills are led by Representative Harriet Hageman of Wyoming and Senator Ted Cruz of Texas.
  • The proposed Stop Climate Shakedowns Act of 2026 would give oil and gas companies broad legal protection from climate-related lawsuits.
  • The bills aim to block lawsuits brought by over 70 states and local governments against oil companies for misleading the public on climate risks.
  • Some states like New York and Vermont have passed laws requiring major polluters to pay for environmental damage caused by past emissions.
  • The legislation would cancel ongoing lawsuits and prevent future state laws that hold polluters financially responsible.
  • Critics say the bills would undermine efforts to hold polluters accountable and reduce the ability of states and localities to address climate harms.
  • Oil industry lobbying groups support the bills, calling for federal authority over energy policy and opposing what they see as overreach by states.
  • Similar laws have been passed recently in Tennessee and Utah aiming to protect oil companies from climate liability.
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Trump’s pardons are harming violent crime survivors | Johnny Olszewski

Trump’s pardons are harming violent crime survivors | Johnny Olszewski

Summary

President Donald Trump has issued many pardons during his second term that canceled fines and penalties meant to support programs helping victims of violent crimes. A new proposal aims to add rules so Congress can review certain pardons and prevent misuse of this presidential power.

Key Facts

  • President Trump issued 117 pardons in his second term.
  • These pardons wiped out at least $113 million in fines for violent crime victims' support programs, like shelters and treatment centers.
  • Many pardons went to wealthy and well-connected offenders, including a former Honduran president convicted of drug crimes.
  • Critics say these pardons shift costs from powerful offenders to vulnerable victims.
  • Congressman Johnny Olszewski is proposing a constitutional amendment called the Pardon Integrity Act.
  • The amendment would require a congressional vote on pardons if enough members call for it, with a two-thirds majority needed to overturn.
  • The proposal has bipartisan support and aims to keep the pardon power but add transparency and accountability.
  • Past presidents from both parties have also faced criticism for controversial pardons.
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When Are May 2026 SSI Payments Coming?

When Are May 2026 SSI Payments Coming?

Summary

Millions of Americans who qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will receive their May 2026 payments on May 1. SSI is a federal program that helps older adults and people with disabilities by giving them monthly financial support based on their income and resources.

Key Facts

  • SSI is a government program that provides money to people with very low income and few assets.
  • Payments are made by the Social Security Administration each month.
  • In May 2026, SSI payments will be sent on May 1.
  • About 7.3 million people in the U.S. get SSI, including 1 million children.
  • The maximum SSI benefit in 2026 is $994 per month for an individual and $1,491 for a couple.
  • The average payment is $735.91 per month, as some get less due to income or living situations.
  • Most SSI recipients qualify automatically for Medicaid health coverage.
  • Lawmakers are proposing changes to update SSI by increasing income and asset limits, removing penalties related to marriage, extending benefits to U.S. territories, and adjusting benefits for inflation.
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State spending has skyrocketed — but where has the money gone?

State spending has skyrocketed — but where has the money gone?

Summary

State governments in the U.S. have greatly increased their spending in recent years. However, people tend to move away from the states with the highest spending levels instead of moving there.

Key Facts

  • U.S. states have significantly increased their government spending.
  • States with the highest spending are losing residents.
  • People are choosing to leave states that spend the most money.
  • The article does not specify exactly where the money was spent.
  • The trend shows a disconnect between state spending and population growth.
  • This suggests factors other than spending influence people's choice of location.
  • The topic concerns state budgets and population movements within the U.S.
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'Storage Wars' star Darrell Sheets dies age 67

'Storage Wars' star Darrell Sheets dies age 67

Summary

Darrell Sheets, a star of the reality TV show Storage Wars, has died at age 67. The police said he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and his family has been informed. Authorities are investigating the case, and there are reports Sheets faced cyberbullying before his death.

Key Facts

  • Darrell Sheets was known for the show Storage Wars, where people buy unseen storage units at auctions.
  • He died at his home in Arizona on April 22, 2024.
  • Police described his death as a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
  • Sheets appeared with his son Brandon on the show between 2010 and 2023.
  • His co-star Rene Nezhoda called Sheets a hardworking person who cared about his family.
  • Nezhoda mentioned Sheets had been targeted by cyberbullying shortly before he died.
  • Police continue to investigate the circumstances of his death.
  • Viewers and authorities are reminded about the importance of mental health support and to avoid cyberbullying.
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DeSantis on Jeffries ‘F around and find out’ remark: ‘I will pay for you to come down to Florida’

DeSantis on Jeffries ‘F around and find out’ remark: ‘I will pay for you to come down to Florida’

Summary

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis invited House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to campaign in Florida. This came after Jeffries issued a warning about Florida’s redistricting plans. DeSantis offered to cover Jeffries’ expenses and provide accommodations for the visit.

Key Facts

  • Governor Ron DeSantis is from Florida and a member of the Republican Party.
  • House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is a Democrat from New York.
  • Jeffries made a statement warning Florida regarding its redistricting efforts.
  • DeSantis responded by inviting Jeffries to Florida to campaign.
  • DeSantis offered to pay for Jeffries’ trip and stay in Florida.
  • The interaction happened during a press conference.
  • The exchange relates to political campaigning and redistricting, which is the redrawing of voting districts.
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A Fourth SCOTUS Appointment for Trump? History Is on His Side.

A Fourth SCOTUS Appointment for Trump? History Is on His Side.

Summary

There is speculation that Justice Samuel Alito might retire from the U.S. Supreme Court during President Donald Trump's current term, potentially allowing Trump to appoint a fourth justice. Although Alito has not confirmed any plans to retire, health concerns have raised questions, and Republican leaders say they are ready to move quickly if a vacancy occurs.

Key Facts

  • Justice Samuel Alito was hospitalized recently but returned to work shortly after.
  • Alito is 76 years old and has served on the Supreme Court since 2006.
  • No Supreme Court justice has officially announced retirement plans yet.
  • Historically, Supreme Court vacancies happen about every two to three years.
  • President Trump has already appointed three justices, creating a 6–3 conservative majority.
  • Republican leaders in the Senate are preparing to confirm a new justice quickly if Alito retires.
  • Trump mentioned having a list of potential nominees ready for any opening.
  • Justice Clarence Thomas, older than Alito, is also discussed but not expected to retire soon.
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Over-75s drive levels of physical activity in England to record high but inequalities remain

Over-75s drive levels of physical activity in England to record high but inequalities remain

Summary

Physical activity in England has reached a record high, with over 30 million adults meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Older adults, especially those over 75, have shown the biggest increase in activity, but certain groups like some ethnic minorities and poorer communities have not seen much improvement.

Key Facts

  • Over 30 million adults in England now do at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.
  • People aged over 75 increased their physical activity by 11% over the past decade.
  • Activity levels among people with disabilities have also improved steadily.
  • Black and Asian adults’ activity levels have stayed about the same for 10 years, around 56-57%.
  • The poorest adults have seen a slight decrease in meeting activity goals over 10 years, from 54.8% to 53.8%.
  • The West Midlands is the least active region in England, with only 1.7% growth in activity in 10 years.
  • Walking and fitness activities like gym classes have grown since the pandemic, with 1.3 million more people walking and a 10-year high of 15.3 million doing fitness activities.
  • Overall, 3.3 million more people are active now than when the survey started.
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A well-meaning law has opened a child smuggling loophole at our border

A well-meaning law has opened a child smuggling loophole at our border

Summary

A 2008 U.S. law meant to protect children from trafficking is leading to unintended problems at the border. Criminal groups are using the law to bring unaccompanied minors into the United States, claiming they need legal protection.

Key Facts

  • The law is called the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008.
  • It was designed to protect children who arrive at the U.S. border without parents or guardians.
  • Criminal cartels are exploiting this law to traffic children into the U.S.
  • The law requires the U.S. to provide legal protection to these children.
  • This has created a loophole that encourages more children to be brought to the border by traffickers.
  • The issue involves border security and immigration policies.
  • The situation raises concerns about child safety and the effectiveness of current laws.
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US Senate clears key hurdle in bid to fund two immigration agencies

US Senate clears key hurdle in bid to fund two immigration agencies

Summary

The US Senate passed a measure to fund two immigration agencies, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), using a special procedure that did not need Democrats' approval. The bill now awaits approval from the House of Representatives, but lawmakers have not yet agreed on when to vote on it. The funding aims to keep the agencies operating until the end of President Donald Trump's current term.

Key Facts

  • The Senate vote was 50 to 48 in favor of funding ICE and CBP.
  • Democrats have opposed funding the agencies without reforms after two deadly shootings in Minnesota by agency agents.
  • The funding vote did not require Democratic support because Republicans used a procedural rule allowing a simple majority.
  • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees ICE and CBP, has been without full funding since February 15, causing the longest partial government shutdown in US history.
  • The shutdown has caused problems like airport security delays due to staff shortages.
  • President Trump wants a budget deal signed by June 1 to end the shutdown.
  • DHS Secretary Mark Mullin said the department will run out of money to pay employees by early May if no agreement is reached.
  • The House of Representatives still needs to approve the Senate’s measures, but there is no set date for the vote.
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SNAP benefits don't pay for rotisserie chicken. A bipartisan bill might change that

SNAP benefits don't pay for rotisserie chicken. A bipartisan bill might change that

Summary

A group of U.S. senators from both parties introduced a bill called the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act. This bill would allow people on the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) to buy rotisserie chicken with their benefits, which is currently not allowed because SNAP does not cover hot prepared foods.

Key Facts

  • SNAP provides money for groceries to low-income families but does not cover hot prepared foods like rotisserie chicken.
  • The bill aims to include rotisserie chicken as an eligible purchase under SNAP.
  • The restriction on hot foods in SNAP is an old rule meant to encourage home cooking.
  • Senators supporting the bill include Democrats John Fetterman and Michael Bennet and Republicans Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito.
  • Nearly 42 million Americans use SNAP, with an average monthly benefit of about $350 per household.
  • Some states have sought to exclude junk food like soda and candy from SNAP benefits.
  • Supporters say the bill would give families a healthy, convenient protein option that is easy to prepare.
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