July 10, 2025

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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Zohran Mamdani on his run for NYC mayor, taxing the rich and tackling hate head-on

Zohran Mamdani on his run for NYC mayor, taxing the rich and tackling hate head-on

July 01, 2025
Zohran Mamdani, a South Asian Muslim Democratic socialist, won the primary to be the Democratic candidate for New York City mayor. Despite skepticism and false claims against him, Mamdani focuses on policies like free public transit and affordable childcare, though he acknowledges the need for state support to achieve these goals.

Key Facts:

  • Zohran Mamdani is running for New York City mayor and is now the presumptive Democratic candidate after winning the primary.
  • He faced opposition and false claims about his identity and beliefs during his campaign.
  • Mamdani emphasizes making life more affordable with policies like free public transit and childcare.
  • He acknowledges that many of his proposals require support from the state government, especially from Governor Kathy Hochul.
  • Mamdani believes progressive reforms are possible, as shown by his success in creating a fare-free bus pilot in New York City.
  • He plans to fund his programs by increasing taxes on corporations and people earning over a million dollars.
  • Mamdani argues that helping working people is a priority, as more of them are being displaced in the city.

Source Information

NPR Home
Mail-in voting rates dropped but early in-person voting is a hit, federal report shows

Mail-in voting rates dropped but early in-person voting is a hit, federal report shows

July 01, 2025
Fewer people voted by mail in the 2024 election compared to 2020, but more people voted early in-person. While mail voting decreased, overall voter turnout remained high, similar to during the pandemic.

Key Facts:

  • Mail voting accounted for 30.3% of votes in 2024, down from 43% in 2020.
  • Early in-person voting increased in popularity from 2020 to 2024.
  • Nearly 65% of eligible voters participated in the 2024 election.
  • More than two-thirds of voters cast their ballots in person in 2024, either early or on Election Day.
  • Election officials noted the need to accommodate various voting methods.
  • Some states reduced mail voting options compared to 2020.
  • Misinformation and new laws have influenced the decline in mail voting.
  • Republicans encouraged voting early by mail in the 2024 election despite previous opposition.

Source Information

NPR Home
US accuses Harvard of anti-Semitic harassment of Jewish students, staff

US accuses Harvard of anti-Semitic harassment of Jewish students, staff

July 01, 2025
The Trump administration accused Harvard University of mistreating Jewish and Israeli students and threatened to cut federal funding. Harvard denied these accusations and said it is working to tackle anti-Semitism on campus.

Key Facts:

  • The Trump administration claimed Harvard violated Jewish and Israeli students' rights.
  • A federal task force alleged discrimination and harassment of Jewish students at Harvard.
  • The government threatened to remove Harvard's federal funding if it does not make changes.
  • Harvard stated it has taken steps to reduce anti-Semitism and promote inclusion.
  • Over $2.5 billion in federal grants to Harvard have been frozen by the administration.
  • Similar actions by the government have been taken against other universities like Columbia and the University of Virginia.
  • Protests against Israel's actions in Gaza have sparked debates about anti-Semitism on U.S. campuses.
  • The Trump administration has also looked into employment practices at the University of California for possible discrimination.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Trans troops in US military 'in survival mode' as ban on serving kicks in

Trans troops in US military 'in survival mode' as ban on serving kicks in

June 30, 2025
A new ban, announced by former President Trump, restricts transgender people from serving in the US military. This affects service members like Maj Kara Corcoran, who must now comply with male regulations, despite identifying as female. Critics argue this policy is unfair, and legal challenges have already been filed.

Key Facts:

  • Maj Kara Corcoran has served in the US Army for 17 years and recently had to comply with male appearance rules for a graduation ceremony.
  • A ban announced by former President Trump in 2025 prevents most transgender people from serving in the US military.
  • The policy states those with gender dysphoria cannot serve, as it is considered incompatible with military standards.
  • There are officially about 4,200 transgender service members in the US military, though some estimates suggest the number could be 10,000.
  • Previous rules under President Obama allowed transgender service, but policies have changed with different administrations.
  • Public support for transgender military service is decreasing, with a Gallup poll showing lower support compared to previous years.
  • Legal challenges to the ban have been initiated by transgender officers and human rights groups.

Source Information

BBC World
Is RFK Jr's divisive plan to Make America Healthy Again fearmongering - or revolutionary?

Is RFK Jr's divisive plan to Make America Healthy Again fearmongering - or revolutionary?

June 30, 2025
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as the U.S. health secretary, aims to tackle chronic illnesses in America and has taken actions like cutting jobs at health agencies and targeting food additives. While his plans face criticism from some health experts due to his history of controversial views, efforts like phasing out certain food dyes have seen support and changes from companies.

Key Facts:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the U.S. health secretary focusing on chronic illnesses such as obesity and heart disease.
  • The U.S. faces what Kennedy calls an epidemic of chronic illness affecting many people.
  • Kennedy cut jobs and programs at the Department of Health and CDC, causing concern among some health experts.
  • He has a history of promoting unproven health theories, which has led to criticism from medical professionals.
  • Kennedy targets multinational food companies, blaming them for using harmful additives in food.
  • His initiative includes phasing out petroleum-based food dyes by 2026, with backing from major food companies.
  • Companies like PepsiCo announced plans to remove artificial colors from products.
  • Kennedy’s policies have led some states to legislate against certain food additives independently.

Source Information

BBC World
Household energy bills fall but may not go much lower

Household energy bills fall but may not go much lower

June 30, 2025
Energy bills for 21 million households in England, Scotland, and Wales will decrease due to a new price cap set by Ofgem. However, the exact future of energy prices is uncertain, with potential rises in winter and influences from global events. People are encouraged to explore fixed deals for possible savings.

Key Facts:

  • Ofgem has reduced the energy price cap, lowering bills by about £11 a month for typical households.
  • The 7% decrease in energy bills starts from Tuesday and affects variable tariffs, not fixed deals.
  • Fixed deals set a price per unit of energy, not the total bill, which depends on actual usage.
  • Current fixed deals could offer a potential saving of £200 annually, but only 35% of people use them.
  • Energy price predictions are uncertain due to potential influences such as Middle East instability.
  • Cornwall Insight predicts a further 1% reduction, but stresses unpredictability in future prices.
  • Energy bills are still higher than before the pandemic, even after adjusting for inflation.
  • Community programs, like the project by Stevenage Football Club, teach families to manage food and energy costs effectively.

Source Information

BBC Business
Obama, Bush decry ‘travesty’ of Trump’s gutting of USAID on its last day

Obama, Bush decry ‘travesty’ of Trump’s gutting of USAID on its last day

June 30, 2025
Former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush criticized the Trump administration's decision to merge the US Agency for International Development (USAID) with the State Department. They expressed concern over the impact of the changes on USAID's global humanitarian work.

Key Facts:

  • Obama and Bush publicly addressed the actions of the Trump administration regarding USAID.
  • USAID, a six-decade-old agency, created by President John F. Kennedy, is being absorbed into the State Department.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the decision to integrate USAID into the State Department.
  • USAID is known for its global humanitarian and development efforts, such as providing food and water in conflict zones.
  • Trump referred to USAID as a flawed organization, claiming it was run by "radical left lunatics."
  • Bono, a U2 band member, also participated in the video call to support USAID staff.
  • The agency was targeted for government cuts, affecting many staffers and programs.
  • USAID has been involved in health initiatives like the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), credited with saving 25 million lives.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Mamdani’s New York victory sparks Islamophobic backlash in US

Mamdani’s New York victory sparks Islamophobic backlash in US

June 30, 2025
Muslim New Yorkers have been attending Eid holiday prayers in Washington Square Park for years. Recently, some right-wing figures have used these gatherings to spread unfounded fears linked to Muslim American mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. This has led to an increase in Islamophobic comments following Mamdani's victory in the Democratic primaries, with several public figures making derogatory remarks.

Key Facts:

  • Muslim New Yorkers gather in Washington Square Park for Eid prayers annually.
  • Footage of these gatherings has been used by right-wing influencers to spread fear.
  • Zohran Mamdani, a Muslim American, recently won the Democratic primaries for New York City mayor.
  • Islamophobic rhetoric has increased after Mamdani's primary victory.
  • Some public figures have falsely linked Mamdani to extremist ideologies.
  • Politicians, including those connected to former President Trump, have made derogatory statements.
  • Calls for condemnation of bigotry are being made by some politicians and activists.
  • Some Democrats have publicly denounced the anti-Muslim remarks.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
White House says Canada's Carney 'caved' to Trump on tech tax

White House says Canada's Carney 'caved' to Trump on tech tax

June 30, 2025
The White House stated that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney decided not to impose a digital services tax on large U.S. tech companies after discussions with President Donald Trump. This decision followed Trump's threat to raise tariffs and halt trade negotiations. Canada's finance minister announced the tax's cancellation, which aimed to tax major tech firms' revenues in Canada.

Key Facts:

  • Canada planned a tax on big U.S. tech companies like Amazon, Meta, Google, and Apple.
  • The tax proposed a 3% charge on Canadian revenue over $20 million.
  • President Trump threatened to stop trade talks and raise tariffs in response to the tax.
  • Canada decided to cancel the tax to resume trade negotiations with the U.S.
  • Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne confirmed the tax's removal.
  • The tax, introduced in 2020, aimed to tax tech companies not fully taxed on their Canadian earnings.
  • The estimated cost to tech firms was over C$2 billion in the first year.
  • The tax cancellation caused political criticism within Canada, particularly by opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, who urged a different approach to U.S. negotiations.

Source Information

BBC US
Mexican authorities find 20 bodies, some decapitated, in Sinaloa state

Mexican authorities find 20 bodies, some decapitated, in Sinaloa state

June 30, 2025
Mexican authorities found 20 bodies on a highway in Sinaloa, an area affected by violent drug cartel fights. The bodies were found in different places, and a note was left, likely from one of the cartels involved. Violence in the region is tied to disputes over drug trafficking routes related to the Sinaloa Cartel.

Key Facts:

  • 20 bodies were found, some decapitated, on a highway in Sinaloa, Mexico.
  • Bodies were discovered on a roadside, inside a vehicle, and in a bag.
  • A note was left with the bodies, possibly from a drug cartel, but its contents are unknown.
  • The Sinaloa region is experiencing violence due to rival cartels fighting for drug trafficking routes.
  • Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman and Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada’s factions are involved in these conflicts.
  • Violence increased after Ismael Zambada's arrest and trial in the U.S.
  • Over 1,200 people have died in Sinaloa due to this violence.
  • Drug-related crimes in Mexico have resulted in about 480,000 deaths since 2006.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Senate pushes to pass Trump’s budget as some Republicans voice concerns over Medicaid cuts

Senate pushes to pass Trump’s budget as some Republicans voice concerns over Medicaid cuts

June 30, 2025
A significant bill, which includes large tax cuts and changes to immigration, energy, and Medicaid, is currently with the U.S. Senate. The outcome depends on whether enough Republican senators will support it.

Key Facts:

  • The bill proposes trillions in tax cuts.
  • It plans to make big changes to the U.S. immigration system.
  • It will affect the country’s energy policies.
  • Medicaid, a health program for low-income and disabled people, is part of the changes.
  • The Senate currently has control over the bill's future.
  • It's uncertain if enough Republican senators will vote in favor of the bill.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
News Wrap: Idaho investigators identify alleged gunman in firefighter ambush attack

News Wrap: Idaho investigators identify alleged gunman in firefighter ambush attack

June 30, 2025
Idaho authorities are looking into why someone ambushed and killed two firefighters. The Trump administration claims Harvard discriminated against Jewish and Israeli students. The Supreme Court is set to review rules about how much money political parties can spend on federal elections.

Key Facts:

  • Idaho investigators are searching for a reason behind the ambush shooting that killed two firefighters.
  • The Trump administration accuses Harvard of violating civil rights by not protecting Jewish and Israeli students.
  • The Supreme Court will examine existing rules on political party spending in federal elections.
  • An "ambush shooting" means an attack where victims are caught by surprise.
  • The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States.
  • Civil rights laws are intended to protect individuals from discrimination based on characteristics like race or religion.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Operation Not Forgotten dedicates FBI agents to cold cases as Native families seek answers

Operation Not Forgotten dedicates FBI agents to cold cases as Native families seek answers

June 30, 2025
Native Americans and Alaskan Natives have faced higher rates of violent crimes such as murder and rape for many years. Many of these crimes are not solved, partly because there aren't enough law enforcement resources.

Key Facts:

  • Native Americans and Alaskan Natives experience higher rates of violent crimes compared to other groups.
  • These crimes include murder, rape, and other forms of violence.
  • Generational trauma and systemic abuse are seen as contributing factors.
  • A lack of law enforcement resources in these communities affects crime-solving rates.
  • The report about these issues is from New Mexico.
  • This information is part of a series called "Race Matters."

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Who would be affected by health care cuts in Senate version of Trump’s budget bill

Who would be affected by health care cuts in Senate version of Trump’s budget bill

June 30, 2025
Recent updates to President Trump's tax and spending bill are expected to reduce health care spending by about $1.1 trillion over the next ten years, leading to millions losing their health insurance.

Key Facts:

  • The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) provided the estimates for the changes.
  • The bill plans to cut about $1.1 trillion from health care over ten years.
  • Approximately 11.8 million people might lose health insurance by 2034.
  • Most of the health insurance cuts would affect Medicaid.
  • Medicaid is a government program that helps people with low income access health care.
  • Laura Barrón-López discussed these findings with Larry Levitt, an expert from KFF (a health policy organization).

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Tamara Keith and Amy Walter on Trump’s big bill facing GOP opposition

Tamara Keith and Amy Walter on Trump’s big bill facing GOP opposition

June 30, 2025
NPR’s Tamara Keith and Amy Walter, from the Cook Political Report, joined Amna Nawa to talk about recent political events. They discussed lawmakers voting on a significant bill proposed by former President Trump, some Republican members disagreeing with him, and the Democratic strategy for upcoming elections.

Key Facts:

  • Tamara Keith and Amy Walter are journalists who cover political news.
  • They discussed a major bill linked to former President Trump called "One Big Beautiful Bill."
  • Some members of the Republican Party are opposing Trump on this issue.
  • The discussion included future election strategies for the Democratic Party.
  • Amna Nawa hosted the conversation with these two political analysts.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

The latest in the deadly firefighter ambush in Idaho

June 30, 2025
Authorities in Idaho are investigating a man who allegedly started a fire and then shot three firefighters. Two firefighters died from the attack, and the suspect is also dead. The reason for the suspect's actions is unknown.

Key Facts:

  • A man allegedly started a fire in Idaho and then shot at firefighters who responded.
  • Three firefighters were shot in the incident.
  • Two of the firefighters died from their injuries.
  • The suspect involved in the shooting is dead.
  • The reason behind the suspect's actions is not known at this time.
  • The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Source Information

NPR National

Republicans look to Medicaid work requirements to save taxpayer money in budget bill

June 30, 2025
Republicans are suggesting adding work requirements to Medicaid as a way to save money in a new budget bill. Some studies show that while this approach reduces costs, it can also remove eligible people due to complicated paperwork.

Key Facts:

  • Medicaid is a government program that helps cover healthcare costs for people with low income.
  • Republicans propose work requirements in Medicaid to reduce spending.
  • These requirements mean people need to work a certain number of hours or prove they are looking for work to receive Medicaid benefits.
  • Studies indicate that these requirements can cut costs.
  • However, paperwork involved in proving work status can cause eligible people to lose their benefits.
  • The proposal is part of a larger budget bill aimed at saving taxpayer money.

Source Information

NPR Business
Why a GOP senator says the budget bill breaks Trump's promise

Why a GOP senator says the budget bill breaks Trump's promise

June 30, 2025
The Senate Republicans' budget bill suggests cutting hundreds of billions from Medicaid, potentially causing nearly 12 million people to lose health insurance. Senator Thom Tillis from North Carolina expressed concern that the cuts would break former President Trump's promise to protect Medicaid.

Key Facts:

  • The budget bill is being debated by Senate Republicans.
  • The bill proposes significant cuts to Medicaid funding.
  • The Congressional Budget Office estimates that nearly 12 million people could lose health insurance if the bill passes.
  • Former President Trump promised not to cut Medicaid.
  • Senator Thom Tillis believes the cuts go against Trump's Medicaid promise.
  • Medicaid provides health coverage, mainly aiding low-income individuals.
  • Critics, including Democrats, argue that these cuts could have severe impacts on people relying on Medicaid.

Source Information

NPR Home
Israel’s Netanyahu to visit Washington next Monday as Trump presses for ceasefire in Gaza

Israel’s Netanyahu to visit Washington next Monday as Trump presses for ceasefire in Gaza

June 30, 2025
President Donald Trump will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House next Monday. They plan to discuss a ceasefire and hostage agreement to end the conflict in Gaza.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump will host Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House next Monday.
  • The focus of the meeting will be on finding solutions for a ceasefire in Gaza.
  • An anonymous U.S. official shared news of the visit, as it has not been officially announced.
  • The visit follows discussions earlier in the week between Israeli Minister Ron Dermer and U.S. officials.
  • President Trump has been working on ending the fighting between Israel and Hamas.
  • The President expressed optimism about achieving a ceasefire soon, though he provided no detailed plan.
  • The White House is in constant contact with Israeli leaders to prioritize ending the conflict in Gaza.
  • No formal date has been set for another visit by Netanyahu to Washington.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
The Supreme Court has created an endless summer of work for itself

The Supreme Court has created an endless summer of work for itself

June 30, 2025
The U.S. Supreme Court ended its term, but it will continue working on emergency cases over the summer. The court made significant decisions, including restricting lower court powers and handling many emergency appeals, mainly favoring the Trump administration.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court concluded its term last Friday but will still handle emergency cases during the summer.
  • The court limited the powers of lower courts to challenge executive actions.
  • It gave itself the power to block executive orders from the president.
  • The number of formal opinions issued this term was the lowest since the 1930s, with only 56 opinions released.
  • Many of the court's decisions favored the Trump administration's requests for increased presidential power.
  • The "shadow docket," used for urgent appeals, saw increased use for decisions lacking full briefing or signed explanations.
  • The court has allowed Trump's initiatives to proceed while leaving legal questions unresolved.

Source Information

NPR Home