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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

No Crocs or baby onesies - the draconian Delaney Hall dress code ICE uses to deem toddlers ‘too provocative’

No Crocs or baby onesies - the draconian Delaney Hall dress code ICE uses to deem toddlers ‘too provocative’

Summary

Visitors to Delaney Hall, an ICE detention center in Newark, New Jersey, have been repeatedly denied entry due to strict dress code rules, even for young children. These rules ban items like leggings, Crocs, and certain types of clothing considered "provocative," causing distress to families trying to see detainees.

Key Facts

  • Delaney Hall is an ICE detention center located in Newark, New Jersey.
  • Visitors, including children as young as toddlers, have been denied entry for wearing clothes like onesies, leggings, or Crocs.
  • Guards described some clothing as too "provocative," even when worn by very young children.
  • The facility has strict dress code rules, banning form-fitting or revealing clothing, open-toed shoes, pants with holes, and clothing in "gang colors," though these colors are not clearly defined.
  • The dress code officially applies to visitors aged 12 and older, but younger children have been affected.
  • Delaney Hall has faced protests and legal action over alleged poor living conditions and health concerns.
  • New Jersey sued the facility’s private owner, Geo Group, over issues like unsanitary food preparation and infection control problems.
  • The Department of Homeland Security says health inspectors have access and denies hunger strikes inside the facility.
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America’s authoritarians operate with impunity. It’s time to take action | Jan-Werner Müller

America’s authoritarians operate with impunity. It’s time to take action | Jan-Werner Müller

Summary

The article discusses how some American figures linked to authoritarian and far-right movements act without facing consequences, supported by President Donald Trump’s pardons of January 6 insurrectionists. It suggests that if the government does not provide justice, citizens may need to use peaceful, community-based actions like protests to hold wrongdoers accountable.

Key Facts

  • Greg Bovino, a former Border Patrol commander, attended a “remigration summit” in Portugal and met with far-right activists.
  • Tina Peters, a former elections clerk who had her sentence commuted, promotes conspiracy theories about election fraud.
  • President Trump pardoned many people involved in the January 6 Capitol attack, granting them legal protection.
  • The article references historical and international examples, such as Argentina’s peaceful protests called “escraches,” where communities exposed human rights violators.
  • These protests involve nonviolent actions like marches, graffiti, and noise to draw attention to people avoiding accountability.
  • Such community justice methods have roots in older traditions like medieval “rough music,” used to enforce moral standards locally.
  • The article warns about the risks of vigilante justice turning uncontrolled or causing retaliations, stressing the importance of rule of law.
  • It emphasizes learning from other countries that transitioned from dictatorship to democracy to address impunity.
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Graham Platner’s victory reveals a winning midterms playbook | Pepper Culpepper

Graham Platner’s victory reveals a winning midterms playbook | Pepper Culpepper

Summary

Graham Platner won the Maine Democratic primary despite controversies because he talked about economic unfairness and how the system favors billionaires and big companies. This shows voters want candidates who address these concerns, which could influence upcoming elections in the US.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner won the Maine Democratic primary even with personal controversies.
  • Voters are concerned about economic unfairness and believe the system benefits billionaires and large corporations.
  • Research with over 36,000 voters shows this economic concern crosses party lines in the US, UK, France, and Germany.
  • Both Senator Bernie Sanders and President Donald Trump have discussed taking public equity in AI companies to address power issues.
  • "Good populism" is described as a focus on economic fairness without rejecting democracy or being hostile to minorities.
  • Voters trust candidates who speak about economic issues, even if those candidates have flaws.
  • This trend is visible in other elections, such as in Michigan, where Abdul el-Sayed is favored by prediction markets.
  • The Democratic establishment is challenged by candidates embracing this "good populism" approach.
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Social Security’s looming insolvency sparks alarm in Congress

Social Security’s looming insolvency sparks alarm in Congress

Summary

Congress is facing concerns about Social Security running out of funds sooner than expected. Speaker Mike Johnson wants Republicans to work on changing Social Security if they control Congress after 2026, but some Senate Republicans worry this could hurt them politically before the November elections.

Key Facts

  • Social Security is a program that provides retirement benefits to Americans.
  • A recent report says Social Security will run out of money faster than previously predicted.
  • Speaker Mike Johnson (a Republican from Louisiana) urged his party to plan reforms if they keep control of Congress after 2026.
  • Some Senate Republicans think talking about Social Security changes now could hurt their chances in the upcoming November elections.
  • Social Security insolvency means the program won’t be able to pay full benefits unless changes are made.
  • The issue is causing a debate within the Republican Party about how and when to address the problem.
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This week on The Hill: Senate tees up Clayton DNI nomination as FISA talks stall

This week on The Hill: Senate tees up Clayton DNI nomination as FISA talks stall

Summary

The Senate Intelligence Committee will hold a hearing to consider Jay Clayton, President Trump's nominee for director of national intelligence. Lawmakers are also trying to find a solution for the expiration of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which ended on June 12.

Key Facts

  • Jay Clayton is President Trump’s nominee for director of national intelligence.
  • The Senate Intelligence Committee will hold a confirmation hearing for Clayton this week.
  • Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) expired on June 12.
  • This law allowed the government to conduct certain warrantless surveillance for intelligence purposes.
  • Congress has not yet passed a new law to replace or extend this surveillance authority.
  • Lawmakers are working to find a way to renew or modify the expired surveillance powers.
  • The situation affects government intelligence and security operations.
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US catches up to rest of world with first new FDA-approved sunscreen in decades

US catches up to rest of world with first new FDA-approved sunscreen in decades

Summary

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new sunscreen ingredient called bemotrizinol, the first approval in over 20 years. This ingredient has been used in other countries for years but is now officially allowed for use in sunscreens sold in the U.S.

Key Facts

  • The FDA approved a new sunscreen filter ingredient named bemotrizinol.
  • Bemotrizinol is marketed under the brand name PARSOL®.
  • This is the first new sunscreen ingredient approved by the FDA in 27 years.
  • Bemotrizinol has been used internationally but was not approved for U.S. products before.
  • The approval is seen as a significant update for sun protection options in the U.S.
  • Sunscreens help protect skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn and skin cancer.
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Medicare weight-loss drug coverage could overwhelm doctors

Medicare weight-loss drug coverage could overwhelm doctors

Summary

Starting July 1, Medicare will offer weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound for $50 a month, making them more affordable for many seniors. This program may cause a high demand for these drugs, which could overwhelm doctors and clinics due to extra paperwork and patient counseling needs.

Key Facts

  • Medicare has not covered weight-loss drugs until now due to legal restrictions.
  • The new program results from a deal President Donald Trump made with drug companies Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to lower prices.
  • About 14 million Medicare beneficiaries are overweight or obese and may seek these drugs.
  • Patients must go through a “prior authorization” process to prove they qualify for the drugs.
  • Doctors worry this process and patient counseling may overload clinics and cause delays.
  • The program runs only until the end of 2027 and does not cover nutrition or behavioral support services.
  • The $50 monthly cost may still be too expensive for some seniors on fixed incomes.
  • Some seniors who already have these drugs prescribed for other reasons under Part D won’t qualify for the Medicare discount.
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They're uninsured after Obamacare became too costly. They're far from alone.

They're uninsured after Obamacare became too costly. They're far from alone.

Summary

Many Americans, including the Tobiassen family in North Carolina, are canceling their health insurance from the Affordable Care Act (ACA) because the costs have become too high. This rise in prices follows the end of extra government help that made insurance more affordable during the COVID pandemic.

Key Facts

  • The Tobiassen family used ACA insurance since 2014 but canceled it when monthly costs jumped from $130 to over $550.
  • Expanded tax credits under the Biden administration's American Rescue Plan Act helped lower insurance costs during the COVID pandemic but expired at the end of 2025.
  • ACA enrollment doubled to about 24 million when subsidies were active, but is expected to drop to as low as 16.5 million in 2026.
  • North Carolina saw a 22% drop in ACA signups for 2026, the largest decrease among all states.
  • The Tobiassens' two teenagers remain covered by Medicaid, a government program for low-income families.
  • Losing ACA coverage poses significant financial risk to families due to potentially high medical bills.
  • Nonprofit groups, such as Pisgah Legal Services, report many clients are dropping ACA insurance or choosing cheaper plans with less coverage this year.
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Boris Epshteyn: Trump's "psychiatrist" and counsel

Boris Epshteyn: Trump's "psychiatrist" and counsel

Summary

Boris Epshteyn is a close and influential adviser to President Donald Trump, often involved in important meetings and legal matters. He has played a key role in Trump's legal battles, media settlements, and political strategy, and also leads Trump Media.

Key Facts

  • Boris Epshteyn is President Trump's senior personal attorney and trusted adviser.
  • Trump frequently talks with Epshteyn, sometimes putting him on speakerphone without others’ knowledge.
  • Epshteyn has managed several major legal settlements for Trump, including with ABC, CBS, Meta, Google, and X.
  • He helped develop Trump’s legal fight strategy during multiple criminal and civil cases in the 2024 election cycle.
  • Epshteyn is also chair of Trump Media, with Donald Trump Jr. as a director.
  • He meets with President Trump about once a week and is often on calls with him.
  • Epshteyn has influence in the Justice Department due to his relationship with Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.
  • His wealth and lifestyle have been subjects of speculation, but friends say his financial status predates his White House role.
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Andrew Hastie compares AI to cold-war nuclear arms race and warns Australia may fall behind

Andrew Hastie compares AI to cold-war nuclear arms race and warns Australia may fall behind

Summary

Liberal MP Andrew Hastie compared the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) to the Cold War nuclear arms race and warned Australia risks losing strategic independence if it does not invest heavily in AI technology. He urged Australia to become a technology hub and prepare for possible conflict between the US and China over AI and advanced chip production in Taiwan.

Key Facts

  • Andrew Hastie, Liberal MP and shadow minister, gave a speech urging big investment in AI to protect Australia’s independence.
  • He compared the AI race to the Cold War nuclear arms race and said Australia missed chances with nuclear power in the past.
  • Hastie warned Australia could become dependent on the US if it fails to develop its own AI power.
  • The US and China are competing for dominance in AI and semiconductor chips, especially around Taiwan.
  • Hastie warned a war over AI and chips near Taiwan could be worse than conflicts in the Middle East.
  • He called for an AI ambassador and education reforms to boost Australian AI skills.
  • Hastie said AI could replace many jobs, causing social problems if people lose meaningful work.
  • The federal government is debating how strictly to regulate AI, with different views in the cabinet.
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Albanese signals fuel excise cut may be extended to help motorists paying more amid Middle East crisis

Albanese signals fuel excise cut may be extended to help motorists paying more amid Middle East crisis

Summary

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signaled the Australian government might extend a temporary cut to the fuel excise tax to help motorists facing high fuel costs caused by the Middle East conflict. He also welcomed the announcement of a peace deal between the US and Iran, which is expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, but warned it will take months for oil trade to return to normal.

Key Facts

  • The Australian government has been temporarily cutting the fuel excise tax to lower fuel prices during the Middle East conflict.
  • This fuel excise cut and the pause on the heavy vehicle road user charge have cost the government about $2.55 billion.
  • Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the fuel excise cut is planned to end on June 30 but the government might reconsider after reviewing spending.
  • The peace deal between the US and Iran aims to end the conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a major channel for global oil shipments.
  • Prime Minister Albanese said even after the peace deal, it will take many months for global oil trade and prices to stabilize.
  • The price of Brent crude oil dropped below $84 a barrel following the peace deal, which could lower inflation and reduce interest rate hikes in Australia.
  • The opposition leader, Angus Taylor, did not clearly support or oppose extending the fuel excise cut and wants to see how fuel prices develop.
  • The peace deal and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz are important for global energy supply, trade, and economic stability.
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‘Eyes up, screens down’: Victoria restricts tech in high school classrooms to two hours a day in national first

‘Eyes up, screens down’: Victoria restricts tech in high school classrooms to two hours a day in national first

Summary

The Victorian government in Australia will limit secondary school students’ classroom screen time to two hours a day starting in 2027. The plan encourages more traditional learning methods like writing with pen and paper, group talks, and experiments to reduce distractions and support students’ mental health.

Key Facts

  • From term 1, 2027, Victorian secondary schools must include device-free learning times.
  • Screen time for primary students will also be restricted: 90 minutes daily for years 3-6 and minimal use for prep to year 2.
  • The plan encourages activities such as using whiteboards, paper, group debates, practical experiments, or performances.
  • Exceptions will be made for students with disabilities or neurodiverse needs and certain specialist subjects.
  • Smartphones have been banned in Victorian state schools since 2020; the ban will expand to smartwatches and headphones from 2027.
  • The education minister says the goal is to reduce distractions and focus on teacher-led learning for better behavior and mental health.
  • Some educators support the move but caution that managing device limits may be challenging.
  • The policy follows recommendations from international experts and aims to counter the influence of technology companies focused on user attention.
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Social Security Payments Up To $5,181 Arriving for Some Americans This Week

Social Security Payments Up To $5,181 Arriving for Some Americans This Week

Summary

Millions of Americans will receive their Social Security payments this month. The payment dates are spread out during June based on the recipients’ birth dates, with some individuals eligible for up to $5,181 monthly depending on their work history and retirement age.

Key Facts

  • Social Security payments in June are sent on different days based on birth dates: June 17 for birthdays from the 11th to 20th, and June 24 for birthdays from the 21st to 31st.
  • Individuals who started receiving benefits before May 1997 or receive both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security were paid earlier in the month.
  • The staggered payment system began in 1997 to spread out payments instead of sending them all on the third day of each month.
  • People born between the 1st and 10th get payments on the second Wednesday, those born 11th to 20th on the third Wednesday, and those born 21st to 31st on the fourth Wednesday of each month.
  • The highest Social Security monthly payment can be $5,181, for people who earned at or above the taxable maximum most of their careers and delayed benefits until age 70.
  • The average monthly payment for retired workers is about $2,071.
  • Payments are based on a person’s 35 highest-earning years, adjusted for wage growth and inflation.
  • Beneficiaries should know their payment date to manage their budget and wait three business days if a payment is late before contacting the Social Security Administration.
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Melbourne wellness influencer found short of breath and clammy after home birth hours before death

Melbourne wellness influencer found short of breath and clammy after home birth hours before death

Summary

A 30-year-old Melbourne woman named Stacey Warnecke died from a treatable complication after giving birth at home without medical staff. Emergency crews found her in serious condition, and she died hours later in the hospital despite medical efforts.

Key Facts

  • Stacey Warnecke gave birth at home without trained medical professionals present.
  • Her husband and an unregulated birthkeeper named Emily Lal were present during the birth.
  • Approximately 25 minutes after birth, Warnecke lost a large amount of blood (about 1.5 liters).
  • Warnecke experienced breathing problems and altered consciousness before an ambulance was called.
  • Paramedics found her in a serious state, with yellow, clammy skin and a large blood clot on the floor.
  • She was transported to the hospital, where she suffered multiple cardiac arrests due to severe bleeding.
  • Doctors tried surgery including a hysterectomy, but Warnecke died shortly after 11 a.m.
  • Questions arose about the role and payment of the birthkeeper and the handling of the scene after Warnecke’s death.
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Eric Trump Denies Asking UFC Star About Rigged Fights, Says Messages AI

Eric Trump Denies Asking UFC Star About Rigged Fights, Says Messages AI

Summary

Eric Trump denied sending messages to former UFC star Daniel Cormier asking if any fights were rigged during a White House event. He said screenshots showing these messages are fake and created using artificial intelligence (AI).

Key Facts

  • Eric Trump is President Donald Trump’s second son.
  • Daniel Cormier is a former UFC star who posted and then deleted screenshots of messages between him and Eric Trump.
  • The screenshots showed Eric Trump asking if UFC fights on the White House South Lawn were rigged.
  • Eric Trump said he never contacted Daniel Cormier and called the screenshots “AI generated” fakes.
  • Cormier originally posted the screenshots on X (formerly Twitter) but removed them.
  • Eric Trump tagged UFC and UFC CEO Dana White in his denial posts.
  • Eric Trump called the situation “scary” and thanked Cormier for a post criticizing people who believe the fake messages.
  • The White House event was for the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.
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Labour MPs urge Starmer to set targets to boost number of male teachers in England

Labour MPs urge Starmer to set targets to boost number of male teachers in England

Summary

Labour MPs in England want the government to set goals to increase the number of male teachers, especially in primary schools, to help boys have more positive role models. They are also pushing to extend paternity leave beyond the current two weeks, which is among the shortest in rich countries, to give fathers more time with their newborns.

Key Facts

  • Only 24% of teachers in England are men; in primary schools, just 14% are male.
  • Labour MPs argue that more male teachers can help address issues related to masculinity and support boys at risk of toxic influences.
  • Over 50 MPs have worn football shirts calling for longer paternity leave, highlighting that two weeks is the worst offer in Europe.
  • Research shows 92% of the public thinks fathers having time with babies is important, and 60% support longer paid paternity leave.
  • The government plans to recruit 6,500 new teachers by the end of the parliament and is partly through this target.
  • MPs want national campaigns like those that helped encourage women in STEM jobs to also promote teaching careers for men.
  • The issue is part of a broader political debate, with Labour leadership challenges and upcoming elections influencing the timing.
  • Initiatives include a poster campaign at football stadiums and cooperation with groups like Movember and the Dad Shift.
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Trump’s White House UFC fights marred by ugly Michelle Obama smear

Trump’s White House UFC fights marred by ugly Michelle Obama smear

Summary

President Donald Trump celebrated his 80th birthday by hosting the first professional UFC fight event on the White House South Lawn, marking the 250th anniversary of US independence. The event featured military displays, political figures, and was marked by a controversial comment about Michelle Obama from a fighter.

Key Facts

  • President Trump held a UFC mixed martial arts (MMA) event called UFC Freedom 250 on the White House South Lawn.
  • The event celebrated Trump's 80th birthday and the upcoming 250th anniversary of US independence.
  • The night included military flyovers by the Blue Angels, Thunderbirds, and a B-1 bomber.
  • UFC chief Dana White and tech leader Mark Zuckerberg were among the attendees.
  • Fighter Josh Hokit made a false and insulting claim about Michelle Obama during a post-fight interview.
  • The crowd displayed patriotic chants and some made political jokes about Canada being the "51st state."
  • American fighter Sean O'Malley won his match, adding to the event’s nationalistic atmosphere.
  • The event combined a sports competition with political, military, and entertainment elements.
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Most AAPI adults say the US is no longer a great country for immigrants, new poll finds

Most AAPI adults say the US is no longer a great country for immigrants, new poll finds

Summary

A new poll shows most Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) adults believe the U.S. is no longer a great country for immigrants. Many in the AAPI community have been affected by President Trump's tough immigration policies through detentions, deportations, or changes in daily life.

Key Facts

  • About half of AAPI adults say they or someone they know has been detained or deported in the past year.
  • Many AAPI people now carry proof of their immigration or citizenship status regularly.
  • Most AAPI adults feel the U.S. used to be a great place for immigrants but is not anymore.
  • Only about 30% of AAPI adults currently think the U.S. is a great place for immigrants.
  • Some immigration policies by President Trump’s administration have been legally blocked by courts.
  • The AAPI community is growing quickly and most AAPI adults were born outside the U.S.
  • AAPI adults value the mix of cultures as a key part of America’s identity.
  • Even immigrants with legal status feel impacted by recent policy changes and increased enforcement.
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Demand at baby bank 'has never been higher'

Demand at baby bank 'has never been higher'

Summary

A community group called Hartlepool Baby Bank is helping many more families than before by giving free clothes, toys, and baby supplies. They say the need is growing because parents struggle with childcare costs and finding flexible jobs.

Key Facts

  • Hartlepool Baby Bank helps around 150 families each week, a big increase since 2019.
  • About 27% of children in Hartlepool live in poverty, with families earning less than 60% of the national average.
  • People ask for more kinds of items now, including clothes, coats, and shoes.
  • The baby bank started when the founder saw a clear need for help.
  • They get most things through donations but buy essential items like nappies and maternity pads.
  • Families can get help with anything from advice to emergency supplies for newborns.
  • Many families seeking help are working but still cannot afford childcare or living costs.
  • Donations of cots, toiletries, nappies, and maternity pads are especially needed, even if opened.
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In Pictures: Trump marks 80th birthday with White House UFC spectacle

In Pictures: Trump marks 80th birthday with White House UFC spectacle

Summary

President Donald Trump celebrated his 80th birthday by hosting a UFC mixed martial arts event on the South Lawn of the White House. The event took place hours after he announced a memorandum of understanding with Iran, combining political announcements with a major sporting spectacle.

Key Facts

  • The UFC event was called "UFC Freedom 250" and was the first professional sporting event held at the White House.
  • President Trump walked out of the Oval Office with UFC CEO Dana White and attended the fights on the South Lawn.
  • The celebration included a salute on the Truman Balcony while the national anthem played.
  • Twelve US military jets from the Air Force Thunderbirds and Navy Blue Angels performed a flyover.
  • There were 14 fighters competing in mixed martial arts bouts inside the Octagon cage.
  • This event followed the announcement of a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran.
  • The event blended politics, sport, and patriotic pageantry.
  • Fans and military members attended and watched multiple fights between American and international fighters.
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