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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Florida aims to ban vaccine mandates for schoolchildren

Florida aims to ban vaccine mandates for schoolchildren

September 03, 2025
Florida is planning to remove all vaccine mandates required for schoolchildren. The state health official compared these mandates to "slavery" and pledged to eliminate them, though a clear timeline or method hasn't been provided. The move has faced criticism from health officials and lawmakers who believe it could harm public health.

Key Facts:

  • Florida plans to end all vaccine mandates for schoolchildren.
  • The state’s Surgeon General likened the mandates to "slavery."
  • Details or a timeline for ending the mandates were not provided.
  • Some mandates can only be repealed through a state legislature vote.
  • Health officials and lawmakers have criticized the plan, calling it dangerous.
  • Currently, students in Florida must be vaccinated against illnesses like measles and polio.
  • Vaccines reportedly prevent millions of deaths worldwide each year.
  • An alliance of Democratic-led states announced efforts to coordinate health measures, opposing changes to federal health guidance.

Source Information

BBC US
Florida top doctor pushes end to vaccine mandates, likens them to ‘slavery’

Florida top doctor pushes end to vaccine mandates, likens them to ‘slavery’

September 03, 2025
Florida’s surgeon general, Joseph Ladapo, announced plans to end state vaccine mandates, including those for children in schools. Republican Governor Ron DeSantis also introduced a new state commission called "Make America Healthy Again" to focus on health policies. In contrast, Democratic governors from the West Coast states announced a joint health alliance to coordinate vaccine recommendations.

Key Facts:

  • Florida's surgeon general wants to eliminate all state vaccine mandates.
  • Joseph Ladapo compared vaccine mandates to "slavery."
  • Governor Ron DeSantis launched a "Make America Healthy Again" state commission.
  • Florida's current vaccine mandates cover diseases such as measles, chickenpox, and polio.
  • Democratic governors from Washington, Oregon, and California formed an alliance for health policy coordination.
  • The alliance aims to align vaccine guidelines with national medical organizations' recommendations.
  • Florida's health department can change some vaccine rules, but others need legislative action.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
‘This is not a political issue, this is a crime,’ Epstein survivor says

‘This is not a political issue, this is a crime,’ Epstein survivor says

September 03, 2025
Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse are asking for accountability. President Trump claimed the case's attention is political. An Epstein survivor and a lawyer working with survivors shared their views.

Key Facts:

  • Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse want justice.
  • President Trump said the focus on the case is political.
  • Liz Stein, an Epstein survivor, is now an advocate against human trafficking in the U.S.
  • Jennifer Freeman is a special counsel representing several Epstein survivors.
  • The discussion involved heavily on the legal and human impact of Epstein's crimes.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Newsmax sues Fox News in battle of right-wing TV networks

Newsmax sues Fox News in battle of right-wing TV networks

September 03, 2025
Newsmax is suing Fox News, claiming that Fox uses unfair methods to limit competition from other right-wing networks. The lawsuit accuses Fox of pressuring TV providers to block or limit access to channels like Newsmax. Newsmax wants the court to stop these practices and is seeking damages.

Key Facts:

  • Newsmax has filed a lawsuit against Fox News in a federal court in Florida.
  • The lawsuit accuses Fox News of anticompetitive behavior, which means using unfair methods to limit competition.
  • Newsmax claims Fox uses its power to influence TV providers to restrict other conservative channels.
  • The suit alleges Fox News has exclusive content deals that block competitors and financially penalizes providers carrying other right-leaning networks.
  • Newsmax accuses Fox of pressuring guests not to appear on rival channels and hiring investigators to target Newsmax executives.
  • Newsmax wants the court to declare these practices unlawful and seeks monetary compensation.
  • Newsmax has a market value of about $1.8 billion and gained support from former President Donald Trump.
  • Both Newsmax and Fox News have been involved in defamation lawsuits linked to claims about the 2020 US election.

Source Information

BBC US
Trump policies stalled by series of rulings, likely setting up Supreme Court fight

Trump policies stalled by series of rulings, likely setting up Supreme Court fight

September 03, 2025
A court ruled against the Trump administration's attempt to use an old law to deport Venezuelans labeled as gang members. The administration has faced multiple legal challenges, which may end up in the Supreme Court.

Key Facts:

  • A court blocked the Trump administration from deporting Venezuelans under the Alien Enemies Act.
  • The Alien Enemies Act is a wartime law from the 18th century.
  • The administration has faced legal challenges to its power to enforce tariffs.
  • Courts have also limited the administration's ability to send troops into U.S. cities.
  • Legal experts, like a Georgetown law professor, are discussing the implications of these rulings.
  • These legal issues might be reviewed by the Supreme Court.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Rogue House Republicans help Dems kill a vote to censure LaMonica McIver in shock result

Rogue House Republicans help Dems kill a vote to censure LaMonica McIver in shock result

September 03, 2025
House Democrats, with support from some Republicans, halted a vote to censure Rep. LaMonica McIver from New Jersey. The censure concerned McIver's alleged clash with ICE officers, but she denies wrongdoing and claims the charges are politically motivated.

Key Facts:

  • Rep. LaMonica McIver is accused of assaulting law enforcement but denies any wrongdoing.
  • A vote to censure her was blocked by House Democrats and some Republicans.
  • Five Republicans voted with Democrats to prevent the censure, and two Republicans voted "present."
  • The censure resolution argued that McIver's role on the Homeland Security Committee was a conflict of interest.
  • The incident involved McIver and others trying to visit a migrant detention center but being denied access.
  • It is claimed McIver elbowed an officer, but she says she was the one assaulted.
  • Rep. Clay Higgins from Louisiana pushed for the censure vote despite it bypassing GOP leadership.

Source Information

Axios
Watch: Epstein accusers speak outside US Capitol

Watch: Epstein accusers speak outside US Capitol

September 03, 2025
A group of people who accuse Jeffrey Epstein of wrongdoing spoke outside the US Capitol. They want the government to release more information about the Epstein case. They also claim to be making a list of people connected to Epstein.

Key Facts:

  • Epstein accusers spoke at an event in Washington DC.
  • They asked for more government transparency and the release of all case files.
  • Marina Lacerda, an alleged victim, spoke publicly for the first time.
  • Lisa Phillips mentioned that they are compiling a list of Epstein's associates.
  • The event was organized by US lawmakers supporting more disclosure of Epstein case files.

Source Information

BBC US

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Museum exhibit showcases the pets who have lived in the White House

Museum exhibit showcases the pets who have lived in the White House

September 03, 2025
A new exhibit at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston highlights the pets that have lived in the White House with U.S. presidents. This exhibit is part of the museum's arts and culture series called CANVAS.

Key Facts:

  • The exhibit is held at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.
  • It focuses on the pets that have lived at the White House.
  • The exhibit is part of an arts and culture series called CANVAS.
  • Pets have been significant in the lives of U.S. presidents since the country was founded.
  • The exhibit provides insight into the personal side of past presidents.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
WATCH: Federal immigration enforcement will ‘flood the zone’ in sanctuary cities, Homan says

WATCH: Federal immigration enforcement will ‘flood the zone’ in sanctuary cities, Homan says

September 03, 2025
The Trump administration plans to increase federal immigration enforcement in sanctuary cities by sending more officers. Chicago is one of the cities where the administration has sought additional support for these operations. Local officials are opposing the federal plans, arguing that crime is decreasing in the city and military help is unnecessary.

Key Facts:

  • Tom Homan, President Trump's border czar, announced plans to increase immigration enforcement in sanctuary cities.
  • 10,000 additional agents will be deployed as part of this plan.
  • The administration has asked a military base near Chicago for help with immigration operations.
  • This request suggests a potential increase in law enforcement activities in Chicago.
  • Recently, National Guard troops have been deployed to other cities like Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles for similar purposes.
  • Chicago's local leaders, including the mayor and Illinois governor, oppose this federal intervention.
  • Local officials state that crime rates have decreased and that military assistance is not needed in Chicago.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

The DOD told trans troops to get diagnosed. It's using the paper trail to kick them out

September 03, 2025
Category: us The Department of Defense is removing transgender troops following a new ban. This process involves using their medical diagnoses to discharge them, affecting their rights and benefits.

Key Facts:

  • The Department of Defense has a new ban on transgender troops.
  • Transgender troops need a medical diagnosis to determine their status.
  • The military uses these medical records to discharge transgender individuals.
  • The Air Force is implementing rules that affect the rights of transgender members.
  • Some transgender troops may lose due process, which means they might not get a fair legal process.
  • The discharge process may also affect their financial and medical benefits.

Source Information

NPR World
Trump to ask SCOTUS to reverse E. Jean Carroll sex-abuse verdict

Trump to ask SCOTUS to reverse E. Jean Carroll sex-abuse verdict

September 03, 2025
Former President Trump plans to ask the Supreme Court to overturn a $5 million verdict. The verdict was from a civil lawsuit where he was found responsible for sexual abuse and defamation against writer E. Jean Carroll.

Key Facts:

  • Trump plans to appeal to the Supreme Court.
  • He was found liable for sexual abuse and defamation against E. Jean Carroll.
  • The verdict involved a $5 million judgment.
  • Trump's legal team argues that some lawsuits are politically motivated.
  • The petition includes a request for more time, until November 10, to file the case.
  • The case involves a previous decision by the Second Circuit court.
  • This news is part of ongoing legal battles involving Trump.

Source Information

Axios
Florida to end all vaccine mandates, state officials say

Florida to end all vaccine mandates, state officials say

September 03, 2025
Florida plans to end all state vaccine mandates, according to its Surgeon General, Joseph Ladapo. This move would make Florida the first U.S. state to stop requiring vaccines, which could lead to fewer children receiving vaccines against diseases like measles and polio.

Key Facts:

  • Florida will end state-level vaccine mandates, announced by Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo.
  • Florida aims to be the first state in the U.S. to stop requiring vaccines.
  • Florida has the highest rate of non-medical vaccine exemptions for kindergartners in the southeast.
  • Current state law requires children to be vaccinated against seven diseases, including measles and polio.
  • Florida's Department of Health also requires vaccines against four additional illnesses.
  • Parents in Florida can get religious exemptions for their children without appointments or questioning.
  • Florida reported 10,556 non-medical vaccine exemptions for the 2024–25 school year, second only to Texas.
  • Governor Ron DeSantis mentioned legislative action might be needed for some mandates written into state law.

Source Information

Axios

In Florida, street art will soon be a thing of the past

September 03, 2025
Florida is removing street art, like murals and painted crosswalks, because the state claims they are a safety problem. This includes artworks that honor groups like the police.

Key Facts:

  • Florida is getting rid of street art, including murals and painted crosswalks.
  • The state says the reason for removal is safety concerns.
  • Artworks affected include those that honor the police.
  • The announcement was reported on September 3, 2025.
  • The change affects various locations across Florida.

Source Information

NPR National
WATCH: Vance speaks after meeting with families affected by Minneapolis shooting

WATCH: Vance speaks after meeting with families affected by Minneapolis shooting

September 03, 2025
Vice President JD Vance visited Minneapolis to meet with families affected by a recent shooting at a Catholic church, which resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to 21 others. The attacker, who had connections to the church, died by suicide after the incident. Vance and his wife paid their respects at the church and met privately with the families.

Key Facts:

  • The shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis during a school mass.
  • Two children were killed, and 21 others were injured in the attack.
  • The attacker, Robin Westman, fired 116 rounds and then died by suicide.
  • Vice President Vance met with affected families to offer condolences.
  • Security was tight during Vance's visit to the site.
  • Some community members protested nearby, calling for gun safety measures.
  • The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but the attacker had connections to the church.
  • Church services have temporarily moved to the school gym while the church is being prepared for future worship.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Epstein accusers shared their stories on Capitol Hill, calling for justice

September 03, 2025
A group of Epstein's accusers shared their experiences in Washington, D.C., urging Congress for justice. Lawmakers from both parties are pushing to release all federal documents related to Jeffrey Epstein's crimes.

Key Facts:

  • Epstein was a convicted sex offender.
  • Accusers visited Capitol Hill to share their stories with lawmakers.
  • They want justice and accountability for Epstein's actions.
  • A group of House lawmakers, from both political parties, supports the accusers.
  • These lawmakers aim to make all federal files on Epstein public.

Source Information

NPR National
Judge reverses Trump administration’s cuts of billions in research funding to Harvard

Judge reverses Trump administration’s cuts of billions in research funding to Harvard

September 03, 2025
A federal judge in Boston has ruled against the Trump administration's decision to cut over $2.6 billion in research funding for Harvard University. The judge stated that the cuts were illegal retaliation related to demands the administration made, which Harvard did not agree to. This decision allows Harvard to continue its research projects that were affected by the funding cuts.

Key Facts:

  • A federal judge reversed the Trump administration's cuts to $2.6 billion in research grants for Harvard University.
  • The judge decided the funding cuts were illegal retaliation for Harvard not complying with the administration's demands.
  • The demands included changes to Harvard’s governance and handling of antisemitism issues.
  • The ruling supports Harvard's ability to restart research projects impacted by these cuts.
  • The cuts were linked to Harvard's rejections of changes suggested by an antisemitism task force from the government.
  • The administration had previously attempted to block foreign students from studying at Harvard.
  • Harvard moved to fund some research itself but stated it couldn't cover all costs due to the federal cuts.
  • The Trump administration denies retaliatory motives and argues it was about policy alignment.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Can you get a COVID shot? Here’s your fall vaccine guide

Can you get a COVID shot? Here’s your fall vaccine guide

September 03, 2025
In the U.S., access to COVID-19 vaccines is changing due to new government guidelines, which limit who can receive the vaccine. These changes differ from previous policies where vaccines were widely available to most people. Other vaccines, like those for the flu and RSV, have specific guidelines for who should get them.

Key Facts:

  • COVID-19 vaccines now have stricter guidelines, limiting access for healthy children and adults.
  • Previously, anyone aged 6 months or older could get the COVID-19 vaccine; now only those at high risk or aged 65 and older are prioritized.
  • The CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will make decisions about COVID vaccine availability this fall.
  • The flu vaccine is available to everyone aged 6 months and older.
  • The RSV vaccine is for adults 75 or older, and those aged 50 to 74 who are at risk, as well as pregnant individuals in their third trimester during certain months.
  • New vaccine recommendations have been introduced by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
  • Disagreements within government agencies have led to changes in CDC leadership and advisory panels.
  • There is conflicting messaging within the administration about vaccine eligibility, especially for pregnant individuals.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
US appeals court blocks Trump use of Alien Enemies Act in deportation drive

US appeals court blocks Trump use of Alien Enemies Act in deportation drive

September 03, 2025
A federal appeals court stopped the use of a wartime law by Donald Trump's administration to deport Venezuelans, ruling it was used incorrectly. This decision concerns the Alien Enemies Act, which Trump's administration invoked against a group they labeled as an "invasion" but the court did not agree with this labeling.

Key Facts:

  • The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against using the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelans.
  • The Alien Enemies Act is a law from 1798, allowing deportations in wartime or invasion.
  • Trump's administration used the law, claiming Venezuelans were part of a hostile group.
  • The court said there was no evidence of a Venezuelan invasion or organized armed forces.
  • The ruling currently applies to Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
  • Before Trump, the Alien Enemies Act was only used during wars.
  • The case may eventually go to the US Supreme Court.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
OMB director says Government Accountability Office "shouldn't exist"

OMB director says Government Accountability Office "shouldn't exist"

September 03, 2025
Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, stated that he believes the Government Accountability Office (GAO) should not exist. Vought made these remarks amidst friction between the GAO and the Trump administration due to investigations into the administration's spending practices. The GAO is an agency that provides non-partisan information to Congress and aims to improve government efficiency.

Key Facts:

  • Russell Vought is the current director of the Office of Management and Budget.
  • Vought expressed that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) shouldn't exist.
  • The GAO has reported on the Trump administration's violations of federal law.
  • The GAO investigates government spending and provides non-partisan reports.
  • The GAO's reports are requested by congressional committees or required by law.
  • The U.S. comptroller general leads the GAO and is appointed by the president with Senate approval.
  • Gene Dodaro is the current comptroller general, serving since December 2010.
  • President Trump has criticized other government sections, such as the Federal Reserve.

Source Information

Axios
Rayner admits underpaying tax on £800,000 Hove flat

Rayner admits underpaying tax on £800,000 Hove flat

September 03, 2025
Angela Rayner, the UK Deputy Prime Minister, admitted she didn't pay the correct stamp duty tax on her £800,000 Hove flat due to initial legal advice. She has contacted HMRC to resolve the issue and referred herself for an investigation. The situation has led to political pressure and calls for her resignation.

Key Facts:

  • Angela Rayner underpaid stamp duty tax on a flat she bought for £800,000 in Hove.
  • Rayner attributes the underpayment to incorrect initial legal advice.
  • She has contacted HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to sort out the correct tax amount.
  • Rayner referred herself to the Prime Minister's standards adviser for investigation.
  • Some political figures, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, have called for Rayner to be fired.
  • Rayner admits the tax underpayment could be embarrassing because of her previous criticism of Tory ministers.
  • The legal issue arose from complex provisions in trusts linked to her previous family home.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories