US News - The Actual News

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

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

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

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

‘Coming back with nothing’: Inside the reverse migration away from the US

June 30, 2025

Migrants in Necocli, Colombia, are turning back from their journey to the U.S. due to stricter immigration rules. They are seeking new places to settle after realizing crossing the U.S. border is challenging.

Key Facts:

Necocli is a town in Colombia located on the Caribbean coast.
A boat carrying migrants from Venezuela arrived at Necocli.
The migrants are returning because they couldn't cross the U.S. border.
Luis Angel Yagua Parra, a 21-year-old from Venezuela, is among the migrants.
Yagua Parra has traveled through this area before.
Migrants used to travel north from South America to reach the U.S.
There is now a trend of migrants turning back due to tougher U.S. immigration measures.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

DOJ announces a record-breaking takedown of health care fraud schemes

June 30, 2025

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced charges against a person from Pakistan in a $650 million health care fraud case. This case is one of many in a large effort by the DOJ to stop health care fraud schemes nationwide. The total potential losses from these schemes could be $14.6 billion.

Key Facts:

A Pakistani national, Farrukh Ali, is charged with health care fraud aimed at an Arizona Medicaid program for Native Americans.
Ali allegedly worked with at least 41 clinics to falsely bill for substance abuse treatments.
Patients, often from homeless populations or Native American reservations, did not receive real treatment.
This case is part of nearly 200 cases in the DOJ's national health care fraud crackdown.
The DOJ's effort this year involves $14.6 billion in potential losses, making it the largest takedown in history.
The DOJ estimates health care fraud in the U.S. costs about $300 billion each year.
Ali is accused of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering.
Ali's company, ProMD Solutions LLC, was based in Arizona and Pakistan, offering medical billing services.

Source Information

NPR Home

Senate considers ditching the EV tax credit even earlier than planned

June 30, 2025

The Senate is considering ending federal tax credits for electric vehicles (EVs) earlier than planned, with a proposed end date of September 30. The current Senate draft suggests the credits would stop sooner than the House version, but changes to the bill are still possible as it continues through the legislative process.

Key Facts:

The Senate's version of a tax and spending bill could end electric vehicle tax credits by September 30.
The House version of the bill proposed ending these credits by late 2025 or 2026.
The bill is not final; the Senate is voting on amendments, and the House and Senate versions will need to be reconciled.
Some groups, like the American Energy Alliance, support ending the credits quickly, while others, like auto dealers, want a more gradual phase-out.
Current credits include a used vehicle credit up to $4,000, aimed at helping lower- and middle-income buyers.
There is concern that ending the credits suddenly could disrupt the car market and confuse consumers.
Part of the debate involves the "lease loophole," which allows tax credits without income and price restrictions, drawing criticism.

Source Information

NPR Business

White House says Harvard violated civil rights of Jewish students

June 30, 2025

The White House has accused Harvard University of violating civil rights laws regarding the treatment of Jewish students. A letter from the Trump administration claimed that the university did not adequately address threats and discrimination against Jewish students on campus, which could lead to the loss of federal funding.

Key Facts:

The Trump administration sent Harvard a letter claiming the university violated civil rights laws concerning Jewish students.
Jewish students at Harvard reported discrimination and physical threats.
Incidents included Jewish students being spat on and antisemitic images being circulated.
The administration warned that Harvard could lose all federal funding if it does not make immediate changes.
This letter is part of ongoing tensions between Harvard and the Trump administration regarding the handling of antisemitism.
In May, the administration ordered a review of Harvard's federal grants, worth an estimated $100 million.
The administration had previously frozen $2.65 billion in federal grants and threatened Harvard's ability to enroll international students.
Columbia University received a similar letter from the administration about protecting Jewish students.

Source Information

BBC US

GOP Rep. Bacon of Nebraska cites dysfunction in deciding not to seek reelection

June 30, 2025

U.S. Representative Don Bacon from Nebraska announced he will not run for reelection next year. He cited the desire to spend more time with his family and the difficulty of navigating between political parties in a district with both Republican and Democratic voters. Bacon plans to complete his current term and has been known for his centrist approach in politics.

Key Facts:

Don Bacon is a Republican U.S. Representative from Nebraska.
He announced he will not seek reelection in 2024.
Bacon has served nearly a decade in office.
He represents Nebraska’s 2nd district, which includes Omaha.
This district is known for being politically divided.
Bacon has focused on a bipartisan approach during his time in office.
He believes his district requires winning over swing voters, who can vote either way.
Bacon plans to finish his current term before stepping down.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Calls for inquiry as 420 refinery jobs at risk

June 30, 2025

More than 400 jobs are at risk after the UK-based Lindsey Oil Refinery went into administration, sparking government calls for an investigation. The Prax Group, which bought the refinery in 2021, faced financial losses and couldn't fully answer financial inquiries, leading to concerns over its management and future operations.

Key Facts:

Lindsey Oil Refinery in Immingham faces administration, possibly affecting 420 workers.
The union states up to 1,000 jobs might be affected, including contractors and suppliers.
The UK government calls for an investigation into the refinery's financial handling.
The Prax Group bought the refinery from Total in 2021.
The refinery has lost around £75 million since Prax's takeover in 2021.
An official receiver is appointed to manage the insolvency process.
Management firm FTI Consulting is assisting in the liquidation process.
The refinery is the smallest in the UK and located near the profitable Phillips 66 Humber refinery.

Source Information

BBC Business

US Senate begins voting on Trump's 'big beautiful bill'

June 30, 2025

The U.S. Senate started voting on a large spending plan called the "big beautiful bill." The plan involves significant tax cuts and welfare program changes, with debates around its potential impact on national debt and healthcare services. The Senate made some changes to the bill, meaning the House of Representatives will vote on it again after the Senate decides.

Key Facts:

The U.S. Senate began voting on a large spending bill nicknamed the "big beautiful bill."
The bill includes tax cuts President Trump supports, like deductions for Social Security benefits and removing taxes on overtime.
The Senate vote to start debating the bill was close, with two Republicans and all Democrats opposing it.
Senator Thom Tillis and Senator Rand Paul, both Republicans, voted against it, citing concerns about broken promises and debt increases.
The bill would add $3.3 trillion to the national debt, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
The bill passed in the House of Representatives by a single vote before heading to the Senate.
Republicans can only lose three votes in the Senate to pass the bill without needing a tie-breaking vote from the Vice President.
The House will need to vote again on the Senate's version of the bill before it can become law.

Source Information

BBC US

Trump to visit ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ immigration detention facility in Florida Everglades

June 30, 2025

President Donald Trump will visit a new immigration detention center in the Florida Everglades. The center has faced criticism due to environmental and cultural concerns. It is capable of holding 5,000 people and is located far from urban areas.

Key Facts:

President Trump plans to visit an immigration detention center in the Florida Everglades.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed the visit and spoke with Trump about it.
The facility got approval from the Department of Homeland Security.
The center can hold up to 5,000 detainees and is located 50 miles west of Miami.
The area around the center is isolated and filled with wildlife, such as alligators.
Environmental and Native American groups have protested the facility due to environmental and cultural concerns.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is helping pay for the construction.
The facility has been nicknamed "Alligator Alcatraz" by the Trump administration.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

MP asks Lotus to give clarity to 1,300 workers

June 30, 2025

A Member of Parliament (MP) has asked the owners of Lotus, a car company, to clearly communicate the future of their Hethel factory amid rumors of its potential closure. The company, owned by China-based Geely, stated they have no plans to close the factory but are looking at ways to improve efficiency. Meetings between politicians and Geely highlighted the need for openness regarding future operations and job security for the 1,300 workers there.

Key Facts:

An MP wants clarity from Lotus owners about the factory's future.
There are rumors about the possible closure of Lotus's Hethel site.
Lotus's owner, Geely, said the factory will continue to operate.
Geely is looking at ways to make the factory more efficient.
The Hethel facility employs 1,300 workers.
Geely took control of Lotus in 2017 and focuses on electric and hybrid vehicles.
Lotus announced plans earlier to cut 270 jobs in the UK.
Politicians are emphasizing the need for clear communication from Geely.

Source Information

BBC Business

Jury begins deliberating in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial

June 30, 2025

Jurors in Sean "Diddy" Combs' federal sex trafficking trial started deliberations. Combs faces charges related to sex trafficking and racketeering, with possible life imprisonment if convicted. The jury will review evidence and testimonies from a seven-week trial, where Combs pleaded not guilty.

Key Facts:

Jurors began deliberating in Sean "Diddy" Combs' trial on charges including sex trafficking and racketeering.
If convicted, Combs could face life in prison.
The trial lasted seven weeks and included graphic testimonies and evidence.
Combs is accused of organizing drug-fueled sexual activities and coercing women into sexual encounters.
A jury of eight men and four women is reviewing evidence, including text messages and videos.
Combs has pleaded not guilty and did not testify in his own defense.
His lawyers argue that prosecutors are wrongly interfering in his personal and consensual activities.
Two of Combs' former girlfriends were key witnesses, alleging violence and coercion.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

WATCH LIVE: White House holds news briefing as Senate Republicans push to pass Trump’s budget bill

June 30, 2025

The Senate is holding a long session to vote on changes to President Trump's bill, which includes spending and tax cuts. Democrats plan to propose amendments to change some parts of the bill.

Key Facts:

The Senate is working on President Trump's bill that includes spending cuts and tax cuts.
The session involves voting on amendments, which are suggested changes to the bill.
The session is expected to last all day and might continue into the night.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will give a news briefing at 1 p.m. ET.
Democrats want to propose amendments to remove tax breaks for wealthy people and cuts to the Medicaid program.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer wants an amendment to prevent increased costs for working families and small businesses.
Chuck Schumer mentioned that the actions taken by Republicans will be remembered by American people.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Key witness in ex-Peru mayor's corruption case found dead

June 30, 2025

A key witness in the corruption case involving former Lima mayor Susana Villarán has been found dead, according to Peruvian prosecutors. José Miguel Castro, who was under house arrest and working with prosecutors on the case, was a former official during Villarán's time as mayor and was set to be a co-defendant in her trial starting on September 23.

Key Facts:

Susana Villarán, former mayor of Lima, is accused of taking $10 million in bribes from Brazilian construction companies.
José Miguel Castro, a key witness and former official, was found dead at his home.
Castro was under house arrest and reportedly cooperating with investigators.
Villarán admitted in 2019 to receiving funds from Odebrecht and OAS but denied these were bribes.
The trial for Villarán is scheduled to begin on September 23.
Odebrecht admitted in 2016 to bribing officials to secure contracts in Latin America and Africa.
Several former Peruvian presidents have been investigated for corruption linked to Odebrecht.
Other politicians, including ex-presidents Ollanta Humala and Alejandro Toledo, have been sentenced to prison for corruption-related charges.

Source Information

BBC World

Gunman started wildfire, then fatally shot 2 firefighters in ambush attack, Idaho officials say

June 30, 2025

A man with a rifle started a fire and then fired at first responders in northern Idaho, killing two firefighters and injuring another. The suspect, identified as Wess Roley, was found dead after a police search. Authorities believe he acted alone and deliberately ambushed the firefighters.

Key Facts:

A man started a fire and shot at firefighters in a northern Idaho mountain community.
Two firefighters died, and one was injured in the attack.
The suspect was identified as Wess Roley and was found dead with a firearm nearby.
Police believe the attack was planned and targeted at the firefighters.
The incident occurred near Canfield Mountain, north of Coeur d’Alene.
A shelter-in-place order was given but later lifted after the suspect was found.
The fire was still burning, with authorities urging residents to remain alert.
The FBI and local law enforcement responded to the scene for investigation and security.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Trump administration investigation finds Harvard failed to protect Jewish students, threatens to cut all funding

June 30, 2025

The Trump administration concluded that Harvard University failed to protect Jewish students from harassment and threatened to cut all federal funding if the school does not take action. The investigation found that Harvard violated laws protecting against discrimination based on race or national origin, particularly regarding antisemitic incidents on campus.

Key Facts:

The Trump administration investigated Harvard University for not protecting Jewish students from harassment.
The investigation concluded that Harvard violated civil rights laws meant to prevent discrimination based on race or national origin.
A federal task force communicated these findings in a letter to Harvard.
Officials stated that Harvard allowed antisemitic behavior to grow on campus.
The letter warned that Harvard could lose all federal funding if it does not make immediate changes.
The university did not provide any comments at the time of the report.
The investigation is part of ongoing tensions between the White House and Harvard, which previously lost over $2.6 billion in federal funding after rejecting federal demands for changes at the university.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

What's the story behind Aldi Oasis rebrand?

June 30, 2025

Aldi changed the name of its store in Prestwich, near Manchester, to "Aldeh" as a nod to the local accent and the band Oasis. This renaming coincides with Oasis's reunion tour and their performances in Heaton Park. The band, known for splitting up 16 years ago, is getting back together for a series of concerts.

Key Facts:

Aldi changed the name of its Prestwich store to "Aldeh."
The renaming reflects the Manchester accent and honors the band Oasis.
Oasis has reunited for a tour starting in Cardiff and ending in Brazil in November.
The group split 16 years ago due to a conflict between the Gallagher brothers.
Oasis is playing five shows in Heaton Park, Manchester.
The store's new name will stay up during these concerts.
Aldi's chief commercial officer mentioned the name change celebrates the local culture and the band's legacy.

Source Information

BBC Business

WATCH LIVE: Senate begins debating amendments to Trump’s ‘big, beautiful’ spending bill

June 30, 2025

The U.S. Senate is working to pass a large bill proposed by President Trump that includes tax cuts and spending changes. The debate is intense, with Republicans and Democrats sharply divided over issues like health care cuts. The bill could impact millions of Americans' health insurance and increase the national deficit.

Key Facts:

The Senate is debating a bill with significant tax cuts and spending changes backed by President Trump.
A GOP senator announced retirement plans after opposing the bill due to cuts to Medicaid.
The bill could leave 11.8 million more Americans without health insurance by 2034, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
The bill could increase the U.S. deficit by $3.3 trillion over the next ten years.
The bill needs to pass the Senate before moving to the House for a vote.
Some Republicans are pushing for even deeper cuts, especially to health care.
Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski voted in favor after intense discussions, aided by specific provisions for her state.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour