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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Are insider traders making millions from the Iran war?

Are insider traders making millions from the Iran war?

April 20, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Traders made large bets just before President Donald Trump announced important news about the Iran war during his second term. Analysis of trading data suggests some people may have had inside information before these announcements.

Key Facts

  • Traders placed big bets shortly before President Trump’s announcements about the Iran conflict.
  • The BBC examined trade volumes that changed before market-moving statements by President Trump.
  • The focus is on insider trading related to the Iran war during President Trump’s second term.
  • The Iran war has caused high tensions and impacted oil prices and the global economy.
  • President Trump has made several public statements about Iran, including warnings and ceasefire announcements.
  • The article mentions related topics like the US blockade of Iranian ports and search efforts after a US plane was shot down.
  • The BBC’s analysis raises questions about possible insider trading benefiting from knowledge of these events.
  • The situation involves complex international and economic factors, including conflicts and energy markets.
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BBC World BBC US BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Trump tariff refund system launching in first step towards paying back billions – US politics live

Trump tariff refund system launching in first step towards paying back billions – US politics live

April 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The US government is starting a refund system for businesses that paid tariffs later ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. Importers can apply for refunds through an online system, and the process may eventually benefit consumers as well.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration imposed tariffs that the Supreme Court later ruled exceeded constitutional authority.
  • About $166 billion in tariffs were collected from over 330,000 importers on more than 53 million shipments.
  • The refund system opens at 8 a.m. ET, allowing importers and brokers to claim money back through an online portal run by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
  • If CBP approves a refund claim, businesses can expect to receive refunds within 60 to 90 days.
  • Over 3,000 businesses, including FedEx and Costco, have sued to get tariff refunds.
  • Some companies plan to pass refunds to consumers in lower prices for products.
  • Business groups emphasize that quick refunds will help small businesses recover, support economic growth, and benefit workers and customers.
  • President Donald Trump is in Washington for meetings and signing executive orders, but details have not been publicly released.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Virginia’s Redistricting Referendum Is a Power Grab | Opinion

Virginia’s Redistricting Referendum Is a Power Grab | Opinion

April 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Virginia voters will decide on April 21 whether to approve a new congressional map drawn by Democrats that would change the number of seats Democrats hold from 6 to 10 out of 11. This new map bypasses a bipartisan redistricting commission that voters approved in 2020 and has raised legal challenges and debate about fairness.

Key Facts

  • Virginia voters approved a bipartisan redistricting commission in 2020 with over 65% support.
  • Democrats propose a new map giving them 10 out of 11 congressional seats, up from 6.
  • The new map removes four Republican-held districts.
  • The proposed change would affect elections in 2026, 2028, and 2030.
  • Courts ruled the proposed amendment unlawful twice due to procedural and legal issues.
  • The Virginia Supreme Court allows the referendum on the ballot while the legal case continues.
  • Democrats argue the change is temporary and fair; opponents say it is gerrymandering (drawing district lines to favor a party).
  • The change would give map-drawing power to the Democrat-controlled Virginia General Assembly instead of the bipartisan commission.
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Newsweek
When Are May 2026 Social Security Payments Coming?

When Are May 2026 Social Security Payments Coming?

April 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Social Security payments in May 2026 will be issued on different dates depending on recipients’ birth dates or benefit types. Over 70 million Americans receive Social Security, which includes retirement, disability, survivor, and supplemental income benefits.

Key Facts

  • Social Security payments are staggered across the month to manage the large number of recipients.
  • Payment dates for May 2026 are: May 1 for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients; May 13 for people born between the 1st and 10th; May 20 for those born between the 11th and 20th; and May 27 for those born between the 21st and 31st.
  • People who started benefits before May 1997 and those receiving both Social Security and SSI have different payment schedules.
  • Social Security provides various benefits, including retirement, disability (SSDI), survivor, and supplemental income (SSI).
  • Retirement benefits depend on lifetime earnings, age when benefits start, and when the person begins to claim them.
  • The average monthly retirement payment in February 2026 was about $2,022.
  • Claiming benefits at age 62 results in lower monthly payments compared to waiting until full retirement age or age 70.
  • Survivor benefits are paid to family members of deceased workers who qualified for Social Security.
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Newsweek
Resignation is Trump’s last chance at redemption

Resignation is Trump’s last chance at redemption

April 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The article discusses President Donald Trump’s time in office, suggesting that his actions show the impact of having more power than personal character to handle it. It calls for the country to recognize this and focus on moving forward.

Key Facts

  • The article focuses on President Donald Trump’s presidency.
  • It describes his time in office as a lesson about power and character.
  • The article implies that his actions reveal problems related to his leadership.
  • It suggests that America should learn from this experience.
  • It encourages the country to move on from the issues related to his presidency.
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The Hill
Senate Republican knocks Trump over ‘holy war’ with pope

Senate Republican knocks Trump over ‘holy war’ with pope

April 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senator John Kennedy, a Republican from Louisiana, said that if Republicans lose the November midterm elections, it could be because they talked less about lowering living costs. He also asked President Trump and Vice President Vance to stop focusing on conflicts with the pope.

Key Facts

  • Senator John Kennedy represents Louisiana and is a member of the Republican Party.
  • Kennedy believes lowering the cost of living should be a key topic for Republicans in the upcoming elections.
  • He mentioned this during an interview on Fox News’s show called “The Big Weekend Show.”
  • Kennedy criticized what he called a “holy war” between President Trump, Vice President Vance, and the pope.
  • He urged them to stop this dispute to focus on more important issues like the economy.
  • The midterm elections are scheduled for November 2024.
  • President Donald Trump is currently the U.S. President, serving his second term.
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The Hill
Cabinet secretary apparently advised Starmer to wait for vetting before appointing Mandelson

Cabinet secretary apparently advised Starmer to wait for vetting before appointing Mandelson

April 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Documents show that Simon Case, the cabinet secretary, advised Keir Starmer to complete security checks on Peter Mandelson before announcing his appointment as UK ambassador to the US. Mandelson initially failed the security vetting but was still appointed after the Foreign Office overruled the decision. The issue has led to controversy and the sacking of a senior civil servant.

Key Facts

  • Simon Case advised Keir Starmer to wait for security vetting before appointing Peter Mandelson as ambassador.
  • Mandelson failed initial security vetting by UK Security Vetting (UKSV).
  • The Foreign Office overruled the vetting failure and appointed Mandelson anyway.
  • Mandelson received a high-level security briefing before his vetting was finalized.
  • Mandelson was dismissed in September after revelations about his links to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • The Foreign Office’s top civil servant, Olly Robbins, was sacked amid the scandal.
  • Downing Street says no law prevented civil servants from informing ministers about vetting results.
  • Keir Starmer said he would not have appointed Mandelson if he had known about the failed vetting.
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Guardian World
Everyone Saying Same Thing About Mamdani and Obama Singing

Everyone Saying Same Thing About Mamdani and Obama Singing

April 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

President Barack Obama and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani sang the children’s song "Wheels on the Bus" together during a visit to a child care center in the South Bronx, creating a positive and uplifting moment. The visit also included discussions about expanding child care programs in New York City.

Key Facts

  • President Obama and Mayor Mamdani sang to children at the Learning Through Play Pre-K Center in the South Bronx.
  • This was Mamdani’s first in-person meeting with President Obama.
  • They read a story and performed "Wheels on the Bus" for the children.
  • Mamdani wants to expand universal child care and pre-K programs in New York City.
  • Obama shared photos from the visit on social media, praising the children and the mayor.
  • The video of their duet was widely shared and received positive reactions on social media.
  • The event offered a positive contrast to current political challenges and conflict in the U.S. administration.
  • Mamdani has secured state funding to expand pre-K and plans to offer child care for 2-year-olds starting next fall.
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Newsweek
Eric Swalwell is what happens when special interests pick your congressman

Eric Swalwell is what happens when special interests pick your congressman

April 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Eric Swalwell, a congressman from California, faced accusations of sexual assault that ended his campaign to become governor and affected his political career. Some people say that those who knew about his behavior tried to stop him, but their warnings were ignored.

Key Facts

  • Eric Swalwell is a Democratic congressman from California.
  • He ran for governor but ended his campaign due to sexual assault accusations.
  • These accusations also impacted his political career overall.
  • Some individuals who knew about Swalwell’s behavior tried to warn others.
  • Those warnings were reportedly dismissed or ignored.
  • The article suggests there were efforts to stop Swalwell that were unsuccessful.
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The Hill
With no end in sight to their deployment, National Guard troops roam Washington

With no end in sight to their deployment, National Guard troops roam Washington

April 20, 2026 • AP News

Summary

More than 2,500 National Guard troops remain deployed in Washington, D.C., eight months after President Donald Trump declared a crime emergency there. The troops patrol city streets, metro stations, and tourist sites, with no clear end date for their deployment, while other cities have ended or paused similar actions.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump declared a crime emergency in Washington, D.C. last August.
  • Over 2,500 National Guard members are still deployed in the city.
  • Troops patrol streets, metro stations, tourist areas, parks, and neighborhoods.
  • The deployment costs taxpayers over one million dollars each day.
  • Guard members support local police but do not make arrests themselves.
  • The deployment is part of a federal crime task force credited with 12,000 arrests and thousands of illegal guns seized.
  • Other cities like those in California and Illinois have ended or paused National Guard deployments.
  • Local officials and candidates rarely discuss the ongoing deployment, possibly due to limited authority over it.
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AP News
Shreveport Reveals Our Mass Shooting Blind Spot

Shreveport Reveals Our Mass Shooting Blind Spot

April 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A gunman killed eight children, most of them his own, and shot two women in Shreveport, Louisiana. Authorities say it was a domestic incident linked to a family breakup, highlighting that many mass killings happen inside homes during family crises, which is often overlooked in public discussions about mass shootings.

Key Facts

  • The attacker, Shamar Elkins, killed eight children, seven being his own, and wounded two women before dying in a police chase.
  • The violence occurred amid a family separation and an upcoming court case related to the breakup.
  • Many mass killings in the U.S. happen in homes and involve family members, not random public attacks.
  • Around 67% of mass killings happen in or near residences, with 48% involving family members since 2006.
  • Media and public focus tend to be on public mass shootings like school attacks, missing the significance of family-related violence.
  • Louisiana reports emphasize the importance of protective orders, custody agreements, and supervised visitation to reduce risks during family separations.
  • Domestic violence increases risks for victims and children, especially during times of separation.
  • The Shreveport case reflects a common but less discussed pattern of mass violence in America.
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Newsweek
US urges contractor to evacuate workers from Kuwait and Iraq over worries of Iran-backed attacks

US urges contractor to evacuate workers from Kuwait and Iraq over worries of Iran-backed attacks

April 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The US government has urged the defense contractor V2X to evacuate its workers from military bases in Kuwait and Iraq due to threats from Iran-backed militias. Workers report poor protection and pressure to stay despite attacks, including a fatal drone strike. US officials have questioned V2X’s safety plans and pushed for evacuation preparations.

Key Facts

  • The US government warned V2X about threats from Iran-backed militias targeting their employees in Kuwait and Iraq.
  • V2X workers operate at US military bases, including Martyr Brigadier General Ali Flaih airbase (Balad airbase) and Erbil in Iraq.
  • A drone attack in March killed one worker at the Iraq base.
  • The US State Department held a meeting with V2X leadership expressing concern about worker safety.
  • V2X management resisted evacuation, saying employees must stay to “please the client,” risking their lives.
  • The US ordered an airplane to be available for emergency evacuation of workers.
  • Workers report frequent drone activity and gunfire, affecting their mental health and safety.
  • Emails to employees warn about a very high threat environment and risks from unexploded bombs on the base.
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Guardian World
Another victim of Cesar Chavez breaks their silence: ​​‘My body remembers’

Another victim of Cesar Chavez breaks their silence: ​​‘My body remembers’

April 20, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Jennifer Andrea Porras, an artist and cultural worker from the San Francisco Bay Area, shared their experience of sexual abuse by Cesar Chavez, co-founder of the United Farm Workers union. Porras spoke out after a New York Times investigation revealed similar allegations, aiming to support survivors and encourage open discussion in the Latino community.

Key Facts

  • Jennifer Andrea Porras identifies as non-binary and Indigiqueer and worked closely with Cesar Chavez in the 1990s.
  • Porras was sexually harassed by Chavez while living at his union's headquarters in California when they were 18.
  • Multiple women previously accused Chavez of sexual abuse in a New York Times report.
  • Porras's allegations are supported by friends, relatives, and union members who knew about the abuse at the time.
  • The revelations have led cities in California to remove tributes to Chavez, such as murals and statues.
  • Porras hopes speaking out will help survivors heal and change the culture of silence in the Latino community.
  • The case highlights ongoing issues of abuse in movements and other places of power today.
  • Porras's family had long ties to the Chicano and labor rights movements before their involvement with the UFW.
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Guardian US
Trump DoJ’s mixed messages bode ill for Epstein victims, experts fear

Trump DoJ’s mixed messages bode ill for Epstein victims, experts fear

April 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The U.S. Justice Department under President Donald Trump is facing criticism over its handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. Pam Bondi, who was involved in the case, did not appear for a congressional hearing, causing concerns about transparency and accountability for Epstein’s crimes. Her replacement, Todd Blanche, has made statements supporting further investigation but has also created confusion about the department’s direction.

Key Facts

  • Pam Bondi did not appear at a congressional hearing about her role in the Epstein investigation.
  • The House oversight committee was informed Bondi would not attend because she is no longer attorney general.
  • Committee members and Democrats have criticized Bondi for ignoring a lawful subpoena and have threatened contempt proceedings.
  • Republicans on the committee defended the decision not to enforce the subpoena, saying efforts are ongoing to reschedule.
  • Todd Blanche, acting head of the Justice Department, said he supports further inquiries and hearing victims’ testimonies.
  • Blanche interviewed Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s accomplice, but the interview was criticized for being lenient on questions related to President Trump’s political opponents.
  • The Epstein investigation remains politically contentious and unclear on how it will move forward.
  • There is broad public interest in achieving justice and transparency about Epstein’s crimes.
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Guardian World Guardian US
How did the media miss the Swalwell story? The world may never know.

How did the media miss the Swalwell story? The world may never know.

April 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The article discusses how media coverage often shows caution that seems to help one political party while the other party faces repeated, unproven claims. It suggests that this uneven reporting affects public perception.

Key Facts

  • Media coverage can be very cautious in reporting certain political stories.
  • This caution appears to favor one political party over the other.
  • Some political figures face repeated media allegations that have no solid proof.
  • The article refers to a specific example involving a politician named Swalwell.
  • The cause of this selective reporting is not clearly understood.
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The Hill
WATCH: Man puts new twist on Adirondack chair for kitties

WATCH: Man puts new twist on Adirondack chair for kitties

April 20, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

A retiree named Curtis McIff in Utah spends his free time using his woodworking skills to build Adirondack-style chairs specially designed for cats at a local animal sanctuary. This activity combines his hobby with volunteer work to support animals in need.

Key Facts

  • Curtis McIff is a retired man living in Utah.
  • He volunteers by building chairs for cats.
  • The chairs are a new version of the Adirondack chair, made for kitties.
  • The chairs are built at an animal sanctuary.
  • This work is done as a hobby and volunteer service.
  • The article was published on April 20, 2026.
  • McIff uses his woodworking skills for this project.
  • The initiative involves helping animals in a local community setting.
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ABC News
Donald Trump's Chances of Being Removed From Office Reach All-Time High

Donald Trump's Chances of Being Removed From Office Reach All-Time High

April 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The chance of President Donald Trump being impeached and removed from office has reached its highest level so far in his second term, according to a prediction market. This probability rose to nearly 28.7 percent, up from previous peaks earlier this year.

Key Facts

  • A prediction market called Kalshi tracks the probability of President Trump’s impeachment and removal.
  • On Monday morning, the chance rose to 28.7 percent, the highest so far in his second term.
  • Earlier peaks were 24 percent on May 29 and August 12, and 22.1 percent on April 2.
  • Recent polls show a decline in Republican support for President Trump.
  • The decline is linked to backlash over issues including the Iran war.
  • Despite the rising probability, removal from office is still seen as unlikely.
  • Newsweek reached out to the White House for comment, but no statement was reported.
  • The situation is ongoing and may develop further.
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Newsweek
FBI Investigating Missing and Dead Scientists: What We Know So Far

FBI Investigating Missing and Dead Scientists: What We Know So Far

April 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The FBI is investigating a series of missing and dead scientists in the United States. These cases involve experts connected to advanced fields like space, defense, and nuclear research, and the investigation aims to find any links or suspicious activity.

Key Facts

  • FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the agency is looking into cases of missing or deceased scientists.
  • Officials have not found confirmed connections between these cases but are collecting information to check for links.
  • President Donald Trump called the situation "pretty serious stuff" and hopes it is just a coincidence.
  • The investigation includes experts from agencies such as NASA, the Department of Energy, and the Defense Department.
  • The House Oversight Committee has sent letters asking these agencies for information about the cases.
  • Some scientists were involved in advanced projects like anti-gravity research and space missions.
  • The FBI is working with state and local authorities and will act if they find any criminal or conspiracy links.
  • Some people close to the missing or deceased scientists have disagreed with conspiracy theories related to the cases.
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Newsweek
Forget ‘Flying Is Statistically Safe.’ Therapists Have Better Advice for Travel Anxiety Right Now

Forget ‘Flying Is Statistically Safe.’ Therapists Have Better Advice for Travel Anxiety Right Now

April 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Travel anxiety is common and can range from mild nervousness to intense fear, especially during these uncertain times with airport delays and security changes. Therapists suggest understanding the cause of anxiety and managing expectations to better cope with stress related to flying and travel.

Key Facts

  • Travel anxiety means feeling stressed or worried about traveling; it can be mild or very strong.
  • Anxiety about travel is normal because it disrupts daily routine and involves many unknowns.
  • Fear of flying, known as aviophobia, is a specific type of anxiety diagnosed when it lasts over six months and seriously affects life.
  • Travel can worsen other anxiety conditions like generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and OCD.
  • Physical symptoms of travel anxiety include chest tightness, stomach problems, and feeling restless before traveling.
  • Travel anxiety has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic due to ongoing uncertainties.
  • Seeing negative news about crashes or security changes can make travel anxiety feel worse.
  • Therapists recommend recognizing specific worries and preparing for unpredictable situations to manage anxiety better.
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Newsweek
Home Office could face hundreds of claims over asylum families in single rooms

Home Office could face hundreds of claims over asylum families in single rooms

April 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A UK judge criticized the Home Office for housing asylum-seeking families in single hotel rooms for over three years. The judge said this living situation is very stressful and not suitable for families, leading to possible legal actions against the Home Office.

Key Facts

  • Two asylum-seeking families were forced to live in single hotel rooms for more than three years.
  • The judge said living in one room caused stress and did not meet a "dignified standard of living."
  • One family included a Kurdish Iraqi woman, her husband, and two young children living in a small Finchley hotel room.
  • Another case involved an Albanian trafficking victim living with her two teenage sons in a Croydon hotel room.
  • Around 4,300 families are currently housed in “initial accommodation,” mostly single hotel rooms.
  • Lawyers argue the Home Office should move families out of hotels within three months or face more lawsuits.
  • The government closed 11 asylum hotels recently and moved many asylum seekers to army barracks.
  • The Home Office said the judge’s ruling was based on only two cases and not most families.
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Guardian World