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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Women held at much-denounced Ice detention camp sign on to hunger strike

Women held at much-denounced Ice detention camp sign on to hunger strike

June 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Dozens of women detained at the Delaney Hall immigration facility in New Jersey have started a hunger and labor strike. They are asking ICE to release certain detainees, improve living conditions, and speed up their immigration cases.

Key Facts

  • The strike involves nearly 40 women held in unit 1 of Delaney Hall, a private detention center run by Geo Group.
  • The women want ICE to release detainees under age 21, those with medical issues, and mothers.
  • They demand better conditions, medical care, legal help, family visits, safe water, and protection from abuse.
  • Delaney Hall opened last year under a 15-year, billion-dollar contract between ICE and Geo Group.
  • Earlier strikes by over 300 men at the same facility led to protests and a police crackdown using pepper spray, Tasers, and teargas.
  • Detainees and advocates say ICE and Geo Group have responded with retaliation like canceling visits, removing communication devices, and transferring detainees.
  • Lawmakers and activists have visited the facility and reported poor medical care, bad food, and neglectful treatment.
  • The strike comes after President Trump signed a $70 billion spending bill to fund immigration enforcement agencies.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Donaldson denies meeting sex abuse accuser to 'nip in the bud' allegations

Donaldson denies meeting sex abuse accuser to 'nip in the bud' allegations

June 12, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson denies meeting one of his sex abuse accusers to try and stop the allegations. He is on trial at Newry Crown Court, facing 18 charges including rape and indecent assault, which he says are not true.

Key Facts

  • Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is being tried for 18 offenses, including rape and indecent assault.
  • The alleged crimes happened between 1985 and 2008.
  • There are two accusers in the case, both claiming abuse as children.
  • Donaldson denies meeting one accuser to “nip in the bud” or stop allegations early on.
  • A meeting took place in the late 1990s at a Christian center, arranged by a founder there.
  • Donaldson says he went to the meeting willingly and did not know it was about allegations.
  • The accuser said Donaldson apologized, but he says he was only sorry if he made her feel uncomfortable.
  • Donaldson’s wife faces charges of helping him with the alleged crimes.
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BBC Top Stories
Autistic children injected with unapproved stem cell treatments supported by RFK Jr

Autistic children injected with unapproved stem cell treatments supported by RFK Jr

June 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Young autistic children in the US are receiving unapproved stem cell treatments using umbilical cord cells, a practice encouraged by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. These treatments lack scientific proof, can be risky, and cost families up to $20,000 per session. Despite FDA warnings against these unapproved therapies, clinics continue to promote them, and the health secretary has supported their use while reducing funding for conventional autism research.

Key Facts

  • Some US clinics offer stem cell treatments for autistic children starting at 18 months old.
  • The stem cells come from umbilical cords and are given intravenously, often under sedation.
  • Each treatment can cost families up to $20,000, with recommendations for repeated sessions.
  • There is no strong scientific evidence showing these treatments improve autism symptoms.
  • A major clinical trial at Duke University found only minimal benefits and minor safety issues.
  • The FDA warns that unapproved stem cell products may cause serious problems like blindness and infections.
  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr., US Health Secretary, has cut funding for autism research and supports alternative therapies.
  • Kennedy has appeared at events promoting stem cell treatments and appointed advocates to federal autism advisory roles.
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Guardian World
From 1976 to 2026: Two dramatic megatrends shaping America’s future

From 1976 to 2026: Two dramatic megatrends shaping America’s future

June 12, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, it faces two major long-term changes: a quickly growing national debt and large shifts in population. These changes may affect the country's future in important ways.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. is celebrating 250 years since its founding.
  • The national debt is growing rapidly.
  • Population patterns are changing in ways not seen before.
  • These two big trends are expected to influence the country’s future.
  • The article highlights the potential challenges tied to these trends.
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The Hill
Ring Girls’ Outfits at Trump’s UFC Fight Revealed—Includes Flag Code Breach

Ring Girls’ Outfits at Trump’s UFC Fight Revealed—Includes Flag Code Breach

June 12, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The UFC unveiled new red, white, and blue outfits for its “Octagon Girls” at a planned fight night event on the White House lawn. Some people criticized the designs, saying they break U.S. flag etiquette rules, though these rules are not legally binding.

Key Facts

  • The UFC’s “Octagon Girls” outfits use stars-and-stripes patterns in red, white, and blue colors.
  • The event, called “UFC Freedom 250,” will happen on the South Lawn of the White House.
  • The event is part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of American independence.
  • The U.S. Flag Code says the flag should not be worn as clothing or costumes.
  • The outfits are stylized and not made from actual flags but still drew criticism for disrespecting flag etiquette.
  • The Flag Code is advisory and not legally enforceable for private citizens.
  • Opinions on the outfits are mixed, with some calling them patriotic and others calling them tacky.
  • The UFC event has also faced other criticism about its cost, size, and use of public land at the White House.
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Newsweek
Fisa spy powers almost certain to expire after Congress fails to act – US politics live

Fisa spy powers almost certain to expire after Congress fails to act – US politics live

June 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A key part of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), known as section 702, is set to expire because Congress has not extended it. The delay is mainly due to opposition to President Trump's temporary choice, Bill Pulte, to lead the intelligence agency, causing a political showdown.

Key Facts

  • Section 702 of FISA, which allows US intelligence collection abroad, is due to expire at midnight.
  • Congress failed to pass a temporary extension before the deadline.
  • Opposition to Bill Pulte, President Trump’s nominee for acting Director of National Intelligence (DNI), is a main reason for the delay.
  • Many Democrats and some Republicans oppose Pulte because of his limited intelligence experience.
  • President Trump later nominated Jay Clayton as a permanent intelligence director.
  • Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called for Pulte to be removed from the DNI position.
  • The debate over FISA section 702 has been ongoing for years and is about balancing security with civil liberties.
  • Other related news include discussions about a settlement with Iran and controversies involving President Trump's name on the Kennedy Center.
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Guardian World Guardian US
WATCH: Massive explosions captured on video destroy multiple homes

WATCH: Massive explosions captured on video destroy multiple homes

June 12, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Massive explosions occurred in Clinton Township, Pennsylvania, destroying at least two homes and injuring three people, including an 84-year-old woman. Officials reported the damage following the blasts captured on video.

Key Facts

  • The explosions took place in Clinton Township, Pennsylvania.
  • At least two homes were destroyed by the blasts.
  • Three people were injured in the incident.
  • One of the injured is an 84-year-old woman.
  • The explosions were recorded on video.
  • Local officials provided the information about the damage and injuries.
  • The event caused significant property damage in the area.
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ABC News
Former Uvalde school police chief set to appear in court

Former Uvalde school police chief set to appear in court

June 12, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Pete Arredondo, the former police chief at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, is scheduled to appear in court as his criminal trial continues. He faces charges for endangering students by delaying the response to the 2022 school shooting that killed 19 students and 2 teachers, while federal agents' refusal to cooperate has caused delays in the trial.

Key Facts

  • Pete Arredondo was charged in 2024 with 10 counts of endangering students related to the Uvalde school shooting in 2022.
  • The shooting happened on May 24, 2022, at Robb Elementary School, resulting in 21 deaths.
  • Prosecutors say Arredondo waited about 77 minutes before law enforcement entered the classroom to stop the shooter.
  • Arredondo denies wrongdoing, saying he followed training and did not see himself as the incident commander.
  • The trial has been delayed partly because U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents involved in the shooting have refused to testify.
  • Two ongoing civil lawsuits seek to force CBP agents to cooperate and attend the trial.
  • A judge is considering whether to move the trial out of Uvalde due to its sensitive nature and to address CBP’s refusal to cooperate.
  • A previous trial of a former school police officer involved was acquitted, increasing attention on Arredondo’s case.
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ABC News
WATCH: California officer accidentally shot by colleague during 'horseplay'

WATCH: California officer accidentally shot by colleague during 'horseplay'

June 12, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

A video shows a California police officer getting accidentally shot in the shoulder by a fellow officer during playful behavior inside a police parking garage. Police described the incident as "horseplay."

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened inside a police parking garage in California.
  • One officer accidentally shot another officer in the shoulder.
  • Police referred to the incident as "horseplay," meaning playful or joking behavior.
  • The video of the event was recently released to the public.
  • No details were given about the condition of the injured officer.
  • The incident involved colleagues from the same police force.
  • No mention of charges or disciplinary actions at this time.
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ABC News
A powerful US surveillance law is set to expire – what happens now?

A powerful US surveillance law is set to expire – what happens now?

June 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A key part of a US surveillance law called Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) is about to expire. This law allows intelligence agencies to collect some communications involving foreigners without a warrant. Congress has struggled to agree on renewing or reforming this section amid debates about privacy and national security.

Key Facts

  • Section 702 was created in 2008 and lets agencies collect emails and texts involving foreigners outside the US without a warrant.
  • If an American talks to a foreign target, their communications can also be collected under this law.
  • Privacy advocates argue the government uses this law to spy on Americans without warrants, which they say is unconstitutional.
  • Intelligence agencies claim they need these powers to prevent terrorist attacks.
  • Congress has only passed short-term extensions for Section 702 so far in 2024.
  • House Republican leaders oppose adding a warrant requirement for surveilling Americans, blocking reforms.
  • A tied vote in 2024 stopped a proposed amendment to require warrants, but advocates believe future votes may pass such a reform.
  • The surveillance program can continue through special court approvals until March 2027 even if the law’s renewal lapses.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Welcome to ‘the Claw’: the White House fighting cage captures Trump era rot | Sidney Blumenthal

Welcome to ‘the Claw’: the White House fighting cage captures Trump era rot | Sidney Blumenthal

June 12, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

The government is facing a legal challenge against President Donald Trump’s plan to demolish part of the White House and build a large ballroom without necessary approvals or public input. At the same time, a large cage for a UFC martial arts event called “UFC Freedom 250” is being set up on the White House grounds to celebrate President Trump’s 80th birthday, raising concerns about misuse of federal property and influence.

Key Facts

  • President Trump decided to demolish the East Wing of the White House and construct a 90,000 square foot ballroom.
  • This decision was made without congressional approval, oversight from federal commissions, environmental studies, or public input.
  • The National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Public Integrity Project have filed lawsuits to stop these actions, calling them unlawful.
  • The Department of Justice argued that the president can act without limits or legal challenge if he moves quickly enough.
  • A 600-ton, 154-foot tall structure called “the Claw” is being built on the South Lawn of the White House for a UFC fighting event.
  • The UFC event, named “UFC Freedom 250,” is scheduled to mark President Trump’s 80th birthday with martial arts matches inside the cage.
  • The event will include weigh-ins and face-offs at the Lincoln Memorial, with fights shown on big screens on the Ellipse for many spectators.
  • Critics argue the event is a private, for-profit spectacle that uses federal property to benefit Trump’s political and financial allies.
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Guardian US
Trump keeps insulting female journalists. It’s time for the press to stop tolerating it | Margaret Sullivan

Trump keeps insulting female journalists. It’s time for the press to stop tolerating it | Margaret Sullivan

June 12, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

President Donald Trump has regularly insulted female journalists when they ask him questions or challenge his statements. A media commentator suggests that journalists should stop tolerating these insults and respond more firmly by confronting lies directly and ending interviews if necessary.

Key Facts

  • President Trump has insulted several female reporters, including calling one "Piggy" and another "corrupt."
  • He has also insulted male journalists but shows a stronger pattern of hostility toward women in media.
  • Female journalists often continue to question him despite the insults, citing professionalism.
  • The commentator suggests journalists should come prepared with proof ("receipts") to challenge Trump’s false claims during interviews.
  • More direct confrontation about lies and stopping interviews when insults or lies occur are recommended strategies.
  • Transparency with the public about why an interview is stopped is also advised.
  • Examples of Trump’s false claims include denying promises about not starting wars and lying about election rigging.
  • The goal is to protect journalists from abuse and ensure the public receives honest answers.
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Guardian US
I Became a Surrogate Again—but 8 Months Later, I Still Had the Baby

I Became a Surrogate Again—but 8 Months Later, I Still Had the Baby

June 12, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A woman shared her experience of becoming a surrogate mother twice. Due to travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, she ended up caring for the second baby herself for several months until the intended parents could travel from China.

Key Facts

  • The woman first considered surrogacy during financial struggles and after not qualifying for egg donation.
  • She convinced her husband to support her decision after he learned more about surrogacy from another surrogate.
  • She was matched with intended parents who asked her to carry a second child after losing previous surrogates.
  • The second baby, named Emily, was born just as the COVID-19 pandemic restricted international travel.
  • The intended parents were unable to travel from China to pick up Emily due to border closures and flight cancellations.
  • The surrogate and her husband agreed to care for Emily temporarily rather than placing her in foster care.
  • Emily lived with the surrogate’s family for several months, becoming part of their daily life before reuniting with her parents.
  • The surrogate had personal experience with foster care, influencing her decision to keep Emily safe at home.
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Newsweek
Democrats seek next ObamaCare ahead of midterms amid rising health costs

Democrats seek next ObamaCare ahead of midterms amid rising health costs

June 12, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Democrats are working to develop a new healthcare plan similar to ObamaCare before the upcoming midterm elections because health costs are rising and many Americans are worried about paying for care. Healthcare remains one of the most important issues for voters this election year.

Key Facts

  • The Democratic Party wants to create a new healthcare plan like ObamaCare.
  • Rising health costs are making healthcare unaffordable for many Americans.
  • Healthcare consistently ranks as a top issue for voters in the 2024 midterms.
  • A June poll by Emerson College showed healthcare is among the top five voter concerns.
  • Democrats see the midterm elections as a chance to address healthcare affordability.
  • Public frustration with healthcare expenses is growing nationwide.
  • ObamaCare refers to the Affordable Care Act passed during President Obama’s administration.
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The Hill
Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff sees presidential chatter grow among Democrats

Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff sees presidential chatter grow among Democrats

June 12, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senator Jon Ossoff from Georgia is focused on winning his reelection in November. At the same time, some Democrats are beginning to talk about his potential for bigger roles as the party looks for younger leaders and prepares for the next presidential nomination race.

Key Facts

  • Jon Ossoff is a Democratic senator representing Georgia.
  • He is running for reelection in November.
  • Democrats want to see him win his current election before discussing future plans.
  • The Democratic Party is looking for younger leaders.
  • There is an open and developing race for the next Democratic presidential nomination.
  • Some people in the party are starting to talk about Ossoff as a possible future presidential candidate.
  • This conversation is still early and mostly about potential, not official plans.
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The Hill
Lawmakers ramp up scrutiny of political fundraising platforms

Lawmakers ramp up scrutiny of political fundraising platforms

June 12, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Lawmakers from both parties are increasing their examination of political fundraising websites ActBlue and WinRed before the upcoming midterm elections. Republicans have accused ActBlue of allowing illegal donations, including from foreign sources, while both platforms are facing more oversight.

Key Facts

  • ActBlue is the main fundraising site for Democratic candidates.
  • WinRed is the fundraising platform used by Republican candidates.
  • Republicans, including officials from President Trump’s team, claim ActBlue is at risk of fraud and foreign money.
  • Both political parties are closely watching online donations ahead of the fall midterm elections.
  • Lawmakers are demanding more transparency and rules for these fundraising platforms.
  • The focus is on preventing illegal donations and ensuring fair campaign finance.
  • The scrutiny reflects growing concerns about online political fundraising in U.S. elections.
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The Hill
Senate GOP balks at Trump demand to boost defense funding in third reconciliation bill

Senate GOP balks at Trump demand to boost defense funding in third reconciliation bill

June 12, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senate Republican leaders do not want to approve President Donald Trump’s request for a third budget reconciliation bill to add $350 billion more for defense spending. They recently worked long hours to pass a $70 billion bill for immigration enforcement and are hesitant to approve more large spending bills quickly.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants to use budget reconciliation again to add $350 billion to defense funding.
  • Senate Republicans have already worked long hours on recent spending bills.
  • They just passed a $70 billion package focused on immigration enforcement.
  • GOP senators are reluctant to approve another large spending bill so soon.
  • Budget reconciliation is a fast process for passing budget-related bills without needing 60 votes.
  • The resistance shows tension within the Senate GOP about how to handle large government spending.
  • Defense funding requests are part of broader debates about government budgets and priorities.
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The Hill
Where Trump has lost support with independents, according to AP-NORC polling

Where Trump has lost support with independents, according to AP-NORC polling

June 12, 2026 • AP News

Summary

New polling analysis from AP-NORC shows that independent voters in the United States have become less supportive of President Donald Trump during his second term, especially those without a college degree. The analysis covers polls from mid-2024 to early 2026 and highlights a steady decline in Trump's approval among independents.

Key Facts

  • Independents without a college degree went from about 50% positive views of Trump around the 2024 election to about 25% positive this spring.
  • The education gap in Trump’s support among independents has disappeared, with both college-educated and non-college-educated independents holding similar negative views.
  • The data comes from nearly two dozen AP-NORC polls taken between July 2024 and April 2026.
  • Independent support dropped during key events, including the last months of 2024, Trump's first 100 days, the passage of the Big Beautiful Bill in 2025, a government shutdown, and the start of the Iran war.
  • Small groups like Black and Hispanic independents, who supported Trump in 2024, also showed decreased support over time.
  • More Americans now identify as independents, and their declining support is important for upcoming midterm elections.
  • Support among Democrats and Republicans has remained mostly stable during Trump’s second term.
  • Early in Trump’s second term, independents without college degrees became less positive toward him quickly after the 2024 election.
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AP News PBS NewsHour
Once beset by power outages, Puerto Ricans also hit with severe water shortages

Once beset by power outages, Puerto Ricans also hit with severe water shortages

June 12, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Thousands of people in Puerto Rico are facing serious water shortages in many parts of the island, including the capital San Juan. The government has activated the National Guard to help deliver water as residents struggle to get enough clean water for daily use.

Key Facts

  • Water shortages are affecting some of Puerto Rico’s most populated areas, including San Juan.
  • Officials have not clearly explained the cause of the water shortage.
  • Residents must buy water, use laundromats, and carry heavy buckets to manage everyday needs like washing and showering.
  • The elderly and disabled are especially affected, with some needing hospital care.
  • Water outages have been happening intermittently for more than a year due to underinvestment in infrastructure.
  • Nearly 40,000 customers lost water supply in early June.
  • The governor activated the National Guard to deliver water using trucks.
  • Additional water trucks were brought in to support hotels and housing complexes.
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AP News
Ariana Grande rebukes White House for using her music in ‘barbaric, inhumane’ ICE video

Ariana Grande rebukes White House for using her music in ‘barbaric, inhumane’ ICE video

June 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Ariana Grande criticized President Trump’s White House for using her song in a video showing ICE agents detaining immigrants. After her complaint, the music was removed. Several other musicians have also spoken out against the White House using their music in similar videos without permission.

Key Facts

  • The White House posted a video of ICE agents detaining immigrants with Ariana Grande’s song "Bye" as background music.
  • Ariana Grande asked the White House to stop using her music for what she called “barbaric” and “inhumane” actions.
  • The White House removed Grande’s song from the video after her request.
  • Other artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Jess Glynne, Kenny Loggins, and SZA have also objected to the White House using their music without permission.
  • President Trump’s White House uses these music clips on social media in videos linked to immigration enforcement or pro-Trump messages.
  • These actions are seen as a tactic by the White House to provoke artists and stir controversy on social media.
  • Ariana Grande is currently preparing to release her eighth album, Petal, with a popular lead single topping global charts.
  • The White House responded to criticism by saying their videos aim to provoke media coverage and discussion.
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Guardian World