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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Trump nominates Jay Clayton as top US intelligence official after pushback on Bill Pulte

Trump nominates Jay Clayton as top US intelligence official after pushback on Bill Pulte

Summary

President Donald Trump has nominated Jay Clayton to be the top intelligence official in the United States. This came after criticism of Trump’s earlier choice, Bill Pulte, for the same position.

Key Facts

  • President Trump nominated Jay Clayton to be the head of US intelligence.
  • Jay Clayton is a former chair of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
  • Clayton also worked as a US attorney for the southern district of New York.
  • Trump faced criticism for initially choosing Bill Pulte as acting director of National Intelligence.
  • Trump asked the Senate to confirm Jay Clayton quickly.
  • The National Intelligence Director is the leading official in charge of US intelligence agencies.
  • The original nominee, Bill Pulte, was a controversial choice because of his close ties to Trump.
  • Details about the nomination process and next steps are still developing.
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US puts up $750K to evacuate an American who was aboard hantavirus cruise ship from remote island

US puts up $750K to evacuate an American who was aboard hantavirus cruise ship from remote island

Summary

The Trump administration spent $750,000 to charter a private yacht to evacuate an American woman from a remote island after she was exposed to hantavirus on a cruise ship. The costly evacuation added strain to the State Department’s emergency budget, which is also handling other urgent evacuations from conflict and disease outbreaks.

Key Facts

  • An American woman exposed to hantavirus aboard the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius was evacuated from Pitcairn Island, a remote place with about 50 people and no airport.
  • The Trump administration paid $750,000 to charter a private yacht for her evacuation.
  • The MV Hondius cruise ship had a hantavirus outbreak causing illness and at least three deaths among passengers.
  • The woman traveled from the cruise ship to San Francisco, then to Pitcairn Island via Tahiti before the evacuation.
  • The State Department’s emergency budget, known as the “K Fund,” is at its lowest level in seven years due to multiple expensive evacuations.
  • The department is considering moving up to $50 million from other accounts to replenish the emergency fund but has not made a final decision.
  • The evacuation efforts also include U.S. citizens leaving the Middle East due to the Iran conflict and possible evacuations from Ebola-affected countries.
  • The State Department said it provides help when Americans abroad face risks and cannot access normal travel options.
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Trump plans to nominate US Attorney Jay Clayton to be national intelligence director

Trump plans to nominate US Attorney Jay Clayton to be national intelligence director

Summary

President Donald Trump plans to nominate Jay Clayton, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York and former SEC chairman, as director of national intelligence. This nomination comes after controversy over the acting director Bill Pulte and pressure from Congress to name a permanent replacement.

Key Facts

  • Jay Clayton currently serves as U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York.
  • He previously was chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
  • President Trump announced the nomination on social media.
  • The previous director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, resigned last month.
  • Trump had named Bill Pulte as acting director, which caused pushback in Congress.
  • Democrats in Congress refused to renew certain foreign intelligence powers without a permanent director.
  • President Trump praised Clayton as highly respected in the legal community.
  • Trump urged the Senate to confirm Clayton quickly.
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Karmelo Anthony Update: Prison Conditions and Next Steps in Appeal Process

Karmelo Anthony Update: Prison Conditions and Next Steps in Appeal Process

Summary

Karmelo Anthony, a 19-year-old from Texas, was convicted of murder for fatally stabbing Austin Metcalf at a high school track meet. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison and has been transferred to the Wallace Pack Unit, a medium-security state prison, while his lawyers prepare an appeal.

Key Facts

  • Karmelo Anthony was found guilty of murder and sentenced to 35 years in prison.
  • He stabbed Austin Metcalf during a high school track meet in Frisco, Texas, in April 2025.
  • Anthony will be eligible for parole after serving half of his sentence (17.5 years).
  • He has been moved to Wallace Pack Unit in Grimes County, Texas.
  • Wallace Pack Unit is a medium-security prison opened in 1983 with about 1,400 inmates.
  • The prison has faced lawsuits for extreme heat and unsafe drinking water in the past.
  • The prison had to install air conditioning and replace its water supply following court rulings.
  • The legal team for Anthony has already filed a notice to appeal the verdict.
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Trump nominates ex-SEC chair Jay Clayton as intelligence chief

Trump nominates ex-SEC chair Jay Clayton as intelligence chief

Summary

President Donald Trump has nominated Jay Clayton, who once led the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), to be the director of national intelligence. This nomination follows criticism after Trump had appointed Bill Pulte as the temporary head of the U.S. intelligence community.

Key Facts

  • President Trump chose Jay Clayton for director of national intelligence.
  • Jay Clayton used to be the chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
  • Before this, Bill Pulte was acting head of the intelligence community.
  • Trump faced pressure to change his choice after appointing Pulte.
  • The director of national intelligence oversees the U.S. intelligence agencies.
  • The announcement aims to provide stable leadership for the intelligence community.
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Trump taps prosecutor Jay Clayton as next director of national intelligence

Trump taps prosecutor Jay Clayton as next director of national intelligence

Summary

President Donald Trump has nominated Jay Clayton to be the next director of national intelligence. Clayton is currently the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York and was formerly the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced Jay Clayton as his nominee for director of national intelligence.
  • Jay Clayton currently serves as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.
  • Clayton was previously the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
  • The president asked the Senate to confirm Clayton quickly.
  • Bill Pulte is the current acting director of national intelligence but faces criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans.
  • Democrats are refusing to approve an extension of a key intelligence authority until Pulte’s role is resolved.
  • Bill Pulte will take over from Tulsi Gabbard on June 19.
  • President Trump emphasized Clayton’s respected legal background and his cabinet-level appointment.
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Trump picks Jay Clayton for Director of National Intelligence

Trump picks Jay Clayton for Director of National Intelligence

Summary

President Donald Trump said he will nominate Jay Clayton, the current U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, to be the permanent Director of National Intelligence. Clayton would take over from Bill Pulte, who is currently acting in the role.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced Jay Clayton as his nominee for Director of National Intelligence.
  • Jay Clayton is currently the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.
  • Clayton would replace Bill Pulte, the acting Director of National Intelligence.
  • Critics say Bill Pulte lacks enough experience for the job.
  • The position became open after former Director Tulsi Gabbard resigned.
  • The Director of National Intelligence leads the U.S. intelligence community.
  • This role is important for national security and intelligence matters.
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Senate Democrats block short-term extensions of FISA 702 spy powers

Senate Democrats block short-term extensions of FISA 702 spy powers

Summary

Senate Democrats stopped a quick extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which allows certain government spying activities. Senator Tom Cotton requested to extend this law until July 2, but Senator Ron Wyden and other Democrats opposed it.

Key Facts

  • Senate Democrats blocked a short-term extension of Section 702 of FISA.
  • Section 702 lets the government collect foreign intelligence by monitoring communications.
  • Senator Tom Cotton, a Republican from Arkansas, asked for a quick extension until July 2.
  • Senator Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon, opposed the extension.
  • The extension was sought through unanimous consent, meaning no senators objecting would pass it quickly.
  • The disagreement reflects ongoing debates about government spying and privacy protections.
  • The vote delayed the continuation of these spying authorities until a broader agreement or vote is reached.
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Supreme Court hands down opinions on criminal trial venues, bankruptcy court, investment regulations

Supreme Court hands down opinions on criminal trial venues, bankruptcy court, investment regulations

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court gave decisions on three legal cases related to criminal trial locations, bankruptcy courts, and rules for investment. These rulings are part of the court’s important decisions near the end of its current session.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court made rulings on three cases on Thursday.
  • One case involved where criminal trials can be held.
  • Another case dealt with how bankruptcy courts handle certain issues.
  • A third case focused on rules that affect investment regulations.
  • These decisions are part of the final major rulings before the court’s term ends.
  • CBS News legal correspondent Jan Crawford provided explanations about the rulings.
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Man accused of killing Minnesota lawmaker and husband pleads guilty

Man accused of killing Minnesota lawmaker and husband pleads guilty

Summary

A man named Vance Boelter pleaded guilty to killing Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and to shooting another lawmaker and his wife. He made a deal to avoid the death penalty and will likely spend the rest of his life in prison.

Key Facts

  • Vance Boelter admitted to killing Democrat Melissa Hortman and her husband at their home.
  • He also shot state lawmaker John Hoffman and his wife, who survived.
  • Boelter pleaded guilty to six charges, including murder and stalking.
  • Prosecutors agreed not to seek the death penalty as part of a plea deal.
  • Boelter faces two life sentences plus 40 years in prison under the federal case.
  • Minnesota state charges remain, including murder and attempted murder.
  • The attacks happened amid rising concerns about violence against political figures.
  • Other political violence incidents include an arson attack on Pennsylvania’s governor and a shooting of commentator Charlie Kirk.
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Steve Hilton's Chances of Beating Becerra to Flip California: New Poll

Steve Hilton's Chances of Beating Becerra to Flip California: New Poll

Summary

A recent poll shows Democrat Xavier Becerra leading Republican Steve Hilton in the California governor race by 52% to 31%. The poll reflects strong party loyalty and a significant number of undecided voters who lean towards Becerra, while President Trump’s endorsement of Hilton may hurt Hilton’s chances.

Key Facts

  • Becerra leads Hilton 52% to 31% among registered California voters.
  • The poll was done by UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies from May 19 to 24 with over 8,500 voters.
  • About 80% of Democrats support Becerra, and about 84% of Republicans support Hilton.
  • Almost one-third of voters have no party preference; 43% of them support Becerra, 28% support Hilton, and 29% are undecided.
  • Becerra has strong support in major areas like the Bay Area and Los Angeles County.
  • Hilton leads only in a small region in Northern California, which is about 2% of the electorate.
  • President Donald Trump’s endorsement helped Hilton in the primary but is seen as a disadvantage in the general election because 69% of voters disapprove of Trump.
  • Becerra’s popularity grew after another Democratic candidate dropped out amid controversy, consolidating Democratic support behind him.
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Listeria outbreak tied to soft cheese kills 1, sickens others across several states, FDA says

Listeria outbreak tied to soft cheese kills 1, sickens others across several states, FDA says

Summary

A listeria outbreak linked to soft cheese has caused one death and made several people sick across multiple states. The Maryland Department of Health has stopped Clover Hill Dairy from operating while investigations continue.

Key Facts

  • One person has died due to the listeria outbreak.
  • Several other people became sick from the same outbreak.
  • The illness is connected to soft cheese products.
  • The affected states span across different regions.
  • Maryland health officials suspended the operating license of Clover Hill Dairy.
  • The suspension means Clover Hill Dairy must stop production for now.
  • Authorities are investigating the outbreak to prevent further illness.
  • Listeria is a bacteria that can cause serious infection, especially in vulnerable people.
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Watch live: Rubio, UFC’s Dana White sign sports diplomacy memo

Watch live: Rubio, UFC’s Dana White sign sports diplomacy memo

Summary

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and UFC President Dana White will sign an agreement to create a partnership focused on promoting sports diplomacy. This agreement aims to use sports to improve international relationships, with the UFC playing a key role.

Key Facts

  • Marco Rubio is serving as Secretary of State.
  • Dana White is the President and CEO of the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship).
  • They will sign a memorandum of understanding on Thursday afternoon.
  • The agreement creates a public-private partnership to support sports diplomacy.
  • UFC is a major global mixed martial arts (MMA) organization founded in the United States.
  • The partnership intends to reflect U.S. leadership through sports.
  • Sports diplomacy means using sports to build better relationships between countries.
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False alarm prompts hazmat response at Pentagon, sources say

False alarm prompts hazmat response at Pentagon, sources say

Summary

A false alarm caused a hazardous materials (hazmat) response at the Pentagon on Thursday. Employees were told to stay inside until it was confirmed safe.

Key Facts

  • A false alarm triggered the hazmat team to respond at the Pentagon.
  • The event happened on a Thursday.
  • Pentagon employees were ordered to shelter in place during the alert.
  • Officials issued an all-clear after confirming there was no real hazard.
  • The response was precautionary to ensure everyone's safety.
  • The incident involved emergency teams trained to handle dangerous substances.
  • No injuries or actual hazardous materials were reported.
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Melania Trump unveils a spinoff of Trump Accounts for foster kids

Melania Trump unveils a spinoff of Trump Accounts for foster kids

Summary

First Lady Melania Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent introduced "Fostering the Future Accounts," a new version of Trump Accounts aimed at children in foster care. These accounts will give $1,000 to eligible foster children to help them build savings that grow over time and become accessible when they turn 18.

Key Facts

  • Fostering the Future Accounts are a spinoff of Trump Accounts, designed specifically for foster children.
  • The program allows child welfare agencies to open accounts on behalf of children in foster care.
  • Each eligible child will receive $1,000 from the federal government when the account is opened.
  • Accounts will open for contributions starting July 4, 2026.
  • Eligible children must be U.S. citizens born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028.
  • The White House estimates an account balance could reach $5,800 by age 18 and $18,100 by age 28 without additional contributions.
  • 23 governors have committed to help enroll children in their states.
  • About 330,000 children are in the U.S. foster care system, and many face challenges like homelessness and unemployment after aging out of care.
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WATCH: A sneak peak of UFC's Octagon at the White House

WATCH: A sneak peak of UFC's Octagon at the White House

Summary

President Donald Trump is hosting a UFC mixed martial arts event on the South Lawn of the White House as part of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The event has involved more than seven federal agencies, hundreds of workers, and at least $60 million, and faces a legal challenge from residents who say it violates federal park rules.

Key Facts

  • The UFC event will feature seven fights and is scheduled over a weekend, with the main matches on Sunday.
  • The fight cage, called the Octagon, is set up on the White House South Lawn with seating for about 4,000 people and space for 120,000 ticket holders nearby.
  • Seven federal agencies, including Homeland Security and the Federal Aviation Administration, dedicated significant resources to preparing the event.
  • The UFC and related groups spent over $60 million on the event, not including unspecified government costs.
  • The event includes a ceremonial weigh-in, a concert by The Zac Brown Band, fan activities, and meet-and-greets throughout the weekend.
  • Fourteen fighters are competing, undergoing strict training and weight-cutting processes to make their fighting weight.
  • A federal lawsuit by two Virginia residents aims to stop the event, claiming it breaks rules against sports events on federal parkland.
  • The National Park Service opposes the lawsuit and has detailed the extensive preparations in court filings.
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Top Trump officials announce criminal charges over migrant children allegedly smuggled

Top Trump officials announce criminal charges over migrant children allegedly smuggled

Summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mulln announced criminal charges related to a smuggling conspiracy involving unaccompanied migrant children brought into the United States. The charges target individuals allegedly involved in illegally moving these children across the border.

Key Facts

  • The announcement was made by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mulln.
  • The charges concern a smuggling conspiracy.
  • The conspiracy involves unaccompanied migrant children brought into the U.S.
  • The officials stated that the children were allegedly smuggled illegally.
  • The case is under investigation by U.S. law enforcement.
  • The accused individuals face criminal prosecution.
  • This is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to address border security issues.
  • The government aims to prevent illegal movement of minors across the border.
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Karmelo Anthony's family says "nobody wins" after murder verdict

Karmelo Anthony's family says "nobody wins" after murder verdict

Summary

Karmelo Anthony was found guilty of murder for stabbing fellow student Austin Metcalf at a Texas track meet in April 2025. Anthony was sentenced to 35 years in prison, and his family plans to appeal the verdict, citing concerns about the trial process and jury selection.

Key Facts

  • Karmelo Anthony stabbed Austin Metcalf during a track meet in Frisco, Texas on April 2, 2025.
  • The jury convicted Anthony of murder after less than three hours of deliberation.
  • Anthony was sentenced to 35 years in prison and is held in a Texas prison northwest of Houston.
  • Anthony and his family say he acted in self-defense after being taunted and pushed by Metcalf and his teammates.
  • The conviction was made by an all-White jury, which Anthony’s family says raises concerns about fairness.
  • Anthony’s legal team has filed an appeal, focusing on jury selection and possible witness inconsistencies.
  • Both families have experienced threats and hostile messages following the verdict.
  • The district attorney stated that justice was served and jury members testified truthfully.
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Burnham’s momentum builds in Makerfield as byelection nears

Burnham’s momentum builds in Makerfield as byelection nears

Summary

Andy Burnham is gaining strong support in the upcoming byelection in Makerfield, a seat in northern England. Many local Labour Party members and MPs are actively campaigning for him, focusing on local and national issues to attract undecided voters and compete with Reform UK.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham is running for a parliamentary seat in Makerfield, an area in northern England.
  • Labour Party MPs and activists are heavily involved, canvassing voters multiple times.
  • The campaign focuses on local problems like flooding, housing, and services, as well as national issues such as immigration and tax.
  • Supporters encourage voters to back Burnham’s campaign specifically, rather than just Labour.
  • Reform UK and Restore Britain are political groups also competing in the area.
  • Labour MPs involved come from different wings of the party, showing unity for this election.
  • Volunteers are traveling in groups and staying with locals to support the campaign.
  • The team managing the campaign has many female leaders replacing the former male leadership group.
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BBC tours UFC arena at White House

BBC tours UFC arena at White House

Summary

The UFC Freedom 250 fight event will take place on the South Lawn of the White House on June 14, which is President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday. The event is part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The BBC toured the fight arena called the Octagon and the large lighting structure named "the Claw" that will be used for the event.

Key Facts

  • UFC Freedom 250 event is scheduled for June 14 on the White House’s South Lawn.
  • The date marks President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.
  • The event celebrates the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence.
  • The fight stage is called the Octagon.
  • A large light structure called "the Claw" is 92 feet tall and 154 feet wide.
  • Over 4,300 people are expected to attend the event.
  • The BBC’s White House reporter Bernd Debusmann took a tour of the arena and structures.
  • The UFC event includes cage fights as part of the celebration.
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