US News - The Actual News

What’s in the latest version of Trump’s ‘big bill’ Senate Republicans are trying to pass

June 28, 2025

Congress is deciding on a 940-page bill that includes tax cuts and new spending plans. The bill, supported by Republicans, aims to make certain tax cuts permanent and add new benefits, but Democrats oppose it.

Key Facts:

The bill is 940 pages long and includes tax cuts and spending plans.
It aims to make current tax rates and brackets permanent.
It includes $3.8 trillion in tax cuts.
New tax breaks in the bill would mean no taxes on tips, overtime pay, or some car loans.
The bill proposes a $6,000 deduction for certain older adults earning up to $75,000 a year.
The child tax credit would increase from $2,000 to $2,200.
Republicans are working to pass the bill by the Fourth of July.
Democrats are united in their opposition to the bill.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Hortmans’ beloved dog Gilbert lay in state with slain Minnesota lawmaker and her spouse

June 28, 2025

Melissa Hortman, a Democratic leader in Minnesota, and her husband were killed in a shooting at their home. Their dog, Gilbert, was also injured and later put to sleep. A ceremony was held at the Minnesota Capitol to honor the Hortmans and Gilbert.

Key Facts:

Melissa Hortman was a Democratic leader in Minnesota and a former state House speaker.
Hortman, her husband, and her dog were attacked by a man pretending to be a police officer.
Gilbert, the family's golden retriever, was put to sleep due to his injuries.
The couple and their dog were honored at the Minnesota Capitol, marking the first time a dog received such an honor.
Hundreds of people attended the ceremony to pay their respects.
The accused shooter, Vance Boelter, is charged with killing the Hortmans and attacking other Democratic lawmakers.
Gilbert was considered too friendly to be a service dog and stayed with the Hortmans as a pet.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

'New video games cost me a whole day's wages'

June 28, 2025

Many gamers, like Kady Sands and Dirk Casinillo, find that video game prices have increased significantly, making them less affordable. To save money, some gamers are turning to cheaper, smaller games made by independent developers instead of buying expensive new releases from large companies.

Key Facts:

Kady Sands, 21, noticed video games now cost more than a day's wages and up to £70 for some.
Kady plays games to help cope with city noise and finds portable consoles helpful.
The new Nintendo Switch 2 costs £395.99, with some games like Mario Kart World costing £74.99.
Microsoft and Sony have also raised prices for their gaming consoles.
Indie games offer a cheaper alternative, providing enjoyment similar to pricey games.
Nick Poole from UK Interactive Entertainment explains game production costs are rising due to advanced graphics and complex development.
Dirk Casinillo, a gamer and streamer, has observed a significant rise in game prices, exceeding £75 for some new titles.

Source Information

BBC Business

Lotus has 'no plans' to close any factory

June 28, 2025

Lotus, a car manufacturer, stated that it has no plans to close any of its factories, despite considering opening a new plant in the US. The company is exploring its options in the global market while continuing its operations in the UK.

Key Facts:

Lotus announced there are no plans to close any factories.
The company is thinking about starting a new plant in the US.
The BBC reported that the production at their main site in Hethel, Norfolk, might end, affecting 1,300 jobs.
Production stopped temporarily in Hethel due to tariffs on car imports to the US.
The US market is important for Lotus, but a 25% import tax on cars and parts poses challenges.
Lotus confirmed its commitment to maintaining operations in the UK.

Source Information

BBC Business

Is your lump charcoal made from U.S.-grown hardwood? An expert investigates

June 28, 2025

Some people who grill prefer using lump charcoal over briquettes due to its clean burning and natural wood flavors. However, a check on lump charcoal packages in the U.S. revealed that some labels do not accurately represent the contents, and some products contain unsustainable tropical woods.

Key Facts:

Lump charcoal is made from real wood turned into charcoal without added chemicals.
The wood type used in lump charcoal affects how it burns and flavors the grilled food.
Some charcoal claims include inaccuracies, such as incorrect wood types or origins.
Sustainable charcoal is often made from U.S. hardwood trees; charcoal from tropical woods may involve deforestation.
A study tested 15 major U.S. lump charcoal brands to see if the labels matched the contents.
Nearly 50% of the charcoal was made from oak or mesquite, trees found in North America.
Some charcoal bags labeled as U.S. products contained non-native tropical woods.
The Fair Packaging and Labeling Act requires accurate product descriptions but was not always followed in these products.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

WATCH LIVE: Senate convenes ahead of possible vote on Trump’s big budget bill

June 28, 2025

The Senate plans to work through the weekend to pass President Trump's tax and spending plan by July 4th. Republicans face challenges within their party and from Democrats over cuts to programs like Medicaid and food stamps, while aiming to approve a large tax break package.

Key Facts:

The Senate session begins at 2 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
Republicans in Congress are trying to pass a tax and spending bill despite opposition.
Some Republican lawmakers disagree with proposed cuts to Medicaid and food stamps.
The bill is 940 pages long and was released late Friday night.
Senators will vote on starting debate but need to go through procedures that could take days.
At least 10 hours of debate and many amendment votes are expected.
The bill requires Senate approval and a subsequent vote in the House before reaching the President.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated the bill is still being adjusted.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

J.M. Smucker plans to remove artificial colors from its jams and other products

June 28, 2025

J.M. Smucker Co. announced it will remove artificial colors from all its products by the end of 2027 and from foods sold to schools by the 2026-2027 school year. This move is part of a wider industry trend, as several other companies like Nestle and Kraft Heinz have made similar pledges recently.

Key Facts:

J.M. Smucker Co. plans to eliminate artificial colors from its products by the end of 2027.
Smucker aims to remove synthetic dyes from school food items by the 2026-2027 school year.
Many of their products, like Uncrustables sandwiches, are already free from synthetic dyes.
Some Smucker products, including sugar-free jams and ice cream toppings, still contain these dyes.
Hostess products acquired by Smucker in 2023, such as Twinkies, also have artificial colors.
Other companies like Nestle and Conagra Brands have announced similar plans to get rid of synthetic dyes.
The U.S. government has increased its focus on artificial colors, banning Red 3 from food due to health concerns.

Source Information

NPR Home

DOJ abruptly fires 3 prosecutors involved in Jan. 6 criminal cases, AP sources say

June 28, 2025

The Justice Department fired at least three prosecutors who were working on cases related to the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot. These prosecutors were involved in overseeing or prosecuting cases connected to the attack, but the department did not provide a specific reason for their dismissal.

Key Facts:

The Justice Department dismissed at least three prosecutors involved in January 6 cases.
Two of the fired attorneys were supervisors, and one was a line attorney handling cases.
A letter from Attorney General Pam Bondi announced their immediate removal but did not give reasons.
The dismissals are part of broader actions affecting prosecutors linked to January 6 cases.
President Trump pardoned individuals charged in connection with the Capitol riot on his return to the White House.
More than 1,500 people who participated in the riot were initially prosecuted.
Earlier, Ed Martin, an interim U.S. attorney, demoted several prosecutors from roles linked to these cases.
In January, acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove ordered the firing of about 24 temporary prosecutors related to the January 6 cases.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

Senate rejects Democratic bid to restrain Trump on Iran as GOP backs his strikes on nuclear sites

June 28, 2025

The U.S. Senate voted against a resolution that would have required President Trump to get congressional approval before taking further military action against Iran. The resolution, led by Senator Tim Kaine, was defeated in a 53-47 vote, with most Republicans supporting the president's decision to act without Congress due to perceived threats from Iran.

Key Facts:

The Senate vote was 53-47 to block the resolution.
The resolution was authored by Democratic Senator Tim Kaine.
The resolution wanted President Trump to consult Congress before more military action against Iran.
Republicans mainly opposed the resolution, believing Iran was an immediate threat.
Senator Rand Paul was the only Republican supporting the resolution.
Senator John Fetterman was the only Democrat to oppose the resolution.
The War Powers Resolution mentions presidents should, when possible, consult Congress before military actions.
President Trump stated he would act against Iran again if he thought it necessary.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

What is Canada’s digital tax and why is Trump killing trade talks over it?

June 28, 2025

Canada has introduced a digital services tax on tech companies, which has led to trade tensions with the United States. President Donald Trump ended trade talks with Canada and plans to impose new tariffs in response to this tax, which affects big U.S. tech companies like Amazon and Google.

Key Facts:

Canada has a new digital services tax on tech revenue from users in Canada.
U.S. President Donald Trump ended trade talks with Canada and plans new tariffs.
The tax affects companies with global revenues over $820 million and Canadian revenues over $14.7 million.
The tax rate is 3% on certain digital services, not on profit.
The U.S. is Canada's largest trading partner, with a significant amount of goods traded annually.
The tax is retroactive, meaning it applies to earnings from January 1, 2022.
U.S. Congress members have urged President Trump to oppose this tax.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

WATCH LIVE: Funeral for slain Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman and husband Mark Hortman

June 28, 2025

Former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris plan to attend the funeral of Melissa Hortman, a former Minnesota House Speaker, and her husband, who were killed in an attack. The funeral will take place at the Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis, and neither Biden nor Harris is expected to speak. The man accused of the attack appeared briefly in court and is being held under suicide watch.

Key Facts:

Melissa Hortman, a former Minnesota House Speaker, and her husband were killed in attacks described as an assassination.
Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will attend their funeral but will not speak.
Their funeral will be held at the Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis.
The couple and their pet dog lay in state at the Minnesota Capitol, a rare honor.
Vance Boelter, charged with the killings, appeared in court wearing a suicide prevention suit.
Boelter's court hearing was delayed, and he is under suicide watch in jail.
The Capitol viewing was attended by many, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

People gather to pay respects to slain Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman

June 28, 2025

People are gathering at a Minneapolis basilica to attend the funeral of Minnesota state Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. Lawmakers from different political parties are expected to be present.

Key Facts:

The funeral is for Melissa Hortman, a Minnesota state representative, and her husband.
The event takes place in a basilica in Minneapolis.
Lawmakers from both major political parties will attend.
The funeral is covered by Weekend Edition Saturday.
Additional audio coverage will be available later in the day.

Source Information

NPR National

Here's what's in the GOP megabill headed for a vote in the Senate

June 28, 2025

Senate Republicans are aiming to pass a large tax and spending bill that includes many of President Trump's domestic goals, such as extending tax cuts and boosting funding in several areas. The bill differs from the House's version, particularly in increasing the debt limit and making changes to Medicaid. GOP leaders want it voted on before the self-set deadline of July 4.

Key Facts:

The bill seeks to extend President Trump's 2017 tax cuts.
It includes increased funding for border security, defense, and energy.
The Senate bill proposes raising the debt limit by $5 trillion.
Changes to Medicaid, the healthcare program for low-income people, are included.
The Senate version adds limits to tax deductions for high earners and increases the child tax credit slightly.
The Senate bill expands the standard deduction permanently, unlike the House's temporary plan.
The legislation may face opposition within the GOP, especially from those concerned about national debt and social program cuts.
Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough advised on amendments to align with chamber rules.

Source Information

NPR Home

Funeral home owner who stashed nearly 190 decaying bodies is sentenced to 20 years

June 28, 2025

A funeral home owner in Colorado, Jon Hallford, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for hiding nearly 190 bodies and sending families fake ashes. He also committed fraud by obtaining almost $900,000 in COVID-19 relief funds. Hallford admitted to his actions and will face additional sentencing for corpse abuse.

Key Facts:

Jon Hallford owned the Return to Nature Funeral Home in Penrose, Colorado.
He stashed about 190 dead bodies in a poor condition building between 2019 and 2023.
Families received fake ashes instead of their loved ones' remains.
Hallford pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, involving fake COVID-19 aid claims.
He also pleaded guilty to 191 counts of corpse abuse in state court.
Hallford and his wife used funds for personal purchases, including luxury cars and items.
Families affected by these actions reported emotional distress and grieving difficulties.

Source Information

NPR Home

In Budapest, thousands defy a national ban by participating in a Pride march

June 28, 2025

Thousands of people joined a Pride march in Budapest, even though the government of Viktor Orban had banned the event.

Key Facts:

The march took place in Budapest, Hungary.
Viktor Orban's government banned the annual Pride event.
Despite the ban, thousands participated in the march.
The Pride march represents support for LGBTQ+ rights.
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary.
The event was reported by NPR through journalists Rob Schmitz and Scott Simon.

Source Information

NPR World

Opinion: Remembering Bill Moyers

June 28, 2025

Bill Moyers, a well-known figure in public broadcasting, passed away at the age of 91. He was recognized for his work as a journalist and broadcaster, winning many awards for his documentaries and interviews. Moyers worked with various influential people and was known for asking thoughtful questions.

Key Facts:

Bill Moyers died at the age of 91.
He began his journalism career as a teen reporter in Texas.
Moyers worked as an intern for Senator Lyndon Johnson and later as his press secretary.
He won over 30 Emmy Awards and 11 Peabody Awards for his work in journalism.
Moyers hosted shows like "Bill Moyers Journal," interviewing prominent figures like Elie Wiesel and Desmond Tutu.
He was known for deep, meaningful interviews that often explored complex human issues.
Moyers also served as a Baptist minister early in his career.

Source Information

NPR Home

'Where's our money?' CDC grant funding is moving so slowly layoffs are happening

June 28, 2025

Health departments across the U.S. are experiencing delays in receiving grant funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The delays are affecting local health programs, leading to service disruptions and job losses as departments wait for funding that usually comes from the CDC.

Key Facts:

Health departments rely on CDC funding for most of their budgets, but the funds are not arriving as expected.
Two CDC staff members report that the agency has not received its full funding for the fiscal year 2025.
The CDC is currently operating with only 30 days of funding at a time, which is not enough for long-term planning.
States like Alabama rely on federal grants for over two-thirds of their health department funding.
Delayed funding has caused disruptions in services like HIV prevention in states such as Ohio and job losses in North Carolina.
Health officials warn that these funding delays could lead to more widespread public health issues as services are reduced or halted.

Source Information

NPR Home

Slain Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman to be laid to rest in private funeral service

June 28, 2025

Melissa Hortman, a former Democratic leader in Minnesota, and her husband were killed in their home earlier this month. A private funeral service will be held and broadcast online. The suspect, Vance Boelter, is in custody, accused of targeting multiple political figures.

Key Facts:

Melissa Hortman, a former Minnesota House speaker, and her husband were killed in their Brooklyn Park home.
Their family dog was injured in the attack and later euthanized.
Hortman's funeral will be private, with a livestream available for viewing.
The suspect, Vance Boelter, faces charges for these murders and an attack on another family.
Democratic State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were also attacked but survived.
The incidents are seen as part of a broader trend of political violence.
The Hortmans' children encouraged community kindness to honor their parents.

Source Information

NPR Home

Where the Voting Rights Act stands after the Supreme Court punts on a Louisiana case

June 28, 2025

The U.S. Supreme Court has decided to delay a ruling on a Louisiana case related to redrawing voting district maps, which could affect minority voting rights nationwide. The court will hear more arguments in its next term beginning in October. This decision continues ongoing discussions about the Voting Rights Act and racial discrimination in elections.

Key Facts:

The Supreme Court postponed a decision on a Louisiana redistricting case.
The case may influence voting rights for minority groups across the U.S.
The court plans to hear more arguments starting in October 2023.
Redrawing voting districts affects how communities are represented in elections.
Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act requires fair opportunities for minority voters to elect their candidates.
A federal court order asks Louisiana to have two voting districts where Black voters can realistically elect preferred candidates.
Some non-Black voters have challenged the current map as unfair.
The case ties into broader debates about the future of the Voting Rights Act.

Source Information

NPR Home

Big beautiful bottleneck: Trump's high-stakes week at home and abroad

June 28, 2025

President Trump experienced a significant week with a favorable Supreme Court decision and developments in international relations. The ruling made it more difficult for opponents to block his executive actions, while Trump also claimed progress in peace efforts in the Middle East and commitments at the NATO summit.

Key Facts:

The Supreme Court issued a ruling that limits the use of nationwide injunctions, which have been used to block Trump's executive actions.
The ruling specifically helped Trump with his order to end birthright citizenship, although the constitutionality of the order was not decided.
Trump held a press conference to announce the Supreme Court's decision, calling it a major victory.
The Trump administration highlighted U.S. military actions on Iranian facilities and a subsequent ceasefire between Iran and Israel.
Trump stated that Iran's nuclear program was significantly damaged but acknowledged that assessments are still ongoing.
At the NATO summit, Trump secured commitments he viewed as further successes in his foreign policy efforts.

Source Information

NPR Home