The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Democrats rally round Platner in Maine as Trump reaffirms grip on GOP after primaries

Democrats rally round Platner in Maine as Trump reaffirms grip on GOP after primaries

June 10, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Graham Platner won the Democratic primary in Maine with 72% of the vote and will face Republican Susan Collins in the November Senate election. President Donald Trump continued to influence the Republican Party by helping to defeat a candidate who wanted to release Jeffrey Epstein files. The Maine race is important because Democrats see Collins’s seat as vulnerable.

Key Facts

  • Primary elections were held in Maine, Nevada, North Dakota, and South Carolina ahead of the November midterm elections.
  • Graham Platner, a Marine veteran and oyster farmer, won the Democratic primary in Maine with 72%.
  • Platner defeated Governor Janet Mills, who had suspended her campaign but remained on the ballot.
  • Platner has faced controversy over past behavior, including old offensive posts, a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, and accusations of past intimidation.
  • Platner has apologized for his past actions and linked some issues to PTSD and depression from military service in Iraq and Afghanistan.
  • Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand expressed strong support for Platner’s campaign.
  • Platner criticized Susan Collins for breaking promises on abortion rights and accused her of corruption.
  • The Maine Senate race could influence which party controls the Senate after the 2024 elections.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Guardian World Guardian US
Supreme Court's final cases loom over Trump's immigration, election hopes

Supreme Court's final cases loom over Trump's immigration, election hopes

June 10, 2026 • Axios

Summary

The Supreme Court is set to decide important cases related to voting rules, immigration policies, and presidential powers. These decisions could affect mail-in ballot deadlines, birthright citizenship, deportation policies, transgender athletes in sports, and President Trump’s ability to remove certain officials.

Key Facts

  • The Court will rule on a Mississippi law that allows mail-in ballots received up to five days after Election Day to be counted.
  • President Trump opposes mail-in ballots but has voted by mail himself.
  • The Court will hear a case challenging limits on how much money political parties can spend with candidates.
  • Trump signed an order limiting birthright citizenship to children born in the U.S. only if at least one parent is legally in the country.
  • The Court is reviewing the Trump administration’s effort to end temporary protected status (TPS) for Haitian and Syrian immigrants.
  • A decision will clarify if people stopped at the U.S.-Mexico border on the Mexican side can apply for asylum.
  • The Court will consider cases on transgender athlete bans in Idaho and West Virginia under Title IX rules.
  • The Court is also examining President Trump’s power to fire officials in the Federal Reserve and the Federal Trade Commission.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Axios
Bill Gates to face questions from House committee over links to Jeffrey Epstein

Bill Gates to face questions from House committee over links to Jeffrey Epstein

June 10, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Bill Gates will testify in a private session before the U.S. House committee investigating Jeffrey Epstein's criminal activities. Lawmakers will question Gates about his previous meetings and connections with Epstein, following released documents that mention Gates and show repeated contact.

Key Facts

  • Bill Gates is scheduled to appear before the House Oversight and Reform Committee in a closed-door meeting.
  • The committee is investigating Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender.
  • Documents released by the Justice Department mention Gates multiple times and show several meetings between him and Epstein.
  • Gates has denied any knowledge of Epstein’s illegal actions and has not been accused of wrongdoing.
  • The Gates Foundation had some staff discussions with Epstein but did not pursue any partnership or funding deals.
  • The foundation is conducting an external review of its past contacts with Epstein and its policies on partnerships.
  • Gates has publicly regretted meeting Epstein and called it a mistake.
  • Gates admitted he met Epstein between 2011 and 2014, flew with him on a private jet, and spent time together in several countries but denies staying overnight at Epstein's properties.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Guardian World Guardian US
Nancy Mace Stands By Epstein Files Fight After Fifth Place Finish

Nancy Mace Stands By Epstein Files Fight After Fifth Place Finish

June 10, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Republican Nancy Mace finished fifth in South Carolina’s GOP primary for governor after she pushed to release the Jeffrey Epstein files. She said she has no regrets about her decision, saying it was a moral issue, even though it may have cost her support and President Trump’s endorsement.

Key Facts

  • Nancy Mace is a Republican representative who ran for governor in South Carolina.
  • She finished fifth with 12.1% of the vote in the June 9 GOP primary.
  • Mace voted to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, which made her unpopular with some voters and President Trump.
  • President Trump’s endorsement was linked to success in the primary, and Mace did not get it.
  • Pamela Evette and Alan Wilson advanced to a runoff, leading the Republican field.
  • Mace said she decided to release the Epstein files because of her personal experience as a survivor of sexual assault.
  • She described exposing misconduct as more important than winning the election.
  • Mace said she will continue to be active in public life despite the loss.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Newsweek
Police are investigating a large burning cross at a Chicago park

Police are investigating a large burning cross at a Chicago park

June 10, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A large wooden cross was found burning in Chicago’s Grant Park on the afternoon of July 9, 2026. Police are investigating how and why the cross was set on fire, and there were no injuries reported.

Key Facts

  • The burning cross was discovered in Grant Park, a popular area near Lake Michigan in Chicago.
  • The Chicago Fire Department confirmed the object was a wooden cross and put out the fire.
  • Police are investigating the circumstances and the reason behind the burning cross.
  • No one was hurt, and the investigation is ongoing.
  • Burning crosses have historically been used as symbols of hate, especially linked to the Ku Klux Klan.
  • A motorist named Keinika Carlton recorded the burning cross and expressed concern it might be a racial or religious act.
  • Carlton estimated the cross was about 6 feet tall.
  • The incident raised feelings of shock and sadness among witnesses, highlighting ongoing concerns about racial violence.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

AP News
Inflation likely reached 3-year high last month as Iran war spikes gas prices

Inflation likely reached 3-year high last month as Iran war spikes gas prices

June 10, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Inflation in the U.S. is expected to have reached its highest level in three years last month, mainly due to rising gas prices caused by the war in Iran. Prices increased by about 4.2% compared to a year earlier, making it harder for people to afford everyday goods and creating challenges for President Trump’s administration.

Key Facts

  • Inflation likely rose 4.2% in May compared to the previous year, up from 3.8% in April.
  • Monthly prices probably increased by 0.5% in May.
  • Rising gas prices are linked to the Iran war, which affected global oil supply by blocking the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Gasoline prices rose from around $4.04 per gallon in mid-April to $4.49 in mid-May but have since dropped to about $4.16.
  • Inflation had started to slow down before President Trump imposed tariffs in April 2025, which raised the cost of many goods.
  • Core inflation, which excludes food and energy prices, is expected to have risen 0.3% in May and stands at an annual rate above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target.
  • Some prices, like dental care and car repairs, remain high even though wages are only growing slowly.
  • Higher diesel fuel prices have increased shipping costs, causing companies to add extra fees.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

AP News
Bill Gates is set to testify in congressional panel’s Jeffrey Epstein investigation

Bill Gates is set to testify in congressional panel’s Jeffrey Epstein investigation

June 10, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Bill Gates will testify before a congressional committee investigating Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal activities. The committee is reviewing Gates’ past interactions with Epstein, focusing on Philanthropy discussions, but Gates denies any wrongdoing.

Key Facts

  • Bill Gates will appear before the House Oversight Committee about Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Epstein was accused of sex trafficking minors and died in 2019 while awaiting trial.
  • Gates’ meetings with Epstein occurred from 2011 to 2014, after Epstein’s 2008 guilty plea.
  • Gates said he only met Epstein to talk about charity work and called their relationship a mistake.
  • The Gates Foundation confirmed some staff met Epstein but never worked with him on projects or gave him money.
  • An external review is underway at the Gates Foundation to examine past contacts with Epstein.
  • Former President Bill Clinton also testified for over six hours about his ties to Epstein.
  • Democrats want President Donald Trump to testify, but Republicans say they have no evidence of wrongdoing by Trump.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

AP News
Solar power hits new milestones in the US even as Trump boosts coal over clean energy

Solar power hits new milestones in the US even as Trump boosts coal over clean energy

June 10, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Solar power in the United States has reached new levels, producing more electricity than coal for the first time in May 2026. This growth happens even as President Donald Trump supports coal by investing nearly $700 million to boost coal power plants and coal exports.

Key Facts

  • In May 2026, solar power generated 12.8% of U.S. electricity, surpassing coal’s 12.2% share.
  • Solar power became the third-largest electricity source in the U.S., after natural gas and nuclear energy.
  • Coal electricity output hit a record low in April 2026 and only slightly increased in May.
  • Electricity demand in the U.S. is rising due to growth in artificial intelligence, manufacturing, and electric transportation.
  • President Trump announced a plan to spend nearly $700 million to support the coal industry.
  • Despite federal support for coal, solar power continues to grow as investors seek profitable energy sources.
  • Wind and solar combined have surpassed coal generation before, with wind sometimes generating more power during windy months.
  • Globally, renewable energy is expected to provide about 45% of electricity by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

AP News
Platner wins Maine Democratic Senate primary, vows to oust Collins

Platner wins Maine Democratic Senate primary, vows to oust Collins

June 10, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Graham Platner won the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate in Maine and will challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins in the general election. Despite past controversies, Platner pledged to earn voters’ trust and focus on issues like cost of living and healthcare, while Collins emphasized her experience and work for Maine communities.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a U.S. Army veteran and oyster farmer.
  • He won the Maine Democratic Senate primary on Tuesday.
  • Platner faces Republican Senator Susan Collins in the November election.
  • Platner’s campaign dealt with controversies including past explicit messages, allegations of intimidation, and offensive online posts.
  • Platner apologized for past comments and explained some were linked to mental health struggles.
  • Collins is the longest-serving senator from New England and chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee.
  • Platner focuses his campaign on affordability, healthcare, and housing, with early support from Senator Bernie Sanders.
  • Maine uses ranked-choice voting for some races, with other Democratic nominations still being decided.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
'Uni marking boycott could render my hard work worthless'

'Uni marking boycott could render my hard work worthless'

June 10, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Students at the University of Nottingham are worried that a staff boycott of grading will harm their final degree results. The university plans to use earlier grades to estimate final marks, which some students say does not show their recent hard work.

Key Facts

  • University staff have begun a marking boycott to protest possible job cuts affecting about 2,700 employees.
  • The boycott means some students’ final grades may be estimated from earlier year results instead of fully marked final-year work.
  • Abigail Maguire, a student, is concerned her high final-year marks won't count, making her earlier lower grades more important.
  • Students can choose to delay accepting estimated grades to wait for marking, but this could delay graduation.
  • The university says it has processes to support students with personal difficulties and to ensure fair grading.
  • Students unhappy with results can appeal and request an independent review.
  • The university’s contingency plan uses actual marks first, then marks from completed work, and as a last resort, derived marks from overall performance.
  • The uncertainty around grading is stressful for students worried about future job offers or postgraduate plans.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC Top Stories
Trump notches win in Nevada GOP House primary for Amodei’s seat

Trump notches win in Nevada GOP House primary for Amodei’s seat

June 10, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Retired Lt. Col. David Flippo, who has President Trump's endorsement, is expected to win the Republican primary in Nevada's 2nd Congressional District. This district's current representative, Mark Amodei, is retiring after 15 years in the seat.

Key Facts

  • David Flippo is a retired lieutenant colonel.
  • President Donald Trump endorsed David Flippo in the primary race.
  • Flippo is projected to win the Republican primary in Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District.
  • The seat is currently held by Mark Amodei.
  • Mark Amodei is retiring after serving 15 years.
  • The 2nd Congressional District is Nevada’s only Republican-held seat in Congress.
  • The primary election took place on a Tuesday.
  • Decision Desk HQ reported these election projections.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The Hill
Bill Gates to testify in congressional panel's Jeffrey Epstein investigation

Bill Gates to testify in congressional panel's Jeffrey Epstein investigation

June 10, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Bill Gates will testify to a congressional panel investigating Jeffrey Epstein, becoming the latest high-profile figure connected to Epstein to do so. The House Oversight Committee is examining documents that show Gates had a professional relationship with Epstein from 2011 to 2014, mainly about philanthropy, but Gates denies any wrongdoing.

Key Facts

  • Bill Gates is scheduled to appear before a House Oversight Committee panel investigating Jeffrey Epstein.
  • The investigation looks into connections between Epstein and powerful individuals in tech, finance, and politics.
  • Documents show Gates and Epstein met multiple times and communicated about charitable projects.
  • Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008 for soliciting a minor and was later indicted in 2019 for sex trafficking of minors.
  • Epstein died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial.
  • Gates has denied knowledge of Epstein’s crimes and said his association with Epstein was a mistake.
  • The Gates Foundation said a few employees met Epstein but never created a fund or paid him.
  • Other prominent figures like former President Bill Clinton have also testified or been questioned about their ties to Epstein.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

ABC News
Passersby left shocked after burning cross spotted in Grant Park

Passersby left shocked after burning cross spotted in Grant Park

June 10, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

A burning cross was seen in Chicago’s Grant Park, drawing concern from people who witnessed it. Police and firefighters responded to the scene, and authorities are investigating the incident and its motive.

Key Facts

  • A burning cross was spotted in Grant Park, Chicago, on a Tuesday afternoon.
  • The fire department put out the flames around 2:30 p.m. after the cross and a nearby tree were set on fire.
  • Police spent about three hours investigating but have not released many details or confirmed if anyone was arrested.
  • Passersby expressed shock and sadness, noting the cross burning’s historical connection to racism and intimidation.
  • It is unclear if the incident was racially motivated or related to another cause.
  • The fire did not spread beyond the cross and the tree, avoiding further damage or safety risks.
  • Witnesses said they did not see who started the fire but were disturbed by its presence in a public place.
  • Authorities continue to work on understanding why the cross was burned in Grant Park.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

CBS News
Mace endorses Wilson after losing South Carolina gubernatorial bid

Mace endorses Wilson after losing South Carolina gubernatorial bid

June 10, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Rep. Nancy Mace from South Carolina has endorsed Attorney General Alan Wilson for governor after losing in the state's Republican primary. She said she supports Wilson because she wants a governor who focuses on law and order.

Key Facts

  • Nancy Mace is a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives from South Carolina.
  • Alan Wilson is the Attorney General of South Carolina and a Republican candidate for governor.
  • Mace lost in the initial South Carolina GOP primary for governor.
  • After the primary, Mace publicly endorsed Wilson for governor.
  • Mace described Wilson as a candidate who supports law and order.
  • The endorsement was given shortly after polls closed on the primary election day.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The Hill
Aaron Ford’s Chances of Beating GOP Governor Joe Lombardo to Flip Nevada

Aaron Ford’s Chances of Beating GOP Governor Joe Lombardo to Flip Nevada

June 10, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Democratic Attorney General Aaron Ford won Nevada’s Democratic primary and will run against Republican Governor Joe Lombardo in the November election. The race is expected to be close, with polls showing nearly even support for both candidates in this important battleground state.

Key Facts

  • Aaron Ford won the Democratic primary with about 66% of the vote.
  • Joe Lombardo won the Republican primary with over 91% of the vote.
  • Nevada supported President Donald Trump by about 3 points in the 2024 election.
  • The Cook Political Report calls the Nevada governor race a “toss up.”
  • Ford would be Nevada’s first Black governor if he wins.
  • Polls show Lombardo and Ford nearly tied, each with around 40% support.
  • Ford has stronger support among Hispanics and women.
  • Governor Lombardo is somewhat more well-known and has a higher favorability rating.
  • Former Vice President Kamala Harris endorsed Aaron Ford.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Newsweek
Platner sails through primary amid controversy: 5 takeaways from Tuesday’s elections

Platner sails through primary amid controversy: 5 takeaways from Tuesday’s elections

June 10, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Graham Platner won the Democratic primary in Maine to challenge Senator Susan Collins in the upcoming Senate race. His campaign faced problems after reports about a sexting scandal and accusations of bad behavior from former girlfriends.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a progressive oyster farmer.
  • He won the Democratic primary in Maine on Tuesday.
  • His win sets up a Senate race against Republican Senator Susan Collins.
  • Platner was expected to win before the race started.
  • His campaign was hurt by news of a sexting scandal.
  • Some ex-girlfriends accused him of toxic behavior.
  • Despite these issues, Platner won the primary easily.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The Hill
Carriage Horse Dying Suddenly in Central Park Puts Pressure on Mamdani

Carriage Horse Dying Suddenly in Central Park Puts Pressure on Mamdani

June 10, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A carriage horse named Deniz died suddenly in Central Park while still attached to the carriage, raising calls for New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to ban horse-drawn carriages in the city. Though Mamdani supports ending carriage rides, he says the City Council must pass the law, and a past proposal to ban carriages was defeated.

Key Facts

  • Deniz, a 16-year-old carriage horse, collapsed and died in Central Park on Tuesday evening.
  • Bystanders tried to free Deniz from the carriage as he lay on his side.
  • A heat advisory was in effect in New York City at the time of Deniz’s death.
  • The exact cause of Deniz's death is unknown; a necropsy (animal autopsy) will be performed.
  • Mayor Zohran Mamdani supports removing horse carriages but says only the City Council can pass a ban.
  • Ryder's Law, a 2022 proposal to ban horse carriages and replace them with electric carriages, was rejected by the City Council.
  • Animal rights activists and some public figures have called for immediate action to end carriage horse rides due to concerns about animal welfare.
  • The New York City Police Department’s veterinarian unit had inspected Deniz earlier in the year and deemed him fit for work.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Newsweek
Platner's big night: 5 takeaways from Tuesday's primaries

Platner's big night: 5 takeaways from Tuesday's primaries

June 10, 2026 • Axios

Summary

Maine Democrats chose Graham Platner to run for Senate against Republican Senator Susan Collins in November. Despite personal scandals, Platner won easily in the primary, signaling a tough and expensive race ahead. Meanwhile, former President Trump’s pick advanced in South Carolina’s governor race.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner, a progressive Democrat, won the Maine Senate primary with about 72% of the vote.
  • Platner has faced scandals including a Nazi-linked tattoo and sending inappropriate texts, but these did not hurt his primary chances.
  • Platner will challenge Senator Susan Collins, a five-term Republican incumbent, in the November general election.
  • Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer initially supported another candidate but later backed Platner after his win.
  • Platner’s victory reflects a split in the Democratic Party between progressives and moderates.
  • Republicans, led by the party establishment and President Trump, are preparing strong attacks against Platner.
  • In South Carolina, President Trump’s endorsed candidate for governor, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, advanced to a runoff, while Rep. Nancy Mace placed fifth.
  • The Maine race is seen as critical for control of the U.S. Senate and could become very contentious and costly.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Axios
Nevada GOP Gov. Lombardo projected to face Democrat Ford in highly competitive race

Nevada GOP Gov. Lombardo projected to face Democrat Ford in highly competitive race

June 10, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, a Republican, and Attorney General Aaron Ford, a Democrat, won their parties’ primaries and will compete in the November governor’s race. The election is expected to be very close and will focus on issues including the economy and reactions to President Trump’s policies.

Key Facts

  • Aaron Ford, Nevada’s Attorney General and a Democrat, won his party’s primary.
  • Joe Lombardo, the current Republican governor, won his party’s primary.
  • The November race is considered highly competitive and is rated a toss-up by political analysts.
  • Tourism, a major part of Nevada’s economy, has declined sharply, hurting jobs in the state.
  • Ford has challenged President Trump’s policies by joining over 40 lawsuits against the Trump administration.
  • The election is seen as a referendum on President Trump’s influence in Nevada.
  • Nevada has generally voted Democrat in recent presidential elections but voted for President Trump in 2024.
  • Lombardo expressed concern about his reelection and the future of Nevada.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

CBS News
Lombardo, Ford face off in high-stakes Nevada governor’s race

Lombardo, Ford face off in high-stakes Nevada governor’s race

June 10, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, a Republican, won his party’s primary and is expected to run against Democratic State Attorney General Aaron Ford in the upcoming governor’s race. Lombardo is seeking a second term as Nevada’s top official, but the race is expected to be competitive.

Key Facts

  • Joe Lombardo is the current governor of Nevada.
  • He is a member of the Republican Party.
  • Lombardo won the Republican primary election.
  • Aaron Ford is the Democratic candidate and currently Nevada’s Attorney General.
  • The race is for governor of Nevada, also known as the Silver State.
  • Lombardo is running for a second term as governor.
  • Experts expect the election to be closely contested.
  • The primary election took place recently on a Tuesday.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The Hill