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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Inside the CDC turmoil as RFK Jr. eyes sweeping vaccine policy changes

Inside the CDC turmoil as RFK Jr. eyes sweeping vaccine policy changes

August 31, 2025
The CDC has faced major changes in the past six months, losing a large part of its budget and many employees. This comes as Health Secretary Kennedy plans to make major changes to vaccine policies. The recent removal of the CDC's new director, Susan Monarez, has led to more resignations.

Key Facts:

  • The CDC lost nearly half of its budget in six months.
  • Thousands of CDC employees have left.
  • Health Secretary Kennedy is working on changing vaccine policies.
  • Susan Monarez, the newly appointed CDC director, was removed by the White House.
  • Several CDC leaders quit following Monarez's removal.
  • The situation is part of a larger political struggle involving the CDC.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

A group of unhoused people fight for a tiny plot of land and a radical idea

August 31, 2025
A group of homeless people in Oakland, California, are trying to get a small piece of land from the city. They want to use it to improve their living situation.

Key Facts:

  • The story is about homeless people in Oakland, California.
  • They aim to get a small plot of land from the city.
  • The group is featured in a podcast called "A Tiny Plot."
  • KQED's Snap Judgment team discusses this situation.
  • The goal is to create a better living environment for themselves.

Source Information

NPR National
Rudy Giuliani hospitalized with broken vertebra after car accident, spokesperson says

Rudy Giuliani hospitalized with broken vertebra after car accident, spokesperson says

August 31, 2025
Rudy Giuliani, former mayor of New York City, was hospitalized with a broken vertebra after a car accident in New Hampshire. His car was hit from behind at high speed, and he suffered multiple injuries but is recovering well. The accident was not thought to be a targeted attack.

Key Facts:

  • Rudy Giuliani was involved in a car accident on a highway in New Hampshire.
  • Giuliani, 81, was hit from behind at high speed.
  • He suffered a fractured thoracic vertebra, lacerations, contusions, and injuries to his arm and leg.
  • The accident was not believed to be intentional.
  • Giuliani's medical team is happy with his recovery progress.
  • Before the accident, he helped a woman involved in a domestic violence situation and called 911.
  • Giuliani is known for his role as the mayor during the 9/11 attacks and his involvement in challenging the 2020 election results.
  • He has faced legal issues, including being indicted in Georgia and Arizona, and ordered to pay $148 million to two election workers for defamation.

Source Information

NPR Home
Rudy Giuliani hospitalized with broken vertebrae after car accident, spokesperson says

Rudy Giuliani hospitalized with broken vertebrae after car accident, spokesperson says

August 31, 2025
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani was injured in a car accident in New Hampshire and is now in the hospital with a broken back. He helped a woman involved in a domestic violence situation before the crash happened. Giuliani has had legal issues related to his actions during the 2020 election.

Key Facts:

  • Rudy Giuliani was in a car accident in New Hampshire.
  • He suffered a broken vertebra, cuts, bruises, and injuries to his arm and leg.
  • The accident involved his car being hit from behind at high speed.
  • His spokesperson says the incident was not a targeted attack.
  • Giuliani had assisted a woman involved in domestic violence just before the accident.
  • He became well-known after the 9/11 attacks and remained active in U.S. politics.
  • Giuliani faced legal issues for trying to challenge the 2020 election results.
  • He was ordered to pay $148 million for defamation in a separate case involving Georgia election workers.

Source Information

NPR Home
Noem: More cities could see federal law enforcement, even in red states

Noem: More cities could see federal law enforcement, even in red states

August 31, 2025
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that federal law enforcement might be sent to cities with high crime rates, even in states led by Republicans. This statement comes after President Trump's administration has already sent federal officers to cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., leading to some controversy. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker criticized this move, especially concerning federal actions in Chicago, while DHS insists it's necessary for public safety.

Key Facts:

  • Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Secretary, spoke about possibly sending federal law enforcement to more cities with high crime rates.
  • Federal action has already taken place in cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.
  • DHS plans to add more resources to immigration enforcement in Illinois.
  • Governor JB Pritzker criticized the federal involvement in Chicago.
  • Pritzker described DHS actions as causing unnecessary disruption and called them "anti-American."
  • Noem insisted that federal law enforcement helps to remove dangerous criminals from cities.
  • The Trump administration's use of federal agents has sparked backlash from some local leaders.

Source Information

Axios
Judge temporarily blocks Trump administration’s deportation flights for Guatemalan children

Judge temporarily blocks Trump administration’s deportation flights for Guatemalan children

August 31, 2025
A federal judge has stopped deportation flights of unaccompanied Guatemalan children from the U.S. back to Guatemala. The decision came after concerns that these deportations did not follow legal processes and could endanger the children. Legal proceedings will continue to determine the final outcome.

Key Facts:

  • A federal judge temporarily blocked U.S. deportation flights of Guatemalan children.
  • The decision affects children who arrived in the U.S. without parents or guardians.
  • The ruling stops the deportations while legal challenges are addressed.
  • The government claims the children are being returned to family, but lawyers argue proper legal steps were not followed.
  • The case originated in Washington, with similar legal actions in other states.
  • Some children reportedly faced threats or neglect in Guatemala.
  • Families in Guatemala gathered at a local air base anticipating the return of their relatives.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
How elites destroyed the Democratic Party in the US and fuelled populism

How elites destroyed the Democratic Party in the US and fuelled populism

August 31, 2025
The article discusses how the Democratic Party in the United States is losing support due to perceptions of elitism. Author Joan Williams suggests that the party needs to reconnect with everyday people to prevent losing more voters to populist movements.

Key Facts:

  • The Democratic Party in the U.S. is experiencing low popularity levels.
  • Joan Williams is the author of "Outclassed: How the Left Lost the Working Class and How to Win Them Back."
  • Williams is associated with the Equality Action Center at the University of California, San Francisco.
  • Williams argues that the Democratic Party is seen as elitist.
  • She believes that failing to connect with people could cause more voters to turn to populists.
  • The discussion took place with host Steve Clemons.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

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Can RFK Jr. take COVID vaccines off the market? Here’s what vaccine law experts say

Can RFK Jr. take COVID vaccines off the market? Here’s what vaccine law experts say

August 31, 2025
The article discusses whether Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has the authority to remove COVID-19 vaccines from the U.S. market. Vaccine law experts say that while Kennedy has voiced opposition to vaccines, he cannot unilaterally ban them. The process to remove approved vaccines involves the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and could face legal challenges.

Key Facts:

  • Reports suggested Trump administration officials might remove COVID-19 vaccines from the market, but these claims are speculative.
  • Dr. Aseem Malhotra made statements about the vaccines, but he is not a U.S. government official.
  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly criticized vaccines, calling them dangerous.
  • Kennedy stated in 2024 he does not intend to ban vaccines if they help people.
  • To remove a vaccine, the FDA must revoke its license, which involves a formal process.
  • The FDA has approved three COVID-19 vaccines for use within certain groups.
  • Legal and procedural steps are necessary to revoke vaccine approvals, which involve demonstrating significant safety issues.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Chicago's mayor pushes back as Trump administration readies immigration crackdown

Chicago's mayor pushes back as Trump administration readies immigration crackdown

August 31, 2025
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has signed an order to limit the city's police from working with federal immigration agents. This move opposes the Trump administration's plans to increase immigration enforcement in Chicago, including potentially sending federal law enforcement or military forces into the city.

Key Facts:

  • Chicago's Mayor, Brandon Johnson, limited cooperation between city police and federal immigration agents.
  • The executive order stops Chicago police from assisting federal officers with civil immigration enforcement.
  • The Trump administration suggested increasing federal forces in Chicago to control immigration and crime.
  • President Trump criticized Illinois Governor JB Pritzker on social media for his stance against federal intervention.
  • Governor Pritzker stated that using the military in Chicago is like an attack on Americans and could affect elections.
  • The Department of Homeland Security plans to add more resources to immigration operations in Chicago.
  • Chicago police are required to wear official uniforms under Mayor Johnson's order.

Source Information

NPR Home
Chicago Mayor Johnson defies Trump’s federal immigration enforcement plan for the city

Chicago Mayor Johnson defies Trump’s federal immigration enforcement plan for the city

August 31, 2025
Chicago's mayor, Brandon Johnson, has decided not to help the federal government's plan to send officers to the city for immigration enforcement. An executive order states that Chicago police will not assist with tasks like traffic stops related to immigration. The federal operation could start soon and last for about a month.

Key Facts:

  • Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an order to stop Chicago police from assisting federal immigration enforcement.
  • Chicago departments were directed to protect residents' constitutional rights amid possible federal action.
  • The operation to increase federal officers in Chicago could begin by September 5 and last about 30 days.
  • Chicago police are barred from wearing face coverings that hide their identities, a practice adopted by some federal agents.
  • Federal efforts will focus on immigration rather than general crime control.
  • Chicago has a significant immigrant community and often opposes federal immigration policies.
  • The mayor argues that federal actions seek to retaliate against Democratic-led cities.
  • Federal officials say the plan is part of a broader strategy to enhance law enforcement in major cities.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
RFK Jr. and MAHA fuel America's battle with food

RFK Jr. and MAHA fuel America's battle with food

August 31, 2025
The "Make America Healthy Again" (MAHA) movement led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is focusing on changing America's food supply. The movement is gaining attention for its push toward healthier eating but faces backlash due to Kennedy's controversial vaccine views. There is significant public support for changes like better food labeling and inspections, despite conflicts within public health leadership.

Key Facts:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s MAHA movement is pushing for changes in America’s food and health systems.
  • Many Americans consume more than half of their calories from ultra-processed foods such as hamburgers and sugary drinks.
  • The consumption of ultra-processed foods has been decreasing in recent years across all age groups.
  • The movement is receiving support across political lines, with both Republicans and progressives questioning large food companies.
  • New food policies are being introduced, including the potential ban on artificial food dyes.
  • There is a general push for improved food safety inspections and clearer labeling.
  • Kennedy's anti-vaccine stance is causing controversy and protests within the public health community.
  • The Trump administration supports MAHA but is cutting funding for medical research.

Source Information

Axios
RFK Jr. splinters Americans over vaccines and food regulation

RFK Jr. splinters Americans over vaccines and food regulation

August 31, 2025
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has support for increasing food safety regulations, but there is a big political divide over childhood vaccines. Polls show many Americans agree with Kennedy’s ideas on food, but his stance on vaccines is causing disagreements and some confusion in federal agencies.

Key Facts:

  • 87% of respondents in a survey believe the government should do more to ensure food safety.
  • 90% of people think it should be easier to understand food safety guidelines.
  • 72% of independent voters and 82% of Republicans think American kids take too many prescription medications.
  • 54% of Democrats agree that children take too many prescription medications.
  • 93% of Democratic-leaning voters see childhood vaccinations as very important, compared to 52% of Republican-leaning voters.
  • More Americans disapprove than approve of Kennedy's work as health secretary, with 43% disapproving and 36% approving.
  • Kennedy is viewed more positively than some other officials, including the former President, according to polls.
  • About half of Republicans and Democrats have a favorable opinion of the Department of Health and Human Services.

Source Information

Axios
How RFK Jr. and MAHA flipped the script on big business

How RFK Jr. and MAHA flipped the script on big business

August 31, 2025
The MAHA movement is influencing U.S. politics by pushing a Republican administration to address food supply issues, which affects relationships with agriculture interests. This shift has caused companies to promise changes like removing artificial dyes, reflecting concerns over potential regulations. Important political figures are navigating this balance as midterm elections approach.

Key Facts:

  • The MAHA movement is putting pressure on the Republican administration to choose between public health and agriculture business interests.
  • A draft report from the Make America Healthy Again Commission upset some supporters by not calling for new pesticide rules.
  • The GOP sees value in opposing big food businesses to align with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s grassroots supporters.
  • The administration wants to eliminate synthetic food dyes and restrict ultra-processed foods.
  • Companies like Kraft Heinz and Kellogg pledged to remove artificial dyes by 2027.
  • The MAHA movement is a topic in the earnings calls of many Fortune 500 companies.
  • Agriculture businesses, major GOP donors, prefer minimal regulation and are advocating to maintain that.
  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plans to campaign on these issues before the midterm elections.

Source Information

Axios

Some in Colorado Springs remember James Dobson for his anti-gay rights agenda

August 31, 2025
Some people in Colorado Springs remember James Dobson for promoting ideas against gay rights. Dobson, who passed away on August 21, used his media and political influence to push these views.

Key Facts:

  • James Dobson died on August 21.
  • He was known for his influence in media and politics.
  • Dobson supported an evangelical viewpoint.
  • He actively opposed gay rights.
  • The article focuses on how the LGBTQ community in Colorado Springs remembers him.

Source Information

NPR National
Trump to order voter ID for every vote, ‘no exceptions’

Trump to order voter ID for every vote, ‘no exceptions’

August 31, 2025
President Donald Trump plans to sign an executive order that would require all voters to show identification when voting. He also wants to limit mail-in voting to people who are very ill or serving in the military far away. These plans are part of his efforts to change the voting system in the United States.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump announced an executive order for mandatory voter ID for every vote.
  • Trump posted the announcement on the Truth Social platform.
  • The plan includes limiting mail-in voting to the very ill and distant military personnel.
  • Trump aims to change the US voting system amid his claims of fraud in the 2020 election.
  • He has criticized electronic voting machines and wants to switch to paper ballots.
  • A judge previously blocked parts of Trump's executive orders concerning voter requirements.
  • Trump has pledged to end mail-in voting and electronic voting machines before the 2026 elections.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Can young Americans still have a better life than their parents? We want to know

Can young Americans still have a better life than their parents? We want to know

August 31, 2025
Young Americans in Generation Z and millennials face challenges like finding jobs and buying homes. These difficulties are making them question if they can have a better life than their parents. Studies show they are worried about financial issues and how these affect their future decisions.

Key Facts:

  • Young Americans make up the largest share of the workforce.
  • Many young people face financial uncertainty due to past economic issues like the early 2000s recession and the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • A Marist poll shows 70% of Gen Z and nearly 60% of millennials find it hard to get jobs now.
  • Housing prices have increased more than wages in the past 20 years.
  • The median age of first-time homebuyers has risen from 28 in 1991 to 38 in recent years.
  • Young generations are more educated than previous ones but less confident in achieving the American dream.
  • NPR is seeking input from people under 40 about how these financial issues affect their lives and political views.

Source Information

NPR Home
Trump administration cancels $679 million for offshore wind projects at ports

Trump administration cancels $679 million for offshore wind projects at ports

August 31, 2025
The Trump administration has decided to cancel $679 million in federal assistance for ports that were set to become centers for the offshore wind industry. This move affects 12 port projects across the U.S., disrupting plans to support the country's developing wind power sector.

Key Facts:

  • The Trump administration canceled $679 million in funding for offshore wind projects at U.S. ports.
  • The funds were intended to help ports become hubs for the offshore wind industry.
  • Offshore wind turbines are much larger than land ones and require significant port infrastructure.
  • 12 port projects from California to Virginia were affected by this decision.
  • U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the funding could be redirected for other port upgrades.
  • The Trump administration has been critical of wind power, citing costs and environmental concerns.
  • Ports like Humboldt Bay in California viewed the funding as a major economic opportunity.
  • The cancellation disrupts plans for job creation and infrastructure development in affected regions.

Source Information

NPR Home
Life inside notorious 'Alligator Alcatraz' in its final days

Life inside notorious 'Alligator Alcatraz' in its final days

August 30, 2025
A temporary immigration detention center in Florida, called "Alligator Alcatraz," is closing soon. It became well-known as a part of former President Donald Trump’s immigration policy. A judge ordered its shutdown, and the process to close it is in progress.

Key Facts:

  • "Alligator Alcatraz" is a nickname for the South Florida Detention Facility.
  • The center is located in the Florida Everglades, known for its alligators.
  • It was built very quickly in June to hold up to 3,000 people but never reached full capacity.
  • The facility became controversial and sparked protests and public attention.
  • A judge ordered its shutdown, which is happening now, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
  • Michael Borrego Fernandez, an inmate there, reported medical issues and is part of a lawsuit about poor access to lawyers.
  • There were conflicting opinions on the facility’s conditions; some saw it as clean, while others described it as unsanitary.

Source Information

BBC World
Chicago mayor signs order to resist potential Trump crackdown

Chicago mayor signs order to resist potential Trump crackdown

August 30, 2025
The mayor of Chicago has signed an order to counter a potential immigration enforcement operation threatened by the Trump administration. The order outlines how city agencies should respond and emphasizes protecting residents' rights. This is part of a disagreement between the city's officials and the White House over immigration and crime.

Key Facts:

  • Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an order to resist a possible federal immigration crackdown.
  • The order is in response to threats by the Trump administration to deploy federal troops to the city.
  • The order includes guidelines for city agencies on how to handle immigration enforcement actions.
  • There is a conflict between Chicago officials and the White House over crime and immigration.
  • The order asserts that law enforcement officers must wear body cameras and have identifying information visible.
  • Over 20% of Chicago's residents are immigrants, with many from Latin American countries.
  • Trump's administration has described Chicago as facing a crime emergency.
  • Illinois officials have criticized Trump's threats as an abuse of power.

Source Information

BBC US
Musicians show support for longtime Utah violinist detained by ICE

Musicians show support for longtime Utah violinist detained by ICE

August 30, 2025
Longtime Utah violinist Donggin Shin, known as John, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Colorado. The music community is showing support for him after his arrest due to overstaying his visa and a 2019 DUI conviction. Shin's wife started a GoFundMe to help with legal fees, and musicians are protesting his detention.

Key Facts:

  • Donggin Shin, a violinist, was detained by ICE in Colorado on August 18, 2025.
  • He overstayed his visa, and was previously convicted of a DUI in 2019.
  • Shin is being held at the Denver Contract Detention Facility in Aurora, Colorado.
  • Musicians are protesting his detention by performing at the Utah State Capitol.
  • Shin has been part of the Utah Symphony and other music groups.
  • His wife, DaNae Shin, started a GoFundMe page that raised over $72,000 for legal expenses.
  • Shin originally came from South Korea and entered the U.S. on a tourist visa in 1998.
  • He was later part of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

Source Information

NPR News