July 13, 2025

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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

WATCH LIVE: Trump holds news conference after Supreme Court rules for limiting nationwide injunctions

WATCH LIVE: Trump holds news conference after Supreme Court rules for limiting nationwide injunctions

The U.S. Supreme Court decided that judges cannot issue nationwide injunctions, but they did not clarify how this affects President Trump's rules on birthright citizenship. The court also plans to announce outcomes on several important cases related to Trump's policies.

Key Facts:

  • The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that individual judges do not have the power to issue nationwide injunctions.
  • The decision did not specify what happens to President Trump's birthright citizenship rules.
  • President Trump is expected to speak about this issue later today.
  • The Supreme Court will release decisions on several remaining cases before summer, including emergency appeals related to Trump's policies.
  • These emergencies include cases on birthright citizenship and a Texas law about online age verification.
  • Other cases involve the firing of nearly 1,400 Education Department workers and government job cuts related to DOGE.
  • Decisions on emergency cases are issued quickly and usually without detailed explanations from the justices.

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Supreme Court sides with Texas' age verification law for porn sites

Supreme Court sides with Texas' age verification law for porn sites

The U.S. Supreme Court decided that Texas can require age verification for users to access websites with sexually explicit content. This law aims to protect minors by ensuring people prove they are at least 18 before accessing such material. The decision was made with a 6-3 vote, despite concerns about its impact on adults' access to content.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court upheld a Texas law requiring age verification for websites with explicit content.
  • The law requires proof of age, typically through a government-issued ID, for anyone trying to access these sites.
  • The law aims to prevent minors (under 18) from accessing explicit material online.
  • The court's decision followed a 6-3 vote along ideological lines.
  • Critics argue the law is vague and could limit adults' access to constitutionally protected content.
  • Opponents claim the law does not adequately protect users' privacy or data.
  • The law exempts search engines and social media platforms from these requirements.
  • The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals previously upheld the law, stating it served the rational purpose of protecting children.

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Supreme Court rules for religious opt-outs for kids in public schools

Supreme Court rules for religious opt-outs for kids in public schools

The Supreme Court ruled that public schools must allow parents to excuse their children from classes when the lessons go against their religious beliefs. This decision came from a case concerning a Maryland school system where parents wanted to opt their children out of classes using LGBTQ storybooks.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court made a 6-3 decision to allow religious opt-outs for children in public schools.
  • The ruling affects how schools handle course material that conflicts with parents' religious beliefs.
  • The case involved the Montgomery County school system in Maryland, noted for its diverse religious population.
  • Parents sued because they wanted to opt their children out of classes with LGBTQ-related reading material.
  • Justice Samuel Alito wrote that the parents' religious freedom claims are likely valid, according to the First Amendment.
  • Justice Sonia Sotomayor, writing for the dissent, warned about the potential impact on children's exposure to diverse ideas.
  • The school board initially allowed opt-outs but found them difficult to manage, leading to their removal.
  • Some parents believe mandatory participation in such lessons violates their religious rights.

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NPR analyzes the Supreme Court decision on birthright citizenship

A Supreme Court decision on birthright citizenship is being discussed by NPR's Steve Inskeep and UVA Law School professor Amanda Frost. They talk about how this decision might impact different states.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court made a decision about birthright citizenship.
  • NPR's Steve Inskeep is discussing the decision with Amanda Frost, a professor at UVA Law School.
  • Birthright citizenship is the idea that people born in a country automatically become citizens of that country.
  • The discussion covers how this decision could affect various states.
  • The conversation is available as an audio segment from NPR.

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Supreme Court rules Maryland parents can pull their children from public school lessons that use LGBTQ storybooks

Supreme Court rules Maryland parents can pull their children from public school lessons that use LGBTQ storybooks

The Supreme Court decided that Maryland parents can remove their children from public school lessons using LGBTQ storybooks if they have religious objections. This ruling reversed previous decisions that favored the school district and means that schools likely cannot force young children to sit through these lessons if parents object due to their religious beliefs.

Key Facts:

  • The ruling involves parents in Maryland who object to LGBTQ storybooks on religious grounds.
  • The Supreme Court overturned lower court rulings that supported the Montgomery County school system.
  • The decision suggests that parents will likely win the case in the end.
  • The school district introduced books like “Prince & Knight” and “Uncle Bobby’s Wedding” in 2022 to reflect diversity.
  • Pen America noted more than 10,000 books were banned in the last school year.
  • Parents initially could opt out of such lessons, but the school board later stopped allowing this, which led to a lawsuit.
  • Sex education is the only subject in Montgomery schools where students can be excused.
  • The Supreme Court has frequently supported religious discrimination claims in recent years.

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Supreme Court upholds key Obamacare measure on preventive care

Supreme Court upholds key Obamacare measure on preventive care

The U.S. Supreme Court decided to support an important part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which helps around 150 million people get free preventive health services. The decision lets a task force keep deciding which services are free under the ACA. The ruling was 6-3, with some conservative and liberal justices agreeing.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court upheld a key part of the Affordable Care Act related to free preventive health services.
  • The decision impacts approximately 150 million people who benefit from these free health services.
  • The court's ruling was 6-3, with Chief Justice Roberts and Justices Barrett and Kavanaugh joining the liberal justices.
  • The case involved a task force that determines which preventive services are free under the ACA.
  • Two lower courts initially found the appointment of task force members unconstitutional, but the Supreme Court disagreed.
  • The decision supports continued free coverage for services like HIV prevention, cancer screenings, and immunizations.
  • The lawsuit was brought by individuals and businesses opposed to specific ACA mandates for religious reasons.
  • The court clarified that the task force members are not principal officers, meaning they can be appointed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services.

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What to know about the Supreme Court's birthright citizenship case

What to know about the Supreme Court's birthright citizenship case

The U.S. Supreme Court is deciding a case that considers whether a single federal judge can stop a presidential order from being enforced across the entire country. This case arises from former President Trump’s attempt to end birthright citizenship, which lower courts halted with nationwide injunctions. The main focus is on whether these injunctions, which have blocked parts of Trump's policies, should be allowed.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court is reviewing if a federal judge can issue nationwide injunctions to block presidential orders.
  • The case is linked to Trump’s attempt to end birthright citizenship, temporarily stopped by lower courts.
  • Nationwide injunctions are court orders that stop government actions from taking effect across the entire country.
  • There have been about 40 court injunctions filed this year against various Trump policies.
  • Some Supreme Court justices, both conservative and liberal, question the fairness of nationwide injunctions.
  • Opponents of injunctions argue they allow a single judge to block policies and encourage "forum shopping."
  • Supporters of injunctions believe they are necessary to prevent unchecked executive power and protect individuals.
  • Injunctions have been used to stop Trump’s policies before they became effective nationwide.

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Supreme Court upholds key part of Affordable Care Act’s free preventive health care requirements

Supreme Court upholds key part of Affordable Care Act’s free preventive health care requirements

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld a key part of the Affordable Care Act, preserving preventive health care coverage that affects around 150 million Americans. The decision came after a challenge claimed that the method for deciding covered services was unconstitutional, as it involved a board not approved by the Senate.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to preserve a key part of the Affordable Care Act.
  • The case involved a challenge by Christian employers about preventive health care coverage.
  • The challenge argued that the process for determining covered services was unconstitutional.
  • A volunteer board of medical experts recommends which services are covered, without Senate approval.
  • The court's decision means coverage continues for services like statins, cancer screenings, and HIV prevention medication.
  • The U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals had previously agreed with the challengers before the Supreme Court ruling.
  • The Supreme Court ruling helps maintain coverage for approximately 150 million Americans.

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Supreme Court OKs fee that subsidizes phone, internet services in schools, libraries and rural areas

Supreme Court OKs fee that subsidizes phone, internet services in schools, libraries and rural areas

The Supreme Court upheld a fee added to phone bills that funds phone and internet services for schools, libraries, and rural areas. By a 6-3 vote, the justices overturned a lower court's decision that the funding method was unconstitutional. The fee, part of the Universal Service Fund, has been used for nearly 30 years to help many Americans get online access.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court decided in a 6-3 vote to keep a fee on phone bills that helps provide internet and phone services in certain areas.
  • The Universal Service Fund collects this fee and has been in place for almost 30 years.
  • The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) gets the money from telecom companies, which pass the cost to customers.
  • A conservative group, Consumers’ Research, argued against the fee, saying it was unconstitutional.
  • The appeals court had ruled that the way the fee was implemented gave too much power to the FCC and a private administrator.
  • The Supreme Court disagreed with the appeals court and decided the fee could stay.
  • This decision comes amid discussions on limiting the power of federal agencies.
  • The case highlights how federal regulations have been supported and challenged over the years.

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Read the full Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship, limiting nationwide injunctions

Read the full Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship, limiting nationwide injunctions

The Supreme Court decided that individual judges do not have the authority to issue nationwide injunctions, which are orders that stop laws from taking effect across the whole country. However, the decision did not resolve the broader issue of whether President Trump's plan to limit birthright citizenship can be blocked nationwide.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court ruled that single judges cannot grant nationwide injunctions.
  • This decision was seen as a victory for President Trump, who opposed individual judges stopping his policies.
  • Trump proposed to deny citizenship to children born in the U.S. to people in the country illegally.
  • Birthright citizenship means anyone born on U.S. soil is a citizen, a concept protected by the 14th Amendment.
  • The U.S. is one of about 30 countries that grants citizenship based on being born in the country.
  • Trump argued that children of noncitizens are not entitled to citizenship.
  • States and rights groups have challenged this, stating it disrupts accepted understandings of citizenship.
  • Judges have consistently ruled against Trump's birthright citizenship restrictions.

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Supreme Court limits nationwide injunctions in birthright citizenship order

Supreme Court limits nationwide injunctions in birthright citizenship order

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to limit the use of universal injunctions by federal courts in a case about birthright citizenship. The decision supports the Trump administration's request to narrow these injunctions, which had blocked an executive order about citizenship for children of certain non-citizens.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court decision was 6-3, divided along ideological lines.
  • Universal injunctions stop a law or policy from being enforced anywhere in the country.
  • The case focused on an executive order by President Trump regarding birthright citizenship.
  • Trump’s order declared that children born in the U.S. to certain non-citizen parents are not automatically citizens.
  • Three federal district court judges had blocked Trump’s order with universal injunctions.
  • The Supreme Court agreed these injunctions were too broad and allowed only partial blocking.
  • The decision means federal courts need to be careful in how broadly they apply injunctions.

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Supreme Court limits judges’ power on nationwide injunctions, but fate of Trump birthright citizenship order unclear

Supreme Court limits judges’ power on nationwide injunctions, but fate of Trump birthright citizenship order unclear

The Supreme Court has put limits on the ability of judges to issue nationwide injunctions, which are court orders that stop a policy from being enforced across the entire country. It is still not clear what will happen with the order from the Trump administration about birthright citizenship.

Key Facts:

  • The Supreme Court made a decision about how much power judges have to issue nationwide injunctions.
  • Nationwide injunctions are court decisions that can stop a government policy from being applied everywhere in the U.S.
  • The ruling affects how judges can control the implementation of policies nationwide.
  • The decision leaves uncertain the future of a specific Trump administration order on birthright citizenship.
  • Birthright citizenship is the right of anyone born in the U.S. to automatically be a citizen.
  • This decision may change how policies are temporarily blocked or paused while legal challenges are considered.

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Is ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ detention centre funded by Florida hurricane money?

Is ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ detention centre funded by Florida hurricane money?

Florida plans to build a new immigration detention facility called "Alligator Alcatraz" in the Everglades. The facility will partly use funds from FEMA, causing concern among some Floridians about possible effects on hurricane relief resources.

Key Facts:

  • The new facility, "Alligator Alcatraz," will be located in the Everglades in Florida.
  • The name "Alligator Alcatraz" refers to its remote location in the swamp and echoes Alcatraz, the well-known prison.
  • The facility will use funds from FEMA's Shelter and Services Program.
  • FEMA has about $625 million available in this program for such projects.
  • The facility will be built at the old Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport.
  • Florida will use its emergency powers to construct the facility.
  • The facility is intended for people arrested on immigration charges by Florida law enforcement.
  • Some Floridians worry this project might impact funds meant for hurricane relief.

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Fact check: Is Zohran Mamdani a communist?

Fact check: Is Zohran Mamdani a communist?

Zohran Mamdani, a candidate in the New York City mayoral Democratic primary, is identified as a democratic socialist but has been mischaracterized by some as a communist. Mamdani's political platform focuses on making transportation, housing, and groceries more affordable, and he is expected to advance in the election process after a primary victory.

Key Facts:

  • Zohran Mamdani is a candidate for the Democratic primary for New York City's mayor.
  • He identifies as a democratic socialist, advocating for affordability in transportation, housing, and groceries.
  • Some have falsely labeled him a communist, including former President Donald Trump and other conservative figures.
  • Experts and academics clarify that Mamdani's policies do not align with communism, which involves full government control over the economy.
  • Mamdani's platform includes the idea of city-owned grocery stores and freezing rent for certain tenants.
  • In addition to food affordability, he proposed free bus services and child care.
  • Mamdani will compete against Curtis Sliwa and Eric Adams in the upcoming election.
  • The New York City Democratic Socialists of America support Mamdani.

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Supreme Court to decide on 6 cases today. And, new details on U.S. airstrikes on Iran

Supreme Court to decide on 6 cases today. And, new details on U.S. airstrikes on Iran

The U.S. reported on recent airstrikes targeting Iran's nuclear facilities, while Iran claims to have taken protective measures for its enriched uranium. Additionally, the Supreme Court is set to decide on significant cases, including one about birthright citizenship. The U.S. also announced funding for a food program in Gaza, which has sparked controversy due to its location in military zones.

Key Facts:

  • The U.S. carried out airstrikes on Iran's nuclear sites with B-2 aircraft, targeting three locations.
  • Despite claims of complete destruction, Iran says it protected its enriched uranium.
  • The U.S. developed a 30,000-pound bomb to reach nuclear targets deep inside mountains.
  • The Supreme Court will decide on six cases, with one focusing on birthright citizenship.
  • Trump issued an order affecting birthright citizenship, but it faced legal challenges.
  • The U.S. allocated $30 million for a Gaza food program as part of an Israel-devised plan.
  • The food distribution sites in Gaza are in military zones, leading to safety concerns.
  • Human rights groups warn countries supporting this program might face legal issues related to war crimes.

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Americans detained trying to send rice, Bibles, dollar bills to North Korea

Americans detained trying to send rice, Bibles, dollar bills to North Korea

South Korean authorities detained six Americans trying to send plastic bottles filled with rice, US dollars, and Bibles to North Korea by sea. The incident occurred on Gwanghwa Island, a restricted area near North Korea, where these actions are banned due to safety concerns and to avoid increasing tensions between the nations.

Key Facts:

  • Six US citizens were caught trying to send bottles filled with rice, US money, and Bibles to North Korea.
  • The bottles were being sent from Gwanghwa Island, a restricted area close to North Korea.
  • Authorities detained them after a military unit reported the activity to the police.
  • The area is restricted due to its proximity to North Korea, making it a high-risk zone.
  • There is an existing ban in the area on sending propaganda to North Korea.
  • South Korea’s Constitutional Court struck down a related 2020 law as limiting free speech.
  • The current government under President Lee Jae-myung is working on new laws to prevent such activities for safety reasons.
  • Talks between South and North Korea have been stalled since 2019 over nuclear discussions.

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Solar manufacturing is booming. Advocates say it could go bust without incentives

Solar manufacturing is booming. Advocates say it could go bust without incentives

The U.S. solar manufacturing industry received significant investments following the Inflation Reduction Act, aimed at promoting clean energy. However, there is concern over possible cuts to tax incentives supporting domestic solar products, which could affect jobs and the industry's growth.

Key Facts:

  • A company in Indianapolis started producing solar panels after the Inflation Reduction Act was signed, which offered tax incentives for clean energy.
  • The Solar Energy Industries Association reported tens of billions of dollars invested in U.S. solar factories since then.
  • These investments could lead to nearly 60,000 manufacturing jobs in the solar sector.
  • There are discussions in Congress about rolling back tax credits that currently encourage the use of American-made solar products.
  • Ending these incentives could hurt the U.S. effort to produce more solar energy products locally and reduce reliance on imports.
  • Since the Inflation Reduction Act, $9.1 billion has been invested in operational solar factories, and $36.7 billion in those under construction or planned.
  • U.S. factories are projected to meet most of the country's demand for solar panels this year.
  • There are concerns that ending tax credits too soon could lead to companies opting for cheaper foreign-made solar panels instead of American products.

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Several countries have privatized air traffic control. Should the U.S.?

Several countries have privatized air traffic control. Should the U.S.?

The U.S. government is discussing how to improve its air traffic control system after recent technical problems and staffing shortages. The Trump administration is considering modernizing the system instead of privatizing it. Some people argue that privatizing, like in other countries, might be beneficial, but there are differing opinions on this approach.

Key Facts:

  • The Trump administration is focusing on reforming the U.S. air traffic control system.
  • There have been recent technical outages and staffing shortages in air traffic control.
  • A midair collision near Washington, D.C. killed 67 people, highlighting safety concerns.
  • The current plan involves investing heavily in modernizing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
  • Privatization is not actively being pursued, as it could cause division among stakeholders.
  • The Modern Skies Coalition supports the modernization plan, which includes upgrading equipment and hiring more controllers.
  • Canada privatized its air traffic control in 1996, making system upgrades easier and faster.
  • Other countries, such as the UK and Australia, have air traffic control systems with various levels of government involvement.

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U.S. uninsured rates could resurge if Trump's budget bill passes

U.S. uninsured rates could resurge if Trump's budget bill passes

A proposed budget bill, backed by the Trump administration, could lead to a rise in uninsured Americans by cutting Medicaid and affecting Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage. Alton Fry, a self-employed contractor, struggles to afford cancer treatment without insurance, highlighting the financial strain on those who are not covered.

Key Facts:

  • Alton Fry, diagnosed with prostate cancer, is trying to pay for treatment without health insurance.
  • Fry's income is too high to qualify for Medicaid in Georgia but ACA plans are too costly for him.
  • Over 26 million Americans were uninsured in early 2024.
  • States that haven't expanded Medicaid have higher uninsured rates than those that have.
  • If the proposed budget passes, 10.9 million more people could lose insurance by 2034.
  • Proposed rule changes might push the number of uninsured to 16 million people.
  • The Senate parliamentarian blocked some health-related provisions in the bill.
  • The bill aims to extend tax cuts, mainly benefiting the wealthy, while targeting health coverage reductions.

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Whose lavish wedding is sparking protests this week? Find out in the quiz

Whose lavish wedding is sparking protests this week? Find out in the quiz

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez are getting married this week, and the wedding is causing some protests. NPR is inviting readers to submit questions for their weekly quiz, related to news from June 23 to July 1.

Key Facts:

  • Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez are having their wedding this week.
  • The wedding is attracting some protests.
  • NPR is hosting a weekly quiz with questions about recent news.
  • Readers can submit their own questions for the quiz.
  • Submissions for the quiz must relate to news between June 23 and July 1.
  • The deadline for submitting quiz questions is 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday, July 1.
  • Contributors whose questions are selected will be acknowledged on NPR's website.
  • The submission of questions is governed by NPR's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

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