US News

Trump ends Kamala Harris' Secret Service protections

August 29, 2025

President Trump has withdrawn Secret Service protection for former Vice President Kamala Harris. This decision affects Harris as she steps away from seeking the California governor post in 2026 and previously had extended protection due to threats faced during her tenure.

Key Facts:

President Trump has ended Kamala Harris' Secret Service protection.
Harris announced she is not running for California governor in 2026.
She previously faced death threats while in office and on the campaign trail.
Normally, former vice presidents receive six months of security after leaving office.
Harris' protection was extended beyond the standard period by former President Biden.
The protection officially ends on September 1, 2025, as per Trump's decision.

Source Information

Axios

Employers have used E-Verify for years. ICE’s arrest of a Maine police officer raises new questions

August 29, 2025

A police officer in Maine was arrested by immigration authorities, even though his status had been checked through a system called E-Verify. This has made people question how well E-Verify works to confirm if someone can legally work in the U.S.

Key Facts:

A Maine police officer was arrested by immigration authorities.
The officer's employment was verified using E-Verify.
E-Verify is an online tool that checks employee documents against government records.
It helps employers ensure employees can work legally in the U.S.
The incident has raised doubts about the accuracy and effectiveness of E-Verify.

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PBS NewsHour

Trump ends Secret Service protection for Harris

August 29, 2025

Former President Donald Trump has cancelled Secret Service protection for Kamala Harris. She was eligible for extra security as a former vice president, but this was revoked by Trump. Harris will no longer have the security agents that were previously assigned to her.

Key Facts:

Trump cancelled Secret Service protection for Kamala Harris, which had been extended under Joe Biden.
Harris was eligible for six months of security after leaving office.
Her security was originally extended for another year by Biden through an executive directive.
Trump revoked this extra security through a memo dated Thursday.
Harris is set to go on a national book tour for her memoir, "107 Days."
The security removal includes losing protection agents and proactive threat assessments.
The cost of similar private security measures could reach millions of dollars annually.
Gavin Newsom and Karen Bass have expressed their displeasure with the decision.
Trump has also removed Secret Service protection for other individuals, including Hunter and Ashley Biden, Anthony Fauci, Mike Pompeo, and John Bolton.

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BBC Top Stories

Democrats want to use home utility costs against Republicans in 2026. It won't be easy

August 29, 2025

Democrats aim to use rising home utility costs to gain an advantage over Republicans in the 2026 Congressional elections. However, turning these energy costs into political leverage is complex, with Republican policies and budget laws also playing a role.

Key Facts:

Democrats want to highlight rising utility costs as a political issue against Republicans in 2026.
Energy costs are increasing across the U.S. and are expected to continue rising.
President Trump had promised to reduce energy costs during his campaign.
A current GOP budget law is phasing out incentives for renewable energy sources.
AI data centers require a lot of energy, keeping electricity costs in the public eye.
Democrats are using ads to press Republicans on rising utility bills.
A study predicts the current budget law will lead to $130 annual increases in household energy costs by 2030.
Electricity prices and demand have risen due to various factors like digitalization and natural gas costs.

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Axios

Father of 8-year-old boy killed in Minneapolis church shooting wants him remembered for his love

August 29, 2025

Two students were killed and over a dozen children were injured during a shooting at a church in Minneapolis. The shooter, identified as Robin Westman, fired into the church but did not enter it. The incident has sparked discussions on gun violence and mental health.

Key Facts:

An 8-year-old boy named Fletcher and a 10-year-old girl named Harper were killed in the shooting.
The shooter, Robin Westman, was 23 years old and fired 116 rounds from outside the church.
Surveillance showed the shooter did not enter the building or see the children.
Fifteen children and three older parishioners were injured; one child is in critical condition.
Westman had a history of expressing hate-filled ideologies and a fascination with mass shootings.
The shooting has led to renewed discussions on gun safety and mental health issues.
Authorities are still investigating the motive and found writings from the shooter without finding more weapons.

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PBS NewsHour

In Minneapolis, a series of shootings and the grim realities of a tough summer

August 29, 2025

This summer in Minneapolis, there has been an increase in violent incidents, including several shootings at public places and schools. Authorities are working to address these events and have ordered state law enforcement to assist local police for better security in schools and churches. The incidents have caused concern and loss in the community, although some local residents emphasize that violence does not define the city.

Key Facts:

Several shootings occurred in Minneapolis, causing multiple deaths and injuries, including two children killed in a church.
A man attacked state politicians in Minneapolis suburbs, resulting in two deaths.
The shooter involved in the church incident had a history of violent thoughts and left behind writings expressing hate towards various groups.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz ordered state law enforcement to help local police monitor schools and churches for safety.
Despite crime in general declining, there is a noted increase in violence in Minneapolis this summer.
A suspect in the suburban shootings was arrested and confessed, but the motive remains unclear.
Residents express that violence does not fully represent life in Minneapolis.

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PBS NewsHour

How Trump’s newfound love for Chinese students is drawing MAGA backlash

August 29, 2025

President Donald Trump announced his intention to allow 600,000 Chinese students to study in the United States. This is a change from previous policies that restricted Chinese student visas due to security concerns. The decision has surprised some Trump supporters who were used to stricter measures against Chinese students.

Key Facts:

Trump announced on Monday that the US will allow 600,000 Chinese students into US universities.
This decision is a shift from earlier efforts by the Trump administration to limit Chinese student visas.
China’s government hopes the US will stop harassment and deportation of Chinese students.
Trump mentioned that the US benefits from having Chinese students and checks them for security reasons.
Previously, Trump administration officials talked about revoking visas of Chinese students, particularly those linked to the Chinese Communist Party or sensitive study fields.
In the past, the US State Department revoked 6,000 international student visas due to law violations and overstays.
During the 2023-2024 school year, 277,398 Chinese students were enrolled in US universities, comprising 24.5% of all international students.

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Al Jazeera

Trump blocks $4.9B in foreign aid Congress OK’d, using maneuver last seen nearly 50 years ago

August 29, 2025

President Donald Trump decided not to spend $4.9 billion in foreign aid previously approved by Congress. He used a method called a "pocket rescission" to avoid spending the funds, which hasn't been used by a president in nearly 50 years. This approach bypasses Congress by timing the request so that the money lapses unspent.

Key Facts:

Trump informed House Speaker Mike Johnson about his decision not to spend $4.9 billion in foreign aid.
A pocket rescission is when the president asks Congress to not spend funds, with the request timed so Congress cannot act within 45 days.
This is the first time since 1977 that a president used a pocket rescission.
The unspent money would have come from the State Department and USAID.
The Impoundment Control Act of 1974 allows the president to propose canceling funds approved by Congress.
The Trump administration argues this is a legal budgetary tool.
The administration previously achieved $9 billion in spending cuts with Congressional support earlier this year.
USAID's role has been significantly reduced and is now under the State Department.

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PBS NewsHour

Trump revokes Secret Service protection for former Vice President Harris after Biden had extended it

August 29, 2025

President Donald Trump has decided to end Secret Service protection for Kamala Harris, despite an earlier extension by President Joe Biden. The protection, initially set for six months, had been continued by Biden to last until July 2026 but will now end on Monday. Harris, a former vice president and potential future presidential candidate, is preparing for a book tour without this security detail.

Key Facts:

President Trump has revoked Secret Service protection for former Vice President Kamala Harris.
Typically, ex-vice presidents receive protection for six months after leaving office.
President Joe Biden had extended Harris' protection beyond the traditional six months.
Harris' security detail was set to end in July 2026 but will now terminate on Monday.
Harris is starting a book tour for her memoir, "107 Days," which includes international stops.
It is not uncommon for Secret Service protection to extend past the usual period if threats exist.
The decision to remove her protection has drawn attention due to potential security concerns.
The news was initially reported by CNN.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

20 years on, New Orleans remembers Hurricane Katrina with memorials and brass band parade

August 29, 2025

New Orleans is marking the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina with memorials and a parade. The 2005 storm caused massive damage and flooding, affecting thousands of people, especially in the city's Lower Ninth Ward. The events aim to remember those affected and highlight ongoing issues like poor infrastructure and vulnerability to climate change.

Key Facts:

Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast on August 29, 2005, as a Category 3 storm.
The storm caused an estimated $200 billion in damage, making it the costliest U.S. storm on record.
About 1,400 people died across five states due to the hurricane.
Flooding in New Orleans was worsened by the failure of the federal levee system, submerging about 80% of the city.
Events include a parade and memorials in the Lower Ninth Ward, which was severely affected by flooding.
The anniversary events also aim to draw attention to issues like gentrification and climate change risks.
The city's population decreased from nearly 500,000 before the storm to 384,000 today.
Major changes after the storm included the rebuilding of levees, privatization of schools, and demolition of public housing.

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PBS NewsHour

Witnesses describe terror and courage during the Minneapolis school shooting

August 29, 2025

A shooting took place at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, resulting in the deaths of two children and injuries to 18 others. Attendees, who were there for a school Mass, experienced fear and chaos as shots were fired through the church's windows. The local community is mourning the loss and grappling with the impact of the event.

Key Facts:

The shooting occurred during a school Mass at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis.
Two children, aged 10 and 8, were killed in the shooting.
Eighteen people were injured, including 15 children and 3 elderly adults.
The shooter fired from outside, through the church's windows, but did not enter the church.
Participants, including alumni and community members, tried to protect each other.
The community is deeply affected, as generations have attended the church and school.
The local police confirmed the nature and position of the shooter.

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NPR Home

Trump administration offers military funeral honors to Capitol rioter Ashli Babbitt

August 29, 2025

The U.S. government is offering military funeral honors for Ashli Babbitt, an Air Force veteran killed during the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. She was shot by a Capitol officer during the incident, and the decision to grant these honors comes after rejection by the previous administration.

Key Facts:

Ashli Babbitt was killed on January 6, 2021, during the Capitol riot.
She was a U.S. Air Force veteran from California.
Babbitt was shot while attempting to enter a restricted area inside the Capitol.
The U.S. government decided to offer military funeral honors to Babbitt.
A wrongful-death lawsuit settlement of nearly $5 million was reached with Babbitt's family.
The Air Force under secretary invited Babbitt's family to meet at the Pentagon.
A conservative legal group had advocated for funeral honors on behalf of Babbitt's family.
An Air Force spokesperson confirmed the review led to the decision to grant honors.

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PBS NewsHour

RFK Jr.’s deputy made CDC acting director as leadership exodus leaves agency reeling

August 29, 2025

The former director of the CDC was removed, and Jim O’Neill, a deputy at the Department of Health and Human Services, took over as acting director. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is involved in these changes, and there are concerns about his anti-vaccine stance impacting CDC policies.

Key Facts:

The White House replaced the CDC director with Jim O’Neill, who worked for the Department of Health and Human Services.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s deputy is now in charge amid concerns over promoting anti-vaccine policies.
Jim O’Neill does not have a medical background.
The CDC is expected to review vaccine recommendations soon.
Some officials, including three senior members, resigned from the CDC in protest.
The former director of the CDC, Susan Monarez, is fighting her removal.
The White House claimed Monarez was not aligned with President Donald Trump's agenda.
Two Republican senators called for congressional oversight of the situation.

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PBS NewsHour

Fed governor Cook to seek court order blocking her firing by Trump

August 29, 2025

Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook has gone to court to stop President Trump from firing her. The action is based on claims of mortgage fraud from before she was part of the Fed. The situation could affect the Federal Reserve’s independence, traditionally free from political influence.

Key Facts:

Lisa Cook is a governor on the Federal Reserve's board.
President Trump is trying to fire her over alleged mortgage fraud.
Cook was appointed by former President Biden in 2022.
No sitting president has ever fired a Fed governor.
The law says a Fed governor can only be fired for reasons like neglecting duty or wrongdoing in office.
Cook's lawyers argue the allegations do not meet the criteria for firing.
The situation may influence the Fed's independence from political pressure.
If unresolved, the case could reach the U.S. Supreme Court.

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PBS NewsHour

Fact check: Have mass shootings decreased in the US since 2022 law?

August 29, 2025

In response to a recent school shooting, Senator Chris Murphy claimed that mass shootings have decreased since the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act became law. While data indicates a decline in mass shootings, experts say it is difficult to prove the law is the direct cause due to its various components and the complexity of measuring such impacts.

Key Facts:

Senator Chris Murphy mentioned a drop in mass shootings following the 2022 gun safety law.
The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act was signed into law in June 2022.
The law included gun safety measures, mental health support, and school security resources.
The Gun Violence Archive reported mass shootings fell from 660 in 2023 to 503 in 2024.
Experts say it's challenging to link the decline directly to the 2022 law due to its various measures.
Mass shootings can be defined differently by various organizations, affecting how they are counted.
The Gun Violence Archive considers an incident a mass shooting if four or more people are injured or killed, excluding the shooter.
Studies have not definitively attributed the decrease in mass shootings to the 2022 legislation alone.

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Al Jazeera

Firefighters tackling wildfire in US arrested by immigration agents

August 29, 2025

Two firefighters in Washington State were arrested by U.S. Border Patrol agents because they were in the country illegally. They were part of a crew working to contain a wildfire on the Olympic Peninsula. This action led to a debate over immigration enforcement at emergency sites.

Key Facts:

Two firefighters were arrested for being in the U.S. illegally while working on a wildfire in Washington State.
They were hired by private firefighting contractors.
The arrest took place during efforts to control the 9,000-acre Bear Gulch Fire.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection stated they found discrepancies in firefighter rosters.
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management ended contracts with two contractor firms at the fire site.
All 42 contractor firefighter staff were escorted off federal land.
The arrests were made for illegal entry and re-entry into the U.S.
The Bear Gulch Fire started in July due to human activity and was 13% contained at the time.

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Al Jazeera

The Trump administration wants to build more roads through national forests

August 29, 2025

The Trump administration plans to build more roads in U.S. national forests by reversing the Roadless Rule, which has protected about 60 million acres since 2001. They claim this would help manage wildfires better, but some scientists argue it could lead to more fires. Environmental groups believe the change is intended to boost timber production.

Key Facts:

The Trump administration intends to remove the 2001 Roadless Rule.
The Roadless Rule covers nearly 60 million acres of forest land.
Officials say the change will help with wildfire management.
Scientists warn that roads near forests can increase wildfire risk.
A Forest Service study found more non-native plants near roads.
The Trump administration seeks a 25% increase in timber production.
Environmental groups oppose the rollback, citing logging concerns.

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NPR Home

The long recovery on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, 'ground zero' for Hurricane Katrina

August 29, 2025

Hurricane Katrina struck the Mississippi Gulf Coast 20 years ago, causing widespread destruction. The storm damaged or destroyed nearly every home in Waveland, Mississippi, and was one of the deadliest and costliest storms in the U.S. State officials had to seek military help when initial federal aid efforts failed.

Key Facts:

Hurricane Katrina hit the Mississippi Gulf Coast on August 29, 2005.
The hurricane brought winds of 120 miles per hour and a storm surge nearly 30 feet high.
Approximately 1,400 people died across the Gulf Coast region due to the storm.
In today's dollars, it is the costliest storm in U.S. history, causing around $200 billion in damages.
The town of Waveland, Mississippi, was heavily impacted, with nearly every home damaged or destroyed.
Over 60,000 structures were uninhabitable, and more than 25,000 were completely gone.
Initial federal aid efforts were inadequate, and Mississippi had to rely on military assistance.
The recovery process included a long cleanup operation that lasted a year and a half.

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NPR Home

Talking to kids about school shootings. Be truthful and follow their lead

August 29, 2025

The article discusses how parents can talk to children about school shootings in the United States. It emphasizes being honest and understanding children's questions and concerns, using guidelines from experts to help kids cope with their feelings.

Key Facts:

School shootings in the U.S. have increased significantly in recent years.
There have been 44 school shootings in the U.S. this year, according to CNN.
Since 1999, more than 400 school shootings have occurred in the U.S., based on data from The Washington Post.
Experts suggest starting conversations by asking children what they've heard about shootings.
It's essential to be honest with children to build trust, explaining that while schools are generally safe, risks exist.
A child's age, trauma history, and proximity to an event may influence their reaction.
Routine and limited media exposure can help children feel secure after a tragedy.
Resources and guidance are available from the American School Counselor Association and other organizations to aid parents and educators.

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NPR Home

New CDC head chosen after week of turmoil at the agency

August 29, 2025

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has appointed a new acting director after a week of challenges at the agency. The change in leadership comes amid difficulties within the CDC.

Key Facts:

The CDC has faced a challenging week leading to the appointment of a new acting director.
This leadership change occurred due to turmoil within the agency.
The focus is currently on stabilizing the agency's operations.
The position filled is an interim role, meaning it is temporary.
The announcement was made public in late August 2025.

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