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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

New Hampshire arts groups face double budget blow as state slashes funding

August 28, 2025
New Hampshire's state government has reduced funding for local arts organizations. This funding cut acts as a second financial challenge for these groups, following previous budget challenges.

Key Facts:

  • New Hampshire's state government is cutting funding for arts organizations.
  • The funding reduction impacts local arts groups in the state.
  • Arts organizations were already facing financial challenges before this cut.
  • The state's budget allocation for the arts is declining.
  • This situation might affect the operations and programs of arts groups in New Hampshire.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
About half of U.S. adults approve of Trump’s approach to crime, AP-NORC poll finds

About half of U.S. adults approve of Trump’s approach to crime, AP-NORC poll finds

August 28, 2025
About half of U.S. adults support Donald Trump's approach to crime, according to a poll from The AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. This approval is higher than his support for immigration policies, the economy, or dealing with the Russia-Ukraine war. The poll suggests that crime is a major concern for many Americans, which may have helped boost Trump's overall approval rating.

Key Facts:

  • A recent poll shows that 53% of U.S. adults approve of Trump's approach to handling crime.
  • Trump's crime policies have more support than his immigration, economic, and international policies.
  • Violent crime has decreased in Washington and nationwide since a spike during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Overall, 45% of Americans approve of Trump's performance as president, an increase from 40% in July.
  • Crime is a major concern for 81% of U.S. adults, making it a top news topic.
  • Approval of Trump's immigration policies has dropped, with only 43% of adults supporting it.
  • Trump's attention to crime issues increased after a government official was attacked in Washington recently.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Federal judge says Kari Lake can't fire Voice of America director

Federal judge says Kari Lake can't fire Voice of America director

August 28, 2025
A federal judge ruled that Kari Lake, a Trump administration official, cannot fire the director of Voice of America (VOA) without the backing of a congressional advisory panel. This decision highlights that Lake's attempt to remove the director was against legal requirements set by Congress.

Key Facts:

  • A federal judge in Washington, D.C. made the ruling against Kari Lake.
  • Kari Lake tried to fire the VOA director, Michael Abramowitz, but it was not legal.
  • The law requires an advisory panel's approval to fire the VOA director, which Lake did not have.
  • President Trump dismissed six out of seven panel members when he took office, and new members were not appointed.
  • The judge emphasized that the firing did not meet legal standards.
  • Under Lake, the VOA has reduced its language services significantly and laid off many employees.
  • The Trump administration plans to appeal the ruling.
  • The Justice Department referenced executive powers from Article II of the U.S. Constitution in defense of Lake's actions.

Source Information

NPR Home

In Mississippi, 20 years after Hurricane Katrina, the recovery has been long

August 28, 2025
Mississippi is still recovering from Hurricane Katrina, which hit 20 years ago, causing significant damage and loss of life. Former Governor Haley Barbour discusses the state's recovery efforts and the lessons learned from both the people's resilience and the government's response.

Key Facts:

  • Hurricane Katrina struck Mississippi and caused severe damage 20 years ago.
  • The hurricane resulted in the deaths of 238 people in Mississippi.
  • Former Governor Haley Barbour shared insights on recovery and lessons learned.
  • Recovery has been a long process for affected regions in Mississippi.
  • Discussions focus on the resilience of local communities and government actions.
  • Hurricane Katrina is considered one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history.

Source Information

NPR National
Public media stations in rural America say emergency-alert funding is in jeopardy

Public media stations in rural America say emergency-alert funding is in jeopardy

August 28, 2025
Public media stations in rural parts of the United States are facing difficulties due to issues with funding for emergency alert systems. A program meant to support these stations has hit roadblocks due to changes in government funding and administration. As a result, many stations are unable to complete necessary upgrades and are worried about continuing to support their communities during emergencies.

Key Facts:

  • Public media stations provide crucial emergency alerts, especially in rural areas where other communication channels fail.
  • KSTK, a station in Wrangell, Alaska, received up to $90,000 for improving their emergency alert system, but it's only spent half due to funding issues.
  • The Next Generation Warning System grant program was set up in 2022 to aid these stations, with Congress appropriating $136 million to it.
  • The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) is involved in distributing this funding but faced challenges due to withheld resources.
  • In 2023, Congress withdrew funding, affecting stations’ budgets for upgrading their alert systems.
  • CPB has instructed stations to stop further spending due to inconsistent reimbursement from FEMA.
  • An unresolved lawsuit involves CPB suing FEMA for withholding necessary funds.
  • FEMA posted a new funding announcement inviting applications for $40 million, but the future of the original program remains uncertain.

Source Information

NPR Home
Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook sues Trump for his attempt to fire her

Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook sues Trump for his attempt to fire her

August 28, 2025
Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook has sued former President Donald Trump, challenging his attempt to remove her from her position. Cook argues that Trump lacks the authority to fire her under the Federal Reserve Act, which only allows a governor's removal for serious misconduct. The lawsuit points to concerns about the Federal Reserve's independence from political influence.

Key Facts:

  • Lisa Cook is a Federal Reserve Governor appointed in 2022 by President Joe Biden.
  • Cook has filed a lawsuit against former President Donald Trump, contesting his attempt to remove her.
  • The Federal Reserve Act of 1913 states a president can only remove a governor "for cause," which typically means serious misconduct.
  • Trump claims Cook committed mortgage fraud before joining the Federal Reserve, which she denies.
  • No president has ever removed a Federal Reserve board member, so there is no legal precedent for this action.
  • The Federal Reserve is meant to operate independently of political branches to ensure unbiased monetary policy.
  • Cook's case may be decided by the Supreme Court, which has previously differentiated the Federal Reserve from other federal agencies.
  • The situation has raised concerns about the potential impact on the U.S. economy and the Federal Reserve’s independence.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
CDC officials escorted from headquarters as chaos engulfs agency over director’s ouster

CDC officials escorted from headquarters as chaos engulfs agency over director’s ouster

August 28, 2025
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is experiencing significant leadership changes, with the White House working to remove its newly appointed director, Susan Monarez. Her ouster, along with the resignation of three senior officials, has sparked concerns about political influence on public health policies. The reasons behind these actions have not been fully explained, and the situation has led to bipartisan calls for oversight.

Key Facts:

  • Susan Monarez, the CDC director, was removed less than a month after starting her role.
  • Three senior CDC officials, including the heads of key health departments, resigned following her removal.
  • The White House cited that Monarez was "not aligned with" Trump's agenda.
  • Monarez’s lawyers claim she resisted carrying out directives she found unscientific and reckless.
  • This leadership change occurs ahead of a critical advisory committee meeting on vaccines.
  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is pushing for anti-vaccine policies despite opposing scientific research.
  • Two Republican senators and some Democrats have expressed concern over these changes.
  • Monarez is fighting her dismissal in court, arguing only Trump can officially fire her.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour

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How an 8-year-old witness describes the Minneapolis Catholic school shooting

August 28, 2025
A shooting occurred at a Catholic school in Minneapolis, resulting in the deaths of two young students and injuries to 18 other people. The local community is trying to understand the events and reasons behind the attack.

Key Facts:

  • A shooting took place at a Catholic school in Minneapolis.
  • Two young students died in the incident.
  • 18 other people were injured during the shooting.
  • The community is trying to comprehend the situation and its causes.
  • The incident has been reported by local news outlets.

Source Information

NPR National
DHS asks military base near Chicago for immigration enforcement support

DHS asks military base near Chicago for immigration enforcement support

August 28, 2025
The Trump administration asked for support from a military base near Chicago for immigration operations. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) wants to use Naval Station Great Lakes to help with facilities and other logistical needs. City leaders in Chicago express concern and seek more communication about these plans.

Key Facts:

  • The Trump administration requested support from Naval Station Great Lakes near Chicago for immigration operations.
  • DHS asked for facilities and logistical help from this military base.
  • No official decision has been made on this request yet.
  • Chicago authorities report they haven't been contacted directly about the plans.
  • Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson oppose military involvement, saying it's unnecessary.
  • City workers are distributing know-your-rights cards to immigrant communities.
  • Former President Barack Obama expressed concern about using the military on domestic soil.
  • The Chicago Sun-Times initially reported the DHS request to use the Navy base.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Video: Echoes of Katrina - Two decades of struggle and strength

Video: Echoes of Katrina - Two decades of struggle and strength

August 28, 2025
Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast on August 29, 2005, causing major destruction, particularly in New Orleans. Two decades later, while much of the city has been rebuilt, certain areas, especially the Lower 9th Ward, continue to struggle with recovery. A video reflects on the lasting impact of the storm on the city's residents.

Key Facts:

  • Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast of the United States on August 29, 2005.
  • The storm caused extensive flooding in New Orleans by breaking levees, which are barriers built to prevent water from flooding the land.
  • About 80% of New Orleans was flooded, leading to hundreds of deaths and thousands of people being trapped.
  • Twenty years after the hurricane, New Orleans has not fully recovered in terms of population.
  • Many homes in New Orleans have been rebuilt and elevated to prepare for future hurricanes.
  • The Lower 9th Ward, a historically Black neighborhood, has faced significant challenges in regaining residents and homes.
  • The article's author is from New Orleans and frequently returns to report on recovery progress.
  • The video shares stories from New Orleanians about how Hurricane Katrina continues to affect their lives.

Source Information

NPR Home
Trump's 'Alligator Alcatraz' being emptied of immigrant detainees

Trump's 'Alligator Alcatraz' being emptied of immigrant detainees

August 28, 2025
A Florida immigrant detention center called "Alligator Alcatraz," opened during Trump's administration, is being emptied after a judge ordered it to close. The center's population has halved, with complete relocation expected within 60 days. The closure followed legal challenges related to poor conditions and environmental concerns.

Key Facts:

  • "Alligator Alcatraz" is a detention center in the Florida Everglades.
  • A federal judge ordered the facility to stop operations and relocate detainees within 60 days.
  • The number of detainees has decreased by half since the judge's order.
  • The center faced legal challenges due to poor conditions and environmental damage claims.
  • "Alligator Alcatraz" was initially built to hold up to 3,000 detainees.
  • More detention centers are being developed in other states as part of the deportation drive.
  • President Trump's budget included significant funding for expanded detention centers and immigration enforcement.

Source Information

BBC US
Former MLB player Mark Teixeira running for Congress

Former MLB player Mark Teixeira running for Congress

August 28, 2025
Former baseball player Mark Teixeira announced he is running for a congressional seat in Texas. The seat is open because the current representative, Chip Roy, is running for attorney general. Teixeira supports conservative views and is active in local Republican groups.

Key Facts:

  • Mark Teixeira is running for a congressional seat in Texas.
  • The seat became open when Rep. Chip Roy decided to run for attorney general.
  • Teixeira is a former Major League Baseball player and a World Series champion.
  • He supports the "America First" agenda and conservative principles.
  • Teixeira moved to Central Texas in 2021 and is involved with local Republican and Christian communities.
  • The district encompasses areas around Austin and San Antonio and is considered a safe Republican seat.

Source Information

Axios
Exclusive: Senate Dems launch "budget-buster" site targeting GOP costs

Exclusive: Senate Dems launch "budget-buster" site targeting GOP costs

August 28, 2025
Senate Democrats have launched a website to show rising costs tied to policies supported by President Trump and Senate Republicans. The site, GOPBudgetBuster.com, lets users see how their budgets might change due to expected increases in prices for things like health care and energy. This is part of Democrats' strategy to influence the 2026 elections by highlighting these cost concerns.

Key Facts:

  • Senate Democrats have created a website called GOPBudgetBuster.com.
  • The website targets cost increases linked to President Trump and Senate Republicans' policies.
  • It calculates potential increases in health insurance, electricity, food, and car insurance costs.
  • Democrats aim to influence the 2026 Senate elections by focusing on rising living costs.
  • The tax bill passed under Trump is linked to the expected cost increases.
  • Health insurance costs under the Affordable Care Act could rise by up to 75% next year.
  • Trump's tax bill removed incentives for wind and solar energy projects, potentially raising energy costs further.
  • Republicans argue that the tax cuts in the bill will benefit American families.

Source Information

Axios
Emmett Till family re-creates train ride from Chicago to Mississippi to mark 70th anniversary

Emmett Till family re-creates train ride from Chicago to Mississippi to mark 70th anniversary

August 28, 2025
Emmett Till's family recreated his 1955 train trip from Chicago to Mississippi to remember the 70th anniversary of his lynching, which was a significant event in the Civil Rights Movement. The commemoration includes events organized by the Emmett Till Interpretive Center. Till's murder highlighted racial injustices in the U.S., and recent activities continue to promote awareness and education about these issues.

Key Facts:

  • Emmett Till, a 14-year-old Black boy, was lynched in 1955 in Mississippi after being accused of whistling at a white woman.
  • His family recreated his historic train trip from Chicago to Mississippi to mark the 70th anniversary of his death.
  • Events were organized by the Emmett Till Interpretive Center and National Parks Conservation Association.
  • The trip included Till's cousin, Rev. Wheeler Parker Jr., the last living eyewitness to his kidnapping.
  • Till's murder case brought global attention to racial injustice in the U.S., prompting conversations about racism and inequality.
  • In 2008, Carolyn Bryant Donham reportedly recanted her accusation against Till, although this was later denied.
  • The Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act was signed into law in 2022, making lynching a federal hate crime.
  • Commemorative events include panel discussions, a theatrical performance, and a memorial service.

Source Information

Axios
What's at stake in the battle for reserve bank power

What's at stake in the battle for reserve bank power

August 28, 2025
The Federal Reserve's independence relies on its 12 reserve banks, but the Board of Governors in Washington has the power to change the structure and leadership of these banks. The Trump administration could influence the reserve banks by appointing a majority to the Board of Governors, potentially affecting the reappointment of bank presidents. This power struggle is crucial as upcoming changes in reserve bank leadership could align more closely with the president's preferences.

Key Facts:

  • The Federal Reserve has 12 reserve banks with a mix of public and private governance to spread power across the U.S.
  • The Board of Governors in Washington can change the leadership of these reserve banks.
  • The Trump administration aims to have a majority on the Board of Governors to influence reserve bank decisions.
  • Reserve bank presidents are approved every five years; a Board majority could prevent reappointments they disagree with.
  • The term for current reserve bank presidents is ending in February, making the leadership changes timely.
  • There are concerns that current reserve banks focus on Democratic issues like climate and inequality.
  • Political donations by reserve bank board members have recently favored left-wing candidates.
  • The Board of Governors has significant control, including the ability to hire and fire reserve bank presidents.

Source Information

Axios
United States moves to restrict visa length for foreign students, reporters

United States moves to restrict visa length for foreign students, reporters

August 28, 2025
The Trump administration plans to reduce the time foreign students, cultural exchange participants, and journalists can stay in the U.S. under certain visas. The Department of Homeland Security announced these changes to prevent "visa abuse" and improve monitoring of visa holders. Student visas would be limited to four years, cultural exchange to four years, and reporters to 240 days, with specific restrictions for Chinese journalists.

Key Facts:

  • The Trump administration aims to shorten stay durations for student, journalist, and cultural exchange visas.
  • The planned changes are intended to address "visa abuse" and enhance U.S. government oversight.
  • F visas for students and J visas for cultural exchanges would be limited to four years.
  • I visas for journalists would be capped at 240 days, with an extension possible.
  • Chinese journalists would face a 90-day stay limit.
  • Previously, student visas lasted for the duration of academic programs.
  • The new rules could affect international students' ability to complete longer programs and participate in research.
  • Around 1.6 million international students were studying in the U.S. as of 2024.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Florida taxpayers may lose $218M on ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ as judge orders shutdown

Florida taxpayers may lose $218M on ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ as judge orders shutdown

August 28, 2025
A judge has ordered the shutdown of a detention center in Florida, known as "Alligator Alcatraz," which was built on a converted training airport. This decision could lead to a financial loss of $218 million for Florida taxpayers. The facility is being closed due to legal issues, including not following laws about environmental reviews.

Key Facts:

  • The detention center, called "Alligator Alcatraz," is in the Florida Everglades.
  • A judge ruled to close the facility due to legal challenges, including environmental concerns.
  • The shutdown process will cost Florida between $15 million and $20 million.
  • Reopening the center, if allowed, would also cost between $15 million and $20 million.
  • The facility was originally intended to support immigration enforcement operations.
  • The federal government has not financially contributed to the construction or operation of the center.
  • Reports indicated unsanitary conditions and lack of access to legal aid for detainees.
  • The number of detainees is decreasing as the facility is being emptied.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Fed governor Cook sues Trump administration in fight over firing

Fed governor Cook sues Trump administration in fight over firing

August 28, 2025
Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook sued former President Trump after her firing, seeking to remain in her position while the case is resolved. This legal action raises questions about the president's authority to remove a central bank official. The lawsuit challenges the firing based on allegations of mortgage fraud, which Cook disputes.

Key Facts:

  • Lisa Cook, a Federal Reserve governor, filed a lawsuit against former President Trump.
  • Cook wants the court to allow her to keep her job while the lawsuit is ongoing.
  • The lawsuit questions if a president can legally remove a central bank official without strong evidence ("for cause").
  • Cook's firing is linked to allegations of mortgage fraud by Federal Housing Finance Agency director Bill Pulte.
  • Cook denies the allegations, calling them false and without proof.
  • Trump's removal of Cook was announced on a social media platform, Truth Social.
  • The case will test how much power the president has over the Federal Reserve Board.
  • Cook states there was no legal reason for her dismissal.

Source Information

Axios
The federal government is taking over D.C.'s Union Station. What does that mean?

The federal government is taking over D.C.'s Union Station. What does that mean?

August 28, 2025
The U.S. federal government is taking over management of Union Station in Washington, D.C., a major train station. The Department of Transportation, which owns the building, aims to address safety and repair issues. This move has some local support because the station needs extensive renovations.

Key Facts:

  • The federal government owns Union Station and will now manage it.
  • The Department of Transportation, known as DOT, announced the management change.
  • Before this, a local nonprofit and Amtrak managed the station's operations.
  • Union Station serves over 70,000 passengers daily with more than 200 trains.
  • The station has faced crime issues, including a fatal shooting this year.
  • Union Station needs significant repairs, costing around $8 billion.
  • Local officials, including the mayor, support federal intervention for improvements.

Source Information

NPR Home
US Fed Governor Lisa Cook sues Trump over attempt to fire her

US Fed Governor Lisa Cook sues Trump over attempt to fire her

August 28, 2025
Lisa Cook, a governor at the U.S. Federal Reserve, has filed a lawsuit against former President Donald Trump. She is challenging his attempt to fire her, claiming it is unlawful.

Key Facts:

  • Lisa Cook is a governor at the U.S. Federal Reserve.
  • Cook has sued former President Donald Trump.
  • The lawsuit challenges Trump’s attempt to remove her from her position.
  • Cook claims the firing attempt is unlawful and wants it declared void.
  • Trump argues he had reasons to believe Cook made false statements about her mortgage.
  • Trump cited his constitutional powers as a basis for trying to remove her.
  • The case might lead to legal challenges that could reach the U.S. Supreme Court.
  • Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell and the Board of Governors are also named in the lawsuit.

Source Information

BBC World