Account

  Login
  Sign Up For Free

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Parts of the White House's East Wing demolished to begin ballroom construction

October 22, 2025

Summary

The White House has started tearing down parts of the East Wing to build a new ballroom. This construction project is happening under President Trump’s administration.

Key Facts

  • Parts of the East Wing of the White House are being demolished.
  • The demolition is to make way for a new ballroom.
  • The construction is part of President Trump's plans for the White House.
  • This activity began in the week of October 22, 2025.
  • The news was reported by Tamara Keith and A Martínez.

Source Verification

NPR National

Preservation groups raise concerns about the White House renovations

October 22, 2025

Summary

Preservation groups are worried about ongoing renovations at the White House. NPR discussed the issue with architecture professor Priya Jain, who talked about the building's construction history.

Key Facts

  • Preservation groups are concerned about White House renovations.
  • The discussion was reported by NPR with architecture expert Priya Jain.
  • The White House is often called "The People's House."
  • The conversation included the building's historical construction background.
  • The article was published on October 22, 2025.

Source Verification

NPR National

Maryland food bank sees surge as furloughed workers feel the strain of the shutdown

October 22, 2025

Summary

A food bank in Maryland experienced a sharp increase in demand as federal workers, who are furloughed due to a government shutdown, sought help. The increase highlights the difficulties families are facing during this time.

Key Facts

  • A government shutdown is currently in effect.
  • Federal workers have been furloughed, meaning they were temporarily laid off without pay.
  • Many furloughed workers are turning to food banks for assistance.
  • The Maryland food bank has seen a significant rise in people needing help.
  • The situation shows the financial strain families are experiencing due to the shutdown.
  • The report was published on October 22, 2025.

Source Verification

NPR National
Illinois Democrat Pulled Over by Border Patrol

Illinois Democrat Pulled Over by Border Patrol

October 22, 2025

Summary

Illinois state Representative Hoan Huynh was stopped by Customs and Border Protection agents in Chicago while he was trying to inform residents about immigration enforcement activities. The agents allegedly blocked his car and pointed a gun at him. The incident occurred as part of increased federal immigration operations in the city under President Trump's administration.

Key Facts

  • Illinois state Representative Hoan Huynh was stopped by CBP agents on October 21 in Chicago.
  • The incident happened in the Albany Park neighborhood, at Montrose and Kimball avenues.
  • Huynh and his staff were trying to alert residents about immigration enforcement.
  • Six armed CBP agents surrounded Huynh's vehicle.
  • Federal agents allegedly pointed a gun at Huynh during the encounter.
  • Increased immigration enforcement is part of Operation Midway Blitz under President Trump.
  • The increased federal actions have caused tension in neighborhoods with immigrant populations.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Vehicle crashes into White House security gate, Secret Service says

Vehicle crashes into White House security gate, Secret Service says

October 22, 2025

Summary

A vehicle crashed into a Secret Service gate outside the White House on Tuesday night. The driver was arrested, and the vehicle was checked and found to be safe.

Key Facts

  • A vehicle hit a Secret Service gate near the White House on Tuesday night.
  • The Secret Service arrested the driver of the vehicle.
  • The incident happened at 10:37 PM near 17th and E Streets.
  • The vehicle was checked by authorities and found to be safe.
  • Details about the driver's identity or motive are not yet available.
  • The White House and Secret Service have not commented on the incident.
  • The Metropolitan Police Department referred inquiries to the Secret Service.

Source Verification

Axios
Woman Gets Bitten by a 'Street Cat,' Horror at What Happens Next

Woman Gets Bitten by a 'Street Cat,' Horror at What Happens Next

October 22, 2025

Summary

A woman in Texas was bitten by a street cat, resulting in a painful hand infection that needed medical treatment. She initially went to the emergency room and later saw a primary care doctor for additional antibiotics. Experts advise that cat bites can easily get infected, suggesting prompt cleaning and medical review if bitten.

Key Facts

  • A woman named Adriana Aguilar was bitten on the hand by a street cat.
  • She went to the emergency room where she received a tetanus shot and antibiotics.
  • Her hand became swollen and painful 48 hours after the bite.
  • Aguilar visited a primary care doctor and received more antibiotics.
  • Her treatment, including the ER visit and doctor appointment, led to medical bills of about $600.
  • Veterinarians advise prompt cleaning of cat bites and medical examination to prevent infection.
  • Cat bites are known to have a high risk of infection, and stray cats pose a higher risk for disease transmission, including rabies.

Source Verification

Newsweek
White House Responds to Jen Psaki's Remarks About Usha Vance

White House Responds to Jen Psaki's Remarks About Usha Vance

October 22, 2025

Summary

A White House official criticized Jen Psaki for comments she made about Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, during a podcast. Psaki had made remarks questioning Usha Vance’s situation. The comments sparked backlash on social media from conservatives.

Key Facts

  • Jen Psaki made remarks about Usha Vance during a podcast episode.
  • Psaki was a former White House press secretary under President Joe Biden and now hosts a show on MSNBC.
  • The comments suggested Usha Vance might need "saving" from her husband, JD Vance.
  • The White House communications director, Steven Cheung, criticized Psaki on social media.
  • Cheung used derogatory terms to describe Psaki and dismissed her comments.
  • Psaki’s remarks led to negative reactions from conservatives on social media.
  • Vice President JD Vance is currently involved in efforts related to the Gaza Peace Deal.
  • Newsweek has reached out to Psaki and the Vice President’s office for comment.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Trump treats Bill Ackman, Steve Wynn and other big donors to White House dinner

Trump treats Bill Ackman, Steve Wynn and other big donors to White House dinner

October 22, 2025

Summary

President Trump hosted a dinner at the White House with major Republican donors. The event took place on the Rose Garden patio and included discussions on political topics. Key figures from various industries attended, showing their financial support.

Key Facts

  • President Trump held a dinner for major Republican donors at the White House.
  • The dinner occurred on the newly renovated Rose Garden patio.
  • Over 60 major contributors and White House senior advisers attended.
  • Attendees included hedge fund manager Bill Ackman and casino mogul Steve Wynn.
  • The donors have supported Trump's political initiatives and the Republican National Committee.
  • Jared Isaacman, an ally of Elon Musk, was also present; he has previously donated to Trump.
  • Isaacman is lobbying to be nominated for a position at NASA.
  • Ethics experts have expressed concerns about the influence of wealthy donors.

Source Verification

Axios
Democratic primary war escalates over Graham Platner

Democratic primary war escalates over Graham Platner

October 22, 2025

Summary

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has publicly endorsed Maine Governor Janet Mills in the upcoming Maine Senate Democratic primary. This endorsement is a shift from Schumer's previous neutrality in the race, which features a contest between the party's traditional leaders and its progressive wing, represented by candidate Graham Platner.

Key Facts

  • Chuck Schumer, a leading Senate Democrat, supports Janet Mills for the Maine Senate seat.
  • This support marks a change from Schumer's previous neutral position.
  • Graham Platner, a progressive candidate, has faced controversy over past actions and statements.
  • Platner is competing against Mills, who is seen as part of the party's establishment.
  • Bernie Sanders has shown some support for Platner, highlighting the need for fresh voices in Washington.
  • Platner, an oyster farmer and Marine veteran, is under scrutiny for a tattoo linked to a Nazi symbol.
  • He has apologized for offensive remarks made in the past.
  • Platner argues that he has local support from Maine residents.

Source Verification

Axios
House GOP refers Obama's CIA chief Brennan to DOJ for allegedly lying to Congress

House GOP refers Obama's CIA chief Brennan to DOJ for allegedly lying to Congress

October 21, 2025

Summary

The House Judiciary Chair, Jim Jordan, has referred former CIA director John Brennan to the Justice Department. Brennan is accused of lying to Congress about the Steele dossier, which was a set of memos about alleged links between Russia and Trump. This move is part of a broader effort by House Republicans to pursue legal action against political opponents.

Key Facts

  • The referral was made by Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio.
  • John Brennan was the CIA director during President Obama's administration.
  • The accusation relates to Brennan's statements about the Steele dossier, a document from 2016 alleging ties between Russia and Trump.
  • The dossier was partly used in intelligence assessments, including one about Russian election interference.
  • Jordan's letter to the Justice Department claims Brennan made false statements regarding the CIA's involvement with the dossier.
  • Brennan reportedly denied any wrongdoing and has previously been investigated on related matters.
  • Brennan allegedly lied about the CIA's use of the dossier in a 2023 document.
  • Representatives for Brennan and the Justice Department did not immediately respond to comments about the referral.

Source Verification

Axios
Trump pick to lead watchdog agency withdraws after offensive text messages revealed

Trump pick to lead watchdog agency withdraws after offensive text messages revealed

October 21, 2025

Summary

President Donald Trump's nominee for a federal watchdog role, Paul Ingrassia, withdrew his candidacy after his offensive text messages were revealed. These texts led several Republican senators to retract their support for his nomination. Ingrassia was scheduled for a confirmation hearing but decided to step down.

Key Facts

  • Paul Ingrassia was nominated by President Trump to lead the Office of Special Counsel.
  • Offensive text messages from Ingrassia came to light, prompting a backlash from GOP senators.
  • In the texts, Ingrassia criticized the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday and mentioned having "a Nazi streak."
  • After the texts surfaced, several Republican senators, including top Trump allies, opposed his nomination.
  • Ingrassia announced he would withdraw from the confirmation hearing due to insufficient Republican support.
  • Senate Majority Leader John Thune also expressed that he wanted the nomination withdrawn.
  • The Office of Special Counsel investigates and protects government whistleblowers from retaliation.
  • Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called for Ingrassia to be removed from his current role completely.

Source Verification

NPR Home
AP: Paul Ingrassia nomination

AP: Paul Ingrassia nomination

October 21, 2025

Summary

President Donald Trump’s nominee, Paul Ingrassia, withdrew from consideration to lead the Office of Special Counsel after offensive text messages came to light. Several Republican senators decided not to support him, causing Ingrassia to step down from the nomination process.

Key Facts

  • President Trump nominated Paul Ingrassia to lead the Office of Special Counsel.
  • Texts from Ingrassia contained offensive remarks about Martin Luther King Jr. and references to having "a Nazi streak."
  • The public revelation of these texts led several Republican senators, including some loyal to Trump, to oppose the nomination.
  • Ingrassia withdrew from the nomination as he lacked enough support from Republican senators.
  • The Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs was set to hold a hearing for Ingrassia's nomination.
  • Senate Majority Leader John Thune and others hoped for the White House to officially withdraw Ingrassia's nomination.
  • Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called for Ingrassia to be removed from his current role with the Department of Homeland Security.
  • The Office of Special Counsel protects government employees and whistleblowers and enforces the Hatch Act, which limits political activities by federal employees.

Source Verification

NPR Home
Andrew Cuomo Rips ICE Raid in NYC as 'Abuse of Federal Power'

Andrew Cuomo Rips ICE Raid in NYC as 'Abuse of Federal Power'

October 21, 2025

Summary

Andrew Cuomo criticized a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid in New York City, calling it an "abuse of federal power" by the Trump administration. The operation, which targeted street vendors selling counterfeit goods in Manhattan, sparked public protests and political reactions.

Key Facts

  • Andrew Cuomo, a candidate for New York City mayor, criticized an ICE raid in Manhattan.
  • The raid was conducted by federal agents from several agencies, including ICE and the FBI.
  • The operation targeted street vendors selling counterfeit goods on Canal Street.
  • Public protests followed the raid; at least one protester was arrested.
  • Governor Kathy Hochul and City Mayor Eric Adams also voiced their concerns.
  • The Trump administration described the raid as a "targeted" action against illegal activities.
  • The incident has reignited debates over the relationship between local and federal law enforcement and sanctuary city policies.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Scoop: Infuriated Democrats ramp up battle with Mike Johnson over seating Grijalva

Scoop: Infuriated Democrats ramp up battle with Mike Johnson over seating Grijalva

October 21, 2025

Summary

Democrats are urging House Speaker Mike Johnson to swear in Adelita Grijalva, who was elected over a month ago. They argue that Grijalva’s delay in office is leaving thousands in Arizona without representation. Johnson has maintained that she will be sworn in when the government shutdown ends.

Key Facts

  • Adelita Grijalva was elected on September 23rd, and her win was confirmed on October 14th.
  • Speaker Mike Johnson says she will be sworn in when the government reopens.
  • Democrats claim this delay is harming Grijalva's constituents and possibly politically motivated.
  • The Arizona attorney general's office plans to sue Johnson over the delay.
  • Grijalva’s swearing-in is critical for signing a petition on a Justice Department files vote.
  • Currently, Grijalva faces challenges in accessing congressional resources and support.
  • Johnson claims he is following precedent, similar to a delay after Julia Letlow's election.

Source Verification

Axios
Trump sought $230M from Justice Dept. to settle past investigations of him

Trump sought $230M from Justice Dept. to settle past investigations of him

October 21, 2025

Summary

President Trump sought $230 million in damages from the Justice Department for past investigations against him. This request was made before Trump's reelection and hasn't progressed, though he mentioned it while speaking recently. The claims relate to past investigations, including one about Russian election interference.

Key Facts

  • President Trump requested $230 million from the Justice Department for past investigations.
  • This request resurfaced after Trump discussed it in the Oval Office with top officials.
  • The New York Times first reported Trump's demand.
  • Trump's claims were filed during Joe Biden's presidency but were not pursued after Trump's reelection.
  • The first claim involved damages for an investigation into Russian election meddling.
  • The second claim related to privacy violations during an FBI search of Mar-a-Lago in 2022.
  • Trump's legal team stated the claims were against what they call Democrat-led investigations.
  • There has been no update or action on the lawsuit since Trump's recent comments.

Source Verification

Axios
Washington furious over Trump's East Wing demo

Washington furious over Trump's East Wing demo

October 21, 2025

Summary

President Donald Trump is funding a $250 million ballroom project at the White House, which involves demolishing part of the East Wing. The construction has not been formally approved by the National Capital Planning Commission due to a government shutdown. The project is facing criticism due to its timing and cost.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is building a $250 million ballroom at the White House's East Wing.
  • The project is expected to fit 999 people, up from an initial estimate of 650.
  • The National Capital Planning Commission has not yet approved the project's plans.
  • The government shutdown has temporarily closed the agency responsible for area building approvals.
  • A Maryland-based contractor, Aceco, is involved in the demolition process.
  • Criticism has arisen from Democrats and the public about starting such a project during a government shutdown.
  • Trump administration's response emphasizes modernization and preservation of historical elements.
  • Similar renovations at the White House have faced backlash in the past under other presidents.

Source Verification

Axios
9 things to know about the $250 million ballroom Trump is adding to the White House

9 things to know about the $250 million ballroom Trump is adding to the White House

October 21, 2025

Summary

President Donald Trump has begun construction on a $250 million ballroom at the White House. The project involves demolishing part of the East Wing to build a 90,000-square-foot space. The funding is private, and no public money will be used.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is building a new ballroom at the White House.
  • Construction costs $250 million and will not use taxpayer money.
  • The ballroom will be twice the size of the main White House, holding 999 people.
  • Funding comes from private donors, but the full list isn’t released yet.
  • Part of the East Wing is being torn down for the new construction.
  • Some $22 million from the funding is from a settlement with YouTube.
  • The project proceeds without approval from a key planning commission.
  • The new ballroom resembles Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour
Trump Pick for Special Counsel Pulls Out Amid Racist Text Scandal

Trump Pick for Special Counsel Pulls Out Amid Racist Text Scandal

October 21, 2025

Summary

President Donald Trump's nominee for a federal watchdog position, Paul Ingrassia, withdrew his nomination after offensive text messages were revealed. These messages led to a lack of support from some Republican senators, prompting his decision to step back.

Key Facts

  • Paul Ingrassia was nominated by President Trump to lead the Office of Special Counsel.
  • He withdrew from consideration after offensive text messages he sent were made public.
  • The text messages contained racist and inflammatory content.
  • These revelations led to backlash from Republican senators.
  • Ingrassia was supposed to have a confirmation hearing with the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.
  • He announced his withdrawal due to insufficient Republican support.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Lawyers urge US appeals court to uphold Mahmoud Khalid’s release order

Lawyers urge US appeals court to uphold Mahmoud Khalid’s release order

October 21, 2025

Summary

Lawyers are asking a US appeals court to keep a previous decision that freed Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestine solidarity activist, from immigration detention. The US government is trying to deport Khalil due to his activism at Columbia University, citing an immigration law related to foreign policy. Khalil is appealing his immigration case, which is still ongoing.

Key Facts

  • Mahmoud Khalil was released from immigration detention by a lower court; lawyers want this decision upheld.
  • The US government seeks to deport him over his activism, using a law related to foreign policy.
  • Khalil, a legal resident, is the first well-known activist in the US to face deportation for campus activism.
  • President Trump’s administration targets students for deportation, accusing them of supporting terrorism.
  • ACLU argues the government is misusing broad deportation powers and that expressing ideas should not be punished.
  • Khalil was arrested in March and missed the birth of his child while detained.
  • Khalil’s immigration case involves claims he hid UN work on visa and residency applications.
  • His case is appealing through the Board of Immigration Appeals and may move to a circuit court.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Trump DOJ Tells Supreme Court Nat'l Guard Moves 'Not Judicially Reviewable'

Trump DOJ Tells Supreme Court Nat'l Guard Moves 'Not Judicially Reviewable'

October 21, 2025

Summary

The Trump administration's Department of Justice asked the Supreme Court to allow the deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago. They argued that the President's power to use the National Guard is not something courts should oversee, and emphasized that this power is a core presidential authority.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration wants the Supreme Court to approve using the National Guard in Chicago.
  • They argue that the President's power to deploy the National Guard is not subject to court review.
  • This issue could impact how much authority the President has to use military forces within the U.S.
  • Lower courts blocked the deployment, saying the administration overstated the threat level.
  • The Department of Justice cited a past Supreme Court case supporting presidential authority in emergencies.
  • There is concern from some that unchecked presidential power over state military forces could undermine state rights.
  • The situation involves decisions made during domestic protests around federal facilities.

Source Verification

Newsweek