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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

Trump administration move to reclassify cannabis sparks confusion

Trump administration move to reclassify cannabis sparks confusion

April 30, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The Trump administration has partially reclassified some cannabis products, moving certain medical and FDA-approved cannabis items from the strictest drug category (Schedule I) to a less restrictive one (Schedule III). This change applies only to some products and does not broadly reschedule all cannabis, causing confusion in the cannabis industry about how the rules will work.

Key Facts

  • Todd Blanche, acting attorney general, signed the order changing classifications for some cannabis products.
  • Products sold under state medical cannabis licenses and future FDA-approved cannabis drugs are moved to Schedule III, which includes regulated substances like certain painkillers.
  • The change does not affect existing FDA-approved cannabis medicines.
  • The move is justified by compliance with the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, a UN treaty from 1961 that limits cannabis production.
  • Industry experts say the change complicates an already complex system and creates uncertainty for businesses and consumers.
  • Some believe the timing of the announcement is politically motivated ahead of upcoming elections.
  • The new rules treat medical and recreational cannabis differently, even if the products are similar.
  • While this is seen as a small pro-cannabis sign from the administration, questions remain about how the new classifications will be applied in practice.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Fetterman laughs when asked about relationship with Democrats: ‘Well, I mean, cordial’

Fetterman laughs when asked about relationship with Democrats: ‘Well, I mean, cordial’

April 30, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senator John Fetterman from Pennsylvania said he is not very popular with other Senate Democrats, even though his win helped give Democrats the Senate majority in 2023 and 2024. He described his relationship with fellow Democrats as “cordial,” meaning polite but not close.

Key Facts

  • John Fetterman is a Democratic senator from Pennsylvania.
  • He helped Democrats gain the Senate majority by winning a seat previously held by a Republican.
  • The Senate majority for Democrats covers the years 2023 and 2024.
  • Fetterman said he is not very popular among other Senate Democrats.
  • He described his relationship with Senate Democrats as polite but not very friendly.
  • These comments came during an interview with Fox News anchor Sandra Smith.
  • His seat was previously held by Senator Pat Toomey, a Republican.
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The Hill
KKK-Style Figure Shown on Videos Wandering Through Town

KKK-Style Figure Shown on Videos Wandering Through Town

April 30, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A person dressed in a Ku Klux Klan-style white robe and hood was seen walking through West Warwick, Rhode Island, late at night. The police are investigating the incident but said it appears to be isolated and there is no known public safety threat.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened around 2 a.m. on April 27 in West Warwick, Rhode Island.
  • Videos showing the individual in white hood and robe were shared by a local business and residents.
  • The West Warwick Police Department confirmed awareness of the videos and investigation is ongoing.
  • A local store put up an anti-hate sign in response to the incident.
  • The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) is a white supremacist hate group known for violence and racism, mainly targeting Black Americans and other minorities.
  • The FBI reported 11,679 hate crime incidents in 2024, with most motivated by bias against race or ethnicity.
  • People with information or additional footage are asked to contact West Warwick Police.
  • Active KKK groups still exist in several U.S. states in 2024.
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Newsweek
First Trump tariff refunds expected about May 11

First Trump tariff refunds expected about May 11

April 30, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The U.S. government plans to start refunding money collected from some of President Trump’s tariffs around May 11. This follows a court decision that found certain tariffs were invalid. Customs and Border Protection has been preparing to return about $166 billion related to these tariffs.

Key Facts

  • The refunds are tied to tariffs imposed by President Trump.
  • A court ruled that some of these tariffs were invalid.
  • Refunds are expected to begin on or about May 11.
  • Judge Richard Eaton is overseeing the refund process.
  • Customs and Border Protection is in charge of issuing the refunds.
  • The total amount to be refunded is about $166 billion.
  • The announcement came after a closed court hearing.
  • The refunds involve the U.S. Court of International Trade.
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The Hill
Today’s far-reaching presidents should look instead to George Washington’s restraint

Today’s far-reaching presidents should look instead to George Washington’s restraint

April 30, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The article discusses how President George Washington shaped the role of the U.S. presidency by setting limits on presidential power. Washington showed that a president should focus on duty and avoid overreaching authority.

Key Facts

  • George Washington was the first President of the United States.
  • He set examples for how presidents should behave.
  • Washington believed presidents should not try to do everything or gain too much power.
  • His approach emphasized restraint and responsibility.
  • The article suggests current presidents could learn from Washington’s example.
  • Washington’s leadership helped define the balance of power in the U.S. government.
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The Hill
Florida Republicans reject plan to weaken childhood vaccine requirements

Florida Republicans reject plan to weaken childhood vaccine requirements

April 30, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Florida’s Republican House leaders rejected a plan by Governor Ron DeSantis to allow parents to exempt their children from certain school vaccine requirements based on conscience. The proposal, called the Medical Freedom bill, did not move forward despite backing from the Republican-led Senate.

Key Facts

  • Florida Governor Ron DeSantis proposed a bill to let parents opt out of some childhood vaccine requirements for schools based on personal conscience reasons.
  • The Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez quickly announced the House would not consider the bill during a special session.
  • The Medical Freedom bill would have expanded existing exemptions, which currently only allow medical or religious reasons.
  • Florida’s Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo supports ending all vaccine mandates in the state.
  • A poll in October found 63% of Floridians oppose ending vaccine mandates, with 48% strongly against it.
  • The House rejection means key vaccinations like measles, mumps, polio, and chickenpox will remain required for schoolchildren.
  • Some vaccines, such as for chickenpox and hepatitis B, may still face efforts to repeal their mandates by health officials.
  • Governor DeSantis called the House’s rejection “typical political shenanigans,” expressing frustration at the opposition.
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Ars Technica
'SNL' Writer Jimmy Fowlie's Missing Sister Found Dead

'SNL' Writer Jimmy Fowlie's Missing Sister Found Dead

April 30, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Jimmy Fowlie, a writer for Saturday Night Live, announced that his sister, Christina Lynn Downer, who went missing in December, has been found dead. The Los Angeles Police Department has changed the case to a homicide investigation after discovering that her phone and social media were used by someone else to hide her disappearance.

Key Facts

  • Christina Lynn Downer, age 38, was reported missing to the LAPD in December.
  • Jimmy Fowlie said authorities now consider the case a homicide investigation.
  • Before going missing, Christina’s phone and social media accounts were taken over by someone else.
  • The person who took her phone used it to ask for money and made it seem like she chose to disappear.
  • Jimmy Fowlie shared the update to raise awareness and honor his sister’s memory.
  • He hopes someone with information will come forward to help solve the case.
  • The investigation is ongoing and more details may be revealed later.
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Newsweek
US supreme court ‘demolishes’ Voting Rights Act | First Thing

US supreme court ‘demolishes’ Voting Rights Act | First Thing

April 30, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The US Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to weaken a key part of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, called Section 2, which helped prevent racial discrimination in voting. The court said states are not required to draw voting districts where minorities are the majority, affecting protections for minority voters.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court decision focused on Louisiana’s congressional map.
  • Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act aimed to stop racial discrimination in voting districts.
  • The court ruled Section 2 does not force states to create majority-minority districts.
  • The decision was made along ideological lines, with a 6-3 vote.
  • Some lawmakers fear this ruling will reduce minority voting power and harm civil rights.
  • The ruling may affect how voting maps are drawn before upcoming elections.
  • Justices John Roberts and Samuel Alito have worked to reduce civil rights protections over time.
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Guardian World Guardian US
GOP’s Chances of Winning House After Supreme Court Voting Rights Act Move

GOP’s Chances of Winning House After Supreme Court Voting Rights Act Move

April 30, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Louisiana's second majority-Black congressional district violated the Constitution by focusing too much on race in its design. This decision limits how states can use race when drawing voting districts and may affect control of the House of Representatives in the 2026 elections. Despite this change, prediction markets still strongly favor Democrats winning the House.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court ruled that Louisiana’s majority-Black district was unconstitutional due to race being the main factor in its design.
  • The 6-3 decision tightens limits on how states can use race in drawing voting boundaries under the Voting Rights Act.
  • This ruling could allow Republican-led states to redraw maps in a way that may reduce Democratic advantages in certain areas.
  • Prediction markets show Democrats have about an 82-85% chance to control the House after the 2026 elections.
  • The ruling affects over 300 House districts nationwide, where small changes could impact election outcomes.
  • Justice Samuel Alito wrote that the Voting Rights Act must enforce the Constitution without conflicting with it.
  • President Donald Trump praised the ruling as a victory for equal protection under the law.
  • Democrats warn the decision weakens protections for minority voters by letting states justify changes based on political reasons instead of race.
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Newsweek
Activists paid for the Voting Rights Act in blood. The supreme court has undermined it | Sophia Lin Lakin

Activists paid for the Voting Rights Act in blood. The supreme court has undermined it | Sophia Lin Lakin

April 30, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

The Supreme Court has weakened the Voting Rights Act by removing key protections against racial discrimination in voting. This change affects how electoral districts are drawn and may reduce the political power of minority voters, especially Black communities.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court removed the main part of the Voting Rights Act that stopped voting practices harming minority voters.
  • Section 2 of the law prevented race-based district maps that limit minority voting power.
  • The decision threatens gains made over decades in fair representation for Black voters.
  • In Louisiana, Black voters were once limited to only one district, but a court had created two districts with Black majorities for 2024 elections—this progress is now in doubt.
  • The ruling affects many levels of government, including congressional seats, state legislatures, city councils, and school boards.
  • Losing these protections could reduce minority communities’ influence on important local decisions like school funding and healthcare.
  • The article references the long struggle by civil rights activists, including Martin Luther King Jr., to secure voting rights and fair representation.
  • Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg had warned against removing these protections, comparing it to discarding an umbrella during a rainstorm.
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Guardian US
Cassidy trails behind Letlow, Fleming in Louisiana’s GOP Senate primary: Poll

Cassidy trails behind Letlow, Fleming in Louisiana’s GOP Senate primary: Poll

April 30, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senator Bill Cassidy is currently in third place among Republican voters in Louisiana’s upcoming primary, based on a recent poll. The poll shows John Fleming and Luke Letlow leading ahead of the primary election.

Key Facts

  • Senator Bill Cassidy is the current Republican senator from Louisiana.
  • A new poll by Emerson College shows Cassidy in third place in the GOP primary race.
  • John Fleming, Louisiana’s State Treasurer, leads with 28% in the poll.
  • Luke Letlow is also ahead of Cassidy in the poll results.
  • The poll measures support among likely Republican primary voters in Louisiana.
  • The results suggest a competitive Republican primary election in Louisiana soon.
  • The poll was released on a Thursday before the primary election date.
  • The primary election will determine the Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate seat from Louisiana.
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The Hill
Catholics Are Fine With Pope Leo Weighing in on US Policy

Catholics Are Fine With Pope Leo Weighing in on US Policy

April 30, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A recent survey found that nearly half of American Catholics think it is okay for Pope Leo XIV to criticize President Donald Trump’s policies, while most Americans disapprove of President Trump criticizing the pope. This comes amid public disagreements between the White House and the Vatican over issues like immigration and foreign policy.

Key Facts

  • 48% of Catholics say it is appropriate for Pope Leo XIV to criticize President Trump’s policies.
  • Only 21% of Americans think it is appropriate for President Trump to publicly criticize the pope.
  • 69% of Americans and 71% of Catholics say it is inappropriate for the president to criticize the pope.
  • The survey was done by Verasight from April 21-23 with 2,000 U.S. adults and has a 2.3% margin of error.
  • Disagreements between the White House and the Vatican include U.S. immigration enforcement and U.S.-Israeli-Iran conflict concerns.
  • This dispute is notable as Pope Leo XIV is the first American-born pope.
  • Catholics make up about 25% of the U.S. electorate and are influential in key swing states.
  • The findings suggest that Americans expect political leaders to avoid attacking religious leaders publicly.
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Newsweek
Could Lib Dems become the biggest party in English local government?

Could Lib Dems become the biggest party in English local government?

April 30, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The Liberal Democrats hope to become the largest party in English local government after the 8 May elections. They are running a major digital campaign focusing on opposing Nigel Farage and contrasting their leader Ed Davey’s criticism of President Trump with Farage’s support for him.

Key Facts

  • The Liberal Democrats aim to increase their number of local councillors for the eighth election in a row.
  • They could potentially overtake the Conservatives as the second biggest party, and might become the biggest if Labour loses many seats.
  • The party focuses on gaining seats in areas they won from Conservatives in 2024, like Surrey.
  • They are testing new campaigning strategies involving targeted voter outreach and digital advertising.
  • Their campaign criticizes Nigel Farage’s support for President Trump, contrasting it with Ed Davey’s opposition.
  • The Lib Dems see strong tactical voting aimed at blocking the Reform UK party, which is linked to Farage.
  • They mention issues like fuel duty cuts connected to the Iran war to connect with voters’ concerns.
  • Their campaign strategy is mainly for the next general election but is being tested in these local elections.
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Guardian World
Americans oppose Trump ballroom 2-to-1; even more oppose his signature on money: Poll

Americans oppose Trump ballroom 2-to-1; even more oppose his signature on money: Poll

April 30, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Most Americans oppose President Donald Trump’s plan to tear down the East Wing of the White House to build a large ballroom, according to a recent poll. Additionally, people strongly disagree with adding Trump’s signature to U.S. paper money. Support for the ballroom is mainly from Republicans, especially Trump supporters.

Key Facts

  • 56% of Americans oppose demolishing the East Wing to build a 90,000-square-foot ballroom; 28% support it.
  • Opposition to a 250-foot arch related to the project is even higher.
  • Over 5 times as many Americans oppose adding President Trump’s signature to paper currency than support it.
  • The East Wing was built in 1902 and renovated in 1942; demolition started in October 2025.
  • The National Trust for Historic Preservation sued to stop the ballroom construction but construction was allowed to continue by an appeals court.
  • Republican support for the ballroom rose from 62% to 72% after a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
  • Republicans proposed a $400 million bill to fund the ballroom; Trump claimed private donors would pay for it.
  • Nearly 90% of Democrats and about 60% of independents oppose the ballroom project.
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ABC News
US: Hegseth under fire in Congress over Iran war as diplomacy stalls

US: Hegseth under fire in Congress over Iran war as diplomacy stalls

April 30, 2026 • France24

Summary

Pete Hegseth was strongly criticized in Congress for starting a conflict with Iran without getting official approval. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump rejected Iran's offer about the Strait of Hormuz, causing talks between the two countries to break down.

Key Facts

  • Pete Hegseth faced criticism in Congress for launching conflict with Iran without approval.
  • Democrats questioned the reasons given for going to war against Iran.
  • The estimated cost of the war is about $25 billion.
  • President Donald Trump rejected Iran's proposal concerning the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Because of this rejection, diplomatic negotiations are stuck.
  • Iran is trying to get support from other countries.
  • The situation highlights tensions between the U.S. and Iran in 2026.
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France24
Two justices, one quest: push to gut Voting Rights Act reaches final act

Two justices, one quest: push to gut Voting Rights Act reaches final act

April 30, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

The US Supreme Court ruled against a key part of the 1965 Voting Rights Act (VRA), weakening protections that helped minority voters. Justices John Roberts and Samuel Alito led the conservative majority in decisions that reduced federal efforts to prevent racial discrimination in voting, especially in southern states.

Key Facts

  • The ruling in Louisiana v. Callais struck down a part of the VRA aimed at protecting minority voters from having their power reduced by electoral maps.
  • The decision was made by a 6-3 vote along ideological lines, with the conservative justices in the majority.
  • The court said creating a second majority-Black voting district in Louisiana was unconstitutional racial gerrymandering.
  • This ruling follows previous decisions by Chief Justice Roberts and Justice Alito that have weakened the VRA over the past decade.
  • In 2013, the Roberts court ended federal oversight of voting changes in southern states, a major blow to the VRA.
  • The Voting Rights Act was originally passed in 1965 to stop racial discrimination in elections.
  • Justices Roberts and Alito have a shared conservative background, both having worked in President Reagan’s Justice Department before joining the Supreme Court.
  • Liberal justices dissented, saying the ruling harms minority voters and contradicts the original purpose of the equal protection clause in the US Constitution.
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Guardian US
Jimmy Kimmel’s quip about Melania Trump is protected speech, and Disney must stand tall | Margaret Sullivan

Jimmy Kimmel’s quip about Melania Trump is protected speech, and Disney must stand tall | Margaret Sullivan

April 30, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Jimmy Kimmel made a joke about Melania Trump’s age difference with President Trump on his show. President Trump and Melania criticized the joke, and Trump demanded Kimmel be fired. The FCC, led by a Trump appointee, launched license reviews of ABC stations after the joke, raising concerns about free speech and government pressure on media companies.

Key Facts

  • Jimmy Kimmel joked about Melania Trump on his late-night show before an alleged assassination attempt on President Trump.
  • Melania called the joke hateful, and President Trump called it a call to violence and demanded Kimmel’s firing.
  • ABC did not fire Kimmel, recalling a previous incident when public backlash restored his show after a brief suspension.
  • Brendan Carr, chair of the FCC and a Trump appointee, ordered early license reviews of eight ABC stations, citing diversity rule compliance.
  • Critics say the FCC’s move violates the First Amendment and tries to punish ABC for Kimmel’s joke.
  • Disney stated ABC follows FCC rules and will defend itself legally but did not strongly defend the joke itself.
  • The situation raises fears media companies may self-censor to avoid government or legal trouble.
  • President Trump has a history of suing news organizations over unfavorable coverage or comments.
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Guardian US
Coast Guard operating in "crisis" as shutdown halts pay, strains missions overseas

Coast Guard operating in "crisis" as shutdown halts pay, strains missions overseas

April 30, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The U.S. Coast Guard is facing major problems due to a government shutdown that has lasted 75 days. It owes over $300 million and has many unpaid utility bills, causing water, electricity, and gas services to be shut off at some bases and housing units. This affects both the Coast Guard’s ability to work and the living conditions of its personnel and families.

Key Facts

  • The Coast Guard is 75 days into the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
  • It owes more than $300 million in unpaid bills, including $5.2 million in overdue utility payments.
  • Utility services such as water, electricity, and gas have been cut off at several Coast Guard stations and housing units.
  • 43% of Coast Guard housing units have utility bills more than 30 days overdue.
  • Some Coast Guard families have had to leave their homes due to power cuts.
  • Coast Guard leaders report that service restorations often only happen after personnel plead with utility providers.
  • The Coast Guard falls under the Department of Homeland Security, so it is affected by DHS funding lapses.
  • Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Kevin Lunday said the shutdown has caused frustration and anger among Coast Guard members and their families.
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CBS News
As Iran war nears key 60-day deadline, Congress and Trump face choices

As Iran war nears key 60-day deadline, Congress and Trump face choices

April 30, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

President Trump is facing a legal deadline related to the war with Iran under a 1973 law that limits the use of military force without Congress’s approval. The law requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of starting hostilities and allows 60 days for military action unless Congress authorizes an extension or declares war. The 60-day period started on March 2 and ends this Friday, raising questions about whether the president will continue military action or seek Congress’s approval.

Key Facts

  • The War Powers Resolution of 1973 limits how long the president can use military force without Congress’s approval.
  • President Trump notified Congress of Iran hostilities on March 2, starting a 60-day clock.
  • The 60-day period for military use without congressional approval ends this Friday.
  • The law allows a 30-day extension only for safely withdrawing troops, not for continuing attacks.
  • Republicans in Congress have mostly supported President Trump so far but some express concerns about extending the war past 60 days.
  • Democrats have introduced multiple resolutions to limit the president’s war powers in Iran.
  • The U.S. and Iran agreed to a ceasefire on April 8, but peace talks remain uncertain.
  • Key issues include Iran’s nuclear program and tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, an important oil route.
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CBS News
The Memo: Thin case for Comey’s prosecution stirs unease even among some in GOP

The Memo: Thin case for Comey’s prosecution stirs unease even among some in GOP

April 30, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The Justice Department is prosecuting former FBI Director James Comey over a photograph involving seashells. This case is causing concern among some Republican members and strong criticism from Democrats and liberals.

Key Facts

  • The DOJ is pursuing legal action against James Comey, the former FBI Director.
  • The case centers on a photograph that contains seashells.
  • Some Republicans feel uneasy about this prosecution.
  • Democrats and liberal groups strongly oppose the case.
  • Critics see this prosecution as part of a series of efforts tied to President Donald Trump’s actions.
  • The situation has fueled political tensions between parties.
  • The controversy relates to broader debates about justice and politics in the U.S.
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The Hill