The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

‘Bring her home’: Savannah Guthrie shares new message after mother’s alleged abduction

‘Bring her home’: Savannah Guthrie shares new message after mother’s alleged abduction

Summary

Nancy Guthrie, age 84, was reportedly taken from her home early on February 1, 2026. Authorities are currently investigating the case as a possible abduction.

Key Facts

  • Nancy Guthrie is 84 years old.
  • She is believed to have been abducted from her home.
  • The incident happened early in the morning on February 1, 2026.
  • Law enforcement is involved in the investigation.
  • Savannah Guthrie, likely related to Nancy Guthrie, has shared a public message calling for her safe return.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Freedom 250 Events List After Great American State Fair Concert Shake-up

Freedom 250 Events List After Great American State Fair Concert Shake-up

Summary

The Great American State Fair, part of the Freedom 250 events celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026, has changed its plans after several artists dropped out. President Donald Trump will now give a major speech at the fair’s opening, which will still include many other events nationwide.

Key Facts

  • The Great American State Fair runs from June 25 to July 10, 2026, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
  • Originally, the fair featured a 16-day concert series, but multiple performers withdrew citing political concerns.
  • President Donald Trump will headline the opening ceremony on June 24, 2026, delivering a speech with musical performances by artists and military bands.
  • The Freedom 250 initiative organizes events across the U.S. marking the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
  • Other major Freedom 250 events include the FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone, the Teddy Roosevelt Presidential Library opening, the Mount Rushmore 250 celebration, and national Independence Day fireworks.
  • Freedom 250 is a government-backed program separate from America250, the official nonprofit overseeing the semiquincentennial celebrations.
  • Some artists who quit the lineup said they were unaware of political associations when they agreed to perform.
  • The fair will continue with daily programming, exhibits, and national celebrations despite changes to the concert lineup.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Penn State student shot dead near his home

Penn State student shot dead near his home

Summary

William Schmidt, a 22-year-old Penn State student, was shot and killed near his home in South Philadelphia on June 6, 2026. Police found him with a gunshot wound to his chest and he was pronounced dead at the hospital shortly after.

Key Facts

  • William Schmidt was 22 years old and studied digital journalism and media at Penn State World Campus.
  • He was shot at about 1:30 a.m. on June 6, 2026, near his home in South Philadelphia.
  • Police found him lying on the road with a gunshot wound to his chest.
  • Schmidt was taken to the hospital but was pronounced dead at 1:47 a.m.
  • No arrests have been made and police have not released any information about a motive.
  • Penn State University expressed sorrow and offered condolences to Schmidt’s family and friends.
  • Police are asking anyone with information to contact the homicide unit or submit an anonymous tip.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Nithya Raman Chances Against Karen Bass for LA Mayor Race

Nithya Raman Chances Against Karen Bass for LA Mayor Race

Summary

In the Los Angeles mayoral race, incumbent Mayor Karen Bass is in first place, while councilmember Nithya Raman has recently moved into second place ahead of Spencer Pratt as mail-in ballots are still being counted. The top two candidates will compete in the November runoff, with polls showing Raman could have a better chance than Pratt to challenge Bass.

Key Facts

  • Karen Bass, the current mayor and a Democrat, has about 34.7% of the vote.
  • Nithya Raman, a progressive city councilmember, now has around 27.1%, slightly ahead of Spencer Pratt’s 26.7%.
  • Mail-in ballots, which favor liberal candidates, are still being counted in Los Angeles.
  • Polls before the election showed Bass, Raman, and Pratt were close in support, within margin of error.
  • In a one-on-one race, Raman is polling ahead of Bass, while Bass leads Pratt in head-to-head matchups.
  • Prediction markets give Bass a roughly 56-59% chance to win and Raman about 40-41%, with Pratt at about 1%.
  • President Donald Trump criticized the slow mail-in ballot count, claiming without evidence that Democrats are trying to “steal” the election.
  • The final runoff race will include the top two candidates after all ballots are counted.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Trump gets cold hometown welcome at NBA Finals in New York

Trump gets cold hometown welcome at NBA Finals in New York

Summary

President Donald Trump attended an NBA Finals game at Madison Square Garden in New York, where fans booed him and security was very tight. Authorities increased safety measures around the venue, limiting access and banning bags and watch parties nearby.

Key Facts

  • President Trump appeared on screen during the national anthem and was booed by fans.
  • Security was increased, with fans without tickets barred from the area around Madison Square Garden.
  • Watch parties near the arena were banned for this game, unlike previous playoff games.
  • Ticket holders were advised to arrive early for strict security checks similar to airport screening.
  • A 10-foot fence and many Secret Service agents and NYPD officers were around the venue to protect the President.
  • Some New Yorkers and officials, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, criticized Trump’s visit for causing disruptions.
  • Protesters outside the arena showed hostility with signs and gestures against Trump.
  • The NBA Finals game featured the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs, with the Spurs winning the game.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Military service and PTSD do not excuse Graham Platner’s behavior

Military service and PTSD do not excuse Graham Platner’s behavior

Summary

A Marine veteran running for the U.S. Senate has faced criticism for his bad behavior and controversial views. Another veteran says that his PTSD should not be used as an excuse and that he must take responsibility for his actions.

Key Facts

  • The person involved is a Marine veteran seeking a U.S. Senate seat.
  • He has a history of problematic behavior and questionable opinions.
  • He claims his actions relate to his PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
  • Another veteran disagrees with using PTSD as a reason for his behavior.
  • The fellow veteran believes he should be held accountable.
  • PTSD is a mental health condition that can affect people after traumatic events.
  • The debate focuses on responsibility despite mental health challenges.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

What happens when Social Security recipients are sued over unpaid debt?

What happens when Social Security recipients are sued over unpaid debt?

Summary

Social Security benefits are mostly protected from being taken by private debt collectors if a Social Security recipient is sued over unpaid debt. However, certain federal debts like unpaid taxes, student loans, or child support can affect these benefits. Creditors may still try to take other assets or money in bank accounts if a court judgment is made against the person.

Key Facts

  • Social Security benefits provide money for millions of retired Americans to pay bills and daily costs.
  • High inflation and borrowing costs are making it harder for some retirees to pay debts.
  • Creditors can sue if debts are unpaid, starting with a legal notice called a summons and complaint.
  • Social Security retirement, disability, and survivor benefits usually cannot be taken by private debt collectors after a court judgment.
  • Exceptions include some federal debts like unpaid taxes, federal student loans, or child support.
  • Creditors can try to take other assets like bank funds, investments, or property not protected by law.
  • Banks must protect a certain amount of Social Security money, but issues can happen if funds are mixed with other income.
  • State laws differ on what assets creditors can reach after a lawsuit judgment.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Donaldson told police sex abuse allegations were 'unbelievable'

Donaldson told police sex abuse allegations were 'unbelievable'

Summary

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, 63, denies all 18 sex abuse charges against him, including one count of rape, allegedly committed between 1985 and 2008. In a police interview, he called the allegations "unbelievable" and strongly denied the accusations during questioning.

Key Facts

  • Sir Jeffrey Donaldson faces 18 sex abuse charges, including rape.
  • The alleged incidents date from 1985 to 2008.
  • He was arrested at his home in County Down and questioned at Antrim Police Station.
  • During a 4.5-hour police interview, he denied all accusations, calling them "unbelievable".
  • Specific allegations include unwanted touching and sexual assault claims from two complainants.
  • He admitted apologizing to one complainant during a 1990s meeting but said it was because she felt uncomfortable, not due to any admitted wrongdoing.
  • The police interview was edited for court to remove repeated or irrelevant parts but remains an accurate reflection of his responses.
  • The trial includes testimony that Lady Donaldson may have witnessed an incident but did not intervene.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Health Insurers Are Saving Children From MAHA

Health Insurers Are Saving Children From MAHA

Summary

A health insurer trade group announced it will keep covering routine childhood vaccines through 2027, despite the Biden administration’s effort to change the vaccines recommended for children. The administration aims to reduce the number of vaccines advised for kids and align the U.S. schedule with other countries, but insurers are continuing to support vaccination because it helps prevent costly diseases.

Key Facts

  • The insurer trade group AHIP said its plans will cover routine vaccines through 2027.
  • The Biden administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) agenda seeks to reduce recommended childhood vaccines from 17 to 11.
  • A federal judge blocked the administration’s earlier attempt to cut vaccine recommendations after a lawsuit by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
  • The administration is appealing the court decision and ordered the CDC to review and possibly revise vaccine schedules.
  • Private insurers support vaccinations because vaccines prevent expensive illness treatments.
  • Research shows treating one measles case can cost an average of $43,000 in public health expenses.
  • Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles.
  • The administration’s plan also focuses on giving parents and doctors more flexibility and reducing vaccine mandates.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Care worker who helped boss with child abuse jailed for 25 years

Care worker who helped boss with child abuse jailed for 25 years

Summary

A care worker named Linda Brunning was sentenced to 25 years in jail for helping her boss, Malcolm Phillips, abuse children at a children’s home in Halifax. Phillips, aged 93, was found unfit to stand trial and was given a discharge, but was found to have committed abuse over many years.

Key Facts

  • Malcolm Phillips managed a children’s home called Skircoat Lodge from 1976 to 1994.
  • Phillips was accused of sexually and physically abusing four girls and two boys in his care.
  • He was deemed too old and ill to face trial and was given an absolute discharge with a sexual harm prevention order.
  • Linda Brunning, Phillips’ assistant, was found guilty of assisting in sexual abuse and indecent assault of boys.
  • Brunning was sentenced to 25 years in prison for her role in the abuse.
  • The home housed children aged 4 to 16 who were placed there for their safety.
  • Victims reported being deprived of food, sleep, and family visits, and felt isolated and scared.
  • Phillips had a previous conviction in 2001 for abusing children at the same home and served seven years in prison.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Trump administration targets citizens accused of fraud, other crimes in denaturalization effort

Trump administration targets citizens accused of fraud, other crimes in denaturalization effort

Summary

The Trump administration is working to take away the U.S. citizenship of 17 people. These individuals are accused of fraud and other crimes. This effort is called denaturalization, which means canceling citizenship.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration is focusing on removing citizenship from some people.
  • A total of 17 individuals are targeted in this effort.
  • These people are accused of fraud and other crimes.
  • The process used is called denaturalization, which cancels citizenship.
  • The news was reported by CBS News correspondent Camilo Montoya-Galvez.
  • The goal is to address cases where citizenship was gained through dishonest means.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

John Oliver on New College’s Maga takeover: ‘More about political posturing than students’ lives’

John Oliver on New College’s Maga takeover: ‘More about political posturing than students’ lives’

Summary

Florida’s New College has undergone major changes after Governor Ron DeSantis and his allies took control of its board of trustees. The new leadership removed several faculty, cut the gender studies program, and made other controversial changes, aiming to reshape the school based on conservative ideas.

Key Facts

  • Governor Ron DeSantis appointed six conservatives, including activist Christopher Rufo, to New College’s board in 2023.
  • New College was founded in the 1960s with an emphasis on independent study and no grades.
  • The college was known for its inclusive and progressive environment, including strong support for LGBTQ+ students.
  • The new board removed the college president and brought in Richard Corcoran to lead.
  • Corcoran cut the gender studies program, which had a small budget and staff.
  • More than one-third of professors left or were fired after the leadership change.
  • New faculty included figures like Bruce Gilley, who is known for controversial views on colonialism.
  • Despite the turmoil, New College’s student enrollment increased during Corcoran’s first year.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Border czar Tom Homan says immigration arrests are not a priority for ICE at World Cup

Border czar Tom Homan says immigration arrests are not a priority for ICE at World Cup

Summary

Tom Homan, the White House border czar, said ICE agents will not focus on immigration arrests during the World Cup. This means immigration enforcement is not a priority at this event according to officials.

Key Facts

  • Tom Homan is the White House border czar.
  • He spoke to CBS News about ICE activities at the World Cup.
  • ICE agents will not prioritize immigration arrests at the World Cup.
  • The World Cup is an international soccer tournament taking place in the U.S.
  • This announcement aims to clarify enforcement actions during the event.
  • The statement was made in an interview with CBS News reporter Camilo Montoya-Galvez.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Lawsuit aims to block UFC event at White House on Trump’s birthday

Lawsuit aims to block UFC event at White House on Trump’s birthday

Summary

A watchdog group filed a lawsuit to stop a UFC event planned at the White House on President Trump’s 80th birthday and Flag Day. The lawsuit claims the event breaks federal laws because it is a private, commercial event held at national monuments without proper permissions and may benefit President Trump financially.

Key Facts

  • The UFC Freedom 250 event is set for June 14 at the White House and Lincoln Memorial.
  • The Public Integrity Project seeks a court order to stop the event before it begins.
  • The lawsuit argues the event violates rules that only allow federal government-organized 250th anniversary events to bypass usual permits.
  • The event’s organization was reportedly suggested by President Trump and promotes the UFC brand.
  • A large steel structure called “the Claw” was installed on the South Lawn without required congressional approval or an environmental review.
  • President Trump bought up to $50,000 in stock of the UFC’s parent company recently, raising conflict of interest concerns.
  • Celebrities invited to the event have declined, but 4,300 military personnel and political insiders plan to attend.
  • Weather forecasts predict possible rain and thunderstorms during the event, especially in the evening.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Justice Alito thinks only liberals deserve stinging rebukes

Justice Alito thinks only liberals deserve stinging rebukes

Summary

Justice Alito expressed concern about harsh language used in a civil rights case. This reaction highlights his views on how language should be used in legal discussions.

Key Facts

  • Justice Alito made comments about the tone used in a civil rights case.
  • He showed concern about what he called "rhetorical delicacy," meaning careful or polite language.
  • The concern came specifically during a case involving civil rights.
  • The reaction suggests Alito may have different standards for language depending on political views.
  • The discussion reflects ongoing debates about language and fairness in the U.S. legal system.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Lawmakers fear Bill Pulte's political motives amid appointment as acting intelligence chief

Lawmakers fear Bill Pulte's political motives amid appointment as acting intelligence chief

Summary

President Donald Trump appointed Bill Pulte as the acting director of national intelligence. Some lawmakers, including Congressman Jim Himes, expressed concern about Pulte's political motives and described the appointment as risky.

Key Facts

  • Bill Pulte was named acting director of national intelligence by President Trump.
  • Congressman Jim Himes, a Democrat from Connecticut, spoke about the appointment on the show "Face the Nation."
  • Himes called the appointment "most dangerous," showing worry about Pulte’s political intentions.
  • The appointment raised fears among some lawmakers about potential bias in intelligence leadership.
  • CBS News reported on the situation and aired interviews with involved figures.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Do Maine voters care about Graham Platner's scandals and controversial past?

Do Maine voters care about Graham Platner's scandals and controversial past?

Summary

Graham Platner is running in the Maine Democratic primary election. Despite scandals and a controversial past, he continues to campaign and voters have mixed reactions.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a candidate in the Maine Democratic primary.
  • His campaign has faced scandals and controversy.
  • Platner remains confident and continues his campaign.
  • Voters in Maine have different opinions about the impact of these scandals.
  • CBS News correspondent Caitlin Huey-Burns reported on voter reactions.
  • The article focuses on how these issues affect Platner’s chances in the election.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Paxton’s impeachment defense lawyer backs Talarico for Texas Senate

Paxton’s impeachment defense lawyer backs Talarico for Texas Senate

Summary

A lawyer who defended Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in his 2023 impeachment trial has now supported Paxton’s political opponent, James Talarico, in the Texas Senate race. The lawyer is Dan Cogdell, who previously worked on Paxton’s legal defense involving impeachment and securities fraud.

Key Facts

  • Dan Cogdell is a Houston-based defense attorney.
  • Cogdell helped defend Ken Paxton during his 2023 impeachment trial.
  • Cogdell also worked on Paxton’s securities fraud case defense.
  • Cogdell has endorsed state Representative James Talarico, a Democrat.
  • The endorsement is for the Texas Senate race.
  • Ken Paxton is the current Texas Attorney General.
  • The Senate race is considered high-profile in Texas politics.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Fewer Americans see US as exceptional ahead of 250th birthday: Survey

Fewer Americans see US as exceptional ahead of 250th birthday: Survey

Summary

A recent poll shows that fewer Americans believe the United States is an exceptional country as it nears its 250th anniversary. The survey found that 44% of Americans say the U.S. is one of the greatest countries in the world.

Key Facts

  • The poll was released on a Monday by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.
  • Only 44% of Americans said the U.S. is among the greatest countries globally.
  • About one-quarter of Americans gave the U.S. a different ranking (details cut off in the text).
  • The survey was conducted ahead of the country’s 250th birthday.
  • The poll measures public opinion on how Americans view their country’s status compared to others.
  • The findings indicate a decline in the number of people who see the U.S. as exceptional.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Lawyers for soldier who allegedly made $400K off Maduro's capture returning to court

Lawyers for soldier who allegedly made $400K off Maduro's capture returning to court

Summary

A U.S. Army special forces soldier, Master Sgt. Gannon Ken Van Dyke, is in court after being charged with using secret information about the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to make over $400,000 on a prediction market called Polymarket. Van Dyke pleaded not guilty and is currently on leave from the Army while the case proceeds.

Key Facts

  • Gannon Ken Van Dyke is a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army special forces.
  • He is accused of using classified information about Maduro's capture to place bets on Polymarket.
  • Van Dyke allegedly made more than $400,000 from 13 bets on the raid's outcome.
  • Prosecutors say he tried to destroy evidence after profiting.
  • Van Dyke pleaded not guilty and was released on a $250,000 personal recognizance bond.
  • The case is believed to be the first insider trading charge involving a prediction market.
  • Polymarket is a platform where users can bet on the outcomes of future events.
  • Another insider trading case involving a Google employee using confidential information on Polymarket is also being investigated.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.