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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Illinois congressman talks about the deployment of the National Guard in Chicago

Summary

Democratic Congressman Mike Quigley from Illinois discussed plans to send 500 National Guard troops to Chicago. This move is happening despite objections from local and state leaders.

Key Facts

  • Congressman Mike Quigley is from Illinois.
  • 500 National Guard troops are set to be deployed to Chicago.
  • Local and state officials do not support this deployment.
  • The information was shared in a conversation on NPR.
  • The deployment involves federal actions in the city of Chicago.

Source Verification

Most Americans Are Delaying Parenthood Over Fear of Losing Their Homes

Most Americans Are Delaying Parenthood Over Fear of Losing Their Homes

Summary

A survey found many Americans are delaying having children due to fears of losing their homes amid rising housing costs. Rising home and rent prices have outpaced income growth, making housing less affordable and causing significant stress for families. This housing crisis impacts various life decisions, including family planning and living arrangements.

Key Facts

  • A survey showed 67% of Americans fear losing their homes due to rising prices.
  • 64% delay having children over concerns about providing stable housing.
  • From 2019 to 2024, home prices increased by 48%, much higher than the 22% income growth.
  • Rent prices increased significantly during the pandemic and remain high.
  • The typical asking rent was $2,007 in August, 2.4% higher than the previous year.
  • In August, the median home sale price was $439,198, up 1.5% from the year before.
  • Many Americans struggle with rent or mortgage payments, with 44.4% finding it difficult.
  • Housing issues have led some to delay children, reduce college savings, or change schools.

Source Verification

Navy Dad Deployed—Mom Captures Baby’s ‘Heartbreaking’ Realization He’s Gone

Navy Dad Deployed—Mom Captures Baby’s ‘Heartbreaking’ Realization He’s Gone

Summary

Tayler Reagan shared a video of her 9-month-old son, Drew, who was looking for his dad after he had deployed with the Navy. The video shows the emotional impact of military deployment on families, particularly young children. Tayler discusses the challenges and stresses of being a military family and her efforts to support her children while their father is away.

Key Facts

  • Tayler Reagan shared a TikTok video of her son, Drew, looking for his dad, who is deployed with the Navy.
  • Drew's dad is a senior chief on a Navy submarine, limiting family contact to email.
  • Tayler and her husband met before he joined the Navy and have been together throughout his military career.
  • This is Drew's first experience with his dad's deployment, and he shows signs of missing him.
  • Tayler uses videos and reminders to help Drew understand and feel connected to his dad during deployment.
  • The video highlights the emotional challenges faced by military families when a family member is deployed.
  • Tayler addressed negative comments on the video, emphasizing the commitment and sacrifice involved in her husband's role.

Source Verification

New Pentagon policy sends "message of intimidation," press group says

New Pentagon policy sends "message of intimidation," press group says

Summary

The Department of Defense has introduced new rules that affect journalists' access to Pentagon facilities. These rules require reporters to agree not to gather information without official approval, leading to concerns that it might restrict press freedom.

Key Facts

  • The Pentagon has released new rules for journalists covering its activities.
  • Journalists must now sign an agreement not to gather unapproved information.
  • The Pentagon Press Association believes this policy may limit press freedom.
  • The updated rules could lead to journalists losing access based on their reporting.
  • The Department of Defense argues the changes are to update security measures.
  • Pentagon spokesperson states the changes are part of a negotiation process.
  • The Department emphasizes that access to the Pentagon is controlled and not a right.

Source Verification

Verizon Outage Map Shows Where Service is Down Across US

Verizon Outage Map Shows Where Service is Down Across US

Summary

Verizon customers across the United States experienced outages with their mobile and internet services early Thursday morning. The disruptions were reported in several major cities including New York, Boston, and Chicago.

Key Facts

  • Verizon outages occurred early on Thursday morning.
  • Downdetector is a website that tracks service interruptions and reported on the outages.
  • The outage affected cities such as New York, Boston, Washington D.C., Chicago, Seattle, Phoenix, and Atlanta.
  • Reports of disruptions peaked at 0.56 a.m. ET, with 1,244 outage reports.
  • About 50% of the problems were related to Verizon cell phone services.
  • Approximately 32% of issues involved Verizon 5G home internet.
  • The issue is still developing, with updates to come.

Source Verification

Katie Porter Lashes Out at Staffer in Video: 'Get Out of My F***ing Shot'

Katie Porter Lashes Out at Staffer in Video: 'Get Out of My F***ing Shot'

Summary

A video has surfaced showing Katie Porter, a candidate for California governor, using harsh language towards a staff member during a video call. This incident comes as Porter faces criticism from another video where she had a tense exchange with a CBS reporter. Porter's campaign claims she remains a leading candidate despite these controversies.

Key Facts

  • Katie Porter is running for governor of California in the 2026 election.
  • A video from July 2021 shows her using strong language toward a staff member during a video call.
  • The staff member tried to correct an error in Porter's talk.
  • Porter is known for her direct style and advocacy in politics.
  • The criticism follows another video showing an awkward interview with a CBS journalist.
  • Porter’s Democratic rivals have used these incidents to question her suitability as a candidate.
  • California’s primary will be in June 2026, and the general election on November 3, 2026.

Source Verification

Scoop: Mamdani ally weighs challenging Hakeem Jeffries

Scoop: Mamdani ally weighs challenging Hakeem Jeffries

Summary

New York City Council member Chi Ossé is considering running against House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries in a Democratic primary. This potential challenge highlights a growing divide within the Democratic Party between progressive and established members. Ossé's discussions with progressive groups are in early stages, but they show interest in challenging Jeffries' position.

Key Facts

  • Chi Ossé is a New York City Council member and ally of Zohran Mamdani.
  • Ossé is considering a run against House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries in the Democratic primary.
  • Mamdani and Jeffries have political differences, with Mamdani not receiving Jeffries' endorsement for New York's mayoral race.
  • Some progressive groups have shown interest in supporting Ossé's possible campaign.
  • Progressive leaders have previously eyed challenging Jeffries but lacked a candidate to support.
  • Discussions about Ossé's potential campaign are still in the early stages.
  • There is a wider debate in the Democratic Party about leadership and generational change.
  • Jeffries' team has warned of potential retaliation against those planning to challenge him.

Source Verification

Senate rejects effort to curb Trump's power to target alleged drug boats

Senate rejects effort to curb Trump's power to target alleged drug boats

Summary

The U.S. Senate voted against a measure to limit President Trump's authority to target drug boats in the Caribbean. The proposal was part of an ongoing debate about the president's power to conduct military actions without Congress's approval.

Key Facts

  • The Senate vote was 48-51, failing to pass the measure to restrict President Trump's military actions.
  • Senators Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski supported the measure alongside Democrats, with Sen. John Fetterman being the only Democrat who voted against it.
  • The measure aimed to limit President Trump's authority to strike alleged drug traffickers' boats without Congress's approval.
  • The resolution was led by Senators Tim Kaine, Adam Schiff, and Rand Paul.
  • This vote follows a previous Senate rejection of a similar measure concerning Trump's military actions against Iran.
  • Critics argue that Trump's actions lack oversight and congressional authorization.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the strategy to target drug cartels with Republican senators.
  • Some Republicans, like Speaker Mike Johnson, question the constitutionality of the War Powers Act used to propose these limitations.

Source Verification

Ciattarelli, Sherrill Spar Over Opioids, Navy Graduation in Final Debate

Ciattarelli, Sherrill Spar Over Opioids, Navy Graduation in Final Debate

Summary

Mikie Sherrill and Jack Ciattarelli debated as they compete for New Jersey's governor role. They argued about the opioid crisis, military records, and President Trump's influence. The election is watched closely to gauge support for President Trump's administration.

Key Facts

  • The debate was between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli.
  • They are running for the governor position in New Jersey.
  • Sherrill accused Ciattarelli of profiting from the opioid crisis through his former business.
  • Ciattarelli denied the claim and blamed the fentanyl crisis on former President Joe Biden's policies.
  • Ciattarelli referred to Sherrill's past involvement in a military academy scandal.
  • Both candidates discussed their positions on President Trump, with Ciattarelli expressing support.
  • The debate also touched on the impact of the federal government shutdown on a key New Jersey infrastructure project.
  • The New Jersey gubernatorial election is significant in understanding voter support for President Trump's administration.

Source Verification

Scoop: Senate Republicans eye piecemeal government reopening

Scoop: Senate Republicans eye piecemeal government reopening

Summary

Senate Majority Leader John Thune is thinking about bringing specific funding bills, like one for the Defense Department, to a vote as a way to reopen the government. Bipartisan talks for a temporary solution are stuck, so this piecemeal approach is another option. This strategy would require support from both parties to succeed.

Key Facts

  • Senate Majority Leader John Thune is considering voting on individual funding bills, such as one for the Pentagon.
  • Current talks to reopen the government with a short-term bill are not progressing.
  • Bringing single bills to the floor is complicated but could be a way to reopen parts of the government.
  • Many Republicans support the idea of passing finished bills to reopen the government.
  • Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins supports moving forward with this strategy.
  • There is concern about whether troops will get paid, as passing a full defense bill soon is unlikely.
  • Democrats would need to decide whether to support funding for military pay separately from other bills.
  • Speaker Mike Johnson has not recalled House members to vote specifically on a military pay bill.

Source Verification

Republicans Vote Down Bid to Block Trump’s Strikes on Alleged Drug Boats

Republicans Vote Down Bid to Block Trump’s Strikes on Alleged Drug Boats

Summary

Senate Republicans blocked a proposal to stop the U.S. military from striking boats suspected of drug trafficking off Venezuela's coast. The Trump administration conducted strikes on at least four boats since early September, leading to deaths and increased tensions with Venezuela. A resolution that sought to limit these military actions failed in the Senate with a 48-51 vote.

Key Facts

  • Senate Republicans stopped a measure to prevent U.S. strikes on drug-trafficking boats near Venezuela.
  • President Trump’s administration claims four strikes have occurred since September 2.
  • These strikes killed at least 21 people and increased tensions with Venezuela.
  • Democrats pushed for a vote on these strikes based on the War Powers Act but lost 48-51.
  • Two Republicans supported the measure, while one Democrat opposed it.
  • The resolution aimed to require Congress's approval before U.S. military actions against non-state groups involved in illegal drug activities.
  • Concerns were raised about the lack of information on the necessity and legality of the strikes.
  • Colombia's President said a “war scenario” is unfolding in the Caribbean, claiming a boat with Colombian citizens was targeted.

Source Verification

Too-loud ads annoying you while streaming? California's put a stop to  that

Too-loud ads annoying you while streaming? California's put a stop to that

Summary

A new law in California requires streaming services to ensure their commercials are not louder than the shows viewers are watching. This state law extends a federal rule, originally aimed at broadcast TV and radio ads, to also cover streaming platforms. Starting July 1, 2026, streaming services must meet this requirement to address complaints about loud ads.

Key Facts

  • California passed a law to prevent commercials from being louder than regular video content on streaming services.
  • The law builds on a 2010 federal law that applies to TV and radio ads.
  • California's rule will take effect on July 1, 2026.
  • The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has received thousands of complaints about loud streaming ads.
  • Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu are headquartered in California.
  • The entertainment industry initially opposed the law, stating it is hard to manage ad volumes on various devices.
  • The law was modified to stop individuals from suing streaming services over loud ads.
  • Streaming representatives like Disney and Netflix no longer oppose the amended law.

Source Verification

Chief Justice Roberts Warns of 'Potential Disaster' in Supreme Court Case

Chief Justice Roberts Warns of 'Potential Disaster' in Supreme Court Case

Summary

Chief Justice John Roberts warned of potential problems if a candidate's electoral success influences their ability to challenge mail-in ballot rules. The Supreme Court is reviewing an Illinois law that accepts late mail-in ballots. The outcome of the case could significantly affect election litigation.

Key Facts

  • Chief Justice John Roberts expressed concern about candidates' ability to challenge election rules based on vote counts.
  • The case involves an Illinois law that allows counting mail-in ballots received after Election Day.
  • U.S. Representative Michael Bost filed the lawsuit, claiming the law violates federal election timing.
  • Illinois officials argue that candidates must show the law could cause them to lose to have a case.
  • Some justices worry that decisions could push courts into making political judgments during elections.
  • Justice Brett Kavanaugh warned about invalidating votes cast after elections if challenges arise.
  • The Supreme Court is expected to make a decision by June.
  • The outcome could impact how election-related lawsuits are handled in the future.

Source Verification

Escaped New Orleans inmate captured after 5 months on the run

Escaped New Orleans inmate captured after 5 months on the run

Summary

A man who escaped from a jail in New Orleans was caught after five months on the run. Derrick Groves, the last of ten escapees, was found in Atlanta, Georgia, hiding in a crawl space. He had been serving a life sentence for murder and will face more charges for his escape.

Key Facts

  • Ten inmates escaped from a Louisiana jail in May by breaking a toilet off the wall.
  • Derrick Groves, the last escapee, was captured in Atlanta after five months.
  • Police used gas canisters to flush Groves out of his hiding spot in a house.
  • Groves was caught hiding in a crawl space within the house.
  • He was serving a life sentence for second degree murder and other charges.
  • The escape was helped by jail staffing problems and building flaws.
  • Most of the escaped inmates were recaptured soon after their escape.
  • Groves will face extra charges due to his escape and will be sent back to Louisiana.

Source Verification

Trump calls to jail Chicago mayor, Illinois governor in immigration dispute

Trump calls to jail Chicago mayor, Illinois governor in immigration dispute

Summary

President Donald Trump has asked for the arrest of Chicago’s mayor and Illinois’ governor because they oppose his immigration enforcement actions. Armed troops have been sent to Illinois to support Trump's plan to deport many immigrants, leading to protests and legal battles. Local leaders claim they didn't get any advance notice about the military presence and are now challenging its legality in court.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker jailed for opposing his deportation efforts.
  • Armed troops have been deployed in Illinois to assist with immigration enforcement operations led by ICE.
  • The actions have led to protests and rights abuse allegations from local residents.
  • Chicago has been declared a hotspot for federal immigration enforcement, with recent clashes between agents and protesters.
  • Illinois and Chicago officials are seeking a court order to stop the National Guard deployment, arguing it may be illegal.
  • Governor Pritzker criticized the presence of military forces in Illinois, labeling it as a step towards authoritarianism.
  • President Trump's immigration plan aims to remove large numbers of immigrants, which he describes as fulfilling a campaign promise.
  • A federal judge in Oregon has previously blocked similar troop deployments, questioning the legality and necessity.

Source Verification

Shutdown tensions cause clashes to erupt on Capitol Hill: "You're an embarrassment"

Shutdown tensions cause clashes to erupt on Capitol Hill: "You're an embarrassment"

Summary

Congress members are having heated arguments due to a government shutdown. Lawmakers from both parties are upset and fighting among themselves about how to reopen the government and pass important bills. Some argue about military pay and health care bill extensions, while others focus on internal party disagreements.

Key Facts

  • Congress is currently in a government shutdown, causing tensions among lawmakers.
  • Lawmakers from the same political parties are also arguing, not just across party lines.
  • Speaker Mike Johnson faces pressure from some Republicans to hold votes on government funding matters, including military pay.
  • Democrats are divided over whether to extend certain health care credits temporarily or permanently.
  • Two Democratic Senators confronted the Speaker over delays related to swearing in a new member due to the shutdown.
  • Republican Rep. Mike Lawler urged House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to agree to a temporary health care bill extension, leading to a heated exchange.
  • Some Democrats attempted unsuccessfully to have a new Representative sworn in during a brief House session.
  • Internal disputes also exist among Republicans regarding government funding and military pay, and among Democrats about health care credit extensions.

Source Verification

Mike Johnson faces growing internal revolt over shutdown

Mike Johnson faces growing internal revolt over shutdown

Summary

Some House Republicans are upset with Speaker Mike Johnson for keeping the House on break during a government shutdown. There's pressure on Johnson to bring the House back to work, especially to address military pay and other legislative matters. The situation is causing tension within the Republican party.

Key Facts

  • The government shutdown is ongoing, and some House Republicans are frustrated with Speaker Mike Johnson.
  • Speaker Johnson has decided to keep the House on break, which is causing concern among some lawmakers.
  • There is a bill proposed by Rep. Jen Kiggans to ensure military personnel continue to get paid during the shutdown.
  • Some lawmakers, like Rep. Thomas Massie, want the House to vote on releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files.
  • Other Republicans like Rep. John Joyce and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene expressed frustration about the recess and not addressing important issues.
  • The House has not voted since September 19, when a temporary funding measure was passed.
  • Speaker Johnson stated he will bring the House back when the Senate takes action on the shutdown.
  • Critics say keeping the House on break could help avoid a vote on controversial issues like the Epstein files.

Source Verification

How air traffic controllers could help end the shutdown

How air traffic controllers could help end the shutdown

Summary

Air traffic controller shortages are causing delays and may pressure Congress to end the government shutdown. Controllers are working without pay, worsening an existing staffing issue and risking flight safety. Sick-out actions by controllers highlight the fragile state of the aviation system.

Key Facts

  • Air traffic controllers are working without pay due to the government shutdown.
  • Shortages have led to flight delays in major U.S. cities like Chicago, Nashville, and Denver.
  • Some airports, like Hollywood Burbank, had no air traffic control for several hours.
  • "Sick-outs" are being used as a form of protest instead of striking, which is illegal.
  • The National Air Traffic Controllers Association warns that staffing shortages impact safety and efficiency.
  • Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy accused Democrats of causing the shutdown but gave inaccurate salary information about controllers.
  • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has starting salaries for controllers between $50,000-$60,000, not $180,000.

Source Verification

IRS tells employees furlough backpay guaranteed, while WH counters in memo

IRS tells employees furlough backpay guaranteed, while WH counters in memo

Summary

The IRS told its employees that they are legally required to receive back pay for the period they are furloughed during a government shutdown, according to a memo. This statement contrasts with a White House memo that interpreted the law differently, suggesting back pay isn't guaranteed without specific appropriations by Congress. This issue involves discussions on how to apply the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019.

Key Facts

  • The IRS memo states that federal workers must be paid for furlough periods during a government shutdown.
  • This information contradicts a White House memo suggesting that back pay requires specific Congressional appropriations.
  • The Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019, signed by President Trump, is at the center of this debate.
  • The IRS Human Capital Officer explained that payment should be made at the earliest possible date after the shutdown ends.
  • Some politicians and legal analysts disagree on the interpretation of this law.
  • About half of the IRS workforce is furloughed due to the government shutdown.
  • Most IRS operations are closed during the government funding lapse.

Source Verification

At the Supreme Court, the case of the candidate who sued, even though he won

At the Supreme Court, the case of the candidate who sued, even though he won

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court heard a case involving Illinois voting rules, where a candidate, Rep. Michael Bost, sued over mail-in ballot regulations even though he won his election. The court questioned whether Bost could show personal harm from the rules and discussed the broader implications of letting candidates easily challenge election procedures.

Key Facts

  • The case is about Illinois voting rules that allow counting mail-in ballots received up to 14 days after Election Day.
  • Rep. Michael Bost, who won his election, challenged the rule, claiming it lowered his margin of victory.
  • Lower courts ruled against Bost, saying he wasn't personally harmed by the regulation.
  • Bost argued the prolonged vote count required him to pay staffers, impacting him financially.
  • Justices questioned the validity of Bost's claims, noting he wasn't directly harmed.
  • The case also explored if any candidate, regardless of their chance of winning, should challenge election rules.
  • The court raised concerns about potential bias if candidates frequently sued over election procedures.
  • Discussions included whether the rules disadvantage Republican candidates and favor Democrats.

Source Verification