The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Trump claims Pulte will investigate ‘rigged elections’ in temporary role

Trump claims Pulte will investigate ‘rigged elections’ in temporary role

June 04, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

President Donald Trump appointed Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence for a short time. Trump said Pulte will investigate "rigged elections," but Pulte does not have experience in intelligence work. The appointment has faced criticism from both Republicans and Democrats.

Key Facts

  • Bill Pulte was named acting director of national intelligence by President Trump.
  • Pulte will serve temporarily and is not expected to be permanent in the role.
  • President Trump claims Pulte will look into claims of rigged elections, without providing proof.
  • Pulte currently leads the Federal Housing Finance Agency and has no background in intelligence.
  • Both Republican and Democratic leaders have criticized Pulte’s nomination due to lack of experience.
  • Senator John Thune, a Republican, said the intelligence director should be a professional, not "weaponized."
  • Senator Mark Warner, a Democrat, said Pulte may use government power for political reasons.
  • Pulte previously made controversial and politically charged mortgage fraud allegations against public officials.
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Guardian World Guardian US
6/04: CBS Evening News

6/04: CBS Evening News

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump said he will nominate Todd Blanche to be the head of the police. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) shared new pictures about a near-accident at Newark airport.

Key Facts

  • President Trump plans to nominate Todd Blanche as the top police official.
  • The role Todd Blanche is nominated for is sometimes called the "top cop."
  • The NTSB released new images related to a near-accident at Newark airport.
  • The near-disaster involved aircraft or airport safety concerns.
  • CBS Evening News covered these updates on June 4th.
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CBS News
US sanctions Cuban president and Castro relatives in latest pressure campaign

US sanctions Cuban president and Castro relatives in latest pressure campaign

June 04, 2026 • France24

Summary

The United States government has imposed new economic sanctions on Cuba’s President Miguel Diaz-Canel, his family, and members of the Castro family, including relatives of former President Raul Castro. These sanctions are part of an ongoing U.S. effort, led by President Donald Trump, to increase pressure on Cuba’s government and economy.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Treasury Department announced fresh sanctions on Cuba’s current president and his immediate family.
  • Sanctions also target Raul Castro’s son and grandson, who remain influential in Cuba.
  • The Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces and other Cuban entities were included in the sanctions.
  • President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Cuba and has suggested possible military intervention.
  • The U.S. already enforces a decades-old embargo on Cuba.
  • There is a de facto fuel blockade contributing to Cuba’s energy crisis and economic troubles.
  • Earlier in 2025, the U.S. restricted visas for Cuban officials, including President Diaz-Canel.
  • The U.S. has indicated Cuba might be the next country to face major pressure following Venezuela.
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France24
ICE arrest in a rural Montana town prompts a conservative community to take action

ICE arrest in a rural Montana town prompts a conservative community to take action

June 04, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

In the small town of Froid, Montana, longtime resident detention by federal immigration agents caused concern in this rural and conservative community. Although the town has strongly supported President Trump in past elections, the recent arrest prompted local people to respond and take action.

Key Facts

  • Froid is a small, rural town in northeastern Montana.
  • The community in Froid is deeply conservative.
  • The town has supported President Trump in all his previous presidential campaigns.
  • Federal immigration agents arrested a longtime resident of Froid earlier this year.
  • This arrest led the local community to push back and take action in response.
  • The information is reported by Montana PBS and journalist Matt Standal.
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PBS NewsHour
Here's why election results in the second largest US city are so slow

Here's why election results in the second largest US city are so slow

June 04, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Election results in Los Angeles and across California are slow because the state counts many mail-in ballots, which take time to sort and verify. California allows ballots to arrive up to a week after election day, and officials have up to 30 days to finish counting all votes.

Key Facts

  • Every registered voter in California receives a mail-in ballot.
  • About 80% of California voters use mail-in ballots.
  • Mail-in ballots are valid if posted by election day and received within seven days after.
  • County officials have up to 30 days after election day to count all ballots.
  • Official results must be reported by July 3, and certified by July 10, 2026.
  • Early results showed Republican Steve Hilton leading in the governor's race with 56% of votes counted.
  • President Trump claims without evidence that Democrats are trying to steal elections in California.
  • California officials say delays are normal and urge patience while votes are counted.
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BBC World
Arizona AG will seek to revive 2020 ‘fake elector’ case

Arizona AG will seek to revive 2020 ‘fake elector’ case

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Arizona’s attorney general’s office plans to seek new charges against people involved in a “fake electors” scheme linked to the 2020 election. This decision comes after the state’s highest court declined to restart the case earlier.

Key Facts

  • The Arizona attorney general’s office wants to bring fresh indictments in the 2020 election “fake electors” case.
  • The case involves a group labeled as “fake electors” who were connected to attempts to challenge the 2020 election results.
  • Arizona’s highest court refused to revive the case before this new move.
  • Attorney General Kris Mayes is leading the effort to return the case to a grand jury.
  • The grand jury will review the evidence to decide if new charges should be filed.
  • The case is part of wider investigations into attempts to change the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.
  • The legal process is ongoing and could lead to formal charges against those involved.
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The Hill
Pentagon hires man who pleaded guilty in Jan. 6 riot for sensitive civilian job

Pentagon hires man who pleaded guilty in Jan. 6 riot for sensitive civilian job

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Elias Irizarry, who pleaded guilty to entering the Capitol during the January 6 riot, now holds a sensitive civilian position in the Defense Department with a top-secret security clearance. He expressed remorse for his actions, was sentenced to 14 days in jail, and was later pardoned by President Trump.

Key Facts

  • Elias Irizarry participated in the January 6 Capitol riot and pleaded guilty to entering a restricted building.
  • He was sentenced to 14 days in jail and expressed strong regret for his actions.
  • President Trump pardoned Irizarry during his second term.
  • Irizarry works as a special assistant in the Defense Department under Assistant Secretary Derrick Anderson.
  • His job involves the Office of Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict policy.
  • He holds a top-secret security clearance despite his involvement in the riot.
  • A Pentagon official described Irizarry as a qualified and patriotic employee.
  • A judge recognized Irizarry’s remorse and background, calling his sentencing one of the hardest among January 6 cases.
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CBS News
'It looks black' - Americans react to Reflecting Pool's completed paint job

'It looks black' - Americans react to Reflecting Pool's completed paint job

June 04, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, DC, has been renovated and filled with water again. President Donald Trump started the project to fix leaks, resurface, and paint the pool, originally estimating $2 million but now expected to cost $13.1 million.

Key Facts

  • The Reflecting Pool renovation began in early April, initiated by President Donald Trump.
  • The project included resurfacing the pool, fixing leaks, and painting it a color called "American flag blue."
  • Water has now started flowing back into the pool after the work was completed.
  • The original estimated cost was $2 million, but federal records now show the cost is expected to be $13.1 million.
  • The new color of the pool has sparked reactions from visitors and Americans who noticed it looks very dark.
  • The Reflecting Pool is a famous landmark near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC.
  • The project took several weeks to complete.
  • The cost increase has been noted as a significant change from the initial projection.
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BBC World BBC US
House passes agriculture and FDA appropriations bill

House passes agriculture and FDA appropriations bill

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The House of Representatives approved an agriculture and FDA funding bill for fiscal year 2027 by a close vote. This is the second spending bill passed by the House this year as part of the process to fund the government.

Key Facts

  • The House passed the agriculture and FDA appropriations bill on a Thursday.
  • The vote was very close, with 213 in favor and 210 against.
  • The bill funds agriculture, rural development, the Food and Drug Administration, and related agencies.
  • This is the second fiscal year 2027 spending bill passed by the House.
  • The bill is part of the annual government funding process.
  • Republican leaders are managing this while handling multiple other legislative priorities.
  • The House is the lower chamber of Congress involved in approving funding bills before they go to the Senate.
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The Hill
Pam Bondi claims Todd Blanche was ‘in charge’ of ‘entire release’ of Epstein files

Pam Bondi claims Todd Blanche was ‘in charge’ of ‘entire release’ of Epstein files

June 04, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Pam Bondi, former U.S. attorney general, told lawmakers that Todd Blanche, President Trump’s nominee for attorney general, was responsible for handling the release of Jeffrey Epstein files at the Justice Department. Bondi said she was not sure how much President Trump knew about Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell before their crimes became public.

Key Facts

  • Todd Blanche, formerly Bondi’s deputy, led the release of the Epstein files at the Justice Department.
  • Blanche is the current acting attorney general and President Trump plans to nominate him permanently.
  • The House committee is investigating the Justice Department’s handling of Epstein-related records.
  • Some lawmakers and survivors criticized the handling of the files, especially redactions and sensitive information disclosures.
  • Bondi said she did not lead every part of the process but praised Blanche’s management of it.
  • Bondi admitted there were errors in redacting some parts of the files but said the department aimed for transparency.
  • Bondi said she learned about Ghislaine Maxwell’s prison transfer after it happened and had no involvement.
  • Bondi stated Maxwell should not receive a pardon.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Sen. Wyden wants to know why Leon Black paid Epstein $170 million for tax planning

Sen. Wyden wants to know why Leon Black paid Epstein $170 million for tax planning

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Senator Ron Wyden is asking a House committee to question billionaire Leon Black about the $170 million he paid Jeffrey Epstein for tax and estate planning between 2012 and 2017. Wyden doubts Black has given a clear explanation for these payments and points to possible links involving hush money and legal settlements related to Epstein.

Key Facts

  • Leon Black paid Jeffrey Epstein $170 million from 2012 to 2017 for tax and estate planning services.
  • Black paid a law firm only $2 million during 2013 and 2014 for similar estate planning work.
  • Senator Ron Wyden asked the House Oversight Committee to question Black about these large payments.
  • Black’s attorney said there is no evidence Black knew about Epstein’s criminal activities.
  • Black requested an internal investigation at his company, Apollo, which found Epstein was paid only for tax and estate planning.
  • Wyden claims Justice Department records suggest Black may have used Epstein to pay hush money to women.
  • An October 2017 email suggests Black transferred money to a woman through Epstein.
  • Black settled with the U.S. Virgin Islands government for $62 million over issues related to Epstein.
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CBS News
Women romantically linked to Platner describe ‘toxic,’ ‘unsettling’ conduct: New York Times

Women romantically linked to Platner describe ‘toxic,’ ‘unsettling’ conduct: New York Times

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Several women who had romantic relationships with Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner told The New York Times that these relationships were uncomfortable and harmful. These accounts add to the challenges Platner is facing during his campaign for the Senate seat.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a Democratic candidate running for the U.S. Senate from Maine.
  • Multiple women have described their past romantic relationships with Platner as upsetting and unhealthy.
  • These reports were published by The New York Times.
  • The stories contribute to ongoing difficulties and scrutiny around Platner’s campaign.
  • The Senate seat Platner seeks has been a long-time goal for Democrats.
  • The exact nature of the past issues Platner faces has not been detailed in this summary.
  • This news comes amid a broader context of political campaigns facing personal scrutiny.
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The Hill
Rogan says ICE deployment sets ‘dangerous precedent’

Rogan says ICE deployment sets ‘dangerous precedent’

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Joe Rogan criticized the Trump administration’s decision to send ICE officers to different parts of the country. He said this action could lead to harmful outcomes for American freedoms if future leaders use it the same way.

Key Facts

  • ICE stands for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a U.S. government agency that enforces immigration laws.
  • The Trump administration deployed ICE officers to multiple locations in the U.S.
  • Joe Rogan expressed concern that this could create a risky example for future government actions.
  • Rogan shared his opinion on his podcast during an episode on Wednesday.
  • He warned that similar actions might threaten free society if used differently by other leaders.
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The Hill
Border czar Tom Homan defends Delaney Hall immigration center, says he had meal there

Border czar Tom Homan defends Delaney Hall immigration center, says he had meal there

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Tom Homan, the White House official in charge of border issues, spoke about the Delaney Hall immigration center in New Jersey. He defended the center and said he had a meal there, responding to concerns about its conditions.

Key Facts

  • Tom Homan is the White House border czar, responsible for border-related policies.
  • The Delaney Hall immigration center is located in New Jersey.
  • The center has faced public criticism and controversy.
  • Homan defended the conditions at the Delaney Hall center.
  • He said he personally ate a meal at the facility.
  • The interview was with CBS News correspondent Camilo Montoya-Galvez.
  • The discussion focuses on immigration and border enforcement.
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CBS News
Kennedy Center moves to erase Trump references after judge said they were illegally added

Kennedy Center moves to erase Trump references after judge said they were illegally added

June 04, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A federal judge ruled that adding President Donald Trump’s name to the Kennedy Center was illegal and stopped plans to close it for renovations. The Kennedy Center is now removing references to President Trump from its materials while considering legal options.

Key Facts

  • The Kennedy Center had added President Trump’s name, which a judge ruled was done illegally.
  • The judge also blocked planned renovations that would have closed the center starting in July.
  • The Kennedy Center must remove Trump’s name from email signatures, letterhead, and other documents by June 12.
  • President Trump responded on social media, criticizing the judge and predicted the center might close permanently.
  • The ruling affects President Trump’s efforts to change Washington landmarks during his second term.
  • Other changes under President Trump include renovating the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and plans for a new arch near the Lincoln Memorial.
  • The Kennedy Center is reviewing legal options to continue the planned upgrades while complying with the court order.
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AP News
WATCH: Capital Planning Commission seeks more info on proposed 'Trump arch' after public comment session

WATCH: Capital Planning Commission seeks more info on proposed 'Trump arch' after public comment session

June 04, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The National Capital Planning Commission is reviewing a proposal to build a 250-foot arch at an entrance to Washington, D.C., as requested by President Donald Trump. The commission asked for more information about how the arch might affect air travel and local traffic before making a final decision.

Key Facts

  • The proposed arch would be located between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
  • The arch is 250 feet tall.
  • The Department of the Interior submitted the application for the arch.
  • The National Capital Planning Commission voted to request more details about construction and traffic impacts.
  • Around 20 people gave public comments during a nearly three-hour hearing.
  • Many public commenters raised concerns about the arch’s design and effects.
  • The arch is one of several projects by President Trump to leave a mark on Washington, D.C.
  • The commission members mostly supported gathering more information rather than rejecting or approving the project outright.
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PBS NewsHour
Full interview: Tom Homan on New Jersey ICE facility allegations, World Cup, more

Full interview: Tom Homan on New Jersey ICE facility allegations, World Cup, more

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Tom Homan, who works with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), spoke about the Delaney Hall detention center in New Jersey, ICE’s security duties during the World Cup, and possible immigration enforcement actions in New York. The interview focused on ICE's operations and responsibilities in these areas.

Key Facts

  • Tom Homan is a border official connected to ICE.
  • He discussed a detention center called Delaney Hall in New Jersey.
  • ICE has security responsibilities during the World Cup event.
  • There are possible future immigration enforcement efforts planned for New York.
  • The conversation took place in an interview with CBS News reporter Camilo Montoya-Galvez.
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CBS News
U.S. sanctions Cuban President Díaz-Canel in latest move pressuring island's leadership

U.S. sanctions Cuban President Díaz-Canel in latest move pressuring island's leadership

June 04, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The U.S. government has added Cuba's President Miguel Díaz-Canel, his wife, and three others to its sanctions list. These measures follow expanded sanctions introduced by President Donald Trump targeting Cuba's leadership and economy.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel and five others.
  • The sanctions include Díaz-Canel’s wife and Alejandro Castro Espín, son of former Cuban President Raúl Castro.
  • Alejandro Castro Espín was an advisor to Cuba's Defense and National Security Commission.
  • Sanctions expanded after President Donald Trump issued an executive order targeting Cuba.
  • The U.S. has threatened military action and imposed an energy blockade cutting fuel shipments to Cuba.
  • These actions have contributed to blackouts, food shortages, and economic problems in Cuba.
  • The U.S. also filed criminal charges against Raúl Castro, Cuba's former leader.
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PBS NewsHour
Epstein Files Update: GOP, Democrats Feud Over Whether Pam Bondi Lied

Epstein Files Update: GOP, Democrats Feud Over Whether Pam Bondi Lied

June 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Pam Bondi, President Donald Trump’s former attorney general, testified before the House Oversight Committee about how the Justice Department handled documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. Her statements about who was responsible for releasing the files have caused disagreement between Republicans and Democrats in Congress.

Key Facts

  • Pam Bondi gave a closed-door interview about the Justice Department’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files.
  • Bondi said Todd Blanche, Trump’s nominee for attorney general and acting attorney general at the time, was in charge of releasing the Epstein-related documents.
  • The Epstein Files Transparency Act covers about 6 million documents, but about half have not been released yet.
  • Bondi said the remaining unreleased documents are either duplicates or protected information.
  • Democrats argue Bondi’s testimony conflicts with her earlier public statements and that the Justice Department made errors exposing victim information.
  • Republicans say Bondi praised Blanche’s leadership and did not blame him for mistakes.
  • Bondi refused to discuss her conversations with President Trump, citing legal privileges.
  • The disagreement has led to calls for more hearings and for Blanche to testify about the document release process.
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Newsweek
Kennedy Center begins process of removing Trump references after judge said it was illegally added

Kennedy Center begins process of removing Trump references after judge said it was illegally added

June 04, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

The Kennedy Center is removing references to President Donald Trump after a federal judge ruled that adding his name was illegal. The center must complete these changes by June 12 and is also reviewing legal options regarding renovations and recognition of President Trump’s role.

Key Facts

  • The Kennedy Center added President Trump’s name to the venue illegally, according to a federal judge.
  • The center is removing references to President Trump from email signatures, letterhead, and other documents.
  • The venue’s official name will return to “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts” or simply “Kennedy Center.”
  • The changes must be finished by June 12.
  • The judge also blocked planned major renovations at the center scheduled to start in July.
  • President Donald Trump said he would back away from the renovation plans.
  • The center is considering legal options to both comply with the court order and recognize President Trump’s leadership.
  • This issue arose during President Donald Trump’s second term, after which the center was renamed.
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ABC News