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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Republicans urge investigation into two men accused of abuse by Epstein assistant

Republicans urge investigation into two men accused of abuse by Epstein assistant

June 04, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Republican lawmakers have asked the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate sexual assault claims made against hairstylist Frédéric Fekkai and former Miami Beach mayor Philip Levine. These allegations come from Sarah Kellen, a former assistant to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who also said she was abused by Epstein himself.

Key Facts

  • Sarah Kellen, Epstein’s former assistant, said she was sexually and psychologically abused by Epstein and also accused Fekkai and Levine of sexual assault in the early 2000s.
  • The House oversight committee, led by Republican James Comer, referred these allegations to the Department of Justice for investigation.
  • Neither Fekkai nor Levine has been charged with any crimes related to Epstein. Both deny the accusations.
  • Epstein died in 2019 in jail while awaiting trial for sex trafficking.
  • Levine's name appears over 600 times in Epstein-related files released earlier in 2024, including emails with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.
  • Lawmakers describe Fekkai as a close friend of Epstein and say he helped with grooming by providing salon services to women on Epstein’s orders.
  • Fekkai’s representatives deny all allegations and say he never abused or was involved in illegal behavior.
  • Levine’s spokesperson states that his client had only one brief, consensual encounter with another adult and denies the allegations of misconduct.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Colo. Court of Appeals reverses former paramedics' convictions in McClain death

Colo. Court of Appeals reverses former paramedics' convictions in McClain death

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The Colorado Court of Appeals reversed the criminally negligent homicide convictions of two former paramedics involved in Elijah McClain’s death and ordered a new trial. One paramedic’s second-degree assault conviction was upheld, but his prison sentence was reduced to probation.

Key Facts

  • Elijah McClain died after police restrained him and paramedics injected him with ketamine in August 2019.
  • The paramedics are named Jeremy Cooper and Peter Cichuniec.
  • Both paramedics were convicted of criminally negligent homicide in December 2023.
  • The Court of Appeals reversed these convictions and called for a new trial on those charges.
  • The court confirmed Cichuniec’s conviction for second-degree assault related to giving drugs unlawfully.
  • In September 2024, Cichuniec’s five-year prison sentence was canceled and changed to probation.
  • Body camera footage showed the paramedics injecting McClain.
  • McClain suffered cardiac arrest in an ambulance and died three days after the incident.
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CBS News
Let’s get America building again

Let’s get America building again

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The Trump administration is marking important anniversaries related to U.S. roads and the country’s founding by promoting a major effort to improve infrastructure. Since the start of President Trump’s term, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has awarded 888 grants and provided $8.4 billion for construction and repair projects.

Key Facts

  • The Interstate Highway System is celebrating its 70th anniversary.
  • Route 66, a famous historic road, is 100 years old.
  • The United States celebrated its 250th birthday.
  • The Trump administration is focusing on rebuilding and improving infrastructure.
  • The Federal Highway Administration has given out 888 grants since President Trump took office.
  • These grants total $8.4 billion in competitive funding.
  • The funding supports road building and infrastructure projects across the country.
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The Hill
Moments of terror after deadly shooting at high school graduation

Moments of terror after deadly shooting at high school graduation

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

One person was killed and three others were injured during a shooting at a high school graduation ceremony in Northern California. Police and officials responded to the incident, which caused fear and chaos at the event.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at a high school graduation ceremony.
  • It took place in Northern California.
  • One person died because of the shooting.
  • Three people were hurt during the event.
  • Authorities responded to the shooting at the graduation.
  • The incident caused panic among attendees.
  • The report comes from CBS News, with coverage by Jarred Hill.
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CBS News
Former Trump spokesperson: ‘Misogynistic attacks’ on Kaitlan Collins ‘disgusting’

Former Trump spokesperson: ‘Misogynistic attacks’ on Kaitlan Collins ‘disgusting’

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Sarah Matthews, who once worked as a spokesperson for President Trump, criticized him for making harsh comments about CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins. She said Collins is a skilled journalist and suggested that President Trump targets her more than other reporters.

Key Facts

  • Sarah Matthews previously worked as a spokesperson for President Trump.
  • She spoke out against President Trump's recent comments about Kaitlan Collins.
  • Kaitlan Collins is a reporter for CNN.
  • Matthews described Collins as a very good and talented reporter.
  • Matthews believes President Trump attacks Collins more strongly than other journalists.
  • The criticism focuses on what Matthews calls "misogynistic attacks," meaning unfair attacks based on gender.
  • The issue highlights tensions between President Trump and some members of the media.
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The Hill
Todd Blanche reacts to Trump's expected attorney general nomination

Todd Blanche reacts to Trump's expected attorney general nomination

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Todd Blanche reacted to news that President Donald Trump is expected to nominate him as attorney general. CBS News reporter Weijia Jiang covered the response.

Key Facts

  • Todd Blanche is expected to be nominated as attorney general by President Trump.
  • The attorney general leads the Justice Department.
  • CBS News covered Blanche’s reaction to this expected nomination.
  • Weijia Jiang reported on the story for CBS News.
  • The news appeared on the CBS News app and website.
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CBS News
South Carolina draws attention with competitive GOP primary for governor

South Carolina draws attention with competitive GOP primary for governor

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The Republican primary for governor in South Carolina is drawing much attention. Several well-known GOP candidates are competing to replace Governor Henry McMaster, who cannot run again due to term limits.

Key Facts

  • South Carolina’s governor, Henry McMaster, is term-limited and cannot run for re-election.
  • The Republican primary is open and highly competitive.
  • Key GOP candidates include Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, Representative Nancy Mace, Attorney General Alan Wilson, and Representative Ralph Norman.
  • South Carolina is considered a reliably conservative state.
  • The race is closely watched as it will determine the next governor.
  • The website 270toWin is tracking and aggregating details about the race.
  • The primary reflects competition within the GOP to lead the state government.
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The Hill
These 7 GOP Senators Are Most Likely to Rebel Against Trump

These 7 GOP Senators Are Most Likely to Rebel Against Trump

June 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A group of Republican senators is increasingly opposing President Donald Trump on various issues as the 2026 midterm elections get closer. Some senators have already shown a pattern of disagreement, while others oppose him on key topics or worry about their chances of reelection if they stay loyal.

Key Facts

  • Senate Republican leaders worry that supporting President Trump might hurt their chance to keep the Senate majority.
  • Lisa Murkowski from Alaska is known for frequently opposing President Trump, including voting to convict him after January 6.
  • Susan Collins from Maine has opposed Trump on Medicaid cuts, war powers, and nomination votes; she is facing a tough reelection fight.
  • Thom Tillis from North Carolina criticized Trump’s policies and decisions, blocked some administration nominees, and will not run for reelection.
  • These senators’ opposition falls into three groups: regular critics, issue-based dissenters, and those distancing themselves for political reasons.
  • Murkowski is not up for reelection until 2028, reducing President Trump’s influence over her.
  • Collins is in a competitive race in a state that President Trump lost, motivating her to act independently.
  • Tillis has become one of the most vocal Republican critics of the Trump administration since announcing his retirement.
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Newsweek
John Thune breaks with Trump on DNI pick Bill Pulte, weaponization fund

John Thune breaks with Trump on DNI pick Bill Pulte, weaponization fund

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senator John Thune has disagreed with President Donald Trump on his choice for the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and on a fund related to weaponization. This shows that leadership can include speaking out even when it means opposing the president.

Key Facts

  • John Thune is a U.S. senator.
  • Thune disagreed with President Trump's pick for Director of National Intelligence.
  • Thune also spoke out against a specific fund about weaponization.
  • Leadership can mean voicing concerns, not just voting.
  • This disagreement is notable within U.S. domestic political discussions.
  • President Donald Trump is currently serving his second term.
  • The issue highlights different opinions within the same political party.
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The Hill
New York Democrats advance redistricting ballot measure, tee up second vote

New York Democrats advance redistricting ballot measure, tee up second vote

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

New York Democrats approved a measure to change how congressional district lines are drawn in the state. This change aims to make it easier for Democrats to redraw the map before the 2028 elections.

Key Facts

  • New York Democrats advanced a ballot measure on redistricting.
  • The measure would make it easier for Democrats to redraw congressional boundaries.
  • The state passed a constitutional amendment to keep the independent redistricting commission.
  • The amendment also changes the rules for drawing district maps.
  • This process affects how districts are shaped for the 2028 elections.
  • The measure now requires a second vote before it becomes official.
  • The goal is to create a congressional map more favorable to Democrats.
  • Redistricting is the process of redrawing political boundaries for elections.
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The Hill
Cassidy slams RFK Jr. over resurgence in vaccine-preventable diseases

Cassidy slams RFK Jr. over resurgence in vaccine-preventable diseases

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senator Bill Cassidy blamed Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for a rise in diseases that can be prevented by vaccines. Cassidy shared a news report saying hospitals are seeing more cases of these illnesses now.

Key Facts

  • Senator Bill Cassidy is from Louisiana and is a Republican.
  • He criticized HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. publicly.
  • The criticism was about an increase in illnesses that vaccines can prevent.
  • Cassidy used the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his views.
  • A New York Times article reported that hospitals are treating more people with vaccine-preventable diseases.
  • Doctors report they often see these diseases more frequently now.
  • The article links the increase in disease cases to policies or statements made by Secretary Kennedy.
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The Hill
Liberal ‘experts’ lied about racism and protesting during COVID — remember?

Liberal ‘experts’ lied about racism and protesting during COVID — remember?

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The article discusses how some experts were perceived to have misled the public about racism and protests during the COVID-19 pandemic. It suggests that such actions contributed to a decline in trust toward experts.

Key Facts

  • The article addresses public trust in experts.
  • It focuses on claims about racism and protests during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • It implies that some experts provided misleading information.
  • This misleading information is linked to lower trust in expert opinions.
  • The article uses the term "liberal experts" to describe those it criticizes.
  • It mentions COVID-19 as the context for protests and racism discussions.
  • The overall tone highlights concerns over truth and credibility.
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The Hill
Government information gathering and sharing are in peril

Government information gathering and sharing are in peril

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The Trump administration is planning a rule that would require all federal workers to sign a non-disclosure agreement. This plan has drawn criticism because some groups say it threatens free speech rights and government transparency. The situation is also affected by fewer government workers and more political influence in federal jobs.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration wants federal employees to sign a non-disclosure agreement.
  • This agreement would limit what workers can say publicly about their jobs.
  • Free speech and open government groups oppose the plan.
  • Critics say the rule could violate the First Amendment, which protects free speech.
  • At the same time, the federal workforce is shrinking due to cuts.
  • Political leaders are increasing control over federal workers.
  • These changes could reduce government transparency and accountability.
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The Hill
Marines retire Harrier ‘jump jet’

Marines retire Harrier ‘jump jet’

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The U.S. Marine Corps held a ceremony to retire the AV-8B Harrier II jet, which can take off and land like a helicopter. This event marked the end of the jet's use by the Marine Corps as the last unit flew their final missions.

Key Facts

  • The AV-8B Harrier II is a fighter jet that can take off and land vertically (like a helicopter).
  • The jet was officially retired in a ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
  • Over 5,000 people attended the retirement ceremony.
  • The Harrier has been used by the U.S. Marine Corps for several decades.
  • The retirement means the Marine Corps will now rely on other aircraft for similar missions.
  • The event was called a “sundown” ceremony, marking the end of the jet's service.
  • This was the final flight for the last U.S. unit operating the AV-8B Harrier II.
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The Hill
Will Republicans join Democrats in vote against DOJ "anti-weaponization" fund?

Will Republicans join Democrats in vote against DOJ "anti-weaponization" fund?

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The U.S. Senate is holding a long voting session called a "vote-a-rama." One important vote might be on a Justice Department fund meant to stop the government from being unfairly used for political purposes, but a court has temporarily blocked this fund.

Key Facts

  • The Senate is having a "vote-a-rama," which means many quick votes in a row.
  • One key vote could be about the Justice Department’s "anti-weaponization" fund.
  • The fund is designed to prevent political misuse of the Justice Department.
  • A court has temporarily stopped this fund from being used.
  • It is not yet clear if Republican senators will join Democrats in opposing the fund.
  • CBS News reporter Caitlin Huey-Burns provided the information.
  • The discussion is happening during the current Senate session.
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CBS News
Justice Jackson Pens Unanimous Decision Backed by SCOTUS Conservatives

Justice Jackson Pens Unanimous Decision Backed by SCOTUS Conservatives

June 04, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The Supreme Court made a unanimous decision in a patent dispute between Hikma Pharmaceuticals and Amarin Pharma. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson wrote the opinion, which reversed a lower court ruling about when generic drug makers can be sued for patent infringement if they use "skinny labels" to exclude patented uses.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court ruled 9-0 in favor of Hikma Pharmaceuticals.
  • Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson authored the unanimous opinion.
  • The case involved whether generic drug companies can be held liable for patent infringement when they use "skinny labels."
  • "Skinny labels" mean the generic drugs exclude patented uses on their labels to avoid infringement.
  • Amarin Pharma sued Hikma after Hikma tried to sell a generic Vascepa with a skinny label.
  • The lower district court dismissed the case, but an appeals court allowed it to continue before the Supreme Court reversed that decision.
  • The ruling clarifies legal rules for patent claims related to generic drugs under the Hatch-Waxman Act.
  • The case will now return to lower courts for further review using the Supreme Court’s guidance.
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Newsweek
Gabbard says husband’s surgery was successful: ‘Now the recovery begins’

Gabbard says husband’s surgery was successful: ‘Now the recovery begins’

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Tulsi Gabbard said her husband, Abraham, had surgery to remove a rare type of bone cancer called sacral chordoma. The surgery was successful, and now he is in the recovery phase.

Key Facts

  • Tulsi Gabbard resigned from her role as director of national intelligence due to her husband’s diagnosis.
  • Her husband was diagnosed with sacral chordoma, a rare bone cancer.
  • The surgery involved removing the affected bone and surrounding tissue.
  • The operation took several hours to complete.
  • Gabbard shared this update on the social platform X.
  • Her husband is now recovering after the surgery.
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The Hill
Senate drama: Republicans wrestle over Schumer amendment on ‘anti-weaponization’ fund

Senate drama: Republicans wrestle over Schumer amendment on ‘anti-weaponization’ fund

June 04, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senate Republicans are debating how to respond to a Democratic amendment from Senator Chuck Schumer. The amendment would stop the Department of Justice from using its "anti-weaponization" fund. This disagreement has slowed the progress of the Republican budget plan in the Senate.

Key Facts

  • Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer introduced an amendment regarding the Justice Department’s "anti-weaponization" fund.
  • The amendment aims to prevent the fund from being used.
  • Senate Republicans are divided on how to address this amendment.
  • Senator Bill Cassidy is among the Republicans opposing or questioning the amendment.
  • The debate has caused delays in the Senate's work on the Republican budget reconciliation package.
  • The budget reconciliation package is a plan for government spending and policies led by Senate Republicans.
  • The “anti-weaponization” fund is intended to stop government agencies from misusing their power, though details are part of the debate.
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The Hill
Breaking down Todd Blanche's law career as Trump prepares to nominate him for attorney general post

Breaking down Todd Blanche's law career as Trump prepares to nominate him for attorney general post

June 04, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Todd Blanche, who has served as President Donald Trump’s personal lawyer and is currently the acting U.S. attorney general, is expected to be nominated to permanently lead the Justice Department. Sources say President Trump plans to make this nomination official soon.

Key Facts

  • Todd Blanche was President Donald Trump's personal attorney.
  • Blanche is currently the acting attorney general of the United States.
  • President Trump is preparing to nominate Blanche as the permanent attorney general.
  • This nomination would give Blanche a permanent leadership role at the Justice Department.
  • The information comes from sources cited by CBS News.
  • CBS News correspondent Natalie Brand reported on the story.
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CBS News
Trump says he will nominate Todd Blanche to serve as attorney general

Trump says he will nominate Todd Blanche to serve as attorney general

June 04, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump announced he will officially nominate Todd Blanche to be the permanent attorney general. Blanche has served as the acting attorney general and worked closely with Trump’s agenda in the Justice Department.

Key Facts

  • President Trump plans to nominate Todd Blanche as attorney general.
  • Blanche is currently the acting attorney general.
  • He previously worked as President Trump’s personal lawyer.
  • Blanche has been supporting Trump’s policies within the Justice Department.
  • The nomination was announced at a White House event.
  • The formal nomination was expected to happen the day after the announcement.
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PBS NewsHour