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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Why mothers in the U.S. are scaling back on their work lives

September 12, 2025

Summary

Mothers in the U.S. are working less this year. The reasons are more complex than just needing to return to the office.

Key Facts

  • U.S. mothers are joining the workforce less this year.
  • The decline is not only due to return-to-office requirements.
  • The trend has been ongoing throughout most of the year.
  • Explanations for this decrease are being investigated by experts.
  • This information comes from a report by "The Indicator" team.

Source Verification

NPR Home

A look at research on Americans' changing attitudes toward political violence

September 12, 2025

Summary

The article covers a discussion between NPR's Michel Martin and University of Chicago professor Robert Pape about how Americans' views on political violence are changing. They explore recent research on this topic.

Key Facts

  • The discussion is part of NPR's Morning Edition segment.
  • Michel Martin speaks with Robert Pape, who is a political science professor.
  • The topic focuses on Americans' changing views about political violence.
  • The research discussed is recent and examines shifts in public opinion.
  • The interview will be available to listen to online later.
  • The discussion was sponsored and distributed through various platforms like Facebook and Flipboard.

Source Verification

NPR National

Utah college students react to the death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk

September 12, 2025

Summary

Utah college students are responding to the death of Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist, who was shot at Utah Valley University. NPR plans to discuss the incident with students from this university and also those from nearby BYU.

Key Facts

  • Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist, was shot and killed.
  • The incident occurred at Utah Valley University.
  • Students from Utah Valley University are sharing their reactions.
  • NPR intends to interview students about the event.
  • The article mentions students from both Utah Valley University and Brigham Young University (BYU).

Source Verification

NPR National
COMIC: 7 signs it's time to call it quits

COMIC: 7 signs it's time to call it quits

September 12, 2025

Summary

The article discusses the idea that quitting can sometimes be a good decision, even though society often promotes persistence. Experts like Annie Duke, Colin Rocker, and Angela Duckworth provide insights on when it might be time to stop pursuing a goal.

Key Facts

  • The article challenges common sayings against quitting, suggesting it's not always negative.
  • Cognitive psychologist Annie Duke wrote a book about quitting wisely.
  • Career educator Colin Rocker and psychologist Angela Duckworth also contribute their insights.
  • The experts discuss signs that indicate when it might be time to quit.
  • The article is part of NPR's "Life Kit" series, which offers advice on various topics.
  • The piece was produced by Margaret Cirino and edited by Malaka Gharib.

Source Verification

NPR Home
This shop fixes student instruments for free. Now, a music legend is chipping in

This shop fixes student instruments for free. Now, a music legend is chipping in

September 12, 2025

Summary

A repair shop in Los Angeles fixes musical instruments for students in the Los Angeles Unified School District for free. The shop recently received a $1 million donation from musician Herb Alpert to support its work.

Key Facts

  • The repair shop is in downtown Los Angeles and serves the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).
  • It is one of the only publicly funded repair shops for musical instruments remaining in the U.S.
  • The shop fixes about 120,000 district-owned instruments used by students.
  • Around 80% of the students in the district come from low-income backgrounds.
  • The shop gained recognition after being featured in an Oscar-winning documentary, The Last Repair Shop.
  • Herb Alpert, a musician who grew up in the same district, donated $1 million to the shop.
  • The shop provides free repairs, alleviating stress for both students and teachers.

Source Verification

NPR Home
Wary of RFK Jr., Colorado started revamping its vaccine policies last spring

Wary of RFK Jr., Colorado started revamping its vaccine policies last spring

September 12, 2025

Summary

Colorado and other states are changing their vaccine policies in response to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s appointment as Secretary of Health and Human Services. These changes aim to maintain vaccine access and adjust state laws to reduce reliance on federal guidance. Colorado has permitted pharmacists to give COVID-19 vaccines without prescriptions as part of their updates.

Key Facts

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was appointed as the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
  • Colorado updated its laws to allow pharmacists to provide COVID-19 shots without a prescription.
  • The state now considers scientific sources beyond the federal government for school vaccine requirements.
  • Several western states have formed a group to ensure ongoing vaccine access.
  • New York and Minnesota changed policies to allow easier vaccine access without prescriptions from doctors.
  • Massachusetts requires insurance coverage for vaccines recommended by the state health department.
  • These actions reflect a shift in health authority from the federal to the state level.
  • Colorado's law was passed by a Democrat-led legislature and signed by Governor Jared Polis.

Source Verification

NPR Home
These fired DOJ lawyers are finding new ways to make a difference

These fired DOJ lawyers are finding new ways to make a difference

September 12, 2025

Summary

Four lawyers who were fired from the U.S. Attorney's office, where they prosecuted January 6 attackers, have found new jobs as prosecutors in Arlington County, Virginia. They were let go by the Trump administration but are now continuing their public service careers together.

Key Facts

  • Four former government lawyers were dismissed after prosecuting January 6 rioters.
  • The lawyers are now working as prosecutors in Arlington County, Virginia.
  • They had been prosecuting cases before being terminated by the Trump administration.
  • President Trump granted clemency to all January 6 defendants on his first day in office.
  • The lawyers lost their positions when new leadership came into the Justice Department.
  • The White House cited broad authority over the federal workforce as a reason for the dismissals.
  • The lawyers faced difficulties finding new jobs due to legal market conditions and possible retribution fears.
  • Parisa Dehghani-Tafti, the elected attorney in Arlington, offered them new positions.

Source Verification

NPR Home
As life in D.C. becomes national news, a rapper shares his view from the ground

As life in D.C. becomes national news, a rapper shares his view from the ground

September 12, 2025

Summary

The article discusses the work of Washington, D.C. rapper El Cousteau, focusing on how his music reflects the local culture and challenges of the city. The rapper's latest mixtape, "Dirty Harry 2," explores his upbringing and the changing face of D.C. amid ongoing discussions about gentrification and cultural preservation.

Key Facts

  • El Cousteau is a rapper from Washington, D.C.
  • His mixtape "Dirty Harry 2" talks about his life and experiences in D.C.
  • The rapper's music contrasts modern life with historical D.C. culture.
  • El Cousteau addresses themes like gentrification in his work.
  • His music reflects both his travels and the strong connection to his home city.
  • Another D.C. rapper, GoldLink, also highlighted similar themes in his album "At What Cost" in 2017.
  • The Trump administration placed local police under federal control in August, impacting the area.

Source Verification

NPR News
New clues in hunt for Charlie Kirk's killer

New clues in hunt for Charlie Kirk's killer

September 12, 2025

Summary

The FBI has released new video footage showing the suspect in the killing of American activist Charlie Kirk. The video captures the suspect running across a roof, the location from which the fatal shot was fired, then dropping to the ground and crossing a road.

Key Facts

  • The FBI released video footage related to Charlie Kirk's killing.
  • The video shows the suspect running across a roof.
  • The roof is the location from which the shot that killed Charlie Kirk was fired.
  • The suspect is then seen dropping to the ground.
  • After dropping to the ground, the suspect crosses a road.
  • The footage is a part of the ongoing investigation by authorities.

Source Verification

BBC World
Watch: New video of moment Kirk shooting suspect flees the scene

Watch: New video of moment Kirk shooting suspect flees the scene

September 12, 2025

Summary

Utah authorities released a video showing the suspect in the Charlie Kirk shooting fleeing the scene at Utah Valley University. The suspect is seen running across a roof and wearing distinctive clothing, including a black T-shirt with an American flag and an eagle.

Key Facts

  • A shooting involving Charlie Kirk occurred at Utah Valley University.
  • Utah authorities shared CCTV video of the suspect fleeing the scene.
  • The suspect is dressed in black and wears Converse shoes.
  • The suspect also wears sunglasses and a distinctive black T-shirt.
  • The T-shirt has an American flag and an eagle on it.

Source Verification

BBC World
Is your child a fussy eater? Try these five tips

Is your child a fussy eater? Try these five tips

September 12, 2025

Summary

The article provides tips for parents on dealing with children who are picky eaters. It mentions advice from child nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed on methods to encourage children to try more foods without feeling pressured.

Key Facts

  • More than half of children show fussy eating habits, according to the NHS.
  • Allowing children to choose what they eat can help them feel more in control and willing to try new foods.
  • Avoid labeling foods as good or bad to prevent children from developing negative food associations.
  • Making mealtime enjoyable and not focusing solely on eating can encourage a better dining atmosphere.
  • Recognize that children's appetites can change; let them decide how much they want to eat at structured meal times.
  • Involving children in food preparation can make them more interested in trying different foods.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Young fans and critics debate Charlie Kirk's political legacy

Young fans and critics debate Charlie Kirk's political legacy

September 12, 2025

Summary

Charlie Kirk, a political activist known for his conservative views, died from a shooting while speaking at a university in Utah. His death has sparked discussions about his political legacy, with both supporters and opponents debating his impact. Kirk was known for encouraging open debate and attracting both strong support and criticism.

Key Facts

  • Charlie Kirk was 31 years old and a notable American political activist.
  • He was killed on stage by a single gunshot during a debate in Utah.
  • Kirk was famous for his conservative Christian values and support for gun rights.
  • He often sparked debate through his controversial opinions, including opposition to abortion and skepticism about the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • His death has led to discussions about political violence and whether it can ever be justified.
  • Kirk's supporters appreciated his ability to connect with young people and encourage open discussions.
  • Tributes have been paid to him, emphasizing that violence should never be used against someone due to their political views.
  • Kirk leaves behind a wife and two children.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
What did security look like at Charlie Kirk shooting?

What did security look like at Charlie Kirk shooting?

September 11, 2025

Summary

Charlie Kirk was shot at a speaking event at Utah Valley University. Security guards and police acted quickly to protect him, but he later died from his injuries. Questions have been raised about the security measures in place at the event and what could have been done to prevent the incident.

Key Facts

  • Charlie Kirk was shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University.
  • The event had about 3,000 people in attendance.
  • Security at the event included six police officers and several private security guards.
  • The shooter reportedly fired from a rooftop of a building near the event.
  • The FBI did not confirm if Kirk wore a bulletproof vest, but he was shot in the neck.
  • Experts note that outdoor events like this often have less strict security, with no bag checks or metal detectors.
  • The area's low crime rate may have influenced the level of security provided.
  • Experts suggest drones could help in monitoring such events but are not always used.

Source Verification

BBC US
US DoJ asks court for emergency ruling to remove Cook from Fed board

US DoJ asks court for emergency ruling to remove Cook from Fed board

September 11, 2025

Summary

The U.S. Department of Justice, under President Donald Trump, has asked a court to remove Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve Board before the Fed's meeting. Cook is fighting her removal, arguing it's based on her views, not past actions. The case could influence how independent the Federal Reserve is from political influence.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration requested an emergency court ruling to remove Lisa Cook from the Fed's board before an interest rates vote.
  • Cook is accused of mortgage fraud, which she denies, claiming it's a pretext for her dismissal.
  • Cook's position is temporarily protected by a court ruling while her lawsuit proceeds.
  • Senate Republicans are working to confirm Stephen Miran to an open Fed board spot.
  • The case could go to the U.S. Supreme Court if Cook wins her appeal.
  • Trump has criticized the Fed and demanded more aggressive interest rate cuts.
  • The law to remove Fed governors requires a cause but does not define it, and no president has removed a governor before.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Charlie Kirk's killing raises the stakes for campus security

Charlie Kirk's killing raises the stakes for campus security

September 11, 2025

Summary

Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at an event at Utah Valley University, raising concerns about security and free speech on college campuses. The shooting has prompted university police chiefs to reassess security measures for events with controversial speakers.

Key Facts

  • Charlie Kirk was shot during an event at Utah Valley University.
  • The event took place in an outdoor amphitheater with about 3,000 people attending.
  • Authorities believe the shot was fired from a rooftop overlooking the event.
  • Kirk had a security detail, and six university police officers were also present.
  • Some attendees felt that the security measures, like bag checks, were insufficient.
  • University police chiefs are reviewing security protocols for events with controversial speakers.
  • Concerns exist about balancing security needs with protecting free speech on campus.
  • The shooting has raised fears that violence might increasingly be used to silence speakers.

Source Verification

NPR Home
Trump and other US leaders tighten security as hunt for Charlie Kirk's killer continues

Trump and other US leaders tighten security as hunt for Charlie Kirk's killer continues

September 11, 2025

Summary

Increased security measures are being put in place across the U.S. following the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a university in Utah. Security has been enhanced for events involving former President Trump and other public figures, as well as at several universities that received threats. Authorities continue to search for the person responsible for Kirk's death, while political leaders and institutions respond to safety concerns.

Key Facts

  • Charlie Kirk was shot at a university in Utah, leading to heightened security fears.
  • Former President Trump's security team changed the location of his 9/11 speech for safety reasons.
  • Security is tightened for a baseball game in New York, with increased law enforcement presence.
  • Several universities locked down or cancelled activities due to anonymous threats.
  • Authorities are actively searching for Kirk's killer.
  • Washington D.C. faced a bomb threat at the Democratic National Committee headquarters, later deemed not credible.
  • Public figures have cancelled events or increased personal security due to safety threats.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Senate GOP invokes "nuclear option" to confirm batches of Trump nominees

Senate GOP invokes "nuclear option" to confirm batches of Trump nominees

September 11, 2025

Summary

Senate Republicans changed the rules to allow them to vote on groups of nominees at once, aiming to clear over 140 nominees waiting for approval. This decision was made after difficulties with Democratic delays and has sparked criticism from Democrats who warn it may lead to more controversial picks.

Key Facts

  • Senate Republicans changed the rules to vote on unlimited groups of non-Cabinet and non-judicial nominees at once.
  • This change aims to address more than 140 pending nominees blocked by Democrats.
  • The rule change passed with a party-line vote, meaning only Republicans supported it.
  • Democrats wanted a cap of 15 nominees per group, but their proposal was rejected.
  • This new rule lets Republicans use a simple majority to pass the change.
  • Democrats argue this could lead to more controversial nominees being approved quickly.
  • The new rule will start with a planned vote on a group of 48 nominees.

Source Verification

Axios
"I'm f***ing sick of it": Charlie Kirk shooting sends Congress' civility crisis into overdrive

"I'm f***ing sick of it": Charlie Kirk shooting sends Congress' civility crisis into overdrive

September 11, 2025

Summary

The shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has intensified tensions between Democrats and Republicans in Congress. This event sparked heated arguments and strong reactions among lawmakers, with calls for both parties to behave more respectfully.

Key Facts

  • Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist, was involved in a shooting that has increased tensions in Congress.
  • Some Congress members reacted strongly, with shouting and accusations during a moment of silence for Kirk.
  • Republican lawmakers, including Rep. Nancy Mace and Rep. Lauren Boebert, have vowed to be more vocal following the incident.
  • Democrats objected to requests for a prayer for Kirk, citing protocol reasons.
  • Arguments arose over related issues, such as gun control, following a concurrent high school shooting.
  • Rep. Derrick Van Orden made controversial posts on social media about the shooting, accusing Democrats and media outlets.
  • Both parties expressed a need for improved conduct and respectful behavior in Congress.
  • House leaders are urging members from both sides to tone down divisive rhetoric and focus on unity.

Source Verification

Axios
"Terroristic threats" disrupt life at Black schools across the U.S.

"Terroristic threats" disrupt life at Black schools across the U.S.

September 11, 2025

Summary

Several historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States had to cancel classes and campus activities due to threats labeled as "terroristic." These threats led to lockdowns, although they proved to be unfounded. The situation has prompted statements from officials and investigations by law enforcement.

Key Facts

  • Multiple HBCUs, including Alabama State University and Spelman College, reported threats that caused lockdowns.
  • No real threats were found, and some schools have lifted their lockdowns.
  • It is not clear if the threats are connected or racially motivated.
  • The FBI is aware of similar fake threats (hoaxes) and is investigating.
  • Swatting incidents, where fake emergency calls trigger law enforcement responses, have affected universities recently.
  • There are 99 HBCUs in the U.S., serving a diverse student body.
  • HBCUs have faced similar threats in the past, including bomb threats in 2022 during Black History Month.

Source Verification

Axios
Appeals court allows Trump administration to block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood

Appeals court allows Trump administration to block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood

September 11, 2025

Summary

A U.S. appeals court allowed the Trump administration to block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood while legal battles continue. This decision affects many people who use Medicaid to get services at Planned Parenthood clinics.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. appeals court decision allows Medicaid funds to stop going to Planned Parenthood.
  • Planned Parenthood offers services like contraception and pregnancy tests.
  • Planned Parenthood says over 1.1 million patients could not use Medicaid at its clinics due to the ruling.
  • The organization claims up to 200 health centers might have to close.
  • Medicaid is a government program that helps people with low incomes and disabilities get healthcare.
  • Nearly half of Planned Parenthood's patients use Medicaid for their services.
  • A part of Trump's tax bill aimed to stop Medicaid payments to large abortion providers for one year.

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour