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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Key tips for getting along with roommates

NPR's Life Kit provides advice on how to live peacefully with roommates. The tips aim to help people maintain good relationships when sharing living spaces.

Key Facts:

  • NPR's Life Kit shared advice for living well with roommates.
  • The focus is on maintaining good relationships in shared spaces.
  • The tips were featured on a segment called "All Things Considered."
  • Living with roommates can be challenging.
  • The advice is aimed at making these living situations easier.

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"Despicable and thoughtless": Vance's drug vessel strike praise slammed by senator

"Despicable and thoughtless": Vance's drug vessel strike praise slammed by senator

U.S. Vice President JD Vance praised a military strike on a vessel suspected of drug trafficking, calling it an effective use of military resources. Senator Rand Paul criticized this viewpoint, labeling it as irresponsible. The operation has triggered debates about its legality, and questions from lawmakers about the lack of prior briefing.

Key Facts:

  • Vice President JD Vance praised a U.S. military strike on a suspected drug vessel.
  • Senator Rand Paul criticized Vance's comments as reckless and insensitive.
  • The U.S. has classified narcotraffickers as terrorists, allowing military strikes.
  • This incident is part of a broader war on drugs strategy under the Trump administration.
  • Some lawmakers, including top Democrats, were not informed before the operation.
  • Concerns exist about the legal justification and potential overreach of authority for such strikes.
  • There is tension with Venezuela, where the strike vessel reportedly originated.
  • Officials and lawmakers are seeking clarity on the legal basis for this military action.

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JFK grandson Jack Schlossberg takes step towards run for Congress

JFK grandson Jack Schlossberg takes step towards run for Congress

Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of President John F. Kennedy, has announced he is considering a run for Congress in New York. He formed an exploratory committee for New York's 12th congressional district seat, which is open after Rep. Jerry Nadler decided not to seek re-election. Other candidates and potential candidates are also eyeing the seat.

Key Facts:

  • Jack Schlossberg is the grandson of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy.
  • He plans to run for Congress in New York's 12th district.
  • Rep. Jerry Nadler is retiring and not running for an 18th term.
  • Liam Elkind and Micah Lasher have announced their campaigns for the same seat.
  • Schlossberg is a graduate of Harvard and Yale Law School.
  • He has spoken at Democratic National Conventions in 2020 and 2024.
  • Schlossberg has publicly disagreed with his uncle, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., on vaccine views.
  • Former Rep. Carolyn Maloney and Cynthia Nixon are potential candidates for the seat.

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WATCH: Trump says ‘we’re not going to war’ with Chicago after threatening city on social media

WATCH: Trump says ‘we’re not going to war’ with Chicago after threatening city on social media

President Trump posted a social media image promising to send the National Guard and immigration agents to Chicago, using a parody from the film "Apocalypse Now." Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and other leaders opposed Trump's plan, with threats of legal action against what they called an unfair federal takeover.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump posted a parody image from "Apocalypse Now" suggesting a plan for Chicago.
  • Trump suggested sending the National Guard and immigration agents to Chicago.
  • Illinois Governor JB Pritzker opposed the plan and criticized Trump.
  • Trump also mentioned renaming the Defense Department to the Department of War, requiring Congress approval.
  • Trump has deployed federal troops in other cities such as Los Angeles and Washington.
  • Local Chicago leaders plan to sue the Trump administration over this proposal.
  • Trump stated he could act if he believes American cities are in danger.

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Trump's team plans harder test for U.S. citizenship — and more leeway to reject applicants

Trump's team plans harder test for U.S. citizenship — and more leeway to reject applicants

The Trump administration plans to make the U.S. citizenship test harder, possibly adding an essay requirement to give officials more leeway in approving applicants. Officials also plan to apply stricter standards on "good moral character" for citizenship, reversing some policies from the Biden administration. USCIS is reverting to a previous version of the citizenship test and has issued new guidelines for English proficiency and moral character evaluations.

Key Facts:

  • The U.S. plans to make the citizenship test more difficult, potentially including an essay.
  • Officials want more discretion in approving or rejecting citizenship applications.
  • The administration is focusing on the standard of "good moral character" for applicants.
  • Over 818,000 people became U.S. citizens in fiscal 2024, more than during Trump's first term.
  • Joseph Edlow, USCIS director, believes the citizenship exam is currently too easy.
  • USCIS has reverted to the 2020 version of the citizenship exam.
  • New guidance aims to help officials in evaluating applications, but may lead to more legal challenges.
  • Eric Welsh from Reeves Immigration Law Group warns this could lead to biased decisions.

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Trump 2.0 refashions U.S. military muscle

Trump 2.0 refashions U.S. military muscle

The Trump administration is changing how the U.S. uses its military, focusing more on actions near the southern U.S. border and in the Caribbean. This shift includes targeting drug cartels and increasing military presence in these areas, while also drawing attention away from traditional overseas threats.

Key Facts:

  • The U.S. is increasing military operations near the southern border and the Caribbean.
  • Vice President Vance stated the military's best use is in targeting cartel members.
  • Venezuelan military jets flew close to a U.S. Navy ship in the Caribbean.
  • The new national defense strategy might focus more on homeland security.
  • Ten F-35 fighter jets were deployed to Puerto Rico.
  • U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth compared drug-runners to terrorist groups like al-Qaeda.
  • The Army plans to send additional troops to the U.S.-Mexico border.
  • Congress has not declared war on cartels, which are typically seen as criminals rather than military targets.

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Chicago unites against Trump across protests and the Mexican Independence Day parade

A Mexican Independence Day parade took place in Chicago despite concerns about stricter immigration enforcement. Protests also occurred in the city against potential federal actions by the Trump administration.

Key Facts:

  • A Mexican Independence Day parade was held in Chicago.
  • There were concerns about increased immigration enforcement by the Trump administration.
  • Despite these concerns, the parade went on as planned.
  • Protests occurred in Chicago against threatened federal intervention by the president.
  • The events took place over a weekend.

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A DC conference brings together a group of conservative political and religious leaders

A conference in Washington, DC brought together conservative political and religious leaders. The event featured speakers who discussed their shared views, including Pastor Doug Wilson, who aims to promote his vision of a country led by White Christian men.

Key Facts:

  • A conference took place in Washington, DC.
  • The event gathered conservative political and religious leaders.
  • Pastor Doug Wilson attended the conference.
  • Wilson plans to start a new church.
  • He advocates for a nation led by White Christian men.
  • Other conference participants shared similar views.

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Literary center named for author Larry McMurtry honors hometown son

A new literary center in Archer City, Texas, is dedicated to the memory of Western author Larry McMurtry. The center aims to preserve and celebrate McMurtry's contributions to literature.

Key Facts:

  • A literary center has been established in Archer City, Texas.
  • The center honors Larry McMurtry, a well-known Western author.
  • Archer City is a small ranching town.
  • The center aims to keep McMurtry's literary legacy alive.
  • Larry McMurtry is recognized for his work in Western literature.

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Sanders, Mamdani rally progressive voters as NYC mayor’s race intensifies

Sanders, Mamdani rally progressive voters as NYC mayor’s race intensifies

Senator Bernie Sanders is traveling across the US to rally progressive voters, recently joining New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani at a town hall in Brooklyn. This event drew significant attention as Mamdani emerges as a key figure for progressives, despite facing criticism from more moderate political opponents. Sanders and Mamdani discussed issues like income inequality and large corporate influence, aiming to inspire their supporters.

Key Facts:

  • Senator Bernie Sanders is on a national tour called the "Fighting the Oligarchy Tour".
  • Sanders appeared at Brooklyn College with NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani.
  • The town hall attracted around 1,700 attendees and highlighted progressive politics.
  • Mamdani is a Democratic socialist and a frontrunner in the NYC mayoral race.
  • President Trump inaccurately called Mamdani a "communist".
  • Sanders criticized media owners and billionaires, including Elon Musk.
  • Mamdani has confronted big businesses like DoorDash for their financial influence.
  • Childcare costs, a significant local concern, were discussed at the town hall.

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Trump threatens ‘war’ on Chicago as thousands protest federal crackdown

Trump threatens ‘war’ on Chicago as thousands protest federal crackdown

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to deploy federal agents and National Guard troops to Chicago, similar to actions taken in other Democratic-led cities. The move has sparked protests in Chicago and Washington, DC. Trump's announcement involved changing the Department of Defense's name to the "Department of War" as a symbolic gesture.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump threatened to send federal agents and National Guard troops to Chicago.
  • Many people protested in Chicago and Washington, DC, against this planned deployment.
  • Trump's threat included a post on his social media with movie references.
  • Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson publicly opposed Trump's actions.
  • Trump has sent federal troops to other cities, including Los Angeles and Washington, DC.
  • Trump signed an order renaming the Department of Defense to the "Department of War."
  • There are ongoing legal challenges against these federal deployments.
  • Protesters in Chicago carried signs against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

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One of America's most wanted evaded the FBI for 21 years - only to be found in Wales

One of America's most wanted evaded the FBI for 21 years - only to be found in Wales

Daniel Andreas San Diego, a suspect in two bombings in California, evaded the FBI for 21 years before being found in Wales. San Diego, allegedly linked to animal rights extremist groups, faces an extradition hearing in the UK to determine if he will be sent back to the United States to face trial.

Key Facts:

  • Daniel Andreas San Diego is suspected of being involved in bombings in the San Francisco Bay Area in 2003.
  • He was on the FBI's most wanted list for 21 years before being found in Wales in 2023.
  • The bombings took place at a biotechnology corporation and a nutritional products company, injuring no one.
  • San Diego was allegedly connected to an animal rights extremist group that claimed responsibility for the bombings.
  • He faces an extradition hearing in London to decide if he will be sent to the US for trial.
  • The FBI offered a $250,000 bounty for information leading to San Diego's capture.
  • Special Agents involved in the case noted missed opportunities to arrest San Diego before he disappeared.

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West Point alumni group scraps prestigious award celebrations honoring Tom Hanks

West Point alumni group scraps prestigious award celebrations honoring Tom Hanks

The West Point Association of Graduates has canceled the official award celebration for actor Tom Hanks, who was set to receive the Sylvanus Thayer Award. The award ceremony was planned for September 25, 2025, but while Hanks still receives the award, no reason was given for canceling the ceremony.

Key Facts:

  • Tom Hanks was chosen to receive the 2025 Sylvanus Thayer Award from the West Point Association of Graduates.
  • The planned ceremony and parade for Hanks on September 25, 2025, were canceled.
  • The decision was reported by The Washington Post and confirmed by a U.S. official.
  • The official did not explain why the ceremony was canceled.
  • A statement indicated the Army's focus on its core mission might be a reason.
  • Hanks is known for his advocacy work for veterans, including involvement with memorials and foundations.
  • Neither West Point nor Hanks' representatives provided comments on the cancellation.

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RFK. Jr’s family members call for his resignation, say he is a ‘threat’ to Americans’ health

RFK. Jr’s family members call for his resignation, say he is a ‘threat’ to Americans’ health

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s family members are asking him to resign as health secretary. This comes after a recent congressional hearing where he faced questions about his role in leading health agencies.

Key Facts:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the current health secretary.
  • Family members are publicly asking him to resign from his position.
  • The call for resignation followed a recent congressional hearing.
  • During the hearing, Kennedy faced questions from both political parties.
  • His sister, Kerry Kennedy, is among those asking him to step down.
  • His nephew, Joseph P. Kennedy III, also called for his resignation.
  • The concern focuses on how he manages federal health agencies.

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Pilot who tried to cut off engine midair after taking mushrooms pleads guilty

Pilot who tried to cut off engine midair after taking mushrooms pleads guilty

A former Alaska Airlines pilot, Joseph David Emerson, pleaded guilty in federal court after trying to shut off the engines of a passenger jet mid-flight. He had taken psychedelic mushrooms and later said he was not in a clear state of mind. Emerson received sentences in federal and state courts, including jail time, probation, community service, and financial restitution.

Key Facts:

  • Joseph David Emerson attempted to turn off a plane's engines during a flight from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco, California.
  • He was not on duty but was in the cockpit of an Alaska Airlines flight when the incident happened.
  • Emerson admitted to taking psychedelic mushrooms and said he was struggling with depression.
  • In federal court, he pleaded guilty and prosecutors suggested a one-year prison sentence.
  • In Oregon state court, he received 50 days in jail (already served), five years of probation, and community service.
  • Emerson must compensate for damages with a payment of $60,659.
  • The event resulted in the flight being diverted to Portland, Oregon.
  • Emerson will undergo assessments for drug and alcohol use and has restrictions on proximity to aircraft.

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States join forces to make their own vaccine recommendations amid CDC turmoil

States join forces to make their own vaccine recommendations amid CDC turmoil

Some states in the U.S. are teaming up to evaluate vaccine information and provide their own recommendations. This move comes as there are ongoing disagreements over the federal government’s vaccine policies.

Key Facts:

  • Some U.S. states are forming alliances to review scientific data on vaccines.
  • These states aim to make their own recommendations separate from federal guidelines.
  • The action follows disagreements over the federal vaccine policy managed by the CDC.
  • Hawaii Governor Josh Green, who is also a doctor, has provided insights on this effort.
  • The states are responding to what they see as challenges in federal vaccine guidance.

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Only federal agency that investigates chemical disasters faces shutdown under Trump

Only federal agency that investigates chemical disasters faces shutdown under Trump

The U.S. Chemical Safety Hazard and Investigation Board (CSB), which looks into chemical accidents, may be closed down by the Trump administration. Officials argue that other agencies like the EPA and OSHA can handle its tasks.

Key Facts:

  • The CSB investigates major chemical accidents.
  • It provides recommendations to prevent future chemical disasters.
  • The Trump administration wants to shut down the CSB.
  • Officials claim the CSB's work overlaps with agencies like EPA and OSHA.
  • David Michaels, a former OSHA director, discusses the situation.
  • The shutdown proposal is part of the government reorganization efforts.

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Trump signs order to punish countries that unjustly detain US citizens

Trump signs order to punish countries that unjustly detain US citizens

Donald Trump signed an executive order to penalize countries that wrongfully detain American citizens. The order allows for sanctions and other measures against these nations. The move is intended to protect US nationals from being unjustly held overseas.

Key Facts:

  • Trump signed an order to punish countries that detain Americans unfairly.
  • The order lets the State Department impose sanctions or other actions.
  • It introduces a "state sponsor of wrongful detention" label for countries.
  • The order also applies to non-state actors who control areas but are not recognized as governments.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio called it an "unprecedented action."
  • The Foley Foundation says 54 Americans were wrongfully detained in 17 countries in 2024.
  • The White House reported the release of 72 American detainees under Trump's administration.
  • Detentions often follow legitimate law enforcement or judicial actions abroad.

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Chicago responds to President Trump's threats of troop deployment

Chicago is responding to President Trump's threats to send National Guard troops and increase immigration enforcement. Local officials and residents are reacting to these potential federal actions.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump threatened to send National Guard troops to Chicago.
  • He also mentioned increasing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities.
  • Chicago officials are responding to these threats.
  • There has been public reaction in Chicago to the possibility of troop deployment.
  • National Guard is a reserve military force that can be called upon by the government.
  • Increased ICE enforcement means more immigration checks and deportations.

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Home Office clearout as Starmer reshuffles top team

Home Office clearout as Starmer reshuffles top team

The U.K. Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has reshuffled his government team, moving several ministers to new roles. Key changes include appointing new officials to the Home Office and Cabinet Office, partly to address immigration issues. This reshuffle follows the resignation of the Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner.

Key Facts:

  • Sir Keir Starmer is the U.K. Prime Minister who conducted the reshuffle.
  • The reshuffle included moving Yvette Cooper to the Foreign Office.
  • New appointments at the Home Office include Sarah Jones and Alex Norris.
  • The focus of some changes is on addressing illegal immigration and small boat crossings.
  • Anna Turley is now minister without portfolio in the Cabinet Office and Labour Party chair.
  • Ellie Reeves becomes the Solicitor General, and Lucy Rigby moves to the Treasury.
  • Jason Stockwood becomes a business minister and joins the House of Lords.
  • Poppy Gustaffson and Jim McMahon have left their government positions.

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