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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

"Authoritarian power grab": Democrats erupt as Trump moves to fire Fed governor Lisa Cook

"Authoritarian power grab": Democrats erupt as Trump moves to fire Fed governor Lisa Cook

Summary

President Trump announced he is firing Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook using Article II of the Constitution and the Federal Reserve Act of 1913. Democratic lawmakers argue that this action is illegal, and they are urging the courts to challenge it. The controversy adds to tensions as Trump pressures the Federal Reserve to change its interest rate policies.

Key Facts

  • President Trump stated he is removing Lisa Cook from her position as Federal Reserve governor.
  • Trump claims he has the authority under Article II of the Constitution and the Federal Reserve Act.
  • The Federal Reserve Act allows a president to remove a governor for cause, but it has not been done before, and its legality is uncertain.
  • Trump mentioned claims that Cook listed two primary residences in mortgage applications as part of his reasoning.
  • Lisa Cook said she had no intention of stepping down and is preparing to respond to the allegations.
  • Democrats see this as an illegal move and are calling for judicial intervention.
  • The action happens amid Trump's criticism of Federal Reserve policies on interest rates.
  • Trump's decision is part of broader efforts to influence federal agencies for economic purposes.

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Watch: Moment massive dust storm surges through Arizona

Watch: Moment massive dust storm surges through Arizona

Summary

A large dust storm, known as a haboob, swept through Pinal County in Arizona, carried by thunderstorm winds. These dust storms are common in the southwestern United States.

Key Facts

  • A dust storm occurred in Arizona, specifically in Pinal County.
  • The storm was driven by winds from a thunderstorm.
  • The phenomenon is called a "haboob," which means "strong wind" or "gale."
  • The term "haboob" originates from Arabic.
  • Such storms are frequent in the southwestern region of the United States.

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Trump orders removal of Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook

Trump orders removal of Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook

Summary

Former President Donald Trump announced via social media that he has decided to remove Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook from her position. Trump accused Cook of signing conflicting mortgage agreements for properties in Michigan and Georgia. Neither Lisa Cook nor the Federal Reserve has commented on Trump's decision.

Key Facts

  • Donald Trump announced the removal of Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve Board.
  • Trump made the announcement on his social media platform, Truth Social.
  • He accused Cook of signing conflicting mortgage documents for properties in two different states.
  • The accusation involves Cook's claims about primary residences in Michigan and Georgia.
  • As of now, Lisa Cook and the Federal Reserve have not responded to the accusations.
  • Cook is the first African American woman to serve on the Federal Reserve Board since 2022.
  • Trump has criticized the Federal Reserve and its chair, Jerome Powell, for not lowering interest rates.

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Trump orders removal of Fed governor Cook over mortgage fraud claims

Trump orders removal of Fed governor Cook over mortgage fraud claims

Summary

Donald Trump has removed Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook due to unproven claims of mortgage fraud. Trump cited allegations from a federal mortgage regulator and used his authority under the U.S. Constitution and the Federal Reserve Act for the removal.

Key Facts

  • Donald Trump ordered the removal of Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook.
  • The removal is based on unproven mortgage fraud claims.
  • Trump cited powers from the U.S. Constitution and the 1913 Federal Reserve Act.
  • Allegations were made by the U.S. federal mortgage regulator.
  • Cook allegedly made false statements about mortgage agreements.
  • Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte accused Cook of listing two primary home addresses.
  • The decision raises questions about the independence of the Federal Reserve.
  • The Federal Reserve has not responded to requests for comment.

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Trump fires Fed governor Lisa Cook

Trump fires Fed governor Lisa Cook

Summary

President Trump removed Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook from her position. The White House claims she was fired due to accusations of mortgage fraud, but Cook denies wrongdoing. Her term was initially set to last until 2038.

Key Facts

  • President Trump fired Lisa Cook, a Federal Reserve governor.
  • The White House cited legal reasons for her dismissal related to mortgage fraud accusations.
  • Lisa Cook was the first Black woman to serve as a Fed governor.
  • Her term was originally set to end in 2038.
  • Bill Pulte of the Federal Housing Finance Agency accused Cook of falsifying bank documents.
  • Cook denies the allegations and plans to provide evidence to refute them.
  • Stephen Miran has been nominated to temporarily take her place.
  • If Cook's removal stands, it would create a second vacancy in the Fed this month.

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Trump bans burning of US flag in defiance of constitutional protections

Trump bans burning of US flag in defiance of constitutional protections

Summary

President Donald Trump signed an order to punish people who burn the U.S. flag with a year in jail. This action goes against a Supreme Court decision that protects flag burning as free speech under the First Amendment. Free speech groups criticize the order as a violation of civil liberties.

Key Facts

  • President Trump signed an executive order punishing flag burning with jail time.
  • The order gives one year in jail for flag burning with no early release.
  • The 1989 Supreme Court decision protects flag burning as free speech.
  • Free speech groups argue the order violates the First Amendment.
  • Attorney General is instructed to prosecute flag burning cases fully.
  • The order also considers revoking visas or deporting foreign nationals involved in flag burning.
  • Trump claims, without evidence, that flag burning incites riots.
  • Legal experts argue that flag burning is not a widespread problem.

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House Republicans investigate Trump's DC crime data manipulation claims

House Republicans investigate Trump's DC crime data manipulation claims

Summary

House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer has started an investigation into former President Trump's claim that Washington D.C.'s crime data was manipulated. This comes shortly after a federal investigation into the same issue was announced. Trump has been using these allegations to support his idea of involving federal agents in cities.

Key Facts

  • James Comer is leading the investigation into D.C. crime data manipulation claims.
  • This action follows a federal investigation announcement by the Justice Department.
  • Trump claims D.C. manipulated crime data to justify federal involvement.
  • A whistleblower alleged that D.C. police manipulated statistics on a large scale.
  • Commander Michael Pulliam was suspended for allegedly manipulating crime data.
  • Trump has criticized other cities like Los Angeles and New York in similar terms.

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FEMA staffers warn Trump’s cuts will result in Katrina-level catastrophe

FEMA staffers warn Trump’s cuts will result in Katrina-level catastrophe

Summary

A letter from over 180 current and former FEMA employees warns that cuts to the agency could lead to a disaster like Hurricane Katrina. They criticize the leadership and policies that hinder FEMA's response to emergencies. The letter calls for Congress to make FEMA an independent agency and protect its operations.

Key Facts

  • Over 180 FEMA employees signed a letter warning of a potential disaster due to agency cuts.
  • 35 named and 146 unnamed signatories were part of this letter.
  • The letter criticizes the qualifications of current FEMA leaders.
  • A requirement for high-level review on contracts over $100,000 is seen as reducing FEMA's efficiency.
  • Some FEMA staff were reassigned to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.
  • Cuts to FEMA’s budget and workforce have been proposed by the administration.
  • The letter suggests making FEMA an independent agency to avoid political influence.
  • The concerns were highlighted on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

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First human case of flesh-eating screwworm parasite confirmed in US

First human case of flesh-eating screwworm parasite confirmed in US

Summary

A case of a flesh-eating parasite called New World screwworm has been reported in a person in the United States. The person had traveled from El Salvador, where there is an ongoing outbreak. Authorities say the parasite mainly affects animals and the risk to people in the US is low.

Key Facts

  • The first human case of New World screwworm in the US involved a person returning from El Salvador.
  • New World screwworm causes a parasitic infection using fly larvae known as maggots.
  • The infection usually affects animals, but sometimes it can affect humans, especially those with open wounds.
  • An outbreak of this parasite is present in Central America and Mexico.
  • US health officials, including the CDC and Maryland's health department, investigated the case.
  • The USDA warns that an outbreak in livestock could have significant economic impacts.
  • Measures are being taken by US agencies to address the screwworm outbreak.

Source Verification

Trump seeks to fire Fed governor Lisa Cook

Trump seeks to fire Fed governor Lisa Cook

Summary

President Trump announced efforts to fire Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook. He cited alleged false statements on a mortgage application as the reason for her dismissal. The move is part of Trump's effort to gain more influence over the Federal Reserve.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants to fire Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook.
  • Trump alleges Cook made false statements on a mortgage application.
  • Federal law allows Fed governors to be removed only for cause.
  • Trump claims there is enough reason to dismiss Cook based on these allegations.
  • The allegations include obtaining home loans under potentially false pretenses.
  • Cook has not yet provided a detailed response to these allegations.
  • Removing Cook could give Trump the opportunity to appoint more Fed governors.
  • There may be legal challenges to the dismissal due to Fed's intended independence.

Source Verification

Trump's threat to deploy troops in Chicago raises legal questions

Trump's threat to deploy troops in Chicago raises legal questions

Summary

President Trump spoke about sending the National Guard to Chicago to reduce crime, homelessness, and immigration issues, but there is legal uncertainty about this action. Illinois leaders are concerned that this might not be allowed by law. The situation involves disagreement between state and federal powers over law enforcement.

Key Facts

  • President Trump wants to send the National Guard to Chicago to address crime and immigration.
  • Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and other leaders question the legality of this move.
  • Normally, a state governor agrees with the president to use the National Guard.
  • Federal troops can typically only protect federal areas unless the Insurrection Act is invoked.
  • The Insurrection Act allows the president to use troops to control unrest.
  • Former Mayor Rahm Emanuel claims the move is more about immigration control than crime.
  • There is ongoing debate about federal vs. state control over law enforcement.
  • Crime rates in Chicago are dropping, but some serious incidents still happen.

Source Verification

Oversight subpoenas Jeffrey Epstein's Estate

Oversight subpoenas Jeffrey Epstein's Estate

Summary

The House Oversight Committee has issued a subpoena to Jeffrey Epstein's estate to gather documents as part of their investigation into him. The committee is interested in learning more about Epstein's activities and is also questioning several former government officials about any relevant information they may have. They have scheduled interviews and requested written statements from key figures in Epstein's past legal dealings.

Key Facts

  • The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed documents from Jeffrey Epstein's estate.
  • They are looking for records that might explain more about Epstein's activities, including a "birthday book" made by Ghislaine Maxwell.
  • Former U.S. Attorney Alex Acosta is set to be interviewed on September 19.
  • Acosta was criticized for a 2008 plea deal he approved for Epstein, which had been investigated by the Justice Department.
  • The estate has until September 8 to provide the requested documents.
  • The Justice Department has already given the committee thousands of pages of related documents.
  • The committee is also seeking testimony from former officials, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, and James Comey.
  • Former Attorneys General Alberto Gonzales, Eric Holder, and Jeff Sessions have been asked to formally declare they have no information about Epstein.

Source Verification

Lil Nas X pleads not guilty to four felony charges after LA arrest

Lil Nas X pleads not guilty to four felony charges after LA arrest

Summary

Rapper Lil Nas X was arrested in Los Angeles and faces four felony charges. He pleaded not guilty to injuring a police officer and resisting arrest after an incident where he was found wandering the streets partially naked. His bail was set at $75,000.

Key Facts

  • Lil Nas X was arrested in Los Angeles and pleaded not guilty to four felony charges.
  • The charges include three counts of battery with injury to a police officer and one count of resisting arrest.
  • The incident occurred when police responded to a report of a man wandering the streets in his underwear.
  • Lil Nas X, whose real name is Montero Lamar Hill, allegedly charged at the officers.
  • He was taken to a hospital for a possible overdose.
  • A video reportedly shows Lil Nas X in white underwear and cowboy boots before his arrest.
  • His bail was set at $75,000, and he appeared in court in Los Angeles.
  • Lil Nas X gained fame with "Old Town Road," which was a record-breaking song on the Billboard Hot 100.

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Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s attorney discusses his case amid new deportation effort

Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s attorney discusses his case amid new deportation effort

Summary

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident, has been arrested again by U.S. immigration officials. He is being processed for deportation to Uganda. His attorney, Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, is discussing the case with the media.

Key Facts

  • Kilmar Abrego Garcia lives in Maryland.
  • He was arrested by immigration authorities during a meeting.
  • The administration plans to deport him to Uganda.
  • Previously, his deportation raised concerns about immigration policies.
  • Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg is his lawyer and has been discussing the case publicly.

Source Verification

News Wrap: Trump signs order aimed at flag burning

News Wrap: Trump signs order aimed at flag burning

Summary

President Trump signed an executive order focused on flag burning. The House Oversight Committee issued a subpoena to Jeffrey Epstein's estate. In the Pacific Northwest, a severe heat wave continues, and nearly 200 FEMA employees expressed concern about potential disaster management issues.

Key Facts

  • President Trump signed an executive order related to flag burning.
  • The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed the estate of Jeffrey Epstein.
  • A severe heat wave is ongoing in the Pacific Northwest.
  • Almost 200 current and former FEMA employees have warned about disaster response changes.
  • These FEMA employees are concerned about the potential for a large-scale disaster, similar to Hurricane Katrina.

Source Verification

A look at D.C.’s unique history and why presidents can wield control of law enforcement

A look at D.C.’s unique history and why presidents can wield control of law enforcement

Summary

Some National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., are now carrying weapons. President Trump argues this is to help reduce crime in the city. He can do this more easily in D.C. than in other cities.

Key Facts

  • More than 2,000 National Guard troops are stationed in Washington, D.C.
  • Some of these troops are armed.
  • President Trump claims this measure is to help decrease crime.
  • He has considered similar actions for cities like Chicago and New York.
  • The President has special authority over law enforcement in Washington, D.C. compared to other cities.

Source Verification

Democratic Rep. Doggett on Texas redistricting battle and party’s pushback against Trump

Democratic Rep. Doggett on Texas redistricting battle and party’s pushback against Trump

Summary

Democratic Party leaders are meeting to discuss election outcomes and how new voting district maps drawn by Republicans could affect future elections. In Texas, Democratic Representative Lloyd Doggett says he might retire if the new district maps remain unchanged.

Key Facts

  • Democratic Party leaders are having a meeting in Minneapolis.
  • The meeting focuses on election outcomes in 2024.
  • There is concern over Republican-led changes to voting district maps.
  • In Texas, Rep. Lloyd Doggett may retire if the new maps are implemented.
  • The changes to district maps could affect future Democratic election chances.

Source Verification

Tamara Keith and Amy Walter on whether Newsom’s tactics against Trump are working

Tamara Keith and Amy Walter on whether Newsom’s tactics against Trump are working

Summary

Tamara Keith from NPR and Amy Walter from the Cook Political Report talked about current U.S. political news. They discussed Democrats' financial disadvantage compared to Republicans, California Governor Newsom's actions against Trump, and public views on Trump's immigration policies.

Key Facts

  • Tamara Keith works for NPR and Amy Walter for the Cook Political Report.
  • The interview discussed political topics relevant to the United States.
  • Democrats are behind Republicans in raising funds for the midterm elections.
  • California Governor Gavin Newsom is gaining attention for opposing former President Trump.
  • Public opinions on Trump's immigration policies and his approach to governance were also discussed.

Source Verification

How contrasting neighborhoods in D.C. feel about the National Guard in their city

Summary

The article discusses how people in different neighborhoods of Washington, D.C., feel about the presence of the National Guard. It notes differing opinions and the political leanings of the city, which mostly opposes former President Trump.

Key Facts

  • The article is about residents in Washington, D.C., and their opinions on the National Guard being in the city.
  • D.C. is a mostly Democrat city.
  • There is a difference in how various neighborhoods view the National Guard's presence.
  • The article hints at political tensions and debates over crime issues.
  • The city does not generally support former President Trump.

Source Verification

Maine clinics denied Medicaid funds for low-income patients during lawsuit over Trump cuts to abortion providers

Maine clinics denied Medicaid funds for low-income patients during lawsuit over Trump cuts to abortion providers

Summary

A judge in Maine ruled that a group of clinics will not receive Medicaid funds while they fight a lawsuit related to cuts by the Trump administration affecting abortion providers. This decision affects Maine Family Planning, which may have to stop serving hundreds of low-income patients. The clinics are contesting that their Medicaid funds are not used for abortion services.

Key Facts

  • A judge decided that Maine Family Planning cannot get Medicaid funds during its ongoing lawsuit.
  • The lawsuit is about Trump administration cuts affecting abortion providers.
  • Maine Family Planning provides a range of services, not just abortions, including cancer screenings and primary care.
  • The clinics serve around 8,000 low-income families in Maine.
  • Without Medicaid funds, the clinics might stop serving hundreds of patients.
  • Judge Lance Walker, who ruled against the clinics, was appointed in 2018.
  • The ruling is based on a law that blocked Medicaid money from abortion service providers.
  • The clinics are looking into options, including appealing the decision.

Source Verification