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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Live updates: Blanche nomination goes up for Senate Judiciary vote

Live updates: Blanche nomination goes up for Senate Judiciary vote

Summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche will have a Senate Judiciary Committee vote to decide if he can become the permanent Attorney General. This vote was delayed last week because two Republican senators said they would not support him, but one senator later made a deal.

Key Facts

  • Todd Blanche is currently the Acting Attorney General.
  • The Senate Judiciary Committee will vote to approve his permanent appointment.
  • The vote was originally scheduled for last week but was postponed.
  • Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis opposed Blanche's nomination before.
  • Senator John Cornyn made a deal that affects his support for Blanche.
  • The vote is happening on a Tuesday morning session.
  • The Attorney General leads the Justice Department and handles legal matters for the U.S. government.
  • This vote is part of the process to confirm Blanche officially in his role.
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Eye Opener: Man accused of starting wildfire in Washington state

Eye Opener: Man accused of starting wildfire in Washington state

Summary

A man was arrested for allegedly starting a wildfire in Washington state that destroyed many homes. President Donald Trump criticized U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro after she dropped vandalism charges linked to the D.C. Reflecting Pool.

Key Facts

  • A wildfire in Washington state destroyed hundreds of homes.
  • A man was arrested for allegedly starting this wildfire.
  • President Donald Trump publicly criticized U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.
  • The criticism came after she dropped vandalism charges related to the D.C. Reflecting Pool.
  • The news was reported in CBS News Eye Opener.
  • The wildfire and the legal case are ongoing stories.
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Washington state Democrat who flipped pro-Trump district faces tough primary

Washington state Democrat who flipped pro-Trump district faces tough primary

Summary

Democratic Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, who won a Republican-leaning district in Washington state, is facing a tough primary with multiple challengers including a progressive Democrat, Brent Hennrich, and a Republican, John Braun. Some local Democrats are unhappy with her voting record, but supporters say she must appeal to moderates to keep the seat and help Democrats win control of the House.

Key Facts

  • Marie Gluesenkamp Perez won Washington’s 3rd congressional district in 2022, flipping it from Republican to Democrat.
  • The district tends to vote Republican in presidential elections, including for President Donald Trump.
  • Gluesenkamp Perez appeals to moderate and rural voters, including some Republicans.
  • She faces a crowded primary with progressive Democrat Brent Hennrich and Republican John Braun among others.
  • Some local Democrats criticize her for voting with Republicans on major bills like the Save Act and decisions related to schools and foreign funding.
  • Other Democrats argue the district is conservative, and Gluesenkamp Perez must take moderate positions to hold the seat.
  • Democrats aim to win this seat as part of their effort to gain majority control of the House in the upcoming midterm election.
  • The primary’s top two finishers will advance to the November general election regardless of party affiliation.
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Man 'driven insane' by noise admits killing fish

Man 'driven insane' by noise admits killing fish

Summary

A 76-year-old man in north London damaged his neighbour’s pond equipment and killed fish because he was upset by the noise from a water pump. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to a conditional discharge and ordered to pay compensation.

Key Facts

  • Gerry Duffy admitted to damaging his neighbour’s pond, water pump, and pipes.
  • He used motor oil and detergent to kill the fish in the pond.
  • Duffy said he acted out of frustration and lack of sleep caused by the pump noise.
  • The incident happened in March in Barnet, north London.
  • Duffy pleaded guilty at Willesden Magistrates' Court.
  • He received a two-year conditional discharge and must pay £565 in compensation.
  • CCTV showed Duffy climbing into his neighbour’s garden to cause the damage.
  • Before the incident, Duffy had warned his neighbour he would take action if noise continued.
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Can Vivek Ramaswamy count on Ohio’s Indian Americans as he struggles to connect with voters?

Can Vivek Ramaswamy count on Ohio’s Indian Americans as he struggles to connect with voters?

Summary

Vivek Ramaswamy, an Indian American and biotech entrepreneur, is running for governor of Ohio with the endorsement of President Donald Trump. Despite early success, his campaign has faced challenges as he struggles to connect with voters, including criticism over his comments and lifestyle, making the race more competitive than expected.

Key Facts

  • Vivek Ramaswamy has Indian immigrant parents and grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio.
  • President Donald Trump endorsed Ramaswamy in February 2025 for Ohio governor.
  • Ramaswamy won the Republican primary with 82% of the vote.
  • His campaign faces challenges like accusations of being out of touch and criticism over his comments about American culture and work ethic.
  • Pollsters recently changed the Ohio governor race rating from "leans Republican" to a "toss-up."
  • Some members of Ohio’s Indian American community support him, but others feel he does not represent their concerns well.
  • He was criticized for spending part of the July Fourth weekend in Paris during his campaign.
  • A security person linked to Ramaswamy’s campaign was arrested on drug charges, leading to the firing of the security company.
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Luigi Mangione seeks to broadcast trial live

Luigi Mangione seeks to broadcast trial live

Summary

Luigi Mangione is accused of killing Brian Thompson, who was the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. Mangione wants the trial to be shown live to the public.

Key Facts

  • Luigi Mangione is charged with a crime related to the death of Brian Thompson.
  • Brian Thompson was the CEO of UnitedHealthcare.
  • The case is being handled by a state court.
  • Mangione has asked to have the trial broadcast live.
  • The trial’s broadcast request aims to provide public access to court proceedings.
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Rosie O’Donnell returning to ‘The View’ for season 30 reunion

Rosie O’Donnell returning to ‘The View’ for season 30 reunion

Summary

Rosie O’Donnell is coming back to the TV show "The View" for a reunion in its 30th season. She had left the show in 2007 after a public disagreement with co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck.

Key Facts

  • Rosie O’Donnell was an original co-host on "The View."
  • She left the show in 2007.
  • Her departure followed a big argument with Elisabeth Hasselbeck during a live broadcast.
  • O’Donnell will return for a special reunion during the show’s 30th season.
  • "The View" is a talk show that discusses current events and culture.
  • The reunion will bring back former hosts to reflect on the show’s history.
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For America First, Closing Consulates Costs More Than It Saves

For America First, Closing Consulates Costs More Than It Saves

Summary

The U.S. State Department plans to close five overseas diplomatic posts as part of broader budget cuts under President Donald Trump’s administration. This follows other reductions, such as fewer visa centers in Africa and changes at USAID, reflecting a focus on lowering government spending rather than maintaining diplomatic presence.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. State Department notified Congress about closing consulates in Japan, Canada, Cameroon, Indonesia, and Grenada.
  • These closures are part of efforts to reduce government spending and improve efficiency.
  • The Trump administration aims to cut non-defense discretionary spending by $163 billion in the 2026 budget.
  • The government debt reached $31.3 trillion in April, about equal to the total U.S. economy’s size.
  • Visa processing centers in Africa will be reduced from nearly 50 to 20.
  • Previous administrations, like President Biden’s, increased diplomatic efforts in the Indo-Pacific to counter China’s influence.
  • Consulates provide important services beyond visas, such as helping Americans overseas in emergencies.
  • The State Department says it evaluates operations to support American priorities efficiently.
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Trump overhaul could gut Head Start preschool standards, leaving states to set the rules

Trump overhaul could gut Head Start preschool standards, leaving states to set the rules

Summary

President Donald Trump's administration is planning major changes to the Head Start program, which helps poor children get early education. The changes would lower the program’s quality rules and give states more control over how the program runs.

Key Facts

  • Head Start is a federal program that provides early education to children living in poverty.
  • The Trump administration wants to change the program’s rules significantly.
  • These changes would reduce the program’s quality standards.
  • States would have more power to decide how to run Head Start.
  • The proposed overhaul could change long-standing parts of the program.
  • The changes aim to shift control from the federal government to individual states.
  • This shift could affect how well the program serves children in need.
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Supreme Court Birthright Citizenship Ruling—3 Things Trump Could Do Next

Supreme Court Birthright Citizenship Ruling—3 Things Trump Could Do Next

Summary

The Supreme Court ruled that children born in the U.S. to parents who are in the country illegally or temporarily are citizens by birth under the 14th Amendment. President Donald Trump's attempt to end birthright citizenship through an executive order was blocked, and the administration missed the deadline to ask the Supreme Court to reconsider. Now, Trump and some Republicans are exploring options like passing new laws or amending the Constitution to change birthright citizenship rules.

Key Facts

  • On June 30, the Supreme Court confirmed children born in the U.S. to unauthorized or temporary residents have citizenship at birth.
  • Trump signed an executive order in January 2025 to stop automatic citizenship for these children, but courts blocked it.
  • The Trump administration did not ask the Supreme Court to review the decision again before the deadline.
  • Some Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senator Mike Lee, say a constitutional amendment might be needed to change birthright citizenship.
  • Changing the Constitution requires approval by two-thirds of Congress and ratification by 38 states, which is very difficult.
  • Trump has asked Congress to pass new laws to limit birthright citizenship instead of waiting for a constitutional amendment.
  • Several Republican lawmakers have introduced bills to restrict automatic citizenship for children born to non-citizen parents.
  • These bills propose changes to existing immigration laws to redefine who qualifies for citizenship at birth.
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Republicans Call for Max Miller To Quit As Deadline Looms

Republicans Call for Max Miller To Quit As Deadline Looms

Summary

Several Republican lawmakers have expressed concern about Representative Max Miller following allegations from his ex-wife’s father, Senator Bernie Moreno, who said Miller should not continue serving in the House. Miller denies the accusations of abuse and has until Wednesday to withdraw from the ballot ahead of a primary for his congressional seat in Ohio.

Key Facts

  • Max Miller is a two-term congressman and former aide to President Donald Trump.
  • Miller is involved in a legal dispute with his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, and denies allegations of abuse.
  • Senator Bernie Moreno, Emily’s father, publicly said Miller should not serve in Congress.
  • Moreno described Miller’s behavior as "erratic and dangerous" and urged him to seek professional help.
  • Miller said Moreno’s statements are politically motivated and untrue.
  • Miller has until a Wednesday deadline to withdraw from the election ballot in Ohio.
  • Some Republican senators, including Roger Marshall and Shelley Moore Capito, have voiced support for Moreno’s call or concern about the allegations.
  • Other Republicans emphasize that elected officials should meet high standards, especially in cases of accusations involving abuse.
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Prisoner early release scheme gives Burnham his first taste of unpopularity

Prisoner early release scheme gives Burnham his first taste of unpopularity

Summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham faced a tough decision to continue an early prisoner release program designed to prevent prison overcrowding. The plan excludes certain sex offenders but still allows some killers to be released early, drawing criticism from the public and victims' families.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham became prime minister and quickly made several popular moves like cutting bus fares.
  • On his first day off, he had to decide on continuing early prisoner releases to avoid overcrowding.
  • The program excludes those convicted of rape, serious child sexual offenses, and grooming.
  • Some prisoners convicted of manslaughter, including the killers of police officer Andrew Harper, are eligible for early release.
  • Burnham said he wanted to do more to limit early releases but reached the legal limits of what he could do.
  • The early release scheme was planned in advance under the Sentencing Act set to begin in September.
  • The scheme aims to ease overcrowding while new prison places are built but causes distress to victims’ families.
  • Burnham had paused the program due to criticism but resumed it because of prison capacity concerns.
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School backpack overload: Heavy bags can strain kids’ bodies

School backpack overload: Heavy bags can strain kids’ bodies

Summary

Heavy school backpacks can cause physical strain for children, especially when they carry laptops, textbooks, and other items daily. Experts recommend keeping backpacks as light as possible and paying attention to signs like difficulty walking or shoulder pain to prevent injury.

Key Facts

  • School backpacks often contain laptops, tablets, textbooks, water bottles, and sports gear.
  • Carrying too much weight can strain children’s bodies and affect their learning.
  • Signs a backpack is too heavy include leaning forward, difficulty walking, and straps digging into shoulders.
  • The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against waiting for pain before reducing backpack weight.
  • Back injuries are uncommon but more likely if a child falls while carrying a heavy backpack.
  • The guideline of backpack weight being no more than 10-15% of a child’s body weight may not fit every child.
  • Teachers suggest children should only carry essential school supplies rather than extra or decorative items.
  • Classroom storage and lockers are not always available, making backpack weight an ongoing concern.
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Trump is making a rare Western trip to talk about the economy, something polls show he’s weak on

Trump is making a rare Western trip to talk about the economy, something polls show he’s weak on

Summary

President Donald Trump is visiting California and Nevada to talk about the economy, border security, and crime. He hopes to help Republicans keep control of Congress in the upcoming November elections by contrasting his policies with those of the Democrats.

Key Facts

  • President Trump will speak at a Republican fundraiser in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, and at an event about the economy in Las Vegas, Nevada.
  • Only 32% of U.S. adults approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, according to a recent AP-NORC poll.
  • Most Americans (69%) say the economy is in poor shape, and many are stressed about the cost of essentials like food and gas.
  • President Trump’s overall approval rating is at 33%, similar to his rating at the same point in his first term.
  • Trump plans to criticize California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat and possible 2028 presidential candidate.
  • The President highlights his efforts to lower taxes, reduce fraud, and fight illegal immigration and crime.
  • Governor Newsom has openly opposed Trump’s policies and recently pointed out California’s plan to raise its minimum wage to $17.40 an hour.
  • Nevada, where Trump will also visit, has a Republican governor and a competitive November election between Republican Joe Lombardo and Democrat Aaron Ford.
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Authorities arrest arson suspect in connection with one of Washington’s devastating wildfires

Authorities arrest arson suspect in connection with one of Washington’s devastating wildfires

Summary

A man named Aaron F. Farinacci was arrested in Spokane, Washington, for allegedly starting one of the major wildfires that destroyed many homes in the area. He faces charges of first-degree arson, which means intentionally setting a fire that causes serious damage.

Key Facts

  • Aaron F. Farinacci is 37 years old and lives in Spokane, Washington.
  • He was arrested on suspicion of first-degree arson.
  • The wildfire he is accused of causing destroyed hundreds of homes and buildings.
  • Spokane is the second-largest city in Washington state.
  • The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office made the arrest.
  • First-degree arson involves deliberately starting a fire that seriously harms property.
  • The wildfire is described as devastating because of the damage it caused.
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Senate candidate Haley Stevens stands firm on backing U.S. military aid to Israel

Senate candidate Haley Stevens stands firm on backing U.S. military aid to Israel

Summary

Michigan Representative Haley Stevens supports continued U.S. military aid to Israel and backs a two-state solution for peace. She is competing in the Michigan Democratic Senate primary against Abdul El-Sayed, who opposes U.S. aid to Israel and has criticized Stevens for accepting donations from pro-Israel groups.

Key Facts

  • Haley Stevens is running for U.S. Senate in Michigan and is currently behind her opponent Abdul El-Sayed in polls.
  • Stevens has received about $60 million in campaign spending on her behalf, including significant support from AIPAC, a pro-Israel group.
  • Abdul El-Sayed criticizes U.S. military aid to Israel and has called actions in Gaza "genocide."
  • Stevens supports a two-state solution and wants long-term peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.
  • Stevens says she has called out Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu for failing to achieve peace.
  • She describes herself as a hardworking candidate focused on serving Michigan for the long term.
  • Stevens accuses her Republican opponent, Mike Rogers, of having strong support from President Trump and large political action committees.
  • The Michigan Senate race is one of the most expensive in the country, with about $80 million spent so far.
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US water facilities targeted by ‘malicious cyber actors’ – who’s to blame?

US water facilities targeted by ‘malicious cyber actors’ – who’s to blame?

Summary

Federal authorities warned that hackers targeted water and wastewater facilities in at least seven US states, with Minnesota experiencing the most disruption. The attacks affected water pressure and led to boil-water notices, but no water contamination has been reported. Officials suspect Iran-backed hackers, though the FBI has not officially confirmed this, and President Donald Trump blamed Minnesota’s leaders for the problems.

Key Facts

  • Cyber-attacks hit water facilities in at least seven US states, with Minnesota being the hardest hit.
  • Thirty water systems in Minnesota faced disruptions such as low water pressure and boil-water notices.
  • There have been no reports of drinking water being contaminated.
  • The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) said hackers exploited internet-connected water systems.
  • Officials believe Iran-backed hackers may be responsible, but no formal accusation has been made by law enforcement.
  • President Donald Trump blamed Minnesota’s government for the cyber-attack issues without providing proof.
  • Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz disagreed with Trump and highlighted the need for a plan to counter such cyber warfare.
  • Similar cyber-attacks on US water systems linked to foreign actors, including Russia and Iran, have occurred in recent years.
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Trump Fed chair’s inflation strategy: leave it to the market | Eduardo Porter

Trump Fed chair’s inflation strategy: leave it to the market | Eduardo Porter

Summary

President Trump’s new Federal Reserve chair, Kevin Warsh, suggested that the market should handle inflation control instead of the Fed acting directly. Warsh indicated that rising bond yields reflect a strong economy, but his approach raised concerns among investors and may weaken the Fed’s credibility.

Key Facts

  • Kevin Warsh is President Trump’s new Federal Reserve chair.
  • Warsh said the market should tighten financial conditions without direct Fed intervention.
  • Inflation in the U.S. is running at double the Fed’s 2% target.
  • Recently, the Fed decided not to raise interest rates despite high inflation.
  • The yield on 30-year U.S. Treasury bonds reached its highest level in 19 years.
  • Stock markets fell after Warsh’s comments and bond market reaction.
  • Investors worry Warsh’s approach may reflect political pressure from President Trump to avoid rate increases.
  • Warsh proposed fewer Fed meetings and press conferences to reduce market guidance.
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San Francisco and LA: Two cities headed in opposite directions

San Francisco and LA: Two cities headed in opposite directions

Summary

The article discusses how San Francisco and Los Angeles, two major cities in California, are developing in different ways. It highlights the changes and challenges each city faces.

Key Facts

  • San Francisco and Los Angeles are both important cities in California.
  • The author has lived in both cities over many years.
  • The two cities have often influenced each other's growth and reputation.
  • Recently, their paths or directions seem to be quite different.
  • Each city is facing its own unique changes and problems.
  • The comparison shows how local cities can evolve separately despite being in the same state.
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Congress should rein in EPA overreach to protect affordable and reliable energy

Congress should rein in EPA overreach to protect affordable and reliable energy

Summary

The article argues that Congress should limit the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) power to ensure energy stays affordable and reliable. It mentions a law called the End EPA Abuse Act as a possible solution.

Key Facts

  • The article focuses on controlling the EPA's authority.
  • It states that limiting the EPA can help keep energy costs low.
  • Reliable energy supply is a concern mentioned in relation to EPA actions.
  • The End EPA Abuse Act is presented as a proposed law to address these issues.
  • Congress has the power to change or limit EPA regulations.
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