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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

News Wrap: Trump’s ‘working visit’ to Scotland sparks protests

News Wrap: Trump’s ‘working visit’ to Scotland sparks protests

Summary

Former President Trump played golf in Scotland while some local people protested his visit. U.S. House Democrats requested more information about Trump's ties to Epstein. Florida's Governor DeSantis said detainees are being flown out for deportation, and Thailand's acting prime minister agreed in principle to a ceasefire with Cambodia.

Key Facts

  • Former President Trump visited Scotland and played golf at his resort there.
  • Some local people in Scotland protested during Trump's visit.
  • U.S. House Democrats are asking for more details about Trump's relationship with Epstein.
  • Florida Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed detainees are being moved for deportation from a detention center called "Alligator Alcatraz."
  • Thailand's acting prime minister agreed in principle to stop armed conflict with Cambodia.

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Athens suburb residents told to evacuate as wildfires in Greece spread

Athens suburb residents told to evacuate as wildfires in Greece spread

Summary

A wildfire in the suburb of Kryoneri, near Athens, Greece, has forced residents to evacuate. Firefighters are working to control the fire, which is fueled by high temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds.

Key Facts

  • A wildfire is burning in Kryoneri, 20km northeast of Athens, Greece.
  • Residents received evacuation orders via text messages from authorities.
  • Over 145 firefighters, 44 fire engines, 10 planes, and 7 helicopters are fighting the fire.
  • Temperatures are reaching 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit), making the fire spread quickly.
  • The fire's cause is not known yet.
  • Other wildfires are also burning on the Greek islands of Crete, Evia, and Kythera.
  • Greece has asked for additional firefighting planes from the European Union.
  • In total, 52 wildfires have occurred across Greece in the last 24 hours.

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Canadian wildfires prompt New York air quality alert

Canadian wildfires prompt New York air quality alert

Summary

An air quality advisory has been issued for New York City and nearby regions due to smoke from Canadian wildfires. The smoke has led to concerns as the air quality index is expected to exceed 100, which indicates unhealthy air conditions for sensitive individuals.

Key Facts

  • New York state issued an air quality health advisory due to smoke from Canadian wildfires.
  • The advisory covers Long Island, New York City Metro, Lower Hudson Valley, Upper Hudson Valley, and the Adirondacks.
  • The air quality is considered "unhealthy for sensitive groups."
  • The air quality index (AQI) in New York could reach 135, indicating bad air quality.
  • Wildfires in Canada have displaced tens of thousands of people and are affecting air quality in the northern United States.
  • Over 550 fires are currently burning in Canada, with many in Manitoba.
  • 6.1 million hectares (15 million acres) of land have burned in Canada over the past year.
  • Scientists link worsening wildfire seasons to climate change, noting Canada is warming faster than the global average.

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Suspect in custody after multiple people stabbed at Walmart in Michigan, authorities say

Suspect in custody after multiple people stabbed at Walmart in Michigan, authorities say

Summary

Several people were stabbed at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan, and the police have a suspect in custody. The Michigan State Police and the local sheriff’s office are investigating, and they have asked people to stay away from the area.

Key Facts

  • A stabbing incident happened at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan.
  • Several people were injured in this stabbing.
  • The police have a suspect in custody.
  • The Michigan State Police and local sheriff’s office are investigating.
  • Authorities have advised people to avoid the area during the investigation.
  • A Walmart spokesperson mentioned the company is cooperating with police.
  • Traverse City is located about 255 miles northwest of Detroit.

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‘Horrors upon horrors’: How US Congress responded to mass hunger in Gaza

‘Horrors upon horrors’: How US Congress responded to mass hunger in Gaza

Summary

Some members of the United States Congress are criticizing the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where many Palestinian civilians face severe hunger. They blame Israeli policies for the situation and are pushing for more humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, though there has not been a significant change in U.S. policy towards Israel.

Key Facts

  • Images of very thin children from Gaza have prompted some U.S. Congress members to criticize Israel's actions.
  • Over 1,000 Palestinian aid seekers have reportedly died due to lack of food in Gaza.
  • Sen. Bernie Sanders accused the Israeli government of using starvation as a tactic in Gaza.
  • The U.S. House of Representatives recently approved $500 million in missile defense support to Israel.
  • Some congressmembers have described the situation in Gaza as genocidal.
  • Israeli officials claim they are intentionally cutting off aid to Gaza to pressure Palestinians to leave.
  • At least 127 Palestinians have reportedly died from malnutrition in Gaza.
  • Congress members are urging U.S. and Israeli governments to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.

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The people of Gaza are starving and hopes for a temporary ceasefire dashed

Summary

More than two million people in Gaza are facing severe food shortages. Hopes for a brief ceasefire have ended after the United States accused Hamas of not negotiating sincerely.

Key Facts

  • Over two million people live in Gaza.
  • The people in Gaza are experiencing severe hunger.
  • There were talks about a temporary ceasefire in Gaza.
  • The United States claimed that Hamas did not negotiate honestly.
  • As a result, the hopes for a ceasefire have been dashed.

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What it's like to cover the aftermath of deadly flooding?

Summary

Reporters from "All Things Considered" discuss their experiences covering the aftermath of deadly flooding. They share insights on how such events affect the people who survive these disasters.

Key Facts

  • "All Things Considered" is a radio show that reported on flooding aftermaths.
  • The segment is part of a Reporter's Notebook series, where journalists share their experiences.
  • The report focuses on how flooding impacts survivors.
  • No specific flooding event or location is mentioned in the article.
  • The coverage aims to give listeners a deeper understanding of disaster effects.

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'Scotland is already great.' Protesters troll Trump on his golfing trip

'Scotland is already great.' Protesters troll Trump on his golfing trip

Summary

During President Trump's golfing trip to Scotland, many protesters gathered at his resorts and around Scottish cities to express their opposition. Trump faced criticism related to various issues, including his policies and associations, while enjoying leisure time at his properties in Scotland.

Key Facts

  • Protesters gathered in Scotland during Trump's visit, openly showing their dislike with banners and signs.
  • One sign read, "Scotland is already great," referencing Trump's slogan, "Make America Great Again."
  • Most people in Scotland have an unfavorable view of Trump according to a poll, with 71% expressing this opinion.
  • Trump's mother was born in Scotland, which he referenced during his visit.
  • A distant relative of Trump, Janet MacLeod-Trotter, protested his policies and accused him of misusing his heritage.
  • Trump was questioned about his connections to Jeffrey Epstein while in Scotland.
  • Trump mentioned he has the power to pardon Ghislaine Maxwell but hadn't focused on it.
  • Protesters in Edinburgh included people playing bagpipes and carrying signs linking their stance to their Scottish identity.

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Heat advisories, warnings issued for Southeast and Midwest as temperatures soar

Heat advisories, warnings issued for Southeast and Midwest as temperatures soar

Summary

A heat wave is affecting the U.S. Southeast and parts of the Midwest, with temperatures reaching extreme levels. The National Weather Service issued advisories and warnings for many areas, affecting over 30 million people, with little relief expected overnight.

Key Facts

  • A heat wave is impacting the U.S. Southeast and Midwest.
  • The National Weather Service issued heat advisories from central Florida to Virginia.
  • Temperatures in some areas could reach over 100°F (38°C), with heat indexes up to 115°F (46.1°C).
  • Areas affected include Raleigh, Charlotte, Atlanta, and regions in South Carolina.
  • Over 30 million people are expected to experience the extreme heat.
  • Eastern Nebraska, western Iowa, and southern Minnesota are also under heat watches.
  • St. Louis, Missouri, has an extreme heat warning with high temperatures predicted to reach 99°F (37°C).
  • Parts of Iowa experienced storms with heavy rain causing flash flood warnings.

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Trump says Japan is investing $550B in the U.S. at his direction. It may not be a sure thing

Trump says Japan is investing $550B in the U.S. at his direction. It may not be a sure thing

Summary

President Trump announced a trade framework with Japan, stating that Japan would invest $550 billion in the U.S. However, the details are still being negotiated and no formal agreement has been signed. Japan's Cabinet Office mentioned that these investments might involve credit from state-backed financial institutions, but the specifics are undecided, and a written agreement has not been finalized.

Key Facts

  • President Trump claimed Japan would invest $550 billion in the U.S. as part of a new trade deal.
  • The details of this investment are still under negotiation and nothing has been formally written.
  • Japan's investment might come from state-affiliated financial institutions.
  • The investment amount is significant, over 10% of Japan’s total economic output (GDP).
  • There is uncertainty about whether the $550 billion will be new investment or part of existing plans.
  • The trade framework aims to reduce U.S. tariffs on Japanese goods from 25% to 15%.
  • Japan did not confirm all details, and negotiators emphasized the need for a written statement to clarify agreements.
  • The U.S. stated Japan will also buy airplanes and rice as part of the framework.

Source Verification

Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell secures DOJ "limited" immunity: News reports

Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell secures DOJ "limited" immunity: News reports

Summary

Ghislaine Maxwell received limited immunity from the Justice Department to provide truthful answers regarding the child sex trafficking case connected to Jeffrey Epstein. This case has increased pressure on the Trump administration to release related documents, with both political parties involved in the call for transparency. Maxwell is currently appealing her conviction and has answered questions for the Justice Department.

Key Facts

  • Ghislaine Maxwell was given "limited" immunity to answer questions in the Epstein case.
  • The immunity is conditional on her telling the truth.
  • Maxwell spoke with a Deputy Attorney General for about nine hours.
  • Her attorney stated she answered questions about roughly 100 people.
  • This immunity agreement is a common practice in criminal cases.
  • Maxwell is appealing her 20-year prison sentence.
  • There are bipartisan demands for the Trump administration to release documents related to the case.
  • President Trump denied involvement and stated he hasn't considered pardoning Maxwell.

Source Verification

As Trump plays golf in Scotland, protesters take to the streets and decry his visit

As Trump plays golf in Scotland, protesters take to the streets and decry his visit

Summary

President Donald Trump played golf at his course in Scotland while protesters gathered around the country to object to his visit. Trump was accompanied by his son Eric and the U.S. ambassador to Britain, Warren Stephens, during the game. Meanwhile, various protest groups demonstrated in Edinburgh and other locations, expressing dissatisfaction with Trump's presence and policies.

Key Facts

  • President Trump played golf at his Turnberry course in Scotland.
  • Trump was with his son Eric and U.S. ambassador Warren Stephens.
  • Security at the golf course was tight, and protesters were kept away.
  • Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, to protest Trump's visit.
  • Protesters included environmental activists, opponents of Israel's war with Hamas, and pro-Ukraine groups.
  • The protests were organized by a group called "Stop Trump Coalition."
  • Demonstrators carried signs and chanted slogans against Trump.
  • The protests were smaller than previous demonstrations during Trump's 2018 Scotland visit.

Source Verification

Sheriff says a grenade is missing from scene of explosion that killed 3 Los Angeles deputies

Sheriff says a grenade is missing from scene of explosion that killed 3 Los Angeles deputies

Summary

Three deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department died in a grenade explosion at a training facility. They were handling two grenades, one of which exploded while the other is missing. An investigation is underway, and new safety measures are being put in place to prevent such incidents in the future.

Key Facts

  • Three members of the Sheriff’s Department's arson and explosives unit died in a blast.
  • The incident happened at a training facility on July 18.
  • There were two grenades involved; one detonated, and the other is missing.
  • The grenades were believed to be "inert" or inactive before the explosion.
  • An investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms is ongoing.
  • New safety procedures are being implemented for handling explosives.
  • The deputies who died had served for 19, 22, and 33 years.
  • This incident is the department’s worst single loss since 1857.

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Progressive upstarts shake up 2025 mayoral races in challenge to Democrats

Progressive upstarts shake up 2025 mayoral races in challenge to Democrats

Summary

In several U.S. cities, new candidates from the left are challenging current Democratic mayors. These challengers aim to address issues like affordability, poverty, and public spending, and their efforts reflect growing dissatisfaction with the party's traditional leaders.

Key Facts

  • Left-wing candidates are competing in mayoral races in New York City, Minneapolis, Seattle, and Albuquerque.
  • Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist, won New York City's Democratic mayoral primary with a focus on affordability.
  • In Minneapolis, state Senator Omar Fateh, backed by the Democratic Party, is challenging incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey.
  • Katie Wilson in Seattle is running against Mayor Bruce Harrell, criticizing his focus on clearing homeless encampments.
  • In Albuquerque, Alex Uballez, a former U.S. attorney, is running on a platform that supports immigrants and fights income inequality.
  • These races show internal divisions within the Democratic Party and the influence of progressive voters.
  • Incumbent mayors are preparing strong defenses, with some dismissing the nomination processes favoring their opponents.
  • Progressive candidates aim to address issues like high living costs and homelessness, appealing to a diverse voter base.

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Free summer swimming lessons for 6,000 children

Free summer swimming lessons for 6,000 children

Summary

More than 6,000 children in Wiltshire can get up to 10 free swimming lessons this summer. The lessons are available for children in the FUEL programme and those who get free school meals, supported by funding from Wiltshire Council and other sources.

Key Facts

  • More than 6,000 children in Wiltshire are eligible for free swimming lessons this summer.
  • The lessons are part of a pilot programme linked to Wiltshire Council's FUEL initiative.
  • Children eligible for free school meals can also participate.
  • Up to 10 lessons will be held at council-run leisure centers with pools.
  • The programme is funded with £45,000 from Public Health England and children's services budgets.
  • Parents need to provide proof of free school meal eligibility to join.
  • Swimming lessons will be offered in various locations, including Marlborough and Calne.
  • The scheme will be reviewed in the autumn after it ends.

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Trump ignites chain reaction with early redistricting gamble

Trump ignites chain reaction with early redistricting gamble

Summary

The Trump administration is actively working to redraw congressional district maps to gain more Republican seats before the midterm elections. This redistricting effort is causing intense competition between Republicans and Democrats, who are finding it difficult to counter without legal or electoral intervention.

Key Facts

  • The Trump White House is working on redrawing congressional maps to increase Republican seats before the midterms.
  • Redistricting usually happens every ten years after the census, with the next census in 2030.
  • Republicans hope to gain several seats in states like Texas, Ohio, and Missouri through this redistricting.
  • In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott included redistricting in the special session agenda after Trump’s encouragement.
  • Texas Democrats are considering tactics like breaking quorum to stop a vote on redistricting.
  • Democrats, led by California Governor Gavin Newsom, are planning to create new Democratic seats in response.
  • Other Democratic-majority states like New York and Illinois face constitutional limits on redistricting.
  • If Democrats win the House, it would hinder Trump's legislative goals and might lead to impeachment, as happened in 2018.

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Southwest flight headed to Las Vegas takes dramatic plunge in response to nearby aircraft

Southwest flight headed to Las Vegas takes dramatic plunge in response to nearby aircraft

Summary

A Southwest Airlines flight from Southern California to Las Vegas quickly dropped 300 feet after takeoff to avoid another plane. This sudden movement injured two flight attendants and left passengers frightened. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the incident.

Key Facts

  • A Southwest Airlines plane from Southern California to Las Vegas dropped suddenly over 300 feet.
  • The drop was in response to an alert about a nearby plane.
  • Two flight attendants were injured during this event.
  • Some passengers were out of their seats due to the sudden movement.
  • The plane landed safely in Las Vegas without further issues.
  • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is looking into what happened.
  • The incident happened shortly after the plane took off from Hollywood Burbank Airport.
  • Southwest Airlines stated the crew responded to alerts that required sudden altitude changes.

Source Verification

Trump-Epstein saga splinters the Murdoch empire

Trump-Epstein saga splinters the Murdoch empire

Summary

Rupert Murdoch's media companies are covering a story about an alleged letter from Trump to Jeffrey Epstein in different ways. The Wall Street Journal broke the story, while Fox News has paid less attention to it. Trump is suing the Journal and Murdoch over this coverage but has limited power to influence Murdoch’s media strategy.

Key Facts

  • Rupert Murdoch owns both Fox News and The Wall Street Journal.
  • The Wall Street Journal reported on an alleged letter from Trump to Epstein, but Fox News has not highlighted this story.
  • President Trump is suing The Wall Street Journal and Murdoch because of this coverage.
  • News Corp.'s share price has more than doubled since Trump took office.
  • Fox Corp.'s shares have increased by 39% since it started trading independently in 2019.
  • Trump's relationship with Fox News has been important for his political strategy.
  • Fox News ratings are very strong and continue to grow.
  • The Wall Street Journal has gained over 3 million new digital subscribers since 2016.

Source Verification

Get ready, Brazil. The 'good mosquitoes' are coming

Get ready, Brazil. The 'good mosquitoes' are coming

Summary

A factory in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is breeding special mosquitoes that can't spread diseases like dengue because they carry a bacteria called Wolbachia. The Brazilian government is using these mosquitoes to help reduce disease levels across the country, where dengue has affected millions of people.

Key Facts

  • A factory in Rio de Janeiro breeds mosquitoes that carry a bacteria called Wolbachia.
  • These mosquitoes can't spread dengue because the bacteria prevents the dengue virus from surviving in them.
  • The Brazilian government is investing in these mosquitoes to fight diseases they spread.
  • Dengue can cause severe symptoms like fever, internal bleeding, and organ failure.
  • Brazil is heavily affected by dengue, with over 3.1 million cases reported this year.
  • Warmer, wetter climates are helping dengue spread to new areas, including Europe and North America.
  • Dengue has had a significant impact on people's lives in Brazil, leading to many deaths.

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Even megastars like Venus Williams get the health insurance blues

Even megastars like Venus Williams get the health insurance blues

Summary

Venus Williams, a professional tennis player, returned to competitive play partly to regain her health insurance benefits. She mentioned needing the coverage due to her frequent medical needs and the conditions of her tennis career.

Key Facts

  • Venus Williams returned to tennis competition at the Mubadala Citi DC Open after a break.
  • She stated her return was partly motivated by the need for health insurance benefits.
  • Most working-age Americans get health insurance through their jobs.
  • Williams previously had health insurance through the Women's Tennis Association (WTA).
  • Williams is currently on COBRA, a program allowing continued coverage after leaving a job, but it requires paying the full premium.
  • COBRA insurance can be very costly, often similar to a mortgage payment.
  • Williams needs regular medical care due to past surgeries, an autoimmune condition, and her status as an elite athlete.
  • The Affordable Care Act improved options for athletes like Williams who would have struggled to get coverage in the past.

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