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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Top US arts camp and boarding school to demolish Jeffrey Epstein lodge

Top US arts camp and boarding school to demolish Jeffrey Epstein lodge

May 27, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A Michigan arts camp and boarding school, Interlochen Center for the Arts, will tear down a lodge once named after Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein had donated money to the school and attended as a teenager but has been accused of meeting victims there in the 1990s.

Key Facts

  • Interlochen Center for the Arts will demolish the Green Lake Lodge, formerly called the Jeffrey E Epstein Scholarship Lodge.
  • Epstein attended Interlochen in 1967 and donated over $400,000 to the school between 1990 and 2003.
  • Epstein’s name was removed from the lodge after his first conviction in 2008.
  • At least two of Epstein’s accusers said they met him at Interlochen in the 1990s.
  • The school is conducting an external investigation into historical misconduct claims involving Epstein.
  • Internal reviews found no records of Epstein-related misconduct at Interlochen.
  • Epstein regularly visited the school, sometimes with Ghislaine Maxwell, and used the lodge.
  • Epstein died by suicide in jail in 2019 while facing sex trafficking charges; Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Trump is getting the Republican candidates he wants, but can he win in the midterms?

Trump is getting the Republican candidates he wants, but can he win in the midterms?

May 27, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump has successfully supported Republican candidates in recent primary elections, including Ken Paxton's win in Texas. However, some Republicans worry that Trump's strong influence on the party might hurt their chances in the November midterm elections due to voter dissatisfaction with his second term and economic issues.

Key Facts

  • President Trump endorsed Ken Paxton, who won a runoff election in Texas against Senator John Cornyn.
  • Senator John Cornyn lost his seat despite avoiding conflict with President Trump.
  • Trump's influence is growing stronger within the Republican Party.
  • Some Republicans are concerned that Trump's control might make it harder to win in the midterms.
  • Voters are unhappy with Trump's second term and the state of the economy.
  • Ongoing economic problems are linked to Trump's trade policies and actions related to Iran.
  • Republican operatives worry about the effect of these issues on voter turnout and support.
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PBS NewsHour
Pence on last call to Trump: ‘It’s been a while’

Pence on last call to Trump: ‘It’s been a while’

May 27, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Former Vice President Mike Pence said on Wednesday that it has been some time since he last talked to President Donald Trump. He made this comment during an interview in Michigan.

Key Facts

  • Mike Pence is the former Vice President of the United States.
  • President Donald Trump is currently serving his second term as U.S. President.
  • Pence told a reporter that he has not spoken to President Trump for a while.
  • The interview took place in Michigan.
  • The question was asked by Roop Raj from FOX2-TV in Detroit.
  • Pence did not specify exactly how long it has been since the last conversation.
  • The topic highlights the current lack of communication between Pence and President Trump.
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The Hill
Justice Dept. to start fast-tracking benefits fraud enforcement

Justice Dept. to start fast-tracking benefits fraud enforcement

May 27, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The U.S. Department of Justice will speed up the review of whistleblower complaints about fraud in government benefit programs like Medicare. This faster process aims to catch fraud more quickly and use resources better, focusing on serious cases that misuse taxpayer money.

Key Facts

  • The Justice Department will decide on whistleblower fraud complaints within 60 to 120 days, which is faster than usual.
  • These complaints, often filed by private individuals called relators, deal with fraud against federal programs.
  • The False Claims Act is the main law used to fight benefit program fraud.
  • If a fraud claim is successful, the person who reported it can get a share of the recovered money.
  • The Trump administration has made fighting fraud in Medicare and healthcare a top priority.
  • In April, the DOJ created a new Fraud Division and a task force led by Vice President JD Vance to tackle fraud.
  • California has its own task force focused especially on hospice fraud, with many cases brought by state officials.
  • CBS News has reported that over 700 hospices in Los Angeles show signs of potential fraud according to state auditors’ indicators.
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CBS News
Company led by Republican fundraiser pardoned by Trump wins $106m federal contract

Company led by Republican fundraiser pardoned by Trump wins $106m federal contract

May 27, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

President Donald Trump pardoned Elliott Broidy in 2021 after Broidy pleaded guilty to illegal lobbying. Recently, Broidy's company won a $106 million federal contract to use artificial intelligence to monitor prison phone calls.

Key Facts

  • Elliott Broidy pleaded guilty in 2020 to trying to illegally lobby President Trump’s administration.
  • President Trump pardoned Broidy on the last day of his first term in 2021.
  • Broidy is the founder and CEO of LEO Technologies, a company that won a $106 million contract from the Department of Justice.
  • The contract is to use AI to translate, transcribe, and monitor prison phone calls through the Bureau of Prisons.
  • LEO Technologies had previously worked with state and local prisons but this is their first federal contract.
  • Broidy has a history of legal issues, including a 2009 fraud case and a 2020 guilty plea related to foreign lobbying.
  • There is no proof that Broidy’s pardon or political connections influenced the awarding of the contract.
  • Broidy’s company says he sets company strategy but does not handle daily operations.
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Guardian World Guardian US
How much money you need to earn to afford a home in 49 U.S. cities

How much money you need to earn to afford a home in 49 U.S. cities

May 27, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

U.S. workers' pay has increased about 4% this year, with median household income around $88,000. However, to afford the average home, households need about $116,780 a year, making homeownership unaffordable for many in most large U.S. cities.

Key Facts

  • Median household income in the U.S. is roughly $88,000 as of April.
  • The average U.S. home costs about $418,000.
  • Households need an income of around $116,780 annually to afford the average home.
  • This needed income is down from a peak estimate of $122,000 in mid-2025.
  • In 41 of 49 big U.S. cities, the median salary is not enough to buy a home.
  • San Francisco is the most expensive city; a person would need nearly $444,000 a year to afford a home.
  • Some Midwest cities, like Detroit and Cleveland, have affordable housing where median incomes are enough to buy a home.
  • More than 80% of Americans find it harder to buy a home now compared to previous generations.
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Platner holds 9-point lead over Collins in new poll

Platner holds 9-point lead over Collins in new poll

May 27, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

A recent poll shows Maine oyster farmer Graham Platner leading Senator Susan Collins by 9 points ahead of their election in November. The poll surveyed likely voters and found Platner at 51% support and Collins at 42%.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is an oyster farmer from Maine.
  • Senator Susan Collins represents Maine and is a Republican.
  • The poll was conducted by the University of New Hampshire.
  • It was released on a Wednesday before the November election.
  • Platner received 51% support from likely voters in the poll.
  • Collins received 42% support from likely voters.
  • The gap between Platner and Collins is 9 percentage points.
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The Hill
ICE detainees dying by suicide at 'alarming' rate, AP investigation finds

ICE detainees dying by suicide at 'alarming' rate, AP investigation finds

May 27, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

An Associated Press investigation found that since President Donald Trump took office in January 2025, at least 10 people held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have died by suicide. This is a sharp increase compared to previous years and raises concerns about mental health care and oversight in ICE detention centers.

Key Facts

  • At least 10 ICE detainees have died by suicide since January 2025, mostly men in their early 30s.
  • Seven of these suicides happened since October 2025, the highest number ever recorded in a single year for ICE.
  • Nine of the deceased were Hispanic men from four countries; one was from China.
  • Seven of the 10 had no record of violent crimes in the U.S.
  • Nearly 20% of the 51 deaths in ICE custody since January 2025 were due to suicide.
  • Experts say many deaths could be prevented with timely medical and mental health care.
  • ICE officials say suicides in custody are rare and that staff follow protocols, including suicide prevention training.
  • Colombia’s president called for a formal protest over one detainee’s suicide and urged the U.S. to reconsider its immigration policies.
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PBS NewsHour
Matthew Perry's assistant sentenced to 41 months for role in the actor's death

Matthew Perry's assistant sentenced to 41 months for role in the actor's death

May 27, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Matthew Perry’s personal assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, was sentenced to 41 months in prison for his role in providing the actor with ketamine before Perry's death in October 2023. Iwamasa, who had no medical training, injected Perry multiple times and worked with others to supply the drug, which led to Perry’s overdose death.

Key Facts

  • Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in assistant, was sentenced to 41 months in prison.
  • Iwamasa injected Perry with ketamine and helped get the drug from suppliers.
  • Matthew Perry died in October 2023, found in his backyard hot tub.
  • The cause of death involved ketamine overdose and drowning as a contributing factor.
  • Iwamasa pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death.
  • Five people involved in supplying ketamine to Perry pleaded guilty.
  • Other defendants, including a dealer called the “Ketamine Queen,” have been sentenced to prison or other punishments.
  • Perry’s family expressed strong feelings about Iwamasa’s role, emphasizing his responsibility to protect Perry.
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BBC Top Stories BBC US BBC World
Trump admin to block Ebola-exposed Americans from US, move them to Kenya

Trump admin to block Ebola-exposed Americans from US, move them to Kenya

May 27, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

The Trump administration announced stricter travel bans related to the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa, barring even U.S. citizens and residents who have recently traveled to affected countries from entering the United States. Instead of bringing exposed Americans back to the U.S. for treatment, the government is planning to establish a quarantine and care facility in Kenya.

Key Facts

  • The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo started in May and is currently very large, with over 1,000 cases and more than 200 deaths reported by the World Health Organization.
  • The Trump administration expanded travel bans to block U.S. citizens and permanent residents who traveled to the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan in the past 21 days.
  • Uganda and South Sudan have very low or no reported Ebola cases, but their travelers are also banned.
  • The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is trying to increase airport health screening but faces staff shortages and budget cuts.
  • American citizens exposed to Ebola are being sent to other countries like Germany and the Czech Republic for treatment and monitoring instead of the U.S.
  • Plans to set up an Ebola treatment and quarantine facility in Kenya for Americans are underway but not yet approved by Kenyan authorities.
  • Public health experts warn that travel bans and border closures can hinder outbreak responses and cause economic and social problems.
  • The Africa CDC has publicly stated that general travel restrictions are not effective during outbreaks and may cause fear and operational difficulties.
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Ars Technica
ICE-Detained Mom Granted Green Card by Judge for 2 Months: What's Next?

ICE-Detained Mom Granted Green Card by Judge for 2 Months: What's Next?

May 27, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Elvira Benitez Suarez, a mother of four who lived in the U.S. for over 36 years, was detained by immigration authorities for more than two months. An immigration judge granted her lawful permanent resident status, and she was released on bond while the government appeals the decision.

Key Facts

  • Elvira Benitez Suarez is 51 years old and lives in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin.
  • She was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) starting in March during a routine immigration appointment.
  • She has lived in the U.S. since she was 15, after fleeing Mexico due to assault.
  • She has four children who are U.S. citizens and runs a cleaning business with her husband.
  • An immigration judge granted her green card eligibility after a cancellation-of-removal hearing.
  • The federal government is appealing the judge’s decision, with briefs due by June 8.
  • Despite winning in court, she was re-detained while awaiting the appeal.
  • Her attorney criticizes how long legal immigration cases take and the detention of long-term community members.
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Newsweek
Chaos breaks out at New Jersey immigration detention center – in pictures

Chaos breaks out at New Jersey immigration detention center – in pictures

May 27, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

A protest took place outside Delaney Hall, an immigration detention center in New Jersey. Inside, detainees were on a hunger and labor strike, while outside, protesters clashed with federal agents during demonstrations.

Key Facts

  • Delaney Hall is an immigration detention center located in New Jersey.
  • Detainees inside the facility were on a hunger and labor strike.
  • Protesters gathered outside holding signs and blocking access.
  • Federal agents responded by pushing protesters back and using chemical irritants and a Taser.
  • There were also confrontations between supporters and opponents of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement).
  • Vehicles were allowed to leave the facility during the protest.
  • Signs outside the detention center called it a “concentration camp.”
  • Some detainees were released during or after the protest.
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Guardian US
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‘We are not criminals’: protests erupt as hunger strike rocks New Jersey ICE jail

‘We are not criminals’: protests erupt as hunger strike rocks New Jersey ICE jail

May 27, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Protesters and immigration detainees at a New Jersey ICE jail have staged a hunger and work strike to demand better living conditions and the timely processing of their immigration cases. The strike has led to clashes between federal officers and demonstrators outside the facility, which is operated by a private company under contract with ICE.

Key Facts

  • About 300 to 400 detainees at the Newark-based Delaney Hall ICE facility are on hunger and labor strike.
  • Detainees demand improved food, ventilation, medical care, and progress on their immigration cases.
  • The facility is run by Geo Group, a large private prison company operating under ICE.
  • Protests have resulted in violence, with federal officers using pepper spray and Tasers on demonstrators.
  • Senator Andy Kim and other lawmakers have visited the site and criticized the conditions.
  • The Trump administration is continuing a widespread immigration enforcement and deportation effort.
  • Some detainees reported being arrested during routine immigration check-ins despite having legal cases.
  • Geo Group claims it provides medical care, legal access, and monitored services to detainees.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Trump administration has paid $20bn in tariff refunds, with at least $65bn more to come

Trump administration has paid $20bn in tariff refunds, with at least $65bn more to come

May 27, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

The US government has refunded $20 billion in tariffs to importers after the Supreme Court ruled that President Trump exceeded his authority in imposing those tariffs. About $65 billion more in refunds is expected, as many companies and businesses seek repayment for the tariffs they paid.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court struck down tariffs imposed by President Trump in February.
  • US Customs and Border Protection has refunded $20 billion so far, with $65 billion more expected.
  • Trump’s tariffs included a baseline 10% fee on all imports.
  • Many US businesses, including Walmart and Jim Beam, faced higher costs and disruptions due to the tariffs.
  • After the ruling, major retailers and business groups pushed for quick refunds of a total $133 billion in tariffs.
  • Companies like FedEx sued the government to get refunds; others used a special refund portal.
  • Tariffs raised costs for American households by about $1,000 on average in 2025.
  • President Trump later introduced a new 10% tariff using a different legal method, but the US trade court ruled against it in May.
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Guardian US
Sharon Alfonsi to depart ’60 Minutes’

Sharon Alfonsi to depart ’60 Minutes’

May 27, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Journalist Sharon Alfonsi is leaving the TV news program "60 Minutes" after her contract ended recently. She said CBS News leadership, now owned by Paramount, chose not to renew her contract, and she expressed concerns about the company's management.

Key Facts

  • Sharon Alfonsi worked as a journalist on "60 Minutes."
  • Her contract with the show ended over the past weekend.
  • Alfonsi claims the program decided not to renew her contract.
  • CBS News is now owned by the company Paramount.
  • Alfonsi criticized the leadership at CBS News under Paramount.
  • She said this decision sends a warning to others in the company.
  • Alfonsi shared these details with The New York Times.
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The Hill
Catholic priest said ‘we are but men’ when challenged over sex with parishioner, court hears

Catholic priest said ‘we are but men’ when challenged over sex with parishioner, court hears

May 27, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A Catholic priest, Anthony Odiong, is on trial in Texas for sexually abusing women who sought his spiritual guidance. He faces several charges including sexual assault, and he has denied the allegations.

Key Facts

  • Anthony Odiong is a Roman Catholic priest accused of sexually abusing female congregants.
  • The trial is taking place in Waco, Texas.
  • A son of one victim testified he caught Odiong having sex with his mother in 2011.
  • Odiong responded with “we are but men” when confronted about the incident.
  • The priest continued his career for years, including studying in Rome and working in Louisiana.
  • Multiple women have accused Odiong of sexual coercion, unwanted touching, and financial abuse.
  • Texas law considers it assault for clergy to exploit congregants’ emotional dependence for sex.
  • Odiong pleaded not guilty to five first-degree and two second-degree sexual assault charges and faces possible life imprisonment.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Migrants jailed and charged after bank holiday crossings

Migrants jailed and charged after bank holiday crossings

May 27, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Several migrants who crossed the English Channel into the UK over the bank holiday weekend were charged with illegal immigration crimes, and some were sent to jail. The UK authorities are also targeting people who organize the crossings and are working with France to stop small boat journeys.

Key Facts

  • Three migrants from Turkey, Algeria, and Albania pleaded guilty to entering the UK without permission and were sentenced to eight months in prison.
  • Three others from Sudan and Iran were charged with putting lives at risk during the sea crossing and will face court hearings.
  • Nearly 1,000 migrants crossed the Channel on small boats between Friday and Monday during calm weather.
  • The number of migrants crossing so far in 2026 is 8,565, which is 37% lower than last year.
  • The Crown Prosecution Service quickly authorized charges after receiving evidence from the police.
  • UK and French governments made a £662 million deal to increase enforcement on beaches and catch people smugglers.
  • The deal includes using drones, helicopters, cameras, and sending trained police officers to French beaches.
  • UK officials are working with international partners to break up crime groups behind these crossings.
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BBC Top Stories
California veteran known for pro-Trump display outside his home dies after assault

California veteran known for pro-Trump display outside his home dies after assault

May 27, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Kerry Sheron, a 69-year-old US Army veteran in Southern California known for displaying pro-President Trump flags, died after being assaulted outside his home. Thomas Butler, a 32-year-old Navy veteran, was arrested on several charges including attempted murder.

Key Facts

  • Kerry Sheron was attacked on May 20 outside his Escondido, California, home.
  • Sheron had a well-known display of US flags and signs supporting President Trump.
  • Thomas Butler was arrested at the scene and faces charges of attempted murder, elder abuse, and battery.
  • Sheron suffered a punch to the jaw, fell, and was hit several times before being taken to the hospital.
  • Authorities are still investigating the motive and have not confirmed if it was politically motivated.
  • Sheron’s family and some public officials believe the attack was linked to his political views.
  • Butler remains in custody with no bail and will appear in court on June 3.
  • California Senate minority leader Brian Jones described the attack as a murder motivated by Sheron’s support for freedom and President Trump.
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Map Shows How Property Taxes Compare Across the US as Florida Pushes Relief

Map Shows How Property Taxes Compare Across the US as Florida Pushes Relief

May 27, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is calling a special legislative session to add a plan to the November ballot that would reduce or eliminate property taxes for many homeowners in Florida. The proposal aims to exempt the first $250,000 of a home's value from property taxes, eventually raising that exemption to $500,000, potentially eliminating property taxes for up to 92% of Florida homeowners. Critics warn that cutting property taxes could reduce funding for schools and local services.

Key Facts

  • Governor Ron DeSantis wants a special session to let voters decide on cutting or removing property taxes on homesteads in Florida.
  • The plan would first exempt $250,000 of a home's value from taxes, then later increase the exemption to $500,000.
  • Initially, this would eliminate property taxes for 60% of Florida homeowners, and later for 92%.
  • Property tax revenue in Florida has grown from $32 billion to $60 billion in seven years due to rising home values.
  • Property taxes fund schools, police, fire departments, and other local services.
  • Critics say cutting property taxes may cause local government funding problems and create unstable finances.
  • Florida's average property tax rate in 2024 was 0.76%, ranking it 24th lowest in the United States.
  • The proposal includes rules to ensure tax revenue is used for specific services like education and public safety.
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Newsweek
Man shot during prayer service, suspects at large: Police

Man shot during prayer service, suspects at large: Police

May 27, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

A 26-year-old man was shot several times during a prayer service at Canterbury Park Expo Center in Shakopee, Minnesota. Police are searching for the suspects and have asked the public to provide any information.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened just before 10 a.m. on May 27, 2026.
  • The location was Canterbury Park Expo Center, about 25 miles from Minneapolis.
  • The victim is a 26-year-old man who was shot multiple times.
  • He was taken to Hennepin County Medical Center; his condition is unknown.
  • Police stated they are actively trying to identify the suspects involved.
  • Anyone with information is asked to contact the Shakopee Police Department at 952-445-1411.
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ABC News
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