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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Overheated chemical tank in southern California ‘will fail’, EPA chief says

Overheated chemical tank in southern California ‘will fail’, EPA chief says

May 24, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A chemical tank containing a flammable substance in Orange County, California, is overheating and at risk of failure, which could cause an explosion. About 50,000 people have been evacuated as officials work to control the situation and prevent a disaster near Disneyland.

Key Facts

  • The chemical tank holds 6,000 to 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate, a flammable chemical used in making plastics and resin.
  • The tank is overheating, and government officials warn it may fail and potentially explode.
  • The worst-case scenario is an explosion that could cause other tanks to explode, prompting large-scale evacuations.
  • Around 50,000 residents near Garden Grove have been evacuated for safety.
  • Firefighters have found a crack in the tank, which may help them plan how to fix the problem.
  • Officials are cooling the tank with water and adding chemicals to nearby tanks to reduce explosion risks.
  • Air quality tests around the area currently show no pollution or danger levels.
  • Two residents have filed a lawsuit against the tank's owner, GKN Aerospace, over the incident and its effects on their safety and property.
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How will Iran war fallout impact upcoming US elections?

How will Iran war fallout impact upcoming US elections?

May 24, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump removed many strong critics from the Republican Party as Americans chose candidates for the November midterm elections. Representative Thomas Massie, known for wanting to release Epstein files, lost his seat. A Democratic report said the party struggles to listen to all voters.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump removed key critics within the Republican Party.
  • Americans voted for candidates who will run in the November midterm elections.
  • Representative Thomas Massie, a prominent politician and advocate for releasing Epstein files, lost his seat.
  • The Democratic Party released a partial report on its performance.
  • The report noted the party has trouble listening to all voters.
  • Host Steve Clemons interviewed Hogan Gidley, a former Trump aide, and Matt Duss, a former adviser to Senator Bernie Sanders.
  • The discussion focused on the challenges both parties face going into the elections.
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Al Jazeera
Van Hollen says DNC Chair Martin should have released 2024 autopsy sooner

Van Hollen says DNC Chair Martin should have released 2024 autopsy sooner

May 24, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senator Chris Van Hollen criticized Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin for waiting too long to release a report analyzing why the Democratic Party lost the 2024 presidential election. Van Hollen said the report was poorly done and not thorough.

Key Facts

  • The report is called an autopsy, meaning it analyzes why the Democrats lost the 2024 election.
  • The report was delayed and kept from the public for some time.
  • Senator Chris Van Hollen is from Maryland and a member of the Democratic Party.
  • Van Hollen spoke about the report on the program “Fox News Sunday.”
  • He described the report as "incredibly shoddy and incomplete."
  • Ken Martin is the Chair of the Democratic National Committee.
  • The autopsy report was meant to help the party understand its defeat.
  • Van Hollen thinks the report should have been released earlier to be more useful.
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The Hill
Trump tells US negotiators 'not to rush' into deal with Iran

Trump tells US negotiators 'not to rush' into deal with Iran

May 24, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

President Donald Trump has told U.S. negotiators not to hurry a deal with Iran, saying both sides should take their time to get the agreement right. Talks involve a possible ceasefire extension, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and discussions about Iran's nuclear program, but some disagreements remain.

Key Facts

  • President Trump said negotiations with Iran are progressing but urged patience to avoid mistakes.
  • The talks cover a 60-day ceasefire extension and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route.
  • Iran and the U.S. have conflicting positions on Iran’s nuclear program; the U.S. wants to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon.
  • The U.S. continues its blockade of Iranian ports until a deal is fully agreed upon and signed.
  • Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, which transports about 20% of the world’s oil, affecting global oil prices.
  • Iranian officials say some issues remain unresolved despite progress in talks.
  • Pakistan is helping mediate the negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.
  • U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the progress significant but incomplete.
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Khanna on Massie’s loss to Gallrein: ‘Sadness, disappointment’

Khanna on Massie’s loss to Gallrein: ‘Sadness, disappointment’

May 24, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Representative Ro Khanna said that Representative Thomas Massie lost his primary election because Massie challenged the Trump administration to release files about Jeffrey Epstein and opposed the war in Iran. Khanna expressed feelings of sadness and disappointment about Massie’s loss.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Thomas Massie lost his primary election to Ed Gallrein.
  • Massie pushed the Trump administration to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • He opposed the possibility of war with Iran.
  • Rep. Ro Khanna commented on the loss during an interview on NBC’s "Meet the Press."
  • Khanna described his reaction as "sadness" and "disappointment."
  • The interview was conducted by host Kristen Welker.
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The Hill
Gunman killed by Secret Service after opening fire outside of White House, officials say

Gunman killed by Secret Service after opening fire outside of White House, officials say

May 24, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

A gunman fired shots at a Secret Service checkpoint near the White House on Saturday night. The Secret Service officers responded and killed the gunman.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened outside the White House.
  • The gunman opened fire at a Secret Service checkpoint.
  • Secret Service agents shot and killed the gunman.
  • The incident occurred on a Saturday night.
  • Officials confirmed the details of the event.
  • No information was given about injuries to Secret Service agents or bystanders.
  • The White House itself was not reported to be breached.
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Kalshi puts Paxton odds in Texas GOP primary at 95 percent

Kalshi puts Paxton odds in Texas GOP primary at 95 percent

May 24, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Prediction market Kalshi estimates that Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has more than a 95% chance of winning the Republican Senate runoff against Senator John Cornyn. The runoff election will take place on Tuesday in Texas.

Key Facts

  • Ken Paxton is the Texas Attorney General and a Republican.
  • John Cornyn is the current Republican Senator from Texas.
  • Kalshi is a prediction market that estimates the chances of election outcomes.
  • Kalshi gives Paxton a 95.6% chance of winning the GOP Senate runoff.
  • The runoff election will be decided on Tuesday in Texas.
  • The race is within the Republican party for the U.S. Senate seat from Texas.
  • Paxton is challenging incumbent Senator Cornyn in this election.
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The Hill
Efforts to stop California chemical leak in Orange County on "new trajectory," officials say

Efforts to stop California chemical leak in Orange County on "new trajectory," officials say

May 24, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Crews working to stop a chemical leak from a tank in Orange County, California, found a crack that could help relieve pressure and change their plan. About 50,000 people remain evacuated while officials try to contain the leak of toxic chemicals from a GKN Aerospace tank.

Key Facts

  • A tank holding around 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate is leaking at GKN Aerospace in Garden Grove, Orange County.
  • The leaking chemical is toxic, prompting evacuation of 50,000 residents.
  • Crews discovered a crack that might release pressure, possibly preventing an explosion or a large toxic gas release.
  • The tank's temperature was rising about one degree per hour, reaching a maximum reading of 100 degrees.
  • Orange County Fire Authority is consulting experts nationwide to find solutions and avoid an explosion or full tank failure.
  • California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, allowing state support and funding.
  • Orange County District Attorney launched an investigation and encouraged insiders to provide information.
  • Two law firms filed a class-action lawsuit against GKN Aerospace for the leak’s impact on residents.
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CBS News
Zeldin says EPA providing ‘flexibility’ by loosening rules for pollutants used in grocery refrigeration

Zeldin says EPA providing ‘flexibility’ by loosening rules for pollutants used in grocery refrigeration

May 24, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under President Donald Trump has relaxed rules on certain pollutants used in grocery store refrigeration. This change allows supermarkets to use powerful greenhouse gases called hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) until 2032.

Key Facts

  • The EPA announced a new rule on Wednesday.
  • This rule loosens restrictions on hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are gases that trap heat in the atmosphere.
  • HFCs used in refrigeration can be up to 1,400 times stronger at warming the planet than carbon dioxide.
  • The rule allows supermarkets to keep using these gases until the year 2032.
  • Lee Zeldin, an EPA official, said this change gives businesses more flexibility.
  • The rule aims to ease pressure on companies that use these substances in commercial refrigeration.
  • The decision is part of the Trump administration’s approach to environmental regulation.
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The Hill
Transcript: Sen. Chris Van Hollen on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," May 24, 2026

Transcript: Sen. Chris Van Hollen on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," May 24, 2026

May 24, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Senator Chris Van Hollen criticized the ongoing war with Iran and expressed concerns about a recent deal allowing Iran more control over the Strait of Hormuz. He also opposed a new $1.8 billion Department of Justice fund meant for people claiming unfair treatment by the government, calling it a "political slush fund" and pushing for limits on who can receive the money.

Key Facts

  • Senator Van Hollen says the war against Iran was a mistake and urged stopping further involvement.
  • The new deal appears to reopen the Strait of Hormuz but may give Iran more control over it.
  • Iran now has a more hardline government, and the deal involves releasing some frozen assets to Iran.
  • The Department of Justice created a $1.8 billion fund for people who say they were wronged by the federal government.
  • Van Hollen calls the fund a political slush fund funded by taxpayers and wants to remove it.
  • He proposes that people who rioted on January 6, assaulted police, convicted sex offenders, or members of Congress should be ineligible for the fund.
  • Senate Republicans are upset about the fund and its impact on passing another bill for immigration enforcement funding.
  • The administration says the fund is transparent and needed, with rules and appointed commissioners overseeing it.
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CBS News
Labour to expand youth work experience and training schemes

Labour to expand youth work experience and training schemes

May 24, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The UK government is increasing youth work experience and training programs to help more young people find jobs. Ministers announced 300,000 new work placements over the next three years to address high youth unemployment and lack of experience.

Key Facts

  • Nearly 1 million young people aged 16-24 in the UK are not in education, work, or training.
  • The government plans 300,000 extra work experience placements in three years.
  • About half of these placements will be through six-week training schemes called Swaps, which include guaranteed job interviews.
  • Young people who took part in these schemes are 13% more likely to have a job two years later.
  • Recent changes aim to tackle the loss of entry-level jobs and disruptions from the pandemic.
  • Experts warn that the UK spends much more on benefits for unemployed youth than on training or employment help.
  • Construction is the largest sector offering these placements.
  • Increasing numbers of young people report mental health and other conditions that affect their ability to work.
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Guardian World
Cornyn Draws Contrast With Massie, Cassidy as He Faces Trump-Backed Paxton

Cornyn Draws Contrast With Massie, Cassidy as He Faces Trump-Backed Paxton

May 24, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Senator John Cornyn is running for reelection in Texas and faces a Republican primary runoff against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is backed by President Donald Trump. Cornyn says he supports Trump’s agenda and sees his race differently from other Republicans who lost primaries after opposing Trump. The runoff will decide who faces a Democratic challenger in the November election.

Key Facts

  • John Cornyn is a four-term U.S. Senator seeking reelection in Texas.
  • Ken Paxton, Texas Attorney General, is running against Cornyn in the Republican primary runoff.
  • President Donald Trump endorsed Paxton, highlighting Cornyn’s delayed support for Trump’s 2024 campaign.
  • Cornyn says he has supported Trump’s agenda but chooses disagreements carefully.
  • The runoff is scheduled for May 26 after no candidate won a majority in the March primary.
  • The winner of the runoff will face Democrat James Talarico in November.
  • The race is seen as a choice between establishment experience (Cornyn) and a more confrontational, Trump-aligned style (Paxton).
  • Some Republican leaders, such as Senate Majority Leader John Thune, support Cornyn and express concern about Paxton’s legal and ethical issues.
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Dr. Deborah Birx says "there's a deep bench" to CDC, FDA to respond to Ebola

Dr. Deborah Birx says "there's a deep bench" to CDC, FDA to respond to Ebola

May 24, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Dr. Deborah Birx said that the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) have many skilled staff ready to respond to an Ebola outbreak. This is true even though neither agency currently has a confirmed leader in place.

Key Facts

  • Dr. Deborah Birx helped coordinate the global response to the 2014 Ebola outbreak.
  • She spoke on the TV program "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan."
  • Birx said the CDC and FDA have a "deep bench," meaning many capable people to manage Ebola response.
  • Neither the CDC nor the FDA currently has a confirmed head or agency leader.
  • Despite this, both agencies are prepared to respond to infectious disease threats like Ebola.
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CBS News
Kevin Hassett says "consumer sentiment" should be renamed "political sentiment"

Kevin Hassett says "consumer sentiment" should be renamed "political sentiment"

May 24, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Kevin Hassett, director of the White House National Economic Council, said that what is called "consumer sentiment" is more about politics than the economy. He suggested renaming it "political sentiment" because it reflects people's political views rather than their economic feelings, even as the stock market reached a record high.

Key Facts

  • Kevin Hassett is the director of the White House National Economic Council.
  • He spoke on the show "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan."
  • The Dow Jones stock market index recently hit an all-time high.
  • At the same time, consumer sentiment ratings dropped to an all-time low.
  • Hassett believes consumer sentiment tracks political opinions more than economic reality.
  • He suggested the term "consumer sentiment" should be changed to "political sentiment."
  • The comment was reported by CBS News.
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CBS News
Bridget Phillipson orders review of hidden childcare charges hitting parents

Bridget Phillipson orders review of hidden childcare charges hitting parents

May 24, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has asked the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to review hidden extra charges parents face in childcare, despite government-funded childcare expansions. The review will look at issues like non-refundable deposits and extra fees that some nurseries charge families, to ensure parents get the promised support.

Key Facts

  • Bridget Phillipson wants the CMA to investigate hidden childcare fees like deposits and mandatory extra charges.
  • The government funds up to 30 hours of free childcare weekly, saving families about £8,000 per child annually.
  • Some nurseries still charge for basics like nappies, meals, and suncream, creating extra costs for parents.
  • A recent survey found that nearly 75% of parents are using their savings to cover additional childcare expenses.
  • The CMA will also check how private equity ownership and other business models may affect childcare costs.
  • The government is expanding free childcare to eligible working parents from when their child is nine months old until school age.
  • A new online tool will help parents understand childcare costs and find local providers.
  • A childcare map pilot program is starting in parts of southwest England to improve access and information.
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Guardian World
Ken Paxton’s Chances of Beating John Cornyn Surge Days Before Election

Ken Paxton’s Chances of Beating John Cornyn Surge Days Before Election

May 24, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s chances of winning the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate have increased significantly after President Donald Trump publicly endorsed him. Paxton will face incumbent Senator John Cornyn in a run-off election, with the winner advancing to the November general election against Democrat James Talarico.

Key Facts

  • President Trump endorsed Ken Paxton, calling him a “true MAGA Warrior” and praising his loyalty.
  • Paxton’s odds of winning the run-off rose from around 60% to 96% after Trump’s endorsement.
  • The run-off election decides who will be the Republican candidate in November’s general election.
  • John Cornyn is the current U.S. Senator seeking to keep his seat and has the support of many establishment Republicans.
  • Paxton has faced legal and ethical controversies, including a past felony securities fraud case, corruption allegations, and an impeachment that led to acquittal.
  • Democrat James Talarico is the expected opponent in the general election and is seen as a strong challenger.
  • Cornyn won the March primary by a narrow margin but did not get more than 50%, triggering the run-off.
  • Cornyn warns voters about Paxton’s controversies and stresses the importance of character in the election.
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Newsweek
Rep. Mike Lawler: "Shameful" that "people feel it's okay to engage" in antisemitic conduct

Rep. Mike Lawler: "Shameful" that "people feel it's okay to engage" in antisemitic conduct

May 24, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Representative Mike Lawler spoke out against antisemitic behavior in the United States. He called it wrong that some people think it is acceptable to act in antisemitic ways, highlighting recent incidents including a comment from Senator Rand Paul’s son.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Mike Lawler is part of the House Problem Solvers Caucus.
  • Lawler and Rep. Josh Gottheimer are working to address the rise of antisemitism in the U.S.
  • Lawler was recently the target of an antisemitic comment by Senator Rand Paul’s son.
  • He described the acceptance of antisemitic conduct as “shameful.”
  • Lawler spoke about this issue on the TV program “Face the Nation.”
  • The Problem Solvers Caucus is a bipartisan group in Congress focused on finding common ground.
  • Antisemitism means hostility or discrimination against Jewish people.
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CBS News
Sen. Chris Van Hollen says "we should get rid of this political slush fund" about DOJ fund

Sen. Chris Van Hollen says "we should get rid of this political slush fund" about DOJ fund

May 24, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Senator Chris Van Hollen criticized a Justice Department fund, calling it a "political slush fund." He expressed hope that Republicans will support ending this fund, which is intended to prevent the misuse of the Justice Department.

Key Facts

  • Senator Chris Van Hollen is a Democrat.
  • He spoke about the Justice Department's anti-weaponization fund.
  • He called the fund a "political slush fund."
  • He said the fund is "really corrupt from the start."
  • He hopes Republicans will want to end this fund.
  • The fund's purpose is to prevent political misuse of the Justice Department.
  • Van Hollen made these comments on the CBS show "Face the Nation."
  • Margaret Brennan was hosting the show during this discussion.
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Trump has ‘alienated’ voters ahead of midterms, Thomas Massie warns after primary loss

Trump has ‘alienated’ voters ahead of midterms, Thomas Massie warns after primary loss

May 24, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, known for opposing some actions of President Donald Trump, lost his primary race after Trump supported his challenger. Massie warned that Trump’s approach may push away some voters and hurt the party’s chances in the November midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • Thomas Massie is a Republican congressman from Kentucky.
  • Massie opposed President Trump on issues like military action against Iran, government spending, and releasing Jeffrey Epstein files.
  • President Trump backed Ed Gallrein, who defeated Massie in the Republican primary.
  • Massie believes Trump has alienated many voters who helped elect him and favored the Republican Party in 2024.
  • Massie plans to stay involved in politics despite losing his seat.
  • The primary race was the most expensive congressional primary in US history.
  • President Trump called Massie “disloyal” and celebrated his defeat.
  • Massie described a group of voters who are disappointed with Trump as having “Trump disappointment syndrome.”
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Guardian US Guardian World
Gunman who opened fire near White House was known to Secret Service

Gunman who opened fire near White House was known to Secret Service

May 24, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

A 21-year-old man fired a gun near the White House and was shot by Secret Service agents. The man, known to the Secret Service for previous attempts to access the White House area, later died in the hospital.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened near a White House checkpoint on Saturday evening.
  • The gunman pulled out a pistol from his bag and fired before agents returned fire.
  • The suspect was taken to a hospital and later died.
  • One bystander was also hit during the shooting, but no agents were injured.
  • The gunman had previously tried to enter the White House area multiple times and was known to the Secret Service.
  • He was arrested before and had a court order barring him from the White House area.
  • President Donald Trump was inside the White House during the incident and praised law enforcement's quick response.
  • The FBI is helping in the investigation alongside the Secret Service and local police.
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