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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Thom Tillis: Ken Paxton a ‘failure,’ would be anchor on GOP Senate

Thom Tillis: Ken Paxton a ‘failure,’ would be anchor on GOP Senate

Summary

Senator Thom Tillis criticized Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, saying Paxton is a failure and should not be in the U.S. Senate. This comes after President Trump endorsed Paxton over the current Senator John Cornyn in the Texas Republican runoff election.

Key Facts

  • Thom Tillis is a Republican Senator from North Carolina.
  • Ken Paxton is the Texas Attorney General and a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate.
  • President Donald Trump endorsed Ken Paxton in the Texas Senate GOP runoff.
  • The runoff is between Ken Paxton and incumbent Senator John Cornyn.
  • Tillis publicly said Paxton is a failure and should not be a senator.
  • Tillis made these comments during an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union.”
  • The Texas Senate race is important for the Republican Party’s control in the Senate.
  • Ken Paxton faces legal and ethical challenges that critics highlight.
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Douglas McCain, the eldest son of Sen. John McCain, dies at 66

Douglas McCain, the eldest son of Sen. John McCain, dies at 66

Summary

Douglas McCain, the oldest son of the late Senator John McCain, died suddenly at age 66. He served six years as a Navy pilot and later worked for American Airlines. His family and the McCain Institute honored him as a joyful man and patriot.

Key Facts

  • Douglas McCain was 66 years old at the time of his death on May 20.
  • He was the eldest son of Senator John McCain, who died in 2018.
  • Douglas served as a Navy pilot flying A-6 Intruders for six years.
  • After the Navy, he worked as a pilot at American Airlines.
  • He was married to Ashley McCain and had two children, Caroline and Douglas.
  • John McCain adopted Douglas after marrying Carol Shepp in 1965.
  • The McCain Institute described Douglas as a patriot and friend.
  • Douglas is survived by his wife, children, mother Carol Shepp, and siblings.
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Trump touts a potential agreement with Iran

Trump touts a potential agreement with Iran

Summary

President Donald Trump said on social media that the United States and Iran have mostly reached an agreement after weeks of talks. Some Republicans, however, have expressed doubts about trusting Iran.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced a near agreement with Iran.
  • The announcement came after several weeks of diplomatic efforts.
  • The agreement has not been finalized yet.
  • Some Republican leaders have warned that Iran may not be trustworthy.
  • The news was reported by CBS News and shared on their app and platforms.
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Tillis: Hegseth makes Noem look like ‘five-star recruit’

Tillis: Hegseth makes Noem look like ‘five-star recruit’

Summary

Senator Thom Tillis criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, saying he does not meet the same standard as former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who was removed earlier this year by President Donald Trump. Tillis also expressed concerns about Hegseth’s management related to the situation involving Iran.

Key Facts

  • Senator Thom Tillis represents North Carolina and is retiring at the end of this Congress.
  • Tillis criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s performance.
  • He compared Hegseth unfavorably to former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
  • Kristi Noem was dismissed earlier this year by President Donald Trump.
  • The criticism included concerns about Hegseth’s handling of issues connected to Iran.
  • Tillis made these comments during a public statement on Sunday.
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Tillis slams emerging Iran deal, offers sharp criticism for Pete Hegseth

Tillis slams emerging Iran deal, offers sharp criticism for Pete Hegseth

Summary

Senator Thom Tillis from North Carolina criticized a new peace deal being discussed with Iran. He said he would not support the deal because it allows Iran to keep some nuclear materials.

Key Facts

  • Senator Thom Tillis is a Republican from North Carolina.
  • Tillis spoke against an emerging peace agreement with Iran.
  • He said the deal allows Iran to keep certain nuclear materials.
  • Tillis said this part of the deal does not make sense to him.
  • Other Republicans have also criticized the peace deal.
  • Tillis expressed his concerns during a Sunday statement.
  • He specifically offered sharp criticism toward Pete Hegseth in relation to the deal.
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Passage: In memoriam

Passage: In memoriam

Summary

On Memorial Day, CBS News program "Sunday Morning" honored U.S. military members who have died. This includes those killed since the start of conflict with Iran.

Key Facts

  • The memorial tribute aired on Memorial Day.
  • It was part of the CBS News show "Sunday Morning."
  • The program remembered U.S. service members who died in military service.
  • It specifically mentioned those killed since the beginning of the war with Iran.
  • Memorial Day is a U.S. holiday to honor fallen military personnel.
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Megyn Kelly says MAGA down to ‘Trump diehards’ who ‘love Mark Levin’

Megyn Kelly says MAGA down to ‘Trump diehards’ who ‘love Mark Levin’

Summary

Conservative commentator Megyn Kelly said that President Trump’s MAGA movement has become much smaller. She described it as a group of loyal supporters who strongly follow President Trump and like commentator Mark Levin.

Key Facts

  • Megyn Kelly is a conservative commentator.
  • She spoke about the current state of the MAGA movement.
  • According to Kelly, the MAGA movement is now much smaller than before.
  • She described the remaining supporters as "diehard loyalists."
  • Kelly said these supporters tend to strongly support President Trump.
  • She also mentioned that they like Mark Levin, a conservative radio host.
  • The interview was published on a Friday.
  • The focus was on changes within the MAGA movement.
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Will the Texas primary run-off give Democrats a chance to flip the state?

Will the Texas primary run-off give Democrats a chance to flip the state?

Summary

Texas Republicans will hold a run-off election to choose their Senate candidate between Attorney General Ken Paxton, endorsed by President Donald Trump, and Senator John Cornyn. The winner will face Democrat James Talarico in November, with Democrats seeing a possible chance to win a statewide seat for the first time since 1994 because Paxton faces several controversies.

Key Facts

  • Texas Republicans are holding a Senate primary run-off between Ken Paxton and John Cornyn.
  • President Donald Trump endorsed Ken Paxton in the run-off.
  • The winner will compete against Democrat James Talarico in the November midterm elections.
  • Democrats have not won a statewide seat in Texas since 1994, but recent races have become more competitive.
  • Ken Paxton has faced accusations including adultery, securities fraud, and support for the January 6 insurrection.
  • Paxton focuses his campaign on border security and tax cuts, and opposes Big Tech companies.
  • Some Texas Republicans worry that Paxton's controversies could hurt the party’s chances in the general election.
  • Polls suggest a Paxton nomination could reduce Republican support by 5-8 points in other races.
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Rand Paul pushes back on GOP criticisms of Trump-Iran tentative deal

Rand Paul pushes back on GOP criticisms of Trump-Iran tentative deal

Summary

Senator Rand Paul is defending President Donald Trump’s ongoing talks to reach a deal that could end the conflict with Iran. Paul disagrees with other Republicans who are criticizing the negotiations and believes they should support the effort.

Key Facts

  • Senator Rand Paul is from Kentucky and a member of the Republican Party.
  • He has expressed criticism of the war and supported limits on President Trump’s war powers in the past.
  • The Trump administration is working on a deal to end the war with Iran.
  • Some Republicans have criticized this tentative deal.
  • Rand Paul is urging these Republicans to back President Trump’s negotiations.
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Pumped up: travelers at a unique truck stop in Iowa on ‘ridiculous’ gas prices

Pumped up: travelers at a unique truck stop in Iowa on ‘ridiculous’ gas prices

Summary

The Iowa 80 truck stop, known as the largest in the world, offers many services for drivers but is facing high gas prices. These fuel price increases are linked to a conflict involving the US and Iran and are causing concern for truckers and consumers, especially as midterm elections approach.

Key Facts

  • Iowa 80 has 900 truck parking spots, many for cars, and offers services like a dentist, barber, chiropractor, diner, gym, and movie theater.
  • Gas prices there recently were $4.26 per gallon for regular gasoline and $5.72 for diesel.
  • The US involvement in attacking Iran led to a global energy crisis, causing gas prices to rise sharply.
  • Truck drivers face high fuel costs, which increase their expenses and affect prices of goods they transport.
  • The Biden administration is allowing fuel with higher ethanol to lower costs and the president has suggested suspending the federal gas tax.
  • Polls show President Trump’s approval ratings are low, partly due to concerns about the economy and rising fuel prices.
  • Many truckers and customers at Iowa 80 are discussing how the war affects gas prices and the economy.
  • Some people believe market forces like hedge funds also impact prices, not only the conflict.
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The Democrats’ 2024 autopsy fails to confront the truth | Norman Solomon

The Democrats’ 2024 autopsy fails to confront the truth | Norman Solomon

Summary

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) released a report analyzing their poor performance in the 2024 election. The report received criticism for being incomplete, confusing, and avoiding important topics like voter disinterest and the impact of U.S. support for Israel amid conflict in Gaza.

Key Facts

  • The DNC delayed releasing its 2024 election autopsy for several months.
  • DNC Chair Ken Martin said he does not support the content of the report.
  • The report includes disclaimers saying it reflects the author's views, not the DNC’s officially.
  • The report was criticized by news outlets for being messy and lacking clear explanations.
  • The report focuses on campaign logistics like fundraising but avoids explaining why many voters, especially young people, stayed away.
  • The autopsy does not mention Gaza, Palestinians, Israel, or genocide, despite their political relevance.
  • Internal sources suggested that Vice President Kamala Harris’s stance on Gaza hurt her chances in the election.
  • Critics say the DNC ignored how supporting Israel affected voter support for the party.
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State and local policymakers can lead us through Iran’s energy reckoning

State and local policymakers can lead us through Iran’s energy reckoning

Summary

State and local leaders can help protect people from sudden increases in fossil fuel prices. They can do this by supporting electric cars, better public transportation, and affordable housing that is easy to walk around.

Key Facts

  • Fossil fuel prices can change quickly and impact people’s costs.
  • Investing in electric vehicles can reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
  • Improving public transportation offers an alternative to driving.
  • Building walkable, affordable housing helps people spend less on fuel.
  • State and local policymakers have a role in planning these changes.
  • These efforts aim to make energy costs more stable for communities.
  • The article focuses on strategies within the United States.
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Suspect in White House shooting dead

Suspect in White House shooting dead

Summary

A man opened fire near the White House on Saturday evening and was shot dead by Secret Service officers. The incident happened shortly after 6 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time.

Key Facts

  • The shooting occurred near the White House.
  • The man had a weapon in his bag and started shooting.
  • Secret Service officers returned fire.
  • The man was killed by law enforcement.
  • The event happened on a Saturday around 6 p.m. EDT.
  • Anthony Guglielmi is the chief of communications for the Secret Service and provided this information.
  • The incident involved an armed suspect exchanging gunfire with Secret Service officers.
  • This was a federal law enforcement response to a security threat near the President’s residence.
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Trump administration eyes Cuba after Venezuela raid and turns up pressure

Trump administration eyes Cuba after Venezuela raid and turns up pressure

Summary

President Donald Trump’s administration is increasing pressure on Cuba following a recent raid related to Venezuela. The U.S. government is focusing on Cuba’s role in regional politics and security, aiming to influence the situation there.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration is paying close attention to Cuba after a raid linked to Venezuela.
  • The U.S. wants to apply more pressure on Cuba regarding its political and security actions.
  • Cuba has strong ties to Venezuela, which concerns U.S. policymakers.
  • President Trump is involved in shaping U.S. policy toward Cuba and the region.
  • The situation is connected to broader U.S. efforts in Latin America.
  • There have been protests in Cuba supporting the government near the U.S. embassy.
  • Other recent U.S. news includes a White House shooting incident and Pentagon UFO footage release.
  • Discussions continue about U.S. relations with countries in Latin America and the Middle East.
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US: President Trump not harmed and safe after White House shooting

US: President Trump not harmed and safe after White House shooting

Summary

A gunman fired shots near the White House on Saturday evening but was killed by US Secret Service agents. President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time and was not hurt. One bystander was injured during the incident.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened outside the White House on Saturday evening.
  • The gunman was shot dead by US Secret Service agents.
  • President Donald Trump was inside and was not harmed.
  • A bystander was wounded in the shooting.
  • The Secret Service responded quickly to the threat.
  • The incident was confirmed by official sources.
  • No further threats were reported following the event.
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Andy Burnham seeks advice from Sue Gray on forming future Labour government

Andy Burnham seeks advice from Sue Gray on forming future Labour government

Summary

Andy Burnham is getting advice from Sue Gray, a former top adviser to Labour leader Keir Starmer, on how to prepare for leading a future Labour government. This comes as internal talks grow about leadership changes before an important upcoming election in Makerfield.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham consulted Sue Gray about managing a future Labour government if he succeeds as prime minister.
  • Sue Gray used to be Keir Starmer’s chief of staff but left her job in October 2024 after tensions within Labour’s team.
  • Burnham and Gray have known each other for decades, going back to when Burnham was a minister and Gray worked in the Cabinet Office.
  • Labour’s local election results were poor, increasing speculation about leadership and party direction.
  • The Makerfield byelection is seen as important for Labour’s future and Burnham’s political chances.
  • Polls show Labour narrowly leading, with Reform UK gaining ground in what was once safe Labour territory.
  • Several senior Labour figures, including Wes Streeting and Lucy Powell, support Burnham’s campaign.
  • Burnham continues to oppose rejoining the EU and favors more public control of transport, housing, and energy.
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Tulsi Gabbard’s resistance to foreign wars amid Trump’s aggression was her undoing | Mohamad Bazzi

Tulsi Gabbard’s resistance to foreign wars amid Trump’s aggression was her undoing | Mohamad Bazzi

Summary

Tulsi Gabbard, the US director of national intelligence, resigned in June 2025, citing her husband’s cancer diagnosis. Despite supporting President Trump and his conspiracy theories, she clashed with him over US foreign wars and was sidelined from key decisions on conflicts with Iran and Venezuela.

Key Facts

  • Tulsi Gabbard was US director of national intelligence under President Trump.
  • She accused Barack Obama and his officials of a “treasonous conspiracy” regarding the 2016 election.
  • Gabbard was involved in supporting Trump’s grievances about election investigations.
  • She resigned in June 2025 to support her husband, who is ill with cancer.
  • Gabbard opposed US regime-change wars and had conflicts with Trump over Iran and Venezuela policies.
  • Trump excluded her from planning the US operation against Venezuela’s president.
  • Gabbard was sidelined during the US-Israeli war against Iran and removed from key briefings.
  • One of her top aides resigned over the Iran war, criticizing the administration for starting it due to Israeli influence.
  • President Trump promised to stop wars in his 2024 campaign but soon launched multiple military attacks in the Middle East.
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Ohio State reels from multiple scandals amid wider crisis in higher education

Ohio State reels from multiple scandals amid wider crisis in higher education

Summary

Ohio State University faces multiple crises, including a major sexual abuse scandal involving Dr. Richard Strauss, who abused student athletes over decades. The university’s president resigned after misusing public funds, and the school now faces lawsuits and political controversy amid broader financial challenges.

Key Facts

  • Dr. Richard Strauss sexually abused hundreds of Ohio State student athletes over many years before dying by suicide in 2005.
  • Ohio State has paid over $61 million to settle claims from abuse victims.
  • The university’s president, Walter ‘Ted’ Carter Jr, resigned after using public money to support a podcaster with whom he had an inappropriate relationship.
  • Carter reportedly helped secure $60,000 in state funds for the podcaster and made false claims about business trips.
  • Ohio State is on its fourth president in six years due to ongoing leadership issues.
  • About 30 former Ohio State football players joined a federal lawsuit related to the Strauss abuse, with trial expected later in 2024.
  • Republican Congressman Jim Jordan, a former Ohio State wrestling coach, was accused by a former official of knowing about the abuse; Jordan denies this.
  • Ohio State and other universities are facing financial problems caused by declining student numbers and fewer international students following government policies.
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US voters support HIV/Aids relief – will Trump’s cuts backfire in the midterms?

US voters support HIV/Aids relief – will Trump’s cuts backfire in the midterms?

Summary

Most US voters support Pepfar, a program to fight HIV/AIDS that also helps fight other infectious diseases. Despite this, the Trump administration has reduced Pepfar’s focus and funding, which could affect voter opinions in the upcoming midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • About 74% of likely US midterm voters support funding Pepfar.
  • 80% believe there is a moral reason to support HIV/AIDS treatment, no matter personal choices.
  • Pepfar was started in 2003 by President George W. Bush and has had support from both political parties.
  • The Trump administration plans to keep most Pepfar funds within the State Department but cut funding to the CDC from $2 billion to $150 million.
  • USAID was merged into the State Department last year, and HIV prevention and treatment funding cuts of $1.6 billion were proposed domestically.
  • Polls show voters prefer candidates who support Pepfar.
  • Support for Pepfar is seen as reflecting American compassion and global leadership.
  • Changes to Pepfar’s funding and structure are causing uncertainty about the program’s future.
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Dems weaponize Epstein in anti-GOP midterm ads

Dems weaponize Epstein in anti-GOP midterm ads

Summary

Several Democratic candidates are running ads that connect their Republican opponents to Jeffrey Epstein’s scandal. These ads are part of a broader effort to criticize Republicans for protecting wealthy elites linked to Epstein and to highlight distrust around the Trump administration’s handling of Epstein files.

Key Facts

  • Democratic candidates in key Senate races are airing ads linking GOP opponents to Jeffrey Epstein scandals.
  • Ohio Democrat Sherrod Brown spent nearly $1.5 million on ads criticizing Republican Jon Husted for past donations from Leslie Wexner, an Epstein client.
  • Husted’s campaign said all donations from Wexner were given to an anti-human trafficking charity.
  • Maine Democratic candidate Graham Platner accuses Senator Susan Collins of siding with elites tied to Epstein.
  • Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff claims President Trump’s administration includes members connected to the "Epstein class."
  • Rep. Ro Khanna supports releasing Epstein files and believes voters dislike the system favoring the rich and powerful.
  • Republicans accuse Democrats of hypocrisy, pointing to their own connections to Epstein-linked donors.
  • Some ads also target Democrats, like in New Mexico’s governor race, where one Democrat was linked to Epstein by opponents.
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