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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Missouri man charged for posting bomb-making tutorials that aided New Orleans attack

Missouri man charged for posting bomb-making tutorials that aided New Orleans attack

May 13, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A man from Missouri has been charged for posting online tutorials that showed how to make explosives. These instructions helped a terrorist carry out a deadly attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day 2025.

Key Facts

  • Jordan Derrick, 40, of Sweet Springs, Missouri, is charged with making explosives without a license, possessing an unregistered destructive device, and illegally sharing bomb-making instructions.
  • The terrorist, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, attacked New Orleans’ Bourbon Street on January 1, 2025, killing 14 people and injuring many others.
  • Jabbar used explosives based on Derrick’s posted tutorials but failed to detonate two bombs he planted.
  • Derrick shared detailed instructions dating back to September 2023 on how to make military-grade explosives like RDX, TNT, and PETN.
  • The FBI linked the explosives used by Jabbar to Derrick’s online materials.
  • Derrick’s arrest gained urgency after a 2026 explosion in Odessa, Missouri, where a person said they followed Derrick’s tutorials to make the bomb.
  • Convictions could lead to up to 20 years in prison for sharing explosive information and up to 10 years for illegal manufacturing or possession charges.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Student Loan Update: Millions of Borrowers Now in Default After Big Changes

Student Loan Update: Millions of Borrowers Now in Default After Big Changes

May 13, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Millions of Americans with student loans have recently fallen into default after federal protections ended. The government has resumed collecting unpaid loans directly from wages and tax refunds, affecting many borrowers' finances.

Key Facts

  • About 3.6 million student loan borrowers have defaulted since the end of 2025.
  • Pandemic-era protections that stopped wage garnishments and tax refund seizures are now lifted.
  • Default means the government can take up to 15% of a borrower's disposable wages.
  • Borrowers in default risk damaged credit scores and reduced Social Security benefits.
  • Many borrowers missed notices or did not enroll in income-driven repayment plans.
  • The Department of Education restarted involuntary collections under policies from President Trump’s administration.
  • Default levels are higher in the southern U.S. and among borrowers around 40 years old.
  • The pause on federal student loan collections ended, causing a shift from relief to enforcement.
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Newsweek
Democrat Neguse presses Burgum on reflecting pool, $13M ‘no-bid’ contract

Democrat Neguse presses Burgum on reflecting pool, $13M ‘no-bid’ contract

May 13, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Rep. Joe Neguse questioned Interior Secretary Doug Burgum about a $13 million contract for fixing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Neguse wanted to know why the contract was given without a competitive bidding process during the budget hearing for President Trump’s 2027 fiscal year plan.

Key Facts

  • The contract was for renovating the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
  • The contract amount was $13 million.
  • It was awarded to a company named Atlantic Industrial Coatings.
  • The contract was given without a competitive bidding process, sometimes called a “no-bid” contract.
  • Rep. Joe Neguse is a Democrat from Colorado.
  • Doug Burgum is the Interior Secretary.
  • The questioning happened during a House Natural Resource Committee hearing.
  • The discussion was part of the review of President Trump’s fiscal year 2027 budget request.
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The Hill
Lawsuit accuses secretary of agriculture of proselytizing employees in emails

Lawsuit accuses secretary of agriculture of proselytizing employees in emails

May 13, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

A lawsuit was filed against Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for sending work emails that include religious messages about Jesus Christ. The complaint says this breaks the First Amendment rule that stops the government from promoting a specific religion.

Key Facts

  • The National Federation of Federal Employees and seven USDA workers sued Secretary Brooke Rollins.
  • The lawsuit claims she frequently mentioned Jesus Christ and Christian beliefs in official emails.
  • Examples include emails about Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter with Christian messages.
  • The suit says this practice pressures employees to share the Secretary’s religion.
  • Some employees say they feel unwelcome or afraid to complain because of these messages.
  • The Establishment Clause of the First Amendment prohibits the government from favoring one religion or forcing religious beliefs on others.
  • A USDA spokesperson said they would keep the plaintiffs in their prayers but did not directly comment on the lawsuit.
  • The lawsuit was filed in California and focuses on religious freedom at work.
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ABC News
Foreign ticket holders from World Cup qualifying countries won’t have to pay bonds to enter US

Foreign ticket holders from World Cup qualifying countries won’t have to pay bonds to enter US

May 13, 2026 • AP News

Summary

The U.S. government will not require foreign visitors from World Cup qualifying countries who have tickets to pay a security bond to enter the country. This decision applies to fans from five countries with teams in the tournament and aims to make travel easier for those attending the World Cup in the U.S.

Key Facts

  • Foreign visitors from countries qualified for the World Cup who bought tickets are exempt from paying up to $15,000 bonds to enter the U.S.
  • The bond requirement was introduced last year for travelers from 50 countries with high rates of visa overstays or security concerns.
  • Five countries with this requirement—Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Tunisia—have qualified for the World Cup.
  • Players, coaches, and some staff were already exempt from the bond to speed up visa processing.
  • The waiver applies to fans who bought tickets and joined the FIFA Pass system for faster visa appointments after April 15.
  • The World Cup begins on June 11 and is hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
  • This exemption is a rare easing of immigration rules during a time of stricter travel controls by the Trump administration.
  • Some countries still face travel bans or restrictions, and certain new rules like social media checks for travelers have not yet started.
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AP News
Vance On Possible Ticket With Rubio: 'Few Topics I Want To Talk About Less'

Vance On Possible Ticket With Rubio: 'Few Topics I Want To Talk About Less'

May 13, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Vice President JD Vance said he does not want to talk about the idea of running for president or vice president with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in 2028. This came after President Donald Trump called them a "dream team," but Vance wants to avoid early talks about future campaigns.

Key Facts

  • Vice President JD Vance dismissed talk of a 2028 ticket with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
  • President Donald Trump described Vance and Rubio as a potential "dream team" for 2028.
  • Vance said he has little interest in discussing the topic.
  • Vance thinks voters would not like a candidate focusing on a job two and a half years ahead.
  • Vance made these comments during a news conference at the White House.
  • This discussion comes early in the 2028 campaign cycle.
  • The remarks aim to downplay speculation about future Republican ticket plans.
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Thomas Massie's Chances of Beating Trump-Backed Foe With 6 Days to Primary

Thomas Massie's Chances of Beating Trump-Backed Foe With 6 Days to Primary

May 13, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Republican Representative Thomas Massie, who has often disagreed with President Donald Trump, is behind Trump-backed challenger Ed Gallrein in the primary race for Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District. The primary will take place on May 19, and it will test how much influence President Trump has within the Republican Party.

Key Facts

  • Thomas Massie is seeking his eighth term in the House of Representatives.
  • Ed Gallrein has been endorsed by President Trump and appeared with him at a rally in March.
  • A recent Quantus Insights poll shows Gallrein leading Massie 48.3% to 43.1%, with about 7.6% undecided.
  • Gallrein has more support from women voters, while Massie leads among men.
  • The primary race has become one of the most expensive House primaries, with over $25 million spent on ads.
  • In previous polls from April, Massie was ahead, showing a shift in voter sentiment toward Gallrein.
  • Prediction markets suggest a very close race, with some showing Massie slightly ahead.
  • The May 19 primary will decide who moves on to the November general election.
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Newsweek
Watch: Vance takes questions on fraud, Iran, 2028 and more

Watch: Vance takes questions on fraud, Iran, 2028 and more

May 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Vice President JD Vance answered questions from reporters about new plans to fight fraud, issues related to Iran, and the 2028 elections. He spoke publicly after announcing these anti-fraud initiatives.

Key Facts

  • Vice President JD Vance held a press session on Wednesday.
  • Vance introduced new measures to prevent fraud.
  • Reporters asked him about topics including Iran and the 2028 U.S. elections.
  • The event was covered by CBS News.
  • Vance’s comments followed the announcement of anti-fraud efforts.
  • The discussion included a range of political and security issues.
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CBS News
Maggie Murdaugh's friends want to keep her memory alive

Maggie Murdaugh's friends want to keep her memory alive

May 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The South Carolina Supreme Court overturned Alex Murdaugh’s convictions for murdering his wife Maggie and son Paul, granting him a new trial due to unfair jury issues. Meanwhile, Maggie’s friends want people to remember her as a loving mother and friend, not just as a murder victim.

Key Facts

  • On May 13, 2026, the South Carolina Supreme Court threw out Alex Murdaugh’s murder convictions and ordered a new trial.
  • The court ruled Murdaugh did not get a fair trial because the county clerk of court acted improperly.
  • Alex was originally found guilty on March 2, 2023, of killing his wife Maggie and son Paul, and sentenced to two life terms.
  • Maggie Murdaugh’s friends say she should be remembered for her love of family and her personality, not just the way she died.
  • Maggie was called "Magnolia" by her sister and described as a devoted mom and wife.
  • The trial included testimony from 76 witnesses and key evidence like a video from Paul Murdaugh.
  • Alex Murdaugh faced other charges related to financial crimes and was disbarred from practicing law.
  • Maggie’s friends have known her since college and want her memory to be about the good times they shared.
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CBS News
Vance deflects questions about Rubio, 2028

Vance deflects questions about Rubio, 2028

May 13, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Vice President JD Vance avoided answering questions about his political plans for the year 2028 and about running together with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. During a press event, he said he did not want to discuss which office he might seek in the future.

Key Facts

  • JD Vance is currently the Vice President.
  • Reporters asked Vance if he planned to run for office in 2028.
  • They also asked if he might run with Marco Rubio on the same ticket.
  • Vance chose not to answer these questions.
  • He stated he prefers not to talk about his future political plans at this time.
  • Marco Rubio is the current Secretary of State.
  • The interaction took place at a press conference on Wednesday.
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The Hill
How much sway will new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh have over interest rates?

How much sway will new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh have over interest rates?

May 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Kevin Warsh has been confirmed as the new chair of the Federal Reserve by the Senate. While President Trump supports cutting interest rates, Warsh will need to work with other Fed officials to decide on rate changes, as the chair does not have full control over those decisions.

Key Facts

  • The Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh as Fed chair in a 54-45 vote.
  • President Trump wants the Fed to lower interest rates quickly.
  • Warsh says he will act independently and not base policy on the president’s views.
  • Interest rate decisions are made by the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), which has 12 voting members.
  • Only three of the seven Fed governors on the FOMC are President Trump appointees, including Warsh.
  • Other FOMC members include regional Fed bank presidents, who are not controlled by the White House.
  • The Fed chair has one vote but can influence others through persuasion and building consensus.
  • Jerome Powell, the outgoing Fed chair, plans to remain on the Fed board despite an ongoing Justice Department investigation.
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CBS News
How Paul Murdaugh testified "from the grave" to help convict his father

How Paul Murdaugh testified "from the grave" to help convict his father

May 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The South Carolina Supreme Court overturned Alex Murdaugh's murder convictions in May 2026, granting him a new trial because his right to a fair trial was denied. Alex Murdaugh had been found guilty in 2023 for killing his wife and son at their property in 2021, and was sentenced to two life terms in prison.

Key Facts

  • Alex Murdaugh was convicted in 2023 for the murders of his wife Maggie and son Paul at their estate in South Carolina.
  • He was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences for these murders.
  • The murders took place on June 7, 2021, at the family hunting lodge called "Moselle."
  • The jury was taken to the crime scene, including the dog kennels where the victims were shot.
  • The weapons used in the murders have never been found.
  • Murdaugh initially reported the crime to the police and spoke to investigators soon after.
  • The South Carolina Supreme Court ruled in 2026 that Murdaugh did not receive a fair trial, partly due to actions by a local court official.
  • The court ordered a new trial for Alex Murdaugh.
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CBS News
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Man sentenced to 2 years over Matthew Perry's ketamine overdose death

Man sentenced to 2 years over Matthew Perry's ketamine overdose death

May 13, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Erik Fleming, a licensed drug counselor, was sentenced to two years in prison for his role in supplying ketamine that caused actor Matthew Perry’s overdose death in 2023. Fleming admitted to helping a dealer provide Perry with ketamine and pleaded guilty to conspiracy and drug distribution charges.

Key Facts

  • Erik Fleming pleaded guilty in August 2024 to conspiracy and distribution of ketamine resulting in death.
  • Fleming worked with another dealer to supply Perry with multiple vials of ketamine, including the fatal dose.
  • Perry died in October 2023 at age 54 from a ketamine overdose.
  • Fleming was sentenced to two years in prison plus three years of supervised release.
  • Prosecutors said Fleming knew Perry’s addiction history and sold unregulated ketamine at a marked-up price.
  • Fleming himself struggled with addiction and relapsed before the offenses.
  • Defense attorneys asked for a lighter sentence with drug treatment due to his sobriety efforts and personal struggles.
  • Fleming expressed regret for the pain caused to Perry’s family and fans during sentencing.
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ABC News
Map Shows US States Suffering Most Layoffs in 2026

Map Shows US States Suffering Most Layoffs in 2026

May 13, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

In 2026, many U.S. companies, especially in tech and retail, are announcing large layoffs due to changing business needs and economic pressures. States like California, New Jersey, and Texas have the most layoffs, while some states report fewer job cuts.

Key Facts

  • Tech companies like Meta and Microsoft have announced significant workforce reductions in 2026.
  • Walmart is cutting or relocating about 1,000 corporate jobs to simplify its work organization.
  • Layoffs in 2026 total around 300,749, with tech firms responsible for about 85,411 of these.
  • This total number of layoffs is 50% lower than in early 2025, when federal workforce cuts were high.
  • California has the highest layoffs with 27,872 workers affected, followed by New Jersey, Texas, Florida, and Washington.
  • Some states like Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Wyoming have fewer large layoffs; smaller layoffs may not require official notices.
  • Layoff announcements surged by 38% in April after a 25% increase in March despite more job growth reported.
  • Inflation and rising energy costs continue to put economic pressure on Americans during this time.
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Newsweek
Lawmakers seek crackdown on China-owned U.S. farmland

Lawmakers seek crackdown on China-owned U.S. farmland

May 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump met with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid growing concerns in the U.S. Congress about Chinese ownership of American farmland. Lawmakers introduced a bill aiming to stop foreign adversaries like China from buying farmland near U.S. military bases, citing national security risks.

Key Facts

  • President Trump visited Beijing to discuss trade, energy, Taiwan, and the Iran conflict.
  • A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers proposed legislation to limit Chinese purchases of farmland near sensitive military and infrastructure sites.
  • About 2% of U.S. farmland (over 40 million acres) is owned by foreign entities, with Chinese investments accounting for less than 1% of that.
  • Key states with the largest Chinese-owned farmland include Texas, North Carolina, Missouri, Florida, and Virginia.
  • Smithfield Foods, a large pork producer in the U.S., was bought by a Chinese company and owns tens of thousands of acres of farmland.
  • President Trump signed a national security order last year restricting Chinese investments in sensitive sectors including agriculture.
  • Some experts say Chinese farmland ownership is very small and argue that restrictions may interfere with American property rights.
  • In 2023, lawmakers successfully blocked a Chinese company from building near a U.S. Air Force base in North Dakota due to security concerns.
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CBS News
Senate confirms Fed chair nominee Kevin Warsh, ending standoff over Powell probe

Senate confirms Fed chair nominee Kevin Warsh, ending standoff over Powell probe

May 13, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

The Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh as the new chair of the Federal Reserve by a vote of 54 to 45. Warsh will take over when Jerome Powell's term ends later this week, after a recent investigation into Powell was closed.

Key Facts

  • Kevin Warsh was confirmed by the Senate to be the next Federal Reserve chair.
  • The vote in the Senate was 54 in favor and 45 against.
  • Warsh will replace Jerome Powell as Fed chair when Powell’s term ends.
  • Investigators recently decided to drop a probe into Jerome Powell.
  • The Federal Reserve is the central bank of the United States, which controls monetary policy.
  • Warsh testified before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs in April 2026.
  • This confirmation ends a period of uncertainty about the Fed’s leadership.
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ABC News
Georgia’s Republican governor calls for special session to redraw electoral maps

Georgia’s Republican governor calls for special session to redraw electoral maps

May 13, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Georgia’s Republican governor, Brian Kemp, has called a special session starting June 17 to redraw the state’s election maps for legislative and congressional districts. This move follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision affecting voting rights and aims to secure Republican-favored boundaries before the next elections.

Key Facts

  • Governor Brian Kemp announced a special session to redraw Georgia’s election maps beginning June 17.
  • The session will focus on changing district lines for the state legislature and Congress.
  • This follows the Supreme Court case Louisiana v. Callais, which changed the Voting Rights Act protections.
  • Kemp’s current term ends in January 2025, and the state will not change maps before the upcoming primaries.
  • Republicans hope to redraw maps to keep political advantage while they control the legislature and governor’s office.
  • The redistricting may affect Democratic Congressman Sanford Bishop’s district, possibly removing him from his seat.
  • The session will also cover a new law about QR codes on ballots starting in July.
  • Experts warn aggressive map changes risk unintended consequences called “dummymanders,” where the majority party could lose power.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Trump Waives $15,000 Visa Bond for 50 Nations' Citizens Coming to World Cup

Trump Waives $15,000 Visa Bond for 50 Nations' Citizens Coming to World Cup

May 13, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The U.S. State Department announced it is removing the $15,000 visa bond requirement for visitors from 50 countries who are coming to the United States for the FIFA World Cup. This waiver applies to fans with valid World Cup tickets and team members such as players and coaches.

Key Facts

  • The visa bond requirement was introduced by the Trump administration and could cost up to $15,000.
  • The bond was meant to be returned if visitors left the U.S. before their visa expired.
  • The waiver applies to visitors from 50 countries, including five nations qualified for the World Cup.
  • Visitors must show valid World Cup tickets and have opted into FIFA PASS by April 15, 2026, to receive the waiver.
  • Players, coaches, and some team staff were already exempt from the bond fees.
  • The waiver aims to make it easier for fans and teams to attend while maintaining U.S. security.
  • The World Cup will start on June 11, and the U.S. is hosting the event.
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White House threatens to withhold Medicaid money from states over fraud

White House threatens to withhold Medicaid money from states over fraud

May 13, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The White House, under President Trump, warned that it may stop Medicaid funding to all 50 states if they do not prove they are following federal rules to prevent fraud. The Department of Health and Human Services inspector general sent letters telling states to demonstrate their compliance.

Key Facts

  • President Trump’s administration is making states prove they follow anti-fraud laws in Medicaid.
  • If states don’t comply, the government may withhold their Medicaid money.
  • All 50 states received letters from the Department of Health and Human Services inspector general.
  • The letter demands states show proof they are fighting fraud in Medicaid programs.
  • Vice President Vance spoke to reporters about this action on Wednesday.
  • Medicaid is a federal and state program that helps with medical costs for certain people.
  • This move is aimed at reducing fraud and improper payments in Medicaid.
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The Hill
WATCH: Vance and Oz announce numerous moves on Medicaid and Medicare fraud, focusing on Democratic-run states

WATCH: Vance and Oz announce numerous moves on Medicaid and Medicare fraud, focusing on Democratic-run states

May 13, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The Trump administration launched new actions to fight fraud in Medicare and Medicaid programs. This includes a six-month freeze on some new Medicare enrollments and warnings to states to investigate Medicaid fraud or face funding cuts.

Key Facts

  • The administration announced a nationwide six-month pause on new Medicare enrollments for hospice and home care providers.
  • States were warned to actively look into Medicaid fraud or risk losing federal funding.
  • These efforts are part of a broader anti-fraud initiative led by Vice President JD Vance's task force.
  • The task force aims to prevent misuse of public health program funds before the November elections.
  • The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services made the significant decision on the Medicare enrollment freeze.
  • Minnesota is suing to stop the administration from withholding $243 million in Medicaid funds.
  • The initiative targets fraud especially in states run by Democrats.
  • President Donald Trump supports this campaign to protect federal health program money.
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