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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and other Pentagon officials testified on Capitol Hill about the proposed $1.5 trillion defense budget for next year. Lawmakers questioned Hegseth about the real costs of a war with Iran during the hearing.
Key Facts
The hearing took place on Capitol Hill.
The topic was the defense budget proposal for the next year, totaling $1.5 trillion.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified at the hearing.
Other Pentagon officials also testified alongside Hegseth.
Lawmakers asked about the actual cost of a potential war with Iran.
The discussion focused on budget priorities and military spending.
The hearing is part of the budget review process by U.S. lawmakers.
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President Donald Trump is visiting Beijing to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping. They will discuss ways to increase trade, talk about issues involving Iran, and address U.S. arms sales to Taiwan.
Key Facts
President Trump is the first U.S. president to visit China in nearly 10 years.
The visit aims to boost trade between the United States and China.
Trump and Xi plan to have a long discussion about Iran, a country involved in a war and a major oil customer of China.
President Trump will raise the topic of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, which China claims as its territory.
Both countries are currently in a one-year truce in a tariff war that began in previous years.
The trade relationship includes issues like China’s control over rare earth metal exports.
Top U.S. business leaders, including Elon Musk and Tim Cook, are accompanying President Trump.
The visit occurs amid challenges in China’s economy and ongoing global tensions.
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President Donald Trump has started renovations on the reflecting pool near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. This project is part of his larger plan to change well-known landmarks in the capital.
Key Facts
The reflecting pool is 2,028 feet long.
It is located at the base of the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall.
President Trump announced the renovation plans during an event not related to the project.
The reflecting pool project is one part of efforts to alter major landmarks in Washington, D.C.
The renovations have caused some public debate and attention.
The National Mall is a popular area with many historic monuments.
The reflecting pool has needed repair to address wear and damage.
This project reflects President Trump's focus on updating national symbols.
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The article discusses how society and healthcare providers have often overlooked the emotional pain mothers feel after a miscarriage. It calls for more support and understanding for women who experience this loss.
Key Facts
Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the baby can survive outside the womb.
Many mothers feel isolated and unsupported after a miscarriage.
Medical systems often focus on physical health but neglect emotional care for grieving mothers.
Cultural attitudes sometimes minimize or ignore the grief caused by miscarriage.
Increasing awareness and compassionate care can help mothers during this difficult time.
Support networks and counseling are important resources for women coping with pregnancy loss.
The article urges better recognition and support for mothers who grieve miscarriage.
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Senator John Kennedy proposed a plan to fund a $1 billion security upgrade for President Donald Trump’s White House ballroom without increasing the national deficit. He suggested cutting $1 billion from a larger budget package that includes funding for immigration agencies to cover the cost.
Key Facts
Senator John Kennedy is a Republican from Louisiana.
He suggested funding the $1 billion security project without adding to the deficit.
The project is for upgrading security in President Trump’s White House ballroom.
President Trump initially said the project would be funded by private donors.
The security budget became more urgent after an attempted assassination at a White House event in April.
Some Democrats oppose the ballroom project entirely.
Some Republicans worry about supporting $1 billion in funding before the November midterm elections.
Kennedy plans to amend the overall budget, which includes $72 billion for agencies like ICE and CBP, reducing it by $1 billion.
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Many cities across the U.S. are giving monthly cash payments, ranging from $200 to $1,000, to selected residents through guaranteed income programs. These programs provide money with no work or spending rules and are targeted mainly at low-income or vulnerable people.
Key Facts
Guaranteed income programs give regular cash payments to people without conditions.
Payments vary by city, from $200 to $1,000 per month.
Cities like Los Angeles, New York City, Baltimore, and West Hollywood offer the highest payments.
Most programs focus on low-income households or those facing economic hardship.
Participants are usually picked through lotteries or targeted outreach, not open applications.
Money can be used for any purpose; there are no work or spending restrictions.
Programs differ from universal basic income because they are targeted, not given to everyone.
Residents should check local government websites to see if they qualify or can apply.
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The owner of the cargo ship Dali and one of its employees have been charged with crimes related to the 2022 collapse of Baltimore's Key Bridge, which killed six people. Prosecutors say the company lied to investigators, hid safety problems, and that the ship lost power twice before crashing into the bridge.
Key Facts
The ship Dali struck Baltimore's Key Bridge on March 26, 2022, causing the bridge to collapse and killing six construction workers.
Synergy Marine, the ship's operator, and an employee have been charged with conspiracy, obstruction, and misconduct causing death.
Prosecutors allege the company hid safety risks and misled the US Coast Guard and investigators.
The ship lost power twice within four minutes due to a loose wire and improper use of a fuel pump not approved for the ship’s generators.
Synergy employees knew about the improper fuel pump use and tried to cover it up.
The ship’s owner has already paid over $100 million to settle civil claims and an additional $350 million to Maryland’s insurance.
The bridge collapse caused major economic disruption and rebuilding the bridge will take years and billions of dollars.
Another civil trial against Synergy Marine is scheduled for next month.
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President Donald Trump’s approval rating for handling the U.S. economy has dropped sharply in three national polls taken in early May 2026. Polls show that more people disapprove than approve of his economic leadership, marking the lowest ratings of his second term.
Key Facts
Three major polls (CNN/SSRS, Reuters/Ipsos, YouGov/Economist) found Trump’s net economic approval ratings between -24 and -40.
Trump’s approval on the economy dropped from positive ratings early in his second term to strongly negative ratings now.
The CNN poll showed only 30% approval and 70% disapproval, the lowest in his career.
Reuters/Ipsos and YouGov/Economist polls showed similar low approval around 30-34% and high disapproval.
In January 2025, Trump had a positive net rating on the economy (+6 and +12 in two polls).
The drop represents a 36-40 point decline in approval since early in Trump’s second term.
This decline comes despite Trump’s 2024 campaign promise to improve the economy and lower costs.
Lower economic approval could affect Trump’s political support and impact key congressional races before the 2026 midterm elections.
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A Michigan man, James Shirah, was sentenced to at least 30 years in prison for killing his friend and groomsman, Terry Taylor Jr., by running him over with an SUV during an argument on Shirah’s wedding day. Shirah pleaded no contest to second-degree murder and related charges, and his bride faces sentencing for helping cover up the crime.
Key Facts
James Shirah, 24, from Flint, Michigan, was sentenced for killing his groomsman Terry Taylor Jr., 29.
The incident happened on August 30, 2024, right after Shirah’s wedding celebrations.
Shirah hit Taylor with his SUV during an argument and fled the scene, reporting the incident to police only the next day.
Shirah pleaded no contest to three felony charges including second-degree murder.
The judge said Shirah is a “killer” but not a criminal in character.
Shirah said he did not intend to kill Taylor and expressed remorse.
Taylor was taken to a hospital but was pronounced dead.
Shirah’s bride, Savanah Collier, 23, pled no contest to being an accessory and will be sentenced later.
Taylor is survived by four children and his fiancée.
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The Justice Department responded to subpoenas sent to Wall Street Journal reporters related to a leak investigation about U.S. military warnings on Iran. The department said it aims to protect soldiers' lives by investigating those who leak classified information, not the reporters themselves.
Key Facts
The Wall Street Journal received subpoenas on March 4 linked to a February 23 article about military leaders warning President Donald Trump about risks in Iran.
The subpoenas request records from Journal reporters to help find government employees leaking classified material.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said prosecuting leakers who share secrets is a priority for the Trump administration.
The Justice Department said reporters are not the target, but they may have information about illegal leaks.
Historically, leak investigations under the Espionage Act focus on leakers, not journalists who publish the information.
In 2025, Attorney General Pam Bondi allowed prosecutors to subpoena journalists’ records for leak investigations, reversing a previous limit.
The Biden administration had earlier made it harder to seize reporters’ communications, but incidents like the Washington Post reporter’s phone search have raised concerns.
The Wall Street Journal called the subpoenas an attack on free press and said it will fight them.
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Inflation in the U.S. is rising not only for everyday essentials like gas, food, and housing but also for travel costs such as airline tickets and hotels. This trend affects how Americans feel about their financial situation and challenges President Donald Trump’s message about economic improvement ahead of the midterm elections.
Key Facts
In April, food prices at home rose 0.7%, shelter costs rose 0.6%, and gasoline prices rose 5.4%.
Airline fares increased 2.8% in April and are up 20.7% over the past year.
Lodging costs away from home rose 2.4% in April.
Rising travel costs lead families to cancel or shorten trips, making inflation feel like a loss in lifestyle, not just higher bills.
Gasoline prices have increased 28.4% over the year, influenced by the ongoing Iran war.
Energy prices made up over 40% of April’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) monthly increase.
Consumer sentiment dropped in May, with many Americans worried about high prices affecting their finances and spending.
President Trump promotes an economic vision where Americans are growing richer, but inflation challenges that view, especially with rising discretionary costs like travel.
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Wildfire risk is growing across the United States, not just in western states. Experts predict that up to 8 million acres could be at risk this wildfire season.
Key Facts
Wildfire danger is expanding beyond the western U.S. to other parts of the country.
Conditions such as dry weather and heat are making many areas more vulnerable.
Up to 8 million acres may be at risk from wildfires this year.
A "tinder box" means the land is very dry and can catch fire easily.
Authorities are monitoring conditions to prepare for possible fires.
Wildfires can threaten homes, wildlife, and air quality.
Early action helps reduce damage from wildfires.
People living in fire-prone areas are encouraged to stay ready and informed.
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President Donald Trump has urged Congress to pass the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a Senate-approved bill aimed at making housing more affordable in the U.S. The bill includes limits on large investors buying single-family homes to help more Americans achieve homeownership.
Key Facts
President Trump called on Congress to pass the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act to improve housing affordability.
The bill passed the Senate with nearly 90 votes but is stalled in the House of Representatives.
One key part of the bill restricts large institutional investors who own many single-family rental homes from buying more properties.
These investors would also have to sell new homes to individual buyers after seven years or pay fines.
The bill aims to speed up homebuilding by removing regulatory barriers and simplifying environmental reviews.
President Trump issued an executive order in January banning large investors from buying single-family homes while the legislation is pending.
Vice President JD Vance supports the bill and has urged the House to pass it.
Some housing experts say large investors play a small role in the housing crisis and argue the solution requires more complex reforms.
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Two Democratic senators joined Republicans to support advancing Kevin Warsh’s nomination to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. This vote moves Warsh closer to confirmation as the chair of the Federal Reserve, nominated by President Trump.
Key Facts
Two Democratic senators voted with Republicans to advance Warsh’s nomination.
Kevin Warsh is nominated to be chair of the Federal Reserve by President Trump.
The Senate voted to move forward Warsh’s nomination to the next stage.
The confirmation vote for Warsh is expected soon.
The Federal Reserve Board of Governors oversees U.S. monetary policy and economic stability.
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The Department of Justice (DOJ) issued subpoenas to the Wall Street Journal for reporter records related to leaked information about the U.S.-Israeli conflict involving Iran. The subpoenas were received by the Journal on March 4, concerning an article published on February 23.
Key Facts
The DOJ subpoenaed the Wall Street Journal for reporters’ records.
The subpoenas relate to leaks about the conflict between the U.S. and Israel concerning Iran.
The Journal received the subpoenas on March 4.
The investigation focuses on reporting published on February 23.
The article mentioned involved General Dan Caine, the chairman (further details are not provided).
The subpoenas come as part of a grand jury inquiry.
The case involves potential leaks of sensitive information.
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Representative Chip Roy from Texas is proposing a new law that would allow the death penalty for people who sell fentanyl that causes deaths. The bill aims to change existing drug laws to make death a possible punishment in these cases.
Key Facts
Rep. Chip Roy is a Republican lawmaker from Texas.
He introduced a bill called the Deal Death, Face Death Act.
The bill targets people who sell fentanyl that leads to someone's death.
It would change the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 to add the death penalty for these offenders.
Fentanyl is a powerful drug linked to a high number of overdose deaths.
The proposal is meant to increase punishments for fentanyl dealers.
The bill was reported by Fox News on the day it was introduced.
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New York lawmakers are considering banning potassium bromate, a chemical used in flour for bagels, pizza, and other baked goods. This additive is being reviewed because it may increase the risk of cancer.
Key Facts
Potassium bromate is added to flour to improve baking quality.
It is commonly used in making bagels, pizza, and other baked foods.
Some studies have linked potassium bromate to a higher chance of cancer.
New York legislators are discussing a possible ban on this chemical.
The ban aims to reduce health risks for consumers.
The decision is still under consideration and has not been finalized.
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West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey is trying to influence the results of the state's primary elections. He wants to change the makeup of the Republican majority in the state legislature by supporting candidates who align with his views and opposing some current Republican lawmakers.
Key Facts
Governor Patrick Morrisey is involved in West Virginia's state primary elections.
Morrisey aims to reshape the Republican supermajority in the state legislature.
He is targeting certain Republican incumbents for defeat.
The governor is using his political influence two years into his term to back preferred candidates.
This comes soon after President Donald Trump successfully influenced Republican primaries in Indiana.
Morrisey himself is not running in the current primary elections.
The primaries will test Morrisey’s political power within his party.
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Pentagon officials appeared before U.S. lawmakers to explain their request for a $1.5 trillion budget for the year 2027. This budget is being requested during ongoing tensions related to the conflict involving Iran.
Key Facts
The Pentagon is asking for $1.5 trillion in funding for 2027.
Lawmakers on Capitol Hill questioned Pentagon officials about this large budget request.
The budget request comes as the U.S. faces tensions connected to the Iran conflict.
Pentagon officials are presenting reasons to justify the high spending.
The discussions are part of congressional budget review and oversight.
The budget covers defense and military operations funding.
This is happening under President Donald Trump’s administration.
The news was reported by CBS News correspondent Nikole Killion.
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A new poll shows that Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Republican Secretary of State Marco Rubio are the leaders among voters when asked about potential candidates for the 2028 presidential primaries. The poll surveyed both Democratic and Republican voters on their preferences for the upcoming election.
Key Facts
The poll was conducted by Atlas National Poll.
It asked voters which candidates they would support in the 2028 presidential primaries.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez leads among Democratic voters.
Marco Rubio leads among Republican voters.
The poll included both Democratic and Republican respondents.
This polling is focused on potential candidates for the 2028 U.S. presidential election.
No other candidates or specific poll percentages beyond Ocasio-Cortez and Rubio were mentioned.
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