The Actual News

Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Cyberattack on system used by thousands of US schools disrupts final exams

Cyberattack on system used by thousands of US schools disrupts final exams

Summary

A major cyberattack disrupted Canvas, a widely used online system for thousands of U.S. schools and universities, during final exam time. The hack caused delays in exams, prevented access to course materials, and exposed private student information.

Key Facts

  • Canvas, an online platform used for grades, assignments, and course materials, went offline due to a cyberattack.
  • Thousands of schools and universities across the U.S. were affected, including Harvard, Johns Hopkins, and the University of Texas at San Antonio.
  • The hacking group ShinyHunters claimed responsibility and threatened to leak data from nearly 9,000 schools globally.
  • The breach exposed billions of private messages and student records.
  • Some schools postponed final exams because students could not access their materials.
  • Officials warned students to watch out for phishing messages pretending to be from Canvas.
  • This type of attack shows how much education now relies on digital systems.
  • Similar cyberattacks have targeted other education platforms like PowerSchool in the past.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

ABC lawyers accuse Trump’s FCC of punishing network for political reasons

ABC lawyers accuse Trump’s FCC of punishing network for political reasons

Summary

Lawyers for ABC’s Houston TV station say the FCC, led by President Trump appointees, is unfairly targeting their network. The FCC is investigating the show The View for possibly breaking rules about giving equal time to political candidates, but ABC argues the show is a genuine news program and should be exempt from these rules.

Key Facts

  • The FCC is investigating ABC’s show The View over equal time rules for political candidates.
  • The View featured Texas Senate candidate James Talarico but did not give equal time to his rivals.
  • ABC claims The View is a bona fide news interview program, which should exempt it from equal time rules.
  • KTRK-TV and ABC say the FCC’s actions threaten free speech and established broadcasting rules.
  • The station says the FCC is punishing ABC for political reasons, noting The View often has liberal guests.
  • FCC Chairman Brendan Carr began the investigation earlier in the year and also ordered ABC to renew local station licenses early.
  • Senate Democrats asked the FCC to cancel the early license renewal order for ABC.
  • FCC Commissioner Anna M Gomez supports ABC and praised their response to the FCC investigation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Veterans Would Get New Protections Under Bipartisan Bill

Veterans Would Get New Protections Under Bipartisan Bill

Summary

A new bipartisan bill in Congress seeks to protect veterans who apply for disability benefits from companies that charge high fees for help with their claims. The bill aims to regulate these companies and give the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) more power to stop misleading practices and keep more money in veterans’ hands.

Key Facts

  • Veterans often face complex and slow processes when filing disability claims with the VA.
  • Some companies charge veterans thousands of dollars to help with claims, even though accredited organizations offer similar help for free or low fees.
  • These unaccredited firms sometimes use robocalls to reach veterans and send large bills without clear consent.
  • The bill is called the Veterans Benefits Information Protection Act and is supported by both political parties.
  • It would increase VA authority to act against companies that use misleading tactics and charge excessive fees.
  • Veterans service organizations, attorneys, and claims agents who are accredited already provide free or regulated help.
  • The legislation targets a specific tactic used by these companies rather than trying to fix the entire industry at once.
  • The bill still needs to pass through congressional committees before becoming law.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Frustrated by Iran, Trump at last seizes enriched uranium – but from Venezuela

Frustrated by Iran, Trump at last seizes enriched uranium – but from Venezuela

Summary

President Donald Trump helped remove 13.5 kilograms of highly enriched uranium from a research site in Venezuela. This operation involved the US, the UK, and Venezuela and aimed to improve relations between the countries.

Key Facts

  • The US Department of Energy announced the removal of uranium from Venezuela.
  • The uranium was taken from a site near Caracas and moved safely to South Carolina.
  • The operation involved cooperation between the US, UK, and Venezuela.
  • The move was seen as a sign of improving relations between the US and Venezuela.
  • President Trump has recognized Venezuela’s vice-president, Delcy Rodríguez, and reopened diplomatic ties.
  • US officials, including the CIA director, visited Venezuela recently.
  • A US commercial flight landed in Venezuela for the first time in over seven years, and the US embassy reopened.
  • Despite efforts by President Trump to seize uranium from Iran, those attempts have not succeeded.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

A deadly crisis of violent manhood spills into our politics, again

A deadly crisis of violent manhood spills into our politics, again

Summary

Two recent cases of violence linked to gender issues involve elected officials. These events show a need to change how society sees masculinity, moving from control and power towards care and connection.

Key Facts

  • Two elected officials were involved in violent incidents connected to gender-based issues.
  • The violence is related to ideas about masculinity.
  • Current views of masculinity often emphasize control and domination.
  • Experts suggest shifting masculinity towards care and emotional connection.
  • These cases have sparked discussions about how male behavior affects politics and society.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Administration eyeing $400M settlement from TikTok for DC 'beautification': Sources

Administration eyeing $400M settlement from TikTok for DC 'beautification': Sources

Summary

The Trump administration is close to a $400 million settlement with TikTok to end a lawsuit about alleged privacy violations involving children. The money from the settlement would be used to fund President Trump's projects to improve the appearance of Washington, D.C.

Key Facts

  • The lawsuit began in 2024 during the Biden administration and accused TikTok of collecting data from children without parental consent.
  • The settlement does not require TikTok to admit wrongdoing.
  • TikTok would pay $400 million to the U.S. government if the agreement is approved by its board.
  • The settlement funds are planned to support "beautification" projects in Washington, D.C., possibly through the Department of Interior or Commerce.
  • President Trump is promoting a large 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery as part of these projects.
  • The proposed settlement is unusual because the money will fund city improvements rather than directly addressing privacy violations or compensating victims.
  • The Trump administration’s 2027 budget proposes cutting National Park Service funding while increasing budget for a "Presidential Capital Stewardship Program" focused on construction and beautification in D.C.
  • The Department of Justice and TikTok declined to comment on the settlement details.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

From us

Support no-spin news

The site stays free. If The Actual News is worth something to you, chip in.

As Iran war continues, people across the US are feeling a strain from high gas prices

As Iran war continues, people across the US are feeling a strain from high gas prices

Summary

The ongoing war with Iran has led to higher gas prices across the United States, causing financial difficulties for many Americans. A recent poll shows that half of the population expects gas prices to rise further, and many are struggling to pay for everyday needs.

Key Facts

  • The war with Iran has lasted for several months and is affecting the U.S. economy.
  • Gas prices are at record highs, impacting people’s budgets nationwide.
  • A poll found 50% of Americans expect gas prices to increase in the next year.
  • About 40% say they are financially worse off since President Donald Trump took office in January 2025.
  • Nearly 25% of Americans say they are falling behind financially.
  • Many people are cutting back on driving, household expenses, and travel because of higher gas costs.
  • Lower-income households feel the impact more severely, with many reducing driving and spending.
  • Some individuals rely on rideshares like Uber and Lyft, which have become more expensive due to higher gas prices.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Judge finds Trump's DOGE-led cancellation of humanities grants unconstitutional

Judge finds Trump's DOGE-led cancellation of humanities grants unconstitutional

Summary

A federal judge in New York ruled that the Trump administration’s cancellation of over $100 million in humanities grants was unconstitutional. The judge said the Department of Government Efficiency did not have the power to stop the funding and blocked the administration from ending the grants.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration canceled more than $100 million in humanities grants.
  • These grants went to scholars, writers, research groups, and other organizations.
  • U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon ruled the cancellation was unconstitutional.
  • The judge said the Department of Government Efficiency had no authority to end the funding.
  • The case was brought by The Authors Guild and other groups affected by the cancellations.
  • The judge permanently blocked the Trump administration from stopping the grants.
  • The judge criticized the use of artificial intelligence by DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) in ending the funding.
  • Government lawyers said the cuts were part of President Donald Trump’s plan to reduce spending and eliminate grants focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

ABC accuses FCC of violating its free speech

ABC accuses FCC of violating its free speech

Summary

ABC has filed a complaint against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), led by President Trump’s appointed Chair Brendan Carr. ABC says the FCC is violating the network’s First Amendment right to free speech by increasing oversight on its broadcasts.

Key Facts

  • ABC is owned by Disney.
  • The FCC is chaired by Brendan Carr, appointed under President Donald Trump.
  • ABC claims its free speech rights under the First Amendment are being violated.
  • The complaint was submitted to the FCC on a Friday.
  • The FCC has increased scrutiny of the content ABC broadcasts.
  • The issue was first reported by The New York Times.
  • The First Amendment protects freedom of speech in the United States.
  • The dispute centers on government regulation of media content.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

ICE Sent Him to Alligator Alcatraz After Green Card Interview: 'Horrible'

ICE Sent Him to Alligator Alcatraz After Green Card Interview: 'Horrible'

Summary

Allan Michael Marrero, a New York City resident, was detained for 150 days in several federal immigration centers after a green card interview, including a harsh facility known as "Alligator Alcatraz" in Florida. He has been released but still faces legal challenges to obtain permanent residency in the U.S.

Key Facts

  • Allan Michael Marrero was taken into detention after a green card interview with his husband in November 2023.
  • He was held at five different federal immigration centers for 150 days, including the South Florida Detention Facility called "Alligator Alcatraz."
  • The conditions at these facilities were unsanitary and unsafe, with overcrowded cages, limited showers, and exposed bathrooms.
  • Marrero was originally arrested because of a prior removal order linked to a missed court date while he was in a rehabilitation program.
  • He has been living in the U.S. for over 10 years and sought asylum due to persecution over his sexuality.
  • Marrero was released from detention in April 2024 after his lawyer threatened legal action.
  • He has not yet received his green card and is appealing an active removal order.
  • Marrero and his supporters, including New York City officials, remain hopeful about resolving his immigration status.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

LA mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt says he can "change the political landscape"

LA mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt says he can "change the political landscape"

Summary

Spencer Pratt, a former reality TV star and registered Republican, is running for mayor of Los Angeles despite having no political experience. He wants to fix city problems like unsafe streets and power outages, and he is currently polling second in the race against incumbent Mayor Karen Bass.

Key Facts

  • Spencer Pratt gained fame as a reality TV personality on MTV’s "The Hills."
  • He is running for mayor of Los Angeles as a Republican in a city that hasn’t had a Republican mayor since 2001.
  • Pratt is polling second in the mayoral race, which is currently led by Mayor Karen Bass.
  • The Los Angeles mayoral election will be held on June 2, with a possible runoff on November 3 if no candidate gets a majority.
  • Pratt decided to run after losing his home in the Palisades Fire and wants to improve safety and infrastructure in L.A.
  • Mayor Karen Bass has faced criticism for her handling of the recent fires and recovery efforts.
  • The election is officially nonpartisan, meaning candidates’ party affiliations are not listed on the ballot.
  • Pratt says his previous reality TV persona was for entertainment, but his campaign is serious and based on personal experience.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Trump touts Virginia Supreme Court ruling on redistricting: ‘Huge win’

Trump touts Virginia Supreme Court ruling on redistricting: ‘Huge win’

Summary

President Donald Trump praised the Virginia Supreme Court for cancelling a redistricting plan created by Democrats. The court ruled that the redistricting effort was unfair and should not be used.

Key Facts

  • The Virginia Supreme Court made a decision on Friday.
  • The court rejected a redistricting map created by Democrats.
  • Redistricting is the process of redrawing voting district boundaries.
  • President Trump called the ruling a "huge win" for the Republican Party and America.
  • He said the Democrats’ redistricting was a "horrible gerrymander," which means drawing districts to favor one party.
  • The decision affects how voting districts in Virginia will be drawn.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

From us

Pay what you want

We're reader-funded instead of ad-funded. You decide what no-spin news is worth.

The Conversation: Readers Debate Trump’s Push to Rebrand America

The Conversation: Readers Debate Trump’s Push to Rebrand America

Summary

President Donald Trump’s name, image, and branding are being used in several government-related projects during his second term. These include limited-edition passports with his face, renaming an airport, and plans for a new White House ballroom that has seen its budget increase significantly. Newsweek readers shared different opinions about these changes, focusing on their costs and symbolism.

Key Facts

  • President Trump’s face will appear on a limited number of special U.S. passports.
  • An airport is being renamed to “President Donald J. Trump International Airport,” with a new logo revealed by his son, Eric Trump.
  • A $1 billion budget has been proposed for security upgrades linked to a new White House ballroom project supported by President Trump.
  • Originally, the ballroom project was said to be privately funded and cost between $200 million and $400 million.
  • Critics say the project’s growing cost will be paid by taxpayers, raising concerns about national debt.
  • Supporters argue the ballroom and security upgrades are needed for presidential safety and national security.
  • The projects are part of a broader effort seen as President Trump building his legacy through public symbols.
  • Some citizens question whether these projects are appropriate uses of government resources or self-promotion.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Vinted harasser jailed for breaking sexual order

Vinted harasser jailed for breaking sexual order

Summary

Darrel Carter was jailed for breaking a sexual risk order by contacting women through the online marketplace Vinted. He had been banned from contacting girls under 18 and had already received multiple jail sentences for similar offenses.

Key Facts

  • Darrel Carter received a sexual risk order in 2020 to protect women.
  • The order banned him from contacting girls under 18 and limited his use of electronic devices.
  • In 2023, Carter was jailed for unlawfully contacting a 15-year-old girl.
  • In May 2024, he sent dozens of messages to women on Vinted, complimenting them and asking personal questions.
  • Carter failed to inform police about his online username, which was required by his order.
  • The court gave him a 34-week jail sentence to run alongside his previous prison recall.
  • Carter had been released on licence in late December but was recalled to prison after breaching his order.
  • His lawyer said Carter's mental health had declined, and he was socially withdrawn.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Newsom accuses MAGA of rigging election after Virginia decision

Newsom accuses MAGA of rigging election after Virginia decision

Summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized MAGA Republicans after the Virginia Supreme Court rejected a new congressional map proposed by Democrats. He pointed out that Republicans in Tennessee, Missouri, and North Carolina could gain more seats through redistricting.

Key Facts

  • California Governor Gavin Newsom made a statement about the Virginia Supreme Court decision.
  • The Virginia court ruled against a new congressional map created by Democrats.
  • Newsom said MAGA Republicans are manipulating the election process.
  • He mentioned that redistricting could help Republicans win more seats in Tennessee and Missouri.
  • Republicans could also gain two additional seats in North Carolina through redistricting.
  • Redistricting is the process of redrawing electoral district boundaries.
  • The news revolves around political battles over how voting districts are set.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Virginia Supreme Court strikes down congressional map that would benefit Democrats

Virginia Supreme Court strikes down congressional map that would benefit Democrats

Summary

The Virginia Supreme Court has rejected a new congressional district map that was approved by voters last month. The court ruled that this map, which would have helped Democrats, does not follow legal requirements.

Key Facts

  • The Virginia Supreme Court reviewed a recently approved congressional map.
  • The map had been approved by voters in Virginia last month.
  • The court decided the map was not legally acceptable.
  • The map was seen as favorable to the Democratic Party.
  • This decision means the state will need to create a new congressional district map.
  • Redistricting is the process of drawing new boundaries for political districts.
  • Courts often review these maps to ensure they follow the law.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Teenagers guilty of killing man in ambush

Teenagers guilty of killing man in ambush

Summary

Two teenagers from Luton were found guilty in connection with the death of Adam Khan, who was attacked with a machete in August 2025. A 17-year-old boy was convicted of murder, and a 17-year-old girl was convicted of manslaughter for her role in luring Khan to the attack.

Key Facts

  • Adam Khan, aged 26, died after being attacked on Humberstone Road, Luton, on 31 August 2025.
  • The boy, 17 at trial time and 16 when the crime happened, was found guilty of murder.
  • The girl, also 17 at trial and 16 at the time, was found guilty of manslaughter.
  • Khan was stabbed five times with a machete, including wounds to the face and stomach.
  • The boy admitted planning with the girl to trick Khan into coming to the attack location.
  • The boy had a history of youth crime, including assaults and knife offenses.
  • Both teenagers cannot be named due to legal rules protecting under-18s.
  • Sentencing for both will take place later.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Hundreds of California Ballots Found Unopened After Election Certified

Hundreds of California Ballots Found Unopened After Election Certified

Summary

Humboldt County, California, found 596 ballots from a 2025 special election that were never counted because they remained sealed in a locked drop box. Officials confirmed the ballots were not tampered with and are working on how to count them, though these votes would not change the election’s outcome.

Key Facts

  • The uncounted ballots were discovered on May 4, 2026, but cast during a November 4, 2025 election.
  • The ballots were from a special election to redraw California’s congressional map.
  • Humboldt County officials said the drop box was locked and ballots sealed, so no tampering occurred.
  • The error happened due to miscommunication when checking if the drop box was emptied.
  • The election was certified on December 5, 2025, before the ballots were found.
  • The election’s main measure passed by a large margin, so these votes won’t affect results.
  • President Donald Trump claimed on Truth Social that the election was rigged.
  • A survey shows many Americans, especially Republicans, doubt mail-in voting accuracy and election fairness.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

From us

No ads. Just the news.

It's free for everyone. If it's useful, support us at a price that feels right.

Recognizing ties between domestic violence and mass shootings saves lives

Recognizing ties between domestic violence and mass shootings saves lives

Summary

Almost half of mass shootings in the United States are connected to domestic violence. Recognizing this link can help save lives by improving prevention efforts.

Key Facts

  • Nearly 50% of mass shootings in the U.S. involve domestic violence.
  • Domestic violence often precedes or is linked to mass shooting events.
  • Understanding this connection is important for stopping these tragedies.
  • Prevention strategies that address domestic violence may reduce mass shootings.
  • Awareness of this link can help law enforcement and communities intervene sooner.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Schumer presses DHS to help local governments defend against AI cyber risks

Schumer presses DHS to help local governments defend against AI cyber risks

Summary

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer asked the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to help state and local governments improve their cybersecurity against threats from advanced artificial intelligence (AI). He expressed concern that new AI tools could make hacking attacks more powerful and dangerous.

Key Facts

  • Chuck Schumer is the Senate Minority Leader and a Democrat from New York.
  • He wrote a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.
  • Schumer wants DHS to assist local and state governments in defending against cyber threats.
  • His request focuses on risks linked to advanced AI technology.
  • AI models can make hacking tools stronger and harder to detect.
  • State and local governments may not have enough resources to fight these AI-driven cyber attacks alone.
  • DHS is the federal agency responsible for protecting the country from threats like cybersecurity attacks.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account