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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Republicans ‘concerned’ after Trump threatens to withdraw more US troops from Germany

Republicans ‘concerned’ after Trump threatens to withdraw more US troops from Germany

May 03, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

President Donald Trump has threatened to cut more US troops from Germany, following his recent decision to withdraw 5,000 soldiers. Some Republican lawmakers and European leaders have expressed concern about the impact of these troop reductions on US defense and NATO alliances.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced a plan to reduce US troops in Germany by 5,000 soldiers last week.
  • There are still 30,000 US troops stationed in Germany after the recent withdrawal.
  • Trump said the cuts could be much larger than 5,000 soldiers.
  • The Pentagon said the troop pullout is based on a review of military needs in Europe.
  • German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized Iran for humiliating the US in diplomatic talks.
  • Republican lawmakers Senator Roger Wicker and Representative Mike Rogers said they are very concerned about troop reductions and want coordination with Congress and allies.
  • They suggested moving troops east within Europe rather than withdrawing them entirely.
  • There are tensions between the US, NATO, and European allies over conflicts in Iran and elsewhere.
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Guardian World Guardian US
US to cut troops in Germany as Iran war spat deepens

US to cut troops in Germany as Iran war spat deepens

May 03, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump announced plans to reduce the number of US troops stationed in Germany. This decision comes amid rising tensions between the US and Germany, specifically between President Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, over disagreements about the war on Iran.

Key Facts

  • President Trump will withdraw some US troops from bases in Germany.
  • The announcement follows a disagreement between President Trump and Chancellor Merz.
  • Chancellor Merz said Iran was humiliating the United States.
  • The issue causing tension is related to the war on Iran.
  • US-German diplomatic relations are currently strained.
  • The troop reduction is a direct result of this political conflict.
  • The US has had a military presence in Germany for many years.
  • No specific number of troops to be withdrawn was given in the report.
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Al Jazeera
Two US service members reported missing in Morocco, officials say

Two US service members reported missing in Morocco, officials say

May 03, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Two US service members went missing during a military exercise in Morocco near the city of Tan Tan. The US African Command reported the incident and said a search and rescue operation involving multiple countries is ongoing.

Key Facts

  • Two US service members are missing in Morocco.
  • They disappeared during African Lion 2026, a joint military exercise.
  • African Lion 2026 includes US forces, NATO allies, and African nations.
  • The location is near Cap Draa Training Area and the city of Tan Tan in Morocco.
  • The US African Command (Africom) announced the missing status on Sunday.
  • Search and rescue efforts include ground, air, and sea teams.
  • Morocco and other countries are participating in the search.
  • The service members were reported missing on Saturday.
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BBC World BBC US BBC Top Stories
‘Christofascism’ is here: inside the slow demolition of US public health | Adrienne Matei

‘Christofascism’ is here: inside the slow demolition of US public health | Adrienne Matei

May 03, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

In February 2025, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. became secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). He focused on spiritual and moral ideas as key to public health, promoted some unproven health remedies, and reduced jobs in the agency during a measles outbreak. His approach reflects the influence of Christian nationalist ideas within the government.

Key Facts

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. started as HHS secretary in February 2025.
  • He said America faces a "spiritual malaise" alongside physical health problems.
  • The White House cut 20,500 jobs at HHS shortly after his appointment.
  • Measles cases surged to the highest level in 34 years during this time.
  • Kennedy promoted unproven treatments like vitamin A for measles and raw milk benefits.
  • He used religious language like “spiritual warfare” in official speeches.
  • Christian nationalism seeks to merge Christian beliefs with government policy.
  • Some Trump administration officials openly support Christian nationalist ideas as part of their governance plan.
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Guardian US
Young Americans have soured on Trump | Steven Greenhouse

Young Americans have soured on Trump | Steven Greenhouse

May 03, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Many young Americans who supported President Donald Trump in the 2024 election have become unhappy with his presidency. They are concerned about rising prices, job difficulties, and Trump’s focus on issues other than affordability. Polls show a significant drop in approval ratings for Trump among voters aged 18 to 29.

Key Facts

  • Trump's approval rating among 18- to 29-year-olds dropped from 48% in January 2025 to between 25% and 33% recently.
  • Inflation remains a top concern for young Americans, but prices for basics like coffee, beef, and gas have risen since Trump took office.
  • Many young people say it is hard to find jobs and feel pessimistic about the economy.
  • Trump promised to make college and healthcare more affordable, but tuition and health costs have continued to rise.
  • Cuts in student aid and changes to health coverage could negatively affect millions of Americans under 30.
  • Trump has focused on other priorities, including military actions and trade disputes, which some say have increased costs.
  • Only 13% of young Americans think the country is going in the right direction, according to a recent poll.
  • Job growth has slowed, with the US adding an average of only 26,000 jobs per month during Trump’s term so far.
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Guardian US
2 US service members missing after military exercises in Morocco

2 US service members missing after military exercises in Morocco

May 03, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Two U.S. service members are missing in southwestern Morocco during the annual African Lion military exercise involving multiple countries. A search and rescue operation is underway, and the incident is still being investigated.

Key Facts

  • The two U.S. service members went missing on May 2 near the Cap Draa Training Area close to Tan Tan, Morocco.
  • They were participating in African Lion, a yearly multinational military exercise held in Morocco and three other African countries.
  • The exercise started in April 2026 and includes over 7,000 personnel from more than 30 countries.
  • African Lion is the largest annual U.S. joint military exercise on the African continent.
  • The exercise involves members from different U.S. military branches, including the National Guard, Army Reserve, Air Force, and Marine Corps.
  • The terrain at the location is a mix of mountains, desert, and semi-desert plains.
  • Morocco is a key U.S. ally in North Africa and regularly hosts these exercises to strengthen regional security.
  • A similar tragic incident occurred in 2012 when two U.S. Marines died in a helicopter crash during African Lion exercises in Morocco.
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ABC News
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2 US service members reported missing in Morocco

2 US service members reported missing in Morocco

May 03, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Two U.S. service members went missing during a military exercise in Morocco. The U.S. Africa Command is investigating and continues to search for them.

Key Facts

  • Two U.S. military personnel are missing in Morocco.
  • They were participating in a military training exercise.
  • The incident was reported on Saturday.
  • U.S. Africa Command is leading the investigation.
  • Search efforts for the missing service members are ongoing.
  • The military is focused on supporting the service members and their families.
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The Hill
List of States Stepping Up Redistricting Wars After Supreme Court Ruling

List of States Stepping Up Redistricting Wars After Supreme Court Ruling

May 03, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Several U.S. states are starting to redraw their congressional maps after a recent Supreme Court decision on racial gerrymandering. The ruling limits when states must create districts with a majority of minority voters, affecting how election districts are drawn.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court ruled that Louisiana's congressional map was an unconstitutional racial gerrymander.
  • The ruling said states do not always have to create “majority-minority” districts, where minority voters form over half the population.
  • This decision may allow Republican-controlled states more freedom to redraw maps in ways that could reduce Democratic seats.
  • States like Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee are reviewing or planning to redraw their districts.
  • Florida’s legislature quickly passed a new map that could increase Republican seats from 20 to 24.
  • Tennessee and Alabama governors announced special sessions to discuss redistricting starting in early May.
  • Mississippi and South Carolina are also preparing legislative reviews of their congressional maps.
  • Some Democratic leaders, despite opposing the ruling, are open to adjusting district maps with their legislatures.
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Newsweek
Trump’s disapproval rating hits new high: Poll

Trump’s disapproval rating hits new high: Poll

May 03, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

A recent poll shows that 62% of Americans disapprove of President Trump, which is 2% higher than in February. Many people are worried about the cost of living, prices, and inflation.

Key Facts

  • 62% of Americans disapprove of President Trump according to the latest poll.
  • This is a 2% increase in disapproval since February.
  • The poll was conducted by ABC News, The Washington Post, and Ipsos.
  • A major concern among respondents is the rising cost of living.
  • Inflation and affordability are also key issues for many people.
  • The poll results reflect public opinion at the time of release.
  • These numbers show changing attitudes toward President Trump.
  • The data was released on a Friday.
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The Hill
Two US Service Members Missing in Morocco

Two US Service Members Missing in Morocco

May 03, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Two U.S. soldiers went missing near Tan-Tan, Morocco, during a military training exercise called African Lion. The U.S. military is searching for them and investigating what happened.

Key Facts

  • Two U.S. service members disappeared near a training area close to Tan-Tan, Morocco.
  • They were participating in African Lion, the largest exercise organized by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).
  • African Lion started in mid-April and involves cooperation between U.S., NATO countries (like France and Italy), and several African nations.
  • More than 7,000 military personnel from 30 countries joined this year's exercises.
  • The drills take place across Morocco, Ghana, Senegal, and Tunisia.
  • The U.S. began training in Morocco after finishing exercises in Tunisia.
  • The search for the missing soldiers is still ongoing, and no names have been released.
  • AFRICOM announced the incident is under investigation.
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Newsweek
Republicans appear split on idea of clemency for Ghislaine Maxwell

Republicans appear split on idea of clemency for Ghislaine Maxwell

May 03, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Some Republican lawmakers are divided on whether President Trump should pardon Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted of sex crimes linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Survivors and their advocates strongly oppose any clemency, saying it would undermine justice and their suffering.

Key Facts

  • Ghislaine Maxwell, convicted of serious sex crimes involving minors, is serving a long jail sentence.
  • Some Republicans on a House committee are discussing a potential pardon to get Maxwell’s cooperation in an Epstein investigation.
  • Survivors and their lawyers say pardoning Maxwell would hurt victims and weaken the justice system.
  • Republican committee chair James Comer reportedly said opinions are split on offering clemency to Maxwell.
  • President Trump promised during his campaign to release Epstein-related files but has faced criticism for failing to do so fully.
  • A law called the Epstein Files Transparency Act requires the Justice Department to release documents about Epstein’s case, but some were delayed or heavily redacted.
  • Maxwell was recently moved to a low-security prison camp, leading to conspiracy theories among some Republicans.
  • The issue is causing tension within the Republican Party ahead of upcoming elections.
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Guardian World Guardian US
What’s worse than a ‘do-nothing’ Congress? This one.

What’s worse than a ‘do-nothing’ Congress? This one.

May 03, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The article discusses that while President Donald Trump is taking more control over making laws, many Republicans in Congress have not spoken up or acted strongly. It highlights that the current Congress is seen as less active than usual.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump is increasing his influence over lawmaking.
  • Many Republican members of Congress have remained quiet.
  • Congress has been less active in making and passing laws.
  • The article contrasts this Congress with previous ones, suggesting it is particularly inactive.
  • The focus is on the behavior of Republicans in Congress during President Trump’s term.
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The Hill
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Spirit Airlines Pilots Bid Emotional Farewell After Sudden Shutdown

Spirit Airlines Pilots Bid Emotional Farewell After Sudden Shutdown

May 03, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Spirit Airlines suddenly stopped all flights and shut down after many years of service, causing many canceled trips and unhappy passengers. The airline had financial problems made worse by rising fuel costs and failed attempts to get government help.

Key Facts

  • Spirit Airlines canceled all flights and ceased operations immediately.
  • The airline started in 1983 and rebranded as Spirit Airlines in 1992.
  • Thousands of passengers were affected by canceled flights.
  • Spirit faced financial troubles worsened by growing fuel prices linked to a conflict in Iran.
  • The airline went through two bankruptcies but could not recover.
  • Spirit tried but failed to get government financial support to stay in business.
  • The shutdown disrupted planned events like the retirement flight of Captain Jon Jackson.
  • Spirit’s CEO said rising fuel costs forced the airline to wind down operations.
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Newsweek
Police officers photographed body on own phones

Police officers photographed body on own phones

May 03, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Police officers from the Metropolitan Police used their personal phones to take photos of evidence, including a dead body, which was revealed in a misconduct hearing. Two officers received written warnings after it was found they kept these photos on their phones, and the police apologized for the inappropriate actions.

Key Facts

  • Officers used personal phones to take photos because police-issued devices were not good enough.
  • PC Billy Manning kept a photo of a dead man on his phone and showed it to colleagues during training.
  • PC Zak Malik took the photo and sent it to Manning via WhatsApp to reduce file size and upload it later.
  • Manning deleted the photo from his phone library but not from WhatsApp, responding with laughing emojis when warned.
  • Manning was found to have shared offensive content in a WhatsApp group named "Away Days."
  • PC Frankie Jordan also kept photos of evidence on his phone and said it was common practice.
  • There were unclear guidelines in the police force about using personal phones for work photos.
  • The officers received final written warnings but no criminal charges were made.
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BBC Top Stories
‘This is just disarray’: alarm inside Pentagon after Hegseth staff purges

‘This is just disarray’: alarm inside Pentagon after Hegseth staff purges

May 03, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Since President Donald Trump returned to office, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has removed or forced out 24 high-ranking military leaders without official reasons. Many of those removed were Black or female officers, and some say these actions have caused concern and confusion inside the Pentagon.

Key Facts

  • Pete Hegseth has fired or forced retirement of 24 generals and senior commanders since January 2023.
  • About 60% of those removed were Black or female officers.
  • The removals are linked to efforts against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies.
  • General Randy George, Army Chief of Staff, was recently ousted reportedly for refusing to cut certain officers from promotion lists.
  • Hegseth replaced General CQ Brown, the first Black chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, with a less experienced officer.
  • Female leaders like Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the first woman on the Joint Chiefs, were also removed.
  • Hegseth has been criticized for focusing on personal beliefs and has a small close-knit team including family members.
  • Day-to-day Pentagon operations are mostly managed by Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg.
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Guardian US
US ‘drowning in misinformation’ under RFK Jr, autism advocates say

US ‘drowning in misinformation’ under RFK Jr, autism advocates say

May 03, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A report by autism advocacy groups criticizes the Trump administration’s health officials, especially Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary, for spreading misinformation about vaccines and autism. The report details actions like cutting autism research funding, replacing advisory committee members with anti-vaccine figures, and reducing agency transparency, which advocates say harm public trust and the autism community.

Key Facts

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the current secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
  • The administration linked autism to acetaminophen use during pregnancy despite lack of scientific proof.
  • The federal autism advisory committee was replaced with members having anti-vaccine and pseudoscientific views.
  • The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee meeting was postponed and rescheduled after the report was released.
  • Autism research funding was cut by about $31 million under this administration.
  • The FDA removed warnings about unproven and dangerous autism treatments from its website.
  • The administration closed the office handling freedom of information requests, reducing transparency.
  • Kennedy’s claim that home health aides might be defrauding the government caused backlash among disabled people and their families.
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Guardian World Guardian US
The supreme court trusts America not to be racist. I don’t | Jamil Smith

The supreme court trusts America not to be racist. I don’t | Jamil Smith

May 03, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court recently made a ruling that limits the protections of the Voting Rights Act by suggesting those protections are no longer needed. Critics say the decision ignores ongoing racial voting problems and removes important tools that helped protect Black voters’ rights.

Key Facts

  • Six Supreme Court justices ruled that parts of the Voting Rights Act are unnecessary because America has changed.
  • The Voting Rights Act was originally created in 1965 to stop racial discrimination in voting.
  • The court’s ruling did not remove the entire Voting Rights Act but limited how it can be used.
  • Between 2012 and 2022, the difference in voter turnout between white and nonwhite voters increased.
  • Louisiana has never elected a Black congressperson from a district where Black people are not the majority.
  • The ruling could allow racial gerrymandering (manipulating voting maps to weaken minority voters) to continue unchecked.
  • The court ruled that only explicit proof of racial bias counts as discrimination, even though discrimination can be hidden.
  • After the ruling, Florida and Louisiana quickly moved to redraw voting maps favoring Republicans.
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Guardian US
Zack Polanski warns against banning London pro-Palestine protest

Zack Polanski warns against banning London pro-Palestine protest

May 03, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Zack Polanski, the Green party leader, said he does not support banning a pro-Palestine protest in London or outlawing the chant “globalise the intifada,” though he would discourage its use. The debate follows concerns about safety and intimidation of the Jewish community during recent protests, with police and government officials considering how to respond.

Key Facts

  • Zack Polanski opposes banning the phrase “globalise the intifada” or the upcoming London protest, citing freedom of speech.
  • Polanski apologized for criticizing police online about their arrest methods after a stabbing incident in Golders Green.
  • Metropolitan police currently arrest people who chant “globalise the intifada,” but further actions await a review of protest laws.
  • Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said decisions on banning chants or protests will depend on recommendations from a legal review.
  • Labour leader Keir Starmer called for tougher action against protesters using the chant to prevent intimidation of the Jewish community.
  • Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for stopping all pro-Gaza marches, citing a rise in hatred towards Jews.
  • Badenoch opposed banning a far-right march planned for the same day as the pro-Palestine protest.
  • Police and officials are trying to balance the right to protest with concerns about community safety.
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Guardian World
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Democrats Win in Republican Stronghold in Texas

Democrats Win in Republican Stronghold in Texas

May 03, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A Democratic-backed candidate, Quentin Wiltz, won the mayoral race in Pearland, Texas, a suburb that usually supports Republicans. Wiltz received about 51 percent of the vote, narrowly beating the Republican-backed Tony Carbone. This result is notable because Brazoria County, where Pearland is located, has consistently voted for President Trump since 2016.

Key Facts

  • Quentin Wiltz won the Pearland mayoral race with approximately 51% of the vote.
  • Republican-endorsed candidate Tony Carbone received about 49% of the vote.
  • Pearland is in Brazoria County, a Republican-leaning area that has supported President Trump since 2016.
  • The current mayor, Kevin Cole, a Republican, ran for a different office this year.
  • Local elections in Pearland are officially non-partisan but had clear party endorsements.
  • Democrats also gained seats in the Pearland Independent School District.
  • Republicans retained some seats in other local contests on the same election day.
  • The election results are preliminary and have not been officially certified yet.
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Newsweek
The Last Conversation I Had With My Daughter

The Last Conversation I Had With My Daughter

May 03, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The article tells the story of a mother who became estranged from her daughter after years of trying to rebuild their relationship following issues caused by divorce and alcoholism. Despite efforts like counseling, the daughter cut off all contact, leading the mother to experience deep loneliness and grief, a problem recognized as a public health concern in the U.S.

Key Facts

  • The author learned she would be a grandmother and hoped their relationship would heal.
  • Their mother-daughter bond was damaged during the daughter's teenage years due to the mother's heavy drinking after a divorce.
  • The mother tried to rebuild trust through sobriety, therapy, and proposing counseling with her daughter.
  • The daughter expressed no hope for reconciliation and stopped all communication.
  • The mother experienced severe loneliness and isolation after being cut off.
  • In 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy called loneliness a public health epidemic.
  • Research shows that not spending enough time with family is a common cause of loneliness for many Americans.
  • Family estrangement can cause deep emotional pain similar to loss, but without social rituals or support.
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Newsweek
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