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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Congress keeps holding all-nighters, creating dysfunction after dark

Congress keeps holding all-nighters, creating dysfunction after dark

Summary

The U.S. Congress has been holding long late-night sessions to debate and vote on important issues like the budget and government funding. These overnight meetings are tiring lawmakers and show ongoing problems with how Congress operates.

Key Facts

  • Senators and House members often work late into the night, sometimes past 3 a.m., to pass legislation.
  • Republican Senator John Kennedy expressed concern about the health effects of these long sessions on members.
  • Congress has been struggling to agree on funding for immigration enforcement agencies and government departments.
  • A recent Senate vote early in the morning passed a spending bill for the Department of Homeland Security, but the House later rejected it.
  • Lawmakers say these all-night sessions reflect bigger problems in Congress, with delays and conflicts becoming more common.
  • Some members believe many lawmakers now prioritize personal interests over teamwork.
  • Late-night fights have become a normal part of how Congress manages urgent national issues.
  • The issue of renewing surveillance powers for federal agencies also caused late-night legislative battles.
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Trump's DOJ Drops Probe of Fed Chair Jerome Powell

Trump's DOJ Drops Probe of Fed Chair Jerome Powell

Summary

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has ended its investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. The DOJ will let the Federal Reserve’s Inspector General review the costly building renovations and decide if any further action is needed.

Key Facts

  • DOJ Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced the closure of the investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
  • The Federal Reserve Inspector General (IG) will now review the billion-dollar cost overruns related to building renovations.
  • The IG has the power to hold the Federal Reserve responsible for how taxpayer money is spent.
  • Pirro said her office will reopen the investigation if new facts justify it.
  • The investigation had caused problems for President Donald Trump’s nominee for Fed Chair, Kevin Warsh.
  • Senator Thom Tillis had withheld support for Warsh due to the ongoing DOJ probe.
  • Jerome Powell said the DOJ subpoenas were a form of retaliation linked to his disagreements with President Trump over interest rate policies.
  • The DOJ did not comment beyond confirming Pirro’s announcement.
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Durbin applauds audit of Justice Department’s handling of Epstein files

Durbin applauds audit of Justice Department’s handling of Epstein files

Summary

Senator Dick Durbin praised the Department of Justice’s decision to have its inspector general review how the DOJ managed millions of records connected to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The audit aims to examine problems in the Justice Department’s handling of the Epstein case.

Key Facts

  • Senator Dick Durbin is the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee.
  • The Department of Justice's inspector general will audit the DOJ's record-keeping related to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Jeffrey Epstein was a convicted sex offender.
  • The audit will review millions of documents connected to Epstein’s case.
  • The review was announced to address concerns about how the previous administration managed the case.
  • The investigation seeks to identify any mistakes or mishandling of the files.
  • This audit is part of broader scrutiny over the DOJ’s past actions in high-profile cases.
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Trump on plans for "really beautiful" resurfacing of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

Trump on plans for "really beautiful" resurfacing of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

Summary

President Donald Trump announced plans to renovate the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool by resurfacing it with a material like that used in swimming pools. He also mentioned the new surface would be colored blue, similar to the American flag.

Key Facts

  • President Trump spoke about renovating the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
  • The renovation would involve resurfacing the pool's stone lining.
  • The new surface would be like the one used in swimming pools.
  • The pool surface would be colored "American flag blue."
  • This announcement was made in the Oval Office on a Thursday.
  • The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is a well-known landmark in Washington, D.C.
  • The plans were reported by CBS News.
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Trump Angers US Ally India With 'Hellhole' Comments Repost

Trump Angers US Ally India With 'Hellhole' Comments Repost

Summary

President Donald Trump shared a video on social media in which a commentator called India a "hellhole," causing strong criticism from India’s government. India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the comments were wrong and did not reflect the good relationship between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • President Trump posted a video and transcript featuring commentator Michael Savage criticizing birthright citizenship and calling India a "hellhole."
  • India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the remarks were uninformed, inappropriate, and did not show the true India-U.S. relationship.
  • Savage’s comments included claims that Indian tech immigrants do not hire native-born Americans and lack English skills.
  • The Trump administration has introduced new rules for the H-1B visa program, affecting many Indian workers.
  • The U.S. Embassy in India responded by saying President Trump values India as a great country and friend.
  • The Hindu American Foundation and some U.S. politicians criticized Trump’s post as racist and harmful.
  • Despite tensions, President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have maintained generally good relations.
  • Trade between the U.S. and India includes tariffs, but there were recent talks about lowering tariffs after India agreed to certain energy purchases.
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US justice department drops probe into Fed chairman Jerome Powell

US justice department drops probe into Fed chairman Jerome Powell

Summary

The US Justice Department has stopped its investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell about cost overruns on Fed building renovations. Instead, the Federal Reserve's inspector general will conduct an internal investigation.

Key Facts

  • The Justice Department ended its probe into Jerome Powell over alleged high costs in Fed building projects.
  • US Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced the shift to an internal investigation by the Fed’s inspector general.
  • President Donald Trump had criticized the renovation expenses and had an ongoing disagreement with Powell.
  • Powell’s term as Fed Chair is ending, and the Senate is reviewing President Trump’s nominee, Kevin Warsh, as his replacement.
  • Republican Senator Thom Tillis delayed support for Warsh until the investigation was dropped.
  • The White House supports the inspector general leading the investigation to provide answers to taxpayers.
  • President Trump wanted the Fed to lower interest rates and considered firing Powell, a move seen by some as possibly illegal.
  • Powell revealed the Justice Department had issued subpoenas and threatened criminal charges related to his Senate testimony about the renovations.
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Man given life sentence for rape and religiously aggravated assault of Sikh woman

Man given life sentence for rape and religiously aggravated assault of Sikh woman

Summary

A man named John Ashby was sentenced to life in prison for raping a Sikh woman in her home and attacking her with religious hatred. During the attack, he called her anti-Muslim names, beat her with a stick, and committed several violent crimes.

Key Facts

  • John Ashby followed a woman in her 20s home in Walsall and entered without her permission.
  • He attacked her with a two-foot stick and shouted anti-Muslim abuse, wrongly believing she was Muslim.
  • Ashby admitted to rape, robbery, intentional strangulation, and religiously aggravated assault.
  • The attack lasted about 24 minutes and ended when Ashby ran away after hearing a noise.
  • He took the woman’s jewelry and mobile phone after the attack.
  • Ashby has 10 previous convictions for 18 offences and a history of drug abuse and mental health issues.
  • He was homeless and recently released from psychiatric care without support at the time of the attack.
  • The judge said Ashby must serve at least 14 years in prison before being considered for release.
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Dam Failure Warning for 200,000 Near El Paso as Razor Wire Debris Possible

Dam Failure Warning for 200,000 Near El Paso as Razor Wire Debris Possible

Summary

A flood warning is active for parts of western El Paso, Texas, and southern New Mexico because the Cement Lake Dam might break. If the earthen dam fails, it could cause sudden and dangerous flooding downstream, affecting over 200,000 people and possibly spreading razor wire mixed with debris in the floodwaters.

Key Facts

  • Cement Lake Dam, also called Portland Cement Reservoir, is at risk of failing.
  • Areas threatened include West El Paso, Mesilla Valley, Downtown El Paso, Upper Valley, Sunland Park, Las Cruces, and parts of Doña Ana County.
  • More than 200,000 residents live in the flood risk zone.
  • Floodwaters could cover major roads such as Loop 375, Paisano Drive, and Doniphan Drive.
  • Razor wire near the dam’s outlet could mix with flood debris, creating extra hazards.
  • The National Weather Service issued an urgent flood watch through Friday evening.
  • Emergency crews and local officials are warning residents about these risks.
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Trump Drained the Swamp—Then Made a MAGA Mire

Trump Drained the Swamp—Then Made a MAGA Mire

Summary

President Donald Trump’s second term focused on reducing government bureaucracy and cutting spending, promising to fight corruption in Washington. However, some actions, like delays in releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files and internal purges, have caused confusion and concerns among his supporters.

Key Facts

  • President Trump campaigned on “draining the swamp,” meaning reducing corruption in government.
  • His administration cut federal workforce numbers and closed USAID, saving an estimated $215 billion by targeting waste.
  • The Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI removed officials linked to investigations against Trump and his supporters.
  • The Pentagon also targeted employees who opposed the administration’s views or supported liberal initiatives.
  • The release of the Jeffrey Epstein files was delayed and poorly managed, causing suspicion and criticism.
  • Trump’s name and photos appeared in the Epstein files, increasing controversy.
  • A Justice Department watchdog reviewed the handling of the Epstein file disclosures.
  • Some actions meant to reduce corruption have instead created confusion and distrust among Trump’s base.
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DOJ drops criminal probe of Fed, Jerome Powell

DOJ drops criminal probe of Fed, Jerome Powell

Summary

The U.S. Justice Department ended its criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell regarding renovations at the Federal Reserve. This decision may help Kevin Warsh, a former Fed board member, to be confirmed for a new role.

Key Facts

  • The Justice Department investigated Jerome Powell about Federal Reserve building renovations.
  • The investigation was criminal in nature but has now been dropped.
  • Jeanine Pirro, U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, announced the decision.
  • Jerome Powell is the current Chair of the Federal Reserve.
  • Kevin Warsh, a former Federal Reserve board member, has been nominated for a position.
  • Dropping the probe may help Kevin Warsh’s confirmation process.
  • The Federal Reserve is America's central bank, responsible for managing money and interest rates.
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US Navy authorised to target Iranian fast boats in Strait of Hormuz

US Navy authorised to target Iranian fast boats in Strait of Hormuz

Summary

President Donald Trump has given the US Navy permission to target fast Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz. This order is similar to previous US operations in the Caribbean.

Key Facts

  • President Trump authorized the US Navy to target fast boats from Iran.
  • The location involved is the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the authorization.
  • The order was compared to past US naval operations in the Caribbean.
  • The move aims to address threats from these Iranian boats in the area.
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DOJ drops criminal probe into Fed chair Jerome Powell

DOJ drops criminal probe into Fed chair Jerome Powell

Summary

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has stopped a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell. This decision clears the way for President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Fed, after a senator had delayed confirmation until the probe ended.

Key Facts

  • The DOJ announced it will end the criminal investigation into Jerome Powell.
  • Powell is President Donald Trump’s choice to lead the Federal Reserve.
  • Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) had blocked Powell’s confirmation because of the investigation.
  • The investigation focused on multi-billion-dollar cost overruns in the Federal Reserve’s building renovations.
  • U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the case will move to the Federal Reserve Inspector General for further review.
  • The Inspector General will examine the building costs to ensure taxpayer money was spent properly.
  • Powell had previously disclosed that subpoenas were issued demanding documents about the building work.
  • The government was investigating whether Powell committed fraud or lied to Congress about the renovations.
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Congress keeps holding all-nighters. Lawmakers say it's a symptom of dysfunction

Congress keeps holding all-nighters. Lawmakers say it's a symptom of dysfunction

Summary

Senator John Kennedy expressed frustration during a late-night Senate session about the need for more time to discuss budget amendments. He also raised concern about lawmakers staying up all night and the impact this could have on their well-being.

Key Facts

  • The Senate was preparing for a late-night voting session.
  • Senator John Kennedy is from Louisiana and a Republican.
  • Kennedy wanted more time to debate changes to a budget that funds immigration enforcement.
  • He spoke about concerns for the health of senators due to long nights.
  • The late-night work is seen as a sign of problems in how Congress operates.
  • The debate took place around 9 p.m. but was expected to continue late into the night.
  • Lawmakers staying up all night is a recurring situation in Congress.
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Trump extends Jones Act waiver in bid to lower fuel prices

Trump extends Jones Act waiver in bid to lower fuel prices

Summary

President Donald Trump’s administration extended a 90-day waiver of the Jones Act, which normally requires ships moving goods between U.S. ports to be American-owned and operated. This extension aims to help lower fuel prices by allowing more supply to reach U.S. markets.

Key Facts

  • The Jones Act requires shipping between U.S. ports to use American ships.
  • The Trump administration granted a 90-day extension of the waiver.
  • The waiver allows foreign ships to carry goods between U.S. ports temporarily.
  • The goal is to increase fuel supply and reduce fuel prices.
  • New data showed that more fuel supply reached the U.S. after the original waiver.
  • The extension helps keep fuel costs lower for consumers.
  • This action is part of efforts to manage U.S. energy markets.
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Justice Department drops probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell

Justice Department drops probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell

Summary

The Justice Department has ended its criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. The probe is now being handed over to the Fed’s inspector general to look into possible cost issues with the central bank’s building renovations.

Key Facts

  • Federal prosecutors are closing their criminal investigation into Jerome Powell.
  • The investigation was related to the Federal Reserve’s Washington, D.C. headquarters renovation.
  • The Fed’s inspector general will take over looking into potential cost overruns.
  • U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the investigation could restart if new evidence appears.
  • The inspector general is expected to provide a detailed report on findings.
  • The probe’s end clears a major hurdle for President Trump’s pick to lead the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.
  • The original investigation involved subpoenas issued as part of the inquiry.
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Who Was David Wilcock? Family of YouTuber Issues Statement After Suicide

Who Was David Wilcock? Family of YouTuber Issues Statement After Suicide

Summary

David Wilcock, a well-known author and YouTuber focused on spirituality and paranormal topics, died by suicide in Colorado on April 20, 2026. His family said he struggled with depression and financial problems and hopes his death raises awareness about mental health care access.

Key Facts

  • David Wilcock was a New York Times bestselling author and YouTuber with over 500,000 subscribers.
  • He focused on topics like spirituality, consciousness, UFOs, and paranormal phenomena.
  • Wilcock died by suicide near his home in Nederland, Colorado, after deputies responded to a 911 call.
  • Police confirmed there was no foul play in his death after searching the area.
  • Wilcock had untreated depression and significant financial debt before his death.
  • His family emphasized the need for better mental health support and denied any conspiracy theories.
  • Before his death, Wilcock livestreamed discussing health issues and current events including President Trump.
  • Some US lawmakers expressed condolences following the news of his passing.
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Hegseth gives 2 questions to TMZ at ‘Operation Epic Fury’ briefing

Hegseth gives 2 questions to TMZ at ‘Operation Epic Fury’ briefing

Summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth held a press briefing about “Operation Epic Fury,” a U.S. military operation related to Iran. During the briefing, he allowed reporters from the entertainment channel TMZ to ask two questions.

Key Facts

  • The press briefing took place on a Friday.
  • The topic was “Operation Epic Fury,” a U.S. military operation involving Iran.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth led the briefing.
  • Hegseth praised the timeline and progress of the operation.
  • Reporters from TMZ, an entertainment news outlet, participated by asking two questions.
  • The briefing highlighted contrast with other long military efforts.
  • The event focused on U.S. defense and military actions.
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DOJ expected to drop criminal probe of fed chair amid pressure from senators: Sources

DOJ expected to drop criminal probe of fed chair amid pressure from senators: Sources

Summary

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is expected to stop its criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. This decision comes after pressure from senators and aims to avoid delaying the confirmation of Powell’s successor, President Trump’s nominee Kevin Warsh.

Key Facts

  • The DOJ is preparing to drop the criminal probe into Jerome Powell related to alleged cost overruns on the Fed's building renovation.
  • Senators, including Republican Thom Tillis, were informed about the plan to end the probe and refer the issue to the Fed's internal watchdog.
  • Powell’s term ends soon, but he will stay in position until Warsh is confirmed.
  • The investigation was led by D.C. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, who opposed ending the probe and appealed a judge’s ruling limiting her subpoenas.
  • Senator Tillis criticized the investigation for potentially delaying Warsh’s confirmation and urged the DOJ to stop pursuing it.
  • Powell previously said the investigation was an attempt to pressure the Fed to lower interest rates.
  • The DOJ has not confirmed officially if it will drop its appeal of the judge’s decision.
  • The federal inspector general of the Fed had already audited the renovation project before.
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Florida Property Tax Push Exposes Rift Between DeSantis and Lawmakers

Florida Property Tax Push Exposes Rift Between DeSantis and Lawmakers

Summary

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and House Speaker Daniel Perez disagree on how to handle property tax reform. Perez says DeSantis has promised to abolish property taxes for over a year but has not provided a clear plan, while DeSantis wants the issue to be decided by voters in November 2026.

Key Facts

  • House Speaker Daniel Perez is frustrated that Governor DeSantis has not presented a property tax reform plan despite promises.
  • The Florida House proposed a bill to phase out non-school property taxes on primary homes over 10 years starting in 2027.
  • The Florida Senate did not support the House’s proposal and plans to develop its own version.
  • Governor DeSantis supports eliminating property taxes but has not backed the House bill.
  • A special legislative session starting April 28 does not include property tax reform on its agenda.
  • DeSantis said the property tax reform should be put to a voter ballot in November 2026.
  • Perez believes Florida voters should have the chance to vote on abolishing property taxes sooner.
  • Polls show most Florida midterm voters support phasing out property taxes.
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Video, images show elite forces searching for U.S. ship's missing crew

Video, images show elite forces searching for U.S. ship's missing crew

Summary

The U.S. Air Force and Coast Guard are searching for six crew members of a U.S.-flagged cargo ship, the Mariana, which capsized after losing an engine during Super Typhoon Sinlaku near the Northern Mariana Islands. Search efforts involve elite rescue teams, underwater drones, and international partners, but so far only one crew member’s body has been found.

Key Facts

  • The Mariana is a 145-foot U.S.-registered cargo ship that lost its starboard engine during a powerful typhoon on April 15, 2026.
  • The ship capsized about 100 miles north-northwest of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands.
  • The U.S. Coast Guard and Air Force pararescuemen are conducting the rescue mission, including diving operations and underwater drone searches.
  • One crew member’s body was recovered on April 21; five crew members remain missing.
  • Search crews have covered over 100,000 square nautical miles and continued for more than 71 hours as of April 24.
  • The U.S. Coast Guard is coordinating with Japanese Coast Guard and New Zealand Air Force in the search.
  • Super Typhoon Sinlaku had winds of up to 150 miles per hour and caused significant damage on Saipan and Tinian.
  • The Coast Guard's search and rescue coordinator expressed support for the families and emphasized continued efforts using all available resources.
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