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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Trump to give primetime speech on 2020 election: Sources

Trump to give primetime speech on 2020 election: Sources

Summary

President Donald Trump plans to give a primetime speech about the 2020 election on Thursday evening. He is expected to discuss new information from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence related to claims of election fraud, though no evidence has been found to support such widespread fraud.

Key Facts

  • President Trump has pushed claims that the 2020 election was fraudulent, but these claims have been debunked.
  • The speech will focus on "election fraud" and is scheduled for 9 p.m. Thursday.
  • The White House has not revealed what specific details Trump will share in the speech.
  • Trump recently appointed Bill Pulte, who lacks national security experience, to lead the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI).
  • Officials have found no evidence that voter fraud changed the outcome of the 2020 election.
  • In the first Trump administration, intelligence officials reported attempts by Iran, China, and Russia to influence the 2020 election but concluded it did not affect the result.
  • Trump announced the speech on his social media platform, calling it "really big news" related to free and fair elections.
  • The White House press secretary said people should watch the speech to learn its content, as it is not yet known what Trump will say.
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‘People think you’ve got 10,000 cats’: the support group for hoarders

‘People think you’ve got 10,000 cats’: the support group for hoarders

Summary

A support group in Wirral, Merseyside, helps people who struggle with hoarding, a mental health condition where people collect and keep large amounts of items. Many hoarders avoid asking for help because they fear eviction or stigma. Fire services report rising dangers related to hoarding, while housing groups work to offer more understanding and support instead of eviction.

Key Facts

  • Tony and Sarah are two people living with hoarding issues who face problems like landlord evictions or lack of repairs.
  • People with hoarding disorder often live without basic necessities like heating or hot water due to fear of eviction.
  • UK fire services recorded a 78% increase in fires linked to hoarding since 2020.
  • London had over 2,000 homes flagged as high-risk due to hoarding last year, up from 1,200 four years ago.
  • Hoarding was classified as a mental health condition by the World Health Organization in 2018.
  • Many hoarders feel ashamed and avoid seeking help because of stigma and fear of being turned away.
  • Prima Group started a national pledge for housing providers to avoid forced clearances and to support residents with hoarding issues.
  • Experts stress the need for empathy and long-term help, rather than quick evictions or clearance of hoarded items.
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Donald Trump’s Approval Rating Collapses With City Voters

Donald Trump’s Approval Rating Collapses With City Voters

Summary

President Donald Trump’s approval rating among city voters has dropped sharply, with only 23% approving and 76% disapproving according to a July 2026 poll. This decline is much steeper than his overall approval rating drop and highlights growing differences between urban and rural voters.

Key Facts

  • Trump’s overall approval rating is 38%, with 61% disapproving as of July 2026.
  • Among urban voters, only 23% approve while 76% disapprove, a net negative of 53 points.
  • Urban approval decreased by 46 points compared to July 2025.
  • Since the start of Trump’s second term in January 2025, urban approval has dropped by 48 points.
  • The survey was conducted by Echelon Insights with around 1,000 likely voters and a margin of error of ±3.6%.
  • Urban areas have become more Democratic over the last decade, while rural areas lean more Republican.
  • White House officials stated that Trump’s policies are producing historic progress and results are expected soon.
  • The drop in urban support could make it harder for the GOP to win close congressional races in cities.
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Trump Praises 'Cash Cow' Data Centers as His Neighbors Reject Major Project

Trump Praises 'Cash Cow' Data Centers as His Neighbors Reject Major Project

Summary

President Donald Trump supports data centers, calling them important for future jobs and income. New York paused building large data centers for a year because of concerns about electricity use and community impact, and a data center expansion near Trump’s Florida estate was recently rejected by local officials.

Key Facts

  • New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced a one-year pause on new large data centers in the state.
  • The pause aims to address rising electricity demand, higher utility costs, environmental issues, and community concerns.
  • President Trump criticized New York’s decision, calling data centers “cash cows” that create jobs.
  • In Palm Beach County, Florida, officials voted 5-1 to reject a large data center expansion near Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.
  • The rejected Florida project had prior approval for smaller warehouses and a data center before the expansion proposal.
  • The rejection in Florida was made without prejudice, meaning developers can apply again with changes.
  • Data centers are facilities that store and process large amounts of digital information, important for internet and technology services.
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Pakistan resisting UK attempts to deport grooming gang leader

Pakistan resisting UK attempts to deport grooming gang leader

Summary

Pakistan is refusing to accept the deportation of Shabir Ahmed, a British-Pakistani man convicted of sexual abuse in the UK. The UK government wants to deport him but needs Pakistan to agree, while Pakistan says this is the UK’s internal legal matter.

Key Facts

  • Shabir Ahmed led a grooming gang that abused girls as young as 12 in Rochdale, UK.
  • He was convicted in 2012 and sentenced to 22 years in prison.
  • Ahmed had dual British and Pakistani citizenship but lost his UK passport after conviction.
  • UK law from 1971 generally prevents deporting Commonwealth citizens who arrived before 1973.
  • The UK government proposes to change this law to allow deportation for serious crimes.
  • Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry says Ahmed should be handled under UK law and denies involvement.
  • Ahmed was released from prison recently under strict supervision and an electronic tag.
  • Victims and some UK politicians want him deported, but it depends on Pakistan’s cooperation.
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Vance says Epstein had connections to US, Israeli intelligence

Vance says Epstein had connections to US, Israeli intelligence

Summary

U.S. Vice President JD Vance said that Jeffrey Epstein had connections to top officials in both American and Israeli intelligence. Vance also admitted that the Trump administration mishandled how it shared information about Epstein’s case but denied that they were trying to hide anything.

Key Facts

  • JD Vance claims Jeffrey Epstein was linked to high-level American and Israeli intelligence agencies.
  • Vance suggested Epstein’s Israeli connections leaned toward the left side of Israeli politics.
  • The interview took place with podcaster Joe Rogan and was released recently.
  • Vance said the Trump administration made mistakes in how it communicated about the Epstein files.
  • He focused criticism on former Attorney General Pam Bondi for overstating what was known about Epstein’s documents.
  • Bondi had stated she had an alleged Epstein client list on her desk, which led to public backlash.
  • Vance said the mishandling of communication was not due to trying to hide information but due to poor communication.
  • Pam Bondi was fired by President Trump in April prior to these comments.
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Nolan Wells Investigation Turns to Cellphone for New Clues

Nolan Wells Investigation Turns to Cellphone for New Clues

Summary

Nolan Wells, an 18-year-old Black teenager, was found dead after going missing during a boat trip near Mississippi on July 4. His family is working with local prosecutors to examine his cellphone for clues as they seek more transparency in the investigation.

Key Facts

  • Nolan Wells went missing after a boat trip to Horn Island with friends on July 4.
  • He was reported missing by his mother early on July 5.
  • Rescuers found his body in waters near the island the following day.
  • Wells’ cellphone was recovered from a friend’s home, but his family says some messages appeared erased.
  • Authorities said no foul play is suspected so far, but the autopsy results are pending.
  • Family hired civil rights lawyer Ben Crump, known for representing families in racially sensitive cases.
  • Nearly 200 people were at the July 4 event, with Wells one of few Black attendees.
  • District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath promised to present the investigation to a grand jury when it is complete.
  • Wells’ funeral is scheduled for July 20, with security planned to keep the event peaceful.
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Trump imposes 25% tariffs on Brazilian goods

Trump imposes 25% tariffs on Brazilian goods

Summary

President Trump announced a 25% tariff on many goods from Brazil, aiming to address what his administration calls unfair treatment of U.S. companies by Brazil. Some important products like coffee and beef are exempted to reduce the effect on American consumers.

Key Facts

  • The tariffs target Brazilian products due to Brazil’s trade barriers against U.S. tech and payment companies.
  • Brazil is accused of limiting U.S. ethanol access, not protecting intellectual property properly, and favoring other countries with tariffs.
  • The U.S. also criticizes Brazil for weak enforcement against illegal deforestation, which gives Brazilian producers a cost advantage.
  • This action follows a year-long investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows the U.S. to impose tariffs to counter unfair trade practices.
  • Exemptions cover products not made in the U.S. or that would harm U.S. supply chains or the economy.
  • Although the U.S. has a trade surplus with Brazil, the tariffs focus on specific trade barriers, not the overall trade balance.
  • Tariffs will start on July 22, with ongoing negotiations between the two countries expected to continue.
  • Tensions exist between President Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, influencing the trade conflict.
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Starmer nationalises British Steel and visits Ukraine on last full day as Labour leader – UK politics live

Starmer nationalises British Steel and visits Ukraine on last full day as Labour leader – UK politics live

Summary

On his last full day as Labour party leader, Keir Starmer finalized the nationalization of British Steel, a company previously owned by a Chinese firm and partly under public control. While making this decision, Starmer visited Ukraine to meet President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and prepare for the transition to Andy Burnham as the new Labour leader and Prime Minister.

Key Facts

  • Keir Starmer is stepping down as Labour party leader and will be replaced by Andy Burnham.
  • The UK government has nationalized British Steel to protect jobs and the steel industry.
  • British Steel was previously owned by Chinese company Jingye and partly under public control before nationalization.
  • Starmer visited Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy on his last day in office.
  • Andy Burnham is expected to appoint Shabana Mahmood as his chancellor, replacing the previous favorite Ed Miliband.
  • Other political events included testimonies on defence investment and a variety of government statements before the parliamentary summer recess.
  • The nationalization law received royal assent shortly before this move was announced.
  • British Steel is seen as important for the UK’s industrial strength and economy.
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Pete Hegseth says US military to start testosterone screening for over 30s

Pete Hegseth says US military to start testosterone screening for over 30s

Summary

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new annual testosterone test for military members aged 30 and older. The test will be part of the regular health checkup, and any treatment after testing will be the service member's choice.

Key Facts

  • The testosterone screening applies yearly to all US service members aged 30 and over.
  • Service members under 30 can choose to take the test if they want.
  • The screening is added to the mandatory periodic health assessment.
  • Treatments like testosterone replacement therapy would remain voluntary.
  • The initiative aims to maintain the natural physical ability of soldiers.
  • Testosterone levels naturally drop about 1% per year after age 30 or 40.
  • The Defense Department must report to Congress on testosterone treatments and testing under the 2025 defense bill.
  • Some Democratic lawmakers criticized the program and called for hormone screening to include women in the military.
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US imposing 25% tariff on some Brazilian imports, citing unfair trade practices

US imposing 25% tariff on some Brazilian imports, citing unfair trade practices

Summary

The United States is placing 25% tariffs on certain imports from Brazil, starting July 22, due to unfair trade practices found during a yearlong investigation. Some products, like coffee and beef, are exempted from these tariffs. The U.S. government says this action aims to protect American workers and companies.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. will impose a 25% tariff on some Brazilian imports from July 22, 2026.
  • Certain Brazilian goods like coffee, beef, oranges, oil, and aerospace parts are exempt.
  • The tariffs respond to findings of unfair trade practices by Brazil, including weak anti-corruption measures and unfair tariffs.
  • The investigation lasted one year and was directed by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
  • The U.S. has had a trade surplus with Brazil for many years despite these issues.
  • Negotiations between the U.S. and Brazil over these trade issues have not resolved the conflicts so far.
  • These tariffs are imposed under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, a law that allows the U.S. to act against unfair trade.
  • Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized the tariffs and suggested internal Brazilian politics played a role.
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Donald Trump Teases Freedom 250 DC Grand Prix With New Video

Donald Trump Teases Freedom 250 DC Grand Prix With New Video

Summary

President Donald Trump shared a new video on social media to promote the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, a car race planned for the streets of Washington, D.C. next month. The race is part of the celebrations for America's 250th anniversary and will take place on August 22 and 23.

Key Facts

  • President Trump posted a video on Truth Social featuring IndyCar drivers racing on the National Mall.
  • The video shows famous landmarks like the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument.
  • Trump used race car and flag emojis in the post captioned "FREEDOM 250 GRAND PRIX."
  • President Trump hosted IndyCar drivers at the White House to promote the race.
  • The event is part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of the United States.
  • The race will happen on August 22 and 23 in Washington, D.C.
  • President Trump called the race "one of the most unforgettable racing events the world has ever seen."
  • The story is still developing, with more information expected to come.
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British girl, 15, stranded in Rome for six weeks due to new passport rules

British girl, 15, stranded in Rome for six weeks due to new passport rules

Summary

A 15-year-old British girl was stuck in Rome for six weeks because she did not have a British passport, as new Home Office rules require dual British nationals to show a British passport to enter the UK. After difficulties with government agencies, she was eventually able to return with an emergency travel document, but her case highlighted problems with how the rules were communicated and enforced.

Key Facts

  • New rules from the UK Home Office require dual British nationals to use a British passport or a special certificate to enter the UK.
  • The 15-year-old girl was denied boarding for a flight from Rome to the UK in April because she did not have a British passport.
  • The girl’s father, Rowan Somerville, criticized the Home Office and Foreign Office for poor communication and difficulty getting help.
  • The girl missed six weeks of school in the UK due to being stranded abroad.
  • The school and local MP intervened, leading to the girl getting an emergency travel document to return home.
  • Many other children and young adults with dual nationality faced similar issues under the new rules.
  • The girl’s father described a long, frustrating process to obtain a British passport, which normally takes three weeks.
  • The Home Office said it had informed the public about the rule changes via its government website.
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Police release images of clothes to help identify victims of alleged Sydney childcare paedophile

Police release images of clothes to help identify victims of alleged Sydney childcare paedophile

Summary

Australian federal police released pictures of children’s clothing to help identify victims linked to Hamish Tait, a former childcare worker charged with 329 child abuse offenses. The images were found on electronic devices seized during the investigation, which covers several Sydney childcare centers between 2018 and 2023.

Key Facts

  • Hamish Tait, 35, faces 329 charges related to creating and sharing child abuse material.
  • The offenses allegedly happened at 62 childcare centers, mainly around Sydney.
  • Police showed items like a dinosaur puffer jacket and patterned T-shirts to help identify victims.
  • Over 300 calls with information were received shortly after the images were released.
  • Police identified six victims so far; 16 children remain unidentified.
  • Tait has been in custody since July 2025 after police seized nearly 2.5 million files.
  • Charges include producing abuse material and filming private acts without consent.
  • The childcare centers involved include some run by Fit Kidz, which stated it is focused on child safety and support.
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Nowak killer's first recorded confession revealed

Nowak killer's first recorded confession revealed

Summary

Vickrum Digwa admitted to his brother that he stabbed Henry Nowak multiple times, shortly after killing him. Digwa had initially claimed self-defence and said he was racially attacked, but a police-recorded conversation in Punjabi revealed his confession and discussion about the stabbing weapon used.

Key Facts

  • Vickrum Digwa murdered Henry Nowak on 3 December 2025 in Southampton.
  • Within 36 hours, Digwa confessed to his brother Gurpreet while in a police van.
  • Digwa admitted to stabbing Nowak twice: once near the face and once on the chest.
  • Digwa originally told police and family he only pushed and punched Nowak in self-defence.
  • The murder weapon was an 8-inch dagger, which Digwa called a "kirpan," a term disputed by Sikh leaders.
  • Digwa carried a small religious kirpan, but used a different, larger knife to commit the stabbing.
  • The brothers prayed for protection after their arrests and discussed how to describe the knife in legal terms.
  • Sikh community leaders condemned Digwa's actions and worry about the negative impact on their faith’s image.
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Trump’s intelligence chief nominee won’t say Biden won 2020 election

Trump’s intelligence chief nominee won’t say Biden won 2020 election

Summary

President Donald Trump’s nominee for the top intelligence job, Jay Clayton, did not directly say that Joe Biden won the 2020 election during his Senate hearing. Clayton acknowledged that Biden was officially declared president but avoided confirming the election result.

Key Facts

  • Jay Clayton is nominated by President Trump to lead the U.S. intelligence community.
  • During his Senate confirmation, Clayton avoided saying Biden won the 2020 election.
  • Clayton said Biden was “certified” as president, a formal recognition process.
  • He also said, “I am not an election denier,” without confirming the election outcome.
  • The hearing focused on Clayton’s qualifications and views on the election.
  • This issue is part of ongoing debates about the 2020 presidential election results.
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All newborns in England to be screened for spinal muscular atrophy from 2027

All newborns in England to be screened for spinal muscular atrophy from 2027

Summary

Starting in October 2027, every baby born in England will be tested for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare disease that weakens muscles and can be deadly if untreated. Early testing through a simple blood test can help children receive life-saving treatment before symptoms appear.

Key Facts

  • SMA is a rare disease that affects about 1 in 10,000 babies in the UK, causing weak muscles, breathing, and swallowing problems.
  • Without early diagnosis, SMA can cause death within two years of birth.
  • Babies diagnosed with SMA early can get gene therapy that helps them live normal lives.
  • From October 2024, 72% of newborns in England will be tested for SMA through a pilot program.
  • Universal screening for all newborns will start in October 2027 using 13 laboratories, up from the current 7.
  • The test is done by adding SMA screening to the existing heel-prick blood test given to newborns at five days old.
  • The expansion was prompted by concerns about unequal access to testing and pressure from SMA campaigners and public figures.
  • Muscular Dystrophy UK and Spinal Muscular Atrophy UK support the new universal testing plan as a major step for affected families.
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'It's made me have an identity crisis': Londoners speak out about racist abuse

'It's made me have an identity crisis': Londoners speak out about racist abuse

Summary

Several London residents have spoken about recent racist abuse they faced in their own neighbourhoods, describing how it has affected their sense of safety and belonging. The Metropolitan Police report a 9% increase in racist hate crimes in London over the past year, with nearly 18,000 cases recorded.

Key Facts

  • A British Asian man in London was verbally abused with racist language while walking in his neighbourhood.
  • Uzma Hussain, a local business owner, faced 30 minutes of racist abuse outside her restaurant in Walthamstow Village.
  • The abuse caused emotional distress and made victims question their sense of identity and belonging.
  • Food influencer Jimmy Bapu was also racially abused after trying to help during one incident.
  • Some community members showed support and shared their own experiences of racism.
  • Racist hate crimes in London rose by 9% in the last year and almost 18,000 offences were reported.
  • About one in eight reported racist crimes are now processed in the justice system, up from fewer than one in ten the previous year.
  • Activists say many incidents are not reported, so the actual number may be higher.
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Liberals say ‘all options’ should be considered despite Angus Taylor hosing down gender quota proposal

Liberals say ‘all options’ should be considered despite Angus Taylor hosing down gender quota proposal

Summary

Members of the U.S. Liberal Party are debating whether to introduce gender quotas to increase diversity. While party leader Angus Taylor opposes quotas, other senior members like Jane Hume and Anne Ruston say all options should be considered and stress the need to act quickly.

Key Facts

  • Angus Taylor, party leader, opposes gender quotas but supports recruiting more diverse members.
  • Jane Hume, deputy leader, said the party will consider all options from a draft report.
  • Anne Ruston, shadow cabinet minister, urged the party to act urgently on diversity issues.
  • The draft report suggests ways to engage women, young people, and multicultural communities.
  • Some party members question the need for another review, calling it outdated or irrelevant.
  • Former MP Jason Falinski suggests focusing on policies that appeal to younger men too.
  • The Liberal Party is trying to improve diversity and appeal after recent elections.
  • The debate follows previous reviews and critiques of the party's current gender balance.
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Coast Guard suspends search for 3 missing boaters in San Francisco Bay

Coast Guard suspends search for 3 missing boaters in San Francisco Bay

Summary

The U.S. Coast Guard stopped searching for three missing people after their boat sank near Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay. One person died after being rescued, several were injured, and most passengers were safely brought to shore.

Key Facts

  • The boat, named Volare, capsized about 600 yards from Alcatraz Island on Tuesday afternoon.
  • There were 20 adults on board during a trip under the Golden Gate Bridge and to Angel Island.
  • The Coast Guard searched over 950 square nautical miles and 1,700 miles of track line for 23 hours before suspending the search at sunset.
  • One man, Clifford Joseph Boisa, 79, died after being rescued and taken to shore.
  • Three people remain missing: Carol Boisa, Jackie Boisa, and a friend named Tondra.
  • Thirteen passengers were safely rescued, and three were injured but released from the hospital.
  • The boat started taking on water in rough seas and capsized around 3:30 p.m.
  • A dog on board also died in the accident.
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