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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Over 100 House Democrats vote to end military aid to Israel in rebuke to US ally

Over 100 House Democrats vote to end military aid to Israel in rebuke to US ally

July 15, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

More than 100 House Democrats voted to stop $3.3 billion in military aid to Israel. The vote showed growing disagreement within the party about U.S. support for Israel, especially after recent conflicts in Gaza.

Key Facts

  • Republican Congressman Thomas Massie proposed an amendment to cut $3.3 billion in aid to Israel.
  • The amendment failed with 104 votes in favor and 314 against; 103 House Democrats supported it.
  • The amendment included military aid funding as well as some humanitarian aid to Palestinians.
  • Top House Democrats like Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries opposed the amendment.
  • Some Democrats, including House whip Katherine Clark, supported the amendment, citing concerns about Israel’s government.
  • The vote reflects shifting opinions among Democrats about U.S. support for Israel after the Gaza conflict.
  • Progressive Democrats have challenged incumbents in primaries based on support for Israel.
  • The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) remains influential but faces criticism from some Democrats.
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Guardian World Guardian US
9 Surprising Hidden Players in the Socialist Breakout

9 Surprising Hidden Players in the Socialist Breakout

July 15, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) has grown from about 6,000 members in 2016 to over 120,000 in 2024, making it the largest socialist organization in U.S. history. The group works within the Democratic Party, endorsing candidates and winning elections in various states, including surprising upsets against long-term incumbents.

Key Facts

  • The DSA started in 1982 from a merger of two left-wing groups.
  • Bernie Sanders’ 2016 presidential campaign boosted DSA membership from 6,000 to about 80,000.
  • By 2024, DSA membership passed 120,000, surpassing past records held by the Socialist Party and Communist Party USA.
  • The DSA is not a separate political party but acts as a faction inside the Democratic Party.
  • So far in 2024, the DSA has endorsed around 150 candidates and 35 have won elections.
  • Notable wins include ousting two New York Congress members and a 29-year-old defeating a 15-term representative in Colorado.
  • Vice President JD Vance criticized longstanding economic policies in ways that align with some socialist critiques, making these ideas more mainstream.
  • DSA’s success is driven by multiple factors, not just individual politicians.
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Newsweek
Epstein Files Update: JD Vance Admits Trump Admin 'Screwed Up'

Epstein Files Update: JD Vance Admits Trump Admin 'Screwed Up'

July 15, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Vice President JD Vance said the Trump administration made mistakes in how it shared information about the Jeffrey Epstein files, causing confusion. He denied that the administration tried to hide evidence and mentioned that former Attorney General Pam Bondi may have overstated what the government had.

Key Facts

  • JD Vance admitted the Trump administration handled communication about the Epstein files poorly.
  • Vance was speaking on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast.
  • He said the administration did not try to hide any evidence about Epstein.
  • Former Attorney General Pam Bondi claimed she had Epstein’s client list but likely exaggerated.
  • Jeffrey Epstein was a convicted sex offender who died by suicide in jail in 2019.
  • Vance said Epstein had connections to top American and Israeli intelligence agencies.
  • Epstein’s ties to powerful people have been known for years, but intelligence links are debated.
  • Vance’s comments may lead to more public and political calls for transparency and release of government documents about Epstein.
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Newsweek
Sneak peek: Searching for Maya Millete

Sneak peek: Searching for Maya Millete

July 15, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

A young mother named Maya Millete disappeared. Investigators say her husband asked spellcasters to put a hex on her to stop her from leaving him. This case will be featured on the TV program "48 Hours" on July 18.

Key Facts

  • Maya Millete, a young mother, went missing.
  • Her husband is suspected of trying to stop her from leaving.
  • Investigators say he contacted people who perform spells, known as spellcasters.
  • The husband allegedly asked for a hex, which is a type of curse or spell.
  • The story will be reported by Jonathan Vigliotti on "48 Hours."
  • The program airs on CBS and Paramount+ on July 18 at 10/9c.
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CBS News
Trump endorses 'Pillow Man' Mike Lindell for Minnesota governor

Trump endorses 'Pillow Man' Mike Lindell for Minnesota governor

July 15, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump endorsed Mike Lindell, the founder of MyPillow, to run for governor of Minnesota. He described Lindell as a hardworking patriot and supported him as a fellow election denier just before giving a national speech about election security.

Key Facts

  • President Trump endorsed Mike Lindell for Minnesota governor.
  • Mike Lindell is the founder of the company MyPillow.
  • Trump called Lindell "one of America's greatest and most hardworking Patriots."
  • Both Trump and Lindell have questioned the 2020 election results.
  • The endorsement came one day before Trump’s national speech focused on election security.
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PBS NewsHour
Hegseth announces new policy to test troops for low testosterone and offer them hormone replacement therapy

Hegseth announces new policy to test troops for low testosterone and offer them hormone replacement therapy

July 15, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new program to screen military troops aged 30 and older for low testosterone levels. The screening will be part of their annual medical checkups, and hormone replacement therapy will be offered voluntarily to those who need it.

Key Facts

  • The new screening targets testosterone deficiency among troops.
  • It applies to all service members aged 30 and older as part of required yearly medical exams.
  • Troops under 30 can choose to be tested if they want.
  • Hormone replacement therapy will be offered voluntarily to troops who have low testosterone.
  • The goal is to help troops perform at their best.
  • The announcement was made by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington.
  • The screening appears to focus mainly on male service members.
  • This policy is related to the health and readiness of military personnel.
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PBS NewsHour
Biden to release his presidential memoir after the midterms

Biden to release his presidential memoir after the midterms

July 15, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

President Biden announced he will release his presidential memoir called "Promise Me, America" on November 17, 2026, two weeks after the midterm elections. The book covers his time in office, including his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic issues, democracy after the January 6 attack, and conflicts in Afghanistan and Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • The book "Promise Me, America" is President Biden's third memoir.
  • It will be released on November 17, 2026, shortly after the midterm elections.
  • The memoir discusses key decisions made during his presidency.
  • Topics include COVID-19 response, the economy, democracy restoration after January 6, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.
  • Biden also explains why he ran for re-election and why he later decided to step aside.
  • Since leaving office, Biden has been with family and receiving treatment for prostate cancer.
  • Biden ended his 2024 presidential run after a difficult debate performance.
  • Biden’s earlier books are “Promises to Keep” and “Promise Me, Dad,” about his son’s illness.
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ABC News
7/15: The Takeout with Major Garrett

7/15: The Takeout with Major Garrett

July 15, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Todd Blanche is having a confirmation hearing for the role of attorney general. President Donald Trump reversed an ICE order that had suspended most traffic stops.

Key Facts

  • Todd Blanche is the nominee for attorney general and his confirmation hearing is taking place.
  • President Trump overturned a previous order by ICE.
  • The ICE order had stopped most traffic stops.
  • ICE stands for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
  • The news was covered in a CBS News program called The Takeout with Major Garrett.
  • The events relate to U.S. government decisions and law enforcement policies.
  • The information was shared on July 15.
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CBS News
Joe Biden Gives Democrats New Headache with Memoir Announcement

Joe Biden Gives Democrats New Headache with Memoir Announcement

July 15, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

President Joe Biden will release a memoir called Promise Me, America on November 17, shortly after the 2024 midterm elections. The book will cover his time in office, decisions he made, and why he chose to run for reelection and then step aside. Some Democrats worry the book could distract from party efforts to focus on President Donald Trump's record during the election season.

Key Facts

  • Biden's memoir Promise Me, America will be published on November 17, 2024.
  • The book discusses the economy, Biden’s decisions in office, and his 2024 reelection bid.
  • The book’s promotion may start before Election Day and include interviews and a press tour.
  • Some Democrats fear the memoir will divert attention from their campaign focus on President Trump.
  • Jill Biden’s earlier memoir revived controversy over Biden’s 2024 debate performance.
  • Democratic leaders want to avoid distractions from Trump’s record during the campaign.
  • Some Democrats believe the party needs to confront the challenges from the 2024 election.
  • Others think voters will not remember the internal party debates by 2028.
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Newsweek
Hegseth requires testosterone deficiency screening for service members over 30

Hegseth requires testosterone deficiency screening for service members over 30

July 15, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The Pentagon will require all military members over 30 years old to be tested once a year for low testosterone, a hormone important for strength and energy. Those who need treatment can choose to receive testosterone therapy to help maintain their health and readiness.

Key Facts

  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the new annual testosterone screening for service members over age 30.
  • Service members under 30 can choose to be tested voluntarily.
  • Those with low testosterone who are recommended for treatment may receive testosterone replacement therapy.
  • Low testosterone can cause symptoms like depression and weakness.
  • Military training and high stress can lower testosterone levels.
  • Special operations forces may have a syndrome related to stress and injuries that affects hormone levels, called "The Operator Syndrome."
  • The program is part of efforts to keep service members healthy and ready for duty.
  • The Pentagon has not yet given more detailed rules about the policy.
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CBS News
US Mint to begin striking commemorative coin featuring Trump

US Mint to begin striking commemorative coin featuring Trump

July 15, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

The U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the U.S. Mint will start producing a $1 commemorative coin featuring President Donald Trump to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Some members of the advisory committee said they never saw or reviewed the coin’s design, which may raise legal questions.

Key Facts

  • The coin features President Donald Trump and honors 250 years since the Declaration of Independence.
  • The coin will have a gold-like finish but is not made of real gold.
  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent released the coin’s design and said striking will begin in fall 2026.
  • Living presidents rarely appear on U.S. coins; the last time was about 100 years ago with President Calvin Coolidge.
  • Federal law requires coin designs be reviewed by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee, but this committee was not properly involved this time.
  • Committee members said they did not get a chance to review the Trump coin design as required by law.
  • The design was approved by the Commission of Fine Arts and the Treasury Secretary but skipped full advisory committee review.
  • The legal basis cited is the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020, which allows commemorative coins for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
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ABC News
House vote to end Israel aid divides Democrats, with 103 voting in favor

House vote to end Israel aid divides Democrats, with 103 voting in favor

July 15, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The U.S. House of Representatives voted on an amendment to end $3.3 billion in aid to Israel, introduced by Republican Rep. Thomas Massie. The amendment failed, but it highlighted a clear split within the Democratic Party over support for Israel.

Key Facts

  • The amendment aimed to cut $3.3 billion in U.S. aid to Israel.
  • The vote count was 104 in favor, 314 against, and 10 present.
  • 103 Democrats voted in favor of ending the aid, showing division in the party.
  • Democratic leaders, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, opposed the amendment.
  • Jeffries was concerned the amendment would limit U.S. support for humanitarian aid and efforts against groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
  • Some Democrats, like Whip Katherine Clark, supported the amendment to change current U.S.-Israel policies.
  • The vote reflects broader debates in the Democratic Party, especially during primaries where some pro-Israel incumbents lost to more critical challengers.
  • Progressive Democrats prioritized opposing military funding over concerns about humanitarian aid restrictions.
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CBS News
No evidence Mitch McConnell’s ‘proof of life’ photo is fake or AI-generated

No evidence Mitch McConnell’s ‘proof of life’ photo is fake or AI-generated

July 15, 2026 • France24

Summary

Republican Senator Mitch McConnell shared a recent photo of himself with his wife to show he is alive after weeks of rumors about his health. Some people claimed the photo was fake or made by artificial intelligence (AI), but investigations found no signs of this.

Key Facts

  • Mitch McConnell had not been seen publicly for weeks and missed Senate votes due to a hospital stay.
  • McConnell said he was hospitalized after a fall and treated for mild pneumonia.
  • He shared a photo holding a current Washington Post newspaper to prove he was alive.
  • Some right-wing influencers claimed the photo was manipulated or AI-generated without proof.
  • Experts checked the photo against known AI detection tools and newspaper copies.
  • The checks found no evidence of AI use or that the photo was recycled from an earlier date.
  • Image issues like blurry text were due to normal photo compression, not manipulation.
  • McConnell explained older people often avoid showing vulnerability about their health.
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France24
Measure to cut Israel aid fails in bipartisan House vote

Measure to cut Israel aid fails in bipartisan House vote

July 15, 2026 • Axios

Summary

A proposal to stop U.S. State Department funds from going to Israel was rejected by a large majority in the House of Representatives. The vote revealed clear disagreements among Democrats, with some supporting the measure and others opposing it.

Key Facts

  • The measure aimed to block any State Department money from going to Israel.
  • The House vote was 104 in favor, 314 against, and 10 members voted "present."
  • House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and 97 other Democrats voted against the measure.
  • Minority Whip Katherine Clark and 102 Democrats supported the measure.
  • Rep. Thomas Massie, the Republican who sponsored the amendment, also voted for it.
  • Some Democrats opposed it because it would cut all funding, including diplomatic (non-military) aid.
  • Supporters wanted to signal disapproval of Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
  • Some Democrats felt pressured to vote for the amendment due to challenges from left-wing primary opponents.
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Axios
Report: Detainees at ICE facility in Texas report frequent beatings and other human rights abuses

Report: Detainees at ICE facility in Texas report frequent beatings and other human rights abuses

July 15, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

A new report by human rights groups says detainees at an ICE facility in Texas have been beaten by guards and faced poor living conditions. The report also describes lack of medical care, denied contact with families and lawyers, and continued problems despite a change in contractors managing the camp.

Key Facts

  • The report was published by Human Rights Watch and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
  • It focuses on Camp East Montana, an ICE detention center at Fort Bliss, Texas.
  • Out of 71 detainees interviewed, about 90% reported being assaulted or witnessing abuse by staff.
  • Detainees described filthy conditions, spoiled food, and little access to hygiene or outdoor time.
  • Some detainees were reportedly beaten for hunger strikes, medical requests, or complaints.
  • The camp has seen at least three detainee deaths since it opened in August, including one ruled a homicide.
  • An earlier federal report found mismanagement in the Department of Homeland Security contributed to unsafe conditions.
  • ICE replaced the original contractor in March but serious issues have persisted according to recent interviews.
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PBS NewsHour
Blanche AG confirmation rocky as Cornyn, Dems press him on ‘anti-weaponization’ fund

Blanche AG confirmation rocky as Cornyn, Dems press him on ‘anti-weaponization’ fund

July 15, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faced a challenging confirmation hearing where lawmakers from both parties asked him detailed questions. The session was described as more of a performance review than a simple job interview as he tries to become the permanent Attorney General.

Key Facts

  • Todd Blanche is the current acting U.S. Attorney General.
  • He appeared before lawmakers for a confirmation hearing.
  • Both Democrats and Republicans, including Senator John Cornyn from Texas, questioned him.
  • The questions focused on his qualifications and approach to the job.
  • Lawmakers pressed him on issues related to preventing government resources from being used improperly.
  • The hearing is part of the process to confirm him as the official Attorney General.
  • The session was intense and detailed, reflecting high interest in his future role.
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The Hill
CDC: Nearly 7,000 cases of cyclosporiasis being investigated

CDC: Nearly 7,000 cases of cyclosporiasis being investigated

July 15, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Nearly 7,000 people in the United States might have cyclosporiasis, an illness caused by a parasite found in contaminated food. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed 1,645 cases through lab tests, and they are looking into about 5,100 more possible cases.

Key Facts

  • Cyclosporiasis is a foodborne illness caused by a parasite.
  • It can cause diarrhea and stomach problems lasting for weeks.
  • The CDC has confirmed 1,645 cases in the U.S. through lab tests.
  • About 5,100 other possible cases are still being investigated.
  • The total number of suspected cases being looked into is nearly 7,000.
  • The illness spreads mainly through contaminated food or water.
  • Symptoms include intestinal pain and prolonged diarrhea.
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The Hill
Greg Abbott Takes Apparent Swipe at Trump Admin, ICE After Texas Shooting

Greg Abbott Takes Apparent Swipe at Trump Admin, ICE After Texas Shooting

July 15, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Texas Governor Greg Abbott spoke publicly about the fatal shooting of a Mexican man by a federal immigration agent in Houston. He supports enforcing immigration laws but said people should not be shot during enforcement actions and announced a Texas Rangers investigation into the incident.

Key Facts

  • A Mexican national, Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, was fatally shot by a federal immigration agent during an operation in Houston, Texas.
  • Governor Greg Abbott supports strong immigration law enforcement but stated that shooting people is unacceptable.
  • Abbott said Texas must enforce immigration laws even without federal help.
  • The Texas Rangers will conduct an independent investigation into Salgado Araujo’s death.
  • Abbott’s comments came after a second immigrant was fatally shot by ICE in Maine within the same week.
  • Abbott has been a strong supporter of President Donald Trump’s immigration policies and has criticized President Joe Biden’s handling of the border.
  • The White House and Department of Homeland Security had not responded to requests for comment at the time of reporting.
  • The shootings have raised concerns about ICE agents' conduct and the enforcement of immigration laws.
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Newsweek
Heavy smoke from wildfires blankets the Northeast and Mideast, prompting evacuations

Heavy smoke from wildfires blankets the Northeast and Mideast, prompting evacuations

July 15, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Thousands of people were told to leave a remote area in Minnesota because wildfires are causing heavy smoke across the Midwest and Northeast. Over 100 wildfires in Canada are sending smoke southeast, leading to unhealthy air and hot temperatures in parts of the U.S. and Canada.

Key Facts

  • More than 100 wildfires are currently burning in Canada.
  • Smoke from these fires has spread over the U.S. Midwest and Northeast.
  • Air quality warnings were issued for areas from Minnesota to New York and Toronto.
  • Thousands of visitors were asked to evacuate a remote Minnesota wilderness area accessible only by boat.
  • The National Weather Service advised people to stay indoors to avoid smoke and extreme heat.
  • Hot summer temperatures are also expected in the affected regions.
  • The smoke makes the air unhealthy to breathe.
  • Officials recommend protecting yourself from smoke and heat by limiting outdoor exposure.
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PBS NewsHour
Nearly 200 House Democrats demand investigation into ICE deaths ‘without interference’

Nearly 200 House Democrats demand investigation into ICE deaths ‘without interference’

July 15, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Almost all House Democratic members signed a letter asking for an independent and impartial investigation into two deaths caused by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers within one week. They want the investigations to happen quickly and without any interference.

Key Facts

  • Nearly every House Democrat supported the letter.
  • The letter demands independent investigations into two fatal shootings by ICE officers.
  • Both shootings happened within one week of each other.
  • Lawmakers want the investigations to be free from any outside influence or interference.
  • The letter stresses the need for immediate action on these investigations.
  • The incidents involve ICE, a U.S. government agency responsible for immigration enforcement.
  • The calls for investigation highlight concerns about use of force in immigration enforcement.
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The Hill