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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

E Jean Carroll receives $5.6m owed by Trump after court releases damages

E Jean Carroll receives $5.6m owed by Trump after court releases damages

Summary

A court released over $5.6 million that President Donald Trump owes E Jean Carroll after a sexual abuse and defamation trial. This release happened after the Supreme Court refused to hear Trump’s appeal, ending his efforts to delay payment.

Key Facts

  • A Manhattan federal court released $5.6 million to E Jean Carroll on July 9, 2024.
  • The money is from a jury award in Carroll’s 2023 sexual abuse and defamation case against President Trump.
  • The Supreme Court refused to hear Trump’s appeal on June 29, 2024.
  • Trump denied the accusations and has tried multiple appeals to delay payment.
  • Both legal teams agreed the money would be held in a court account (called CRIS) during appeals.
  • Carroll’s legal team requested the immediate release of the funds once the Supreme Court rejected the appeal.
  • A separate 2024 trial awarded Carroll $83.3 million for defamatory comments made by Trump while he was president.
  • Carroll’s claims relate to a 2019 magazine article excerpting her book, which described alleged events from about 30 years earlier.
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WATCH LIVE: Trump hosts Iraqi prime minister for bilateral meeting at the White House

WATCH LIVE: Trump hosts Iraqi prime minister for bilateral meeting at the White House

Summary

President Donald Trump welcomed Iraq’s new prime minister, Ali al-Zaidi, to the White House for a meeting. Ali al-Zaidi is a businessman without prior political experience who became Iraq’s prime minister after a long delay following elections.

Key Facts

  • President Trump hosted Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi at the White House.
  • The meeting was scheduled for 11:15 p.m. EDT.
  • Ali al-Zaidi is a businessman with no previous political experience.
  • He was chosen as Iraq’s prime minister after months of political deadlock.
  • Al-Zaidi officially became prime minister-designate in April.
  • President Trump expressed strong support for al-Zaidi’s leadership on social media.
  • Trump sees this leadership change as a chance for improved relations between the U.S. and Iraq.
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'Explosive diarrhoea' outbreak remains a mystery as officials struggle to find sources

'Explosive diarrhoea' outbreak remains a mystery as officials struggle to find sources

Summary

An outbreak of cyclospora, a parasite causing severe diarrhoea, has infected over 3,000 people in 31 US states, with Michigan most affected. Public health officials are struggling to find the source because the parasite is hard to detect, and recent budget cuts have reduced disease monitoring programs.

Key Facts

  • Cyclospora is a parasitic infection that spreads through contaminated food or water.
  • Symptoms usually appear one to two weeks after eating contaminated food, causing frequent, watery diarrhoea.
  • The outbreak has reached 31 states and infected more than 3,000 people, mostly in Michigan and New York.
  • Tracking the parasite is difficult because it requires testing large amounts of food and the parasite takes time to cause illness.
  • Federal budget and staff cuts have reduced the capacity of foodborne disease monitoring programs like FoodNet.
  • FoodNet stopped monitoring cyclospora recently, limiting available data for tracing outbreaks.
  • Officials advise washing produce carefully, avoiding certain fruits, and cooking vegetables to kill the parasite.
  • The CDC continues to collect data through other surveillance systems and works with state health departments.
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David Penman wasn’t happy with his local Victorian council. So, he privately prosecuted five councillors

David Penman wasn’t happy with his local Victorian council. So, he privately prosecuted five councillors

Summary

David Penman, a small business owner in Victoria, Australia, used private legal actions to charge five local councillors and the council CEO with unlawful conduct related to the council's budget. Due to the law requiring councillors facing criminal charges to stand down, only two of seven councillors remain active, stopping the council from making major decisions until court cases finish.

Key Facts

  • In Victoria, councillors must step down if charged with a crime while the case is ongoing.
  • David Penman launched private prosecutions against the Hepburn Shire mayor, four councillors, and the council CEO.
  • The charges claim the council unlawfully adopted the budget without required financial documents.
  • Only two out of seven councillors are able to serve, so the council cannot meet for major decisions.
  • Daily services like rubbish collection and libraries continue despite the legal issues.
  • Council representatives say the private prosecutions disrupt democracy and community representation.
  • The Victorian government is considering changes to the Local Government Act to prevent private prosecutions from forcing councillors to step down in the future.
  • Local councillor Brian Hood said the council is in limbo and an administrator may be appointed by the state government.
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26-year-old shot and killed by ICE agent in Maine sparks demonstrations

26-year-old shot and killed by ICE agent in Maine sparks demonstrations

Summary

A 26-year-old Colombian man was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Maine early Monday. The Department of Homeland Security first said the man was a target and tried to use his car as a weapon, but later clarified he was not a target and was only trying to flee, leading to local protests against ICE.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened in Maine early on Monday morning.
  • The man who was shot was 26 years old and from Colombia.
  • U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were involved in the shooting.
  • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initially claimed the man was a target and used his car as a weapon.
  • DHS later said the man was not a target and was trying to escape from the scene.
  • The shooting caused demonstrations against ICE in the local area.
  • The situation received media coverage and sparked public debate about ICE actions.
  • Secretary of Homeland Security is Markwayne Mullin, who spoke about the case.
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Justices Kagan and Barrett ask Congress for more Supreme Court security funding

Justices Kagan and Barrett ask Congress for more Supreme Court security funding

Summary

Supreme Court Justices Elena Kagan and Amy Coney Barrett have asked Congress to increase the budget for the court’s security. This request comes after a rise in threats against the Supreme Court.

Key Facts

  • Justices Kagan and Barrett testified before Congress.
  • They asked for more money to improve Supreme Court security measures.
  • The request follows an increase in threats targeting the Court.
  • This type of testimony from Supreme Court justices is rare.
  • The goal is to protect the justices and the Court building.
  • Congress will consider whether to approve the increased funding.
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Taco Bell eyed in explosive diarrheal outbreak; leafy greens suspected

Taco Bell eyed in explosive diarrheal outbreak; leafy greens suspected

Summary

A large outbreak of a diarrheal parasite called Cyclospora is happening across the United States, with Michigan reporting over 3,300 cases this year. Officials suspect leafy greens like lettuce may be the source, and some Taco Bell restaurants have stopped selling certain fresh produce during the investigation.

Key Facts

  • Cyclospora causes symptoms like watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea.
  • Michigan usually reports about 50 cases yearly but has seen 3,309 cases as of mid-July 2024.
  • Forty-four people in Michigan have been hospitalized due to the infection.
  • Health officials suspect leafy greens, especially lettuce, as the likely source of the outbreak.
  • Taco Bell restaurants in the Detroit area temporarily removed lettuce, cilantro, onion, pico de gallo, and guacamole from sale.
  • At least 31 other states, including New York, Ohio, and North Carolina, are also reporting cases.
  • Identifying the exact contaminated food is hard because symptoms can take up to two weeks to appear.
  • Health advice includes buying whole heads of lettuce, removing outer leaves, washing thoroughly, or cooking produce to kill the parasite.
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E. Jean Carroll receives $5M sex abuse, defamation payment from Trump

E. Jean Carroll receives $5M sex abuse, defamation payment from Trump

Summary

E. Jean Carroll has received a $5.62 million payment from President Donald Trump after a jury found him liable for sexually abusing and defaming her. The payment was delayed but finalized after the Supreme Court declined to hear Mr. Trump’s appeal.

Key Facts

  • A federal jury ruled in 2023 that President Trump sexually abused and defamed E. Jean Carroll.
  • Carroll first accused Trump in 2019 of assaulting her in a department store dressing room decades earlier.
  • The jury awarded Carroll $5 million in damages, plus interest, totaling about $5.62 million.
  • The Supreme Court declined to hear Trump’s appeal on June 29, which allowed payment to proceed.
  • Trump did not attend the civil trial and did not present any witnesses.
  • The jury rejected a rape claim because New York state law requires specific proof of genital penetration.
  • Carroll’s lawyers said her case fits a pattern of behavior by Trump, supported by other witness accounts and the “Access Hollywood” tape.
  • Trump denies all allegations and continues to appeal other related defamation verdicts that have awarded Carroll additional damages.
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US military’s death toll rises to 14 in Iran war

US military’s death toll rises to 14 in Iran war

Summary

The U.S. military has confirmed that 14 service members have died in the ongoing conflict with Iran. The most recent death is a Navy pilot who died in a crash over the Arabian Sea.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military death count in the war against Iran is now 14.
  • The Pentagon updated this number on Monday.
  • The latest casualty is Navy pilot Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards.
  • He died in a crash earlier in the month.
  • The crash happened over the Arabian Sea.
  • The Navy officially identified Cmdr. Edwards last week.
  • This update reflects ongoing U.S. military operations involving Iran.
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Warsh vows to tackle inflation in first testimony as Fed chairman

Warsh vows to tackle inflation in first testimony as Fed chairman

Summary

Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh said he will work to control inflation during his first testimony before Congress. Inflation rose 3.5% in June, which is above the Fed’s 2% target, but it is growing slower than before.

Key Facts

  • Kevin Warsh spoke to the House Financial Services Committee on Tuesday.
  • He said inflation creates a heavy burden for American families and businesses.
  • The Federal Reserve's main goal is to keep prices stable.
  • Inflation increased 3.5% in June compared to a year ago.
  • This inflation rate is slower than in May but still higher than the 2% goal.
  • A global energy shortage caused by the war in Iran contributed to recent price increases.
  • The Fed may decide not to raise interest rates soon because inflation slowed down.
  • The chance that the Fed will keep interest rates the same at the next meeting is 86%, according to a prediction tool.
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Massie says McConnell’s calls with Republicans should be public

Massie says McConnell’s calls with Republicans should be public

Summary

Rep. Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky, wants Senator Mitch McConnell’s phone calls with other Republicans to be made public. This request comes as questions arise about Senator McConnell’s current health.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Thomas Massie represents Kentucky in the U.S. House of Representatives.
  • Senator Mitch McConnell is a Republican senator from Kentucky.
  • Massie suggests McConnell’s calls with other Republicans should be open for the public to hear.
  • The request is tied to concerns about Senator McConnell’s health.
  • A recent photo of McConnell has raised questions among some people.
  • Massie mentioned having a nearly 20-minute conversation with McConnell.
  • The discussion was reported by journalist Pablo Manríquez.
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DHS says ICE officer who fatally shot driver in Maine was 'fearing for public safety'

DHS says ICE officer who fatally shot driver in Maine was 'fearing for public safety'

Summary

An ICE officer fatally shot a driver in Biddeford, Maine, after the vehicle fled from agents. This was the second deadly force incident by ICE in one week and the ninth since President Donald Trump started his migration crackdown.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened in Biddeford, Maine.
  • The man killed was a 26-year-old from Colombia.
  • The Colombian Embassy is working with U.S. officials and helping the man's family.
  • ICE agents were watching a location linked to someone ordered to leave the U.S.
  • When agents tried to stop the driver, the vehicle tried to escape.
  • The ICE officer fired because they feared for public safety.
  • This is the second shooting by ICE in one week.
  • Since President Trump's immigration policies began, there have been at least nine deaths involving ICE.
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The translator of escalation: Lindsey Graham’s legacy

The translator of escalation: Lindsey Graham’s legacy

Summary

Senator Lindsey Graham has died, creating a gap in the U.S. Senate. He was known for supporting strong, careful foreign policies that combined moral goals with practical strategies.

Key Facts

  • Lindsey Graham was a U.S. Senator.
  • He passed away recently.
  • Graham was known for advocating hawkish interventionism, meaning he supported using the military in foreign affairs.
  • He worked to balance moral values with practical decisions in foreign policy.
  • His death leaves an important role in the Senate unfilled.
  • Graham was recognized for explaining and promoting these foreign policy views.
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Epstein survivors urge Senate to reject Blanche as attorney general

Epstein survivors urge Senate to reject Blanche as attorney general

Summary

Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes have asked the U.S. Senate not to approve Todd Blanche as the permanent head of the Department of Justice. Blanche will have confirmation hearings this week before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Key Facts

  • Jeffrey Epstein was a convicted sex offender.
  • Survivors of Epstein’s crimes are speaking out against Todd Blanche’s appointment.
  • Todd Blanche currently serves as acting Attorney General.
  • The U.S. Senate will hold confirmation hearings for Blanche this week.
  • The hearings will take place before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday and Thursday.
  • The survivors want the Senate to reject giving Blanche the full-time role at the Department of Justice.
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Watch: Maine residents protest latest ICE shooting

Watch: Maine residents protest latest ICE shooting

Summary

Residents in Maine protested after an ICE agent fatally shot a Colombian national during an immigration operation in Biddeford. ICE said the vehicle tried to escape and the officer fired to protect public safety but did not give more details.

Key Facts

  • An ICE agent shot and killed a Colombian national in Biddeford, Maine.
  • The shooting happened during an immigration enforcement operation.
  • ICE said the vehicle tried to flee and the officer feared for public safety.
  • The officer fired at the driver, hitting him.
  • ICE has not given further reasons for the use of force.
  • This shooting occurred one week after another deadly use of force by federal agents in Texas.
  • Maine residents protested in response to the shooting.
  • The incident is part of ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement actions.
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The truth about Pete Hegseth's strange campaign against beards | Arwa Mahdawi

The truth about Pete Hegseth's strange campaign against beards | Arwa Mahdawi

Summary

Pete Hegseth, now U.S. Secretary of Defense, has imposed strict rules against beards and long hair in the military, following his own experience of being pressured to shave his vacation beard while a Fox News host. President Donald Trump is also known for paying close attention to the appearance of his staff and associates, including preferences about skin, clothing, and grooming.

Key Facts

  • Pete Hegseth grew a beard during a 2018 vacation but was pressured by viewers and colleagues to shave it off on live TV.
  • As Defense Secretary, Hegseth announced a ban on beards and long hair in the U.S. military, promoting strict grooming standards.
  • Hegseth expressed frustration upon seeing sailors with beards, questioning whether his orders were followed.
  • President Trump has shown strong opinions about the appearance of people around him, including staff grooming and clothing choices.
  • Trump reportedly rejected Nikki Haley as Secretary of State partly because of her skin complexion.
  • Trump urges his staff to dress and present themselves in specific ways that align with his preferences.
  • The article links this focus on appearance to a broader idea about political control through aesthetics.
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Trump knocks congressman he pardoned, says he is now ‘fighting’ Cuellar

Trump knocks congressman he pardoned, says he is now ‘fighting’ Cuellar

Summary

President Donald Trump criticized Representative Henry Cuellar, whom he previously pardoned, for running for office again as a Democrat. Trump said he did not expect Cuellar to do this and accused him of being disloyal.

Key Facts

  • President Trump pardoned Rep. Henry Cuellar in the past.
  • Cuellar is a Democrat from Texas.
  • Cuellar decided to run for office again as a Democrat.
  • Trump criticized Cuellar publicly on his social media platform, Truth Social.
  • Trump called Cuellar a “weak and incompetent version of me.”
  • Trump said Cuellar is now fighting against him politically.
  • This event shows tension between Trump and a politician he once supported with a pardon.
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U.S. citizens traveling in Congo must spend 21 days elsewhere before entering U.S.

U.S. citizens traveling in Congo must spend 21 days elsewhere before entering U.S.

Summary

The U.S. government requires Americans who have been in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to spend at least 21 days outside the country before they can fly back to the U.S. This rule aims to prevent the spread of Ebola, which is spreading in the DRC.

Key Facts

  • U.S. citizens who traveled to the DRC cannot board a flight to the U.S. unless they have spent 21 days outside the DRC.
  • This restriction started under President Trump’s administration using Title 49 travel authority.
  • The rule responds to increased Ebola spread in western parts of the DRC.
  • The World Health Organization reports nearly 2,000 confirmed Ebola cases and over 700 deaths in the DRC.
  • Non-U.S. citizens who were in the DRC were already restricted from traveling to the U.S.
  • About 24 U.S. citizens were affected by this new travel rule and need help from the State Department.
  • Many Americans in the DRC work for nonprofits or international businesses.
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will provide health checks for Americans in the DRC.
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U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer rejects EU's tech rules

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer rejects EU's tech rules

Summary

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said Europe needs to change its rules that unfairly affect American tech companies. He emphasized that the U.S. will lead in setting rules for tech companies, rather than Europe.

Key Facts

  • Jamieson Greer is the U.S. Trade Representative.
  • He spoke at an event called Axios House D.C. on Tuesday.
  • Greer said European laws hit American tech companies harder than others.
  • He believes the U.S. should control how its tech companies are regulated worldwide.
  • Greer acknowledged there are real problems with big tech companies that need addressing.
  • He said the U.S. will not let Europe decide the rules for American tech companies.
  • The issue involves who gets to make rules for major tech firms — Washington or Brussels (the EU).
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ICE killing of Joan Sebastian Guerrero sparks demands for investigation

ICE killing of Joan Sebastian Guerrero sparks demands for investigation

Summary

Joan Sebastian Guerrero was shot and killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Maine. This is the second civilian death involving ICE agents in one week, leading to calls for a formal investigation.

Key Facts

  • Joan Sebastian Guerrero died after being shot by ICE agents in Maine.
  • The incident is the second time in one week that ICE agents have killed a civilian.
  • The Department of Homeland Security said the man tried to run away when stopped by ICE.
  • Guerrero's death has led to demands for an official investigation into the circumstances.
  • The news was reported by CBS News correspondent Lilia Luciano.
  • ICE is a U.S. government agency responsible for immigration enforcement.
  • There is national attention on the use of force by ICE agents after these incidents.
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