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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Lindsey Graham Dead at 71: Republican Senator Dies From 'Sudden Illness'

Lindsey Graham Dead at 71: Republican Senator Dies From 'Sudden Illness'

Summary

Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina and ally of President Donald Trump, died suddenly at age 71 after a brief illness. He was known for his strong stance on foreign policy and had served in the Senate since 2002.

Key Facts

  • Lindsey Graham was 71 years old at the time of his death.
  • He died suddenly after a brief illness.
  • Graham was a Republican senator from South Carolina.
  • He was first elected to the Senate in 2002.
  • Before the Senate, he served in the House of Representatives.
  • Graham was known for a tough approach toward Iran’s missile and nuclear programs.
  • He was close to Senator John McCain and later supported President Trump on national security.
  • South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster praised Graham’s long service.
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Lindsey Graham, key ally of Donald Trump, has died after sudden illness, his office says

Lindsey Graham, key ally of Donald Trump, has died after sudden illness, his office says

Summary

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a close supporter of President Donald Trump, died suddenly at age 71 from a brief illness. He served South Carolina in the Senate since 2003 and was known for his military background and strong support of military actions.

Key Facts

  • Lindsey Graham was a U.S. Senator from South Carolina since 2003.
  • He died suddenly on the evening of July 11 from a brief illness.
  • Graham was 71 years old at the time of his death.
  • He was a retired Air Force reserve colonel and military lawyer.
  • Graham supported the Iraq war and advocated for military action in Iran.
  • He initially criticized President Trump but later became one of his strongest supporters.
  • His death is expected to have a big impact on Washington and the Republican Party.
  • The senator’s family has asked for privacy and prayers during this difficult time.
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US Senator Lindsey Graham passes away

US Senator Lindsey Graham passes away

Summary

US Senator Lindsey Graham has died after a brief and sudden illness. His office announced his passing on Sunday morning.

Key Facts

  • Lindsey Graham served as a US Senator.
  • He passed away on a Saturday evening.
  • His death followed a short and unexpected illness.
  • The news was shared by his office's communications director.
  • The announcement was posted on the social media platform X.
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My Mother's Murder Trials - Part 2

My Mother's Murder Trials - Part 2

Summary

A daughter suspects her mother of committing two murders. Years later, a court case reveals new information about the crimes.

Key Facts

  • The article focuses on a family murder case.
  • The daughter is the main person raising suspicion about her mother.
  • The mother is accused of killing two people.
  • The case went to trial in a court.
  • The courtroom process uncovered new details about what happened.
  • The story is reported by CBS News correspondent Jim Axelrod.
  • This is part two of a report titled "My Mother's Murder Trials."
  • The story was aired on the CBS television program "48 Hours."
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WATCH:  Simple bike ride leads to extraordinary act of kindness

WATCH: Simple bike ride leads to extraordinary act of kindness

Summary

A 14-year-old boy in Arizona helped save a woman who looked confused and lost in the hot weather. He called her family and emergency workers, which led to her getting the help she needed.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened in Arizona.
  • A 14-year-old boy was riding his bike when he saw the woman.
  • The woman appeared disoriented and was alone in the heat.
  • The boy quickly contacted the woman’s family.
  • He also called first responders for emergency assistance.
  • His actions helped save the woman’s life.
  • The story highlights a simple act of kindness by a young person.
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My Mother's Murder Trials - Part 1

My Mother's Murder Trials - Part 1

Summary

A daughter suspects her mother of killing two people. Years later, the case goes to court, where new information comes out. CBS News correspondent Jim Axelrod reports on the story for the program "48 Hours."

Key Facts

  • The article discusses a daughter who thinks her mother committed two murders.
  • The case has taken many years to reach the courtroom.
  • A trial brings important new details about the crime.
  • Jim Axelrod, a CBS News reporter, covers the story.
  • The story is featured on the TV show "48 Hours."
  • The article is about a real-life legal case in the United States.
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New Library of Congress exhibit features rare draft of Declaration of Independence

New Library of Congress exhibit features rare draft of Declaration of Independence

Summary

The Library of Congress is showing a rare, early draft of the Declaration of Independence written by Thomas Jefferson that includes changes by Benjamin Franklin and John Adams. The exhibit also features important historical documents that reflect America's journey toward equality, including speeches and drafts from Abraham Lincoln, Susan B. Anthony, Martin Luther King Jr., and John Lewis.

Key Facts

  • The exhibit is called "The Declaration's Promise" and is at the Library of Congress.
  • The draft on display was written by Thomas Jefferson and edited by Benjamin Franklin and John Adams.
  • Key changes include replacing "subjects" with "citizens" to reflect breaking away from monarchy.
  • The phrase "self-evident" was suggested by Franklin to replace "sacred and undeniable" rights.
  • The phrase "all men are created equal" initially applied mainly to White men.
  • The exhibit includes Abraham Lincoln’s draft of the Gettysburg Address, highlighting equality during the Civil War.
  • It also features a Declaration of Rights read by Susan B. Anthony supporting women's right to vote.
  • Speeches by Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis during the Civil Rights Movement are shown to highlight America’s ongoing struggle for equality.
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New Jersey works to destroy firefighting foam laced with cancer-linked PFAS

New Jersey works to destroy firefighting foam laced with cancer-linked PFAS

Summary

New Jersey is removing firefighting foam called AFFF because it contains harmful chemicals known as PFAS, which are linked to cancer in firefighters. The state has collected over 150,000 gallons of this foam to be safely destroyed, and fire departments are switching to safer, PFAS-free foam.

Key Facts

  • AFFF foam used by New Jersey firefighters since the 1980s contains PFAS, chemicals linked to cancer.
  • Firefighter Robert Gancarz’s department removed 580 gallons of AFFF foam due to health risks.
  • New Jersey has collected more than 150,000 gallons of AFFF foam from fire stations statewide.
  • The collected foam is sent to an Ohio company, Revive Environmental, which uses special reactors to destroy PFAS and produce clean water.
  • PFAS were also found in firefighters’ protective gear worn during calls.
  • Robert Gancarz and his father “Boots” Gancarz, a longtime firefighter diagnosed with colon cancer in 2024, have been exposed to PFAS.
  • Fire departments are replacing AFFF with new foams made from safer ingredients like soybeans, which still effectively put out fires.
  • Blood tests showed Robert Gancarz has higher PFAS levels than average Americans, raising cancer concerns.
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Exhibit looks at how the Declaration of Independence evolved

Exhibit looks at how the Declaration of Independence evolved

Summary

A new exhibit called The Declaration's Promise celebrates the history of America's Declaration of Independence. It shows how important phrases like "all men are created equal" have changed over time.

Key Facts

  • The exhibit is named The Declaration's Promise.
  • It focuses on America's Declaration of Independence.
  • The exhibit highlights how key phrases in the document evolved.
  • One important phrase featured is "all men are created equal."
  • The exhibit aims to show the changing meaning of the Declaration over time.
  • The news report is from CBS News.
  • The content is available to watch on the CBS News app and website.
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Fire departments work to get rid of cancer-linked foam extinguisher: "It was like sitting on a bomb"

Fire departments work to get rid of cancer-linked foam extinguisher: "It was like sitting on a bomb"

Summary

Fire departments in the U.S. have used foam with chemicals linked to cancer for many years. Now, over a dozen states are trying to collect, remove, and safely destroy this foam to protect firefighters and the public.

Key Facts

  • Firefighters have used firefighting foam containing "forever chemicals" for decades.
  • These chemicals are linked to cancer and are called "forever" because they do not break down easily.
  • More than twelve states have programs to gather and get rid of this foam.
  • The goal is to stop further exposure to these harmful chemicals.
  • Firefighters and others exposed to the foam describe it as very dangerous.
  • The foam is being replaced with safer alternatives in many departments.
  • The removal process involves collecting old foam from storage and disposal sites.
  • This effort is part of a wider concern about the health risks connected to these chemicals.
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Congress passes housing bill without Trump's signature

Congress passes housing bill without Trump's signature

Summary

Congress passed a major housing bill that will become law even though President Trump did not sign it. The new law includes significant changes intended to improve housing policies.

Key Facts

  • Congress approved a large housing bill.
  • President Trump did not sign the bill.
  • Despite no signature, the bill still became law.
  • The bill is one of the biggest housing laws in recent years.
  • The new law aims to change and improve housing programs.
  • The news was reported by CBS News.
  • The report mentioned coverage available on the CBS News app.
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We are living fewer years in good health: Is the NHS part of the problem?

We are living fewer years in good health: Is the NHS part of the problem?

Summary

People in the UK are living fewer years in good health, even though overall life expectancy has not dropped much. Many adults report long-term health problems, and some, like Angie, feel the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) does not provide enough support for their conditions. In contrast, some people find foreign healthcare systems, like Bulgaria’s, more responsive despite extra costs.

Key Facts

  • Angie, a woman living in the English Midlands, plans to move to Bulgaria partly for better healthcare and community support.
  • Bulgaria’s healthcare system combines public and private elements, with employees paying a part of their salary into health insurance and some extra fees for medical visits.
  • Around 36% of working-age adults in the UK reported long-term health conditions in early 2023, up from 31% in 2019.
  • Healthy life expectancy in the UK dropped to about 60.7 years for men and 60.9 for women in 2022-2024, down by nearly 2 years compared to 2019-2021.
  • The UK is one of five rich countries where healthy life expectancy has declined recently, even though life expectancy overall has remained stable or improved.
  • Healthy life expectancy measures how many years people expect to live in good health, which reflects better quality of life than just life expectancy.
  • A UK government spokesperson said efforts are underway to focus more on preventing sickness and reducing health inequality, with some improvements in GP satisfaction and waiting times.
  • The decline in healthy life expectancy is worse in deprived areas, meaning poorer communities are affected more.
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WATCH:  Despite being struck by car, DoorDash driver completes her delivery

WATCH: Despite being struck by car, DoorDash driver completes her delivery

Summary

A DoorDash driver in Houston was hit by a car that was fleeing from the police. Despite minor injuries, she got up and completed her delivery.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened in Houston, Texas.
  • A sedan fleeing police struck the DoorDash driver.
  • The driver suffered only minor injuries.
  • She was able to get up after being hit.
  • The driver finished delivering the food order.
  • Authorities reported on the event.
  • The story was shared on July 11, 2026.
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Whistleblower claims Kennedy Center ‘rushed’ renovations to please Trump

Whistleblower claims Kennedy Center ‘rushed’ renovations to please Trump

Summary

A whistleblower complaint alleges that President Donald Trump’s allies mismanaged renovation projects at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The complaint says renovations were rushed to meet Trump’s personal preferences, bypassed normal procedures, and caused unnecessary damage.

Key Facts

  • Democratic Senator Sheldon Whitehouse released a whistleblower letter about problems at the Kennedy Center.
  • Renovations were rushed to prepare for events hosted by President Trump in December, including the FIFA World Cup final draw and the Kennedy Center Honors.
  • The whistleblower claims Trump influenced the project decisions, overriding the building's actual needs.
  • Trump fired most of the Kennedy Center’s board after starting his second term and replaced them with his supporters, becoming the chair himself.
  • Trump disliked the original gold-colored columns and had them painted white, but the work was done poorly, causing rust and additional repair costs.
  • Some newly installed bathroom tiles were removed because Trump did not like their color.
  • The Kennedy Center’s reflecting pool was repainted quickly and now has uneven paint and rust.
  • These actions allegedly ignored standard contract processes and caused waste of public funds.
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Progressive House candidate responds to criticism over past comments about Black Dems

Progressive House candidate responds to criticism over past comments about Black Dems

Summary

William Lawrence, a progressive candidate in Michigan’s Democratic primary for the U.S. House, faced criticism for his past comments about Black Democratic lawmakers. He had said some Black leaders supported the political establishment, and this led to backlash. Lawrence is now responding to the criticism.

Key Facts

  • William Lawrence is running in the Democratic primary for the U.S. House in Michigan.
  • He is described as a progressive candidate.
  • In a 2024 podcast episode, Lawrence criticized some Black Democratic lawmakers.
  • He said these lawmakers acted as pillars for the political establishment.
  • The Huffington Post reported these comments on a Saturday.
  • His comments caused backlash from people who disagreed with him.
  • Lawrence has responded to the criticism but details of his response are not included in the article.
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5 things to know as preliminary hearings wrap up in Charlie Kirk shooting case

5 things to know as preliminary hearings wrap up in Charlie Kirk shooting case

Summary

A preliminary hearing took place in Utah for Tyler Robinson, who is accused of shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University last fall. The judge is deciding if there is enough evidence to move the case to a full trial.

Key Facts

  • The hearing reviewed evidence linking Tyler Robinson to the shooting of Charlie Kirk.
  • The shooting happened at Utah Valley University in the fall of last year.
  • Prosecutors presented their case during this preliminary hearing.
  • Judge Tony Graf is deciding whether to send Tyler Robinson to trial.
  • This hearing is the first major public look at the evidence in the case.
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Sen. Whitehouse announces whistleblower allegations of construction problems at Kennedy Center

Sen. Whitehouse announces whistleblower allegations of construction problems at Kennedy Center

Summary

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse reported whistleblower claims that the Kennedy Center rushed and poorly managed construction work to meet former President Trump’s events and preferences. The claims include rusting steel, wasted repairs, and broken rules, adding to the controversy after Trump took control of the center and added his name to it.

Key Facts

  • Senator Sheldon Whitehouse received a whistleblower report about construction problems at the Kennedy Center.
  • The report says renovations were rushed to suit President Trump’s planned televised events in December.
  • Poor work includes rusting steel columns, a reflecting pool that may need rebuilding, and replaced bathroom floors over tile color disagreements.
  • The center allegedly ignored contracting rules and spent money wastefully, including an $8 million no-bid contract given to a company inexperienced with concert halls.
  • President Trump took control of the Kennedy Center during his second term and added his name to the building.
  • A court ordered Trump’s name to be removed after Democrats sued.
  • Artists boycotted the center amid the leadership changes and controversies.
  • Senator Whitehouse asked the center’s executive director for answers by July 23 and submitted a large appendix of documents and photos supporting the claims.
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US judge dismisses January 6 case against Proud Boys after Trump order

US judge dismisses January 6 case against Proud Boys after Trump order

Summary

A U.S. federal judge dismissed seditious conspiracy charges against four Proud Boys members linked to the January 6 Capitol attack. The judge said the dismissal was based on the principles of government powers, not the case’s facts, and noted the defendants had been convicted of serious crimes.

Key Facts

  • The case involved four Proud Boys members: Ethan Nordean, Joseph Biggs, Zachary Rehl, and Dominic Pezzola.
  • Judge Timothy J. Kelly, appointed by President Donald Trump, dismissed the case with prejudice, meaning it cannot be reopened.
  • The judge acknowledged the January 6 Capitol attack was a dangerous event attacking people and the Constitution’s process.
  • President Trump issued pardons and sentence commutations to many January 6 defendants on his second term’s first day.
  • The Department of Justice, under Trump’s authority, sought dismissal of ongoing January 6 cases.
  • The attack occurred as Congress was certifying the 2020 election results, which Trump falsely claimed were fraudulent.
  • Around 1,600 people faced criminal charges related to the January 6 riot under the Biden administration.
  • President Trump has defended the rioters and called their prosecution unfair, fulfilling a campaign promise by pardoning many.
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Judge tosses remnants of Proud Boys seditious conspiracy case after Trump's broad clemency

Judge tosses remnants of Proud Boys seditious conspiracy case after Trump's broad clemency

Summary

A federal judge dismissed the remaining charges against Proud Boys members convicted of plotting the January 6 Capitol attack after President Donald Trump granted broad clemency for those cases. The judge noted that the decision reflects the president’s known intent to forgive those involved, but emphasized the seriousness of the attack on the Capitol and the importance of protecting democratic processes in the future.

Key Facts

  • The judge threw out leftover charges against Proud Boys members convicted of seditious conspiracy related to the January 6 attack.
  • President Donald Trump used his pardon power last year to clear cases linked to the January 6 Capitol riot.
  • The judge overseeing the case, Timothy Kelly, was nominated by Trump during his first term.
  • Kelly made clear his ruling was not an approval of dropping these cases but recognized the president’s clemency decision.
  • The January 6 riot was described as a dangerous event that challenged the peaceful transfer of power.
  • Four Proud Boys leaders had their sentences commuted, but not pardoned, by Trump.
  • Enrique Tarrio, former Proud Boys chairman, was pardoned by Trump and previously received a 22-year sentence.
  • Other related cases against the Oath Keepers remain under review with no final ruling yet.
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Trump rips Haberman, says she’ll ‘pay the price’ over health reporting

Trump rips Haberman, says she’ll ‘pay the price’ over health reporting

Summary

President Donald Trump criticized New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman for her comments about his health and mental fitness. He warned that she will face consequences in his large lawsuit against the New York Times.

Key Facts

  • President Trump responded to Maggie Haberman’s comments on his physical and cognitive health.
  • Haberman questioned Trump’s fitness during a TV appearance on MS Now.
  • Trump made his remarks on the social media platform Truth Social.
  • He threatened that Haberman will "pay the price" related to his lawsuit against the New York Times.
  • The lawsuit is described as multibillion-dollar, involving the New York Times.
  • Trump’s post was lengthy and directed specifically at Haberman.
  • The dispute is part of Trump’s ongoing legal actions against media organizations.
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