An Afghan man accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., last year has been hospitalized after he stopped eating in jail. The Justice Department asked to see his medical records shortly after he was admitted to the hospital.
Key Facts
The accused shooter is an Afghan national named Rahmanullah Lakanwal.
He is accused of shooting two National Guard members who were on duty.
The incident occurred in the nation’s capital last year.
Lakanwal has stopped eating while in jail, leading to a decline in his health.
He was taken to the hospital due to his health problems.
The Justice Department asked a court for limited access to his medical records.
This information comes from federal court filings made public recently.
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The Secret Service advised President Donald Trump not to use a new Air Force One plane given by Qatar when he left the NATO summit. Instead, they recommended that he continue using the older Air Force One plane.
Key Facts
Qatar donated a new Air Force One plane to the United States.
President Donald Trump attended a NATO summit recently.
After the summit, the Secret Service told President Trump not to use the new plane.
The recommendation was to keep using the older Air Force One plane.
This advice raised questions about the reasons behind it.
The Secret Service is responsible for the president’s safety during travel.
Details about the plane or concerns have not been fully explained.
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A judge dismissed a lawsuit that claimed Senator Tommy Tuberville does not meet the residency requirement to run for Alabama governor. The judge said she did not have the power to decide a candidate’s eligibility before the election.
Key Facts
The lawsuit challenged Tuberville’s eligibility based on Alabama’s rule that a governor must live in the state for seven years.
Montgomery County Circuit Judge Brooke Reid dismissed the case due to jurisdiction issues.
Judge Reid said there was no clear legal precedent for deciding a nominee’s eligibility before an election.
Senator Tuberville has served Alabama in the U.S. Senate since 2021.
Tuberville is the Republican candidate for Alabama governor.
The lawsuit was described as politically motivated by Tuberville’s team.
Tuberville previously defeated Doug Jones in the 2020 Senate race.
Doug Jones is the Democratic candidate running against Tuberville for governor.
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Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch disagreed with a recent White House report that criticized the National Museum of American History for promoting a "radical" political view. Bunch said the museum focuses on accurate and complete storytelling about America and is reviewing the report carefully.
Key Facts
The White House released a 162-page report accusing the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History of pushing extreme political activism.
The report claims the museum promotes "anti-White activism," "illegal alien activism," and "transgender activism."
Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch responded in a letter to staff, saying the report is an unfair description of their work.
Bunch emphasized the museum’s commitment to scholarship, accuracy, and telling the full story of America.
The Smithsonian spokesperson said the institution has served the public for over 180 years with independent and nonpartisan scholarship.
The White House report was issued by its Domestic Policy Council as part of a review of the Smithsonian.
The Smithsonian has also started its own internal review of its exhibits and procedures.
The White House has not yet commented publicly on Bunch’s letter or the Smithsonian’s response.
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South Carolina Representative Russell Fry asked the state National Guard to stop suspending eight helicopter pilots. These pilots were part of a flyover show on July 4th and are currently under review.
Key Facts
Rep. Russell Fry is a Republican from South Carolina.
Eight pilots from the South Carolina National Guard were suspended after a July 4th flyover event.
The suspensions are part of an official review by the National Guard.
Rep. Fry publicly called for the suspensions to be lifted and the review to end.
The flyover was a part of Independence Day celebrations in South Carolina.
The request was made through a social media post.
The National Guard has not yet announced any decision to change the suspensions.
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A recent poll shows that most Jewish Americans feel that neither the Democratic Party, the Republican Party, nor President Trump represents their views well. Only about 15-16 percent said either party supports them extremely well.
Key Facts
A poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center was released on Thursday.
Most Jewish Americans do not feel well represented by either the Democratic or Republican parties.
Only 15 percent of Jewish Americans say the Democratic Party supports them extremely well.
About 16 percent say the Republican Party supports them extremely well.
Jewish Americans also feel that President Trump does not represent them well.
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Maine Democrats will hold a nominating convention after Graham Platner ended his campaign. There are also questions about a new Air Force One plane reportedly connected to Qatar.
Key Facts
Maine Democrats are organizing a nominating convention.
This event follows Graham Platner’s decision to leave the race.
Questions have come up about a new Air Force One airplane.
The new plane has some connection to Qatar.
The information was shared on CBS News’ program "The Takeout with Major Garrett."
The news is part of CBS News coverage available on their app and website.
The story focuses on U.S. political events and government-related news.
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A recent poll from Data for Progress shows that swing voters like Democrats less than Republicans, but still plan to vote for Democratic candidates in the 2026 midterms. Even though Democrats are unpopular, they are expected to have a good chance at winning control of Congress, partly because President Donald Trump’s approval rating is low.
Key Facts
The poll surveyed 5,809 people, including 447 swing voters, between May 15 and June 21.
Only 29% of swing voters view Democrats positively, while 32% view Republicans positively.
Democrats have a net favorability rating of -29 points, Republicans -25 points, and President Trump -42 points.
Despite this, 33% of swing voters plan to vote Democratic, 21% Republican, and 46% are undecided.
Democrats are hopeful about flipping both the House and Senate in the 2026 midterms.
Historically, the president’s party often loses seats in midterm elections, which usually benefits Democrats when they hold the White House.
Some experts say Trump’s low approval and controversial policies push swing voters toward Democrats, even if they do not fully support the party.
Democrats face challenges because of a lack of clear positive messaging and negative news coverage, including scandals involving some candidates.
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Minneapolis held a public meeting where many residents expressed concerns about the police department’s plan to use drones as part of a trial program. The program would let police use drones to quickly view crime scenes and improve response times, but community members worry about privacy and possible misuse of the technology.
Key Facts
About 50 people spoke at the Minneapolis City Council’s committee meeting about a police drone pilot program.
The program is a free, 75-day trial focusing on the city’s Fourth Precinct to help police respond faster to 911 calls.
Drones would livestream video of potential crime scenes before officers arrive, with cameras aimed away from private homes.
The drones come from Skydio, a California company that also supplies drones to the Israeli government.
Some residents fear the drones could invade privacy or be used for surveillance beyond the pilot’s intentions.
The police said drones are tools to improve safety, not replacements for officers or emergency workers.
Footage not used as evidence will be deleted after seven days.
The City Council plans to vote on the program on July 16, with the trial possibly starting July 20.
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People have been camping outside a courthouse in Provo, Utah, to get limited public seats at a preliminary hearing for Tyler Robinson, who is accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The hearing has drawn strong national and international attention, with only 14 public seats available each day on a first-come, first-served basis.
Key Facts
Tyler Robinson faces an aggravated murder charge for killing Charlie Kirk.
The preliminary hearing is expected to last a week and end on Friday.
Only 14 public seats are available daily, given out by wristbands to people waiting in line.
People have been arriving early, some even staying overnight, to get a seat.
Court security has banned tents and camping gear outside the courthouse.
Attendees must follow strict rules inside the courtroom and be respectful.
The hearing has received wide media coverage, including live streams and reports.
Notable people, like Donald Trump Jr., have been mentioned as attending or being involved.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom asked Democrats to stop supporting Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner after Platner was accused of sexual assault and decided to leave the race. Newsom said he is ready to back another Democratic candidate in the upcoming election.
Key Facts
Graham Platner is a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Maine.
Platner faced accusations of sexual assault.
Platner announced he is dropping out of the Senate race.
Governor Gavin Newsom responded during a press conference.
Newsom encouraged Democrats to move past Platner’s candidacy.
Newsom said he looks forward to the nomination process.
Newsom expressed support for another Democrat in the race.
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The U.S. Justice Department settled a long-running case with Chinese retailer Alibaba over the sale of dangerous drugs and chemicals. Instead of criminal charges, Alibaba agreed to pay $600 million and admitted to lesser violations, reflecting a lighter approach to corporate enforcement under the current administration.
Key Facts
Alibaba and its U.S. payment company allowed harmful drugs and chemicals to be sold to Americans for eight years.
Prosecutors believed they had evidence for felony violations of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.
The case began under President Trump's first term and continued into the Biden administration.
Justice officials debated pursuing stronger charges but ultimately settled for a non-prosecution agreement.
Alibaba paid $600 million in penalties but only admitted to minor violations.
This settlement is part of a trend toward softer corporate enforcement in cases involving public health risks.
The Justice Department said it balances civil and criminal actions to hold companies accountable.
Other investigations, such as those involving product safety at Philips, are ongoing.
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President Donald Trump said he believes the ceasefire with Iran has ended and that the U.S. should "finish the job." However, he also said ongoing attacks do not mean the U.S. is starting a full war or long-term military action.
Key Facts
President Trump stated that the ceasefire with Iran is over.
He expressed uncertainty about wanting a deal with Iran anymore.
The U.S. has carried out back-to-back military strikes related to Iran.
Trump said these continued attacks don’t mean a return to full war or long-term action.
There is confusion about U.S. policy because of mixed messages from Trump.
The recent strikes followed difficult diplomatic talks aimed at an initial deal.
Trump may be using strong statements to pressure Iran to stop attacking oil shipments.
One goal is to get Iran to comply with U.S. demands on its nuclear program.
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Workers are cleaning old paint off the stone columns on the north side of the White House. The columns have been covered with special tarps showing pictures of columns while the work is happening.
Key Facts
Tarps have been put up on the north side columns of the White House.
The tarps show images of the columns to cover them during work.
Workers are removing layers of paint that have built up over many years.
Scaffolding was set up several days before the tarps appeared.
This is one of many projects led by President Donald Trump to change parts of the White House.
Previous projects by President Trump include building a large ballroom and a helipad on the South Lawn.
The work is part of President Trump’s efforts to redesign the White House according to his preferences.
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Pennsylvania’s two senators, John Fetterman (Democrat) and a Republican colleague, have formed a joint fundraising group called Common Ground PA. This group aims to raise money together for upcoming elections in 2026 and 2028.
Key Facts
Senators from different political parties in Pennsylvania are working together.
They created a political action committee (PAC) named Common Ground PA.
The PAC was officially registered with the Federal Election Commission this week.
The fundraising effort targets the 2026 midterm elections and the 2028 general elections.
Senator John Fetterman (Democrat) is one of the sponsors of this PAC.
The other senator involved is from the Republican party.
Such bipartisan fundraising committees are uncommon.
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Tyler Robinson, accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, allegedly confessed to his former roommate, Lance Twiggs, according to a court hearing in Utah. Robinson reportedly expressed regret, admitted to the shooting in text messages, and said he planned to turn himself in.
Key Facts
Tyler Robinson is charged in connection with the September 10, 2025, death of Charlie Kirk.
Robinson’s former roommate, Lance Twiggs, gave testimony and an interview in court.
Robinson confessed to Twiggs in text messages, saying, "I am" the shooter and apologized.
Robinson said he was frustrated with what he described as Kirk’s hatred and could not negotiate it.
On the day of the shooting, Robinson left their apartment early, around 4 a.m.
After the shooting, Robinson texted Twiggs about hiding his rifle and attempting to avoid leaving evidence.
The next day, Robinson told Twiggs in person that the confession was true, cried, and expressed regret.
Robinson said he intended to turn himself in to the authorities.
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Francesca Hong, a Democratic socialist and former dishwasher and line cook, is running for governor in Wisconsin. Her campaign is a key test to see how much support left-leaning voters can build in a state where elections are very close and attracting moderate and independent voters is important.
Key Facts
Francesca Hong is a Democratic socialist running for governor in Wisconsin.
She has personal experience working as a dishwasher and line cook.
Wisconsin is a swing state with very close election results.
Winning over moderate and independent voters is crucial in Wisconsin elections.
The Democratic primary is on August 11.
Recent Democratic socialist candidates have won in cities like New York, Washington, D.C., and Denver.
Hong’s campaign will help measure the strength of left-wing voters ahead of the November midterm elections.
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A new survey shows that the 2026 FIFA World Cup has improved dating and hookup chances in U.S. host cities. Many singles in these cities report more social and romantic opportunities because of the event and the influx of international visitors.
Key Facts
Nearly 70% of singles in U.S. World Cup host cities say their dating lives have improved since the tournament started.
Over 75% say the event made their city a more exciting place to be single.
The survey included 1,000 singles living in the 11 U.S. World Cup host cities.
Kansas City saw the largest increase in dating and hookup activity during the tournament.
About 60% of Kansas City singles have dated or hooked up with a World Cup visitor.
Dating app activity increased by 47% in host cities during the early June part of the tournament.
Larger cities like New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles saw many singles going on dates or hookups with international visitors.
Experts say the excitement and shared experience of watching games together help people connect faster and more deeply.
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A new poll in Maine shows that three Democrats who have run for governor are nearly tied with Senator Susan Collins in the Senate race. The poll measured how likely voters would choose Collins or one of these Democratic candidates.
Key Facts
The poll focuses on the Maine Senate race.
Senator Susan Collins, a Republican, is running for re-election.
Three Democrats who previously ran for governor are the potential opponents.
The candidates include Nirav Shah, a former head of Maine's health department.
The poll asks voters who they would choose in one-on-one races.
Results show the Democrats and Collins are close in voter support.
The poll was reported by NOTUS, a public opinion research firm.
The Senate race is gaining attention as it may be competitive.
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The U.S. Air Force found a mistake in grading a promotion test for security forces airmen. As a result, 135 airmen who were told they earned promotions will not get them after rescoring with the correct answer key, while 135 others who were wrongly denied promotions will now advance.
Key Facts
The Air Force used an outdated answer key to grade a promotion exam for security forces airmen.
Initially, 135 airmen were told they earned promotions to technical sergeant but were later told they would not be promoted.
After rescoring, 451 out of 586 airmen keep their promotions.
Another 135 airmen initially denied promotion due to the error will now be promoted.
The promotion process also considers schooling and time served, not just test results.
The Air Force called the error isolated and highly unusual.
Officials are looking at ways to improve safeguards in the promotion testing process.
The Air Force has faced past testing and cheating issues at the Air Force Academy.
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