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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Police investigating after missing teen Nolan Wells found dead on Mississippi island

Police investigating after missing teen Nolan Wells found dead on Mississippi island

Summary

Nolan Wells, a teenager who went missing during a Fourth of July trip with friends, was found dead on Horn Island in Mississippi. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

Key Facts

  • Nolan Wells was reported missing during a Fourth of July trip.
  • He was with friends at the time of his disappearance.
  • His body was found on Horn Island, Mississippi.
  • Police are currently investigating what happened.
  • Horn Island is located in the state of Mississippi.
  • The news was reported by CBS News correspondent Skyler Henry.
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Talarico raises record $30M in second quarter

Talarico raises record $30M in second quarter

Summary

James Talarico, the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate from Texas, raised over $30 million in the second quarter of this year. He aims to become the first Democrat elected to the Senate from Texas in almost 40 years.

Key Facts

  • James Talarico is a 37-year-old Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Texas.
  • His campaign raised more than $30 million in the second quarter of 2024.
  • This fundraising amount is a record for Texas Senate candidates.
  • Talarico aims to break a nearly 40-year streak of no Democrats winning Texas Senate seats.
  • The funds will support his campaign efforts for the upcoming Senate election.
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Massie: Might as well call ObamaCare ‘Trumpcare’

Massie: Might as well call ObamaCare ‘Trumpcare’

Summary

Kentucky Representative Thomas Massie said that since health insurance premiums are rising and Republicans have not repealed the Affordable Care Act (also known as ObamaCare), the law could be called “Trumpcare.” He criticized his party for not taking serious action to replace or change the health law after winning control of the government.

Key Facts

  • Thomas Massie is a Republican Representative from Kentucky.
  • He commented on the Affordable Care Act, also called ObamaCare.
  • Massie said health insurance premiums are increasing under the current system.
  • He claimed Republicans have not made serious efforts to repeal the ACA.
  • Massie suggested the law could be renamed “Trumpcare” because of the current situation.
  • The Affordable Care Act was meant to provide affordable health insurance.
  • Republicans control parts of the government but have not replaced or repealed the ACA.
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Kamala Harris Beating Gavin Newsom by Double Digits in New 2028 Poll

Kamala Harris Beating Gavin Newsom by Double Digits in New 2028 Poll

Summary

A recent national poll shows Vice President Kamala Harris leading California Governor Gavin Newsom by nearly 18 points among possible Democratic candidates for president in 2028. The poll suggests Harris is the early favorite, while other Democrats are split across several candidates.

Key Facts

  • Vice President Kamala Harris leads Gavin Newsom by 17.6 percentage points in a July 2024 poll.
  • Harris has 35.3% support; Newsom has 17.7%.
  • Pete Buttigieg and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez each have about 12-11% support.
  • Other Democratic candidates, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, have less support.
  • The poll surveyed 1,140 likely voters with a margin of error of ±2.9%.
  • No Democratic candidates have officially entered the 2028 race yet.
  • On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance leads with 42.2%, followed by Marco Rubio at 25.9%.
  • Similar previous polls have also shown Harris leading Newsom by double digits.
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The US is failing Black mothers and babies. A lawsuit wants to keep it that way.

The US is failing Black mothers and babies. A lawsuit wants to keep it that way.

Summary

Research shows that efforts to improve health outcomes for Black mothers and babies often fail when they do not consider race. A lawsuit is opposing efforts aimed at addressing these racial health disparities.

Key Facts

  • Black mothers and babies face health challenges linked to racial disparities.
  • Studies suggest ignoring race in health efforts leads to failure.
  • A legal case is attempting to block measures meant to address these inequalities.
  • Addressing race is important to improve health outcomes in affected communities.
  • The issue focuses on how the US handles health disparities for Black families.
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NPS Hit With Complaint Over Exhibits Commemorating Women's Equality

NPS Hit With Complaint Over Exhibits Commemorating Women's Equality

Summary

A Democratic congresswoman, Valerie Foushee, has asked the National Park Service (NPS) to review the Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C., due to concerns about how some exhibits are maintained and displayed. She highlighted a handwritten note used as a plaque in the museum and wants an audit and possible improvements made to the site.

Key Facts

  • Representative Valerie Foushee of North Carolina sent a letter to the NPS requesting a review of the Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument.
  • Foushee raised concerns about the condition and presentation of exhibits, especially a handwritten note used as a plaque above Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s desk.
  • The monument was designated by President Barack Obama in 2016 and preserves the former headquarters of the National Woman's Party.
  • The site tells the story of the women's suffrage and equal rights movements in the U.S.
  • Foushee’s letter asks if the NPS will conduct an audit, identify needed repairs or improvements, and estimate the costs.
  • The monument holds important artifacts linked to leaders like Elizabeth Cady Stanton, a key figure in the women’s rights movement.
  • Foushee emphasized that the monument should be maintained to the highest standard to properly educate visitors about equality.
  • This request comes amid broader federal attention on historic sites and monuments in Washington, D.C.
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Democrats scramble to find replacement after Graham Platner drops out of Maine Senate race

Democrats scramble to find replacement after Graham Platner drops out of Maine Senate race

Summary

Democrat Graham Platner stopped his campaign for the U.S. Senate in Maine after being accused of sexual assault. He denied the accusation. The Democratic Party is now looking for a new candidate to run in his place.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner was running for the U.S. Senate seat in Maine as a Democrat.
  • He suspended his campaign after a sexual assault allegation was made against him.
  • Platner strongly denied the sexual assault claim.
  • The Democratic Party needs to find a replacement candidate quickly.
  • The news was reported by CBS News with input from a political consultant.
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Watch live: Bessent unveils new bridge named after Trump in Tennessee

Watch live: Bessent unveils new bridge named after Trump in Tennessee

Summary

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will officially open a new bridge in East Tennessee named after President Donald Trump. On the same day, an airport in Palm Springs, Florida, will also be renamed in honor of President Trump.

Key Facts

  • A new bridge in East Tennessee has been named the Donald J. Trump Bridge.
  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will unveil the bridge on Thursday afternoon.
  • An airport in Palm Springs, Florida, will also be renamed after President Donald Trump on the same day.
  • Naming public places after President Trump has led to controversy and public disagreements in some cases.
  • These acts are part of broader efforts to recognize President Trump by naming buildings and infrastructure after him.
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Fetterman knocks Sanders for ‘pushing these communists’

Fetterman knocks Sanders for ‘pushing these communists’

Summary

Senator John Fetterman criticized Senator Bernie Sanders for supporting many left-wing candidates. This response came after Maine’s Democratic nominee, Graham Platner, ended his campaign due to a rape allegation. Fetterman said Sanders should apologize to Maine voters and donors.

Key Facts

  • Senator John Fetterman is from Pennsylvania and a Democrat.
  • Senator Bernie Sanders is an Independent from Vermont who supports left-wing candidates.
  • Graham Platner was the Democratic nominee for the Senate in Maine.
  • Platner suspended his campaign because of a rape allegation.
  • Fetterman directly addressed Sanders, asking him to apologize for his support of these candidates.
  • The criticism focuses on the impact of backing candidates who face serious accusations.
  • This situation highlights tensions within the Democratic Party and its allies.
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Army to share findings of Kuwait attack probe with Gold Star families

Army to share findings of Kuwait attack probe with Gold Star families

Summary

The U.S. Army has finished investigating an Iranian missile and drone attack in Kuwait that killed six American soldiers in March. The Army plans to share the investigation results with the families of the fallen soldiers, addressing possible failures in the unit’s defense and leadership before and after the attack.

Key Facts

  • Six U.S. soldiers died in the March 1 Iranian attack at the Port of Shuaiba in Kuwait.
  • The attack was part of a series of strikes after the U.S. and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury against Iran.
  • The Army’s investigation was ordered to find out what happened and why.
  • Survivors and witnesses said the unit was unprepared and had little to no defense against drones.
  • Intelligence showed Iran was targeting the unit before the attack, but concerns were allegedly ignored.
  • Some soldiers blame their commanders for moving troops into a dangerous area despite warnings.
  • The Pentagon says the facility was fortified and denies trying to downplay the attack.
  • Results of the probe will be briefed to Gold Star families, the relatives of soldiers who died in combat.
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Maine state lawmaker says Platner encouraged her to replace him on ballot

Maine state lawmaker says Platner encouraged her to replace him on ballot

Summary

A Maine state lawmaker said that Senate candidate Graham Platner asked her to enter the race to take his place on the ballot. Platner suspended his campaign after allegations of sexual assault became public.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner was running for Senate in Maine.
  • He stopped his campaign after sexual assault accusations surfaced.
  • State Rep. Valli Geiger said Platner encouraged her to replace him as a candidate.
  • This conversation happened shortly before Platner ended his campaign.
  • Geiger shared this information with a local news outlet, WMTW.
  • The events took place in Maine, involving local lawmakers.
  • Platner is a member of the Democratic Party (D).
  • Geiger is also a Democrat and a state representative.
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Nearly 1,000 diagnosed in Michigan outbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite

Nearly 1,000 diagnosed in Michigan outbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite

Summary

Nearly 1,000 people in Michigan have been diagnosed with cyclospora, a parasite that causes long-lasting diarrhea. The Michigan health department reported 992 cases and 40 hospital stays related to this infection.

Key Facts

  • Cyclospora is a parasite that causes watery diarrhea lasting for weeks.
  • Michigan has confirmed 992 cases of cyclospora in this outbreak.
  • 40 people have been hospitalized due to this infection.
  • This is one of the largest cyclospora outbreaks in Michigan's history.
  • Cyclospora infections can spread through contaminated food or water.
  • The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is monitoring the situation.
  • Symptoms often include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea.
  • Cyclospora outbreaks have also occurred in other parts of the United States.
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Watch: Large protest in Houston after man fatally shot by ICE

Watch: Large protest in Houston after man fatally shot by ICE

Summary

More than 1,000 people protested in Houston after an ICE officer fatally shot Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a 52-year-old Mexican man living in the US without documents. Officials say the officer shot Salgado Araujo after he ignored commands and tried to hit the officer with his car, but no video has been released.

Key Facts

  • The protest happened on 8 July near the place where the shooting occurred.
  • Lorenzo Salgado Araujo was 52 years old and a Mexican national living in the US without legal papers for many years.
  • His family and a Texas congresswoman said he had no criminal record.
  • The Department of Homeland Security said Salgado Araujo ignored commands and tried to ram the ICE officer, who then fired in self-defense.
  • No videos or pictures of the shooting or vehicle damage have been released by federal officials.
  • The protest started with a few hundred people and grew to over 1,000 as they marched to a nearby park.
  • The shooting and protest took place in Houston’s East End, a mostly Hispanic and working-class neighborhood.
  • Protesters are calling for an independent investigation into the shooting.
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2 World Trade Center breaks ground 25 years after 9/11

2 World Trade Center breaks ground 25 years after 9/11

Summary

American Express has started building its new global headquarters at 2 World Trade Center in New York City, 25 years after the 9/11 attacks destroyed the original towers. The new 55-story glass and steel skyscraper is expected to be finished by 2031 and will bring thousands of jobs and billions of dollars to the city’s economy.

Key Facts

  • The new 2 World Trade Center will have 55 floors and cover 2 million square feet.
  • It will include outdoor terraces and gardens covering more than an acre.
  • The building will be 1,226 feet tall.
  • American Express will use the building as its global headquarters.
  • Construction began in July 2026, 25 years after the September 11, 2001 attacks.
  • The project is expected to create about 3,200 jobs.
  • The development will add $6 billion to New York City’s economy.
  • Lisa Silverstein’s company, Silverstein Properties, has managed the site since 2001.
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Growing legal bill for failed defence of controversial NSW protest laws runs to hundreds of thousands of dollars

Growing legal bill for failed defence of controversial NSW protest laws runs to hundreds of thousands of dollars

Summary

The New South Wales (NSW) government has spent over $300,000 in legal fees trying to defend protest laws that courts declared unconstitutional. These laws, aimed at limiting protests, were challenged by activist groups and struck down because they violated free political speech. The police also spent tens of thousands of dollars opposing protest permits related to pro-Palestine demonstrations.

Key Facts

  • NSW government spent $117,455.50 on defending a protest law linked to restrictions after the Bondi terror attack.
  • The court of appeal found the protest laws violated constitutional rights to political communication and canceled them in April.
  • This is the second anti-protest law by the Minns government found unconstitutional in six months.
  • Legal fees for defending an older law giving police extra protest powers near places of worship were about $96,400.
  • NSW police spent over $91,600 on lawyers opposing a pro-Palestine protest permit on Sydney Harbour Bridge, losing the case.
  • Police also spent almost $59,500 opposing a pro-Palestine march near the Sydney Opera House and won due to safety concerns.
  • Total legal spending by NSW government and police related to cases against pro-Palestine groups exceeds $305,500.
  • Activist groups argue the legal costs show government efforts to limit democratic rights.
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Why Obamacare Is Getting More Expensive for Millions of Americans

Why Obamacare Is Getting More Expensive for Millions of Americans

Summary

Millions of Americans who buy health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces face large price increases in 2027. Rising medical costs, expensive new drugs, labor shortages, and the end of certain government subsidies are driving these higher premiums and causing fewer people to enroll.

Key Facts

  • Health insurers want an average premium increase of 14% for ACA plans in 2027.
  • Some proposed increases are over 20%, following an 18% median increase in 2026.
  • The cost of medical care and prescription drugs grew 10% last year, faster than usual.
  • New, costly drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy for diabetes and obesity are increasing insurer spending.
  • Shortages of doctors and nurses add to healthcare costs, raising insurance premiums.
  • Federal subsidies that helped many Americans pay for ACA plans are ending after 2025.
  • Without these subsidies, fewer people are signing up, and healthier people may be dropping coverage.
  • Insurers say the remaining enrollees tend to have more expensive health needs, pushing premiums higher.
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Republican Bill Seeks Major Overhaul of H-2A Visas

Republican Bill Seeks Major Overhaul of H-2A Visas

Summary

House Republicans introduced a bill to expand the H-2A visa program, which lets farmers hire foreign workers for agricultural jobs. The bill aims to allow more year-round hiring for farms like dairies and livestock producers, addressing labor shortages in farming.

Key Facts

  • The bill is called the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act and was introduced by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn Thompson, a Pennsylvania Republican.
  • The current H-2A program allows temporary or seasonal farmworker visas; the bill would extend work contracts up to 350 days.
  • It would let more year-round farm operations, such as dairy and livestock farms, use H-2A workers.
  • The bill proposes changes to wage rules and simplifying how farmers hire foreign workers.
  • Labor Department certifications for H-2A workers could be valid for up to three years under the new rules.
  • Employers could stagger worker entry and exit to match labor needs during contracts.
  • Some undocumented farmworkers already in the U.S. may gain a limited way to obtain H-2A status, even if they had prior immigration violations.
  • The bill has bipartisan support, including 45 Republicans and four Democrats, mostly from farming states.
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Lawmakers tell HHS to crack down on discrimination in medically assisted suicide

Lawmakers tell HHS to crack down on discrimination in medically assisted suicide

Summary

A group of U.S. lawmakers from both parties asked Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to create new rules to prevent discrimination in hospices when providing medically assisted suicide. They want better oversight to protect vulnerable people who might face unfair treatment.

Key Facts

  • Bipartisan lawmakers sent a letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
  • The letter asks for new monitoring rules at hospices.
  • The goal is to stop discrimination in medically assisted suicide services.
  • The lawmakers include Senator James Lankford (Republican from Oklahoma) and Senator Tim Kaine (Democrat from Virginia).
  • Medically assisted suicide means helping a patient end their life with medical support.
  • Hospices are places that care for people who are terminally ill.
  • Lawmakers are concerned vulnerable groups might be treated unfairly in these situations.
  • The request aims to ensure safe and fair access to end-of-life options.
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O’Reilly: ‘I believe that Mamdani is a communist’

O’Reilly: ‘I believe that Mamdani is a communist’

Summary

Commentator Bill O’Reilly said he believes New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is a communist. He based this on Mamdani’s support for freezing rents for everyone, which O’Reilly said is a way to control where people live. This view is similar to claims made by President Trump, Republicans, and some Democrats.

Key Facts

  • Bill O’Reilly called New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani a communist.
  • O’Reilly’s statement was made during a Wednesday broadcast.
  • The comment relates to Mamdani’s policy of freezing rents across the city.
  • O’Reilly argues that freezing rents aims to control residents’ housing choices.
  • President Donald Trump, some Republicans, and some Democrats have also described Mamdani this way.
  • Zohran Mamdani is a Democratic mayor in New York City.
  • Rent freezing means stopping landlords from increasing rent prices.
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Former US Olympian pleads not guilty to damaging reflecting pool amid Trump’s renovation

Former US Olympian pleads not guilty to damaging reflecting pool amid Trump’s renovation

Summary

David Hearn, a former US Olympic canoeist, pleaded not guilty to charges of damaging the reflecting pool in Washington, DC. The damage allegedly happened after a $14.7 million renovation of the pool requested by President Donald Trump for the US's 250th anniversary celebrations.

Key Facts

  • David Hearn is a three-time US Olympian in canoe racing.
  • He was charged with one felony count of property destruction related to the reflecting pool.
  • The reflecting pool is a 600-meter-long landmark at Washington’s National Mall.
  • The pool was renovated with a special “American flag blue” liner as requested by President Trump.
  • The renovation cost $14.7 million and had issues like algae growth and the liner peeling.
  • Prosecutors say Hearn “forcefully and violently” damaged the pool liner on June 19.
  • Hearn denies damaging the pool and says he did not vandalize or peel anything.
  • He was released on bond and has a court hearing set for August 5.
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