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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

‘Why take those jobs away?’: the unionized workers decrying Trump’s war on wind

‘Why take those jobs away?’: the unionized workers decrying Trump’s war on wind

Summary

President Donald Trump has taken several actions to stop or delay wind energy projects, including issuing orders and paying companies to cancel wind leases. These actions have caused job uncertainty and concern among union workers involved in building wind farms.

Key Facts

  • President Trump has issued executive orders to halt wind-energy leases and permits.
  • The administration has issued stop-work orders for wind projects under construction.
  • Over $2.6 billion has been paid to companies to cancel wind energy leases.
  • Hundreds of union workers involved in wind projects have been affected by these actions.
  • A union electrician described the stress and job uncertainty caused by stop-work orders.
  • The Revolution Wind Project is over 90% complete and will power over 350,000 homes.
  • The Trump administration abandoned a court challenge to freeze all wind project permits.
  • Union leaders say wind projects provide good jobs and help reduce carbon emissions.
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8 years after Janus, unions are still trying to keep workers in the dark

8 years after Janus, unions are still trying to keep workers in the dark

Summary

Eight years after the Janus decision, many workers have chosen to leave their unions. The period is marked more by workers making individual choices than by union collapse.

Key Facts

  • The Janus decision happened eight years ago.
  • It gave workers the real option to leave their unions.
  • Since then, hundreds of thousands of workers have left unions.
  • The situation shows workers exercising choice more than unions falling apart.
  • Unions are still trying to keep some workers unaware or uninformed.
  • The focus is on the relationship between unions and their members in the U.S.
  • The story is about changes in union membership after Janus.
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Democrats to choose between progressive and establishment candidate in Michigan as McMorrow drops out of race – US politics live

Democrats to choose between progressive and establishment candidate in Michigan as McMorrow drops out of race – US politics live

Summary

Democrat Mallory McMorrow has left the race for the US Senate seat in Michigan, leaving two main candidates: progressive Abdul El-Sayed and moderate Haley Stevens. El-Sayed supports Medicare for All and has backing from prominent left-wing leaders, while Stevens is supported by Democratic establishment figures and major donors.

Key Facts

  • McMorrow dropped out of the Michigan Democratic Senate primary race.
  • Abdul El-Sayed is the progressive frontrunner, supporting Medicare for All and possibly becoming the first Muslim US senator.
  • El-Sayed has endorsements from Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
  • Haley Stevens, a moderate Democrat and Congresswoman, is El-Sayed's main rival.
  • Stevens has support from Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and Super PACs, including pro-Israel groups.
  • El-Sayed has faced criticism for his comments on US aid to Israel and his refusal to affirm Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state.
  • The seat is open because current senator Gary Peters is leaving.
  • McMorrow described her campaign suspension as a pause but vowed to continue fighting for her causes.
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Sensory prom a 'perfect end' for school leavers with SEND

Sensory prom a 'perfect end' for school leavers with SEND

Summary

A sensory prom was held in Coventry for school leavers with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to provide a supportive and enjoyable event. The prom included features like quieter music and separate rooms to help students comfortable while still offering traditional prom activities.

Key Facts

  • The sensory prom took place on June 30 at the 147 club in Coventry.
  • It was designed specifically for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
  • The event included a quiet disco with low-volume music and a silent disco for those sensitive to noise.
  • There were traditional prom features like a photo booth and dancing.
  • Attendees could use separate rooms to take breaks if the environment became overwhelming.
  • The event aimed to provide a similar experience to mainstream proms but with support tailored to SEND students.
  • Parents praised the event for allowing their children to enjoy the end of school in a fun and comfortable way.
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Scaffolding Remains at White House As Trump Posts Photo of Ornate Columns

Scaffolding Remains at White House As Trump Posts Photo of Ornate Columns

Summary

Scaffolding has been set up around some of the White House’s North Portico columns. The White House says the work is routine repair, but some people are wondering if President Trump plans to change the columns’ style from Ionic to Corinthian.

Key Facts

  • Workers were seen on scaffolding around the White House’s North Portico columns over the July 4 weekend.
  • There is no public proof that the columns will be replaced; the White House calls it standard stone repair.
  • Rodney Mims Cook Jr., chairman of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, suggested replacing the Ionic columns with Corinthian ones.
  • Corinthian columns are considered more decorative and are used on other government buildings.
  • The idea to change columns has faced criticism from architects and historic preservation groups.
  • President Trump posted on social media about Corinthian columns shortly before the scaffolding appeared.
  • The White House is also conducting several other renovation projects in Washington, D.C., including work on the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and plans for a large new ballroom.
  • Some of these renovation projects have faced legal challenges and public concerns.
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Green Card Update: Trump Admin Plans To Overhaul Employer Sponsorship Rules

Green Card Update: Trump Admin Plans To Overhaul Employer Sponsorship Rules

Summary

The Trump administration plans to change the rules for employers who sponsor foreign workers for permanent U.S. residency. The Department of Labor aims to update the PERM labor certification process, which could make it harder and slower for employers and foreign workers to complete green card applications.

Key Facts

  • The Department of Labor will update the Program Electronic Review Management (PERM) system used for employer sponsorship of foreign workers.
  • Employers must currently prove no qualified U.S. workers are available before hiring a foreign worker permanently.
  • The process includes wage reviews, job ads in newspapers and online, and recruiting efforts like job fairs or campus recruiting.
  • These rules have not been updated much since 2004, despite changes in how employers recruit workers.
  • Planned changes may include stricter documentation, more recruitment steps, and stronger protections for U.S. workers.
  • These updates could increase the time and cost of sponsoring foreign workers for permanent residency.
  • The review fits into the Trump administration’s broader efforts to tighten legal immigration programs.
  • Details of the new rules are not yet published and are being closely watched by businesses and immigration attorneys.
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WATCH:  Top moments from 'Disney Celebrates America'

WATCH: Top moments from 'Disney Celebrates America'

Summary

Disney aired a special program called "Disney Celebrates America" to mark the 250th birthday of the United States. The coverage included highlights from fireworks, patriotic performances, and celebrations of American history and culture.

Key Facts

  • The event celebrated America's 250th birthday.
  • Disney provided 24 hours of coverage for the celebration.
  • Highlights included fireworks lighting up the sky.
  • Performances such as Brandi Carlile singing "America the Beautiful" were featured.
  • The program showcased American history, including military families and cultural heritage.
  • A parade of tall ships took place on the Hudson River.
  • The event also included stories about important American figures and legacies.
  • The special was part of nationwide celebrations for Independence Day.
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Trump is a danger to US democracy. But the resistance is working | Kenneth Roth

Trump is a danger to US democracy. But the resistance is working | Kenneth Roth

Summary

The article discusses President Donald Trump’s impact on U.S. democracy, describing how he challenges the system of checks and balances by trying to increase his power. It highlights efforts by courts, the media, universities, and other institutions to resist these attempts, while also noting some disappointments, especially in the Republican-led Congress.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is seen as trying to weaken the limits on presidential power.
  • The U.S. system of checks and balances is working to limit his actions.
  • The Republican-led Congress often supports Trump but recently opposed some of his proposals.
  • Over 300 lawsuits have challenged Trump’s administration, with mixed success in courts.
  • The Supreme Court has both supported and blocked Trump in important cases.
  • Media outlets face pressure from Trump, but many independent voices continue to report critically.
  • Some media owners have altered their coverage due to business concerns related to Trump.
  • Universities have resisted Trump’s attempts to control them, though funding cuts have caused challenges.
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The one change that worked: I banned myself from social media – and my children have never been happier

The one change that worked: I banned myself from social media – and my children have never been happier

Summary

A psychotherapist shared how banning herself from social media during the hours her children are home helped her become calmer and more present as a mother. She used an app to block access to social media and email, which reduced her irritation and improved her family relationships.

Key Facts

  • The author is a psychotherapist who noticed social media made her more irritable and less present with her children.
  • She recognized that phone use during stressful times is linked to brain biology, especially when tired or overwhelmed.
  • She used an app called App Block to prevent herself from using social media and email while her children were home.
  • Limiting phone use helped her feel less stressed and more able to enjoy time with her family.
  • She started narrating her phone actions out loud to stay accountable and show her kids she was not disappearing.
  • This change also improved her relationship with her husband because they spent more time interacting without phones.
  • Reading physical books in the evening replaced phone use and helped her relax more.
  • Being less distracted by technology allowed her to be more present and connected with her children.
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‘Impossible to be a mom’: new film shines light on how America fails its mothers

‘Impossible to be a mom’: new film shines light on how America fails its mothers

Summary

The documentary "No Country for Mothers" highlights how mothers in the U.S. lack enough support, especially for paid leave and affordable childcare. It is being shown across the country in community spaces by moms themselves to encourage collective action and political change.

Key Facts

  • The film is not released on streaming or festivals but shown in-person by moms nationwide.
  • It focuses on the lack of paid family leave and childcare support in America.
  • The documentary shows how past political efforts have failed, including a childcare bill vetoed by President Nixon.
  • Some states have created paid leave programs, but federal support remains limited.
  • President Donald Trump has said the federal government cannot manage childcare funding and left it to states.
  • The film includes interviews with mothers from different political backgrounds and shows struggles faced by working and stay-at-home moms.
  • Reshma Saujani, the executive producer, organized the film to bring moms together beyond political and cultural divisions.
  • Thousands of moms contributed stories and helped host screenings, aiming to unite on shared goals like universal childcare.
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Weather service faces hurricane season with less experienced staff, missing data

Weather service faces hurricane season with less experienced staff, missing data

Summary

The National Weather Service is working to fill hundreds of entry-level jobs after losing many experienced staff due to job cuts during President Donald Trump’s administration. Experts worry that the lack of senior meteorologists could affect the quality of weather forecasts as hurricane season starts.

Key Facts

  • The National Weather Service lost about 15% of its staff last year because of job cuts and buyouts ordered by President Trump’s administration.
  • Most of the lost employees were experienced meteorologists.
  • The agency is now hiring many early-career scientists to fill the gaps.
  • Some former employees worry that new, less experienced workers may struggle without enough experienced mentors.
  • Hurricane season begins on June 1 and is one of the busiest times for weather forecasters.
  • Staffing shortages led to some forecast offices cutting full-time hours and suspending weather balloon launches last year.
  • NOAA had nearly 300 fewer meteorologists and hydrologists as of May compared to January 2025.
  • Specialized forecasting skills, especially in places like Alaska, take years of hands-on experience to develop.
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Anti-incumbent mood sweeping country in troubling sign for GOP majorities

Anti-incumbent mood sweeping country in troubling sign for GOP majorities

Summary

Many voters in the United States are unhappy with current politicians as the country marks its 250th anniversary. This widespread frustration is making it harder for the Republican Party to keep control of Congress, especially because President Donald Trump’s popularity has dropped.

Key Facts

  • There is a growing dislike of current officeholders across the country.
  • This trend is happening during the nation’s 250th anniversary.
  • Political experts see this mood as a challenge for Republicans to hold their majority in the House and Senate.
  • President Donald Trump’s approval ratings have fallen.
  • Voter anger affects both major political parties.
  • At least eight current House members, including five Democrats, are facing difficulties.
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Abdul El-Sayed’s Chances of Winning Michigan Primary as McMorrow Ends Race

Abdul El-Sayed’s Chances of Winning Michigan Primary as McMorrow Ends Race

Summary

Michigan Senator Mallory McMorrow ended her campaign for the Democratic U.S. Senate primary, leaving Representative Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed as the main candidates. El-Sayed, a progressive, leads in the polls and aims to fill the seat vacated by retiring Senator Gary Peters in a key race that could affect control of the U.S. Senate.

Key Facts

  • Mallory McMorrow dropped out of the Michigan Democratic Senate primary after 15 months of campaigning.
  • The primary now features Haley Stevens, a centrist supported by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive backed by Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
  • Gary Peters, the current Democratic Senator, is retiring from the Michigan seat.
  • Michigan was narrowly won by President Donald Trump in 2024, making this Senate seat especially important for Democrats.
  • El-Sayed has led in polls since May and is confident he can win the general election.
  • McMorrow cited low support and a crowded race when she suspended her campaign but pledged to continue fighting for Democratic causes.
  • El-Sayed criticized party insiders for spending large amounts of money to influence the race and invited McMorrow’s supporters to join his campaign.
  • Haley Stevens praised McMorrow and called on Democratic voters to support her as the strongest candidate for the general election.
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Vance's hot summer positions to be Trump's heir — for now

Vance's hot summer positions to be Trump's heir — for now

Summary

JD Vance, the Vice President, has gained attention for his book, role in a peace deal with Iran, media appearances, and fundraising efforts. President Donald Trump views Vance as his likely political successor if he runs for president again in 2028, with another key aide, Marco Rubio, less inclined to run.

Key Facts

  • JD Vance published a book titled "Communion: Finding My Way Back to Faith" in mid-June.
  • Vance helped negotiate a memorandum of understanding with Iran, aimed at easing conflict.
  • He has appeared in 33 interviews in June on various media platforms, increasing his public visibility.
  • President Trump praised Vance’s performances and now favors him as a potential 2028 presidential candidate.
  • Vance has raised about $70 million for the Republican National Committee, building a strong fundraising network.
  • Vance's favorability among Republicans is 62%, close to Trump’s 65% and higher than Rubio’s 51%, according to recent polling.
  • Marco Rubio is unlikely to run for president and lacks the campaign infrastructure that Vance has.
  • Some conservatives criticize Vance’s economic views and his role in the Iran deal, causing some political tension.
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Democratic socialists give new life to Medicare for All

Democratic socialists give new life to Medicare for All

Summary

Progressive and democratic socialist candidates have won several primary elections, showing a renewed interest in Medicare for All, a government-run health insurance system. This reflects growing voter frustration with high medical costs and insurance issues. However, some experts say passing such plans would be difficult while Republicans and President Donald Trump oppose them.

Key Facts

  • Progressive candidates won recent primaries in Colorado, New York, Illinois, and Maine, supporting Medicare for All.
  • Melat Kiros defeated a long-term congresswoman in Colorado by campaigning for a single-payer health system.
  • Some incumbents support Medicare for All but did not emphasize it strongly during campaigns.
  • Democratic voters are seeking bold health care ideas beyond small, gradual changes.
  • Republicans and President Donald Trump are expected to block Medicare for All legislation.
  • Health insurers oppose Medicare for All, warning it would increase government costs and reduce patient choice.
  • Progressive winners aim to keep pushing the conversation and build public support for Medicare for All.
  • Other health care reforms, like removing pharmacy benefit managers, are also being proposed by some candidates.
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Prosecutors to present evidence against Charlie Kirk's alleged assassin

Prosecutors to present evidence against Charlie Kirk's alleged assassin

Summary

Prosecutors in Utah are presenting evidence to decide if Tyler Robinson will stand trial for the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Robinson faces multiple serious charges, and prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty if the case goes to trial.

Key Facts

  • Tyler James Robinson, 23, is accused of killing Charlie Kirk at an outdoor rally in September 2025.
  • The shooting occurred at Utah Valley University during Kirk’s "The American Comeback Tour."
  • Kirk was hit by a single bullet to the neck and later died at a hospital.
  • Robinson is charged with aggravated murder and several related crimes, including witness tampering.
  • A preliminary hearing is being held to determine if there is enough evidence for a trial.
  • Prosecutors want the death penalty if Robinson is tried and convicted.
  • Robinson surrendered after a manhunt when his father recognized him from photos.
  • Charlie Kirk was a conservative activist and ally of President Donald Trump.
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Switching to a cheaper health plan delayed a man's access to vital medicine

Switching to a cheaper health plan delayed a man's access to vital medicine

Summary

A man in Florida named Derion Blackman delayed getting important heart medicines after switching to a cheaper health insurance plan. This delay contributed to his health worsening, causing him to collapse and eventually die. The article explains how changing health plans can create problems for patients who need steady access to medications.

Key Facts

  • Derion Blackman had a heart transplant two years before and needed daily antirejection medicines.
  • The family switched from a Federal Employees Health Benefits plan to CHAMPVA to save money because costs had increased.
  • CHAMPVA has no monthly premium but a high $3,000 deductible.
  • After switching, Blackman faced problems getting approval for his medicines and ran out about a month into the new plan.
  • Missing antirejection drugs can cause serious heart problems.
  • Health insurance systems in the U.S. are complicated, with different rules for each plan causing delays when people switch.
  • The Trump administration made some changes to reduce paperwork but issues remain.
  • Rising insurance costs and changes to subsidies and Medicaid rules are making it harder for many people to keep consistent care.
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Farage says he's 'done no wrongdoing' after benefits from ally not declared

Farage says he's 'done no wrongdoing' after benefits from ally not declared

Summary

Nigel Farage said he did nothing wrong after reports showed he did not declare certain benefits from George Cottrell, an ally once convicted of fraud in the US. The matter has led to calls for a parliamentary investigation into whether Farage followed rules about declaring financial support before he became a Member of Parliament (MP).

Key Facts

  • Nigel Farage did not declare benefits from George Cottrell, who was convicted of wire fraud in the US in 2017.
  • Benefits included security staff, social media workers, and use of a property near Buckingham Palace.
  • UK rules say new MPs must declare financial interests or benefits received in the 12 months before their election.
  • Farage says he followed the rules and that the benefits were received before he became an MP.
  • Liberal Democrat MP Josh Babarinde has asked for a formal investigation into Farage’s declarations.
  • Farage is already under investigation for not declaring a £5 million gift from another donor.
  • Cottrell is linked to cryptocurrency businesses and an offshore gambling website.
  • Farage plans legal action against the newspaper that reported the benefits and says he is the target of an "establishment hit job."
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WATCH:  Fourth of July fireworks lit up the skies

WATCH: Fourth of July fireworks lit up the skies

Summary

Americans across the country celebrated the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th with fireworks and various events. These celebrations included parades, concerts, and speeches, including a rally held by President Donald Trump.

Key Facts

  • The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence was celebrated on July 4, 2026.
  • Fireworks displays were held nationwide as part of the celebrations.
  • President Donald Trump held a rally to mark the Fourth of July.
  • Events included concerts, parades, and special tributes such as performances of patriotic songs.
  • Ships from around the world participated in a parade on the Hudson River.
  • The celebrations took place alongside record-breaking heat and severe weather warnings.
  • Other notable events included tributes to military families and cultural heritage celebrations.
  • The anniversary also brought discussions about America’s historical legacy and family histories of prominent figures.
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Where's our doctor, dentist, new school? The sprawling Glasgow suburb lacking basic amenities

Where's our doctor, dentist, new school? The sprawling Glasgow suburb lacking basic amenities

Summary

Robroyston, a suburb in Glasgow, has seen many new houses built in recent decades but lacks basic services like doctors, dentists, and schools. Residents are concerned about the shortage of facilities and poor transport options, especially for children who must travel far to attend school.

Key Facts

  • Robroyston was mostly farmland before housing developments began in the 1980s and increased rapidly after the 1990s.
  • About 2,000 homes are now planned or built in the area.
  • The community lacks enough basic services such as healthcare, sports facilities, and schools.
  • There is only one non-denominational secondary school nearby, Smithycroft, which is about three miles away.
  • Public transport options to Smithycroft are limited, with only one bus making many stops, and no safe cycle lanes.
  • Parents cannot always drive children to school, leading to long, unsafe walks estimated at 90 minutes.
  • The local council had a masterplan for housing and infrastructure but residents feel support services have not kept pace with population growth.
  • The issue highlights the challenges of expanding housing without enough community amenities.
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