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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

The Uplift: America 250

The Uplift: America 250

Summary

CBS News presented a show called "The Uplift: America 250" to celebrate the 4th of July and the 250th anniversary of the United States. The program shared inspiring stories about rare American artifacts, small towns that have stayed strong, and loyal citizens.

Key Facts

  • The show is titled "The Uplift: America 250."
  • It aired on CBS News.
  • The event marks America's 250th anniversary.
  • It celebrates the 4th of July holiday.
  • The program features stories about rare artifacts from U.S. history.
  • It highlights resilient small towns across America.
  • It honors loyal American patriots.
  • The show is available on the CBS News app and through online browsers.
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Trump launches America’s 250th birthday celebrations with partisan attack

Trump launches America’s 250th birthday celebrations with partisan attack

Summary

President Donald Trump began the weekend celebrating America's 250th birthday with a speech at Mount Rushmore that criticized progressive Democrats and called communism a threat to American values. He praised the founding fathers and emphasized returning to what he called America's true identity, while linking current political opponents to communism and saying they oppose American traditions.

Key Facts

  • President Trump spoke at Mount Rushmore in South Dakota to mark the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence.
  • He praised the four presidents carved into Mount Rushmore: Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln.
  • Trump described communism as the enemy of American freedom and compared it unfavorably to world wars and 9/11.
  • He linked progressive Democrats and recent immigrant arrivals to a resurgence of communism in the US.
  • Trump pledged to restore what he called America’s true identity and culture during his speech to a mostly white audience.
  • The event happened four months before the midterm elections, amid rising support for progressive and socialist candidates in some states.
  • Critics say Trump’s speech ignored the fact that some founding fathers were slaveholders and pushed a narrow view of American history.
  • The speech included political attacks instead of a unifying message typical for national celebrations.
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Fireworks, heat and politics: America celebrates its 250th birthday

Fireworks, heat and politics: America celebrates its 250th birthday

Summary

The United States is celebrating the 250th anniversary of its independence during a heat wave affecting many states. President Donald Trump is taking part in the events, including a speech on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and recently spoke at Mount Rushmore. Various cities across the country are hosting fireworks and concerts to mark the occasion.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. is marking 250 years since the Declaration of Independence.
  • President Donald Trump spoke at Mount Rushmore and plans to speak in Washington for the main event.
  • A large fireworks show is planned over the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
  • Heat waves caused the temporary closing of the Great American State Fair and the cancellation of Washington’s Independence Day parade.
  • Other major cities like Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles are holding their own celebrations, including fireworks and concerts.
  • Bristol, Rhode Island, claims to have the oldest Independence Day celebrations in the country, dating back to 1785.
  • The heat affected many East Coast events, while the Pacific Northwest experienced milder weather.
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As the US marks 250, does the special relationship still exist – or is the UK just irrelevant?

As the US marks 250, does the special relationship still exist – or is the UK just irrelevant?

Summary

The article discusses the 250th anniversary of the United States and its historical and current relationship with the United Kingdom. It highlights how President Donald Trump both praises the close ties between the two countries while also criticizing British leaders and emphasizing America’s victory in the Revolutionary War.

Key Facts

  • John Adams became the first US ambassador to Britain in 1785, meeting King George III shortly after US independence.
  • Adams expressed respect for the British despite the recent war where America gained independence.
  • President Donald Trump welcomed King Charles and Queen Camilla to the White House but did not bow to them.
  • Trump used the term “special relationship” to describe US-UK ties but also insulted UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
  • Trump described the UK as “dying” and suggested it is losing importance on the world stage.
  • To mark America’s 250th year, Trump promoted “freedom trucks” that tell the story of the American victory over Britain.
  • Historians note Trump’s focus on America’s win lacks broader historical context about British military losses.
  • The article shows continuing mixed feelings in the US about Britain, combining respect with criticism.
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Cornwall van dwellers face homelessness amid council crackdown

Cornwall van dwellers face homelessness amid council crackdown

Summary

Many people living in vans and caravans on farms in Cornwall face losing their homes due to new rules enforced by the local council. This crackdown is linked to housing shortages and high rents caused by many holiday rentals and second homes in the area.

Key Facts

  • Cornwall council is actively enforcing rules against caravans on farms, issuing many notices.
  • People live in vans and horseboxes because they cannot afford or find regular housing.
  • Tourism and short-term rentals have made it hard for locals to find long-term housing.
  • About 23,000 people are waiting for social homes in Cornwall.
  • Dawn, a 59-year-old woman, has lived in a horsebox on a farm for three years but now must leave.
  • Some farms, like Potters Farm, rented spaces to vulnerable homeless people but face legal action from the council.
  • The council says it enforces planning laws to protect the environment and public interests.
  • Farm owners claim the council knew about the homeless people living there but later demanded licenses.
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Burning flags, busty blondes and bison skulls: 48 photographs that capture America at 250

Burning flags, busty blondes and bison skulls: 48 photographs that capture America at 250

Summary

Photography arrived in the United States around 1839 and quickly became a way for everyday people to capture their lives. Over time, photos not only recorded American history but also shaped how the country saw itself, blending truth with stories that sometimes left out or changed important facts.

Key Facts

  • Photography came to the U.S. in 1839 using the daguerreotype process.
  • Early photos included ordinary people, such as gold rush miners, showing the wide reach of photography.
  • Photographers like Carleton Watkins and Dorothea Lange used images to tell stories about the American West, labor, poverty, and segregation.
  • Some famous photos, like The Scourged Back, showed the cruelty of slavery but were altered to create stronger abolitionist messages.
  • The 1869 transcontinental railroad photo celebrated unity but ignored the Chinese workers who helped build it.
  • Images of white men standing on bison skulls symbolized the exploitation of nature and Native people.
  • Photos of the Dust Bowl in the 1930s documented environmental disaster and poverty, famously including the Migrant Mother image.
  • Emmett Till’s open-casket photos in 1955 exposed racial violence to the public when many newspapers refused to publish them.
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Trump calls communism a ‘mortal threat’ at US 250th birthday event

Trump calls communism a ‘mortal threat’ at US 250th birthday event

Summary

President Donald Trump spoke before the July 4th celebrations at Mt. Rushmore in South Dakota. He said that communism is a serious danger to American freedom.

Key Facts

  • President Trump gave a speech at Mt. Rushmore ahead of the United States' 250th birthday.
  • He described communism as a "mortal threat" to liberty in the U.S.
  • The event took place before July 4th, America’s Independence Day.
  • The speech focused on political disagreement and challenges in the U.S.
  • Supporters attending the event responded with cheers during the speech.
  • The location, Mt. Rushmore, is a famous American monument with presidential faces carved into rock.
  • Trump’s comments highlight concerns about political ideologies that oppose American values.
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Watch: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce wed in NYC - here's how the day unfolded

Watch: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce wed in NYC - here's how the day unfolded

Summary

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce got married in New York City at Madison Square Garden. The wedding was a private event without bridesmaids or groomsmen, and close family members took special roles.

Key Facts

  • Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce held their wedding in Madison Square Garden, NYC.
  • Both wore clothes by the fashion brand Christian Dior.
  • They chose not to have bridesmaids or groomsmen.
  • Swift’s brother, Austin Swift, acted as her man of honor.
  • Kelce’s brother, Jason Kelce, a retired football player, was the best man.
  • Fans gathered outside the venue, singing Swift’s songs and wearing her concert gear.
  • A BBC reporter covered the entire event.
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Fireworks, flyovers and a 'really long' Trump speech as US celebrates 250th

Fireworks, flyovers and a 'really long' Trump speech as US celebrates 250th

Summary

President Donald Trump is hosting a large event on the National Mall in Washington DC to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. The event will include military flyovers, a record-setting fireworks display, and a long speech by the president, but it faces challenges such as high temperatures, possible storms, and political controversy.

Key Facts

  • The 250th anniversary event is called Salute to America 250 Celebrations & Fireworks.
  • Military aircraft will fly over Washington DC every hour from early afternoon until sunset.
  • President Trump will give a "really long speech" at around 9:45 pm local time.
  • The fireworks show will feature about 850,000 fireworks from 10 locations and is planned to last 40 minutes.
  • Organizers aim to break the Guinness World Record for the largest fireworks show.
  • The fireworks may cause very unhealthy air quality in downtown Washington DC.
  • Some music performers canceled due to the event’s political nature and the involvement of the White House-backed group Freedom250.
  • There are concerns about crowd size because of the heat, possible storms, and security checks.
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Chris Minns admits NSW Labor needs to ‘climb Everest’ to stay in power as protesters interrupt state conference

Chris Minns admits NSW Labor needs to ‘climb Everest’ to stay in power as protesters interrupt state conference

Summary

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns spoke at the NSW Labor conference about challenges facing his party, including opposition from One Nation and protests over Gaza. He announced plans for a $12 billion investment in training and manufacturing to create jobs, emphasized the importance of economic growth for working families, and addressed the disruption caused by protesters.

Key Facts

  • Premier Chris Minns said the Labor party must work very hard ("climb Everest") to stay in power amid rising threats from One Nation.
  • Two men displayed a Palestinian flag during the conference but were quickly removed by police.
  • Minns announced a $12 billion, 15-year plan to expand apprenticeships and restart train manufacturing in the Hunter region.
  • The project is expected to create 780 construction jobs and 550 manufacturing jobs.
  • Protesters supporting Palestine were kept away from the conference by police and security fencing.
  • Fifty-six Labor branches want controversial anti-protest laws reviewed or repealed, but these issues were scheduled late in the conference agenda.
  • The Labor ticket for the next election was finalized without a conference-wide vote, led by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey.
  • Minns criticized One Nation’s push for a single cultural identity and defended Australian Muslim families against negative political statements.
  • Polling shows Labor leading with 32% primary vote in NSW, but Minns warned against complacency ahead of elections.
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WATCH:  How Chicago kicks-off July 4th celebrations

WATCH: How Chicago kicks-off July 4th celebrations

Summary

Chicago is preparing to start its Fourth of July celebrations with events at Navy Pier. The city is hosting activities to mark America’s Independence Day on July 4th.

Key Facts

  • Chicago’s Navy Pier is a central location for July 4th festivities.
  • The celebrations begin on July 3rd and continue on July 4th.
  • Events include live music, fireworks, and family-friendly activities.
  • Navy Pier is a popular spot for gathering during holidays in Chicago.
  • The Fourth of July honors America’s independence from British rule.
  • Chicago joins other U.S. cities in hosting national holiday celebrations.
  • The article provides information about live streams and other holiday plans.
  • Safety and security are part of the preparations for the celebrations.
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WATCH:  How Sin City Kicks-Off July 4th Parties

WATCH: How Sin City Kicks-Off July 4th Parties

Summary

Las Vegas began its July 4th celebrations with parties and events. The coverage showed how the city marked the start of the holiday.

Key Facts

  • The article focuses on how Las Vegas started its Fourth of July festivities.
  • Cameron Mathison presented the segment showing the celebrations.
  • July 4th is a national holiday in the United States, celebrating independence.
  • The piece is part of broader coverage of July 4th events in different cities.
  • Other related news includes preparations for large celebrations across the country.
  • Las Vegas is known as "Sin City," famous for its entertainment and parties.
  • The holiday attracts many visitors and involves fireworks, music, and social events.
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Trump at Mount Rushmore warns of Communist ‘enemy’ in ‘optimistic’ speech celebrating America’s birthday

Trump at Mount Rushmore warns of Communist ‘enemy’ in ‘optimistic’ speech celebrating America’s birthday

Summary

President Donald Trump gave a speech at Mount Rushmore on Independence Day, July 4th, 2026. He spoke strongly against communism and highlighted American optimism while celebrating the country’s 250th birthday.

Key Facts

  • The speech took place in Keystone, South Dakota, near Mount Rushmore.
  • It was part of the 250th anniversary celebration of the United States.
  • President Trump criticized communism sharply during his speech.
  • He called communism an enemy and said such ideas should be rejected.
  • The speech included patriotic themes about America’s future and strength.
  • The event combined political messages with the holiday celebration.
  • President Trump aimed to warn Americans about ideological threats.
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WATCH:  Brandi Carlile performs 'America the Beautiful' at the Statue of Liberty

WATCH: Brandi Carlile performs 'America the Beautiful' at the Statue of Liberty

Summary

Brandi Carlile performed the song "America the Beautiful" at the Statue of Liberty during the "Disney Celebrates America" event. The event marked the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Key Facts

  • Brandi Carlile is a Grammy-winning musician.
  • She sang "America the Beautiful" at the Statue of Liberty.
  • The performance was part of a celebration called "Disney Celebrates America."
  • The event honored the 250th anniversary of the United States.
  • President Donald Trump gave remarks at Mount Rushmore for the same anniversary.
  • The event took place around the July 4th holiday in 2026.
  • Various celebrations and security preparations were happening across the country.
  • The celebration included live streams and events from multiple locations in the U.S.
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Influential presidential speeches

Influential presidential speeches

Summary

This article showcases important speeches given by U.S. presidents during the 20th and 21st centuries. It highlights moments when presidents spoke about key issues affecting the nation.

Key Facts

  • The article focuses on speeches from U.S. presidents over the last 100+ years.
  • These speeches are described as influential or impactful.
  • The collection includes presidents from both the 20th and 21st centuries.
  • The content is available through CBS News and its app.
  • The speeches cover a variety of important national topics.
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The schools starting late after 01:00 England game to 'reduce pressure' for parents

The schools starting late after 01:00 England game to 'reduce pressure' for parents

Summary

Some schools in England plan to start later on Monday after the England vs. Mexico World Cup match that kicks off at 1:00 AM. This change aims to reduce stress for parents and students who stay up late to watch the game.

Key Facts

  • The England vs. Mexico match starts at 1:00 AM BST and could end as late as 4:00 AM if it goes to penalties.
  • Schools in London, Salford, the Midlands, and County Durham will open around 10:00 AM instead of the usual time.
  • Hill Avenue Academy in Wolverhampton has delayed its start by 1.5 hours for late-night England matches.
  • Headteachers say later start times help reduce pressure and stress on families.
  • England manager Thomas Tuchel asked schools to be flexible and let children watch the game.
  • Some parents appreciate the late start and feel it helps their children enjoy the sport without missing school.
  • Other parents disagree and believe children should still attend school on time despite late games.
  • Annfield Plain Infant School in Co Durham will keep its attendance register open an hour later as part of the flexible approach.
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Nearly half of Americans don’t know what America 250 is celebrating: Poll

Nearly half of Americans don’t know what America 250 is celebrating: Poll

Summary

A recent survey found that nearly half of Americans do not know what the country’s 250th anniversary is celebrating. The poll showed that only about half of those asked could correctly say the holiday honors the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

Key Facts

  • The anniversary marks 250 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.
  • The survey was conducted by the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank.
  • Only 53 percent of Americans polled identified the day’s meaning correctly.
  • The poll was released shortly before the celebration day on Saturday.
  • The survey covered a wide range of Americans across the country.
  • This suggests some Americans are not fully aware of the historical significance of the holiday.
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America 250: David Muir climbs up to the Statue of Liberty's torch

America 250: David Muir climbs up to the Statue of Liberty's torch

Summary

David Muir, anchor of "World News Tonight," climbed to the torch of the Statue of Liberty as part of ABC News' special coverage celebrating America’s 250th birthday. The statue, a gift from France in 1886, welcomed millions of immigrants arriving through Ellis Island, and ABC News is marking the anniversary with 24 hours of programming.

Key Facts

  • David Muir climbed inside the Statue of Liberty up to its torch, which is over 300 feet above ground.
  • The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France in 1886 and welcomed over 12 million immigrants during the Ellis Island immigration years (1892–1954).
  • ABC News is broadcasting "Disney Celebrates America," a 24-hour event covering all 50 states to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States.
  • Around 40% of Americans can trace their family history back to immigrants who entered through Ellis Island.
  • The original torch was replaced in the 1980s due to damage; the old torch is now in the museum on Liberty Island.
  • David Muir spoke with Tony Soraci, who helped restore the statue in the 1980s and is the grandson of Italian immigrants.
  • Inside the statue, the copper sheets are very thin and held together by rivets.
  • French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi designed the statue so that immigrants arriving in New York Harbor would see Lady Liberty’s face first.
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Who is paying for America's 250th celebrations? It's complicated

Who is paying for America's 250th celebrations? It's complicated

Summary

The Trump administration is organizing some of the United States' 250th anniversary events using a mix of taxpayer money and corporate donations through a group called Freedom 250, which differs from the bipartisan America250 organization set up by Congress. Freedom 250 has received millions in government grants and donations from companies that have contracts with the government, raising concerns about ethics and transparency.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump’s administration is leading some 250th anniversary events through Freedom 250.
  • Freedom 250 received at least $68.3 million in taxpayer money via the Department of the Interior and the National Park Foundation.
  • Freedom 250 is a public-private group launched by the White House and is different from America250, the official bipartisan anniversary organization.
  • Freedom 250 has sought large corporate donations from companies like Palantir, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and United Health Group.
  • Corporate donors can pay from $500,000 up to over $10 million for benefits including VIP event access and speaking roles at major celebrations.
  • Many corporate donors have ongoing contracts or business with the U.S. government, leading to ethical questions.
  • Freedom 250 operates as an LLC within a nonprofit, allowing it to keep donor amounts secret.
  • A House committee report accused the Freedom 250 group of corruption and misuse of charity status to avoid rules set by Congress.
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Trump pardons former Abramoff partner, 9 people convicted of violating vehicle emissions controls

Trump pardons former Abramoff partner, 9 people convicted of violating vehicle emissions controls

Summary

President Donald Trump pardoned 11 people, including a former business partner of lobbyist Jack Abramoff and nine individuals involved in violating vehicle emissions laws. The pardons come as part of Trump’s broader use of executive power during his second term and follow a memo allowing Americans more freedom to fix their own vehicles.

Key Facts

  • President Trump pardoned 11 people on Friday.
  • Nine of the pardoned individuals were charged with bypassing vehicle emissions control systems.
  • The pardons followed a memo Trump signed allowing Americans to fix their vehicles without strict regulation.
  • One of the pardoned is Adam Kidan, a former business partner of Jack Abramoff, who served prison time for fraud and conspiracy.
  • Kidan now leads a staffing company and hosted a political fundraiser at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort.
  • Another person pardoned was ranch owner Jack Harvard, praised for letting the military and NATO use his land for training.
  • Trump announced some pardons on social media without naming who was pardoned.
  • The White House described the emissions-related pardons as relieving consumers from regulatory burdens.
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