The Actual News

Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Trump gets OpenAI to offer US 5% stake, far lower than Sanders’ target

Trump gets OpenAI to offer US 5% stake, far lower than Sanders’ target

Summary

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is in early talks with President Donald Trump’s administration about the U.S. government potentially getting a 5% ownership stake in OpenAI. Senator Bernie Sanders supports a larger public stake in AI firms and has proposed a 50% tax on AI company stock to create a public fund for Americans.

Key Facts

  • OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman wants the U.S. to have a 5% stake in OpenAI to share AI’s benefits with the public.
  • President Trump and his administration have discussed similar stake ideas with other AI companies like Google and Meta.
  • Google and Meta have not agreed to giving any stake to the public, and Meta hasn’t shared AI safety models with officials.
  • Many Americans are worried about AI and do not want AI data centers near them.
  • OpenAI proposed an AI wealth fund like the Alaska Permanent Fund that would pay dividends to all U.S. citizens.
  • Senator Bernie Sanders wants a much larger public stake and suggests a 50% tax on AI company stock to raise about $7 trillion.
  • Sanders also proposes a bipartisan Independent Commission for Democratic AI to give the public influence over AI companies.
  • Discussions involve Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick from the Trump administration.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Secret Service Unveils Major Uniform Change

Secret Service Unveils Major Uniform Change

Summary

The U.S. Secret Service has introduced a new single badge design that all officers will wear for the first time in the agency’s 161-year history. The change replaces two separate badges, uniting Special Agents and Uniformed Division officers under one emblem to reflect their shared mission.

Key Facts

  • The new badge consolidates the badges previously worn separately by Special Agents and Uniformed Division officers.
  • The badge features the “Service Star,” a symbol used by the agency since 1875.
  • Each point of the star stands for one of the agency’s five core values: Justice, Duty, Courage, Honesty, and Loyalty.
  • The design includes a circular shield, gold accents, and a blue ring representing the Secret Service’s law enforcement heritage.
  • This change aims to present a unified identity for the entire agency.
  • The Secret Service was founded 161 years ago and has redesigned its badge multiple times since the 19th century.
  • The new badge reflects the agency’s combined mission to protect national leaders and investigate financial crimes.
  • Secret Service Director Sean Curran described the change as more than just a new look.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Medics responded to report of ‘cardiac arrest’ at McConnell’s home on day he was hospitalized

Medics responded to report of ‘cardiac arrest’ at McConnell’s home on day he was hospitalized

Summary

Paramedics went to Senator Mitch McConnell’s home in Washington, D.C., in June after a report of a cardiac arrest. McConnell, who is 84 years old, was unconscious at the time and later hospitalized.

Key Facts

  • The emergency happened on June 14 at Senator McConnell’s home near the Senate Hart Building.
  • Paramedics were called because someone was unconscious and appeared to have a cardiac arrest.
  • Cardiac arrest means the heart suddenly stops beating effectively.
  • Senator McConnell is 84 years old.
  • McConnell was taken to the hospital after the incident.
  • The information comes from an audio recording of the emergency medical services dispatch call.
  • This event happened in Washington, D.C.
  • Senator McConnell is a Republican from Kentucky.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Fewer than half of Democrats proud to be US citizens: Survey

Fewer than half of Democrats proud to be US citizens: Survey

Summary

A recent poll shows that less than half of Democrats say they feel proud to be American citizens. The poll was released before the U.S. celebrated its 250th anniversary.

Key Facts

  • The poll was conducted by NPR, PBS News, and Marist.
  • Only 45% of Democrats said they feel “very proud” or “proud” to be American.
  • 55% of Democrats said they do not feel proud to be American citizens.
  • The poll looked at Americans’ feelings about citizenship.
  • The poll came out just before the U.S. celebrated 250 years since its founding.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Stephen A. Smith: Democratic socialism won’t ‘sell’ in general election

Stephen A. Smith: Democratic socialism won’t ‘sell’ in general election

Summary

Stephen A. Smith said that if candidates with democratic socialist views do well in Democratic primaries, it might hurt the party’s chances in the November general election. He shared this opinion during a discussion on CNN.

Key Facts

  • Stephen A. Smith is a sports and political commentator.
  • He spoke to CNN host Laura Coates on a Wednesday.
  • Smith warned that democratic socialist candidates winning primaries might hurt the Democratic Party.
  • He believes this trend could reduce the Democrats’ chances in the November election.
  • The concern relates to the party’s efforts to oppose President Donald Trump’s agenda.
  • The discussion focused on the political strategies leading up to the general election.
  • Smith was commenting specifically on elections in the United States.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Democrat Josh Turek leading by 4 points in Iowa Senate race polling

Democrat Josh Turek leading by 4 points in Iowa Senate race polling

Summary

Democrat Josh Turek is ahead in the race for an Iowa Senate seat, leading Republican Ashley Hinson by 4 points according to a new Fox News poll. The survey shows 50% of voters support Turek, while 46% back Hinson.

Key Facts

  • Josh Turek is the Democratic candidate for the Iowa Senate race.
  • Ashley Hinson is the Republican candidate and a current U.S. Representative from Iowa.
  • A recent Fox News poll surveyed 1,003 registered voters in Iowa.
  • The poll shows 50% support for Turek and 46% support for Hinson.
  • Josh Turek has been a member of the Iowa House of Representatives since 2023.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Khanna: Time for ‘old guard’ in Democratic establishment to step aside

Khanna: Time for ‘old guard’ in Democratic establishment to step aside

Summary

Progressive Democratic Representative Ro Khanna praised the recent primary win of Melat Kiros, a former attorney, who defeated longtime incumbent Representative Diana DeGette in Colorado. Khanna urged the older leadership in the Democratic Party to make room for new voices and new leaders.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Ro Khanna is a progressive Democrat from California.
  • Melat Kiros, a former attorney, won a Democratic primary in Colorado.
  • Kiros defeated Diana DeGette, who had served 15 terms in Congress.
  • Khanna described the primary win as a significant success for progressives.
  • Khanna called on the Democratic Party’s “old guard” to step aside.
  • The call for change highlights a desire for newer leaders in the party.
  • The message was shared on the social media platform X.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Bannon: Insurgent left candidates ‘very smart’ not to campaign on Trump

Bannon: Insurgent left candidates ‘very smart’ not to campaign on Trump

Summary

Steve Bannon, a former White House adviser, said that some left-wing Democratic candidates are smart not to focus their campaigns on opposing President Donald Trump. Instead, these candidates promote themselves as anti-establishment without making Trump the main target of their campaigns.

Key Facts

  • Steve Bannon is a former adviser to the White House.
  • He commented about insurgent left candidates in the Democratic Party.
  • These candidates avoid focusing their campaigns mainly on opposing President Trump.
  • They present themselves as anti-establishment, meaning they challenge the current political system.
  • Bannon made these remarks in an interview with Politico.
  • The interview was published on a Thursday.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Dads of Camp Mystic victims push for safety laws 1 year after floods

Dads of Camp Mystic victims push for safety laws 1 year after floods

Summary

One year after deadly floods at Camp Mystic in Texas killed 27 campers and counselors, the victims' fathers continue to push for better summer camp safety laws. Their efforts helped pass new safety rules in multiple states, and they have also started a foundation to prevent similar tragedies.

Key Facts

  • The floods on July 4, 2023, at Camp Mystic killed over 130 people, including 25 girls and two counselors.
  • The fathers of two victims, Chloe Childress and Molly DeWitt, are leading campaigns to improve camp safety.
  • Investigators found Camp Mystic had no storm preparation or evacuation plan during the floods.
  • Kerr County officials were criticized for poor emergency response and lack of coordination with camps.
  • Texas passed new camp safety laws requiring warning systems, emergency training, and bans on building cabins in flood zones.
  • The families have sued the camp owners for gross negligence, claiming profit was prioritized over safety.
  • The Safe Summers Foundation was created to raise awareness, fund safety improvements, and encourage parents to ask camps about safety.
  • Camp Mystic's owners said the flood was unforeseeable and blamed lack of adequate state-funded early warning systems.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Dangerous heatwave scorches eastern US ahead of Fourth of July weekend

Dangerous heatwave scorches eastern US ahead of Fourth of July weekend

Summary

A dangerous heatwave is spreading across the central and eastern United States, causing record high temperatures and humidity ahead of the Fourth of July holiday. Authorities have issued heat warnings and advised people to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, and seek air conditioning to stay safe.

Key Facts

  • Temperatures are forecast to reach between 95°F (35°C) and 105°F (40.5°C) with heat index values up to 115°F (46.1°C).
  • The heatwave will affect areas from the Midwest to the East Coast, lasting through the holiday weekend.
  • The National Weather Service calls this heatwave a major to extreme heat risk.
  • Several cities, including New York and Washington DC, have issued warnings and advised residents to take precautions.
  • Cooling vans with medical staff and supplies will be available in New York City to help vulnerable people.
  • Thunderstorms are expected from Friday through Sunday, which could bring strong winds, hail, and flash floods.
  • Philadelphia shortened its Fourth of July parade route due to the dangerous heat conditions.
  • Officials emphasize that prolonged extreme heat can be deadly and recommend staying informed and cautious.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Trump is avoiding the World Cup because it’s packed with good things he doesn’t like | Barney Ronay

Trump is avoiding the World Cup because it’s packed with good things he doesn’t like | Barney Ronay

Summary

President Donald Trump made several posts on Truth Social on June 28, including one about the World Cup, noting record attendance numbers. Despite his usual active presence on social media and public events, Trump has not attended any World Cup games so far, suggesting a deliberate decision to stay away.

Key Facts

  • On June 28, President Trump posted multiple messages on Truth Social, including one about the World Cup.
  • Trump highlighted that the World Cup has broken attendance records with 4.6 million spectators so far.
  • This attendance figure is influenced by the fact that there are more matches to watch in the US, Mexico, and Canada than in the previous World Cup in Qatar.
  • President Trump has not attended any World Cup games despite the event being in the United States and neighboring countries.
  • Trump’s social media messages on that day also covered topics like his ballroom, golf courses, and a legal case involving sexual harassment.
  • The article suggests Trump’s usual loud and frequent messaging style contrasts with his relative silence on the World Cup.
  • The piece reflects on the challenges of communication and leadership in a complex media environment with many competing voices.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

The Supreme Court tackled race, history and the law in fraught and reflective major rulings

The Supreme Court tackled race, history and the law in fraught and reflective major rulings

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court recently made major decisions on cases involving race, immigration, and discrimination. The court allowed the government to end special deportation protections for some immigrants and limited parts of a key voting rights law, sparking debate about the impact on racial minorities.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court ended temporary protected status (TPS) for Haitians and Syrians who fled violence and disasters.
  • TPS was initially revoked by President Trump’s administration last year.
  • Some lawyers argued the cancellation was rooted in racial bias because of President Trump’s past negative remarks about immigrants.
  • The court’s conservative majority said there was no proof these actions were racially motivated.
  • The liberal justices disagreed and pointed out that some of Trump’s statements included racial stereotypes.
  • The court also narrowed important protections under the Voting Rights Act, affecting how discrimination cases are handled.
  • Decisions highlight ongoing national debates over race, immigration, and fairness in law.
  • These rulings may have lasting effects on vulnerable communities facing discrimination.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Goal of higher voter turnout remains elusive in California as changes have extended ballot counting

Goal of higher voter turnout remains elusive in California as changes have extended ballot counting

Summary

California’s June 2 primary election had a slow ballot counting process due to changes made to make voting easier. Despite these efforts, voter turnout was 40.8%, which is slightly higher than recent primaries but still lower than past decades, with older white voters participating the most.

Key Facts

  • California’s ballot counting after the June 2 primary took a long time because of new voting rules.
  • Voter turnout was 40.8%, an increase from recent primaries but below levels from the 1970s.
  • Voting changes included sending mail-in ballots to all voters and allowing same-day voter registration.
  • Mail-in ballots can be counted if postmarked by Election Day and received up to seven days later.
  • Election officials verify signatures on mail ballots, which adds to the counting time.
  • Turnout remains lower among younger voters and people of color.
  • Older, white, wealthier homeowners tend to vote more consistently.
  • Experts say voting changes have not led to major increases in voter participation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

What’s the perfect American hot dog? Depends where you grew up

What’s the perfect American hot dog? Depends where you grew up

Summary

The hot dog is a popular American food often eaten at ballparks and barbecues, but its preparation varies widely across different U.S. regions. Cities like New York and Chicago are known for distinct hot dog styles with specific toppings and ways of cooking.

Key Facts

  • Hot dogs are popular at events like baseball games and Fourth of July barbecues.
  • New York City hot dogs are usually boiled and served with sauerkraut, spicy mustard, and a special onion sauce.
  • Chicago hot dogs are grilled and topped with mustard, neon relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, sport peppers, and celery salt, served in a poppy seed bun.
  • Chicago-style hot dogs do not include ketchup.
  • Nathan’s Famous hot dog stand in Coney Island, NYC, hosts a well-known hot dog eating contest every July 4th.
  • In Chicago, some hot dog joints, like The Wiener’s Circle, are known for grilling dogs until blackened and for staff who interact loudly with customers.
  • Other cities like Cincinnati have different hot dog customs, such as topping with chili without beans.
  • Hot dog preferences often reflect regional pride and personal upbringing.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Boebert: Democrats ‘taking out their own and wanting true socialism’

Boebert: Democrats ‘taking out their own and wanting true socialism’

Summary

Representative Lauren Boebert said that Democrats are hurting their own party by supporting democratic socialist candidates in primary elections. She claimed that Democrats want true socialism, which she said would lead to communism.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Lauren Boebert is a Republican from Colorado.
  • She criticized Democrats for backing democratic socialist candidates in primaries.
  • Boebert said Democrats are "taking out their own" in these races.
  • She described true socialism as something that would lead to communism.
  • These comments were made during an interview on NewsNation with Chris Cuomo.
  • The discussion referred to upcoming Congressional elections.
  • Boebert’s statements reflect concerns within the Republican party about the direction of the Democratic party.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

U.S. employers pulled back on hiring in June

U.S. employers pulled back on hiring in June

Summary

U.S. employers added only 57,000 jobs in June, much fewer than the previous month. The unemployment rate dropped slightly to 4.2%, partly because some unemployed people stopped looking for work and were no longer counted.

Key Facts

  • U.S. employers hired 57,000 new workers in June.
  • This number is less than half of May’s job growth.
  • The unemployment rate fell from 4.3% in May to 4.2% in June.
  • The drop in unemployment is partly due to people giving up job searches.
  • Inflation is at its highest in three years.
  • Consumer confidence remains low since the pandemic.
  • The job market has many workers keeping jobs but low hiring for unemployed people.
  • Recent strong hiring in spring did not continue into June.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Gen Z opens up about divisions and what they think the future of the U.S. holds

Gen Z opens up about divisions and what they think the future of the U.S. holds

Summary

Gen Z, people born between 1997 and 2012, shared their thoughts on common stereotypes about their generation. They also talked about political divisions and their views on the future of the United States.

Key Facts

  • Gen Z includes those born from 1997 to 2012.
  • This generation discussed stereotypes they face.
  • They expressed their opinions on political divides in the U.S.
  • Gen Z shared their hopes and concerns about the country’s future.
  • The discussions were part of CBS News’ "USA to Z" series.
  • The segment aired on the CBS Mornings program.
  • Viewers can watch the full segment on the CBS News app and website.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

List of America 250 Events Being Canceled, Replanned Over Major Heat Wave

List of America 250 Events Being Canceled, Replanned Over Major Heat Wave

Summary

A severe heat wave with temperatures over 100 degrees in the Northeast U.S. has led to many cancellations and changes of events celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Parades, fireworks, and other gatherings have been canceled, postponed, or moved indoors to protect public safety.

Key Facts

  • The heat wave is affecting the Northeast ahead of the Fourth of July holiday.
  • Over 250 events related to America’s 250th anniversary are canceled or rescheduled.
  • Cities from Philadelphia to New York have stopped or changed parades, fireworks, and concerts.
  • Norristown, Pennsylvania canceled its July 4 parade due to heat safety concerns.
  • Colorado canceled fireworks in at least eight cities to prevent wildfire risks.
  • Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Colorado have official event cancellations or postponements.
  • Officials prioritize the safety of families, event participants, and first responders.
  • President Donald Trump’s Great American State Fair in Washington D.C. is mentioned in relation to these heat-related event changes.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Louisville mayor reacts to blistering heat wave slamming the U.S.

Louisville mayor reacts to blistering heat wave slamming the U.S.

Summary

Louisville is facing a severe heat wave caused by a large heat dome affecting many parts of the United States. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg spoke about the city's efforts to protect people and prepare for the extreme heat.

Key Facts

  • A large heat dome is causing very high temperatures across much of the U.S.
  • Millions of people are affected by the heat wave.
  • Louisville's local government is taking actions to help residents cope with the heat.
  • Mayor Craig Greenberg discussed the city's precautions during a CBS News interview.
  • The heat wave presents health risks, especially to vulnerable groups like the elderly and children.
  • Cooling centers and public safety measures are part of the city's response plan.
  • The heat is expected to continue impacting the region for several days.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Minimum wage has stagnated for 17 years — it’s time for a pay bump

Minimum wage has stagnated for 17 years — it’s time for a pay bump

Summary

The article explains that workers face high costs for housing, healthcare, and childcare, but their wages have not increased enough to keep up. It argues that many people need higher pay to meet their everyday expenses.

Key Facts

  • Housing prices have gone up significantly.
  • Healthcare has become more expensive.
  • Childcare costs have increased.
  • Many workers’ paychecks remain low.
  • Minimum wage has not risen for 17 years.
  • Low wages make it hard for people to cover basic needs.
  • There is a call for raising the minimum wage to help workers afford living expenses.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account