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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Supreme Court won't hear Trump's appeal of E. Jean Carroll sexual abuse case

Supreme Court won't hear Trump's appeal of E. Jean Carroll sexual abuse case

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court refused to review a jury decision that found President Trump liable for sexually abusing and defaming writer E. Jean Carroll. The jury awarded Carroll $5 million for the abuse case and had earlier awarded her $83 million for defamation.

Key Facts

  • The jury found by a majority that President Trump sexually abused E. Jean Carroll during the mid-1990s.
  • President Trump did not attend the 2023 civil trial and did not present witnesses.
  • The jury also ruled that President Trump defamed Carroll and awarded her a separate $83 million.
  • President Trump has denied Carroll’s allegations since 2019 when she first published them.
  • President Trump appealed both the sexual abuse and defamation cases but was denied review by the Supreme Court.
  • The trial judge described Trump’s conduct as an "implicit digital rape," though the jury rejected Carroll’s rape claim.
  • Evidence included testimony from other women accusing Trump of similar conduct and a video of Trump bragging about sexual misconduct.
  • The Second Circuit appeals court upheld the jury’s decisions before the Supreme Court declined to hear the case.
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Supreme Court won’t hear Trump’s bid to overturn Carroll sexual abuse verdict

Supreme Court won’t hear Trump’s bid to overturn Carroll sexual abuse verdict

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court decided not to review a case involving President Donald Trump. This means the court will not change the earlier ruling that found Trump responsible for sexually abusing writer E. Jean Carroll and for defaming her. Trump must pay the $5 million damages awarded in the case.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court declined President Trump’s request to overturn a jury verdict.
  • The verdict found Trump liable for sexually abusing E. Jean Carroll in the mid-1990s.
  • The court also found Trump liable for defaming Carroll.
  • The ruling includes a $5 million award to Carroll.
  • This decision keeps the $5 million penalty in place.
  • The case relates to Trump’s personal legal troubles amid his 2024 presidential campaign.
  • The Supreme Court’s refusal means no further appeals on this verdict at the highest court level.
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Americans' pride in US history and democracy dropped steeply over past decade, poll finds

Americans' pride in US history and democracy dropped steeply over past decade, poll finds

Summary

A new poll shows that Americans feel less proud of their country’s history and democracy than they did ten years ago. The drop in pride is especially strong among Democrats, while Republicans remain more proud, particularly of the military.

Key Facts

  • Americans’ pride in US history and democracy has dropped significantly since 2017.
  • Pride in the country’s military has fallen by 19 percentage points since 2017.
  • The poll was conducted after the outbreak of a US-Israeli war on Iran.
  • Only 53% of US adults say they feel "extremely" or "very" proud to be American, the lowest since 2001.
  • Democrats show the largest decrease in pride, with only 14% “extremely” proud compared to 70% of Republicans.
  • Despite lower pride, most Americans still say being American is very important to their identity.
  • Republicans are much more likely to express pride in the US military than independents or Democrats.
  • This decline in pride covers a period including President Trump’s first term, the COVID-19 pandemic, rising inflation, and President Trump’s return to office.
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Trump seems to have met his judgment day courtesy of Pope Leo XIV

Trump seems to have met his judgment day courtesy of Pope Leo XIV

Summary

Pope Leo XIV has gained attention as a political figure by opposing President Donald Trump’s policies. He highlights Christian values like caring for the poor, refugees, and promoting peace, which may influence voters in the upcoming midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo XIV has become popular in political discussions.
  • He opposes policies supported by President Donald Trump.
  • The pope focuses on Christian values such as helping poor people and refugees.
  • He also emphasizes the importance of peace.
  • His positions are resonating with some voters.
  • This influence might affect the results of the midterm elections.
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Cassidy: Trump treats Congress as ‘merely an appendage’

Cassidy: Trump treats Congress as ‘merely an appendage’

Summary

Senator Bill Cassidy said in an interview that President Donald Trump sometimes acts like Congress is just a small part that follows him. Cassidy emphasized that the Senate is a separate and independent branch of government from the president.

Key Facts

  • Senator Bill Cassidy recently lost a primary election for his Senate seat.
  • Cassidy spoke in an interview with CBS News’s Margaret Brennan on the show "Face the Nation."
  • Cassidy said President Trump sometimes treats Congress as if it is just an extension of his authority.
  • He reminded that the Senate is a distinct and independent part of the government.
  • The comments highlight ongoing tensions about the roles and respect between the branches of government.
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Massie gets into confrontation with Fox digital reporter

Massie gets into confrontation with Fox digital reporter

Summary

Rep. Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky, asked a Fox News digital reporter if he liked gay porn in a video Massie shared online. The incident happened over the weekend and shows Massie confronting the reporter.

Key Facts

  • Thomas Massie is a U.S. Congressman from Kentucky and a Republican.
  • Massie posted a video online showing him confronting a Fox News digital reporter.
  • In the video, Massie asks the reporter if he likes gay porn.
  • The exchange took place recently, over the weekend.
  • The interaction was shared publicly by Massie on social media.
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Watch: Biden calls Trump a 'loser' at fundraising event

Watch: Biden calls Trump a 'loser' at fundraising event

Summary

At a recent fundraising event, President Joe Biden criticized President Donald Trump by calling him a "loser" because of his focus on personal projects in Washington, DC. Biden specifically mentioned Trump’s plans to build a ballroom and his approach to renovating the Reflecting Pool.

Key Facts

  • President Biden spoke at a Democratic Party fundraising event in Maryland.
  • Biden called President Trump a "loser" during his speech.
  • The criticism was about Trump’s “vanity projects” in Washington, DC.
  • Biden mentioned Trump’s plan to build a ballroom.
  • Biden also criticized Trump’s handling of the Reflecting Pool renovation.
  • The event occurred over the past weekend.
  • The remarks were part of a broader attack on Trump’s actions as president.
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UC Berkeley establishing the Nancy Pelosi Institute to address democracy's challenges

UC Berkeley establishing the Nancy Pelosi Institute to address democracy's challenges

Summary

UC Berkeley and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi are creating a new nonpartisan academic institute called the Nancy Pelosi Institute for Representative Democracy. The institute will focus on strengthening democracy through research, education, and public engagement, starting in January 2027.

Key Facts

  • The institute is a partnership between UC Berkeley and Nancy Pelosi, who served nearly 40 years in Congress.
  • It will focus on four main areas: strengthening democratic institutions, addressing societal and economic challenges, promoting human and civil rights, and supporting diverse political leadership.
  • Pelosi will co-teach a course on Congress as part of the institute’s academic work.
  • The institute has already raised over $35 million from donors.
  • Research topics will include climate change, wealth inequality, and ways to reduce voter polarization.
  • UC Berkeley Chancellor Rich Lyons said the goal is not just to study democracy but to help strengthen it.
  • The institute will include an exhibit about Pelosi’s political career, including her time as the first female House Speaker.
  • Pelosi remains active in politics and plans to help train future leaders after she retires from Congress.
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Pelosi to teach at new UC Berkeley democracy institute

Pelosi to teach at new UC Berkeley democracy institute

Summary

Nancy Pelosi, who retired after 39 years in Congress, will teach at a new democracy institute named after her at UC Berkeley. She will co-teach a class about Congress and has helped raise $35 million to support the institute.

Key Facts

  • Nancy Pelosi served 39 years in Congress before retiring.
  • UC Berkeley created a new democracy institute named in Pelosi’s honor.
  • Pelosi will co-teach a course focused on how Congress works.
  • She helped raise $35 million to support the new institute.
  • The institute is nonpartisan, meaning it is not aligned with any political party.
  • The institute aims to promote understanding of democratic government.
  • Pelosi’s involvement brings her experience as a former House Speaker to the project.
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Lions CB Arnold's bond set at $1M with conditions

Lions CB Arnold's bond set at $1M with conditions

Summary

A judge decided there is enough reason to charge Detroit Lions player Terrion Arnold with armed robbery and kidnapping. However, the judge allowed Arnold to be released on bond set at $1 million with certain conditions.

Key Facts

  • Terrion Arnold is a cornerback for the Detroit Lions football team.
  • He faces charges of armed robbery and kidnapping.
  • A judge found probable cause to move forward with these charges.
  • Prosecutors asked for Arnold to be held without bond, but the judge denied this request.
  • Arnold’s bond was set at $1 million.
  • There are special conditions attached to his release on bond.
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Democratic socialists are on the rise — are the pitchforks finally coming out?

Democratic socialists are on the rise — are the pitchforks finally coming out?

Summary

Some voters may support democratic socialist candidates in upcoming elections because they feel frustrated with problems in the government and the economy. This rise in support could lead to significant changes in political power.

Key Facts

  • Democratic socialists are gaining more attention and support among voters.
  • Many people feel unhappy with current government performance.
  • Economic difficulties also contribute to voter dissatisfaction.
  • Upcoming elections on November 3 are seen as an opportunity for change.
  • Democratic socialism focuses on social ownership and expanded public services.
  • Voter interest in these ideas has been growing recently.
  • The article discusses whether this support will lead to noticeable political shifts.
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Platner, Collins neck and neck in Maine Senate race: Poll

Platner, Collins neck and neck in Maine Senate race: Poll

Summary

A new poll shows Democrat Graham Platner and Republican Senator Susan Collins are very close in the Maine Senate race. Platner has 49% support while Collins has 47%, with 3% undecided or not responding.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a Democrat and oyster farmer.
  • Susan Collins is the Republican Senator from Maine.
  • A poll by The New York Times, Portland Press Herald, and Siena was released on Monday.
  • The poll shows Platner leading Collins by 2 percentage points.
  • 3% of those surveyed either refused to answer or were unsure.
  • The race is very competitive with no clear winner yet.
  • The poll reflects voter opinions at this time before the election.
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Alex Murdaugh to return to court for first time since murder convictions overturned

Alex Murdaugh to return to court for first time since murder convictions overturned

Summary

Alex Murdaugh will return to a South Carolina court for the first time since the state Supreme Court overturned his murder convictions. The convictions were related to the deaths of his son and wife.

Key Facts

  • Alex Murdaugh was convicted for killing his son and wife.
  • The South Carolina Supreme Court overturned these murder convictions.
  • Murdaugh is scheduled to appear in court again on Monday.
  • This court appearance is his first since the convictions were overturned.
  • The case has received significant media attention in the United States.
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Hegseth roils Congress with moves on Army; House seeks to end stalemate: Join the live discussion

Hegseth roils Congress with moves on Army; House seeks to end stalemate: Join the live discussion

Summary

Congress is upset with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for removing a senior Army leader. At the same time, the House of Representatives is trying to resolve a disagreement over the SAVE America Act.

Key Facts

  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed a top Army commander.
  • This action has caused strong reactions in Congress, including from some Republicans.
  • There is a standoff in the House of Representatives related to the SAVE America Act.
  • Lawmakers are working to find a way to end this disagreement.
  • The Hill is hosting a live discussion with editors and reporters covering Congress and defense topics.
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'Citizen Vigilante' Tops US Amazon Chart–Why Is Film Controversial?

'Citizen Vigilante' Tops US Amazon Chart–Why Is Film Controversial?

Summary

The film *Citizen Vigilante*, starring Armie Hammer, has become the top movie purchase on Amazon in the U.S. The movie shows Hammer as a man who punishes criminals, but it has sparked controversy for its violent scenes and strong anti-immigration message.

Key Facts

  • *Citizen Vigilante* is a German-made action thriller directed by Uwe Boll.
  • Armie Hammer plays an American businessman who turns into a vigilante in Europe.
  • The movie shows violent actions, including a scene where Hammer’s character kills members of a migrant family.
  • The film was banned in Germany because it was refused a rating.
  • It is controversial due to violence and anti-immigration themes.
  • This film marks Armie Hammer’s return to major films after sexual abuse allegations in 2021, which he denied and was never charged for.
  • The movie topped the U.S. Amazon chart for movie purchases.
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Major Supreme Court cases that will test Trump's power yet to be decided

Major Supreme Court cases that will test Trump's power yet to be decided

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court is approaching the end of its term but has not yet decided several important cases. Some of these cases involve issues like birthright citizenship and could affect President Donald Trump's powers.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court is close to finishing its current term.
  • Several major cases remain undecided.
  • One key case concerns birthright citizenship, which means automatically granting citizenship to people born in the U.S.
  • These cases could impact the authority of President Donald Trump.
  • CBS News correspondent Jan Crawford reported on the situation.
  • The decisions may influence future government policies and presidential powers.
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Fetterman: ‘Significant part’ of Democratic Party ‘getting taken over’ by ‘extreme views’

Fetterman: ‘Significant part’ of Democratic Party ‘getting taken over’ by ‘extreme views’

Summary

Senator John Fetterman from Pennsylvania said that some parts of the Democratic Party are being influenced by more extreme political views. He made this comment after candidates connected to democratic socialism won some recent primary elections.

Key Facts

  • Senator John Fetterman represents Pennsylvania.
  • He commented on the direction of the Democratic Party.
  • Fetterman described part of the party as being taken over by "extreme views."
  • This change comes after some progressive candidates with democratic socialist ties won primary races.
  • The conversation happened during an interview on Fox News’s “Saturday in America.”
  • Democratic socialism is a political ideology that supports political democracy alongside social ownership of resources.
  • Fetterman’s remarks highlight a discussion about the party’s shifting views ahead of future elections.
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Live updates: Supreme Court due to issue major opinions; Trump says Iran wants to meet

Live updates: Supreme Court due to issue major opinions; Trump says Iran wants to meet

Summary

The Supreme Court is expected to announce important rulings and final decisions on Monday morning. Recently, the court made decisions favorable to the Trump administration on immigration issues. President Donald Trump also said on Truth Social that Iran wants to meet.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court will release orders and major opinions on Monday morning.
  • These announcements come shortly after 10 a.m. local time.
  • The court recently ruled in favor of the Trump administration on immigration cases.
  • President Donald Trump spoke on Truth Social about Iran seeking a meeting.
  • The rulings could have significant effects on U.S. policies and laws.
  • The updates are being followed closely by media and the public.
  • The Supreme Court’s final opinions often impact government actions and society.
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The progressive left is ascendant, but it may not be good for Democrats

The progressive left is ascendant, but it may not be good for Democrats

Summary

The article discusses concerns among Democratic leaders about the growing influence of progressive ideas within the party. It suggests that the rise of progressive policies might create challenges for Democratic success.

Key Facts

  • Progressive ideas are becoming more popular within the Democratic Party.
  • Some Democratic leaders, including Jeffries, are concerned about this trend.
  • The article highlights potential difficulties for Democrats if progressive policies dominate.
  • It focuses on internal party dynamics rather than external political factors.
  • The concerns relate to the party’s chances in upcoming elections.
  • Progressive policies typically involve more left-leaning or reform-driven positions.
  • The analysis is about the Democratic Party’s direction and strategy.
  • No specific policies or events are detailed in the article excerpt provided.
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Disney Celebrates America: What to expect on July 3, July 4 as ABC marks America 250

Disney Celebrates America: What to expect on July 3, July 4 as ABC marks America 250

Summary

ABC and Disney are presenting a special 24-hour program called "Disney Celebrates America" on July 3 and 4 to mark America’s 250th anniversary. The broadcast will show celebrations, performances, and historic moments from all 50 states, including special events like fireworks, concerts, and a parade.

Key Facts

  • The program starts at 10 p.m. ET on July 3 and continues through July 4.
  • ABC News anchor David Muir will lead the coverage and take viewers inside the Statue of Liberty.
  • The first parade of the nation in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, will be featured at midnight on July 4.
  • "Good Morning America" will have a special three-hour show with anchors sharing their American stories.
  • The broadcast will highlight the 7 Wonders of America and key historical and cultural moments.
  • ESPN will show the finals of Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island.
  • On July 4 at 8 p.m. ET, ABC will air the "Star-Spangled Bash" concert from Nashville with artists like Reba McEntire and Nick Jonas.
  • The event includes one of the largest fireworks and drone shows in the U.S., accompanied by the Nashville Symphony.
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