A federal appeals court is reviewing whether the rules for prescribing mifepristone, a key abortion pill, should be stricter. This case is part of ongoing efforts in some states to limit access to abortion pills after the Supreme Court allowed states to decide abortion laws.
Key Facts
Mifepristone and misoprostol are the two drugs used in most U.S. abortions.
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is hearing a case about restricting the prescription of mifepristone.
The case was brought by Louisiana officials concerned about the use of abortion pills obtained online or from other states.
The FDA is reviewing the current prescribing rules and may change them.
Other states, including Florida, Texas, Idaho, Kansas, and Missouri, are also challenging the FDA’s rules.
The Supreme Court previously blocked attempts to limit mifepristone availability due to legal standing issues of challengers.
Federal judges in Hawaii and Virginia have ruled that the FDA’s current restrictions are too strict.
About 60% of abortions in the U.S. are now done using abortion pills.
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Latino voters in key Texas districts now favor Democratic candidates over Republicans by a significant margin, according to a recent poll. Despite President Donald Trump improving his Latino support in 2024, economic concerns and immigration enforcement are causing many Latino voters to lean toward Democrats for the 2026 congressional elections.
Key Facts
A Hart Research/TelevisaUnivision poll shows Latino voters in three Texas House districts support Democrats 56% to 36%.
In the same districts, the 2024 presidential vote was evenly split between President Trump and then-Vice President Kamala Harris (44% each).
Across 17 battleground districts with many Latino voters, Democrats lead by 58% to 35% on a generic 2026 congressional ballot.
Economic issues are a major concern; 65% disapprove of President Trump’s handling of prices and living costs.
62% of Latino voters disapprove of the current administration’s immigration enforcement and deportations.
62% trust Democrats more than Republicans (36%) to reduce prices.
Latino voter support in other states like California and Florida is also shifting toward Democrats.
The poll sampled 1,500 Latino registered voters between August 6 and 17, with 300 from Texas districts.
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The U.S. Department of Labor has suspended Cognizant’s ability to file new employment-based green card applications while investigating alleged fraud related to the PERM and H-1B visa programs. The investigation involves the Labor Department’s Office of Inspector General and the White House Fraud Task Force, but no criminal charges have been announced.
Key Facts
Cognizant’s PERM filings, which start the green card process for foreign workers, have been suspended.
The investigation also covers alleged fraud in both the PERM and H-1B visa programs.
The H-1B visa allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers with specialized skills, often in tech jobs.
The suspension does not cancel existing approved green cards or H-1B visas for Cognizant employees.
Cognizant had 3,510 approved H-1B visa petitions as of mid-2026.
Cloudera, another tech company, also had its H-1B visa processing suspended due to the investigation.
The investigation is led by the Labor Department’s Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito and involves the White House Fraud Task Force.
Cognizant is a large U.S.-based IT company with a significant number of employees in India.
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A jury in the trial of Lindsay Clancy, accused of killing her three children, ended in a mistrial because one juror did not agree with acquitting her despite having reasonable doubt. Clancy’s defense said she was not guilty due to insanity caused by postpartum psychosis, while prosecutors argued she acted deliberately.
Key Facts
Lindsay Clancy was on trial for killing her three young children in 2023.
She admitted to the killings but pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.
Her defense claimed she had postpartum psychosis at the time of the crime.
Prosecutors argued she knew what she was doing and acted on purpose.
The jury could not reach a unanimous decision, leading to a mistrial.
One male juror held out against acquittal, despite admitting reasonable doubt.
Other jurors described the holdout juror as unwilling to listen or discuss.
The jury’s names are sealed for at least 14 days and the holdout juror hasn’t revealed his identity.
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Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee is facing a tough primary challenge from Helena Foulkes, who currently leads in polls. McKee's low approval ratings are linked to issues like the costly and delayed Washington Bridge rebuild, while Foulkes campaigns on housing and healthcare affordability.
Key Facts
Rhode Island voters will decide between Governor Daniel McKee and Helena Foulkes in the Democratic primary.
Foulkes leads by 15 points in the latest Emerson College poll, with 25% of voters still undecided.
McKee became governor in 2021 after Gina Raimondo left for a federal job and won reelection in 2022.
The Washington Bridge closure and expensive rebuild project have hurt McKee's popularity.
Foulkes has never held public office but has political family ties and is endorsed by Nancy Pelosi.
Her campaign focuses on housing, healthcare, and a proposed Millionaire’s Tax to fund new homes.
Political experts say the election is mostly a vote on McKee’s performance, not just Foulkes’ policies.
The general election is expected to remain solidly Democratic, with Republicans competing for their nomination.
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Republicans are holding a rare two-day "midterm convention" in Texas to rally support for their party ahead of the November elections, focusing on President Donald Trump despite his low approval ratings. Some Republican lawmakers are avoiding the event due to concerns about their association with Trump and the cost of attendance, while Democrats plan to counter the Republicans’ message.
Key Facts
The Republican National Committee is organizing a “midterm convention” in Texas to try to keep control of the House of Representatives.
President Trump will be featured prominently at the event, appearing on both nights.
Trump’s approval rating is about 38%, considered low by many.
Some Republican members, especially those in close races, have decided not to attend to avoid being linked to Trump.
Democrats plan to have a presence in Dallas to respond to Republican claims.
Republicans are emphasizing issues like lowering costs, border security, community safety, and support for American workers.
Attendance is reported to be low, with about 100 lawmakers and candidates expected.
House Republicans reportedly were asked to donate at least $25,000 to get a ticket to the convention.
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A Homeland Security special agent in Alabama has been charged with child rape and other sexual crimes. The agent, Kent Blacklidge, turned himself in and is now on bond while the case proceeds.
Key Facts
Kent Blacklidge is a 43-year-old special agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
He faces charges including first- and second-degree rape, sodomy, and sexual abuse involving an underage girl.
The allegations are connected to a complaint made on January 11.
Blacklidge was placed on administrative leave as soon as the investigation began.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said Blacklidge worked on cases protecting children but is now charged with crimes against a child.
Blacklidge had also provided training to public school teachers on recognizing online predators.
He was released from jail on bond set at over $350,000 with conditions like electronic monitoring and no contact with minors.
The local district attorney’s office stepped aside because Blacklidge is a witness in other cases, so the attorney general’s office is handling the charges.
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President Donald Trump has increased tensions in the trade conflict with Canada. This situation creates challenges for Republican Senate candidates, who must defend the government's economic actions while also responding to Trump's strong stance against important Canadian imports and businesses.
Key Facts
President Trump has escalated the trade dispute with Canada.
This escalation affects Republican Senate candidates’ political strategies.
Senate Republicans must balance supporting the administration’s economic record with addressing Trump’s criticism of Canadian imports.
Trump targets key Canadian companies and products in the trade conflict.
The trade dispute is causing difficulties for GOP candidates during their campaigns.
Canada is an important trading partner for the United States.
The issue involves economic and political challenges for the Republican party.
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The family of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez wants the death penalty if singer D4vd (David Anthony Burke) is found guilty of murdering their daughter. Burke has pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the trial is set to begin next year in California.
Key Facts
Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s dismembered body was found in the trunk of a Tesla linked to D4vd’s address in September 2025.
D4vd is charged with murder but denies the accusations.
California currently has a temporary ban on the death penalty, but the victim’s family supports it if Burke is convicted.
Hernandez’s parents filed a civil lawsuit against Burke for wrongful death, false imprisonment, and childhood sexual assault.
The lawsuit claims Burke had a controlling relationship with Hernandez, who was a minor when they met.
The family says Burke killed Celeste after she threatened to expose their relationship.
The lawsuit names Burke’s companies, managers, mother, and a security guard as enabling him to isolate Celeste.
Burke has parted ways with his celebrity attorney and is now represented by a public defender.
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White House officials and Republican leaders say they no longer try to persuade President Donald Trump on decisions because they feel it is pointless. Although many Republicans doubt his choices now, they continue to follow his directions and expect him to remain a major political figure after his current term ends.
Key Facts
Top White House staff and Republicans have stopped trying to influence President Trump’s decisions.
For years, Republicans mostly agreed with Trump’s ideas, but now many question his judgment.
Despite doubts, they continue to support and carry out his wishes, including unusual actions and campaign plans.
Officials say Trump does not act on every impulse, but examples of restraint are not shared.
Republicans worry about losing control of the House and Senate in upcoming elections.
After the midterms, attention will shift to the 2028 presidential race and new Democratic leaders in Congress.
A close adviser insists Trump still holds strong influence and will not fade from politics after his term.
Trump insiders believe they will continue to align with him even after he leaves office.
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President Donald Trump presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to the family of Welles Crowther, known as "The Man in the Red Bandana," in honor of his heroism on September 11. Crowther was recognized for his bravery during the 9/11 attacks.
Key Facts
Welles Crowther is known as "The Man in the Red Bandana" for his actions on 9/11.
President Donald Trump gave Crowther’s family the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The award ceremony took place on September 9, 2026.
Crowther’s bravery is linked to the events of the September 11 attacks.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest honor in the United States for civilian contributions.
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President Donald Trump announced bans on some Canadian alcohol, dairy products, and motorcycles entering the United States, starting September 29, 2026. He also expanded 50% tariffs on more Canadian goods while removing some items from the tariff list and directed agencies to ban Canadian products from U.S. government purchasing unless Canada restores trade fairness.
Key Facts
The bans include sparkling grape wine, malt beer, Irish and Scotch whiskies, tequila in containers under four liters, certain dairy products like whey protein, and motorcycles.
Additional goods such as golf carts, cotton mattresses, bamboo furniture, and certain aluminum and cheese products are now subject to 50% tariffs.
Some Canadian products like non-white cement, facial tissue, bed sheets, fishing rods, pure sugars, and road salt were removed from the tariff list.
The bans and tariff changes take effect starting September 29, 2026.
President Trump ordered the U.S. General Services Administration and Trade Representative to stop buying Canadian products for government contracts unless Canada ends its retaliatory tariffs.
The U.S. plans to impose 50% tariffs on Canadian autos starting January 1, 2027, but talks for a trade agreement remain possible.
A senior White House official said the goal is to keep trade fair and protect American industries.
The administration is making exceptions for certain natural resources not available in the U.S., such as Canadian rock salt.
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A large sinkhole appeared in front of a house in Malibu, California, which actor Nicolas Cage bought in 2024. The driveway collapsed, causing local authorities to evacuate nearby homes and open a temporary shelter for residents.
Key Facts
A massive sinkhole formed outside a Malibu home believed to belong to Nicolas Cage.
Nicolas Cage purchased the house in 2024.
The sinkhole caused the beachfront driveway to collapse on Tuesday morning.
The City of Malibu ordered the evacuation of homes on the street.
A temporary shelter was set up to help people displaced by the evacuation.
Local authorities are managing the situation to ensure safety.
The incident was reported recently by the New York Times.
Malibu is located in California, within the United States.
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Oil prices rose above $100 a barrel due to attacks in the Middle East, raising concerns about fuel costs for American voters ahead of the November midterm elections. President Donald Trump faces pressure as rising gas prices affect the cost of living, a key issue for voters, while his efforts to lower prices through new oil agreements are not expected to impact the market before the elections.
Key Facts
Brent crude oil prices climbed over $100 a barrel after attacks by Houthi militants on Saudi Arabia.
Rising oil prices lead to higher gasoline costs, with the national average hitting $4.22 per gallon recently, up from $3.19 a year ago.
Higher fuel prices increase living expenses, which is the most important issue for 47% of registered voters in the upcoming midterms.
71% of adults disapprove of President Trump’s handling of the cost of living.
Fuel price increases usually affect consumers within two to four weeks.
Diesel prices hit a record average of $5.94 per gallon, impacting businesses’ transportation costs.
Inflation reports may not fully reflect recent price rises because they lag behind current gas pump costs.
The White House expects new oil from Venezuela to begin lowering prices, but significant effects may not occur before the midterms on November 3.
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New data shows that Medicare drug spending is increasing faster than expected, mainly due to higher use of expensive drugs and patients reaching their cost limits. This growing cost could strain Medicare’s budget and may lead to higher expenses for seniors or cuts in benefits in the future.
Key Facts
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) lowered out-of-pocket costs for seniors on outpatient prescription drugs, shifting costs to taxpayers, insurers, and drug makers.
In 2025, over 20% of Medicare Part D enrollees hit the $2,000 patient cost cap, moving extra costs to the government and insurers.
Spending on GLP-1 weight-loss drugs grew from $300 million in 2024 to $2 billion last year, contributing to cost increases.
Cancer and diabetes drugs also showed significant spending growth.
Medicare drug spending is expected to grow faster than the overall economy and could make up 44% of the federal deficit from drugs, doctor visits, and outpatient services over the next decade.
Some cost-control tools are limited, causing concerns about long-term financial sustainability.
Several cost-limiting programs and subsidies are set to expire soon, which may raise costs for seniors.
Medicare drug prices negotiations and use of cheaper generic drugs are helping but are not enough to fully offset spending growth.
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President Donald Trump and the Republican Party are hosting their first midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The event aims to support Republican candidates and highlight the administration's agenda, though some key GOP candidates plan to skip the convention.
Key Facts
The GOP midterm convention will last two nights, with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance as keynote speakers.
The event will focus on topics like immigration, border security, Trump’s tax policies, and lowering drug prices.
This is the Republican Party’s first-ever midterm convention; Democrats last held one in the 1970s.
Several members of President Trump’s Cabinet and GOP congressional leaders will speak at the convention.
Some important Republican candidates in close races, such as Ashley Hinson and Dan Sullivan, are not scheduled to speak and may skip the event.
The convention is held 55 days before the midterm elections, which will influence control of the House and Senate.
President Trump’s approval ratings are low amid ongoing challenges like the war with Iran and economic concerns.
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A private donor event in Dallas brought together top Republican leaders and big donors ahead of the party’s midterm convention. The donor group Rockbridge, linked to Vice President Vance, is becoming a major force in conservative fundraising as Republicans prepare for upcoming elections.
Key Facts
The event was held at The Rustic bar in Dallas and attended by 200 to 250 people, including GOP leaders, Cabinet members, and major donors.
Rockbridge is a donor network founded in 2019 by Vice President Vance and investor Chris Buskirk.
Attendees included Ray Washburne, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., HUD Secretary Scott Turner, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Senator Eric Schmitt, and former Trump Chief of Staff Reince Priebus.
The gathering was a welcome reception, not a fundraiser, but started a week of large Republican donor events in Dallas.
President Donald Trump will host a Republican National Committee fundraiser with high-priced attendance, including a $250,000 roundtable ticket and $88,600 for a photo.
Rockbridge is connected to several Silicon Valley investors like Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, David Sacks, and Peter Thiel.
A super PAC linked to Rockbridge, Turnout for America, plans to spend $50 million to increase GOP voter turnout in November.
The Republican midterm convention aims to support Trump’s record and criticize Democrats, despite some GOP candidates distancing themselves from Trump.
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A new poll finds that many Americans trust the federal government less than before. People are especially doubtful about government information on elections, foreign affairs, and the environment. Trust has dropped since 2024 and is now lower than at the end of President Donald Trump’s first term.
Key Facts
Most Americans have little or no trust in government information about elections, foreign affairs, and the environment.
Only 34% of adults trust government certification of election results, down from 40% in 2024.
Mistrust in federal information is higher now than at the end of President Trump’s first term.
The poll was conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center and USA Facts.
Trust in government information has become more divided along political party lines since Trump’s first term.
About 60% of U.S. adults distrust federal information on several major issues, including abortion and immigration.
Mistrust has risen since 2019 in almost every topic surveyed, such as education, which saw trust drop from 63% to 47%.
Some people blame changes in government messaging and political actions for increasing skepticism.
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Elon Musk’s super PAC, America PAC, is running many ads against Democratic Senate candidates that focus on transgender issues. The PAC wants to encourage Republican voters to turn out for the midterm elections by highlighting topics like transgender athletes and gender-transition care.
Key Facts
America PAC, supported by Elon Musk, is spending heavily on midterm election ads.
The ads target Democratic Senate candidates in Ohio, Iowa, Texas, and Alaska.
These ads focus on transgender issues, such as athletes and medical care for transgender people.
This focus on transgender topics is unusual for Republican Senate ads this election cycle.
America PAC plans to spend over $100 million in the midterms.
Republicans face challenges from voter concerns about the economy and foreign policy.
Musk has criticized transgender policies and has a transgender daughter.
The PAC aims to use transgender issues to motivate Republican voters to go to the polls.
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Since President Trump returned to office, many immigrant families have been affected by immigration enforcement actions that separate children from their parents. This separation and other related policies have caused emotional and health problems for millions of children, including many who are U.S. citizens.
Key Facts
About 205,000 children had at least one parent detained by immigration authorities through April 2025, and this number has grown.
Children separated from their parents often face psychological harm and unstable living conditions.
Some children have been left to care for themselves after their parents were arrested.
Two children in the South died by suicide in early 2025 after bullying related to their family's immigration status.
Many immigrant families lose access to medical care, food, tax credits, and other supports due to government restrictions.
Fear of immigration enforcement causes families to avoid schools, doctors, and social programs.
Around 25% of U.S.-born children have at least one immigrant parent, with about 4.6 million having a parent without legal status.
President Trump has prioritized immigration crackdowns, including attempts to limit birthright citizenship, which was blocked by the Supreme Court.
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