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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Judge dismisses DoJ subpoenas against Walz and other Minnesota officials

Judge dismisses DoJ subpoenas against Walz and other Minnesota officials

Summary

A federal judge stopped the U.S. Department of Justice from enforcing subpoenas against Minnesota officials, including Governor Tim Walz, which were issued during President Trump's immigration enforcement actions earlier this year. The judge ruled the subpoenas were politically motivated and aimed at punishing officials who opposed federal immigration policies.

Key Facts

  • The Department of Justice issued subpoenas in January to Minnesota leaders like Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison.
  • The subpoenas sought information related to accusations that state and local officials blocked federal immigration enforcement.
  • The federal immigration enforcement surge involved incidents where two U.S. citizens were killed by federal agents.
  • Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz ruled the subpoenas were issued mainly to pressure and punish officials rather than for genuine investigation purposes.
  • The judge said the subpoenas were an unlawful use of the grand jury process to harass political opponents.
  • The court found no valid investigative reason behind the subpoenas.
  • Attorney General Keith Ellison shared the court order and called the judge’s decision an “extremely rare step.”
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Dead Duck Found in Reflecting Pool: Experts Weigh In on 3 Potential Causes

Dead Duck Found in Reflecting Pool: Experts Weigh In on 3 Potential Causes

Summary

A dead duck was found in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after its recent $14 million renovation. Experts are unsure of the cause but suggest it could be due to chemical treatments, algae toxins, or natural reasons.

Key Facts

  • The Reflecting Pool was renovated recently with a $14 million budget, including repainting and refilling.
  • Soon after reopening, the pool water turned green because of algae growth.
  • Some of the new coating in the pool started peeling into the water.
  • Officials used hydrogen peroxide to fight the algae, a chemical generally safe in low amounts.
  • Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) can produce toxins harmful to wildlife during blooms.
  • No proof yet links the duck’s death to the hydrogen peroxide or algae toxins.
  • Experts say the duck’s death might also be natural, like disease or stress.
  • Only a necropsy (animal autopsy) can confirm the exact cause of death.
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Tucker Carlson Tells Republican Party, 'Im Out'

Tucker Carlson Tells Republican Party, 'Im Out'

Summary

Tucker Carlson announced he no longer supports the Republican Party, criticizing it for putting Israel’s interests above those of the United States. He made this statement during a podcast, saying he will not vote for the GOP because of its position on the Iran war and U.S.–Israel relations.

Key Facts

  • Tucker Carlson has been a longtime defender of the Republican Party but now says he is leaving it.
  • He says the GOP has "betrayed" Americans by prioritizing Israel’s interests over the U.S.
  • Carlson criticized President Trump’s 2024 campaign funding, claiming it involves donors loyal to Israel.
  • He called the current GOP stance “immoral” and said it no longer represents America-first policies.
  • President Trump has denied Israel influences his decisions about Iran.
  • Carlson’s break reflects a growing split within the Republican Party on foreign policy issues.
  • Carlson has a large audience, so his decision might affect other Republican voters and the party’s future.
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Judge in Charlie Kirk case to make ruling over prosecutors' media comments

Judge in Charlie Kirk case to make ruling over prosecutors' media comments

Summary

A judge in Utah will decide whether to punish prosecutors for comments they made to the media about the Charlie Kirk case. The judge’s ruling will focus on whether the prosecutors acted improperly by speaking publicly during the legal process.

Key Facts

  • The case involves Charlie Kirk, a political activist.
  • Utah prosecutors allegedly made public comments about the case.
  • A judge is considering sanctions, which means penalties or punishments.
  • The issue is whether the prosecutors broke rules by talking to the media.
  • The judge’s decision will affect how prosecutors handle public communication in this case.
  • The case is ongoing, and the ruling will come soon.
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Woman recalls finding mom "under the rubble" after Tesla crashed into home

Woman recalls finding mom "under the rubble" after Tesla crashed into home

Summary

A Tesla on autopilot crashed into a home in Katy, Texas, killing 76-year-old Martha Avila. Her daughter found her trapped under debris after the crash, and the Tesla driver said the car was on autopilot during the incident.

Key Facts

  • The crash happened in Katy, Texas, on a Friday.
  • The driver of the Tesla was 44 years old and cooperative with police.
  • The driver said the Tesla was in autopilot mode when it crashed.
  • Martha Avila, 76, died in the crash after being pinned against a wall by a refrigerator.
  • Surveillance video showed the Tesla moving at high speed before the crash.
  • Police are investigating the role of the driver and the autopilot system.
  • Tesla has not yet commented on the crash.
  • No charges have been filed so far as the investigation continues.
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New York, South Carolina set to hold key primaries

New York, South Carolina set to hold key primaries

Summary

Voters in New York, South Carolina, Utah, and Maryland will vote in important primary elections on Tuesday. These primaries are part of the process leading up to the 2026 midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • Primary elections will take place in New York, South Carolina, Utah, and Maryland.
  • These primaries help political parties choose their candidates for the 2026 midterm elections.
  • Midterm elections happen in the middle of a president’s term.
  • The outcomes will influence which candidates run for office in November 2026.
  • Primaries are key steps in the U.S. election process.
  • Voters will cast their ballots to select candidates from their preferred parties.
  • The results may impact the balance of power in Congress after the midterms.
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Who Is Chris Butler? Hare Krishna Guru Linked To Tulsi Gabbard

Who Is Chris Butler? Hare Krishna Guru Linked To Tulsi Gabbard

Summary

Tulsi Gabbard, who recently resigned as President Donald Trump’s director of national intelligence, had a long relationship with Chris Butler, a religious leader of a Hare Krishna group called Science of Identity Foundation (SIF). Internal documents suggest Butler influenced her political decisions while she was in Congress, but Gabbard’s team denies the claims and calls them anti-Hindu bias.

Key Facts

  • Tulsi Gabbard served four terms in Congress and was director of national intelligence under President Donald Trump.
  • Chris Butler leads the Science of Identity Foundation, a breakaway Hare Krishna group teaching meditation and strict lifestyle rules.
  • Internal documents from 2011 to 2017 suggest Butler advised Gabbard on political policies and messaging.
  • These documents were provided by a former SIF member, Rebecca Saltzburg, who said Gabbard misled voters about Butler’s influence.
  • Gabbard’s chief of staff said the reports are false and accused media coverage of anti-Hindu bias.
  • The Science of Identity Foundation has been described as both a spiritual community and by some ex-members as insular or cult-like.
  • Butler rarely appears in public and shares his teachings mainly through recordings.
  • Gabbard’s parents were involved in the SIF, and she grew up attending its schools.
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Trump Savings Account: $1,000 Being Sent Out in 2 Weeks

Trump Savings Account: $1,000 Being Sent Out in 2 Weeks

Summary

The Trump administration is starting a new program called "Trump Accounts" on July 4, which will set up investment accounts for children under 18. Eligible children born between 2025 and 2028 will get a one-time $1,000 deposit from the government to invest in U.S. stock market funds.

Key Facts

  • The program is called "Trump Accounts" and starts on July 4.
  • It is created under the Working Families Tax Cuts law and managed by the Treasury Department and IRS.
  • Any child under 18 who is a U.S. citizen with a Social Security number can have an account.
  • Children born from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2028, qualify for a $1,000 federal deposit.
  • Parents or guardians must set up the account using IRS Form 4547.
  • The account invests money in stock index funds focused on American companies, like those tracking the S&P 500.
  • Parents can add up to $5,000 per year to these accounts.
  • The program aims to encourage long-term investing, potentially growing the $1,000 into a much larger sum over many years.
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Canadian healthcare staff decry ‘cruel hoax’ after scam email promises paid day off

Canadian healthcare staff decry ‘cruel hoax’ after scam email promises paid day off

Summary

Healthcare workers in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, received an email promising a paid day off as thanks for their hard work. The email was actually a cybersecurity test to see who would click a suspicious link, which upset many staff who felt tired and undervalued.

Key Facts

  • Healthcare workers in Newfoundland and Labrador were sent an email titled “June Holiday” promising a paid day off.
  • The email thanked staff for working overtime during the introduction of a new system called CorCare.
  • The email came from an outside domain and asked workers to click a link to register for the day off.
  • The next day, staff were told the email was a cybersecurity test to catch those clicking on phishing links.
  • Many workers felt angry and betrayed, with some calling the test a "cruel hoax."
  • At least one healthcare worker quit, saying the email was the last straw in a stressful time.
  • Healthcare unions criticized the test as insensitive given staff burnout and denied vacation requests.
  • Officials apologized and promised to review how such tests are done to avoid hurting staff in the future.
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Federal judge quashes Trump DOJ subpoenas aimed at Minnesota’s Walz, Frey

Federal judge quashes Trump DOJ subpoenas aimed at Minnesota’s Walz, Frey

Summary

A federal judge in Minnesota rejected several subpoenas from the Department of Justice that targeted Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and other state officials. The judge said the subpoenas appeared to be used to harass political opponents of President Donald Trump.

Key Facts

  • A federal judge in Minnesota dismissed DOJ subpoenas.
  • The subpoenas were directed at Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey.
  • Other Minnesota state officials were also targeted.
  • The judge expressed concern the subpoenas were meant to harass political opponents.
  • The subpoenas came from the Department of Justice under President Donald Trump’s administration.
  • The ruling protects the officials from having to respond to these subpoenas.
  • The decision was made by U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz.
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Trump DOJ Subpoenas Against Tim Walz Blocked by GOP-Appointed Federal Judge

Trump DOJ Subpoenas Against Tim Walz Blocked by GOP-Appointed Federal Judge

Summary

A federal judge blocked six subpoenas from the Department of Justice that sought communications from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and other state and local officials. The judge ruled that the subpoenas were meant to punish Minnesota officials for opposing federal immigration efforts, not to support a real criminal investigation.

Key Facts

  • The subpoenas targeted Governor Tim Walz, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her, and officials from Hennepin and Ramsey counties.
  • The DOJ wanted one year’s worth of emails, texts, and policy documents about immigration enforcement.
  • The subpoenas came after Minnesota officials sued to stop a federal immigration operation called Operation Metro Surge.
  • U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz, appointed by President George W. Bush, blocked the subpoenas.
  • The judge said the subpoenas were used for political reasons, to pressure and punish Minnesota officials.
  • The ruling limits the federal government’s use of grand jury demands against state and local governments resisting federal policies.
  • The judge described the DOJ’s tactics as "blatantly unlawful" and an abuse of power.
  • The DOJ said the information was needed for a federal investigation, but the court disagreed, finding the subpoenas were retaliatory.
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Democrats are struggling with a growing mess in Maine

Democrats are struggling with a growing mess in Maine

Summary

Democrats face challenges in Maine’s 2nd congressional district after progressive Matt Dunlap won the primary over the centrist candidate supported by Democratic leaders. Dunlap now faces Republican former Governor Paul LePage in a district that President Trump won by nine points in 2024, making it a competitive race for both parties.

Key Facts

  • Progressive Matt Dunlap defeated centrist Joe Baldacci in the Democratic primary for Maine’s 2nd congressional district.
  • The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) supported Baldacci and spent money on ads for him but did not clearly commit to supporting Dunlap yet.
  • Dunlap will compete against Republican Paul LePage, who previously won the 2nd district as governor.
  • The 2nd district voted for President Trump by nine points in the 2024 election.
  • The seat is considered a top pickup chance for Republicans after Democrat Jared Golden retired.
  • House GOP super PAC has reserved $5.2 million for ads in this district.
  • Some Democrats worry about scandals involving Senate nominee Graham Platner, which could affect the party’s chances statewide.
  • There is debate within the Democratic Party about whether to fund and support progressive candidates like Dunlap in competitive races.
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Federal judge halts Trump administration effort to subpoena Walz in immigration enforcement probe

Federal judge halts Trump administration effort to subpoena Walz in immigration enforcement probe

Summary

A federal judge stopped the Trump administration from subpoenaing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and other state officials in an immigration investigation. The judge said the subpoenas were meant to pressure and punish them, not to find evidence of a crime.

Key Facts

  • The subpoenas were issued in January as part of an immigration enforcement probe in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
  • The subpoenas targeted Governor Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her, and officials in Ramsey and Hennepin counties.
  • U.S. District Judge Patrick Schlitz ruled the subpoenas were intended to harass and retaliate against Minnesota officials.
  • The judge found little or no evidence that the subpoenas related to any criminal violations.
  • Minnesota officials have the legal right not to take part in enforcing federal immigration laws.
  • The Justice Department was said to be using the grand jury process for purposes other than a criminal investigation.
  • Governor Walz called the decision a victory for the rule of law and democracy.
  • This ruling continues a pattern of federal courts pushing back against aggressive Justice Department investigation tactics under President Trump’s administration.
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Medicare Update: Millions Will See GLP-1 Costs Plummet to $50 Per Month

Medicare Update: Millions Will See GLP-1 Costs Plummet to $50 Per Month

Summary

Starting July 1, Medicare will launch the GLP-1 Bridge program to help millions of seniors afford weight-loss drugs at a reduced cost of about $50 per month. This program runs until the end of 2027 and aims to make important medications more accessible by lowering their high prices for eligible Medicare recipients.

Key Facts

  • The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program begins July 1 and lasts until December 31, 2027.
  • It caps out-of-pocket costs for certain weight-loss drugs at about $50 per month.
  • These medications include Wegovy, Foundayo, and Zepbound, originally for diabetes but used for weight loss.
  • Medicare did not previously cover weight-loss drugs, partly due to federal rules.
  • The program is for Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage members with a doctor’s prescription and prior approval.
  • Payments under this program do not count toward Medicare deductibles or out-of-pocket limits.
  • Access after 2027 depends on future changes to Medicare policies.
  • Patients enroll through their healthcare providers who submit medical information to Medicare.
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Federal judge tosses DOJ subpoenas to Tim Walz, other Minnesota officials

Federal judge tosses DOJ subpoenas to Tim Walz, other Minnesota officials

Summary

A federal judge rejected subpoenas issued by the Justice Department to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and other state officials. The subpoenas were part of a federal investigation into how Minnesota cooperates with immigration enforcement.

Key Facts

  • The judge dismissed subpoenas for Governor Tim Walz and other Minnesota officials.
  • The subpoenas were issued by the U.S. Department of Justice.
  • The investigation focuses on Minnesota's cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
  • The news is related to immigration issues in the state.
  • The ruling came from a federal judge on Monday.
  • The story is ongoing and may see further updates.
  • Governor Walz recently spoke at a climate conference in Austria.
  • The decision limits the Justice Department’s ability to compel information from Minnesota officials.
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Dead duckling found in Reflecting Pool

Dead duckling found in Reflecting Pool

Summary

A dead duckling was found in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, raising questions about the water quality. This happened shortly after the Trump administration finished more than $13 million in repairs at the site.

Key Facts

  • A dead duckling was discovered in the Reflecting Pool near the Lincoln Memorial.
  • The incident took place on a Sunday.
  • Photos showing the duckling and green algae in the pool were shared online.
  • The Reflecting Pool had recent renovations costing over $13 million.
  • The repairs were completed under President Donald Trump’s administration.
  • People are concerned about the cleanliness and safety of the pool’s water.
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Trump expected to meet with defense contractors Wednesday amid Iran peace talks

Trump expected to meet with defense contractors Wednesday amid Iran peace talks

Summary

President Donald Trump will meet with leaders of major U.S. defense companies to discuss increasing weapons production. This meeting happens as the administration continues peace talks with Iran and seeks to prioritize American manufacturing over shareholder profits.

Key Facts

  • The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday with top executives from leading U.S. defense contractors.
  • It follows a previous White House meeting on March 6 with companies like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon (RTX), Boeing, and others.
  • President Trump wants defense companies to focus on fulfilling contracts and speeding up production to support the military.
  • In January, Trump issued an order to limit dividend payments and stock buybacks by defense contractors.
  • Congress is considering making similar rules into law.
  • Some companies, like Northrop Grumman and RTX, increased dividends or continued some buybacks despite the order.
  • Trump invoked the Defense Production Act earlier in June to boost weapons production because of supply chain problems and production bottlenecks.
  • The goal is to ensure the U.S. can produce enough munitions, missiles, and defense equipment.
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Doorbell cam filmed Tesla Autopilot crash that killed woman in her home

Doorbell cam filmed Tesla Autopilot crash that killed woman in her home

Summary

A Tesla Model 3 using its Autopilot driver-assistance system crashed into a Texas home, killing a 76-year-old woman inside. Police are investigating the crash, which happened at high speed and caused major damage to the house.

Key Facts

  • The crash occurred in Harris County, Texas, involving Michael Butler driving a Tesla Model 3 with Autopilot engaged.
  • The car left its lane, left the road, and struck the brick home at high speed.
  • Martha Avila, 76, died inside the house; no one else was injured.
  • Police confirmed Butler was not intoxicated and is cooperating with the investigation.
  • Doorbell camera footage shows the Tesla crashing through the front of the home.
  • Tesla markets Autopilot as a safety feature but advises drivers to keep hands on the wheel and stay alert.
  • Critics say Tesla’s ads sometimes suggest drivers can rely too much on Autopilot.
  • Tesla is seeking regulatory changes to reduce driver controls on automated vehicles.
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Judge quashes 6 grand jury subpoenas against Minnesota officials

Judge quashes 6 grand jury subpoenas against Minnesota officials

Summary

A federal judge canceled six grand jury subpoenas that the Justice Department sent to Minnesota state and local officials, including Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. The judge ruled the subpoenas were used to pressure these officials into cooperating with a federal immigration enforcement operation, which was challenged in court by Minnesota officials.

Key Facts

  • Six grand jury subpoenas were issued to Minnesota state and local government offices.
  • The subpoenas targeted Governor Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, the Minnesota attorney general, and local county boards.
  • The subpoenas came after Minnesota officials sued to stop a federal immigration enforcement operation called Operation Metro Surge.
  • U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz said the subpoenas were used unlawfully to pressure political opponents.
  • The judge found no valid investigative reason for the subpoenas.
  • The Justice Department served the subpoenas under the Trump administration.
  • The ruling prevents using grand jury powers to force officials to take actions the federal government cannot require.
  • The Department of Justice did not immediately comment on the ruling.
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Hassett: Warsh ‘not asking the White House for advice’ on interest rates

Hassett: Warsh ‘not asking the White House for advice’ on interest rates

Summary

Kevin Hassett, the director of the National Economic Council, said that Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh is not asking the White House for advice about interest rates or monetary policy. Although Hassett and Warsh are close friends and talk regularly, Warsh makes decisions independently from the President’s office.

Key Facts

  • Kevin Hassett is the director of the National Economic Council.
  • Kevin Warsh is the Chair of the Federal Reserve.
  • Hassett and Warsh have been close friends for about 30 years.
  • Warsh does not seek advice from the White House about interest rates.
  • They do talk often, but Warsh works independently on monetary policy.
  • Hassett made these remarks during an interview on CNBC’s “Squawk Box.”
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