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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

US treasury chief urged Trump not to host ‘Mr Bean on crack’ Zelenskyy, book says

US treasury chief urged Trump not to host ‘Mr Bean on crack’ Zelenskyy, book says

June 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Scott Bessent, the US treasury secretary, advised President Trump not to host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the White House, using harsh and disrespectful language about him. Despite warnings, the meeting happened and was described as very tense, with Trump and others criticizing Zelenskyy. The book "Regime Change" shares these details and reports on failed talks about a minerals deal between the US and Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • Scott Bessent called Zelenskyy offensive names, including "Mr Bean on crack" and “special-needs child.”
  • Bessent recommended President Trump not to let Zelenskyy into the White House before signing a minerals deal.
  • The White House meeting on February 28, 2025, was difficult, with Trump and JD Vance criticizing Zelenskyy.
  • Zelenskyy was advised (unsuccessfully) to wear a suit to the meeting.
  • Bessent had heated talks with Zelenskyy during a visit to Kyiv before the meeting.
  • Negotiations over the minerals deal were also problematic, with disagreements among US officials.
  • JD Vance’s wife helped rewrite parts of the Ukrainian minerals deal, calling it “awful.”
  • Bessent compared President Trump to George Soros, a well-known investor and Democratic donor.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Louisiana pastor sentenced to 80 years for sexually molesting two boys

Louisiana pastor sentenced to 80 years for sexually molesting two boys

June 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A pastor in suburban New Orleans was sentenced to 80 years in prison for sexually abusing two boys. This is his third conviction for crimes involving minors. The court heard powerful testimony from a survivor’s mother about the betrayal and harm caused by the pastor.

Key Facts

  • Terry Reed was sentenced to 80 years in prison for sexually molesting two boys.
  • This is his third time being convicted of sexual abuse of minors.
  • Prosecutors said Reed used his role as a pastor and biblical teachings to manipulate the boys.
  • Reed had prior guilty pleas in 1997 and 2017 related to indecent behavior with juveniles.
  • The sentencing judge gave the maximum prison time after hearing from a victim’s mother.
  • The mother trusted Reed to help her son but was deeply hurt by his abuse.
  • In 2002, two boys died by electrocution in a hot tub at Reed’s home; the cause was never fully determined.
  • The New Orleans area has seen multiple cases of sexual abuse by religious leaders in recent decades.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Congress wonders as the Iran war draws to a close: Was it worth it?

Congress wonders as the Iran war draws to a close: Was it worth it?

June 20, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Congress is debating whether the nearly four-month war with Iran ordered by President Donald Trump was worthwhile. While some senators criticize the conflict and its outcomes, others believe it improved U.S. safety. Lawmakers now face challenges including addressing the war's impact, resupplying military resources, and maintaining a fragile ceasefire.

Key Facts

  • Congress never officially authorized the war with Iran but did not fully oppose it.
  • The conflict lasted nearly four months under President Donald Trump’s leadership.
  • Senators have mixed views: some call the war a failure, while others say it increased U.S. safety.
  • The U.S. spent billions and lost lives during the war.
  • The war affected national security and changed political relations in the Middle East.
  • Congress is responsible for explaining the war’s outcomes to the public.
  • The Pentagon has requested $1.5 trillion for defense funding this year, partly due to the war’s impact.
  • Some senators want to limit Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s spending until investigations and reports, including one on a strike at an Iranian school, are completed.
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AP News
Trump says Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized, defends response to algae bloom

Trump says Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized, defends response to algae bloom

June 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump said the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized shortly after a costly renovation project finished. There were also reports of algae growth and peeling paint at the site between the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.

Key Facts

  • The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation.
  • Just two weeks after completion, issues like an algae bloom and peeling paint appeared.
  • President Trump described the damage as vandalism.
  • The Reflecting Pool is located between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.
  • The president publicly addressed these problems on a Friday evening.
  • Algae bloom means a rapid increase of algae, which can harm water quality and appearance.
  • The Reflecting Pool is a significant and symbolic landmark in Washington, D.C.
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The Hill
DC’s ‘renovated’ pool reflects the Trump administration’s dangerous hubris

DC’s ‘renovated’ pool reflects the Trump administration’s dangerous hubris

June 20, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

President Donald Trump spent $14.2 million trying to clean and renovate the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool in Washington, DC. Despite his efforts, the pool still suffers from algae problems and now has peeling paint, showing the renovation did not fully succeed.

Key Facts

  • President Trump promised to fix the algae problem in the reflecting pool within two weeks.
  • The reflecting pool is a historic monument built in 1922, often affected by algae and leaks.
  • Previous renovations, including a $34 million update in 2012, have not solved the algae problem.
  • Trump hired a company through a no-bid contract to renovate the pool using nanobubbler technology.
  • After the renovation, the pool was painted blue and the algae were claimed to be killed.
  • Reports show the algae quickly returned and is now at a high level for June in recent years.
  • The pool currently has peeling paint and still looks green, indicating ongoing issues.
  • The reflecting pool is famous for being near the site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech.
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Guardian US
‘Like a bomb had gone off’: suspected arson attack fuels Glastonbury unease

‘Like a bomb had gone off’: suspected arson attack fuels Glastonbury unease

June 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A fire, believed to be a deliberate attack, damaged several caravans where people live in Glastonbury, Somerset. This incident has caused worry among residents as more people are living in vans and caravans due to housing shortages.

Key Facts

  • The fire happened on a Saturday night and damaged multiple caravans near Glastonbury.
  • No one was injured because the caravans were empty during the fire.
  • Two people have been arrested on suspicion of setting the fire and related charges but were released on bail.
  • People have been living in caravans in Glastonbury for many years, but tensions have increased recently.
  • A shortage of affordable housing and rising rents in Somerset has forced more people to live in vehicles.
  • The number of vans and caravans used as homes rose from 131 in February to 157 in May.
  • Some local residents are unsupportive, blaming the caravan dwellers for problems.
  • Local politicians are discussing the housing crisis and the need for urgent action in the area.
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Guardian World
‘It’s not science, it’s coercion’: health experts decry RFK Jr order on hantavirus quarantine

‘It’s not science, it’s coercion’: health experts decry RFK Jr order on hantavirus quarantine

June 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. ordered a mandatory quarantine for a person exposed to hantavirus, overruling the CDC’s recommendation for home quarantine. Health law experts say this decision lacks scientific evidence and may set a bad example for future public health actions in the US.

Key Facts

  • A passenger named Angela Perryman was ordered into mandatory quarantine after contact with someone sick from the Andes virus, a type of hantavirus.
  • The CDC recommended that Perryman could safely quarantine at home with remote symptom monitoring.
  • HHS Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. overruled the CDC and continued strict quarantine without providing scientific justification.
  • Experts describe the quarantine order as possibly unconstitutional, arbitrary, and without clear medical evidence.
  • The CDC requested states to provide symptom checks and guards for quarantined passengers, which is unusual for hantavirus cases.
  • Some states allowed self-quarantine while Florida refused the CDC’s conditions.
  • Critics warn this decision could harm public trust and lead to stricter, less justified quarantines in future outbreaks like Ebola.
  • Public health rules usually require the least restrictive methods to protect people’s health and rights.
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Guardian World
How do people in the US describe customer service in 2026? ‘Debilitating, depressing, enraging. Ugh’

How do people in the US describe customer service in 2026? ‘Debilitating, depressing, enraging. Ugh’

June 20, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

People in the US are very unhappy with customer service in 2026, especially with automated systems like chatbots. Many experience long waits, mistakes, and difficulties reaching real people to solve problems, causing stress and extra costs.

Key Facts

  • Many customers say AI customer service only helps with simple tasks and fails with complex issues.
  • Automated chatbots often trap customers in endless loops without solving their problems.
  • Complaints include telecom overcharges, poor product quality, and trouble with finance and health insurance companies.
  • Examples include delayed medication deliveries, fraudulent phone charges, and missed repair appointments.
  • Customers often spend days or weeks trying to fix issues, losing time and money.
  • Companies like CVS, AT&T, FedEx, Rebel, and Samsung were mentioned with varying responses or no comment.
  • Older Americans worry about retirement struggles due to these ongoing customer service problems.
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Guardian US Guardian Business
I Did a DNA Test To Find My Father. Then One Message Changed Everything

I Did a DNA Test To Find My Father. Then One Message Changed Everything

June 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The author shares their experience of searching for their biological father through DNA testing after feeling rejected by their adoptive father during puberty. They found a possible relative but were rejected after revealing their transgender identity.

Key Facts

  • The author was raised by an adoptive father who became distant after the author showed gender nonconforming behavior.
  • The author maintained some contact with their birth mother but was initially told she did not know who their father was.
  • After learning about DNA testing to find relatives, the author took a test to try to find their father.
  • The test identified a boy who shared about 23% of the author’s DNA, suggesting a close family relationship.
  • The boy’s mother, who took the test for her son, engaged in many messages with the author.
  • The planned first meeting was canceled after the author disclosed they are transgender.
  • The author felt rejected and hurt because of this response, losing hope of finding acceptance in their biological family.
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Newsweek
How New Air Force One Plane Compares to Trump’s Luxury Private Jet

How New Air Force One Plane Compares to Trump’s Luxury Private Jet

June 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

President Donald Trump unveiled a new Air Force One plane, a Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar, at Joint Base Andrews. The plane has a luxury interior originally made for the Qatari royal family and is larger and more complex than Trump’s private Boeing 757 jet.

Key Facts

  • The new Air Force One is a modified Boeing 747-8i jumbo jet gifted by the Qatari government.
  • Trump also owns a custom Boeing 757 with personalized luxury features.
  • The presidential plane is painted mostly white with a blue underside and a red stripe, displaying "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and an American flag on the tail.
  • Trump’s private jet has a black upper fuselage with white lower body and gold “TRUMP” lettering.
  • The Boeing 747 has four engines, while Trump’s 757 has two.
  • The new Air Force One interior includes wood paneling, leather lounges, a private suite, medical facilities, large conference areas, and two kitchens.
  • Trump’s private jet includes Italian leather seats, gold accents, private guest rooms, and an extensive entertainment system.
  • The new Air Force One may be donated to Trump’s presidential library after his presidency, possibly allowing him continued use.
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Newsweek
The Uplift: Graduates share the stage

The Uplift: Graduates share the stage

June 20, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

A mother in Maryland will receive her diploma at her son's graduation ceremony by sharing the stage with him. Spellman College, a historically Black college in Atlanta, is celebrating seven women who are top students in their 2026 graduating class.

Key Facts

  • A Maryland mother will graduate alongside her son at his graduation ceremony.
  • Both will cross the stage to receive their diplomas together.
  • Spellman College is located in Atlanta and is a historically Black college (HBCU).
  • The college is celebrating seven women who are the top students in their class of 2026.
  • The story highlights special achievements and graduation celebrations.
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CBS News
What Democrats want: New York congressional race showcases fight over party’s future

What Democrats want: New York congressional race showcases fight over party’s future

June 20, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A Democratic primary race in New York’s 12th congressional district is drawing national attention because of its crowded, competitive field and the different political ideas the candidates represent. The race includes four main candidates, all white men, who focus on issues like opposing President Donald Trump and regulating artificial intelligence companies. One candidate, Jack Schlossberg, is known for his Kennedy family background and youthful image but has limited political experience.

Key Facts

  • The race is for a safe Democratic seat in Manhattan’s 12th congressional district, which is wealthy and includes areas like the Upper West Side and Billionaires’ Row.
  • The Democratic primary has become high-profile and is watched nationally.
  • Four main candidates are competing; all are white men with different political appeals.
  • Candidates have promoted tough stances against President Donald Trump and expressed concerns about regulating artificial intelligence companies.
  • Jack Schlossberg is a 33-year-old candidate with an MBA from Harvard, famous Kennedy family heritage, but little political or work experience.
  • Schlossberg is known for his youthful, energetic public image, including social media and lifestyle posts.
  • Polls in the district have shifted, with candidates like Micah Lasher and Alex Bores leading at different times.
  • George Conway, a Republican and critic of President Trump, is also running and cultivates a tough-guy image.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Colbert's the Beginning, The First Amendment Battle Continues | Opinion

Colbert's the Beginning, The First Amendment Battle Continues | Opinion

June 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The article discusses an incident involving CBS, Stephen Colbert, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) over an interview with a political candidate that raised questions about the Equal Time Rule. It argues that the Equal Time Rule, created during the radio era, may no longer suit today's media environment and that government attempts to regulate speech in this way can limit freedom of expression.

Key Facts

  • The FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said CBS and Stephen Colbert would violate the Equal Time Rule if they aired an interview with Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico before the primary.
  • The Equal Time Rule requires broadcasters to give equal chance to all political candidates on public airwaves.
  • Stephen Colbert’s interview with Talarico did not air, and Colbert lost his job at CBS, which is now under new leadership.
  • CBS said it ended Colbert’s show mainly because it lost $40 million a year.
  • The Equal Time Rule was created in 1934, when radio was the main news source.
  • Today, many platforms and channels allow political campaigns to reach voters widely, lessening the rule’s original purpose.
  • The article suggests the Equal Time Rule restricts speech and government regulation can act as censorship.
  • It recommends removing the Equal Time Rule to better reflect current media realities and protect free speech.
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Newsweek
GOP bullish on political impact for Republicans of Trump MOU with Iran

GOP bullish on political impact for Republicans of Trump MOU with Iran

June 20, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Republicans generally doubt that President Trump’s agreement with Iran will create a major win in world politics, but they believe it could help Republican candidates in upcoming elections. The deal has already contributed to a drop in gas prices, which some see as a positive sign for voters.

Key Facts

  • President Trump made a deal with Iran.
  • Many Republicans are skeptical about the deal's global political benefits.
  • Republicans are optimistic that the deal will help them in the midterm elections.
  • Gas prices have started to fall after the agreement.
  • Some Republican officials and political workers feel relieved by the deal’s impact on markets.
  • Oil prices have fallen to their lowest levels in a certain period.
  • The focus is on how the agreement affects U.S. politics and voter opinions.
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The Hill
Paint from Trump renovation peels off Washington's Reflecting Pool

Paint from Trump renovation peels off Washington's Reflecting Pool

June 20, 2026 • France24

Summary

The Reflecting Pool in Washington D.C. was recently repainted blue as part of renovation work ordered by President Donald Trump. Less than two weeks after reopening, the paint has started to peel off, and algae have caused the water to turn green.

Key Facts

  • The Reflecting Pool is located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
  • President Donald Trump ordered renovation work that involved painting the pool blue with an American flag design.
  • The pool was recently reopened after these renovations.
  • Within two weeks, the paint began peeling off the pool's surface.
  • The water in the pool has developed green algae growth.
  • The changes have affected the appearance of this well-known landmark.
  • The article was released on June 20, 2026.
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France24
Trump unveils new Air Force One converted from luxury jet gifted by Qatar

Trump unveils new Air Force One converted from luxury jet gifted by Qatar

June 20, 2026 • France24

Summary

President Donald Trump revealed a new Air Force One plane converted from a luxury Boeing 747 originally owned by Qatar. This plane will temporarily replace the current presidential jets while new ones ordered from Boeing are delayed until 2028.

Key Facts

  • The new Air Force One is a Boeing 747 gift from Qatar, converted into a presidential jet.
  • It has a different look from older planes, with navy blue and red stripes and a large American flag on the tail.
  • The plane’s interior was kept mostly the same but improved to meet strict security rules.
  • The new jets ordered from Boeing are delayed until 2028, so this plane will be used temporarily.
  • President Trump plans to use this plane for upcoming international trips, including a NATO summit in Turkey.
  • The plane is called a "flying White House" by President Trump due to its luxury features.
  • Accepting the jet from Qatar raised questions about ethics and legality.
  • The Air Force said modifications to make the plane secure will cost less than $400 million.
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France24
New Liver Disease Cases Double as Obesity, Alcohol Collide

New Liver Disease Cases Double as Obesity, Alcohol Collide

June 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A liver disease linked to both alcohol use and obesity, called MetALD, has more than doubled since 1990 in the United States. Experts say this disease, which includes liver damage from fat buildup and scarring, is increasing because more people are obese while still drinking alcohol.

Key Facts

  • MetALD stands for metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-associated liver disease.
  • It affects people who have at least one metabolic risk, like obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure, combined with moderate alcohol use.
  • The disease has more than doubled in cases since 1990.
  • About 1 in 10 U.S. adults reported both heavy drinking and obesity in 2023.
  • Deaths linked to MetALD have risen sharply over the last 20 years.
  • Researchers say even small amounts of alcohol can increase liver damage in people with obesity and related health issues.
  • Federal health officials recommend drinking less alcohol to reduce risk, especially for those with metabolic problems.
  • Obesity rates have increased notably since 2008, which likely contributes to the rise in MetALD cases.
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Newsweek
The Scan Showed Something 'Unusual'—Doctor’s Next Words Stunned Mom-To-Be

The Scan Showed Something 'Unusual'—Doctor’s Next Words Stunned Mom-To-Be

June 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

An Arizona woman, Aspen Oothoudt, learned during a 20-week pregnancy scan that her unborn son had a rare condition called Anophthalmia, meaning he was born without eyes. Despite medical concerns and options to end the pregnancy, she and her boyfriend chose to continue, and their son Jettson was born healthy and is developing well.

Key Facts

  • Aspen Oothoudt had anxiety before and during her 20-week pregnancy scan because of a previous miscarriage.
  • Doctors found that her unborn son’s eyes had not developed and suggested an MRI to confirm.
  • The diagnosis was Anophthalmia, a rare condition where a baby is born without one or both eyes.
  • Genetic testing showed neither parent carried the gene causing this condition.
  • Doctors warned there might be brain defects and mentioned termination as an option.
  • Oothoudt and her boyfriend decided against terminating the pregnancy.
  • Tests showed no brain or central nervous system problems, only missing eyes.
  • Their son Jettson was born healthy in January and is thriving.
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Newsweek
Trump’s DC makeover frenzy bewilders locals and visitors: ‘It’s like we’re under occupation’

Trump’s DC makeover frenzy bewilders locals and visitors: ‘It’s like we’re under occupation’

June 20, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

President Donald Trump has ordered several construction and renovation projects in Washington DC ahead of the US’s 250th anniversary celebrations. These projects have caused many public areas near the White House to be closed or fenced off, affecting visitors and locals. Some restoration work includes fixing fountains, rebuilding the East Wing of the White House, and cleaning the reflecting pool.

Key Facts

  • Many sites near the White House and Lafayette Square are under construction or renovation.
  • President Trump is having the East Wing of the White House demolished to build a ballroom.
  • The East Wing project is expected to cost $600 million, half funded by taxpayers.
  • The National Park Service is restoring fountains and the reflecting pool on the National Mall.
  • A new 250-foot arch is planned near Arlington National Cemetery, which could change Washington’s skyline.
  • Several public areas including parts of Pennsylvania Avenue and the Ellipse have been closed to visitors.
  • Construction and restoration work has caused disappointment among tourists and local preservation groups.
  • Some unrelated projects, like a Gulf War memorial and a sewage tunnel, add to the busy construction atmosphere.
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Guardian US
The Fission Theory of JD Vance

The Fission Theory of JD Vance

June 20, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

JD Vance, now Vice President and running mate of President Donald Trump, previously criticized Trump but later fully embraced Trumpism. Vance faces challenges explaining America First policies, especially regarding a controversial Iran deal that divides supporters and critics.

Key Facts

  • JD Vance was once critical of President Trump, calling him a "cultural heroin" and warning about his lack of military expertise.
  • Vance has since reversed his position and fully supports Trump, becoming a key translator and representative of the Trump movement.
  • He serves as Vice President and is expected to defend and promote the initial Iran deal memorandum.
  • The Iran deal has upset some hawks in the U.S. and Israel, creating tension around American foreign policy.
  • Vance opposes U.S. military intervention abroad and supports the America First approach to foreign policy.
  • As a former Marine who served in Iraq, Vance has personal experience with American military actions overseas.
  • Vance’s shift from critic to loyalist shows the challenge of succeeding a movement built on Trump’s complex style.
  • He aims to balance loyalty to President Trump with his own political future, eyeing the 2028 presidential race.
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Newsweek
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