The Actual News

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

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Newsom on reported DOJ investigation: ‘Go after me’

Newsom on reported DOJ investigation: ‘Go after me’

Summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom responded strongly to reports that the U.S. Department of Justice is investigating him and his wife. He challenged President Trump to take action against him and compared the situation to what happens in other countries.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Department of Justice is reportedly investigating Governor Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom.
  • Newsom spoke about the investigation during an interview in Chicago.
  • He expressed defiance and challenged President Donald Trump to proceed with any actions.
  • Newsom described the situation as similar to actions often seen in other countries.
  • The comments came from Newsom during a conversation with MS NOW reporter Jacob Soboroff.
  • This reflects tension between Governor Newsom, a Democrat, and President Trump.
Read the Original

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

Trump frames Cuba intervention as easier than Iran

Trump frames Cuba intervention as easier than Iran

Summary

President Trump said a possible U.S. invasion of Cuba might be easier and faster than military actions in Iran because Cuba is closer and less well-armed. He compared a Cuba operation to a quick mission in Venezuela and mentioned planning for military options if Cuba’s government collapses.

Key Facts

  • President Trump suggested a Cuba invasion could resemble the quick capture of Venezuela’s leader in January.
  • He said Iran’s military is stronger and further away, making conflict there more difficult and longer.
  • Venezuela has oil, but Cuba does not; Cuba has good property and shoreline.
  • Cuba’s military has declined since the 1990s and uses old Soviet equipment.
  • The U.S. found Cuba has acquired over 300 military drones, which could threaten U.S. bases.
  • The Trump administration has made military plans for a potential Cuban regime collapse, possibly this summer.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whose family is Cuban, is actively involved in the matter.
  • President Trump did not give a set timeline for any actions in Cuba but said plans remain flexible.
Read the Original

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

DOJ refuses to issue signed declaration verifying 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' is dead

DOJ refuses to issue signed declaration verifying 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' is dead

Summary

The Justice Department did not provide a signed statement from acting Attorney General Todd Blanche confirming that it will not move forward with President Donald Trump's planned "Anti-Weaponization Fund." This refusal came after a federal judge gave the DOJ seven days to confirm in writing that the fund would not be created.

Key Facts

  • The DOJ was asked by a federal judge to verify in writing that it would not create the "Anti-Weaponization Fund."
  • The request came after concerns about the nature and purpose of the fund linked to President Trump.
  • Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche was supposed to sign the declaration.
  • The DOJ refused to provide this signed confirmation.
  • The judge’s deadline for the declaration was seven days.
  • The "Anti-Weaponization Fund" is described as controversial.
  • The situation is part of ongoing developments connected to President Trump’s administration.
Read the Original

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

Several notable Republican senators break with Trump over Iran agreement

Several notable Republican senators break with Trump over Iran agreement

Summary

Several Republican senators expressed concerns about President Donald Trump's recent agreement with Iran. They worry the deal could give Iran billions of dollars and economic benefits with little in return, risking U.S. security and interests.

Key Facts

  • President Trump signed a memorandum of understanding with Iran to support its reconstruction and economic development.
  • The agreement includes plans to unfreeze $24 billion in Iranian assets and create a $300 billion fund for rebuilding Iran.
  • Senator Tom Cotton praised Trump’s efforts to weaken Iran but said parts of the deal might lose the leverage built over six years.
  • Senator Ted Cruz called giving billions to Iran a "bad idea" and opposes sending any U.S. money to the Iranian government.
  • Senator Roger Wicker criticized the deal for possibly making past agreements look small by comparison and opposed lifting sanctions on Iran.
  • Trump said the U.S. will not contribute to the $300 billion fund; other countries may decide to do so.
  • Senators expressed concern that Iran has not changed its hostility toward the U.S. and Israel.
  • There are worries about the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz under the agreement, as Iran might charge fees for ships passing through.
Read the Original

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

Central Park horse carriage rides temporarily suspended following death of tourist

Central Park horse carriage rides temporarily suspended following death of tourist

Summary

A horse carriage ride in Central Park ended tragically when an 18-year-old Indian tourist fell from a runaway carriage and later died. The city has temporarily stopped horse carriage rides in Central Park while investigating the accident and reviewing safety rules.

Key Facts

  • The accident happened on June 17, 2026, in Central Park, New York City.
  • The victim, Romanch Mahajan, was 18 years old and visiting New York with his family.
  • The carriage driver left the carriage to take a photo when the horse ran away.
  • The carriage hit another carriage and flipped, causing Romanch to fall and get critically injured.
  • Romanch later died at NewYork-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center.
  • The carriage driver was suspended, and the horse was permanently retired.
  • The Transport Workers Union paused all horse carriage rides and is conducting safety training.
  • The City Council is considering a law to permanently ban horse-drawn carriage rides in Central Park.
Read the Original

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

DOJ rebuffs judge's demand to state "anti-weaponization" fund is dead

DOJ rebuffs judge's demand to state "anti-weaponization" fund is dead

Summary

The Trump administration refused a judge's request to provide a sworn statement that a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund is completely ended. The Justice Department says the fund is not moving forward but objects to the court demanding testimony from senior officials. A federal judge continues to block the fund’s creation and is considering whether a related lawsuit should proceed.

Key Facts

  • The "anti-weaponization" fund was a $1.8 billion program to address claims of government misuse or targeting.
  • The program was created as part of settling a lawsuit filed by President Trump against the IRS over leaked tax returns.
  • A federal judge ordered the Justice Department not to create or operate the fund until further ruling.
  • The judge demanded senior officials swear under oath that the fund will not continue in any form.
  • The Justice Department declined, saying sworn statements are unnecessary and raise separation of powers issues.
  • Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche previously told Congress the fund is "not going forward."
  • The fund faced criticism from Republican lawmakers concerned about possible payouts related to the Jan. 6 Capitol attack.
  • A coalition including nonprofits and a former federal prosecutor is suing to stop the fund.
Read the Original

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

Who Is John Cafaro? Trump Donor Scrutinized Amid Reflecting Pool Debacle

Who Is John Cafaro? Trump Donor Scrutinized Amid Reflecting Pool Debacle

Summary

John J. Cafaro, a businessman and donor to President Donald Trump, is under scrutiny for his company’s $1.7 million federal contract to install a water purification system in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The project has faced criticism after algae appeared in the pool despite the treatment, and Cafaro has a criminal record related to bribery and campaign finance violations.

Key Facts

  • John J. Cafaro has donated large amounts to President Donald Trump, including $250,000 in 2020 and $100,000 in 2024.
  • Cafaro’s company, Greenwater Services, received a $1.7 million no-bid contract to install a “nano bubble” device to remove algae in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
  • The algae returned to the pool after the installation, leading to public criticism.
  • The Department of the Interior said the company was selected for its expertise, not because of political connections.
  • Cafaro previously pleaded guilty to bribing a congressman and to a campaign finance crime.
  • Some Democrats and public figures have criticized the awarding of the contract given Cafaro’s past.
  • Cafaro is described as a longtime businessman involved in retail and development projects in Ohio and other states.
Read the Original

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

Exclusive: Trump tells "The Axios Show" that Anthropic was a national security threat

Exclusive: Trump tells "The Axios Show" that Anthropic was a national security threat

Summary

President Trump said last week he saw the AI company Anthropic as a national security threat but believes the situation has improved since then. The U.S. government recently put new restrictions on Anthropic due to security concerns but is now working with the company to set safety standards for AI technology.

Key Facts

  • President Trump viewed Anthropic as a national security risk last week but no longer sees it as a threat.
  • The U.S. Commerce Department limited foreign access to Anthropic’s advanced AI models.
  • The Pentagon labeled Anthropic a supply chain risk, a designation usually given to foreign threats.
  • Amazon reported a security problem with Anthropic’s system, which raised government concerns.
  • Anthropic’s CEO, Dario Amodei, responded quickly to the government’s concerns, which helped ease tensions.
  • President Trump said he could use emergency powers under the Defense Production Act if needed but has not done so.
  • Both Anthropic and the White House want to work together on AI safety and protecting U.S. infrastructure.
  • President Trump emphasized the U.S. is ahead of China in AI and wants to keep it that way.
Read the Original

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

Over 160 troops contract flu at Texas base after Hegseth lifts vaccine order

Over 160 troops contract flu at Texas base after Hegseth lifts vaccine order

Summary

More than 160 military personnel at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas caught the flu recently after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stopped the rule requiring flu shots for service members. Officials confirmed the rise in flu cases at the base.

Key Facts

  • Over 160 troops at Lackland Air Force Base have had the flu in recent weeks.
  • This increase came after the flu vaccine requirement was removed for military members.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made the decision to end mandatory flu vaccinations earlier this year.
  • The Air Force confirmed the information about the flu cases to The Hill.
  • Lackland Air Force Base is located in Texas.
  • The flu outbreak happened after changes in vaccine policy for the military.
Read the Original

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

Barack and Michelle Obama surprise first visitors to newly opened presidential center

Barack and Michelle Obama surprise first visitors to newly opened presidential center

Summary

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama welcomed the first 100 visitors to the newly opened Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. They also read a children's book at the center’s library and greeted guests during the opening events on June 19, 2026.

Key Facts

  • The Obama Presidential Center officially opened on June 19, 2026, in Chicago.
  • President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama greeted the first 100 visitors personally.
  • The Obamas read the book "Where the Wild Things Are" to 25 school children in the center’s library.
  • The center includes a museum about the Obamas and public spaces like a library branch, playground, athletic center, basketball courts, and picnic areas.
  • The building design features four hands coming together in a symbol of unity, with large letters quoting President Obama's 2015 speech on the Selma march.
  • The opening event included a ceremony with former presidents, politicians, celebrities, and thousands watching online.
  • The center is located on Chicago’s South Side, near places important to the Obamas’ early lives and careers.
  • Tickets for visiting the center are sold out through November 2026.
Read the Original

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

Watch the extended Trump interview on "The Axios Show"

Watch the extended Trump interview on "The Axios Show"

Summary

President Donald Trump appeared on "The Axios Show" with Marc Caputo. He spoke from the White House about topics like the war in Iran, his opinions on world leaders, his plans regarding Cuba, and his thoughts on artificial intelligence.

Key Facts

  • President Trump was interviewed on "The Axios Show."
  • The interview took place in the Roosevelt Room at the White House.
  • He discussed the war in Iran.
  • He shared his views about various world leaders.
  • He talked about his plans for Cuba.
  • He gave his opinion on artificial intelligence (AI).
  • The full interview transcript is available for readers.
  • A YouTube subscription is encouraged to watch more content from Axios.
Read the Original

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

Read the transcript of Trump's interview with "The Axios Show"

Read the transcript of Trump's interview with "The Axios Show"

Summary

President Donald Trump talked with Axios about how he handles power and leadership in his current term compared to his first term. He said his current administration is more powerful due to experience and criticized his predecessor as a failure. He also described his goal as getting things done rather than changing his style.

Key Facts

  • President Trump believes wielding power requires careful judgment and values potential over experience.
  • He said his current administration feels more powerful than his first term.
  • He claimed the previous president was a disaster, making his current term look better by comparison.
  • Trump highlighted achievements of his first term, including rebuilding the military and starting the Space Force.
  • He said he focuses on getting jobs done and doesn’t plan to change his approach based on past terms.
  • Trump described a recent G7 meeting where he joked about being "the boss" among world leaders.
  • He mentioned Modi of India was present at the G7 meeting and that some leaders can attend if they wish.
  • Trump values different types of leadership but the transcript cuts off before he fully defines a great leader.
Read the Original

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

Exclusive: President Trump talks Iran, Cuba, Israel, AI, and power on "The Axios Show"

Exclusive: President Trump talks Iran, Cuba, Israel, AI, and power on "The Axios Show"

Summary

President Donald Trump spoke in an interview about several key issues including his role in ending the war in Iran, possible actions toward Cuba similar to Venezuela, concerns over artificial intelligence (AI) safety, and his view on the limits of his presidential power. He credited his deal with preventing a global economic crisis and expressed strong confidence in his authority as president.

Key Facts

  • President Trump said his deal to end the war in Iran helped avoid a worldwide depression.
  • He suggested that U.S. action in Cuba could happen quickly, similar to the intervention in Venezuela.
  • Trump claimed that without him, Israel might not exist today because he ended the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement (JCPOA).
  • He mentioned that a major AI lab's recent developments briefly looked like a national security threat.
  • Trump stated he currently believes there are no limits to his presidential power.
  • The interview lasted 45 minutes and was conducted by Axios White House correspondent Marc Caputo in the Roosevelt Room.
  • The discussion covered multiple global and national security topics.
Read the Original

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

Free enterprise built America — here’s why we must sustain it.

Free enterprise built America — here’s why we must sustain it.

Summary

The Congressional Free Enterprise Caucus is a group made up of four leaders from different political views. Their goal is to support economic growth, manage government spending carefully, and create sensible rules to protect the American free enterprise system.

Key Facts

  • The caucus was formed by four leaders with diverse political beliefs.
  • It focuses on promoting economic growth in the U.S.
  • The group aims to encourage fiscal responsibility, meaning careful handling of government money.
  • They support creating thoughtful regulations that protect businesses without harming growth.
  • Their mission is to sustain the American free enterprise system, which is the economy based on private business and competition.
Read the Original

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

Barack Obama 'Very Happy' to See Donald Trump's Ceasefire With Iran

Barack Obama 'Very Happy' to See Donald Trump's Ceasefire With Iran

Summary

President Donald Trump secured a ceasefire agreement with Iran after months of military conflict. Former President Barack Obama said he was happy about the ceasefire but questioned whether the war was worth the cost and if it left the U.S. in a stronger position.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced a ceasefire with Iran following a period of military fighting.
  • Obama expressed hope that the ceasefire would last but questioned the war’s overall success.
  • Obama said the U.S. spent billions and strained its military, possibly ending up in a worse position.
  • Military experts are divided on who benefited from the conflict and how much damage Iran sustained.
  • Some experts say Iran suffered major military losses; others say Iran’s leadership remained strong.
  • The 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA), negotiated under Obama, is a key reference point in the debate.
  • President Trump claims his military actions weakened Iran’s forces significantly.
  • The ceasefire opens the possibility of broader peace talks between the U.S. and Iran.
Read the Original

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

Green-Card Holder Spent 3 Months in ICE Detention After Over 30 Years in US

Green-Card Holder Spent 3 Months in ICE Detention After Over 30 Years in US

Summary

A federal judge appointed by President Donald Trump ordered the release of Salah Sarsour, a green-card holder and Milwaukee community leader, from ICE detention after three months. The judge said Sarsour’s detention may be illegal because it could have been done in retaliation for his political speech supporting Palestinian rights.

Key Facts

  • Salah Sarsour has held a U.S. green card for nearly 30 years and lives in Wisconsin.
  • The Department of Homeland Security accused him of lying on his green card application from 1998.
  • Sarsour was detained by ICE for three months before a judge ordered his release.
  • The judge ruled that Sarsour’s political speech is protected by the First Amendment.
  • Evidence suggests the government may have detained him as retaliation for his activism.
  • The judge emphasized that the case only concerns the lawfulness of his detention, not if he can be deported.
  • Sarsour is president of the Islamic Society of Milwaukee and has worked to support immigrant and Muslim communities.
  • Supporters gathered in Milwaukee to welcome him home after his release.
Read the Original

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

November fight set for Golden’s vulnerable House seat in Maine

November fight set for Golden’s vulnerable House seat in Maine

Summary

Former Maine Governor Paul LePage will run against State Auditor Matthew Dunlap in the upcoming election for Maine’s open House seat. The race became competitive after Representative Jared Golden decided not to run again.

Key Facts

  • Paul LePage, a Republican and former governor of Maine, is a candidate in the House race.
  • Matthew Dunlap, a Democrat and state auditor, is LePage’s opponent.
  • The election is happening this fall.
  • The seat is currently held by Jared Golden, a Democrat.
  • Jared Golden is not running for reelection, leaving the seat open.
  • The race is seen as a key opportunity for Republicans to gain a House seat in Maine.
  • Decision Desk HQ identified this race as a significant contest in the midterm elections.
Read the Original

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

Here's who qualifies for the Trump adminstration's student loan rate cut

Here's who qualifies for the Trump adminstration's student loan rate cut

Summary

The Education Department announced a temporary 1% interest rate cut on some federal student loans to help borrowers who are having trouble paying. This change applies only to certain borrowers with Direct Loans made after July 1, 2012, who are enrolled or will enroll in automatic payments, and will last until June 30, 2028.

Key Facts

  • The interest rate cut reduces borrowing costs by 1 percentage point temporarily.
  • It targets borrowers with federal Direct Loans issued after July 1, 2012.
  • Borrowers must be enrolled in automatic loan payments or sign up for them to qualify.
  • Currently, 40% of borrowers use automatic payments; the administration wants to increase this.
  • Borrowers already using autopay will get a smaller reduction because they already receive a 0.25% discount.
  • Nearly 9 million borrowers are in default and must fix their status by consolidating loans and applying for a new plan to qualify.
  • The reduction aims to make repayment easier amid the highest loan delinquency rate in six years.
  • The rate cut will end on June 30, 2028.
Read the Original

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

Revolt in small Georgia town appears to ward off ICE detention center

Revolt in small Georgia town appears to ward off ICE detention center

Summary

The Department of Homeland Security has cancelled plans to turn a warehouse in Social Circle, Georgia, into a large immigration detention center. Local leaders and residents opposed the plan due to concerns about resources and community impact. Social Circle became the first small town to sue the federal government over these detention center plans.

Key Facts

  • The federal government bought a warehouse in Social Circle, Georgia, for $128 million, much higher than its $29 million assessed value.
  • The planned detention center could hold up to 10,000 people, tripling the town’s population.
  • Residents worried about strains on water, sewage, police, and ambulance services.
  • Social Circle is in a county where nearly 75% voted for President Trump.
  • The city manager shut off the federal government's water access to the warehouse in February.
  • Local officials contacted state and federal lawmakers, including Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock.
  • Social Circle filed a lawsuit against the federal government over the detention center plans.
  • The cancellation of the detention center was confirmed in late May but not formally announced by the government.
Read the Original

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

Study Finds 20% of Americans Have Unsafe Drinking Water

Study Finds 20% of Americans Have Unsafe Drinking Water

Summary

A recent study shows that 10 to 20 percent of Americans still have drinking water that does not meet safety standards, despite federal efforts since 1974 and large investments. The study found improvements in water quality, but some pollutants not regulated by law remain a problem, especially in low-income communities.

Key Facts

  • The Safe Drinking Water Act, passed in 1974, sets health standards for public tap water and requires compliance.
  • Since 1974, around $2 trillion has been spent on improving drinking water safety in the U.S.
  • The study analyzed 266 million water quality readings from 48 states over several decades.
  • About 10 to 20 percent of Americans receive water that violates safety standards.
  • Pollutants that are regulated have declined faster than those not covered by current laws.
  • Low-income neighborhoods have higher levels of water pollution.
  • Loans from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund help reduce pollution and improve water systems.
  • These loans are linked to lower death rates among older Americans, showing health benefits.
Read the Original

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

Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account