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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Maher weighs in on ’60 Minutes’ shakeup, Pelley ouster: ‘I’m for it’

Maher weighs in on ’60 Minutes’ shakeup, Pelley ouster: ‘I’m for it’

Summary

Bill Maher, a comedian and TV host, said he agrees with the removal of Scott Pelley, a longtime reporter for the news program "60 Minutes." Maher also said President Donald Trump is not responsible for the recent changes at CBS News.

Key Facts

  • Scott Pelley was a longtime correspondent for "60 Minutes."
  • Pelley was recently removed from his position, causing a shakeup at CBS News.
  • Bill Maher supports this change and spoke publicly about it.
  • Maher disagreed with ideas that President Trump caused the CBS News shakeup.
  • Maher discussed these views with Senator Chris Murphy and former guests on his show.
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U.S. launches largest-ever effort to denaturalize citizens accused of fraud

U.S. launches largest-ever effort to denaturalize citizens accused of fraud

Summary

President Donald Trump’s administration is launching the largest effort ever to revoke U.S. citizenship from 17 people accused of immigration fraud or serious crimes. The Justice Department argues these individuals concealed information or lied during their citizenship process, making them ineligible to be naturalized.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration plans to denaturalize 17 U.S. citizens accused of immigration fraud or serious crimes.
  • This is the largest denaturalization campaign in U.S. history.
  • Federal law allows the government to revoke citizenship if someone lied or hid information during their application.
  • Between 1990 and 2017, an average of 11 denaturalization cases were filed each year, showing this effort is a big increase.
  • Some targeted individuals were convicted of violent crimes, including child sex abuse. Others were charged with fraud or using false identities.
  • If citizenship is revoked, individuals lose legal protections and can be deported.
  • Officials said this crackdown is part of a larger immigration enforcement plan by the Trump administration.
  • Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated the Justice Department has zero tolerance for fraud in the citizenship process.
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Graham Platner heads into Maine primary despite high-profile scandals

Graham Platner heads into Maine primary despite high-profile scandals

Summary

Graham Platner is running in the Maine Senate primary even though his campaign faces several scandals. Voters in Maine are discussing his candidacy amid these issues.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a Democratic candidate in Maine’s Senate primary.
  • His campaign has been involved in multiple scandals.
  • Despite the scandals, he continues to campaign for the Senate seat.
  • CBS News journalist Caitlin Huey-Burns spoke with Maine voters about Platner’s campaign.
  • The article focuses on the current state of the Maine Senate primary race.
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Michigan politicians want to ban Chinese-badged cars from even visiting the US

Michigan politicians want to ban Chinese-badged cars from even visiting the US

Summary

Two Michigan lawmakers want to ban Chinese-branded cars from entering the United States, even for short visits. Their proposed law targets cars built or designed in China or by companies with significant Chinese ownership, citing concerns about jobs and national security.

Key Facts

  • Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin and Representative Haley Stevens introduced the Protecting America from Chinese Cars Act.
  • The bill would ban connected cars built or designed in China or by companies with more than 15% Chinese ownership from entering the US.
  • Current rules already impose tariffs and import restrictions on Chinese-made cars and connected vehicles linked to the Chinese government.
  • The bill includes a process for car makers to request permission to import specific vehicles under strict conditions and congressional oversight.
  • Customs and Border Protection would have 90 days to create a list of banned vehicles if the bill passes.
  • Lawmakers argue the ban protects American auto jobs and prevents potential surveillance through data collected by connected cars.
  • Previous related legislation, the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026, aimed to keep Chinese cars out of the US for similar security reasons.
  • The lawmakers consider these vehicles a threat because they can collect location data, video, and map sensitive sites, sending that information back to China.
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Chaos after mass shooting at Ohio festival: "I thought I was going to get hit"

Chaos after mass shooting at Ohio festival: "I thought I was going to get hit"

Summary

At least 12 people were hurt during a mass shooting at the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio. The incident caused chaos and fear among the festival attendees.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio.
  • At least 12 people were injured in the attack.
  • The event was disrupted by the shooting, causing panic.
  • Officials confirmed the number of injured people.
  • CBS News reported on the event and the aftermath.
  • The shooting is under investigation by local authorities.
  • No information about the shooter or motive was provided in this report.
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House Freedom Caucus shifts; Iran and Israel exchange strikes: Join the live discussion

House Freedom Caucus shifts; Iran and Israel exchange strikes: Join the live discussion

Summary

The House Freedom Caucus, a group of conservative House Republicans, is undergoing changes as Speaker Mike Johnson plans to advance a legislative reconciliation process in the House. At the same time, hopes for a longer ceasefire with Iran are decreasing, and some Democrats are concerned about Graham Platner.

Key Facts

  • The House Freedom Caucus is experiencing shifts in its membership or approach.
  • Speaker Mike Johnson (Republican from Louisiana) aims to push reconciliation legislation through the House.
  • Reconciliation is a special process that allows certain budget-related bills to pass with a simple majority.
  • Efforts for a lasting ceasefire between Iran and Israel are weakening.
  • Democratic lawmakers are expressing worry about Graham Platner, though the article does not specify why.
  • The situation is part of broader congressional and foreign policy developments.
  • The article features insights from congressional, defense, and foreign policy reporters.
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Robot Dogs and AI Cameras: How U.S. Security Will Protect World Cup

Robot Dogs and AI Cameras: How U.S. Security Will Protect World Cup

Summary

The U.S., Canada, and Mexico are launching a large security effort for the FIFA World Cup, using new tools like robot dogs, AI cameras, and drone detection. More than 400 law enforcement agencies and private security teams are involved to keep fans and players safe during the tournament.

Key Facts

  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup features 48 teams playing 104 matches in 16 cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
  • Robot dogs made by Boston Dynamics will help U.S. officers inspect suspicious items at some venues.
  • AI-powered cameras and real-time translation on police body cameras will aid communication with international fans.
  • Over 400 law enforcement agencies are coordinating security with federal help, supported by $625 million in FEMA funds.
  • An extra $250 million is being used to track and stop drones, which are banned near stadiums and fan areas.
  • Drone-catching quadcopters capable of shooting nets at unauthorized drones will be deployed.
  • Authorities have not found any credible threats but remain vigilant, especially after a shooting near England’s training base.
  • The tournament is the biggest World Cup ever and takes place amid geopolitical concerns, including the ongoing Iran conflict.
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Why President Trump should endorse Graham Platner in Maine

Why President Trump should endorse Graham Platner in Maine

Summary

The article argues that President Trump should support Graham Platner, a Democrat running for U.S. Senate in Maine. It suggests this endorsement would disrupt Republicans and support candidates who appeal to populist anger.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Maine.
  • The article proposes that President Trump endorse Platner.
  • The suggested reason is to challenge the Republican Party.
  • Populist rage refers to strong anger among ordinary people against elites or established politicians.
  • Endorsement means public support for a candidate by a prominent figure like the president.
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Raman outpaces Pratt in L.A. mayoral race; Calif. governor's matchup takes shape

Raman outpaces Pratt in L.A. mayoral race; Calif. governor's matchup takes shape

Summary

In California’s primary elections, the race for Los Angeles mayor remains very close, with Councilwoman Nithya Raman narrowly surpassing Spencer Pratt for second place behind incumbent Mayor Karen Bass. The contest to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom is also tight, with Xavier Becerra leading and Republican Steve Hilton in second place, as officials continue to count ballots.

Key Facts

  • Nithya Raman edged ahead of Spencer Pratt by less than one percentage point for the second spot in the L.A. mayoral race.
  • Karen Bass is projected to advance to the runoff election for mayor.
  • California's primary system sends the top two candidates, regardless of party, to the general election.
  • Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Health Secretary, is leading the race to replace Governor Gavin Newsom.
  • Steve Hilton, a Republican and former Fox News host, remains in second place but is being closely followed by Democrat Tom Steyer.
  • California counties have up to 30 days to count all provisional and mail-in ballots.
  • Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and can be counted if received within seven days after.
  • Candidates are waiting for final vote counts before confirming who will proceed to the November elections.
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MSG security tight ahead of Trump's Game 3 trip

MSG security tight ahead of Trump's Game 3 trip

Summary

President Donald Trump will attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden. Because of his visit, there will be tight security and longer wait times for fans entering the arena.

Key Facts

  • President Trump plans to appear at Game 3 of the NBA Finals.
  • The game will take place at Madison Square Garden.
  • Security around the arena will be very strict.
  • Fans will face a large safety perimeter to enter the venue.
  • Entry lines are expected to be long due to these security measures.
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Every Faith in Pentagon's New Official List—Ranked by Membership

Every Faith in Pentagon's New Official List—Ranked by Membership

Summary

The U.S. Department of Defense has reduced the number of religious groups it officially tracks for military members from over 200 to 31. This change aims to make managing resources easier for military chaplains but has caused some disagreement among lawmakers about the removed and reclassified faiths.

Key Facts

  • The Pentagon's religious affiliation list went from more than 200 to 31 categories.
  • The change intends to simplify administration and help military chaplains with resource allocation.
  • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is among the 31 religions still tracked.
  • Some lawmakers have opposed the removal of about 180 faith categories.
  • The updated list ranks religions by the percentage of the U.S. population that follows them.
  • Faith groups like Evangelical Christians, Catholics, and non-denominational Christians are on the list.
  • The list includes major religions such as Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.
  • About 29% of U.S. adults are religiously unaffiliated and also have a category.
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Madison Square Garden watch party canceled with Trump attending NBA Finals

Madison Square Garden watch party canceled with Trump attending NBA Finals

Summary

A planned outdoor watch party for Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York City has been canceled. The cancellation came because President Donald Trump will be attending the game, and the U.S. Secret Service needed to secure the area.

Key Facts

  • The watch party outside Madison Square Garden for the NBA Finals was canceled.
  • Game 3 of the NBA Finals is scheduled for Monday.
  • President Donald Trump will be attending the game in person.
  • New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s office announced the cancellation.
  • The U.S. Secret Service requested the cancellation for security reasons.
  • The watch party was initially meant to allow fans to watch the game together outside the arena.
  • No alternative public event outside MSG has been announced.
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Lawmakers sound alarm after Trump picks Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence

Lawmakers sound alarm after Trump picks Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence

Summary

President Donald Trump has chosen Bill Pulte to be the acting director of national intelligence. Many lawmakers from both the Republican and Democratic parties are worried about whether Bill Pulte is qualified for this important national security job.

Key Facts

  • President Trump appointed Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence.
  • The director of national intelligence oversees U.S. intelligence agencies and advises the president.
  • Lawmakers from both major parties are raising concerns about Bill Pulte’s experience and qualifications.
  • Bill Pulte has not previously held a government or intelligence leadership role.
  • The appointment has drawn attention from news organizations like CBS News.
  • Some officials worry this choice may impact national security.
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Six people stabbed in attack at Penn Station in New York

Six people stabbed in attack at Penn Station in New York

Summary

Six people were stabbed at New York's Penn Station on Sunday evening. A suspect believed to be homeless was arrested, and several victims were taken to hospitals with varying injuries. The stabbing happened near Madison Square Garden just before an NBA finals game, but officials say the events are not connected.

Key Facts

  • The stabbing occurred at about 7 p.m. at Penn Station, New York’s busiest train station.
  • Six people were wounded: one seriously, two moderately, two slightly, and one with unknown condition.
  • The suspect, believed to be homeless, is in custody. Authorities have not released their identity or charges yet.
  • The attack happened one day before an NBA finals game near the station, with no reported link to the stabbing.
  • New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed concern and praised police and first responders.
  • This incident is part of several recent attacks at New York public transportation sites, including a fatal push and a machete attack.
  • Increased security was planned for the NBA game, which President Donald Trump was set to attend.
  • Police have not said if the stabbing will change security plans for the upcoming event.
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Trial begins for man accused of sparking LA’s deadly Palisades fire

Trial begins for man accused of sparking LA’s deadly Palisades fire

Summary

The trial of Jonathan Rinderknecht, a 29-year-old man charged with starting a small fire that reignited and caused the deadly Palisades wildfire in Los Angeles, is set to begin. The fire killed 12 people and became the city's most destructive blaze. The court will decide if Rinderknecht knew the small fire could grow into the deadly wildfire.

Key Facts

  • Jonathan Rinderknecht is charged with starting the Lachman fire on New Year’s Day 2025.
  • The initial fire was put out but reignited due to strong winds and dry conditions.
  • The wildfire killed 12 people and destroyed homes and land.
  • Rinderknecht faces three felony charges and could get 5 to 45 years in prison if convicted.
  • He has been in federal custody since October 2025.
  • Prosecutors say Rinderknecht was upset on New Year’s Eve and allegedly talked about resentment toward wealthy people.
  • The trial judge has excluded some evidence, including claims the fire department failed to fully put out the first fire.
  • Defense lawyers argue Rinderknecht is being unfairly blamed and wanted to show firefighting mistakes but were stopped from using some evidence.
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Karen Bass slams Nithya Raman over homeless encampments in LA mayoral race

Karen Bass slams Nithya Raman over homeless encampments in LA mayoral race

Summary

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass criticized her opponent Nithya Raman after Raman advanced to the run-off election for mayor. Bass said Raman has not done enough to reduce homeless camps near schools in Los Angeles.

Key Facts

  • Nithya Raman is a progressive candidate for Los Angeles mayor.
  • Raman advanced to the run-off election against Mayor Karen Bass.
  • Raman surpassed Spencer Pratt, a Republican and former reality TV star.
  • Karen Bass said Raman has not sufficiently addressed homeless camps near schools.
  • The campaign conflict centers on how to handle homelessness in Los Angeles.
  • The run-off election will decide who becomes the next mayor of Los Angeles.
  • Homeless encampments near schools are a major concern in the race.
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White South African refugees fall foul of Republican driving rules in US midwest

White South African refugees fall foul of Republican driving rules in US midwest

Summary

Since February last year, over 6,300 white South Africans and other minorities have come to the US under a refugee program announced by President Trump. Many of these refugees, especially in Ohio, face tough new driving rules requiring expensive lessons and many hours of practice, making it hard for them to drive and settle.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration created a refugee program for white South Africans and other minorities in February last year.
  • Around 6,300 people have arrived in the US under this program so far.
  • Ohio has accepted 206 Afrikaner refugees, but state rules now require 8 hours of driving school, 24 hours of classes, and 50 hours of practice before a driving test.
  • These driving requirements cost about $500 and can take up to nine months to complete.
  • Due to these rules, about half of the South African refugees in Ohio have moved to other states.
  • The federal refugee cash assistance program was cut from 12 months to 4 months under the Trump administration.
  • Some refugees say they face difficulties with transportation for basic needs like food.
  • Ohio officials say they have received no reports of financial hardship from these refugees.
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Graham Platner pushes back against latest allegations ahead of Maine primary

Graham Platner pushes back against latest allegations ahead of Maine primary

Summary

Graham Platner, a Democrat from Maine, denied recent accusations made by a woman who was his former girlfriend. He is expected to win the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate on Tuesday, preparing to run against Republican Senator Susan Collins in an important election.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a Democratic candidate in Maine.
  • He faces allegations from a former girlfriend.
  • Platner has denied these allegations.
  • The primary election is scheduled for Tuesday.
  • Winning the primary would make Platner the Democratic candidate for Senate.
  • He would run against Republican Senator Susan Collins.
  • This Senate race could affect the overall balance of power in Washington.
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Trump repeats claim that California election was rigged – US politics live

Trump repeats claim that California election was rigged – US politics live

Summary

President Donald Trump repeated his claim that the California election is rigged, sharing a post that questioned the fairness of California elections. This follows his walkout from an NBC interview where he made unproven claims of cheating in California and the 2020 presidential election.

Key Facts

  • President Trump posted a screenshot from Congressman Abe Hamadeh on Truth Social, which claimed California cannot run free and fair elections.
  • The post referred to data showing Nithya Raman projected to win a spot in the Los Angeles mayor primary election.
  • Trump wrote, “No way this could have happened. Rigged Election!” in response to the data.
  • On Sunday, Trump left an NBC interview after clashing with the host over his election cheating claims.
  • Interviewer Kristen Welker explained delayed ballot counting was normal in California, but Trump disagreed and called her names.
  • Trump took off his microphone and ended the interview abruptly.
  • Trump is scheduled to attend a campaign rally in New Jersey and then a New York Knicks basketball game with heightened security.
  • He also claimed Iran’s military had been “virtually decapitated” amid the ongoing Middle East conflict and urged Iran and Israel to stop fighting.
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Hawley blasts 4 Republicans who voted to reject adding voter ID bill to reconciliation package

Hawley blasts 4 Republicans who voted to reject adding voter ID bill to reconciliation package

Summary

Senator Josh Hawley criticized four Republican senators for voting against adding the SAVE America Act, a voter ID law, to a $70 billion budget plan. The four senators who voted no were Susan Collins, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, and one more unnamed senator.

Key Facts

  • Sen. Josh Hawley is from Missouri and is a Republican.
  • The vote was on adding the SAVE America Act to a budget package worth $70 billion.
  • The SAVE America Act includes a voter ID law.
  • Four Republican senators voted against this motion.
  • Senators Susan Collins (Maine), Mitch McConnell (Kentucky), and Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) are confirmed part of the group voting no.
  • Hawley expressed confusion over why Republicans would oppose the voter ID law.
  • The budget reconciliation package involves government spending and policy decisions.
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