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US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Senate blocks surveillance bill in dispute over Trump’s intelligence pick

Senate blocks surveillance bill in dispute over Trump’s intelligence pick

Summary

The U.S. Senate blocked a bill to extend a government surveillance program because some senators were unhappy with President Trump’s choice of Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence. Pulte, who lacks intelligence experience and is a major Trump supporter, was appointed recently, causing concern among both Democrats and some Republicans.

Key Facts

  • Seven Republican senators joined Democrats to block the extension of a surveillance program called Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).
  • The program lets U.S. intelligence agencies collect communications from foreign targets without a warrant.
  • President Trump appointed Bill Pulte, a major Republican donor with no intelligence background, as acting director of national intelligence.
  • Pulte was chosen shortly after Tulsi Gabbard left the intelligence role.
  • Some senators worry Pulte lacks experience and could politicize the intelligence office.
  • Senate Majority Leader John Thune said they will try again to pass the bill next week but was not very hopeful.
  • The surveillance program is set to expire soon, and failure to extend it raises security concerns.
  • Democrats and some Republicans see Pulte’s appointment as a sign he will follow all of President Trump’s demands, causing bipartisan unease.
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Trump lawyers refuse to reveal financial information to BBC in defamation case

Trump lawyers refuse to reveal financial information to BBC in defamation case

Summary

President Donald Trump is suing the BBC for $10 billion, claiming a BBC documentary edited his speech about the January 6, 2021 Capitol riots to make him look bad. His lawyers refused to give the BBC financial documents about his business, calling the request too broad and unfair. The BBC denies harming his reputation and wants the case dismissed.

Key Facts

  • President Trump filed a $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the BBC over a documentary about the Capitol riots.
  • The BBC documentary combined separate parts of Trump’s speech to suggest he encouraged the crowd to “fight like hell.”
  • The BBC later apologized and removed the edited clip.
  • Trump’s lawyers say the documentary damaged his business and reputation.
  • The BBC asked a US court to dismiss the case, saying it was not shown in the US and the court has no authority.
  • The BBC requested financial records from Trump’s business trust, but his lawyers refused, calling it a “fishing expedition.”
  • Trump’s legal team claims the BBC’s requests are excessive and include unrelated information.
  • The legal dispute includes many document requests, with the BBC providing thousands of pages and Trump’s team producing none so far.
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Man jailed over 2003 Salford rape for which Andrew Malkinson was wrongly imprisoned

Man jailed over 2003 Salford rape for which Andrew Malkinson was wrongly imprisoned

Summary

A man named Paul Quinn was sentenced to 24 years in prison for a 2003 rape in Salford after new DNA evidence linked him to the crime. The victim suffered serious injuries and has lived with lasting trauma, while another man, Andrew Malkinson, was wrongly jailed for 17 years before being cleared in 2023.

Key Facts

  • Paul Quinn was found guilty of a 2003 rape after new forensic tests found his DNA on the victim’s clothing.
  • Quinn strangled the victim unconscious, raped her twice, and caused serious injuries including a fractured cheekbone.
  • The victim, now in her late 50s, still experiences anxiety and fear years after the attack.
  • Andrew Malkinson was wrongly convicted for this crime and spent 17 years in prison before his conviction was overturned in 2023.
  • Quinn had a prior history of sexual offenses and other crimes dating back to his teenage years.
  • Police failed to investigate Quinn earlier, despite his criminal record and proximity to the crime scene.
  • An inquiry and police watchdog are investigating Greater Manchester police for possible misconduct, including destroying evidence and mishandling the original case.
  • Quinn is being checked as a suspect in other serious sexual assaults, including three rapes.
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Actor James Handy fatally stabbed by his girlfriend's son, officials say

Actor James Handy fatally stabbed by his girlfriend's son, officials say

Summary

Actor James Handy, known for roles in "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Jumanji," was killed by stabbing at a home in Los Angeles. His girlfriend's son, Michael Gledhill, was arrested and is suspected of murder.

Key Facts

  • James Handy was an actor featured in movies like "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Jumanji."
  • He was fatally stabbed at a house in the Tarzana neighborhood of Los Angeles.
  • The incident happened on a Wednesday.
  • Michael Gledhill, the son of Handy's girlfriend, was arrested.
  • Gledhill is suspected of murder according to officials.
  • CBS News reported the incident, with Adam Yamaguchi providing details.
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Woman Told Symptoms Are Due to Perimenopause—Then Learns the Truth

Woman Told Symptoms Are Due to Perimenopause—Then Learns the Truth

Summary

A 43-year-old woman from Australia was told her severe symptoms were just perimenopause, but further tests revealed possible endometriosis and other health issues. She shares her story to encourage women to seek medical advice and keep pushing for accurate diagnoses.

Key Facts

  • Pearl was first diagnosed with a hormonal disorder called PCOS (now PMOS) in her twenties.
  • Her menstrual cycles worsened over six years, with very frequent periods recently.
  • Doctors initially said her symptoms were due to perimenopause.
  • After heavy bleeding and passing large blood clots, she had blood tests and ultrasounds.
  • Ultrasound results suggested endometriosis and a twisted right ovary near her uterus.
  • Other issues found include fibroids in her uterus, cysts on her cervix, and fluid buildup in a pelvic area.
  • Ovarian cancer has not been ruled out, but doctors think it is unlikely.
  • She may need a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) in the future.
  • Research shows many women with perimenopause symptoms are misdiagnosed or treated for anxiety or depression.
  • Pearl advises women to trust their instincts and ask for medical tests if symptoms get worse.
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Vanilla Ice says he hopes he’ll perform at DC rally announced by Trump

Vanilla Ice says he hopes he’ll perform at DC rally announced by Trump

Summary

Rapper Vanilla Ice said he hopes to perform at a rally in Washington organized by President Donald Trump. This event is one of several planned for America's 250th birthday celebrations, after other performers pulled out of a related concert.

Key Facts

  • Vanilla Ice is a rapper who expressed interest in performing at President Trump's rally.
  • The rally will take place in Washington, D.C.
  • The event is part of celebrations for the 250th birthday of the United States.
  • The rally was announced after several artists withdrew from a planned concert.
  • The concert was part of an event called the "Great American State Fair."
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Red states push conservative rebrands of Pride month in backlash to LGBTQ+ celebrations

Red states push conservative rebrands of Pride month in backlash to LGBTQ+ celebrations

Summary

Several Republican-led U.S. states have renamed June, traditionally recognized as LGBTQ+ Pride Month, with new titles such as “nuclear family month” and “fidelity month.” These changes reflect a political statement amid ongoing debates over LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, especially as Pride celebrations continue.

Key Facts

  • June is widely known as LGBTQ+ Pride Month, commemorating the 1969 Stonewall uprising that sparked the modern gay rights movement.
  • Republican governors in Indiana and Tennessee renamed June “nuclear family month” to emphasize traditional family structures.
  • Alabama calls June “strong families month,” promoting homes led by a mother and father, with the governor stating the father is head of household.
  • Utah and Arkansas declared June “fidelity month,” focusing on faith, country, and family, without specifying family types.
  • Pride events and celebrations are still planned and will continue despite these state proclamations.
  • These renamings are seen as a counter to LGBTQ+ Pride recognition and take place amid increased conservative efforts against transgender rights and same-sex marriage.
  • Democratic presidents since Bill Clinton have issued annual Pride proclamations; no Republican president has done so.
  • Last year, President Trump’s education department labeled June “Title IX month,” using the designation in investigations involving transgender students.
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Republicans attack Talarico’s masculinity — and it might work

Republicans attack Talarico’s masculinity — and it might work

Summary

The article discusses how some Republicans are criticizing Talarico by questioning his masculinity. It suggests this approach might influence voters because the idea of masculinity has changed over time.

Key Facts

  • Republicans are targeting Talarico’s masculinity in their attacks.
  • The traditional meaning of masculinity included qualities like humility, responsibility, and sacrifice.
  • The current view of masculinity has shifted towards a more aggressive or showy model.
  • The article implies these changes affect political strategies.
  • The focus is on how voters perceive masculinity in politics.
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Graham Platner pushes back against disturbing allegations from women he once dated

Graham Platner pushes back against disturbing allegations from women he once dated

Summary

Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is responding to a report by The New York Times that shares claims about his past behavior in relationships. The report includes statements from women who dated him. Platner is pushing back against these allegations.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is running for Senate in Maine as a Democrat.
  • The New York Times published a report about his past relationships.
  • The report includes allegations from women who dated him.
  • Platner has publicly denied or challenged these allegations.
  • CBS News covered his response to the New York Times story.
  • The issue relates to Platner’s personal conduct in past romantic relationships.
  • This news is part of the political conversation around Platner’s candidacy.
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Gender and Latin American Studies Among Dozens of Courses Axed at Texas A&M

Gender and Latin American Studies Among Dozens of Courses Axed at Texas A&M

Summary

Texas A&M University in East Texas has recently cut several certificate and minor programs, including gender studies, Latin American studies, and philosophy, due to low student enrollment and completion rates. The university says this is part of normal program reviews and to better allocate resources toward more in-demand programs linked to job opportunities.

Key Facts

  • East Texas A&M eliminated graduate certificates in public history, women’s and gender studies, and teaching history.
  • Several undergraduate minors removed include African American studies, Latin American and U.S. Latino studies, philosophy, communication studies, and gender studies.
  • University officials say the cuts reflect low student enrollment and completion over several years.
  • The changes are part of routine academic program reviews, not directly caused by Texas Senate Bill 37.
  • Senate Bill 37, passed in 2025, increases state oversight of Texas public universities.
  • The university is expanding programs linked to workforce needs, such as cybersecurity, data analytics, IT support, project management, and artificial intelligence.
  • Officials emphasize focusing on degrees that students want and skills employers seek.
  • Some observers think the cuts may reflect political pressure related to curriculum debates in Texas, but university leaders describe the changes as normal university management.
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Senate passes massive ICE funding bill, avoids ban on "anti-weaponization" fund

Senate passes massive ICE funding bill, avoids ban on "anti-weaponization" fund

Summary

The Senate passed a large funding bill for ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). During the vote session, they also avoided creating a rule that would ban a Justice Department fund aimed at preventing misuse of government resources.

Key Facts

  • The Senate held an 18-hour-long voting session known as a "vote-a-rama."
  • Republicans supported the bill, which provides a large budget increase for ICE.
  • The bill passed during President Donald Trump’s term.
  • Lawmakers chose not to include a ban on the Justice Department's "anti-weaponization" fund.
  • The "anti-weaponization" fund is meant to stop misuse of government tools or information.
  • The vote was seen as a win for President Trump and his administration’s policies on immigration enforcement.
  • The bill’s approval affects how ICE operates and is funded in the near future.
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Graham Platner faces new allegations just days ahead of Maine primary

Graham Platner faces new allegations just days ahead of Maine primary

Summary

Democrat Graham Platner, who is running for Senate in Maine, is facing new allegations from women who say they witnessed troubling behavior by him. Platner denies these claims. He could face Senator Susan Collins if he wins the upcoming primary.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner is a Democrat running for Senate in Maine.
  • Some women who dated or knew Platner say they saw disturbing behavior.
  • The New York Times reported these new allegations.
  • Platner denies the allegations against him.
  • The Maine primary election is happening soon.
  • If Platner wins the primary, he would compete against Senator Susan Collins.
  • The story was covered by CBS News alongside other news sources.
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‘Hey, Mikie, WTF?’: New Jersey governor facing outrage over attacks on Delaney Hall protesters

‘Hey, Mikie, WTF?’: New Jersey governor facing outrage over attacks on Delaney Hall protesters

Summary

Protesters gathered outside the New Jersey statehouse to demand action from Governor Mikie Sherrill about conditions at Delaney Hall, an immigration detention center where detainees are on a hunger and labor strike. The governor sent state police to control protests, resulting in arrests and injuries, but has not yet met the strikers’ demands.

Key Facts

  • Dozens of protesters rallied in Trenton, New Jersey, against Governor Mikie Sherrill’s handling of Delaney Hall detention center issues.
  • At least 300 detainees at Delaney Hall are on a hunger and labor strike over poor conditions like bad food and lack of medical care.
  • Governor Sherrill deployed state police in riot gear and on horseback to manage protests, which increased tensions and led to arrests and hospitalizations.
  • Some journalists covering the protests were arrested or exposed to teargas by state police.
  • Governor Sherrill has not yet met with detainees but has met with their family members and said she wants to meet the strikers.
  • Protesters also demand the release of detainees and protection of their right to protest peacefully.
  • The governor said violence at protests was caused by people from other states, but this claim is disputed by advocates.
  • The detention center is run by Geo Group, whose staff reportedly used chemical agents against detainees during the strike.
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Trump’s SLAPP-happy reign of terror in the courts

Trump’s SLAPP-happy reign of terror in the courts

Summary

The article discusses concerns about using lawsuits to silence regular people. It mentions that public figures like Elon Musk should not use courts to block others from speaking freely.

Key Facts

  • The article highlights the problem of misusing courts to stop people from speaking.
  • It mentions Elon Musk as an example of someone who should not silence others through legal actions.
  • The focus is on protecting ordinary citizens’ right to free speech.
  • There is no agreement between political parties on many issues, but this point is considered important.
  • The article’s tone suggests a warning against aggressive use of lawsuits to intimidate people.
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Pete Buttigieg, untethered, acts as Trump counterweight for angry Democrats

Pete Buttigieg, untethered, acts as Trump counterweight for angry Democrats

Summary

Pete Buttigieg, who was the Transportation Secretary under President Biden, has become a prominent voice for the Democratic Party before the midterm elections. He is traveling to key election areas, including states that usually vote Republican, and appears often on TV, even on conservative channels like Fox News.

Key Facts

  • Pete Buttigieg served as Transportation Secretary in the Biden administration.
  • He is actively campaigning for Democrats ahead of the midterm elections.
  • Buttigieg visits important battleground districts to support Democratic candidates.
  • He travels to states that typically vote Republican (red states).
  • He frequently appears on various television programs, including Fox News.
  • His role is seen as providing a different Democratic perspective compared to others.
  • Buttigieg is one of the most visible members of the Democratic Party right now.
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YouTuber Jesse Ridgway Terminates Pregnancy Over Down Syndrome, Sparks Debate

YouTuber Jesse Ridgway Terminates Pregnancy Over Down Syndrome, Sparks Debate

Summary

YouTuber Jesse Ridgway and his wife decided to end their pregnancy after learning their baby had a high chance of having Down syndrome, a genetic condition also called Trisomy 21. Ridgway shared their difficult choice on social media, which sparked a strong public reaction and debate about abortion and disability rights.

Key Facts

  • Jesse Ridgway, known online as @McJuggerNuggets, announced he and his wife ended a pregnancy due to a Down syndrome diagnosis.
  • Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) is caused by an extra chromosome 21 and affects physical and mental development.
  • They faced a hard decision after hearing medical risks like heart defects and shorter life expectancy associated with the condition.
  • Ridgway said up to 90% of women in similar situations choose to terminate, a higher rate than he expected.
  • The post was viewed millions of times and triggered strong criticism from anti-abortion activists and others who support people with Down syndrome.
  • Ridgway reported receiving hateful messages and threats after sharing their story, and he emphasized that their decision was personal.
  • Prenatal tests for Down syndrome can detect the condition early in pregnancy and are common in the U.S., with many pregnancies affected by the diagnosis ending in termination.
  • Prenatal screenings are not always 100% accurate and can sometimes give false positive results.
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Man who stabbed ex-partner 17 times at office in Hampshire jailed for 26 years

Man who stabbed ex-partner 17 times at office in Hampshire jailed for 26 years

Summary

Anwar Ashraf was sentenced to 26 years in prison after stabbing his ex-partner 17 times at her office in Hampshire. She survived life-threatening injuries, including a collapsed lung and broken ribs.

Key Facts

  • The attack happened on April 30 last year in Whiteley, Hampshire.
  • Ashraf forced his way into the office and stabbed Carla Skeites 17 times with a kitchen knife.
  • Skeites suffered severe injuries, including a collapsed lung and two broken ribs.
  • A colleague stopped Ashraf during the attack, and police arrested him at the scene.
  • Ashraf had been sending threatening messages and was obsessed with Skeites, wrongly accusing her of cheating.
  • Ashraf was convicted of attempted murder and also pleaded guilty to wounding and possession of a knife.
  • The judge said it was a “miracle” that Skeites survived.
  • Ashraf received an extended sentence: 31 years total, with 26 years in prison and 5 years on license, plus a lifetime restraining order.
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Employers added 172,000 jobs in May, surging past expectations

Employers added 172,000 jobs in May, surging past expectations

Summary

Employers in the United States added 172,000 jobs in May, which was much higher than expected. The unemployment rate stayed the same at 4.3%, and job growth was strong in areas like leisure, hospitality, and local government despite rising inflation.

Key Facts

  • Economists expected 105,000 new jobs in May, but 172,000 jobs were actually added.
  • Payroll gains for March and April were revised upward to 214,000 and 179,000 jobs, respectively.
  • The unemployment rate remained steady at 4.3% from April to May.
  • Leisure and hospitality jobs led growth with 70,000 new positions, much higher than usual.
  • Local government added 55,000 jobs, and health care added 35,000 jobs.
  • Inflation is high due to increased energy prices linked to the war in Iran.
  • Wage growth at 3.4% is lower than the inflation rate, which was 3.8% in April.
  • Strong job growth may influence the Federal Reserve’s decisions on interest rates to fight inflation.
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Senate passes bill to fund ICE for 3 years, without a ban on the "anti-weaponization" fund

Senate passes bill to fund ICE for 3 years, without a ban on the "anti-weaponization" fund

Summary

The U.S. Senate approved a $70 billion bill to fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for three years, covering the rest of President Donald Trump’s current term. The bill did not include a ban on the president’s "anti-weaponization" fund and now moves to the House for consideration.

Key Facts

  • The Senate passed a $70 billion funding package for ICE.
  • The funding covers a three-year period, through the end of President Trump’s term.
  • The bill is part of a reconciliation process, which helps pass budget-related legislation.
  • The bill does not ban President Trump’s "anti-weaponization" fund.
  • The legislation will next be reviewed by the House of Representatives.
  • ICE is a federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement and border security.
  • The "anti-weaponization" fund relates to efforts by the administration to prevent misuse of government resources.
  • The Senate vote advances the bill but it is not yet law until approved by the House and signed by the president.
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Eye Opener: Maine Senate candidate faces more allegations ahead of primary

Eye Opener: Maine Senate candidate faces more allegations ahead of primary

Summary

A Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate from Maine is facing new accusations of bad behavior shortly before the primary election. The article also mentions updates on the stabbing death of actor James Handy.

Key Facts

  • The candidate is running for the U.S. Senate seat in Maine.
  • New allegations of misconduct have been made against this candidate.
  • These developments come just days before the primary election.
  • The primary election will decide who moves forward as the party’s nominee.
  • The article also reports on the stabbing death of actor James Handy.
  • The source of this news is CBS News, from a daily update called Eye Opener.
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