US News Live: USA, Mexico, and Canada automatically qualify for 2026 World Cup as co-hosts

The number of federal student loan borrowers in the USA with payments paused through forbearance or deferment has doubled since last year, according to a report in The Hill. In the third quarter of 2025, more than a quarter of the nation's 40 million federal borrowers had their repayment progress paused. Higher education analyst Mark Kantrowitz reported that 10.3 million of these borrowers were in forbearance during this period.

The United States, along with co-hosts Mexico and Canada, has been granted automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as per a report in AP. This decision aligns with FIFA's standard practice of awarding host nations a direct entry into the tournament. As a result, the US men's national team will bypass the standard continental qualification process that the other 45 participating teams must navigate through regional competitions and intercontinental playoffs.

An individual was found to be living in the crawl space of a home in Oregon without the knowledge or permission of the property owner, as per a report in BBC News. The discovery was made after the owner investigated "strange noises" that they had previously heard coming from that part of the house.

On the first anniversary of her death, the family of Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi, an American-Turkish citizen, is demanding the US government investigate her killing, as per a report in The Guardian. Eygi, 26, was reportedly shot and killed by an Israeli sniper on September 6, 2024, in the occupied West Bank, where she had traveled to volunteer with Palestinian communities. Her family reports that one year later, the US has not initiated an investigation into the death of its citizen and they are seeking accountability.

Senator Bernie Sanders and New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani are holding a rally in New York City to protest against oligarchy and the influence of billionaires, according to a report in Fox News. The event focuses on challenging what they describe as the significant political power held by a small group of wealthy elites. Their joint appearance highlights a push against corporate and billionaire influence in city and national politics.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is tightening its oversight of imported bulk ingredients for GLP-1 drugs, which are used for treating diabetes and weight loss, according to a report in The Daily Wire. The agency has raised concerns that many of these imported ingredients may be adulterated and pose a safety risk to the public. This regulatory action is part of a broader crackdown by the FDA on unapproved compounded versions of these drugs, which have become more common as they fill a market gap created by shortages of officially approved medications.

A fact-check of a recent claim by President Donald Trump that USA workers have gained $500 in wages this year has concluded the statement is "half true," as per a report in Al Jazeera. The analysis highlights the critical distinction between nominal and real wage growth. While nominal wages, the raw dollar amount, may have increased, the report clarifies that this gain is significantly diminished when adjusted for inflation, meaning the actual purchasing power for workers has not increased by the claimed amount.

Settlement talks between the Trump administration and Harvard University regarding the school's admissions practices have stalled, The New York Times says in a report. The pause in negotiations is reportedly due to an emerging disagreement within the administration, with some officials arguing that the current settlement framework is too lenient on Harvard. These discussions are connected to a long-standing Department of Justice investigation into claims that the university's race-conscious admissions policies are discriminatory.

The Harlem Hellfighters, an all-black infantry regiment from World War I, have been honored with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award bestowed by the U.S. Congress, according to a report in NPR. Officially the 369th Infantry Regiment, the unit was renowned for its valor and spent more time in combat—191 days—than any other American unit during the war. The award serves to recognize the soldiers' distinguished service and historical significance.

The U.S. government is taking an equity stake in Intel, a rare move aimed at securing the domestic supply of advanced semiconductors and advancing American leadership in artificial intelligence technology, as per a report in NPR. This investment is a direct outcome of the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act and is driven by the strategic technology competition with China. While the government has taken stakes in private companies during past economic crises, this action is distinct as it is a targeted industrial policy investment to ensure national security rather than a response to a broad economic downturn. The move carries financial and market risks but is seen by security strategists as essential for maintaining a technological edge.

An Indiana man who shares the same name as Meta's founder is suing the company over the repeated suspension of his social media accounts, according to a report in BBC. The lawsuit alleges that his Facebook and other social media profiles are frequently shut down without justification. He claims these repeated suspensions have negatively impacted his business, highlighting the challenges faced due to his name being identical to that of the well-known tech CEO.

The Los Angeles Chargers secured a 27-21 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL's season-opening game in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Friday night, according to a report in The Guardian. Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert was instrumental in the win, passing for 318 yards and three touchdowns. Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh praised Herbert's performance, highlighting his accuracy and overall toughness during the game.

President Donald Trump has threatened to send national guard troops to Portland, Oregon, after apparently being misled by a television report that used old footage from 2020, as per a report in The Guardian. Trump told reporters he was unaware that protests were "continuing to go on" and incorrectly claimed he had seen recent video evidence of "the destruction of the city." The report clarifies that the video footage was actually from the George Floyd demonstrations in 2020, not from the smaller anti-ICE rallies taking place at the time of his statement.

The traditional Chinese tile game of mahjong is experiencing a surge in popularity among a new, younger generation in San Francisco, with pop-up parties being hosted in local bars and restaurants, AP says in a report. The trend was highlighted by Ryan Lee, a Chinese American who began hosting mahjong nights that grew from his apartment to public venues. This resurgence is introducing the game, which was invented in 19th century China, to a wider audience in social settings across the city.

The US House Oversight Committee has released new surveillance footage recorded in the hours before convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's death in federal custody, according to a report in BBC. This release is part of the committee's ongoing investigation into the circumstances of his death, which was officially ruled a suicide in August 2019. The footage reportedly draws attention to a 'missing minute' of recording, renewing scrutiny of the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Prisons regarding security failures at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York where Epstein was held.

Farmers in the USA are facing significant economic stress caused by a combination of low prices for their crops and high input costs, The Washington Times said in a report. The low prices are a result of large agricultural yields creating an oversupply in the market. Simultaneously, the cost of fertilizer remains high, a situation linked to the lingering effects of tariffs enacted during Donald Trump's first presidential term. This combination of reduced income and increased expenses is creating financial strain for farmers.

Republican state lawmakers in Maryland, attending a State Freedom Caucus Network summit, have formally challenged the Democratic supermajority in the state legislature to redraw Maryland's congressional map, The Washington Times said in a report. The challenge addresses the current district lines, which have been criticized as an example of partisan gerrymandering that heavily favors the Democratic party.

Federal prosecutors in the USA have successfully dismantled a major human smuggling operation that facilitated the illegal entry of thousands of Cuban migrants, The Washington Times said in a report. The criminal organization reportedly charged its clients fees as high as $40,000. According to the prosecutors, the smugglers also provided instructions to the migrants on how to deceive border authorities and submit fraudulent asylum claims to secure more permanent status in the country.

President Donald Trump has signed the 200th executive order of his second term, an action that sets a pace described as unprecedented in modern history, according to a report in The Washington Times.

A health department has awarded a no-bid contract to a firm allied with President Donald Trump to conduct a public poll on vaccines, The New York Times said in a report. The contract was published amid a broader public debate, influenced by figures such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., concerning potential shifts in national health policy away from the use of certain vaccines. The report highlights that the contract was awarded without a competitive bidding process.

Job seekers in the USA are encountering a more difficult employment landscape compared to previous years, according to a report in The Hill. The favorable hiring conditions experienced during the pandemic, which were characterized by plentiful jobs and negotiable salaries, have ended. Data from the jobs site Indeed indicates that wage growth is now slowing for the first time in several years, contributing to a more challenging environment for those looking for new employment.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams pushed back against rumors that he would drop out of the 2025 mayoral race, vowing to defeat his opponents during a news conference on Friday, as per a report in Fox News. Adams specifically criticized New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani and former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, referring to them as "spoiled brats." The comments were made as Adams defended his re-election campaign amid speculation about his political future.

Priscilla Presley has refuted allegations made in an amended lawsuit by former business partners who are seeking $50 million in damages, Fox News says in a report. The legal filing accuses Presley of contributing to Elvis Presley's death by allegedly applying financial pressure on the late singer. In response to the claims, Priscilla Presley has denied any involvement in the circumstances surrounding his death as described in the lawsuit.

Bryan Kohberger has been sentenced to four life sentences after he pleaded guilty to killing four University of Idaho students, as per a report in Fox News. According to investigators, DNA evidence left at the crime scene was crucial in fast-tracking his identification and capture, leading to the resolution of the high-profile case.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy left the NFL season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil with a shoulder injury, Fox News said in a report. The injury occurred following a collision with his teammate, Travis Kelce. The game, part of the NFL's international series, was the first of the regular season for both US teams.

US special forces killed several North Korean civilians during what is being described as a botched mission, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The report states the incident occurred when the US Navy SEALs accidentally encountered the civilians, who were identified as fishermen diving for shellfish, indicating the deaths were unintentional.

The latest jobs report for the USA shows a moderation in the hiring pace for the healthcare sector, according to a report in The Hill. This development suggests a potential cooling in a sector that has been a significant driver of employment growth in recent years. The slowdown is noted after a period of robust hiring, including a surge following the COVID-19 pandemic. The report clarifies that a 'cooling' refers to a slower rate of job creation rather than a net loss of jobs in the industry.

The US Department of Justice is holding early-stage internal meetings to discuss potential firearm restrictions for transgender individuals, according to a report in Fox News. These discussions are in a preliminary phase, and no concrete proposals have been formulated or presented at this time.

Washington D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb has filed a lawsuit challenging the legality of the National Guard's deployment during the 2020 protests, an action taken during President Donald Trump's first term, according to a report in NPR. The lawsuit argues that using armed soldiers for domestic policing of American citizens is unlawful. The legal action seeks a court ruling to declare the 2020 deployment unlawful and to prevent similar federal actions in the nation's capital in the future.

Health officials in Maine are investigating three active tuberculosis cases discovered in the Greater Portland area, according to a report in Fox News. Authorities are working to test contacts of the infected patients for the bacterial disease. The report notes these local cases come as the incidence of tuberculosis has been ticking up across the country.

Former CDC official Demetre Daskalakis has stated that presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. lied to senators when he claimed to have consulted with CDC experts on vaccine policy, as per a report in The Hill. Daskalakis's statement directly contradicts assertions made by Kennedy Jr., an independent presidential candidate, during testimony before lawmakers. The dispute focuses on whether Kennedy Jr. received briefings from federal health agency experts as he claimed.

House Republicans on Friday introduced a package of 14 bills designed to overhaul Washington, D.C.'s criminal justice policies, as per a report in The Hill. The proposed legislation is part of President Donald Trump's stated crime crackdown in the capital and aims to reduce the local government's autonomy. The bills seek to implement harsher punishments for both youth and violent offenders in the district.

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo met with Rev. Al Sharpton over breakfast to discuss the New York City mayoral race, as per a report in Fox News. The meeting comes as Cuomo is reportedly trailing Zohran Mamdani, a progressive Democratic member of the New York State Assembly, who is considered a front-runner for the party's nomination. Cuomo's meeting with the influential civil rights leader occurs in the context of a potential political comeback, following his resignation from the governorship in August 2021.

New family-friendly security lanes are appearing at airports across the USA, designed to alleviate stress for people traveling with children, as per a report in NPR. This initiative provides families with extra time and support to navigate the screening process. While the fundamental security protocols remain unchanged, these dedicated lanes offer a more accommodating environment, allowing for a slower pace without the pressure of holding up other travelers.

Shares in Kenvue, the company that makes Tylenol, declined following a report that independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. intends to suggest a link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism, according to a report in BBC. In response to the market reaction, Kenvue issued a statement asserting that "there is no causal link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism." The scientific consensus does not currently support such a connection, and the development aligns with RFK Jr.'s established campaign position of challenging pharmaceutical companies and mainstream health guidance.

President Donald Trump's administration has decided to terminate several European security programs designed to counter Russia, a move that affects hundreds of millions of dollars in U.S. military aid, according to a report in The Washington Post. The decision has reportedly caused alarm among NATO allies and has been met with opposition from U.S. lawmakers who support the transatlantic alliance. Many of these programs were established or enhanced following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 to bolster deterrence and military readiness in Eastern Europe.

The Kansas City Chiefs played their season-opening game against the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, Brazil, drawing a majority of the over 47,000 fans in attendance at NeoQuimica Arena, as per a report in AP. The event highlighted the NFL team's growing fan base in the country. However, the report also noted that some local supporters expressed frustration that Taylor Swift, whose attendance had been anticipated, was not present at the game.

The Chicago Sky has suspended player Angel Reese for the first half of Sunday's game against Las Vegas for making comments considered 'detrimental to the team', according to a report in The Guardian. Reese, who has since apologized to her teammates, had already missed Friday's game against Indiana due to a separate, mandatory one-game suspension from the WNBA for accumulating her eighth technical foul of the season.

President Donald Trump has endorsed U.S. Representative Ashley Hinson (R-IA) for a future Iowa Senate race, The Hill said in a report. The endorsement is widely understood to be for the seat currently held by Senator Chuck Grassley, whose term expires in January 2029, and not for Senator Joni Ernst's seat. Factual clarifications indicate that, contrary to initial reporting, Senator Ernst has not announced her retirement. Hinson currently serves as the U.S. Representative for Iowa's 2nd congressional district.

President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he will be sending the National Guard to New Orleans, confirming earlier suggestions that the city would be the next target in his administration's federal crime crackdown, according to a report in The Hill. During an event, Trump stated, "We're going to come into New Orleans, and we're going to make that place so safe."

US President Donald Trump commented on the growing partnership between India, Russia, and China following a summit of the nations' leaders earlier in the week, according to a report in The Hill. In a post on the Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump stated, “Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest, China.” He also added, “May they have a long and prosperous future together!”

A judge has ordered the Trump administration to release $2.2 billion in federal funds to Harvard University, according to a report in The Hill. The funds, which had been frozen, stem from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) established under the 2020 CARES Act. The ruling resolves a dispute where the administration had argued that wealthy institutions like Harvard did not need the emergency aid, which was appropriated by Congress in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following their defeat in the women's doubles final at the U.S. Open, tennis player Taylor Townsend arrived at her final post-match news conference on Friday with the tournament's signature drink, the Honey Deuce, according to a report in AP. Townsend, whose top-ranked doubles team with Katerina Siniakova lost to Gabriela Dabrowski and Erin Routliffe, brought the cocktail into the press room and stated it was "for the media" before beginning to take questions.

Gabriela Dabrowski and Erin Routliffe have won the US Open women's doubles title for the second time in three years, as per a report in AP. The third-seeded pair defeated the top-ranked team of American Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova with a 6-4, 6-4 victory in the final at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York. The win denied Townsend what would have been her third Grand Slam championship.

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a lawsuit on Thursday against the city of Boston and its mayor, Michelle Wu, challenging the city's sanctuary law, The Hill said in a report. The lawsuit contends that the policy is illegal and obstructs federal immigration enforcement by preventing local cooperation. According to the DOJ's complaint, the law results in the release of "dangerous criminals" who are subject to deportation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The filing also noted that, as a past event, the Boston Police Department had been a "cooperative partner" with federal immigration efforts in 2015.

President Donald Trump is exploring potential ways for the federal government to assume control of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in Lower Manhattan, according to a report in The New York Times. The exact mechanism for how the federal government would take control of the site, which is currently operated by a private, non-profit foundation, remains unclear. The report notes that as a candidate, Mr. Trump had previously suggested potential options for such a move.

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has ordered the deployment of 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico to help combat Latin American drug cartels, according to a report in The Hill. This military action comes shortly after an incident in which two Venezuelan military aircraft flew in close proximity to a U.S. Navy vessel operating in the same region. The deployment is intended to enhance U.S. capabilities in the fight against cartel trafficking.

Aryna Sabalenka will compete against American Amanda Anisimova in the women's singles final of the US Open, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The final marks Sabalenka's third Grand Slam championship match in 2025, following two previous losses this year. The article provides details on the match start time and player statistics, noting that Anisimova is in the final during a comeback season.

Senator Maria Cantwell, a Democrat from Washington, has warned that the United States is vulnerable to the next pandemic, attributing this risk to the leadership of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., according to a report in NPR. Cantwell accused Kennedy of "not following the science," a commitment she said he made during his confirmation hearings earlier in 2025. In her criticism, she labeled the Health Secretary a "charlatan," expressing concern over the nation's public health direction and preparedness for future health crises.

In response to rising threats against U.S. lawmakers, 600 officers participated in a large-scale riot and protection training exercise in Maryland on Friday, according to a report in AP. The training, held at a U.S. Secret Service complex, took place in the context of the 'post-Jan. 6 era' and reports of threats against lawmakers approaching record highs. Officers in full riot gear practiced scenarios that included extracting a lawmaker from a vehicle being pounded on by protesters and isolating and arresting an individual spotted with a gun in a crowd.

A U.S. federal judge has blocked an attempt by the Trump administration's Department of Homeland Security to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for hundreds of thousands of people from Venezuela and Haiti, as per a report in The Hill. U.S. District Judge Edward Chen ruled on Friday that the effort to revoke the TPS extensions, which were put in place by the previous administration, was "arbitrary and capricious" and exceeded the department's legal authority. The ruling allows the affected individuals to retain their legal status, work authorization, and protection from deportation.

The United States has officially designated the Ecuadorian criminal groups Los Lobos and R7 as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), according to a report in CNN. The action follows a surge in violence in Ecuador, which prompted the country's government to declare an "internal armed conflict" against criminal gangs in January 2024. The FTO designation imposes severe legal and financial consequences on the groups, including asset freezes and criminalizing any material support provided to them by US citizens. This move is part of a broader US strategy to combat transnational organized crime and deepens security cooperation between the USA and Ecuador.

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has reported an increase in human smuggling along the US-Canada border, CNN says in a report. While the absolute number of encounters in the north remains substantially lower than at the US-Mexico border, the rise is significant. This trend is viewed in the context of heightened enforcement on the southern border, which may divert smugglers to alternative, less scrutinized routes. The vast and diverse terrain of the northern border presents ongoing monitoring challenges for law enforcement agencies.

The United States is working with Ecuador to establish an agreement that would allow for asylum seekers to be sent to the South American country, according to a report in CNN. The discussions are part of a broader US strategy to manage regional migration flows and address the number of encounters at its southern border. This approach involves creating partnerships with other nations in the region to handle asylum processing outside of US territory.

Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett has dismissed concerns that the United States is facing a constitutional crisis, CNN says in a report. Her comments come amid heightened political debate and declining public trust in the judiciary, fueled by recent landmark Supreme Court decisions on contentious issues and calls from some politicians for judicial reform. In her remarks, Barrett defended the court's institutional integrity against claims that it has become overly politicized.

A fact-check has determined that President Donald Trump's recent claim that Washington, D.C., now has 'no crime at all' is false, according to a report in CNN. The report clarifies that the statement is factually incorrect, as the city continues to experience various types of crime, including both violent and property offenses. Publicly available crime statistics from official sources like the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department consistently document ongoing criminal activity, directly contradicting the President's assertion.

The administration of President Donald Trump is weighing military strikes targeting drug cartels operating within Venezuela, according to a report in CNN. Citing unnamed sources, the report indicates the potential action is being considered as part of a broader pressure campaign against the government of Nicolás Maduro. This move would mark a significant escalation of the existing US policy toward Venezuela.

Texas State Representative James Talarico will launch a Democratic bid for the US Senate, according to a report in CNN. The information, based on unnamed sources, indicates the Austin-area progressive will seek to challenge incumbent Republican Senator Ted Cruz. Talarico's potential entry into the race follows a high-profile but unsuccessful 2018 challenge to Cruz by former Rep. Beto O'Rourke, which drew national attention to the statewide contest in Texas.

A bipartisan bill has been introduced in the US House of Representatives aiming to ban members of Congress from trading individual stocks, as per a report in NPR. The proposed legislation seeks to address public concerns over potential conflicts of interest and insider trading among lawmakers, which proponents argue are not sufficiently covered by current laws. This move follows years of controversy and public polling showing strong support for such a ban, and it represents a significant step beyond the 2012 STOCK Act, which only mandated disclosure of trades rather than prohibiting them.

President Donald Trump is urging European nations to implement a full ban on purchasing Russian oil and to simultaneously increase pressure on China, according to a report in CNN. The administration's push is being presented as a strategy aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This policy calls for allies to leverage economic measures against both Russia, to cut off a key source of its war funding, and China, to discourage its support for Moscow's war effort.

The Social Security Administration's (SSA) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has opened an investigation into customer service issues, specifically focusing on long telephone wait times, according to a report in CNN. The OIG, which serves as an independent oversight body tasked with promoting efficiency and preventing waste within the agency, will examine the causes and extent of the service challenges. These issues have been a recurring concern for the SSA, which administers retirement, disability, and survivor benefits for millions of Americans.

President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order empowering the State Department to impose sanctions and other punitive measures on governments that hold American citizens without justification, The Washington Post said in a report. The action is aimed at deterring the arbitrary detention of U.S. nationals abroad. The punitive measures authorized by the order can include financial sanctions, such as asset freezes and travel bans, providing the U.S. government with additional tools to secure the release of its citizens.

Private communications from Fox News executives have been revealed, showing they described host Jeanine Pirro as a "reckless maniac," according to a report in NPR. The comments, which are believed to have emerged from legal discovery documents, expose internal criticism of the on-air personality by her own employers. The revelations pertain to Pirro's role as a media host for the network, not her former position as a U.S. Attorney.

President Donald Trump has commented on the New York City mayoral race, labeling political figure Mamdani a "communist," according to a report in The Hill. Trump appeared resigned to incumbent Mayor Eric Adams's decision to continue his independent reelection bid, stating Adams is "free to do what he wants." The article notes these remarks come despite calls from the White House for a one-on-one race that would have involved former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

A Republican-led effort to formally censure Rep. LaMonica McIver of New Jersey did not pass in the House of Representatives, NPR said in a report. The motion failed to secure enough votes after five Republican members joined with Democrats to block the measure. Censure is a formal, public condemnation of a member of Congress, and this outcome prevents an official rebuke from being added to McIver's record.

Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein, alongside a bipartisan group of lawmakers, held a press conference demanding the full release of government files concerning his sex trafficking network, according to a report in NPR. The call for transparency aims to expose the full extent of the operation and hold all involved individuals accountable. This public push follows the unsealing of related court documents in early 2024 and puts pressure on federal agencies, such as the Department of Justice and the FBI, to declassify and release their records on the long-running investigation.

State and local leaders in Maryland, including Governor Wes Moore, have publicly rejected President Donald Trump's suggestion of deploying the National Guard to curb gun violence in Baltimore, according to a report in AP. During an event in a Baltimore neighborhood on Friday, Moore asserted that local efforts are successfully reducing violence, pointing to sustained declines in the city's homicide rate. The governor stated that federal military intervention is not needed and that the leaders' position represents a show of solidarity and confidence in their current strategies.

A U.S. magistrate judge has issued a $7,500 sanction against a lawyer for submitting a legal brief that contained citations to nonexistent court cases, as per a report in Reason Magazine. In the ruling, the judge stressed that the obligation to perform 'cite-checking'—the process of verifying that legal citations are accurate and still represent 'good law'—is a fundamental and long-standing duty within the legal profession. The penalty underscores the judiciary's expectation of factual accuracy and due diligence in all legal filings presented to the court.

The delivery of new presidential aircraft is delayed by years, prompting a review of the aging Air Force One fleet and consideration of a Qatari-owned jet as an alternative, according to a report in Fox News. The current planes are facing operational challenges due to their age, and Boeing, the contractor for the new aircraft, has pushed back the delivery schedule significantly. This has led to the exploration of interim solutions, including the potential use of a Qatari aircraft to supplement the executive fleet.

International small businesses, including many Etsy sellers, are experiencing significant financial and logistical challenges when selling to the U.S. market, according to a report in NPR. These difficulties stem from a combination of U.S. tariffs and increased scrutiny or proposed changes to the "de minimis" rule, which historically allowed goods valued under $800 to enter the country exempt from duties and taxes. This policy change, coupled with existing tariffs, has made cross-border commerce more expensive and complex, eroding what many foreign sellers once considered an easy extension of their domestic market.

Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY) alleged he has faced threats and retribution from a 'pressure campaign' by the Trump White House, HuffPost says in a report. During an interview on CNN, Massie stated the pushback was a result of his persistent efforts to secure the public release of court documents connected to Jeffrey Epstein and his associates, and detailed the retribution he has already faced.

An examination of court records and other data reveals details about who was arrested and the charges filed during the increased federal law enforcement presence in Washington D.C. amid the 2020 protests, according to a report in NPR. The analysis focuses on the federal surge that occurred during the first presidential term of Donald Trump, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal outcomes for those who were arrested by federal agents during that period of significant civil unrest in the nation's capital.

The president of Northwestern University has announced his resignation amid significant political pressure, HuffPost says in a report. The departure follows heated criticism from House Republicans over the university's handling of pro-Palestinian campus protests and encampments related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. This event is part of a broader trend of federal lawmakers scrutinizing how university leaders are managing issues of free speech, public order, and alleged antisemitism on campuses across the USA.

A bill has passed both chambers of the Texas Legislature and has been sent to Governor Greg Abbott, which would allow private citizens to sue out-of-state abortion pill providers for a minimum of $100,000, according to a report in HuffPost. The legislation specifically targets providers, including those using telehealth, who mail medication abortion drugs to residents in Texas. The bill employs a private enforcement mechanism, similar to the state's 2021 'Heartbeat Bill' (SB8), empowering individuals rather than the state to file lawsuits against those who allegedly violate the law.

In a forthcoming memoir, Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett reflects on what she describes as an "awkward" start on the court and discusses her colleagues, according to a report in Fox News. The book also contains her defense of the court's use of its emergency "shadow docket," particularly in cases involving rulings that favored policies from Donald Trump's first presidential term (2017-2021). Barrett's memoir touches on her highly contentious confirmation process which took place in 2020, just prior to the presidential election.

The Powerball jackpot has reached an estimated $1.8 billion for its drawing on Saturday, but the winner's identity might not stay secret due to varying state laws on lottery winner anonymity, AP says in a report. While some states allow winners to remain anonymous, many have a long history of public disclosure requirements. This policy has led to challenges for past winners, such as Timothy Schultz, who won a $29 million jackpot in Iowa in 1999. Schultz later expressed that he felt the negative consequences of the fame that followed the mandatory disclosure of his identity.

A notable generational trend is emerging in US politics, with more than 20 Democrats under the age of 40 currently vying for congressional seats, as per a report in NPR. In contrast, the Republican party has only one candidate in the same age bracket seeking a position in Congress. The article notes that young Republicans suggest this difference indicates a strategy of rallying behind the current party structure, whereas the high number of young Democratic challengers points to a desire to unseat more established members of their own party.

President Donald Trump commented on the announcement that Representative Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) will retire from Congress at the end of his term, according to a report in The Hill. In a social media post on Friday, Trump referred to Nadler as "one of the most disgusting Congressmen in USA History" and stated that the New York Democrat was "at long last, calling it ‘quits’."

New York City Mayor Eric Adams affirmed on Friday that he is remaining in the race for reelection, dismissing reports that he was considering a position in the Trump administration, as per a report in AP. During a press conference, Adams stated his commitment to the campaign and positioned himself as the only candidate capable of defeating Zohran Mamdani, a prominent progressive state assemblyman and potential primary challenger.

President Donald Trump on Friday confirmed that his shortlist of candidates to lead the Federal Reserve includes Kevin Hassett, Kevin Warsh, and Christopher Waller, according to a report in The Hill. Trump affirmed the names when asked by a Bloomberg News reporter about his top three choices to replace current Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.

British politician Nigel Farage appeared before a US congressional hearing on censorship where he clashed with Democratic members, according to a report in The Guardian. Maryland Democrat Jamie Raskin accused the Reform UK leader of ingratiating himself with President Donald Trump and tech companies. Farage also faced criticism for his past remarks concerning Vladimir Putin and was questioned on his commitment to free speech, with Democrats citing instances where journalists from publications deemed hostile were reportedly banned from Reform UK events.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a "very detailed" phone conversation on Thursday about achieving "maximum protection" for Ukraine's skies, according to a report in The Hill. The discussion comes as Ukraine continues to face aerial bombardment from Russia and with little recent progress toward peace negotiations.

A promised renaissance in US manufacturing appears to be moving in reverse as factory payrolls continue to shrink, according to a report in Bloomberg. The decline in manufacturing jobs suggests that the sector's growth has stalled, contrary to pledges made by President Donald Trump to create a boom in American factory employment.

First Lady Melania Trump made a public statement on September 4, warning that 'robots are here,' according to a report in BBC News. The source characterized the event as a rare public outing for the first lady.

The bodies of two tourists have been found a day apart after they fell from a glacier in southeastern Alaska, according to a report in The Hill. The two separate fatal incidents occurred within a matter of days at the Alaskan glacier.

A partisan divide over vaccine policy is emerging in the USA, as some states are moving to expand access beyond federal restrictions set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to a report in The Hill. This defiance of federal guidance is creating a 'patchwork of policies' where vaccine eligibility and availability could vary significantly by state, highlighting a growing tension between state and federal authority in public health.

President Donald Trump hosted top technology executives at a White House event on Thursday, where he questioned them about their companies' investments in US manufacturing, as per a report in The Hill. During the meeting, Trump sat with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and first lady Melania Trump, asking attendees to publicly state how much their companies were investing domestically.

American tennis player Amanda Anisimova has advanced to the third round of the US Open, acknowledging she felt significant stress and pressure ahead of the tournament, according to a report in The Guardian. Her current performance comes after a difficult loss in the Wimbledon final, where she was defeated 6-0, 6-0 by Iga Swiatek. Anisimova stated that it was natural to feel pressure before a major tournament, especially given the context of her previous Grand Slam appearance.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has emerged as the leading potential candidate for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, as per a report in The Hill. A new Yahoo/YouGov poll found that 21% of registered Democratic voters and Democratic-leaning voters identified Newsom as their preferred nominee, placing him at the top of the field in the early survey.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has targeted Switzerland's pharmaceutical sector, asserting that the nation is "so rich" primarily because of its extensive drug exports to the American market, according to a report in Bloomberg. Lutnick's comments highlight growing US scrutiny over the high cost of imported pharmaceuticals and the trade dynamics with major drug-producing nations. The statement signals a more assertive US stance on international drug pricing, focusing on the profits foreign companies derive from sales in the United States.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning that any Western military personnel deployed to Ukraine would be viewed as "legitimate targets" by Russian forces, Fox News said in a report. The statement comes amid ongoing diplomatic talks regarding a potential peacekeeping presence in the country. In a related development, US President Donald Trump stated he is seeking to organize a meeting between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to address the conflict.

A three-judge panel of a US appeals court has ruled to maintain an existing pause on a lower court order that sought to impose limitations on the National Guard's actions in Los Angeles, The Washington Post said in a report. This decision means the specific restrictions, which are related to legal challenges stemming from the Guard's role during past civil unrest, will not be enforced while the appeal process continues. The ruling effectively allows the National Guard to continue operating under its current guidelines without the new judicial constraints.

Senator Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) on Thursday described independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as “the biggest threat to the health of the American people,” according to a report in The Hill. Warnock made the statement during what he called a "tragically ironic moment" for the country's public health. The criticism from the Georgia senator is directed at Kennedy's public positions on vaccines and other health-related topics.

House Republicans have officially formed a new subcommittee to investigate the January 6 Capitol attack, The Washington Post said in a report. The resolution to create the panel was established through a legislative maneuver that included it within a procedural rule on the House floor. This new investigation is seen as a counter-effort to the work of the previous, Democrat-led select committee that concluded in late 2022 and comes as part of broader Republican pledges to investigate the 'weaponization' of federal agencies.

US President Donald Trump has stated he will not attend this year's Group of 20 (G-20) leaders' summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, in November, according to a report in Bloomberg. The decision follows months of attacks by Trump on the South African government, which were based on what the report describes as unfounded claims that the country is carrying out a genocide on White Afrikaners.

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will host the 2026 G20 summit at his club near Miami, according to a report in The New York Times. The decision revives a similar plan from his first term, when he proposed hosting the G7 summit at one of his properties before withdrawing the idea amid criticism. During his first term in 2019, a plan to host the G7 at his Doral resort was canceled after facing bipartisan opposition regarding potential conflicts of interest.

President Donald Trump announced his list of finalists to lead the Federal Reserve, naming White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett, current Fed Governor Christopher Waller, and former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh as the top contenders, according to a report in Bloomberg. The selection is for a replacement for the central bank’s current chair, Jerome Powell.

The US Department of Justice has launched a criminal investigation into claims of mortgage fraud against Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, according to a report in The Guardian. The investigation, which has been confirmed by multiple news outlets after first being reported by the Wall Street Journal, involves subpoenas issued by DOJ lawyers. This development occurs as Cook is concurrently pursuing a lawsuit against President Donald Trump, challenging her dismissal from the Federal Reserve.

Republican Senators John Barrasso of Wyoming and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, both of whom are medical doctors, questioned independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about his views on vaccines during a Senate committee hearing, according to a report in Fox News. The exchange occurred as the senators challenged RFK Jr.'s well-known skepticism regarding vaccine safety and efficacy. The hearing provided a platform for the Republican doctors to publicly confront RFK Jr.'s positions from a medical and scientific perspective.

The US Health Secretary was questioned by a Senate committee on Thursday about the administration's handling of COVID-19, including deaths and vaccine policies, BBC says in a report. The hearing also addressed the firing of the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which occurred a week prior. The session involved congressional oversight of the government's public health response and recent leadership changes within its key agencies.