Stories from Washington · United States

Shopkeepers on Connecticut Avenue in Washington D.C. are requesting $2 million in grant money from the local government. Bill McLeod stated that ongoing construction is driving customers away and making it difficult for merchants to pay rent. The funds are intended to help the Dupont business community survive the construction period. Bill McLeod reported on the efforts to support local businesses during the project. Bill McLeod, executive director of the DuPont Circle Business Improvement District, is seeking assistance for merchants on Connecticut Avenue to manage construction impacts. Business owner Hua Pingxiu of DuPont Lash & Brow Bar is among those affected. The initiative aims to assist local businesses with their bottom line.

Latest polling data indicates Donald Trump's approval rating has dropped to a new low during his term. New reports confirm Trump's support has hit a new low during his tenure. The US Senate rejected a Democratic motion on the 28th during a procedural vote. The motion aimed to prevent President Trump from launching military actions against Cuba without Congressional authorization.

A federal judge in Washington, D.C. Donald Trump is planning a triumphal arch and the renovation of the Kennedy Center. He is also involved in a legal battle regarding his White House ballroom. Architect and public historian Neil Flanagan stated that the reflecting pool is being refinished in a manner more suitable to a swimming pool at Mar-a-Lago. The Interior Department told NPR that work on the renovation is expected to be completed by the end of May. While a judge stated a two-year closure is for maintenance and upkeep, Kennedy Center Board Chair President Trump claimed the building will be demolished and replaced with a new structure. The hearing allows groups to question Matt Floakup, the new executive director appointed by President Trump last month. The administration stated that the exterior of the building will not be materially different from its current state.

US lawmakers filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court to preserve Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti. The Trump administration is seeking to end the Temporary Protected Status program, which allows eligible refugees to remain in the U.S. if they cannot safely return to their home countries. Democratic lawmakers gathered outside the Capitol to call for protections for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders. Sibonaller stated she is unsure how the Supreme Court will rule on the matter. Andrea Shu of NPR reported from Washington on the ongoing protests by Democratic lawmakers regarding Temporary Protected Status protections. The report noted concerns and prayers for the justices to utilize legal precedence in their decisions. Nurses and home care providers are being pushed out of their roles despite a caregiver shortage.

An eyewitness, Miramar Martinez, was shot five times by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers while sitting in her car. Martinez was reportedly yelling and honking her horn after witnessing CBP and ICE agents targeting individuals based on race and accents.

The State Department is preparing a limited release of commemorative US passports. Spokesperson Tommy Piggett stated the passports will maintain existing security features. The State Department will roll out a limited number of specially designed passports in July to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary. Applicants have the option to obtain a passport without the presidential portrait. The design is being released in conjunction with the nation's 250th birthday celebrations. passports to celebrate America's 250th birthday. Between 25,000 and 30,000 of these new passports will be available to applicants at the Washington D.C. Passport Office starting shortly before July 4th. CBS News correspondent Kami McCormick reported on the upcoming rollout. The source stated Trump will be the first living American leader to appear on the document.

A federal judge has mandated that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) review the applications of 33 individuals. Other applicants remain in a waiting period due to a pause in immigration reviews.

A State Department spokesperson announced that new US passports will feature customized designs and enhanced imagery while maintaining existing security functions. The effort extends to other assets such as buildings, currencies, and airports. Between 25,000 and 30,000 of these commemorative passports will be made available. Spokesperson Tommy Piggett stated the new designs will be available exclusively at the Washington Passport Agency. Donald Trump is set to be included on new United States passports in celebration of the 150th anniversary of American independence in July. The decision comes amid shifts in the political landscape following Trump's return to power. Official documents will reflect changes in various sectors including travel documents, currency, and national landmarks.

The defense argued for release, noting Allen has no prior criminal record and should be presumed innocent. Prosecutors indicated that Allen could face additional charges. President Trump has agreed to remain behind bars while awaiting trial. His lawyers had previously argued in court papers that their client should be released. The source indicated the May 11th hearing might not proceed as planned. President Donald Trump will remain in jail until his trial, according to reports this morning. Lawyers for Cole Allen argued for his release late Saturday night, citing his master's degree and lack of a criminal record. However, the charge of attempting assassination is expected to prevent a judge from granting release. Cole Thomas Allen, the man charged with attempting to kill President Donald Trump and members of his cabinet, will remain in jail while awaiting trial.

Acting Secretary of Defense Hung Cao stated that the defense industry can assist in preventing the Pentagon from repeating mistakes made during the Global War on Terror. Cao's comments follow the recent removal of his predecessor.