Stories from Washington · United States

A White House official informed NPR that the brother of the shooter, Allen, notified law enforcement about a piece of writing Allen had composed and sent to family members shortly before the shooting.

President Trump stated that the gunman who attempted to storm the White House Correspondents Dinner in Washington had written an anti-Christian manifesto. Trump described the suspect as a sick individual who hated Christians.

Cole Thomas Allen, a 31-year-old California citizen, allegedly wrote a manifesto prior to the shooting at the Washington gala. The document reportedly stated Allen's intent to target administration officials. Allen's brother notified police of the document's existence. A White House official confirmed the manifesto was sent to family members minutes before the incident at the Hilton Hotel. Allen is scheduled to be arraigned in federal court tomorrow. Congressman Brian Clark stated that current indications suggest Cole Allen acted alone in the attack on the Trump gala. Allen reportedly left writings containing calls to target administrative officials and expressed anti-Christian views. The suspect referred to himself as a "friendly federal assassin" according to AP sources. Security layers at the event were described as effective by witnesses who did not hear shots before the incident.

US scientists are reportedly facing increasing pressure and reduced research funding under the Trump administration, leading many to feel their work is no longer free or independent. Trump compared the incident to previous assassination attempts in Pennsylvania and Mar-a-Lago. New details have emerged regarding the suspected shooter involved in the incident targeting Donald Trump at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. FBI agents conducted a raid on the home of the Cole family on Sunday morning. Witnesses reported plainclothes agents arriving in vehicles and carrying items out of the residence. Acting US Attorney General states the gunman likely targeted White House staff and the President. The incident has prompted scrutiny over how an armed person could enter without attracting immediate attention.

South African artist Tandiswa Mazwai is being celebrated for her unique sound and political activism, which resonates with audiences in the United States. Her music blends hip hop, reggae, jazz, and house music, a genre known as kwaito. Mazwai's vocal delivery is described as having seriousness and strength, inspiring listeners. Her lyrics often touch on themes of struggle, resilience, and remembering one's roots.

A recent poll indicates that less than 25% of Americans believe obtaining a university degree is necessary for success. The changing perspective may alter how younger generations approach their next professional steps. Less than a quarter of Americans currently believe a university degree is a necessity. New data shows only 33% of Democrats believe a college degree is necessary, compared to just 20% of Republicans. Interviewees noted that US university costs are making social mobility difficult and leaving graduates trapped in debt. High costs of higher education in the United States are making university attendance inaccessible for many citizens. Students face long-term debt traps even after securing employment, hindering the ability to achieve traditional milestones like home ownership. The financial burden is described as a barrier to the role of college as a tool for social mobility.

U.S. Marshals reported nearly 15,000 threats against lawmakers, staff, and officials last year. The report also noted 564 threats specifically targeting judges. Supreme Court Justice Roberts has publicly appealed for an end to personal attacks on members of the judiciary. These figures highlight a rising cost of public life and pervasive violence within American politics. There is a marked increase in harassment and threats of physical violence against journalists in the United States. These incidents are noted as a growing concern for federal and state officials. The rise in threats is described as a factor corroding national democracy.

Senator Nyamu has introduced legislation aimed at regulating the use of artificial intelligence. Reports also indicate Sberbank is preparing cryptocurrency-backed loans. A new bill has been introduced to the State Duma to regulate cryptocurrency operations. The government has approved projects concerning the circulation of cryptocurrencies within Russia. The legislation includes provisions for imprisonment for violating cryptocurrency laws. As of April 17, 2026, Russian border guards have the authority to request the unlocking of smartphones and laptops. Refusal to comply with these inspections can result in fines of up to 7,000 rubles. Additionally, individuals may face administrative detention for up to 15 days. This authority stems from an amendment made to the state border law in the summer of 2025.

Cole Allen, 31, is scheduled to hear charges in court tomorrow following an attack at the White House Correspondents Association dinner. Law enforcement officials reported Allen was armed with two guns and knives when apprehended at a checkpoint.

Leaked writings from a would-be assassin are providing authorities with insight into his motives. Cole Thomas Allen has been taken into custody following an attack on a political figure.