Stories from Washington · United States

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.

The FDA says it plans to overhaul how drug companies test new medicines. The agency aims to cut months or years off drug development times by monitoring weather experiments. The source did not specify the exact timeline for implementation.

Business owners in Washington D.C.'s Dupont Circle are requesting $2 million from lawmakers to offset construction costs. The request follows a 42% revenue decline for some businesses due to a construction project. Concerns were voiced during an EC Council hearing on Monday. The funds would be used to cover rent and support merchant well-being during the construction period. Executive Bill McLeod stated that construction is deterring customers and making it difficult for shopkeepers to pay rent. Merchants are asking for assistance to survive the short-term financial strain caused by the project. Challenges include the inability to offer food to-go or accommodate guest drop-offs and rides. Jeff Cole, owner of the Golden Hour cocktail bar, reported monthly costs of $50,000 due to the construction.

Senator Ed Markey is introducing legislation intended to combat the Trump administration's attacks on loans for immigrant business owners. The move follows a new White House policy created last month that bars non-citizens from certain loan access. The legislation aims to mitigate the impact of these policy changes on immigrant-led enterprises. Markey stated the current administration's message to immigrants is that the American dream is not for them.

A demonstration group has sued the city alleging that police violated their constitutional right to protest. Huffman stated that while the city has made no admission of wrongdoing, the sizable payment sent a message.

A city has agreed to pay $5,000 to four individuals who alleged police brutality by officers during a Black Lives Matter protest six years ago. The settlement includes no admission of wrongdoing by the city. The report was provided by John Bender. The city will pay a $5,000 settlement following a lawsuit related to a protest in May 2020. Jasmine Huffman, one of four plaintiffs, alleged her constitutional right to protest was violated after being hit in the chest with a baton by a city police officer. The payment is intended to send a specific message, according to a source. A sizable payment by the city has been made to compensate for an incident involving police brutality. Huffman stated that the payment sends a message that an event occurred deserving of compensation. Huffman expressed hope that the settlement prompts reforms in police conduct.

The US special envoy to Ukraine will leave her position, according to a report by the Financial Times. The envoy, Julie David, reportedly grew increasingly frustrated by the Trump administration's lack of support for Ukraine.

The United States Air Force revealed a special commemorative paint scheme on an F-15E fighter jet. The design honors the 40th anniversary of Operation El Dorado Canyon.