Stories from Washington · United States

The Commonwealth Fund reported finding racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare access across all 50 United States. David Radley noted that many minorities struggle with the affordability of medicine and doctor co-payments. States such as New York, Maryland, and Massachusetts are performing better due to Medicaid program expansions under the Affordable Care Act. These states have reportedly gone beyond standard requirements to make various services available. Minority groups, specifically Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous populations, struggle most with healthcare access. These struggles follow cuts to Medicaid and the expiration of Obamacare premium tax credits. Radley noted that Asian Americans and white people tend to receive the best healthcare services. Black, Hispanic, and indigenous populations, including Alaska Natives and American Indians, tend to struggle the most.

The United States communications regulator is reevaluating the federal license that authorizes ABC television broadcasting. The chair's action requires Disney-owned stations to apply for license recertification earlier than expected. Gomez described the move as an egregious violation of the First Amendment. She has called on media companies to resist the effort. The investigation is reportedly looking back to March. The announcement follows a Supreme Court reaffirmation regarding the use of race for preferences under the Communications Act. The Enforcement Bureau is tasked with reviewing the matter. The Federal Communications Commission, led by Brandon Carr, is investigating whether it can intervene regarding broadcasting licenses for eight local ABC-affiliated television stations. The investigation is reportedly being driven by Trump-aligned interests.

An appeals court has ruled against the mandatory detention policy used by U.S. A federal appeals court issued a unanimous ruling stating the Trump administration cannot jail immigrants without bond. The decision sets the stage for a potential appeal to the Supreme Court.

Former US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman also stated that Benjamin Netanyahu is destabilizing the Middle East and that the United States is a participant in this process.

Former NBA player and assistant coach Damon Jones is scheduled to plead guilty today in a gambling investigation. Prosecutors allege Jones cashed in on rigged poker games and provided non-public injury information regarding star players, including his former teammate LeBron James. He admitted to helping defraud sports betting companies by using connections to obtain insider information regarding player injuries. Jones is the first person to plead guilty in a case involving more than 30 basketball stars and alleged mobsters. Other defendants, including former NBA players Terry Rosear and Chauncey Billips, have not entered guilty pleas. The investigation is linked to broader discussions regarding OPEC's influence on pricing, according to the report. The case is being handled in the United States.

Donald Trump signed a decree on Monday providing for sanctions against the International Criminal Court. The move comes amid increasing international tension regarding the court's authority. The decree targets leaders and officials associated with the court.

The National Army Museum has introduced a new augmented reality exhibition focused on the American Revolution. Visitors can use a provided tablet to scan markers to view the exhibit. The program is being presented by Luke Luker.

Consumer confidence rose modestly in April despite growing anxiety regarding soaring energy prices caused by the war. consumer confidence index rose to 92.8 in April. The report noted that these price increases are being driven by the war in Iran. Americans show increased confidence in the overall economy compared to one month ago, according to ABC's Sherry Preston. This uptick in confidence occurred from March through April despite rising concerns regarding oil and gas supplies. The average nationwide price for gasoline is currently 4.18 per gallon. The board's chief economist noted little overall change despite concerns regarding rising gas prices linked to the war in the Middle East. The S&P 500 dropped approximately 35 points, or about 0.5 percent, to 71.38. Major retailers reported mixed results, with Walmart remaining flat and Target's stock down 2 percent.

Leaked remarks from new Ambassador Christian Turner suggest the United States maintains a special friendship with Israel rather than Britain. Turner reportedly made these comments to sixth formers in Washington.

The U.S. Navy has successfully delivered its first metal 3D printed aircraft parts to the fleet.