Stories from Washington D.C. · United States

Sean Plankey has requested to withdraw his name from consideration to lead the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). The move follows a year of leadership instability within the agency. This development occurs as the Trump administration continues its appointments for key cybersecurity roles. Sources told NPR that the nomination had been on hold for weeks due to ethics and conflict of interest concerns. Former Park Service employees also pointed to ties between Socia and interests pushing for national park privatization. The agency has previously operated with only acting directors during the first Trump administration. Former Park Service employees had previously noted Socia's ties to interests advocating for the privatization of national parks. The agency is currently facing record visitation levels alongside billions of dollars in maintenance backlogs.

More than 120 US-based organizations have issued warnings to football fans regarding potential risks to their rights while traveling for the FIFA World Cup. The warnings highlight concerns over legal and safety protections for international travelers. This development comes as preparations for the global tournament intensify. Measles outbreaks in the United States, Canada, and Mexico have prompted travel precautions ahead of the World Cup starting in June. These three nations are currently the epicenters of measles cases in the Americas. Brazil was declared measles-free in 2004, but the country continues to receive imported cases. Travelers heading to the host nations are advised to ensure they are protected against the disease.

Medical advocates are warning that proposed budget cuts by RFK Jr. could significantly increase healthcare inequity. The warnings follow recent discussions regarding the impact of these fiscal changes on public health resources. The potential shifts in funding could affect various sectors of the US healthcare system. has threatened to withhold millions of dollars in funding from hospitals. The proposed cuts target facilities that serve sugary treats such as Jell-O.

A former CIA counterterrorism official has alleged that Donald Trump demanded access to nuclear codes during April. The claims were made during an appearance on a libertarian legal analyst's podcast. If verified, the incident would represent a significant breach of protocol regarding nuclear command and control. Currently, about $25 billion is being spent on Operation Epic Fury, primarily for ammunition and equipment. A supplement will be formulated through the White House once all cost data is finalized.

The U.S. Specific charges have not yet been disclosed by officials. The investigation may involve an interstate threat. The post in question contained the numbers 86-47. The source noted the possibility of charges regarding an interstate threat against President Trump. A US federal court had dismissed those charges after determining the lead prosecutor's responses were unlawful. This follows President Trump's recent dismissal of Attorney General Bondi earlier this month. Former FBI Director James Comey is being indicted, according to a source familiar with the matter. A federal judge also cleared the way for a wrongful termination case filed by the FBI earlier today. The latest charges are reportedly connected to a social media post featuring the message 8647. Some critics have characterized the message as a call to assassinate Donald Trump.

Utility providers in the United States are being advised to bolster their digital defenses due to rising global tensions. This move aims to protect critical infrastructure from potential state-sponsored or criminal cyberattacks. The data comes from the first report issued under a law passed in 2023. Jean Sue of the Center for Biological Diversity stated the findings reflect a national energy affordability crisis. The Center for Biological Diversity advocated for the law following consumer struggles to pay bills during the COVID pandemic.

A new poll indicates that Donald Trump's approval rating regarding the US economy has fallen to 30 percent. This decline comes amid ongoing discussions regarding US political stability and economic policy. The shift reflects growing public sentiment concerning the current economic landscape in the United States. New US polling data indicates Donald Trump's support has dropped to its lowest level during his tenure.

At least 17 immigrants have been reported dead in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody since January of this fiscal year. This surge represents a record high for the agency's custody-related fatalities. The increase highlights ongoing concerns regarding the treatment and safety of detainees within the US immigration system. Approximately 6,500 Rohingya refugees fled across the sea last year. According to the UNHC, one in seven of these individuals died or is considered missing. Migrants travel on simple vessels for several weeks on the open ocean. These vessels are vulnerable to wind, waves, and fuel shortages. Many incidents result in boats sinking and passengers drowning. Risks include running out of fuel or boats sinking in open water.

Special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner arrived at the White House on Tuesday afternoon. A state dinner is scheduled to begin at 7pm Eastern at the White House. A historian will discuss the royal itinerary and reflect on previous visits during the upcoming broadcast. Trump reportedly advised King Charles regarding his use of social media. Sam Altman and Elon Musk were also present during discussions involving Mr. Observers noted Trump appeared highly satisfied during the reception based on his body language and verbal remarks. They were welcomed with a military ceremony on the White House lawns. He spoke of the English love of liberty and British pride on the continent. The visit comes during a period of challenging international relations. The visit aims to strengthen historical ties and bilateral relations between Washington and London.

Retail prices in the United States have experienced their most significant increase in three years, primarily driven by rising fuel costs. Data from the Census Bureau highlights this trend in recent market reports. Average gasoline prices in the United States reached $4.18 per gallon, the highest level since August 2022. The American Automobile Association reported this increase follows a roughly 40% surge since the outbreak of the Iran war. Diesel prices were recorded at $5.46 per gallon, approaching all-time highs. Goldman Sachs raised its fourth-quarter crude oil forecast to $90 per barrel, citing supply shortage risks and high refined product prices. An Ipsos poll of 1,000 US adults found only 22% are satisfied with cost-of-living issues. This represents the highest price level since shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.