Stories from Washington DC · United States

National reading scores have seen a drop, with 83% of students scoring lower last year. US reading scores have declined significantly compared to a decade earlier, with 83% performing worse than their peers last year.

US drug overdose deaths decreased by 14 percent in 2025. Dr. Matthew Miller, a public health researcher at Northeastern, stated that a percentage of these deaths are suicides. Approximately 100,000 individuals died from drug overdoses.

NPR discussed the experience of seeing stars and the Milky Way. It highlighted the difference between knowing the universe is full of stars and actually observing them.

A federal lawsuit filed today accuses Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rawlins of violating the separation of church and state. The suit was filed by a federal union and seven U.S. Seven USDA employees and a federal union filed the suit.

Donald Trump is reportedly praising an upcoming trip, stating that many good things are expected to happen. This comes amidst the ongoing and costly conflict with Iran. President Trump praised his upcoming trip, stating it is for China trade, amidst the ongoing Iran conflict.

A report from U.S. Intelligence suggests that a deal with Iran may not be reached. This comes as key talking points for upcoming discussions include the Iran war and Taiwan. The context of the ongoing war in Iran is mentioned. The specific nature of the deal remains unclear.

A new law imposes strict rules on shops that cut engineered stone. However, experts suggest these regulations may not be sufficient to address health concerns. The law aims to address health risks associated with the material. The petition for stricter rules was filed.

The Senate narrowly confirmed Kevin Walsh as the new chair of the Federal Reserve. The vote was 54 to 45, marking the slimmest margin for such a confirmation. This concludes a months-long search for the position. He previously served on the board as its youngest member at age 35. Walsh returns to lead the institution.

A woman has been convicted of poisoning her husband with fentanyl. Richens spoke to the court with a message for her three children.

Lawmakers from both parties are requesting detailed information on how defense funds will be allocated.