Stories from United States

Ship tracking data indicates that only 4 to 5 of the 11 active US aircraft carriers are currently ready for immediate combat deployment. Multiple US media outlets reported the vessel shows signs of wear from its time at sea.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell addressed attacks on the institution's independence during a press briefing in Washington. Powell noted he plans to keep a low profile as a governor until Kevin Warsh is confirmed and sworn in as the new chair. One Fed board member voted to cut rates while three others voted to hold them. The decision follows expectations from Wall Street, though it deviates from some consumer desires for rate cuts to offset pricing pressures. The move comes as the central bank continues to manage ongoing economic pressures. Divisions exist within the decision-making process due to uncertainties created by the war. Divisions occurred amidst uncertainty regarding the war with Iran. Jerome Powell announced he will remain on the Board of Governors until an ongoing criminal investigation into the central bank is concluded.

The US Treasury Zone 2025 financial report shows $6 trillion in assets against $47 trillion in liabilities. This results in a negative net worth of approximately $41 trillion. The report was released several months ago, according to the broadcaster.

The US president has held discussions with oil companies regarding methods to mitigate the impact of surging global oil prices. Despite the international surge, some local petrol prices have dropped below $3 per litre. The Gatsby Price Monitoring app reports the average price for 91 octane petrol is $3.23. The US president held discussions with oil companies regarding mitigation strategies for the long-standing US blockade of Iranian ports. The conversation focused on managing the impact of the blockade on oil supplies. No specific mitigation measures were detailed in the report. A commentator on NPR stated that the U.S. president is misleading the public regarding the necessity of the Strait of Hormuz for oil supplies. While the president claims the U.S. does not need the strait due to West Texas production, the commentator argues the U.S.

Pennsylvania Republican Brian Fitzpatrick and Representative She is cosponsoring the Fuel the Force Act. The proposed legislation would exempt active-duty police officers with at least five years of service from taxes on their first $100,000 of annual income. Critics have argued the act would be unfair to other first responders who do not receive the same tax benefit. Democratic US Representative Marie Gluesenkamp and Republican Brian Fitzpatrick are co-sponsoring the Fuel the Force Act. Gluesenkamp noted the financial struggles of officers' families during a function last year. Glauke noted that some officers' families relied on food stamps last year.

Federal authorities are targeting a businessman from Apollo Beach in connection with COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud.

Montgomery County Police detained a 19-year-old individual following a fight in a park. Police Chief Mark Yamada stated that officers recovered a handgun dropped by one of the subjects during the altercation.

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell secured a $5 million settlement with Adroit. The company was accused of unfair and deceptive sales and administration practices regarding health plans.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger reached the 100-day mark of her four-year term this week. Her campaign focused on issues of affordability and supporting state schools. She has advocated for protections for Virginia renters and measures to reduce heat and energy costs for residents. The Governor noted that several General Assembly bills she supported have been passed. Her tenure follows her delivery of the Democratic response to the President's State of the Union address earlier this year. The announcement was made during a campaign discussion regarding state leadership and support. The governor noted ongoing campaign activities and engagement with constituents across the state. The report noted her progress on these specific campaign promises.

An assailant was neutralized by security services during an incident at the Washington Hilton hotel on April 25. No injuries were reported among Donald Trump, his spouse, or his immediate circle. The incident occurred during a period involving US-Iran negotiations.