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On April 19, 2025, the Trump administration escalated its crackdown on Harvard University by seeking records on foreign funding and ties, following the university's refusal to comply with demands related to alleged antisemitism. This move is part of a broader effort against elite universities amid ongoing pro-Palestinian protests and cultural policy disputes.
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Protests have surged across the US, Tunisia, and Morocco in response to Israel's renewed offensive in Gaza, which has resulted in over 50,000 Palestinian deaths. Demonstrators are denouncing US support for Israel and calling for an end to diplomatic ties, reflecting deepening anger towards both Israel and the US administration.
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Conservationists have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging its rollback of environmental protections for the coal industry. The Center for Biological Diversity claims these actions threaten public health and the environment, particularly through weakened regulations on coal ash and greenhouse gas emissions. The lawsuit follows a series of executive orders aimed at boosting coal production.
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Nvidia has been informed by the U.S. government that it will require a license to export its H20 AI chips to China indefinitely, resulting in an expected $5.5 billion hit. This decision reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China over technology exports, impacting Nvidia's business strategy and the broader AI landscape.
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On April 8, 2025, President Trump announced executive orders to revive coal production, allowing older coal plants to continue operating despite environmental concerns. This move contrasts sharply with the global shift towards renewable energy, as countries like Spain and France reduce reliance on nuclear and fossil fuels in favor of solar and wind power.
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U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg has warned the Trump administration of potential criminal contempt for ignoring his orders regarding deportations to El Salvador. The judge's ruling escalates tensions between the judicial and executive branches, as the administration argues it did not violate any orders. The situation raises questions about presidential authority and judicial compliance.
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President Trump, 78, underwent a physical examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, revealing he is in 'excellent cognitive and physical health.' The report noted minor skin damage and a gunshot wound scar but indicated no serious health issues. Trump has faced scrutiny over his health transparency amid ongoing comparisons with President Biden.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia, visiting Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. The trip aims to strengthen economic ties amid ongoing U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, with Xi promoting China as a stable trade partner. His visit highlights the delicate balance these nations must maintain between China and the U.S.
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US airstrikes on Yemen's Ras Isa oil port have resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating at least 74 dead and over 170 injured. The strikes, part of a renewed military campaign against Houthi rebels, aim to disrupt their operations amid ongoing tensions linked to the Gaza conflict. The Houthis have vowed to retaliate, escalating the situation further.
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On April 18, 2025, the Ninth Circuit Court upheld a ruling blocking the Trump administration's attempt to end Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans. This decision protects around 350,000 individuals from deportation amid ongoing legal challenges against the administration's immigration policies.
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Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism about a potential trade deal between the US and UK, emphasizing a strong cultural affinity. The UK government aims to negotiate exemptions from tariffs imposed by Trump, which have affected various sectors. Ongoing discussions focus on future industries like biotech and AI, amid complex negotiations over traditional trade areas.
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The IRS's Direct File program, designed to simplify tax filing for Americans, is reportedly set to be discontinued amid criticism from lawmakers and tax preparation companies. Initially launched as a pilot in 2024, the program's future became uncertain when IRS staff were instructed to halt its development for the 2026 tax season.
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Recent tax proposals in Australia and the US highlight contrasting approaches to tax relief amid rising living costs. Australia introduces a simplified $1,000 instant deduction for work expenses, while the US grapples with automatic withholding and tax refunds. Both aim to ease financial burdens but face scrutiny over their effectiveness.
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The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has reversed its 2024 rule capping credit card late fees, following a federal court ruling. This decision, seen as a win for banks, allows them to charge higher fees, impacting consumers who may face increased costs. The CFPB will now focus on other consumer protection areas.
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In his first major speech since leaving office, Joe Biden criticized Donald Trump's administration for threatening Social Security, calling it a 'sacred promise' for millions of Americans. Biden's remarks came during a conference in Chicago, where he highlighted concerns over potential cuts and job losses at the Social Security Administration.
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Nvidia has announced a $5.5 billion write-down due to new U.S. export restrictions on its H20 chips to China. This follows similar warnings from AMD regarding its MI308 products. The restrictions are part of ongoing tensions in the U.S.-China trade relationship, impacting the semiconductor industry significantly.
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Gary Shapley, who testified about Hunter Biden's tax investigations, is being replaced as IRS leader by Deputy Treasury Secretary Michael Faulkender. This change reflects ongoing turmoil within the IRS, exacerbated by political tensions and recent controversies surrounding Biden's son.
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Nvidia has warned of a $5.5 billion hit due to new U.S. export controls on its H20 AI chips, which are now subject to licensing requirements for sales to China. This follows similar restrictions on AMD, impacting both companies' stock prices and the broader semiconductor market.
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Former President Joe Biden's attempts to secure high-paying speaking engagements are faltering, with reports suggesting he is struggling to attract audiences. This follows his recent public address where he criticized Donald Trump's administration for cuts to Social Security, raising concerns about the impact on millions of Americans. Biden's age and delivery have also drawn scrutiny.
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On April 15, 2025, NJ Transit engineers, represented by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, overwhelmingly rejected a proposed contract deal by 87%. This rejection sets the stage for a potential strike as early as May 15, 2025, amid ongoing labor disputes dating back to 2019.
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A federal court has ordered the release of up to $625 million in climate grants that were frozen by the Trump administration. The ruling comes amid ongoing lawsuits against the EPA and other federal agencies for blocking Congressionally authorized funding under the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
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U.S. farmers are grappling with severe financial challenges due to climate impacts and trade tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. As crop losses mount, particularly in Texas and California, many farmers are calling for government bailouts to survive. Meanwhile, cocoa producers in West Africa are struggling with ongoing agricultural issues despite a predicted global surplus in cocoa production.
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North Korean hackers have established U.S.-based companies, Blocknovas and Softglide, using fake identities to target job applicants with malware. This operation, linked to the Lazarus Group, raises concerns about cybersecurity and foreign influence. The FBI has seized the domains involved in the scheme as part of ongoing efforts to combat North Korean cyber threats.
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Tennessee lawmakers are reconsidering a controversial bill requiring proof of legal residency for public school enrollment. With the legislative session nearing its end, House Majority Leader William Lamberth has expressed concerns about potential federal funding implications. The bill has sparked significant opposition from students and advocates, citing its conflict with the Plyler v. Doe ruling.
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The Trump administration has paused construction on the Empire Wind project off Long Island, raising concerns about New York's renewable energy goals and local job creation. The project, which aims to power 500,000 homes, has faced criticism for its cost and environmental impact. Mayor Adams is urging the revival of the initiative.
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President Trump's administration faces significant backlash over its aggressive immigration policies, particularly regarding the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man sent to El Salvador despite a court order preventing his removal. Critics argue this case highlights broader issues of due process and the administration's disregard for constitutional rights.
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As of April 25, 2025, U.S. CEOs express growing concerns about an economic slowdown, despite President Trump's optimistic trade rhetoric. Business leaders are wary of the impact of tariffs and the potential for recession, particularly affecting Middle America. The outlook remains uncertain as negotiations with China continue.
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U.S. stocks surged on April 23, 2025, following President Trump's comments indicating he would not fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Trump also suggested that high tariffs on China would be reduced, contributing to market optimism. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq saw significant gains, reversing earlier declines linked to Trump's criticisms of Powell's interest rate policies.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom and other Democratic leaders express concerns about the party's direction as it faces low popularity. Meanwhile, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez emerges as a strong contender for the 2028 presidential nomination, boasting high favorability ratings among Democrats, according to recent polls.
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As US immigration policies under President Trump deter international travel, UK visitors to the US have decreased by 14.3% in March 2025 compared to the previous year. Reports of detentions and deportations have led many to reconsider their travel plans, opting for alternative destinations instead.
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Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent appointed Michael Faulkender as acting IRS commissioner, replacing Gary Shapley, amid internal conflicts and leadership instability. Shapley, a controversial figure due to his ties to Hunter Biden's tax investigation, will remain a senior advisor. This change follows significant staff cuts and ongoing scrutiny of IRS practices.
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The Trump administration has transformed the COVID.gov website to promote the lab leak theory regarding the origins of COVID-19. This change redirects users away from public health resources and criticizes previous administrations and health officials, including Dr. Anthony Fauci. The shift reflects ongoing political agendas amidst debates about the virus's origins as of April 24, 2025.
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Inmates whose death sentences were commuted by Biden are facing potential transfer to a supermax prison in Colorado. They argue the move, ordered by Trump, violates their rights and could endanger their health. A lawsuit has been filed to halt the transfer, with a court hearing scheduled soon.
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Recent polls indicate a decline in approval for Trump's immigration policies, with significant public concern over deportations and handling of specific cases. While Trump maintains some support among Republicans, overall sentiment is shifting, reflecting broader dissatisfaction with his administration's approach to immigration and related issues as of April 25, 2025.
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The Supreme Court is set to review an emergency application from the Trump administration seeking to lift a nationwide injunction against a new policy banning transgender individuals from military service. This follows a ruling by a federal judge that deemed the ban discriminatory and unconstitutional. The court's decision is expected soon.
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The Trump administration will restart collections on defaulted federal student loans on May 5, impacting approximately 5.3 million borrowers. This follows a pause since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Borrowers will face wage garnishments and withheld tax refunds if payments are not made.
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Rainn Wilson, known for his role in 'The Office,' criticized left-leaning media for downplaying issues during the Biden administration while being overly critical of Trump. His comments, made on MSNBC, highlight a perceived double standard in media coverage. This discussion reflects broader concerns about media accountability and political narratives.
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US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran, suggesting a potential deal could be reached without military action. His comments come as talks resume in Oman, with concerns from Israel about the US's approach to Iran's nuclear program. Trump also discussed regional dynamics, including relations with Saudi Arabia and the situation in Gaza.
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A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll shows President Trump's approval rating has dropped to 42%, reflecting growing public concern over his executive actions and handling of key issues. Trust in the Supreme Court has also declined, with 60% of Americans believing the country is on the wrong track as Trump faces scrutiny over his governance.
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Far-right Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir faced significant protests during his recent visit to Yale University, where demonstrators opposed his controversial views and actions. The protests coincided with his meetings with Republican lawmakers, raising concerns about US support for his hardline stance on Gaza amid ongoing violence.
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The UK government has announced a significant agreement with Italian energy group Eni to invest billions in carbon capture technology. This initiative aims to create thousands of jobs and enhance the country's clean energy infrastructure, particularly through the Liverpool Bay Carbon Capture and Storage Project.
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Recent polling indicates a significant decline in Donald Trump's approval ratings as he approaches 100 days into his second term. Key issues such as the economy and immigration have contributed to a growing sense of discontent among voters, including Republicans. Many describe his presidency as 'scary' and 'chaotic'.
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As of April 22, 2025, Donald Trump's administration has made little progress towards a peace deal in Ukraine, despite initial promises. The lack of effective pressure on Russia and a failure to capitalize on ceasefire opportunities have left the situation stagnant, raising concerns about U.S. foreign policy direction.
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Tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square for the funeral of Pope Francis, who died at 88. The ceremony, attended by world leaders including Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, marks the beginning of nine days of mourning. Francis was known for his inclusive approach and advocacy for the marginalized during his 12-year papacy.
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Former Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden attended the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City. Trump was seated in the front row, while Biden was further back, highlighting ongoing tensions. The event marked their first public appearance together since Trump's second inauguration.
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At the White House Correspondents' Association dinner, journalists addressed the challenges of press freedom under the Trump administration. Axios reporter Alex Thompson received the Aldo Beckman Award, emphasizing the media's responsibility in reporting on President Biden's cognitive decline. The event lacked a comedian and a sitting president, highlighting tensions in the current media landscape.
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Donald Trump faced backlash for wearing a blue suit instead of black at Pope Francis's funeral on April 26, 2025. While other leaders adhered to the dress code, Trump's choice sparked criticism online, with many deeming it disrespectful. His wife Melania wore black, aligning with the expected attire for the occasion.