The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office found that the Republican tax and spending bill supported by President Trump will significantly increase the federal deficit, disproportionately impacting the poorest Americans. The bill could add over $3 trillion to the national debt, but Congressional Republicans aim to pass it swiftly before Memorial Day. (UPI)
President Trump announced the selection of an architectural design for a “Golden Dome” missile defense system to safeguard the U.S. The budget package being finalized by Republicans includes an initial $25 billion for the project, with a projected total cost of $175 billion. The system is expected to be operational before the end of Trump’s term. (CBS News)
U.S. health officials are investigating a new salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers from Florida’s Bedner Growers. At least 26 people across 15 states have been affected, with nine hospitalized. The outbreak follows a previous incident in 2024 involving the same grower. Consumers are advised to discard potentially contaminated cucumbers. (ABC News)
NFL owners approved player participation in flag football in the 2028 Olympics, which will debut in Los Angeles. The move creates avenues for NFL players to compete internationally, with the potential for one player per NFL roster to be selected for their national team. The decision aligns with the interest expressed by players, including Patrick Mahomes. (NBC News)
Maintenance worker Sterling Williams at the Orleans Parish Justice Center in New Orleans was arrested for allegedly facilitating the escape of 10 inmates, including four charged with second-degree murder. Williams reportedly shut off water to a toilet, enabling the escape by allowing inmates to break it and exit. Four other jail employees were suspended. (Yahoo!)
