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FTC takes action against multilevel marketing participant for deceptive earnings claims

The Federal Trade Commission has taken action against Stormy Wellington over alleged deceptive earnings claims used in recruiting workers into two multilevel marketing companies. Most recruits reportedly made little or no money despite promises of high income. A proposed order would restrict future misleading statements about earnings.


FTC approves 2026 budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority

The Federal Trade Commission has approved the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s budget for 2026 after a public comment period. The unanimous vote follows standard oversight procedures by publishing proposals for public review.


VA announces $16 million in grants for adaptive sports programs for disabled veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs is making $16 million available in grants for organizations supporting adaptive sports for disabled veterans. The program aims to improve quality of life through recreational activities like archery and cycling. Applications are open until May 13.


VA announces $7 million in grants for rural Veteran transportation services

The Department of Veterans Affairs announced $7 million in grant funding for organizations providing transportation services to rural veterans. The initiative aims to improve access to health care by supporting travel needs for veterans living far from medical facilities.


VA deploys new electronic health record system at four Michigan hospitals

The Department of Veterans Affairs has launched its new electronic health record system at four hospitals in Michigan after a previous pause. This marks the beginning of several planned deployments aimed at improving healthcare efficiency for veterans.


Secretary Rubio addresses Iran conflict and Cuba's remarks before meeting with New Zealand minister

Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to reporters ahead of his meeting with New Zealand's foreign minister. He discussed global impacts from Iran's actions and responded to recent statements by Cuba's president.


United States congratulates To Lam and Le Minh Hung on new leadership roles in Vietnam

The United States congratulated To Lam on becoming President of Vietnam and Le Minh Hung as Prime Minister. Officials highlighted decades of growing partnership between the two nations. They expressed hope for continued cooperation under the new Vietnamese leadership.


United States signs health cooperation agreement with Tajikistan under America First strategy

The United States has signed a new bilateral health cooperation agreement with Tajikistan under its America First Global Health Strategy. The deal aims to strengthen disease prevention efforts while enhancing diplomatic ties between both countries.


U.S. Department of State announces release of American journalist Shelly Kittleson

American journalist Shelly Kittleson has been released after being kidnapped near Baghdad by Kata’ib Hizballah members. The U.S. Department of State thanked both domestic agencies and Iraqi partners for their help in securing her freedom.


United States announces candidacy of Luke J. Lindberg for UN World Food Program leader

The United States has nominated Luke J. Lindberg as its candidate for Executive Director of the UN World Food Program. Lindberg is currently an Under Secretary at USDA with experience managing major food aid programs.


United States and Philippines sign joint declaration to enhance health cooperation

The United States and Philippines have formalized an agreement focused on strengthening public health systems and combating infectious diseases like HIV and tuberculosis. This initiative follows ongoing U.S.-Philippine collaboration under broader global strategies.


United States extends wishes for Songkran and Thai New Year 2026

The United States has sent greetings to Thailand for Songkran and Thai New Year 2026. The statement includes congratulations to Thailand's new government and emphasizes ongoing cooperation between both countries.


United States extends wishes to Burma for Thingyan festival and New Year

The United States has sent greetings to Burma during its Thingyan festival and New Year celebration. The message highlighted support amid ongoing conflict in Burma and praised citizens' resilience.


United States extends wishes to Cambodia for Khmer New Year

The United States has sent greetings to Cambodia on Khmer New Year. The message emphasizes strong ties between both countries and expresses hopes for peace and prosperity in the coming year.


U.S. Secretary of State extends wishes for Lao New Year 2026

The U.S. Secretary of State has sent greetings for Pi Mai Lao—the Lao New Year—highlighting cultural ties between Laos and America. The message emphasizes partnership efforts in prosperity, health, and opportunity.


United States and Kyrgyz Republic discuss cooperation at annual bilateral consultations

U.S. Assistant Secretary Paul Kapur met with Deputy Minister Meder Abakirov for annual bilateral consultations in Washington. The talks focused on strengthening political, economic, and security ties between the United States and Kyrgyzstan.


United States imposes sanctions on Cártel del Noreste operatives and linked casinos

The Trump Administration announced new sanctions targeting Cártel del Noreste operatives involved in money laundering, drug trafficking, and human smuggling along key border areas including Nuevo Laredo. Officials say these steps aim to disrupt criminal operations threatening both U.S. security and regional stability.


Aiken man indicted for illegal gun possession after Five Points traffic stop

A Columbia grand jury indicted Devron Jakell Duncan for illegally possessing a firearm after an early morning traffic stop near Five Points led police to recover a loaded pistol he allegedly discarded while fleeing officers. Prosecutors say prior felony convictions bar him from owning guns; if convicted again he could face up to fifteen years in prison.


Heinrich seeks answers from DOE on energy preparedness before Iran conflict

Senator Martin Heinrich has asked Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright if preparations were made ahead of recent disruptions in Middle East shipping routes following U.S. military action against Iran. Heinrich cited rising fuel costs and called for documentation showing how potential impacts were analyzed.


Chairman Arrington delivers remarks at hearing on President’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget request

House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington delivered opening remarks at an April hearing reviewing next year's presidential budget request. Arrington discussed recent changes under current leadership while highlighting priorities like reducing wasteful spending. The House Budget Committee plays an essential role overseeing federal budgets.