1. Refugee Funding Crisis: A freeze on resettlement funding by the Trump administration has left thousands of newly arrived refugees scrambling for financial support, impacting their ability to adjust to life in the U.S.
  2. Protests at Columbia University: A Palestinian student protester was arrested during demonstrations at Columbia University, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
  3. Homelessness Legislation in Kentucky: As Kentucky criminalizes urban camping, a new ‘homeless court’ initiative aims to provide alternatives to punishment for those experiencing homelessness.
  4. Health Agency Buyouts: The top U.S. health agency has offered $25,000 buyouts to most of its employees, a move that could significantly reshape its workforce and operations.
  5. Segregation and Gun Violence in Selma: Activists in Selma, Alabama, continue to fight against persistent issues of segregation, poverty, and gun violence, marking the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday with renewed calls for justice.

These stories reflect significant social, political, and economic issues currently affecting the United States. Here are today’s top 5 news stories in the USA:

  1. Secret Service Shooting Incident: A man brandishing a firearm was shot by Secret Service officers near the White House during a confrontation. The incident occurred on Sunday morning, raising concerns about security in the area.
  2. Bloody Sunday Anniversary in Selma: As the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday is commemorated, local activists in Selma, Alabama, highlight ongoing struggles with segregation, poverty, and gun violence, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy for civil rights.
  3. Long Island Brush Fires: Firefighters are battling brush fires in Long Island, which are currently 22% contained. High winds have complicated efforts, but officials report that visible flames have been “knocked down.”
  4. Pope Francis’ Health Update: The Vatican announced that Pope Francis is showing gradual improvement after being hospitalized for double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff is responding well to treatment, according to the Holy See Press Office.
  5. Federal Employee Lawsuit: The District of Columbia, Maryland, and 18 other states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, seeking the reinstatement of federal employees who were fired since mid-February, arguing that the mass firings were unjust.

These stories reflect a mix of security, health, environmental, and legal issues currently shaping the national landscape.