AURN News

Hundreds gathered in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, to remember 18-year-old Nolan Wells. As family, friends and community members mourned, civil rights leaders renewed calls for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, while the Congressional Black Caucus called for an independent probe. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gas prices are rising nationwide as fighting involving the United States, Israel and Iran continues to disrupt global energy markets. With crude oil prices climbing and the Strait of Hormuz facing renewed disruptions, Americans are once again paying more at the pump. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The deadliest weekend yet in the war involving the United States and Iran has left more U.S. troops dead and wounded while the administration seeks billions more in military funding. Rising oil prices are also pushing gas prices higher, adding to the financial impact on Americans. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Democracy Forward has filed a lawsuit accusing the Trump administration of unlawfully withholding records related to the president's 2020 election fraud claims. The lawsuit seeks documents from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, the FBI and the Justice Department under the Freedom of Information Act. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New York has become the first state to impose a one-year moratorium on new hyperscale data centers, citing concerns about energy demand, water usage and community impacts. The move comes as opposition to large-scale data center projects continues to grow in communities across the country. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Actor Hal Williams, beloved for his performances as Officer "Smitty" Smith on "Sanford and Son" and Lester Jenkins on "227," has died at 91. His career spanned more than six decades across television and film, and his legacy extends beyond acting through a scholarship foundation supporting students of color. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump delivered a primetime address from the White House, renewing disputed claims about election fraud and noncitizen voting while urging Congress to pass the Save America Act. The speech offered no new evidence to support the allegations and renewed debate over election security ahead of future federal elections. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio hosted diplomats from more than 60 countries for a Washington summit focused almost entirely on left-wing political violence. Civil rights groups warn that the Trump administration's terrorism labels could target peaceful protesters and political opponents. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ida B. Wells and Assata Shakur were born on July 16, decades apart. Wells became a pioneering investigative journalist and anti-lynching crusader, while Shakur became an enduring and polarizing symbol of Black liberation. Their work influenced generations of activists, artists and civil rights leaders. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Trump personally reversed DHS' pause on ICE vehicle stops following backlash from MAGA-aligned figures, reportedly blindsiding senior officials. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mortgage rates have reached a one-year high, adding to the financial pressure facing prospective homebuyers. The Federal Reserve's upcoming interest rate decision could influence whether borrowing costs rise or fall in the weeks ahead. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The investigation into the death of 18-year-old Nolan Wells will be presented to a grand jury after authorities complete their investigation. The family announced funeral arrangements, while an independent autopsy funded in part by former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick remains pending. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Twitter launched to the public 20 years ago and quickly transformed how people followed breaking news, politics and major events. Black users helped shape the platform's language, humor and cultural influence, creating what became known as Black Twitter. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Frontier Airlines says it will begin offering Starlink Wi-Fi on its aircraft in 2027. The budget carrier says the service will give passengers access to faster in-flight internet for working, streaming and browsing. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faces the Senate Judiciary Committee as he seeks confirmation to permanently lead the Justice Department. Lawmakers are pressing him over the Epstein files, prosecutions involving Trump critics and a nearly $1.8 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund." Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has halted most vehicle stops nationwide after agents fatally shot Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero in Maine and Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Houston. The shootings have renewed scrutiny of ICE tactics and delays in the Department of Homeland Security's body camera rollout. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gainesville Black Business Expo Weekend will bring together Black-owned businesses, nonprofits and social organizations for two days of awards, networking, live music, food and giveaways. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Jackson began a historic seven-night run at Wembley Stadium on July 14, 1988, drawing a combined total of 504,000 fans and setting a venue record during his Bad World Tour. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump will deliver a prime-time White House address focused on newly declassified intelligence about foreign efforts to influence the 2020 election. The speech raises questions about whether the administration will present new evidence or revisit previously reviewed information. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More than 4 million Americans have lost SNAP food assistance since the Republican tax-and-spending law took effect, according to new data from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Researchers say expanded work requirements — not reduced need — are driving the sharp decline, with children making up nearly half of those losing benefits in states with available data. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On July 13, 2015, Sandra Bland died in a Waller County, Texas, jail cell three days after a traffic stop escalated into her arrest. Her death became a national symbol of police violence, the dangers Black women face in custody and the push for reforms in policing and jail oversight. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., has died at age 71 following a brief illness. Once one of Donald Trump's fiercest Republican critics, Graham later became one of the president's closest allies, capping a career that spanned decades in the U.S. Senate. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new Wall Street Journal-NORC poll finds growing skepticism about capitalism and the American dream. The survey also found that a majority of respondents believe the country is in decline and many no longer believe hard work alone is enough to get ahead. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump declined to sign a bipartisan housing bill approved by overwhelming majorities in Congress, saying he was protesting until lawmakers pass the SAVE America Act. Under the Constitution, the legislation became law without his signature because he neither signed nor vetoed it while Congress remained in session. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Businesses and consumers have paid an estimated $317 billion in extra tariffs since March 2025, according to We Pay the Tariffs. The coalition says additional costs could be on the way as temporary tariffs expire and the administration considers new trade measures. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump has removed the remaining members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, the bipartisan agency that helps states certify voting systems, distribute election security grants and support election administration. The leadership changes come months before the 2026 midterm elections as the administration pushes for tighter federal oversight of voter registration. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On July 10, 1927, David Dinkins was born in Trenton, New Jersey. As New York City's first Black mayor, Dinkins championed civil rights, expanded community programs and helped shape the city's future while leaving a lasting mark on American political history. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III is pushing back against a White House Domestic Policy Council report that accuses the National Museum of American History of "anti-Americanism" and "extreme political activism." Bunch says the Smithsonian remains committed to scholarship, accuracy, nonpartisanship and telling the fullness of America's story. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On July 9, 1868, the 14th Amendment was ratified, establishing birthright citizenship, due process and equal protection under the law. The landmark Reconstruction-era amendment remains one of the Constitution's most significant guarantees of civil rights and legal equality. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

American household debt climbed to a record $18.8 trillion during the first quarter of 2026, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Rising mortgage delinquencies, worsening student loan repayment trends and more foreclosures underscore the growing financial pressure facing many households. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Treasury Department has put plans for the Harriet Tubman $20 bill on hold after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the redesign is not moving forward at this time. Meanwhile, the administration is preparing for a proposed $250 bill featuring President Donald Trump if Congress authorizes the new denomination. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Trump Justice Department has sent letters to election officials in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., warning they could face criminal prosecution if noncitizens appear on voter rolls or vote in federal elections. The move has sparked criticism from officials across the political spectrum, while research continues to show noncitizen voting is exceedingly rare. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Texas Stock Exchange has officially begun test trading, marking the launch of a new financial marketplace based in Dallas. The exchange plans to compete with the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq as additional stocks are added throughout the month. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump declared the U.S.-Iran ceasefire officially over during the NATO summit, saying diplomatic negotiations are finished following renewed attacks and military strikes between the United States and Iran. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Twenty-five years ago, Venus Williams captured her second consecutive Wimbledon women's singles title with a dominant victory over Justine Henin. The win made her the first woman since Steffi Graf to repeat as Wimbledon champion and further established her as one of the greatest players in tennis history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new White House Domestic Policy Council report accuses the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History of "extreme political activism" and calls for a more patriotic presentation of American history ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary. Critics argue the effort seeks to reshape how Black, Native, immigrant, women's and LGBTQ history are presented. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is expanding access to GLP-1 medications through the new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program. Eligible beneficiaries will be able to receive the medications for $50 a month, though not everyone enrolled in Medicare will qualify. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

George E. Johnson, founder of Johnson Products and one of America's most influential Black entrepreneurs, has died at 99. Johnson transformed the Black hair-care industry, led the first Black-owned company listed on a major U.S. stock exchange and helped build lasting Black-owned institutions through business and banking. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New federal data first reported by The Associated Press show roughly 2.6 million fewer Americans were enrolled in Obamacare plans this February compared with a year earlier. While the Trump administration points to a crackdown on fraudulent signups, independent analysts say the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies and new eligibility restrictions also contributed to the decline. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trading officially began on Trump Accounts, the new children's investment program created under last year's tax and spending package. Eligible children born between 2025 and 2028 receive a $1,000 Treasury deposit invested in an S&P 500 index fund, with additional family contributions allowed over time. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Billy G. Mills, a pioneering civil rights attorney, former Los Angeles councilman and judge, has died at 96. As the first Black graduate of the UCLA School of Law and one of the first Black members elected to the Los Angeles City Council, Mills helped shape generations of legal and civil rights progress. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Crude oil prices have fallen to their lowest level since February, helping push down gas prices across the country. Analysts point to continued talks between the United States and Iran, the reopening of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and increased OPEC+ production as key factors behind the decline. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new financial disclosure filed with the U.S. Office of Government Ethics shows President Donald Trump reported more than $1.4 billion in crypto-related earnings last year. The filing details hundreds of millions of dollars from meme coin royalties, token sales and other digital asset ventures. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Fourth of July cookout for 10 people will cost a record average of $73.82 this year, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. Higher beef prices and continued inflation are making one of America's favorite holiday traditions more expensive. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As the United States marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, Frederick Douglass' 1852 speech, "What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?," continues to challenge Americans to confront the nation's founding contradictions and recommit to the promise of freedom for all. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new ADP employment report found private employers added just 98,000 jobs in June, signaling continued weakness in hiring. While small businesses and the education and health services sector posted gains, economists say labor market constraints continue to slow job creation. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On July 2, 1777, Vermont became the first U.S. territory to ban slavery, taking a historic stand while the American Revolution was still underway. The move helped establish an early anti-slavery precedent that would influence future debates over freedom, equality and citizenship. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The U.S. economy added just 57,000 jobs in June, far fewer than economists expected, while April and May payroll gains were revised downward. Economists say the unemployment rate fell in part because more people left the workforce, while Black unemployment remained elevated. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed to a new intraday record Wednesday, continuing a remarkable rally fueled by easing inflation concerns and falling crude oil prices. Investors remain focused on economic indicators as markets look for signs the momentum can continue. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On July 1, 1991, President George H.W. Bush nominated Clarence Thomas to replace retiring Justice Thurgood Marshall. His contentious confirmation hearings, including Anita Hill's testimony, became one of the defining moments in modern Supreme Court history, and his judicial legacy continues to shape major constitutional debates. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Major changes to the federal student loan system are now in effect, requiring millions of borrowers to transition from the Biden-era SAVE repayment plan while imposing new borrowing limits for graduate students and Parent PLUS loans. Financial aid experts warn the changes could increase the risk of loan defaults. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.