AURN News

The Pentagon is asking Congress for an additional $80 billion in wartime funding, warning that military operations could face budget shortfalls as soon as this summer. The request comes as costs tied to the conflict with Iran continue to climb despite a fragile ceasefire. 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.

An appeals court has sided with the Trump administration in a dispute over a slavery exhibit at Philadelphia's President's House site. The ruling overturns a previous decision that ordered the National Park Service to restore panels removed from the memorial honoring people enslaved by President George Washington. 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.

Technology shares fell around the world as investors pulled back from some of the market's biggest AI-driven winners. The sell-off highlighted potential vulnerabilities in a sector that has fueled much of the market's recent growth. 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 Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was expected to be a centerpiece of President Donald Trump's America 250 celebration. Now, amid peeling paint and algae problems, Trump says vandalism may be to blame after previously pointing the finger at former President Barack Obama. 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 report from Morgan Stanley finds that housing affordability is unlikely to return to the levels many Americans enjoyed before 2022. The findings suggest that aspiring homebuyers waiting for prices to fall may face a very different housing market than in years past. 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 U.S. district judge has thrown out six grand jury subpoenas issued by the Trump Justice Department against top Minnesota officials, including Gov. Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison. In a strongly worded opinion, the judge said the subpoenas were issued to harass political opponents and lacked a legitimate investigative purpose. 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 latest round of U.S.-Iran negotiations has concluded in Switzerland, with Vice President JD Vance calling the talks a foundation for a final agreement. Despite progress, negotiators still face major challenges involving Iran's nuclear program, the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing regional conflicts. 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.

Award-winning science fiction writer Octavia E. Butler was born on June 22, 1947, in Pasadena, California. Through novels such as "Kindred" and "Parable of the Sower," Butler expanded the boundaries of science fiction and became one of the most influential Black writers in American literature. 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.

National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial says rising costs are being driven by policy decisions in Washington, including tariffs and the conflict involving Iran. In an interview with AURN News, Morial argues that voters should pay closer attention to how political decisions affect their economic well-being. 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 Obama Presidential Center is opening to the public on Chicago's South Side after more than a decade of planning and construction. The opening coincides with Juneteenth, adding deeper historical significance to the debut of the campus dedicated to the legacy of President Barack Obama. 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.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has pardoned 43 people convicted under a 19th-century law that made it a crime to help enslaved people escape. The order recognizes individuals including Elijah Anderson and Gillette Miles, whose efforts to aid enslaved people led to imprisonment and, ultimately, death behind bars. 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 Obama Presidential Center is officially opening after years of planning and construction on Chicago's South Side. The campus features a museum, library branch, community spaces and exhibits dedicated to the legacy of President Barack Obama. 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.

Higher gasoline and diesel prices cost Americans an additional $44.8 billion during the Iran conflict, according to a New York Times analysis. The report found consumers took more bus rides, spent less on essentials and faced higher prices on everyday goods as fuel costs climbed. 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 federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore Black history exhibits and other historical content removed from national parks. The ruling cites exhibits related to slavery, civil rights, Indigenous communities and climate science and gives the administration 21 days to comply. 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.

Fast-food prices have climbed sharply in recent years, and where you live can make a major difference in how much you spend. A new WalletHub report identifies the states that devote the highest and lowest percentage of their income to fast food purchases. 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.

Former San Francisco 49ers All-Pro Aldon Smith has died at age 36. According to The New York Times, Smith spent the final morning of his life helping deliver pizzas to a Bay Area homeless charity, a final act of service that is drawing attention as friends and fans remember his life and career. 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 political era may be taking shape in the nation's capital after voters selected Janeese Lewis George as the Democratic nominee for mayor and Robert White as the Democratic nominee for D.C. delegate to Congress. Their victories come as the city faces major budget challenges and an ongoing fight for statehood. 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.

Vice President JD Vance sparred with "The View" co-hosts Whoopi Goldberg and Sunny Hostin over claims that Black history is being removed from public spaces. The debate comes days after a federal judge ordered the Trump administration to restore slavery and civil rights exhibits at several historic sites. 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.

Bitcoin posted gains this week as markets responded to reports of a possible agreement between the United States and Iran. Investors appear encouraged by signs that tensions could ease, helping drive the cryptocurrency above $66,000. While Bitcoin remains below its record high, the latest rally reflects renewed optimism as markets watch developments in the region. 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 https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new Emerson College poll offers a snapshot of Black political sentiment heading into the 2026 midterm elections. Rising unemployment, workforce declines among Black women and concerns about inflation are fueling frustration, while many voters continue to closely watch developments surrounding voting rights and the economy. The question now is whether that frustration will translate into turnout at the ballot box. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Voters in Washington, D.C., are choosing a new mayor for the first time in more than a decade, but the election has taken on national significance. President Trump has warned that a victory by progressive candidate Janeese Lewis George could prompt efforts to place the city under greater federal control. Legal experts say dismantling D.C.'s home rule would require congressional action, but the issue has become a central topic in the campaign. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump declared that the war with Iran is over following the announcement of a new peace framework. While negotiators are preparing for a formal signing ceremony, officials on both sides say critical issues — including Iran's nuclear program — remain unresolved. 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.

Henry Ossian Flipper made history on June 14, 1877, when he became the first African American to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point. His achievement came despite years of isolation and racism and remains a powerful symbol of perseverance and breaking barriers. 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.

Heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit is facing backlash after making a false claim about former first lady Michelle Obama during a post-fight interview at UFC Freedom 250 on the White House lawn. Critics, including former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III, condemned the remarks, while UFC CEO Dana White said he opposed the comments. 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.

National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial is sounding the alarm over rising Black unemployment, which he says has climbed significantly over the past two years. Morial argues that federal workforce cuts and anti-DEI policies have contributed to growing economic challenges facing Black 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.

On June 12, 1991, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls captured their first NBA championship by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals. The victory marked the beginning of a dynasty that would produce six titles in the 1990s and cement Jordan's legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all 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.

Inflation hit a three-year high as energy, gasoline and food prices continued to rise, according to new Department of Labor data. The latest numbers underscore the financial pressures many Americans face as the cost of everyday necessities remains 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.

Floyd Norman, Disney's first Black animator, will receive an Honorary Oscar at the 2026 Governors Awards. Over a 65-year career, Norman helped shape some of animation's most beloved films while opening doors for generations of Black artists in the industry. 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.

Marcus Garvey, one of the most influential figures in Black history and the founder of the Universal Negro Improvement Association, died on June 10, 1940, at age 52. His message of Black pride, economic empowerment and global African solidarity would go on to inspire generations of activists, religious leaders and civil rights advocates. 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 CNBC survey found that 51% of Americans believe the American Dream is no longer achievable. Financial stability, homeownership and happiness remain key components of that dream, but many Americans say rising costs and economic pressures are making it harder to reach. 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 federal judge in Boston ruled that the Trump administration lacked the authority to impose a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, finding that only Congress can levy such a tax. The decision could have major implications for technology companies, hospitals and universities that rely on highly skilled foreign workers. 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.

FISA Section 702, one of the government's most powerful foreign intelligence tools, is set to expire as lawmakers remain deadlocked over its reauthorization. Supporters warn that a lapse could create significant gaps in intelligence collection and national security operations. 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.

Stacey King, a member of the Chicago Bulls' first three NBA championship teams and a beloved longtime broadcaster, has died at 59. King spent decades connected to the Bulls organization, first as a player and later as one of the franchise's most recognizable voices. 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.

Wichita student Ta'Liyah Lewis has been crowned Miss Kansas' Teen 2026. During her year representing the state, Lewis plans to focus on mental health awareness and suicide prevention while engaging with communities across Kansas. 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 legal battle is underway over President Donald Trump's plan to host a UFC event at the White House. Two Washington-area residents have filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block the event, arguing it violates federal rules and bypassed required approvals and environmental reviews. 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 walked out of a Meet the Press interview after calling host Kristen Welker “crooked or stupid” during a tense exchange over the 2020 election and California politics. The confrontation has renewed attention on Trump's history of clashes with Black female journalists. 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 global airline industry is bracing for a major financial hit as rising fuel costs tied to the war involving the United States, Israel and Iran threaten profitability. Industry leaders say jet fuel prices could surge 70% year over year, adding billions in costs and potentially driving up airfares for travelers. 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.

Qween Jean made Tony Awards history as the first openly transgender person to win a Tony, earning Best Costume Design of a Musical for “Cats: The Jellicle Ball.” The activist and designer used her acceptance speech to celebrate queer and trans communities while helping the production cap off a successful night on Broadway. 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.

Bitcoin has dropped to its lowest level since 2024, marking a dramatic decline from its record highs and adding to concerns about the state of the cryptocurrency market. The downturn comes amid broader economic uncertainty and as Congress delays consideration of major cryptocurrency legislation, including the CLARITY Act. Analysts are closely watching whether the latest selloff signals a temporary correction or a deeper shift in investor sentiment. 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 federal judge has struck down a Trump administration immigration policy that affected multiple stages of the legal immigration process, including asylum applications, work permits, green cards and citizenship. The ruling comes as immigrant advocacy groups continue to challenge broader immigration policies affecting communities across the country, including African and Caribbean immigrants. 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 more jobs than expected in May, but the benefits were not evenly distributed. New labor market data shows Black workers continue to experience higher unemployment rates than white workers, while economists point to declining labor force participation and rising long-term unemployment as ongoing concerns. The report highlights persistent disparities that have remained in place for decades. 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.

Prince Rogers Nelson remains one of the most influential artists in music history. From redefining the boundaries of funk, rock, soul and pop to fighting for artistic ownership and creative freedom, Prince left a legacy that continues to inspire generations. As fans mark what would have been his 68th birthday, his music and message remain as powerful as ever. 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 report from Citibank finds that racial disparities in income, wealth and business ownership continue to have far-reaching consequences for Black Americans and the broader economy. The analysis shows significant gaps in earnings and family wealth while estimating that closing those disparities could create millions of jobs and generate trillions of dollars in economic activity. 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.

John Bolton, who served as President Donald Trump's national security adviser, has agreed to plead guilty to a single felony count related to retaining classified national security information. Under the plea agreement, Bolton will pay $2.25 million and could face a sentence ranging from probation to five years in prison. The case centers on diary entries containing top-secret information that prosecutors say he improperly shared while working on his memoir. 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 bipartisan coalition in the House of Representatives voted to advance a resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump's ability to wage war against Iran without congressional authorization. Supporters argue Congress must reassert its constitutional role in decisions involving military action, while opponents question the measure's practical effect and legal authority. 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.

Peabo Bryson, the Grammy-winning singer known for timeless hits including "If Ever You're in My Arms Again," "Can You Stop the Rain," "Beauty and the Beast" and "A Whole New World," has died at 75. The South Carolina native built a remarkable career across R&B, pop and adult contemporary music, earning acclaim for his solo work and unforgettable duets with artists including Roberta Flack, Regina Belle, Angela Bofill and Celine Dion. 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 congressional district created after years of voting rights litigation could be at risk following a Supreme Court decision involving Alabama's congressional maps. Voting rights advocates argue the new map weakens Black voting power and could reduce opportunities for Black voters to elect candidates of their choice ahead of future 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.

A report from the Center for American Progress warns that significant reductions in health research funding and public health staffing could have far-reaching effects. Researchers point to cuts involving NIH grants, maternal health programs and workforce shortages among nurses and social workers as major challenges facing the nation's health infrastructure. 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 report from BMO's Real Financial Progress Index finds that dating is becoming increasingly expensive for Americans. The average date now costs nearly $200, while many singles report going on fewer dates and questioning whether the financial investment is worthwhile. Younger generations, in particular, say dating expenses are making it harder to achieve their financial goals. 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 economic data and analysis from the National Urban League and the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies suggest that Black Americans may already be facing recession-level challenges. The report highlights rising unemployment, shrinking economic opportunities and concerns about policy changes that advocates say disproportionately affect Black workers and entrepreneurs. 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.