Today’s Top News Stories – 11am
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Here is a summary of the top news stories for today, May 20, 2026:U.S. Politics & Elections
Primary Election Results: In a closely watched Kentucky Republican primary, Rep. Thomas Massie was defeated by the Trump-backed challenger, Ed Gallrein. In other races, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro ran uncontested in the Democratic primary, and Keisha Lance Bottoms secured the Democratic nomination for Governor of Georgia.
Barney Frank Passes Away: Barney Frank, the influential former Democratic congressman from Massachusetts who was a trailblazer for gay rights and a key architect of financial reform, has died at the age of 86.
Trump’s Proposed IRS Deal: A controversial legal proposal has drawn bipartisan scrutiny, under which President Trump would reportedly drop a $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS in exchange for a $1.7 billion compensation fund for his allies (including some January 6 rioters) and the dropping of tax audits of himself and his family.
Coast Guard Commencement: President Trump is scheduled to deliver the commencement address at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy today.Global Affairs
Indictment of Raúl Castro Expected: U.S. officials in Miami are expected to announce the indictment of Raúl Castro today, relating to the 1996 deadly shootdown of planes operated by the humanitarian group “Brothers to the Rescue.”
Tensions Over Iran: A rift emerged during a House hearing when Admiral Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command, expressed frustration with lawmakers’ criticisms regarding the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran. Meanwhile, the Senate advanced a resolution to block further strikes on Iran with the help of four Republican votes.
Taiwan Arms Purchases: Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te stated that, if given the opportunity, he would inform President Trump of Taiwan’s desire to continue purchasing U.S. arms to counter regional threats.National News & Business
Media Acquisition: News industry scion James Murdoch has purchased New York magazine and the news website Vox.
San Diego Mosque Attack: Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego as a possible hate crime, amid concerns over rising anti-Islam rhetoric.
Public Health: U.S. health officials have ordered the quarantine of two passengers from a cruise ship following an outbreak of hantavirus. Concurrently, global health experts are monitoring a returning Ebola threat in the Democratic Republic of Congo.— Michael Novakhov (@mikenov) May 20, 2026
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