For hantavirus infections, doctors provide supportive care. Evidence doesn’t support ivermectin use

PolitiFact – Rulings and Stories — 2026-05-11 17:52:00 — www.politifact.com

With a fatal hantavirus outbreak setting off public health alarms, could ivermectin be a solution? 
As 18 people who were aboard a hantavirus-stricken cruise ship prepared for their May 11 return to the United States, some on social media said the antiparasitic drug ivermectin could be an effective treatment for hantavirus. 
Only it’s not. We spoke with four doctors who told us there are no specific drugs or cures for hantavirus, which is spread primarily by rodents. But doctors treat hantavirus patients’ symptoms with supportive care, including providing supplemental oxygen or administering blood pressure medication.
One of the U.S.-based passengers tested positive outside the U.S. but isn’t currently experiencing symptoms; another person is displaying some hantavirus symptoms without a clear cause, health officials said. Most of the 18 people were taken to a quarantine unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center; two people were moved to a biocontainment unit at Atlanta’s Emory University. 
U.S. health officials plan to assess passengers for a few days; they will be monitored for 42 days total, either at home or in one of these medical facilities. Nine other people who’d already disembarked from the MV Hondius or been exposed to a confirmed hantavirus case on an international flight are also being monitored across six states.  

American passengers from the cruise ship, MV Hondius that was stricken with hantavirus, arrived in Omaha, Nebraska after flying from Tenerife, Spain, May 11, 2026. (AP)
Q: Is there a treatment for hantavirus infections? 
No, there are no specific treatments for hantavirus infections. 
There are at least 24 types of hantavirus that cause disease in humans, but most of those cannot be transmitted by humans. The Andes hantavirus linked to the cruise ship outbreak is the only strain known to spread from person to person. It belongs to a group of hantaviruses endemic to the Americas.
Its early symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches and gastrointestinal symptoms. Andes hantaviruses typically affect the heart and lungs, through a condition called hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome. Symptoms progress to include cough, shortness of breath, accumulation of fluid in the lungs and shock.
Some research supports using the antiviral drug ribavirin to treat other types of hantavirus infections that can cause kidney failure, but that’s not the kind found aboard the cruise ship. Ribavirin hasn’t been proven effective for viruses that affect the heart and lungs, Harvard Health reported. 
“Some treatments have been studied for different species of hantavirus, but there are no treatments with sufficient evidence to my knowledge at this time,” said Dr. Emily Abdoler, a University of Michigan Medical School clinical medicine professor. 
That’s partly because it’s a rare infection. 
Annually, there are about 300 hantavirus cases across North and South America, which make it difficult to conduct studies that would establish effective treatments, Abdoler said. 
Q: Is there anything doctors can do to help someone with hantavirus?
Yes. We spoke with four physicians who said treatments focus on addressing the complications caused by the illness. 
Doctors can’t cure the infection, but they can often support “normal body functions until the immune response controls and then resolves the viral infection,” said Dr. Anna Wald, a University of Washington School of Medicine professor. 
During severe hantavirus infections, she said, patients might not be able to maintain normal blood pressure or their lungs might stop delivering oxygen to the body. 
“The only treatment we have available is what we call supportive care, such as providing oxygen, monitoring the respiratory status and even intubating the patient if needed,” said Dr. Monica Gandhi, a University of California San Francisco professor of medicine. 
If someone’s blood pressure drops — which can happen when shock sets in — Abdoler said doctors might prescribe medications called vasopressors, which constrict blood vessels. 
The speed and quality of care people receive will affect their survival, said Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a University of California San Francisco professor of medicine.
In some cases, patients with severe illness might need advanced life support such as ECMO or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, which involves pumping blood into a machine outside the body that removes carbon dioxide before sending the newly oxygenated blood back into the person’s body. 
Researchers are also investigating experimental therapies including antivirals, convalescent plasma or monoclonal antibodies, Chin-Hong said. 
Q: Why can’t ivermectin work as a hantavirus treatment, as some people claimed online? 
All four doctors told PolitiFact they knew of no evidence showing that ivermectin would be effective against hantavirus. 
“Ivermectin is an excellent medication for parasitic infections but there is no clinical data that it works against viral infections, including hantavirus,” Wald said. 
Chin-Hong said some people have theorized that ivermectin could have antiviral uses because it blocks a specific protein that some viruses must bring into the nucleus to reproduce there.
“This is not relevant for hantavirus, which can reproduce in other ways, not involving the nucleus,” such as in a cell’s cytoplasm, he said. 
Ivermectin has shown some promising activity in test tubes — not clinical trials — against viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, but not hantaviruses; it hasn’t been studied against hantavirus in any setting, Chin-Hong said.
“I would worry that promoting these messages may lead to false hope and delay access to care,” he said. “In hantavirus, timeliness in receiving care is crucial.” 
RELATED: What is hantavirus? What we know about the fatal cruise ship outbreak 

With a fatal hantavirus outbreak setting off public health alarms, could ivermectin be a solution? As 18 people who were aboard a hantavirus-stricken cruise ship prepared for their May 11 return to the United States, some on social media said the antiparasitic drug ivermectin could be an effective treatment for hantavirus. Only it’s not. We spoke with four doctors who told us there are no specific drugs or cures for hantavirus, which is spread primarily by rodents. But doctors treat hantavirus patients’ symptoms with supportive care, including providing supplemental oxygen or administering blood pressure medication.

One of the U.S.-based passengers tested positive outside the U.S. but isn’t currently experiencing symptoms; another person is displaying some hantavirus symptoms without a clear cause, health officials said. Most of the 18 people were taken to a quarantine unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center; two people were moved to a biocontainment unit at Atlanta’s Emory University. U.S. health officials plan to assess passengers for a few days; they will be monitored for 42 days total, either at home or in one of these medical facilities. Nine other people who’d already disembarked from the MV Hondius or been exposed to a confirmed hantavirus case on an international flight are also being monitored across six states.

American passengers from the cruise ship, MV Hondius that was stricken with hantavirus, arrived in Omaha, Nebraska after flying from Tenerife, Spain, May 11, 2026. (AP)

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The claims surrounding ivermectin as a treatment for hantavirus have been firmly debunked by medical professionals. The report indicates that there are no specific treatments for hantavirus infections, which primarily affect the heart and lungs and can lead to severe complications. Doctors emphasize that supportive care is the only available option, which includes monitoring and managing symptoms rather than curing the infection itself. The Andes hantavirus, linked to the recent outbreak, is the only strain known to spread from person to person, and its treatment options remain limited.

The excerpt highlights the rarity of hantavirus infections, with only about 300 cases reported annually across North and South America, making it challenging to conduct studies that could lead to effective treatments. The medical consensus is clear: ivermectin is not effective against viral infections like hantavirus, and promoting it as a treatment could mislead patients and delay necessary medical care.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

The excerpt does not present any statements from Donald Trump or any claims attributed to him that can be classified as false or misleading. Instead, it focuses on the misinformation circulating on social media regarding ivermectin as a treatment for hantavirus. The medical professionals consulted in the report provide a clear counter to these claims, stating that there is no clinical data supporting the use of ivermectin for viral infections, including hantavirus.

The report underscores the importance of relying on verified medical advice and the potential dangers of misinformation, particularly in the context of a public health crisis.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not show Donald Trump singling out, insulting, or speaking in a hostile way about any specific individuals or groups. Instead, it focuses on the medical community’s response to misinformation regarding treatment options for hantavirus. There is no disparaging language or hostile rhetoric directed at any person or group within the provided text.

In summary, readers should understand that the claims about ivermectin as a treatment for hantavirus are unfounded and unsupported by medical evidence. The excerpt emphasizes the critical need for accurate information during health emergencies and the potential risks associated with misinformation.

Source: https://www.politifact.com/article/2026/may/11/hantavirus-outbreak-treatments-ivermectin/

Comey says he's not going to stop criticizing Trump ahead of criminal trial

Administration News — 2026-05-11 19:41:00 — thehill.com

Former FBI Director James Comey said Monday that he won’t stop criticizing President Trump ahead of a criminal trial against him over charges of threatening the president. “I’m not going to be quiet. I’m going to continue to speak about what I believe,” Comey told MS NOW’s Nicolle Wallace. ” … Donald Trump has a…
Former FBI Director James Comey has made it clear that he will not hold back in his criticism of Donald Trump, especially as the former president faces a criminal trial related to charges of threatening him. In an interview with Nicolle Wallace on MS NOW, Comey stated, “I’m not going to be quiet. I’m going to continue to speak about what I believe.” This declaration underscores the ongoing tension surrounding Trump’s legal challenges and the broader implications for accountability in political discourse.

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The excerpt does not provide specific claims made by Trump that can be assessed for accuracy. Instead, it focuses on Comey’s commitment to speaking out against Trump. To evaluate any claims made by Trump, one would need direct statements or assertions from him that could be fact-checked. The excerpt does not include any corrections or denials regarding Trump’s statements, leaving readers without a clear understanding of the factual landscape surrounding the allegations against him.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

There are no statements from Trump included in the excerpt that can be classified as false or misleading. Without specific claims from Trump to analyze, there is no evidence of lies or inaccuracies presented. For a thorough examination, readers would need to reference direct quotes or assertions made by Trump that are not present in this snippet.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not indicate that Trump has singled out or insulted any specific individuals or groups. Instead, it centers on Comey’s resolve to continue speaking out against Trump. There is no evidence of disparaging or hostile rhetoric from Trump within the provided text, which focuses primarily on Comey’s perspective.

In summary, this excerpt highlights Comey’s determination to voice his beliefs regarding Trump amid ongoing legal issues. However, it lacks specific claims from Trump that could be scrutinized for accuracy or accountability. As the situation evolves, the need for clear, verifiable statements from Trump remains crucial for understanding the broader implications of his actions and rhetoric.

Source: https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5873291-comey-wont-stop-trump-criticism/

A nonprofit sues the feds over plans to paint the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool blue : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-05-11 19:10:00 — www.npr.org

With a blue sky above the Lincoln Memorial, people walk along the reflection pool in Washington, D.C., on June 9, 2023.

Jose Luis Magana/AP

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Jose Luis Magana/AP

A nonprofit is suing the National Park Service, the Department of the Interior and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum over the decision to resurface the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool at Washington D.C.’s National Mall, and to paint the pool’s basin blue. The suit was filed Monday in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia by The Cultural Landscape Foundation (TCLF), an education and advocacy organization. In the suit, TCLF is asking a federal judge to halt the project, saying that the Trump administration failed to have the project reviewed federally, as is dictated by the National Historic Preservation Act.

President Trump revealed his plans for the pool do-over last month in “American flag blue,” saying that the project would take one week and $2 million, and that it would be completed in time for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4. A few days later on Truth Social, the president posted a fake image of himself and several of his administration officials in swimsuits, along with an unidentified woman in a gingham bikini, lounging in the water with the Washington National Monument at the rear. (Swimming in the reflecting pool is prohibited by federal law.)

In a YouTube video posted by the White House on April 23, Trump called the pool “filthy dirty” and said it “leaked like a sieve.” In that video, Trump said he was going to call three companies that he has worked with in the past – “all they do is swimming pools” – and say, “Give me a good price.” The New York Times reported last Friday that the contract for the reflecting pool’s resurfacing was awarded in a $6.9 million no-bid contract to a company called Atlantic Industrial Coatings, which previously has never held any federal contracts. An employee at the Atlantic Industrial Coatings confirmed in a telephone call on Monday that it has been contracted for this project, but referred all other questions to the Department of the Interior.

The Times reported on Monday that the final cost of the project could be upward of $13 million, per documents it says it has obtained. The Department of the Interior did not confirm the cost of the project, but wrote: “The contract price reflects the effort necessary to expedite the timeline of completing the leak prevention coating project—more people, more materials, more equipment and longer hours ahead of our 250th.” In an unsigned statement emailed to NPR Monday afternoon, the Interior Department wrote: “The National Park Service chose the best company to expedite the repair of the iconic Reflecting Pool ahead of our 250 celebrations. The choice of American Flag Blue will enhance the visitor experience by making the pool reflect the grand Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument. NPS is also investing in a state-of-the-art ozone nanobubbler filtration system and will now have a dedicated crew who will maintain the grounds’ from wildlife. The Department is proud of the work being carried out by our Park Service to ensure this magical spot can be enjoyed for not only our 250th, but for many generations to come.” Critics of the project, including TCLF, don’t share that vision – and are taking particular umbrage at the color. “The reflecting pool should not be viewed in isolation; it is part of the larger ensemble of designed landscapes that comprise the National Mall,” Charles A. Birnbaum, the president and CEO of TCLF, said in a statement emailed to NPR Monday. “The design intent, to create a reflective surface that is subordinate, is fundamental to the solemn and hallowed visual and spatial connection between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. A blue-tinted basin is more appropriate to a resort or theme park.” The National Park Service regularly cleans out algae, goose droppings and other detritus from the reflecting pool. The last major renovation of the reflecting pool, which included the installation of a new circulation and filtration system, took place during the Obama administration at a reported cost of $34 million.

Before founding TCLF in 2008, Birnbaum served for 15 years as the coordinator of the Historic Landscape Initiative for the National Park Service.

TCLF has another open lawsuit against the federal administration: it is one of eight cultural and architecture groups currently suing President Trump and the Kennedy Center board over the planned renovations of the complex, which are planned to start in July.

A nonprofit is suing the National Park Service, the Department of the Interior, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum over the decision to resurface the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., and to paint the pool’s basin blue. The Cultural Landscape Foundation (TCLF) filed the suit in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, claiming that the Trump administration failed to have the project federally reviewed as required by the National Historic Preservation Act.

President Trump announced plans for the pool renovation last month, stating it would be completed in “American flag blue” within a week and at a cost of $2 million, aiming for the project to be finished by the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4. Shortly after, he posted a digitally altered image on Truth Social showing himself and several administration officials in swimsuits, which is particularly notable as swimming in the reflecting pool is prohibited by federal law. In a video released by the White House, Trump described the pool as “filthy dirty” and claimed it “leaked like a sieve,” expressing his intent to contact companies he had previously worked with to get a good price for the renovation.

The New York Times reported that the resurfacing contract was awarded as a $6.9 million no-bid contract to Atlantic Industrial Coatings, a company with no prior federal contracts. The final cost of the project could exceed $13 million, according to documents obtained by the Times. The Department of the Interior has not confirmed this cost but stated that the contract price reflects the necessary efforts to expedite the project. Critics, including TCLF, have expressed strong opposition to the color choice, arguing that it detracts from the solemnity of the National Mall’s landscape.

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The claims made by Trump regarding the renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool suggest a quick and cost-effective solution to a longstanding issue. However, the lawsuit filed by TCLF raises questions about the legality of the process followed by the Trump administration, specifically regarding the lack of federal review mandated by the National Historic Preservation Act. For these claims to be well-supported, one would typically expect documentation confirming the project’s compliance with federal regulations, as well as transparency regarding the bidding process for the contract awarded to Atlantic Industrial Coatings.

The excerpt does not provide any outside verification of Trump’s statements about the pool’s condition or the timeline and cost of the renovation. Instead, it highlights the controversy surrounding the project and the opposition from TCLF, which argues that the proposed changes undermine the historical significance of the reflecting pool.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

The excerpt does not explicitly identify any statements made by Trump as false or misleading. However, it does highlight the controversy surrounding the project, particularly the legal challenges posed by TCLF regarding the administration’s failure to follow proper review procedures. The claims about the pool being “filthy dirty” and “leaking like a sieve” are presented as Trump’s opinions, and there is no evidence within the excerpt to confirm or refute these assertions. Readers would need additional documentation or expert analysis to assess the accuracy of Trump’s statements about the pool’s condition.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not show Trump singling out or insulting specific individuals or groups. Instead, it focuses on the legal and administrative aspects of the renovation project and the criticisms from TCLF regarding the proposed changes. Trump’s comments about the pool’s condition do not contain disparaging language directed at any identifiable targets. The tone remains factual and centered on the implications of the project rather than personal attacks.

In summary, this item underscores the ongoing legal disputes surrounding the renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, highlighting the potential missteps of the Trump administration in handling the project. While Trump’s statements about the pool’s condition are noted, the excerpt does not provide definitive evidence to classify them as false or misleading. The controversy over the project’s execution and its implications for the National Mall’s historical integrity remains a significant point of contention.

Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/05/11/g-s1-121548/a-nonprofit-has-sued-the-federal-government-over-its-plans-to-paint-the-lincoln-memorial-reflecting-pool-blue

Lawsuit seeks to halt Trump's makeover of Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool

US politics | The Guardian — 2026-05-11 14:25:00 — www.theguardian.com

The Cultural Landscape Foundation seeks to block the replacement of pool’s ‘gray stone’ appearanceA historic preservation group on Monday filed a lawsuit seeking to halt Donald Trump’s ongoing renovation to the Lincoln Memorial’s reflecting pool, the latest in a string of court challenges to efforts to remake Washington DC landmarks from the US president and former real estate developer.The lawsuit, filed by the Cultural Landscape Foundation, alleged the renovation violates the National Historic Preservation Act, a law passed by Congress in 1996 that outlines procedures for changes to historic properties.Guardian staff contributed Continue reading…
A historic preservation group has filed a lawsuit aimed at halting Donald Trump’s ongoing renovation of the Lincoln Memorial’s reflecting pool. This legal action is part of a broader series of challenges against Trump’s efforts to alter iconic landmarks in Washington, D.C. The Cultural Landscape Foundation claims that the renovation violates the National Historic Preservation Act, which was enacted to protect historic properties from inappropriate changes.

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The lawsuit filed by the Cultural Landscape Foundation asserts that Trump’s renovation work on the reflecting pool is in violation of established legal protections for historic sites. To substantiate such claims, one would typically expect detailed evidence demonstrating how the renovations contravene the specific provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act. However, the excerpt does not provide any additional context or verification regarding the specifics of the alleged violations or the nature of the renovations themselves.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

The excerpt does not present any statements from Trump that are explicitly identified as false or misleading. Instead, it focuses on the legal challenge posed by the Cultural Landscape Foundation regarding the renovation’s compliance with federal law. Without further details or evidence, readers cannot ascertain the veracity of the claims made in the lawsuit or whether Trump’s actions are indeed in violation of the law.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not indicate that Trump has directed any disparaging or hostile remarks toward individuals or groups in the context of this lawsuit. It primarily discusses the legal implications of his renovation efforts without any evidence of derogatory language or personal attacks.

In conclusion, the ongoing legal battle over Trump’s renovation of the Lincoln Memorial’s reflecting pool raises significant questions about the preservation of historic sites. While the lawsuit claims violations of federal law, the excerpt does not provide sufficient detail to evaluate the merits of these allegations or any statements made by Trump. Readers are left to consider the implications of altering such a significant landmark without clear accountability for the actions taken.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/may/11/trump-lincoln-memorial-reflecting-pool-makeover

Trump nominates Cameron Hamilton to lead FEMA, a year after he was fired from the role

PBS NewsHour – Politics — 2026-05-11 16:05:00 — www.pbs.org

President Donald Trump nominated Cameron Hamilton Monday to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a surprising comeback for the former Navy SEAL who was fired from his role as FEMA’s temporary leader last year after he defended its existence.
His nomination comes as the Trump administration has increasingly signaled it is backing away from promises to dismantle FEMA, an agency that has faced withering criticism by the president. The nomination of Hamilton, who argued abolishing FEMA was not in the country’s best interests, is the latest indication of that change.

If confirmed, Hamilton would be the principal adviser to Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin on emergency management and FEMA’s first permanent administrator in Trump’s second term. The agency has gone through three temporary leaders, including Hamilton’s brief tenure from January to May 2025.
He would take over an embattled agency still reeling from Kristi Noem’s turbulent leadership of the Department of Homeland Security, of which FEMA is part. FEMA’s workforce has been worn down by mass staff departures, policies that hamstrung operations and a 75-day-long DHS shutdown that ended Apr. 30.
Hamilton will need to ensure the agency is prepared for summer disaster season, just weeks away, while answering to Trump, who is likely to expect major reforms after a council he appointed recommended sweeping changes last Friday.
Watch the segment in the player above.
“Now is the opportunity to stabilize FEMA,” said Michael Coen, the agency’s chief of staff in the Obama and Biden administrations.
Fired after defending FEMA
Hamilton, who had never been a state or local emergency management director and who had publicly criticized FEMA in the past, was a controversial choice when Trump named him temporary leader in January 2025, just days before the president floated the idea of “getting rid” of FEMA.
His rupture with DHS officials began as he defended a federal role in supporting disaster-impacted states, tribes and territories.
“Once the conversation shifted to, ‘Now we’re going to abolish,’ I immediately expressed concern,” he said last September on the “Disaster Tough” podcast with John Scardena, a former FEMA incident management team leader.
DHS officials even subjected him to a polygraph test, accusing him and other officials of leaking details of a private meeting. He passed, but said he knew his dismissal was inevitable.
At a May 7 appearance before a House Appropriations subcommittee, Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, asked Hamilton if he believed FEMA should be abolished.
“I do not believe it is in the best interest of the American people to eliminate the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” he replied. The next day, he was fired.
Hamilton will have to rebuild trust
Defending FEMA despite knowing it would likely cost him his job garnered respect and trust among people whose job it is to lead communities through crisis, said Scardena, now president of the consultancy Doberman Emergency Management Group, which trains emergency managers.
“He won myself over and I think a lot of people by what he did,” Scardena said.
But multiple current FEMA employees who requested anonymity for fear of retribution for speaking publicly told The Associated Press they had concerns over some of the actions taken under Hamilton.
In 2024, Hamilton shared posts on X promoting misinformation about FEMA spending during Hurricane Helene.
During his temporary leadership, FEMA ceased door-to-door canvassing to reach survivors after disasters, and canceled a multibillion-dollar resilience grant program, since restored by a federal judge. The Department of Government Efficiency gained access to internal FEMA networks containing survivors’ private information. FEMA staff were fired for fulfilling a reimbursement payment to New York City for housing undocumented immigrants as part of FEMA’s Shelter and Services program.
Hamilton has said he believes FEMA needs major reform. He has said that he wants FEMA to move faster, that the agency is saddled with responsibilities he sees as outside its remit, and that some states have become too dependent on the agency. A Trump-appointed council last week urged sweeping changes to FEMA, which would require congressional action.
“I think he’s going to need to rebuild trust across the agency,” said Deanne Criswell, FEMA administrator under former President Joe Biden, adding that she believes Hamilton cares about FEMA and she appreciated his outreach to emergency management directors and former officials during and after his tenure.
Senate confirmation process could raise questions of experience
Hamilton could face pushback in the Senate confirmation process over never having led an emergency management agency, a common stepping stone to becoming administrator of an agency with over 21,000 employees.
Federal law requires the FEMA administrator to have “a demonstrated ability in and knowledge of emergency management and homeland security” and at least five years of “executive leadership and management experience.”
Hamilton trained as a Navy hospital corpsman before spending a decade as a Navy SEAL on SEAL Team Eight. He then became a U.S. State Department emergency management specialist handling overseas crisis response, then directed emergency medical services at DHS.

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President Donald Trump nominated Cameron Hamilton Monday to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), marking a surprising return for the former Navy SEAL who was dismissed from his temporary role last year after he defended the agency’s existence. This nomination signals a shift in the Trump administration’s stance, which had previously indicated a desire to dismantle FEMA, an agency that has faced significant criticism from the president. Hamilton’s nomination, which comes after he argued that abolishing FEMA was not in the nation’s best interests, reflects this change in direction.

If confirmed, Hamilton would serve as the principal adviser to Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin on emergency management, becoming FEMA’s first permanent administrator in Trump’s second term. The agency has experienced instability, having cycled through three temporary leaders, including Hamilton’s own brief tenure from January to May 2025. He will take over an agency that is still recovering from the tumultuous leadership of Kristi Noem at the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees FEMA. The agency’s workforce has been strained by mass staff departures, operational challenges, and a lengthy DHS shutdown that recently concluded.

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The excerpt outlines Trump’s nomination of Cameron Hamilton to lead FEMA, highlighting Hamilton’s previous dismissal for defending the agency. It indicates that the Trump administration is reconsidering its earlier position on FEMA, which had been characterized by calls for its abolition. For such claims to be well-supported, there would typically need to be evidence of a clear policy shift or statements from Trump or his administration that explicitly confirm this change in direction regarding FEMA’s future.

The excerpt does not provide outside verification for these claims, nor does it include any direct statements from Trump that would confirm or contradict the characterization of his views on FEMA. Instead, it presents Hamilton’s perspective on the necessity of FEMA and the implications of his previous dismissal, which adds context but does not serve as a definitive verification of Trump’s stance.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

The excerpt does not present any statements from Trump that are shown to be false or misleading. It discusses Hamilton’s previous defense of FEMA and his subsequent firing, but it does not provide evidence of any specific lies or inaccuracies in Trump’s statements regarding FEMA. Therefore, there are no verifiable lies to address based on the content provided.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not indicate that Trump has singled out, insulted, or demeaned any specific individuals or groups. It focuses on Hamilton’s nomination and the context surrounding FEMA without including any disparaging remarks or hostile rhetoric from Trump. The language used is neutral and factual, primarily discussing the implications of Hamilton’s nomination and the challenges facing FEMA.

In summary, the nomination of Cameron Hamilton to lead FEMA reflects a notable shift in the Trump administration’s approach to the agency, moving away from previous calls for its dismantling. However, the excerpt lacks direct evidence of Trump’s statements or actions that would clarify his current stance on FEMA, leaving some questions about the administration’s intentions unresolved.

Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-nominates-cameron-hamilton-to-lead-fema-a-year-after-he-was-fired-from-the-role

Senate G.O.P. Stands by Security Money for Trump’s Ballroom

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-05-11 16:53:00 — www.nytimes.com

Democrats are trying to stoke public opposition to the project as they take aim at legislation to provide nearly $72 billion for the administration’s immigration crackdown.
Democrats are trying to stoke public opposition to the project as they take aim at legislation to provide nearly $72 billion for the administration’s immigration crackdown. This legislative push has sparked significant debate, with claims and counterclaims emerging about its implications and effectiveness.

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The excerpt indicates that Democrats are actively working to generate public dissent against a substantial immigration funding initiative proposed by the administration. The claim suggests that the legislation, which amounts to nearly $72 billion, is intended to bolster immigration enforcement measures. To assess the validity of such claims, one would typically require evidence demonstrating the specific impacts of the proposed funding, including data on immigration trends and enforcement outcomes. However, the excerpt does not provide any external verification or detailed analysis of the legislation’s potential effects.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

The excerpt does not present any statements from Trump that are explicitly labeled as false or misleading. It focuses on the actions of Democrats in relation to the immigration funding legislation without providing specific claims made by Trump that could be verified or disputed. Therefore, there are no clear instances of falsehoods or corrections regarding Trump’s statements within the provided text.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not indicate any instances of Trump singling out or disparaging specific individuals or groups. It centers on the political maneuvering of Democrats concerning the immigration funding legislation without detailing any hostile rhetoric or demeaning language attributed to Trump. There is no evidence of disparagement or hostility in the text.

In summary, while the excerpt highlights a significant legislative effort and the political dynamics surrounding it, it lacks specific claims from Trump that could be scrutinized for accuracy or tone. Readers should note the absence of direct accountability regarding Trump’s statements or actions in this context, leaving questions about the broader implications of the proposed immigration funding unresolved.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/11/us/politics/trump-white-house-ballroom.html

Democrats express ‘grave concerns’ over secretive ICE deportation flights | US immigration

US politics | The Guardian — 2026-05-11 15:14:00 — www.theguardian.com

The Trump administration’s approach to immigration enforcement has come under intense scrutiny as a group of 40 House Democrats has raised “grave concerns” regarding the administration’s secretive deportation flight program. In a letter addressed to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the lawmakers demand transparency about the conditions and operations of ICE charter flights, citing allegations of mistreatment and inhumane conditions. They highlight troubling reports that individuals have been placed on flights without notice to their legal counsel or family members, effectively disappearing from public view. This lack of oversight raises significant due process concerns, as families are left searching for their loved ones and attorneys are denied the opportunity to intervene.

The letter references an investigation by the Guardian, which revealed that the Trump administration’s practices often violated the constitutional rights of detained immigrants. It also notes a significant increase in the number of ICE flights, with human rights groups tracking an 84% rise from the previous year. The lawmakers emphasize the urgent need for the FAA to provide detailed reports on all ICE air operations since Trump took office, including flight data that has been obscured from public tracking systems. The administration has previously dismissed claims of “hidden” deportation flights as “categorically false,” asserting that its detention centers maintain higher standards than most U.S. prisons.

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The claims made by the House Democrats center on the lack of transparency and oversight regarding ICE’s deportation flights, which they argue have led to serious violations of due process. To substantiate such claims, one would typically expect corroborating evidence such as independent investigations, documented testimonies from affected individuals, or official reports from oversight agencies. The letter itself cites credible reports and an investigation by the Guardian, which indicates that the administration’s practices may not align with constitutional protections for detained immigrants. However, the excerpt does not provide external verification or detailed evidence to fully support these claims.

The Trump administration has countered allegations regarding the deportation flights, labeling them as “categorically false” and asserting that its detention facilities adhere to high standards. This denial suggests a significant divergence between the administration’s narrative and the concerns raised by lawmakers. The absence of independent verification within the excerpt leaves readers wanting more concrete evidence to assess the validity of the claims made by both sides.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

The excerpt does not present any explicit statements from Trump that are shown to be false or retracted within the text. Instead, it outlines the concerns of lawmakers regarding the administration’s practices without providing definitive evidence that would categorize Trump’s statements as lies. The administration’s assertion that claims of hidden deportation flights are “categorically false” stands unchallenged by direct evidence in the excerpt, leaving the dispute unresolved. Readers would need access to independent investigations or official reports to evaluate the truthfulness of the claims made by both the lawmakers and the Trump administration.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not indicate that Trump has singled out, insulted, or demeaned specific individuals or groups in a hostile manner. Instead, it focuses on the broader implications of the administration’s immigration policies and the impact on detained immigrants and their families. The language used by lawmakers reflects serious concerns about the treatment of individuals within the deportation system rather than personal attacks on Trump or his administration.

In summary, the concerns raised by House Democrats about the Trump administration’s deportation flights highlight significant issues regarding transparency and due process. However, the excerpt does not provide sufficient evidence to definitively categorize any statements by Trump as false or misleading. The ongoing debate over these practices underscores the need for accountability and oversight in immigration enforcement.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/may/11/ice-deportation-flights-democrats-letter

Cost of Reflecting Pool Repairs Nearly Doubles, Trump Administration Says

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-05-11 09:50:00 — www.nytimes.com

A no-bid contract for repairs to the Lincoln Memorial pool now costs $13.1 million, far more than the $1.8 million Mr. Trump initially said it would. This significant discrepancy raises questions about the accuracy of Trump’s earlier claims regarding the cost of the project, highlighting the need for accountability in public statements made by influential figures.

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The excerpt indicates that a no-bid contract for repairs to the Lincoln Memorial pool has escalated to a cost of $13.1 million. In contrast, Mr. Trump previously asserted that the cost would only be $1.8 million. For claims like these to be considered well-supported, one would typically expect detailed documentation or verification from relevant authorities outlining the reasons for such a substantial increase in costs. However, the excerpt does not provide any external verification or context to support either figure.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

Based solely on the excerpt, Trump’s earlier claim that the repairs would cost $1.8 million is contradicted by the current figure of $13.1 million. This stark difference indicates that his statement was inaccurate. However, the excerpt does not include any corrections or retractions from Trump regarding this claim, leaving the matter of accountability open.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not show Trump singling out or disparaging any specific individuals or groups. There is no hostile rhetoric or demeaning language directed at others within the provided text. The focus remains solely on the financial claims related to the Lincoln Memorial pool repairs.

In conclusion, the significant gap between Trump’s initial claim and the current contract amount underscores the importance of scrutinizing public statements for accuracy. While the excerpt reveals a clear discrepancy, it does not provide further context or responses from Trump, leaving readers with unanswered questions about the reliability of his assertions.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/11/us/politics/reflecting-pool-paint-contract-trump.html

What Americans mean when they say they’re worried about a stolen election

Politics — 2026-05-10 09:00:00 — www.politico.com

Questions about the integrity of elections have become pervasive in American politics — and new polling reveals the sharp differences in Republican and Democratic fears. Nearly six years after President Donald Trump and his allies sought to overturn the results of the 2020 election, a recent POLITICO Poll suggests that a notable number of Americans are distrustful of the system heading into November. More than one-third say it is likely the 2026 midterms will be “stolen,” and one in four say they don’t expect the elections to be fair. But both parties clash strongly over what they believe are the core problems with U.S. elections, complicating any path to restoring voter trust. Democrats are concerned about voter intimidation and suppression, with 58 percent of those who voted for former Vice President Kamala Harris worried that eligible Americans will be prevented from voting, the survey finds. Meanwhile, Republicans remain focused on the possibility of fraud, with 52 percent of Trump voters saying they are concerned that some ineligible people will be allowed to vote.

The POLITICO Poll asked respondents about 11 common election concerns, ranging from partisan gerrymandering to impounding ballots, and whether people saw them as legitimate parts of the process or a way to rig elections. Of those, Democrats and Republicans had meaningful disagreement or lacked consensus on six. Take expanding mail-in voting, for example. Once considered a largely routine way to broaden access to voting, a majority of Trump voters now say this can be a way to rig elections. Harris voters feel the opposite: 59 percent say expanding mail-in voting is a normally fair or always fair part of the electoral system. Then there’s deploying ICE at polling locations. A majority of Harris voters say the practice would more likely be a way to sway election results, even as some Republicans haven’t ruled out such a measure to strengthen election security. A 47 percent plurality of Trump voters say deploying ICE across polling stations would be normally fair or always fair.

The poll results reveal a striking truth as lawmakers continue to battle over election security: Even as a sizable share of Americans believe elections can, or will, be “stolen,” there’s very little agreement on what that even means. “I don’t think that we have a great working definition of what constitutes … a free and fair election,” said Stephen Richer, a legal fellow at the Cato Institute and former Republican county recorder of Maricopa County, Arizona. “I think it is entirely possible that even within the world that doesn’t think that elections are being hacked by Italian spy satellites, that we have a disagreement as to whether or not we’ve had a free and fair election in 2026.” Trump often claims the 2020 results were “stolen” and blames mail voting, the lack of strict voter ID and proof of citizenship laws for opening the door to voter fraud — though courts and election officials have repeatedly upheld the legitimacy of those results. Many Democrats, on the other hand, are already bracing for Trump to interfere with the election and strategizing about ways to respond. “President Trump is committed to ensuring that Americans have full confidence in the administration of elections, and that includes totally accurate and up-to-date voter rolls free of errors and unlawfully registered non-citizen voters,” White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in a statement.

Doubt about election proceedings has still not overtaken the electorate — nearly half of Americans say they still expect the 2026 midterms to be fair. But the survey — along with interviews with election experts — underscores how rhetoric from leaders is trickling down to voters. David Becker, the executive director and founder of the nonpartisan Center for Election Innovation & Research, said the divergence results partly from the strict echo chambers within the Democratic and Republican parties. “This goes back to the problem where many of us are retreating into our media bubbles, where we hear a reality that only serves to validate our existing opinions,” he said. For Democrats, their doubts appear to be going up as Trump continues to repeat false claims about the 2020 election and raise alarms about the 2026 midterms. Nearly 40 percent of Harris voters say it is likely the 2026 midterms will be “stolen,” compared to 16 percent who believed the 2020 election was stolen — though comparing perspectives on a past election to a future one is not an exact measure. That’s roughly the same level as Trump voters who doubt the integrity of the 2020 results or who fear the 2026 midterms will be stolen — both at around 40 percent — according to the poll results.

The survey finds that some of the most significant areas of disagreement or distance between the parties are the prospect of ICE showing up at polls, mail-in voting, and requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote. Roughly 60 percent of Harris voters say ICE showing up at polling places would normally or always be a way to steal elections, compared to 33 percent of Trump voters who say the same. The Trump administration has insisted that immigration officers will not be at polling places in November, but many Democrats have still expressed concern over the possibility. In March, nine state secretaries of state wrote a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin seeking confirmation that immigration agents would not be present at polling locations in November. “If you have ICE outside of a handful of voting locations, I think that there are some on the left of the pro-democracy coalition, or the previously existing pro-democracy coalition, who would say that it invalidates the fairness of an election,” Richer said. “And then there are those of us who would say … it’s not ideal, and there are legal remedies, but that doesn’t mean that the election was stolen or should be thrown out.” The 2020 election marked a major turning point in rhetoric surrounding mail-in voting, when Trump repeatedly criticized the practice during the COVID-19 pandemic — allegations he has continued to press in the years since. Roughly 55 percent of Harris voters say banning mail-in voting could lead to a rigged election, while Trump voters are split on the issue: 41 percent say banning mail-in voting would largely be fair, while 42 percent say this would be a way to steal an election. And then there’s the question of voter registration, and whether to require proof of citizenship when voters register — a core objective of Trump’s SAVE America Act. Just under two-thirds of Trump voters say this would always or normally be a fair part of the election process. A plurality of Harris voters agree, but by a much smaller margin: 44 percent say this would be a fair election practice. Even the idea of voter roll maintenance — a common part of election administration that Trump’s Justice Department has intensified by aiming to strip non-citizens from every state’s rolls — shows a partisan gap. Roughly 60 percent of Harris voters say the practice of “purging voter rolls” is normally or always a way to steal an election, compared to just 46 percent of Trump voters. There are areas where the parties agree. Pluralities or majorities of both groups agree that same-day voter registration and signing up new voters outside of churches are largely fair. Majorities of both Trump and Harris voters say partisan gerrymandering can be a way to steal elections, which comes as officials in both parties engage in an intensifying redistricting arms race. There is also a near-majority consensus that seizing or impounding ballots can be a way to rig results. Earlier this year, the FBI seized 2020 election ballots from the Fulton County elections office in Georgia, and a federal judge recently ruled that the Justice Department can keep the election records as part of its search. Still, election experts say the overall partisan divide is dampening voters’ confidence. “We’ve now had multiple years in a row of state legislators passing and introducing and passing laws that are targeting voter access — making it harder to participate in the electoral process — where the actual mechanics of elections have been politicized, and that too takes its toll,” said Wendy Weiser, the Brennan Center for Justice’s vice president for democracy.

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The excerpt highlights significant concerns regarding the integrity of upcoming elections, particularly the 2026 midterms. It notes that many Americans, influenced by the rhetoric surrounding the 2020 election, are skeptical about the fairness of future elections. The claims made by Trump regarding the 2020 election being “stolen” are mentioned, alongside the assertion that courts and election officials have upheld the legitimacy of those results. This context suggests a divide in public perception, with a notable number of voters expressing distrust in the electoral process.

To treat Trump’s claims as well-supported, one would need evidence directly linking his assertions about election fraud to verifiable incidents or data. The excerpt does not provide such verification; instead, it presents a landscape of public opinion shaped by ongoing political discourse. The lack of consensus on what constitutes a fair election further complicates the narrative, indicating that many voters are influenced by partisan perspectives rather than objective assessments of electoral integrity.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

The excerpt does not establish any verifiable lies related to Trump’s claims about the 2020 election. While it notes that Trump has repeatedly asserted that the election was “stolen,” it also emphasizes that courts and election officials have upheld the legitimacy of the results. This indicates a dispute rather than a confirmed falsehood, as the excerpt does not provide evidence that directly contradicts Trump’s statements. Instead, it reflects a broader narrative of division in public opinion regarding election integrity.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not demonstrate Trump engaging in disparaging or hostile rhetoric towards specific individuals or groups. While it discusses his claims about the election and the context in which they are made, it does not include any language that would be considered insulting or demeaning. The focus remains on the broader implications of his statements and the public’s reaction, rather than on personal attacks or derogatory remarks.

In summary, readers should recognize the ongoing tension surrounding election integrity as reflected in public opinion and political discourse. The excerpt illustrates a divided landscape where perceptions of fairness and legitimacy are heavily influenced by partisan viewpoints, leaving many questions about the future of electoral trust unresolved.

Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/05/10/poll-voters-stolen-election-concerns-00913086

Advocates decry Trump’s plan to open 24m acres of federal lands to cattle grazing | Trump administration

US politics | The Guardian — 2026-05-11 07:00:00 — www.theguardian.com

New legal action aims to head off a Trump administration plan to open up to 24 million acres of federal lands to cattle grazing, which opponents have characterized as a gift to big agriculture. Critics warn that this plan could lead to a spike in deaths among already imperiled species such as wolves, grizzlies, and steelhead salmon. The proposal includes opening parts of the Grand Canyon National Park and other sensitive landscapes, raising significant environmental concerns. Cattle grazing is known to destroy critical habitats by stripping land of essential vegetation and polluting streams with waste. Furthermore, park rangers and ranchers often kill predators like grizzly bears who prey on cattle, despite the fact that these cattle have been pushed into the predators’ home ranges.

The Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) alleges that the Trump administration fast-tracked this plan without proper consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which is mandated by the Endangered Species Act to review the plan’s impact on protected species. Andrea Zaccardi, the carnivore conservation legal director at CBD, stated, “The federal grazing program is already a disaster for endangered species and the places they live. Expanding grazing across 24 million more acres will make that devastation even worse and likely drive more animals and plants to extinction.” The Bureau of Land Management has indicated that the new policy aims to maximize livestock use across vast western rangelands, despite the potential harm to wildlife.

How this sits against verifiable accuracy

The claims surrounding the Trump administration’s grazing plan highlight significant environmental risks, particularly regarding endangered species. The excerpt indicates that the administration’s approach could exacerbate existing threats to wildlife habitats, which are already under pressure from livestock grazing. To substantiate these claims, one would typically need data from environmental studies, assessments from wildlife agencies, or legal documents that outline the implications of the grazing expansion. The excerpt does not provide external verification or detailed evidence to support the allegations made by the CBD regarding the administration’s failure to consult with necessary agencies.

What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies

The excerpt does not present any statements from Trump that are explicitly labeled as false or misleading. Instead, it focuses on allegations made by the CBD regarding the administration’s actions and the potential consequences of the grazing plan. The claims about the environmental impact of livestock grazing and the administration’s lack of consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are presented as concerns rather than confirmed inaccuracies. Therefore, readers are left without definitive evidence of falsehoods directly tied to Trump’s statements.

Targets and tone

The excerpt does not indicate that Trump has singled out or insulted specific individuals or groups. Instead, it discusses the implications of his administration’s policies on wildlife and ecosystems. The language used is primarily focused on the environmental consequences of the grazing plan rather than any disparaging remarks directed at particular groups or individuals. There is no evidence of hostility or derogatory comments in the provided text.

In summary, the concerns raised about the Trump administration’s grazing plan underscore significant environmental implications that could affect endangered species and their habitats. However, the excerpt does not provide clear evidence of false statements or hostile rhetoric from Trump himself, leaving some questions about the administration’s motivations and the potential consequences of its actions unresolved.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/may/11/trump-plans-24m-acres-federal-lands-cattle-grazing