What Happened in the U.S. Last Week? Key News Updates Beyond Entertainment

Last week in America (May 18–24, 2025), the nation witnessed a powerful mix of political upheaval, economic recalibrations, AI innovation, and bold legislative moves—each shaping the country’s current and future landscape. While mainstream media buzzed with celebrity updates, here’s a closer look at what truly mattered—stories that affected livelihoods, government direction, global trade, and social justice. These key developments, often overshadowed by entertainment headlines, deserve your full attention.

Severe Tornado Outbreaks Devastate the Midwest and Southeast

• Two major tornado outbreaks struck the central and southeastern United States between May 21, resulting in at least 27 fatalities and over 60 injuries. The first wave on May 15–16 produced 55 tornadoes, including a deadly EF4 tornado in Kentucky. The second outbreak from May 18–21 generated more than 109 tornadoes across Kansas, Texas, and Alabama, causing significant property damage and power outages affecting over 115,000 customers.

Trump Administration Imposes 50% Tariff on EU Goods

• President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on all European Union imports, citing trade imbalances. The EU responded by expressing willingness to negotiate but warned against threats, emphasizing the need for mutual respect in trade relations.

Federal Mass Layoffs Initiated Under 'DOGE' Initiative

• The Trump administration commenced significant federal workforce reductions through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk. The initiative aims to streamline government operations by eliminating perceived inefficiencies, with plans for automation and privatization.

Economic Indicators Show Mixed Signals

1. GDP Contraction: The U.S. economy contracted by 0.3% in Q1 2025, attributed to increased imports ahead of tariff implementations and reduced government spending.

2. Job Growth: Despite the GDP decline, the economy added 177,000 jobs in April, surpassing expectations.

3. Inflation Concerns: Inflation rose to 3.6%, complicating the Federal Reserve's plans for potential interest rate adjustments.

AI Advancements Accelerate

Significant developments in artificial intelligence were announced:

1. OpenAI: Acquired Jony Ive's startup, io, for $6.5 billion to develop AI companions and plans a massive data center in Abu Dhabi.

2. Google: Introduced "AI Mode" chatbot and unveiled Veo 3, a powerful video model.

3. Anthropic: Released the Claude 4 series, including the advanced Opus 4 model.

May Day Protests Highlight Labor and Immigration Issues

• On May 1, over 1,000 protests occurred nationwide, organized by labor unions and advocacy groups. Demonstrators opposed the Trump administration's policies on labor rights and immigration, with significant turnouts in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York.

Reassessment of Racial Justice Initiatives

• Five years after George Floyd's death, many initiatives aimed at addressing systemic racism have stalled or been rolled back. Corporate diversity programs have been reduced, and federal accountability measures have been dismantled.

Trump Administration Bars Harvard from Enrolling Foreign Students

• The Trump administration has escalated its crackdown on immigration and international influence by revoking Harvard University's ability to enroll foreign students, citing unsubstantiated claims of ties to anti-American activities and Chinese Communist Party coordination. This move impacts nearly 6,800 international students and threatens Harvard's athletic programs, as nearly 21% of its athletes are from abroad.

House Republicans Pass Sweeping Legislative Bill

• House Republicans narrowly passed a sweeping legislative bill, central to former President Donald Trump's agenda, with a 215-214 vote after marathon negotiations. The bill extends expiring 2017 tax cuts, imposes new Medicaid work requirements, eliminates clean energy tax credits from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, raises state and local tax deductions, and boosts defense spending while initiating significant cuts to social spending.

Medical and Scientific Research Faces Budget Cuts

• The article highlights the critical importance of sustained U.S. investment in basic medical and scientific research, warning that drastic budget cuts threaten America's technological and economic preeminence. It draws parallels to the World War II era, when the U.S. established institutions like the National Science Foundation (NSF) to secure leadership in innovation.

As the week wrapped up, it became clear that America stands at a crossroads—technologically ambitious, politically divided, and socially restless. Whether it’s the drive to dominate in AI, the controversial moves reshaping higher education, or the recalibration of economic policy, every decision made now ripples into the nation’s tomorrow. These aren’t just headlines—they’re signposts of transformation, and staying informed is the first step toward understanding where we’re headed.

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