AURN News
News & Politics
About
AURN News brings you the stories that matter to Black America. Since 1973, American Urban Radio Networks has amplified Black voices and covered the issues that shape our lives. As the only Black-owned media network with a White House bureau, AURN delivers trusted, timely news from Capitol Hill, as well as This Day in History, health & wellness, finance, education, technology, and entertainment. Join journalists Ebony McMorris, Clay Cane, Jamie Jackson, and Tanya Hart for in-depth reporting, historic insights, and daily updates that inform and empower. Stay connected at aurn.com and follow @aurnonline on all social media platforms.
Episodes
- Hantavirus Cruise Ship Passengers Arrive in Nebraska
Passengers from a cruise ship experiencing a hantavirus outbreak have arrived in Nebraska. Health officials are monitoring the situation, and the CDC and WHO have indicated that the risk to the public is low.
- Remembering Bob Marley 45 Years After His Death
This episode commemorates reggae icon Bob Marley, who passed away 45 years ago on this day in 1981. The Jamaican artist was instrumental in bringing reggae music to the world stage, leaving behind a legacy of songs that influence music, cu…
- Consumer Sentiment Drops Again as Economic Worries Grow
Consumer confidence is declining, driven by concerns about inflation, personal income, and global instability. Data also indicates worries regarding energy prices and supply chain disruptions.
- Virginia Court Ruling Sparks Voting Rights Concerns
Virginia's Supreme Court has overturned a voter-approved redistricting referendum. This decision has raised concerns about its impact on Black and minority political representation and occurs amidst national debates on voting rights and co…
- Quentin Wiltz Makes History in Pearland Mayor Race
Quentin Wiltz has been elected as the first Black mayor of Pearland, Texas, after a close race against Republican Tony Carbone. This election represents a significant political change in the suburb.
- Gas Prices Surge Ahead of Summer Travel Season
Ahead of the summer travel season, the national average price for a gallon of regular gas has climbed to $4.55. Drivers in California and Pennsylvania are experiencing some of the highest fuel prices.
- Michael Jackson Streams Surge After ‘Michael’ Release
Michael Jackson's streaming numbers surged after the release of the "Michael" biopic, which also had a record-breaking box office debut. This information comes from Billboard.
- Rep. Summer Lee Sounds Alarm Over Pegasus Spyware Concerns
Rep. Summer Lee raises concerns about Pegasus spyware and its potential domestic use in the United States. She is seeking answers from the Commerce Department regarding NSO Group's technology.
- Fed Warns Middle East Conflict Is Raising Economic Risks
The Federal Reserve is maintaining interest rates but cautions that increased inflation and Middle East instability are heightening economic risks for the U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell also highlighted slower job growth and high…
- Kwanza Jones Could Become MLB’s First Black Woman Owner
Entrepreneur Kwanza Jones is reportedly part of a $3.9 billion agreement to purchase the San Diego Padres. If approved, she would become MLB’s first Black woman majority owner, and José E. Feliciano would become the league's first majority…
- FBI Raids Office of Virginia Sen. L. Louise Lucas
Federal agents raided the office of Virginia state Sen. L. Louise Lucas, sparking a corruption and bribery investigation. Supporters claim political motivation, while federal sources state the probe began under the Biden administration.
- Tennessee Redistricting Plan Sparks Voting Rights Backlash
A political dispute has arisen in Tennessee concerning a new congressional map. Opponents claim the map is designed to dilute the voting power of Black residents in Memphis by dividing the city across multiple districts.
- Trump Warns Iran: Accept Deal or Face Bombing
President Donald Trump has warned Iran to accept a U.S.-brokered peace framework or face bombing, as negotiators pursue a ceasefire agreement related to the Strait of Hormuz. AURN provides news from a Black-owned media company.
- #OTD in 1931: Willie Mays Was Born
This episode marks the birthday of baseball legend Willie Mays, born May 6, 1931. It highlights his career progression from the Negro Leagues to the Baseball Hall of Fame, establishing him as a celebrated figure in sports history.
- Iran War Drives Up Farm Costs and Food Concerns
A recent poll indicates that the Iran war is causing higher fertilizer and fuel expenses for American farmers. This situation raises concerns regarding food insecurity and potential decreases in crop yields as the planting season approache…
- Viral Campaign Pushes Spirit Airlines Revival
A viral online campaign aims to relaunch Spirit Airlines, reportedly generating millions in pledges. AURN provides news updates.
- #OTD in 1865: Adam Clayton Powell Sr. Was Born
Adam Clayton Powell Sr. was born on May 5, 1865. He was a pastor and activist who significantly expanded the Abyssinian Baptist Church and championed civil rights and employment opportunities for Black people.
- Questions Mount Over U.S. Strait of Hormuz Operation
The U.S. has launched a military escort operation through the Strait of Hormuz while a ceasefire with Iran reportedly holds. This operation raises concerns regarding global shipping security and potential impacts on oil prices.
- Oil Price Surge Adds New Pressure on U.S. Economy
Oil prices rose sharply above $114 per barrel after Iran alleged an attack on a naval vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. This price increase is creating additional pressure on the U.S. economy and international markets.
- GOP Targets Tennessee’s Only Majority-Black District
Tennessee Republicans are pursuing a redistricting plan that critics believe could eliminate the state's only majority-Black congressional district. Lawmakers are convening for a special legislative session.
- Trump Hits Record Disapproval Ahead of Midterms
A Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll indicates President Donald Trump’s disapproval rating is at its highest point. Voter concerns regarding the economy and the Iran war precede the midterm elections.
- Veteran New York Times Journalist Ronald Smothers Dies
Ronald Smothers, a journalist with 35 years at The New York Times, passed away at age 79. He covered protest, politics, and racial change during his career.
- Trump Announces 25% Tariff on European Vehicles
President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on cars and trucks imported from the European Union. This decision escalates trade tensions and raises concerns about potential price increases for consumers.
- Judge Orders DOJ to Explain Fulton County Seizure
A federal judge has ordered the Justice Department to provide an explanation for the seizure of election records from Fulton County, Georgia. This jurisdiction was also where Donald Trump was indicted in 2023.
- #OTD: Gwendolyn Brooks Won Pulitzer Prize
Gwendolyn Brooks made history on May 1, 1950, as the first Black American to win a Pulitzer Prize. The award recognized her poetry collection "Annie Allen."
- Louisiana Suspends Primaries After Supreme Court Ruling
Louisiana's congressional primaries have been suspended following a Supreme Court decision on voting rights and redistricting. Concerns have been raised that this ruling may alter the landscape of Black political representation nationwide.
- Fort Worth Black News Founder Jill Darden Dies
Jill Darden, the founder of Fort Worth Black News and a journalism pioneer, has passed away. She is being remembered by the community for her impact on journalism and advocacy.
- #OTD: Sarah J. Garnet Made NYC History
Sarah J. Garnet made history on April 30, 1863, as the first Black principal in New York City's public school system. She was also a prominent advocate for women's suffrage and civil rights.
- CBC Sounds Alarm Over Supreme Court Voting Rights Ruling
The Congressional Black Caucus is concerned that a recent Supreme Court ruling on voting rights could significantly change congressional representation and reduce protections for Black and minority voters.
- Supreme Court Weakens Voting Rights Act Protections
A recent Supreme Court decision concerning Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act has alarmed civil rights advocates. The ruling has the potential to significantly change congressional maps and influence political power.
- Trump Passport Design Sparks Debate Ahead of 250th Anniversary
U.S. passports featuring President Trump are being introduced in Washington D.C. to coincide with the nation's 250th anniversary. Historians are raising concerns that this design choice may violate established international customs.
- Big Retailers Set to Receive Tariff Refunds
A report suggests significant tariff refunds stemming from President Trump's trade policies may benefit major retailers instead of consumers. The episode explores the implications for American households and identifies who stands to gain f…
- #OTD: LA Riots Erupted After Rodney King Verdict
The episode discusses the Los Angeles riots, which began on April 29, 1992, after the acquittal of officers involved in the Rodney King beating. The riots lasted six days, resulting in numerous deaths, injuries, and over $1 billion in dama…
- GOP Pushes White House Ballroom Funding After Shooting
Republicans are advancing a $400 million proposal for a White House ballroom after the WHCD shooting. The plan has encountered internal GOP disagreements and opposition from Democrats and watchdog organizations.
- Home Sales Fall Apart as Cancellations Rise
Home sales are declining nationwide as buyer cancellations increase, indicating a growing imbalance in the housing market. This trend is highlighted by new data.
- Jeffries Fires Back at Leavitt After WHCD Attack
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has responded to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, criticizing her for attributing blame to Democrats following an incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
- #OTD: Muhammad Ali Stripped of Title in 1967
On April 28, 1967, Muhammad Ali was stripped of his heavyweight boxing title for refusing induction into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. This decision led to a conviction, a ban from boxing, and a significant Supreme Court ruling tha…
- WHCD Shooting Suspect Charged With Attempted Assassination
A suspect accused of targeting the White House Correspondents’ Dinner has been charged with attempted assassination and federal weapons charges. The episode details the suspect's actions before the event and warnings issued by family membe…
- WHCA Dinner Shooting Suspect Arraigned in Washington
A suspect is being arraigned in federal court for an alleged shooting targeting Trump administration officials near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. The incident has raised significant security concerns.
- Consumers Losing Confidence as Costs Continue to Rise
Consumer confidence is dropping due to rising costs for essentials like gas, food, and travel, reaching its lowest point since 2022. This data highlights growing economic concerns across the nation.
- #OTD: Vincent Porter Made Medical History
On April 27, 1968, Dr. Vincent Porter became the first Black physician certified in plastic surgery. His career was marked by leadership, mentorship, and achievements that significantly influenced the field.
- Rising Unemployment Among Black Men Raises Concerns
New data indicates a rise in unemployment among Black men to 7.3%, the highest point in recent months. This trend points to increasing difficulties within the labor market and sparks concerns regarding long-term economic prospects.
- #OTD: Reconstruction Ended in 1877
On April 24, 1877, the end of Reconstruction was marked by the withdrawal of federal troops from the South. This decision dismantled protections for Black Americans, ushering in an era of voter suppression and segregation.
- Navy Secretary John Phelan Dismissed Amid Iran Conflict
Navy Secretary John Phelan has been dismissed amid the ongoing U.S. conflict with Iran and the blocking of Iranian ports by U.S. warships. This dismissal is one of several recent leadership changes within the Pentagon.
- Marijuana Rescheduled, but Who Benefits?
The Justice Department reclassified medical marijuana to Schedule III, providing tax advantages for licensed businesses. However, this change does not extend to recreational markets, potentially affecting the equity of Black-owned cannabis…
- Remembering Rep. David Scott: A Life of Service
The episode remembers Representative David Scott of Georgia, highlighting his over 50 years of public service and significant leadership roles in Congress, such as chairing the House Agriculture Committee. His life and career are presented…
- America’s Debt Keeps Climbing — Here’s Why
The U.S. national debt has surpassed $39 trillion, prompting concerns about government spending and economic stability. This episode explores the reasons behind the increasing debt and its potential future implications.
- Virginia Judge Blocks Redistricting Measure After Vote
A Virginia judge has blocked a voter-approved redistricting measure, deeming it unconstitutional shortly after its passage. This ruling prompts a legal challenge, with state officials lodging an appeal as the fate of the state's congressio…
- Rep. David Scott, Longtime Georgia Congressman, Dies at 80
U.S. Representative David Scott, who served Georgia for over 20 years, has died at the age of 80. He was recognized for his contributions to the House Agriculture Committee and his involvement with the Congressional Black Caucus.
- DOJ Charges SPLC With Fraud, Questions Emerge
The Justice Department has charged the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) with fraud, citing alleged misconduct in its use of informants. This development has prompted critics to question the government's motives and its reliance on confid…