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DOGE’s claim of $110B in savings was vastly inflated and riddled with errors: GAO

August 7, 2026 by WDNY Radio

DOGE’s claim of 0B in savings was vastly inflated and riddled with errors: GAO

DOGE’s claim of $110B in savings was vastly inflated and riddled with errors: GAO — Tesla CEO Elon Musk is seen in the Oval Office of the White House on May 30, 2025, in Washington, DC. Musk served as an adviser to Trump and led the Department of Government Efficiency. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

(WASHINGTON) — When Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency launched its effort to slash federal spending last year, it also created a website to show how much money it said it was saving taxpayers.

A new review by the U.S. Government Accountability Office found the site’s claim of $110 billion in taxpayer savings was vastly inflated and unreliable.

The report found DOGE could not provide enough information to verify 96% of its reported savings from canceled grants.

Despite its pledge of transparency, the report found DOGE did not use its stated methodology to calculate about half of the savings it reported.

“Because U.S. DOGE Service officials did not respond to requests for information, GAO could not determine the reasons why DOGE did not disclose data quality issues and limitations when the website first went live or at any time since then,” the report said.

The report also found DOGE failed to terminate some of the contracts it claimed to have canceled. According to the report, $27.4 billion in claimed savings was never executed, and DOGE did not provide identifying information for another $7.2 billion in claimed savings.

DOGE also claimed $1.7 billion in savings from an IT services contract for the Defense Department’s Defense Health Agency, but the report said no changes were ever made.

The report also said DOGE claimed savings from millions of dollars in leases that had already been identified for termination.

Musk has since left DOGE. ABC News reached out to Musk and the White House for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Although DOGE formally ended on July 4, its “Wall of Receipts” remains online, claiming a total of $215 billion in taxpayer savings.

Appeals court blocks construction of White House ballroom

August 7, 2026 by WDNY Radio

(WASHINGTON) — A federal appeals court has issued a ruling blocking the construction of President Donald Trump’s $400 million White House ballroom, concluding that congressional approval is needed for the project.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy announces he will vote for Todd Blanche to be attorney general

August 7, 2026 by WDNY Radio

(WASHINGTON) — Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy announced Friday he will vote for acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to permanently lead the Department of Justice.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Lake Mead, nation’s largest reservoir, reaches its lowest water level on record

August 7, 2026 by WDNY Radio

(NEW YORK) — The water level at Lake Mead, the nation’s largest reservoir by storage capacity, hit a record low on Thursday.

Lake Mead’s pool elevation hit the new low at 1,040.50 feet, breaking the previous record of 1,040.58 feet set in July 2022, according to data published by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation on Friday.

The reservoir, formed by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, is located in Nevada and Arizona and supplies water to millions of U.S. residents.

Prolonged drought conditions and exceptionally low snowpack have contributed to the significant declines in water levels at several Colorado River Basin reservoirs this year.

Elevation at the nation’s second largest reservoir, Lake Powell, was measuring at 3,521.43 feet as of Thursday, according to the Bureau of Reclamation — nearing the previous record low of 3,519.92 feet set in April 2023 and the critical level needed for the reservoir to produce hydropower. A new record low at the Utah-Arizona reservoir could also be reached this month, projections show.

The Colorado River basin is a critical system for residents in the western U.S. and Mexico. The basin provides water for up to 40 million people and hydropower to the seven basin states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming, according to the Bureau of Reclamation.

Since the beginning of the year, hydrologists have been warning about the potential for water levels at Lake Mead and Lake Powell to hit critical levels as a result of record-low snowpack over the winter months.

Much of the western U.S. entered the winter already grappling with drought conditions from lack of rain. But warmer-than-normal temperatures during the winter prevented snow from accumulating, which led to a lack of snowmelt flowing into watersheds once spring came.

Jobs report shows US unexpectedly lost jobs in July

August 7, 2026 by WDNY Radio

(WASHINGTON) — The U.S. economy unexpectedly lost jobs in July, demonstrating a wobbly labor market as shoppers continued to withstand a surge of inflation set off by the Iran war.

The U.S. lost 23,000 jobs in July, according to the federal government’s monthly jobs report, which marked a decline from 57,000 jobs added in June.

The unemployment rate fell slightly from 4.2% in June to 4.1% in July, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) said. Unemployment remains low by historical standards.

The lackluster figure recorded in July departs from largely resilient performance for the labor market so far in 2026, despite a historic oil shock that has driven up fuel prices and hiked supply-chain costs for a host of other goods.

A government report issued last week showed a steeper slowdown in gross domestic product than expected over three months ending in June, however, suggesting strain in the underlying economy over the early months of the war.

The U.S. added an average of 92,000 jobs per month over the first half of 2026, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data showed. That pace marks an improvement from an average of about 7,000 jobs lost per month over the second half of 2025.

The Iran war drove up gasoline prices and catapulted inflation to a three-year high in May. A preliminary peace agreement in June offered up some relief, but a burst of on-again, off-again fighting in recent weeks caused crude prices to rise again.

The combination of elevated inflation and a resilient labor market has raised the chances of an interest rate hike, futures markets show. Investors peg the odds of a quarter-point rate hike next month at about 56%, according to the CME Group’s FedWatch Tool, a measure of market sentiment.

The Fed opted to hold interest rates steady at its meeting last week, but central bankers appeared divided over the move. Three of the 12 members on the Fed’s policymaking board voted in favor of a rate hike, marking the largest number of dissenters casting ballots in the same direction since 2016.

A rate increase, however, could risk a slowdown in hiring and economic growth over the coming months as corporations face the prospect of higher borrowing costs.

The benchmark rate stands at a level between 3.5% and 3.75%. That figure marks a significant drop from a recent peak attained in 2023, but borrowing costs remain well above a 0% rate established at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, who took the helm of the central bank this summer, has repeatedly vowed to dial back inflation.

“The committee remains resolute — you’ve heard this before — that we will deliver price stability,” Warsh told reporters in Washington, D.C., last week.

Sen. Mitch McConnell announces he has been discharged from rehab facility

August 6, 2026 by WDNY Radio

(WASHINGTON) — Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell, after weeks of in-patient care following a fall in mid-June, announced via a statement from his office on Thursday that he has been discharged from a rehabilitation center and will continue his recovery at home.

“Earlier today, I was discharged from the rehabilitation center to continue my recovery at home,” McConnell said in a statement. “Elaine and I are grateful for the many well wishes and support from friends, colleagues, and Kentuckians, and for the attentive care I’ve received from excellent doctors, nurses, therapists, and hospital staff.”

“On the advice of my doctors, I’ll maintain an intensive regimen of physical therapy from home during the state work period, and I’ll continue to engage with my staff and colleagues on important Senate business,” McConnell added.

McConnell was first hospitalized on June 14 for reasons that were initially undisclosed by his office.

While his office has released two photographs of McConnell since his hospitalization, the Kentucky senator has not been seen in public.

Late last month, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear called on McConnell to either “verbally” show proof to Kentuckians that he can still serve in the Senate or to resign from Congress.

In a statement issued on July 12, nearly a month later, McConnell said he was hospitalized due to a fall that left him briefly unconscious. He also said he had to deal with a “mild case of pneumonia.”

In that same July 12 statement, McConnell said he had been moved from the hospital to a rehabilitation facility to recover.

The former Republican leader has not been seen on Capitol Hill since June 11.

McConnell has said he intends to finish his term, which expires in January. The seven-term senator has already said he does not intend to seek reelection in January.

The Senate is expected to recess until mid-September in the coming days. McConnell’s statement suggests he won’t be seen in the Capitol until at least then.

Before departing for recess, the Senate is expected to take up acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s nomination to permanently lead the Department of Justice. With McConnell’s absence, Blanche can only afford to lose two Republican votes.

Michigan health officials say people can resume regular lettuce-eating habits as new cases of cyclosporiasis slow

August 6, 2026 by WDNY Radio

(NEW YORK) — Michigan health officials said on Thursday that people can resume regular lettuce- and salad greens-eating habits as new cases of cyclosporiasis slow.

It’s one of nine states in a multi-state outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at some Taco Bell restaurants.

The iceberg lettuce was supplied by Taylor Farms and sourced from central Mexico. Taylor Farms issued a voluntary recall of all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico.

The state has seen more than 12,400 cases since June, including 279 hospitalizations and two deaths, health department data shows.

Taco Bell also said it is no longer using lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico at any of its restaurants.

The update from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) said the majority of contaminated produce is “likely” no longer available to consume.

Additionally, new cyclosporiasis cases and related emergency department visits are declining, MDHHS said. Most exposures occurred in late June or early July, the department noted.

“Since the start of this outbreak, MDHHS has remained committed to providing timely, transparent information and clear recommendations to Michigan residents,” Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive, said in a press release. “As new data has emerged, our guidance has evolved to reflect the best available evidence, helping ensure that prevention recommendations are accurate, actionable and responsive to the changing situation.”

The recommendation to avoid bagged salad mixes is no longer in effect, the department said.

“Residents may resume their usual food handling practices and make choices based on their individual risk tolerance,” the release from MDHHS added.

Consumers should continue avoiding any recalled food products, health officials noted, as well as continuing to rinse fruits and vegetables and washing hands and surfaces often.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has previously said it is investigating other outbreaks and illnesses of cyclosporiasis nationally that are unrelated to the nine-state outbreak.

Since May 1, cases of cyclosporiasis have topped 22,000 in 47 states, according to data updated by the CDC on Tuesday.

There are at least 10,468 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, including 423 hospitalizations, the CDC data shows. The agency is also aware of at least 12,255 additional cases that have not yet been laboratory confirmed or require further investigation and analysis.

Alleged ‘master of disguise’ faces federal charges for armed robberies: Officials

August 6, 2026 by WDNY Radio

(NEW YORK) — A man who federal prosecutors in Atlanta nicknamed “master of disguise” is facing federal charges Thursday for allegedly robbing 10 businesses at gunpoint while dressed in different costumes.

Tracy Mingo is accused of using disguises to evade identification so he could target employees at Circle K, Subway and Family Dollar stores throughout the Atlanta area between October 2025 and January 2026, the FBI said.

Mingo allegedly entered each of the stores late at night — after all or nearly all customers had left — and robbed employees at gunpoint, officials said.

He allegedly donned disguises, including a construction worker, a health care professional and a security guard, according to the indictment.

Police and the FBI arrested Mingo in January when they said it appeared he was putting on the same security guard disguise used during the robbery of a Circle K store the night before. Mingo, 33, of College Park, Georgia, is now charged with 20 counts, including Hobbs Act robbery, attempted Hobbs Act robbery, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

“For months, Mingo allegedly used disguises in an attempt to evade identification and continue targeting innocent workers at gunpoint,” FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Marlo Graham said in a statement. “He underestimated the determination of the investigators pursuing him and the strength of the partnerships that exist between the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners.”

McConnell discharged from rehab facility

August 6, 2026 by WDNY Radio

(WASHINGTON) — Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell was discharged Thursday from the rehabilitation center and will continue his recovery at home.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Measles exposure reported at Universal Studios Hollywood

August 6, 2026 by WDNY Radio

(NEW YORK) — Los Angeles County health officials said a person infected with measles visited Universal Studios Hollywood last month and potentially exposed others to the virus.

The county’s Department of Public Health said Wednesday that it is investigating the case involving the visitor who was at the theme park on July 26. Other possible locations within the county are being probed, according to the health department.

Anyone who was in the park that day between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. is asked to confirm their protection against the virus and is warned that they may be at risk of developing measles from seven to 21 days after being exposed, according to the health department.

Health officials said that people who have been vaccinated against the virus are likely to be protected, as are people who had measles previously.

“People who are unimmunized or have unknown measles immunization status are at higher risk and should monitor for symptoms closely. Anyone who remains symptom-free for more than 21 days after being exposed is no longer considered at risk,” the health department said in a statement.

A spokesperson for Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement Friday that the park is working with the health department in their probe.

“The safety and security of our guests and team members is our highest priority,” the company said.

Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes or a rash. The virus can spread through the air and can remain in the air or on infected surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.

Anyone who believes they have contracted measles is urged to call a doctor immediately, according to the health department.

“Measles spreads easily and can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death,” Dr. Muntu Davis, the Los Angeles County Health Officer, said in a statement.

Over 2,300 measles cases have been recorded this year, the highest number since 1991, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The majority of measles cases in 2026 have been confirmed among children and teenagers aged 19 and younger, according to the CDC. About one in 10 children under age 5 diagnosed with measles this year have been hospitalized.

About 93% of cases this year are among people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown, CDC data shows.

The CDC currently recommends that people receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, the first at ages 12 to 15 months and the second between 4 and 6 years old. One dose is 93% effective, and two doses are 97% effective against measles, the CDC says.

-ABC News’ Mary Kekatos contributed to this report.

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