Here’s a look at what made news on April 5, 2025.

• Severe storms in the central US have unleashed torrential rain, deadly tornadoes, and flash flooding. Particularly hard hit were parts of the south and midwest already grappling with the aftermath of previous storms. Forecasters have warned that some rivers will continue to rise for days due to the heavy rains.
• New York-based photographer Eric Kogan creates unique optical illusions in his work using shadows, reflections, and well-timed shots. He describes his work as a journey of spotting unusual moments in everyday places during his daily city walks.
• A nationwide movement dubbed the ‘Hands Off’ has seen massive protests rise against President Trump and Elon Musk. Protesters across the country rallied with united opposition against the Trump administration, presenting a singular message: “Hands Off.”
• President Donald Trump has utilized the Alien Enemies Act, a 1798 law, to deport noncitizens during a time of war. He specifically targeted Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang he has falsely accused of being part of a criminal invasion.
• The artist behind a controversial portrait of Donald Trump has faced criticism from the President himself, endangering her business. The portrait, which hangs in Colorado’s State Capitol, was publicly denounced by Trump on his Truth Social platform.
• The US is revoking all visas for South Sudanese passport holders and blocking new arrivals due to the African nation’s refusal to accept its nationals expelled from the US, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
• In a stunning comeback, Trinity Rodman led the US Women’s National Team to a 2-0 victory over Brazil in a rematch of the 2024 Olympic final. Rodman returned from a lengthy injury, scoring in the fifth minute.
• President Trump has made a bold tariff gamble, placing stiff new tariffs on imports from nearly all U.S. trading partners. This move comes after his party lost a key Wisconsin race and underperformed in Florida.
• New York Public Schools are defying a DEI order from the Trump administration, refusing to end diversity, equity, and inclusion practices in schools despite threats of federal education funding termination.
• Democratic Senator Cory Booker has called for change during a town hall meeting in New Jersey. His call to action comes in response to Donald Trump’s agenda.
• Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered in Washington to protest against Donald Trump’s policies, in a display of mass dissent that organizers hope will influence next year’s congressional elections.
• President Trump plans to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a high-stakes discussion covering topics from Gaza to tariffs.
• Nationwide protests against Donald Trump and Elon Musk have erupted in all 50 US states. Thousands of people gathered in various cities, with approximately 1,200 demonstrations planned.
• Columbia University student activist Mahmoud Khalil has accused the university of laying “the groundwork for my abduction” following his arrest. Khalil led pro-Palestinian rallies on campus and is resisting deportation efforts from the Trump administration.
• The Trump administration is facing controversy as it defends the deportation of a Maryland man to a notorious El Salvador prison against a court order.
• Former Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff has criticized his law firm’s decision to preemptively strike a deal with the Trump administration to avoid an executive order targeting the firm.
• Former President Barack Obama has called on US citizens to resist Donald Trump’s political agenda and to be prepared to support democratic values.