Outlet profile

USA TODAY

44 graded reports on Clad. Volume is public; the outlet's average grade, lean & social sentiment unlock with a free account.

Clad has been grading USA TODAY segments since Jun 2026 — 44 reports so far, published several times a week. Its most-covered subjects on Clad: Trump, Iran, Elections. Every report checks the segment's load-bearing claims against primary sources, then scores the coverage for factual accuracy, political lean, and how the public received it — so you can see how USA TODAY's reporting holds up story by story, not just take its word for it.

Reports

B+ Grade

Political Lean 15% Left-leaning

L

R

Epstein Survivor Describes Harm from DOJ Document Releases and Official Priorities

Jul 16, 2026

The clip shows an Epstein survivor testifying emotionally about the release of court and investigative documents that exposed identifying information, causing humiliation, reputational damage, job loss, and safety fears. She criticizes Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche for prioritizing meetings with Ghislaine Maxwell over survivors and for mishandling the process that outed victims. The segment draws from public hearing testimony and references public reporting on Blanche's meetings; survivors are presented as crime victims rather than activists, with emphasis on lost privacy and investigative leads ignored.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B+ Grade

Political Lean 25% Left-leaning

L

R

Federal judges launch bus tour promoting judicial independence and rule of law

Jul 12, 2026

The USA TODAY segment covers a four-day 'Justice in Motion' bus tour by federal and state judges traveling through Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan. Participants speak at community stops about preserving public confidence in the courts, the rule of law, and judicial independence amid perceived threats. The report relies on on-camera interviews with judges, anonymous framing of their concerns, and graphics referencing the tour. It highlights judges stepping out publicly due to fears of power shifts and media focus on judicial appointments rather than legal analysis.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Ilyasah Shabazz discusses Malcolm X legacy and unity for America 250

Jul 5, 2026

USA TODAY segment features Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz reflecting on historical divide-and-conquer tactics involving figures like Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr., while highlighting Black contributions to America. She describes her father's work with the Organization of Afro-American Unity, his international human rights focus, faith-driven courage, and the need for ethical unity ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary. The clip is a solo interview with Shabazz, drawing on family perspective and primary events from 1964-1965. No additional guests or graphics are referenced; the throughline is recognition of contributions and calls for principled collaboration.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean 35% Left-leaning

L

R

Sharpton at Essence Fest calls for Aug. 28 march after DC white nationalist event

Jul 5, 2026

USA Today clip shows Rev. Al Sharpton speaking at Essence Fest, addressing adversity, 'negro amnesia,' the need for unity against division, and criticizing Trump. He promotes a national Black-led march on Washington on August 28, the anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington, co-chaired with Marc Morial of the Urban League, Martin Luther King III, and the NCNW. The segment references a recent white nationalists march in DC as context for the call to action. Sourcing centers on Sharpton's direct remarks with historical references to 1963 organizers like A. Philip Randolph.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B+ Grade

Political Lean 15% Right-leaning

L

R

Trump delivers patriotic speech at America 250th event on National Mall

Jul 5, 2026

USA TODAY aired a clip of President Trump's July 4, 2026 speech on the National Mall marking America's 250th anniversary. The event featured fireworks and was delayed by thunderstorms and lightning. Trump reflected on the Declaration of Independence signers, American westward expansion, and recent military actions. The segment draws directly from Trump's remarks without additional narration or guests. It highlights his phrasing about the evening being 'for the ages' and references to rebuilding the military across terms.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B- Grade

Political Lean 65% Right-leaning

L

R

Trump Mount Rushmore speech labels communism 'mortal threat' ahead of midterms

Jul 3, 2026

The USA TODAY segment covered President Trump's July 2026 speech at Mount Rushmore during America 250 celebrations. Trump denounced communism as a mortal threat greater than major wars or 9/11, warned of its resurgence including among newcomers, listed American achievements, and urged action on the Save America Act and terminating the filibuster ahead of midterms. The second paragraph notes the sourcing relied on direct excerpts from Trump's remarks with no named independent experts or graphics referenced beyond the event setting.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B+ Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

NYPD bodycam captures Empire State Building climbers' detention

Jul 2, 2026

The USA TODAY clip presents NYPD bodycam footage of officers detaining two individuals atop the Empire State Building. Officers instruct the pair to stay put, ask about cooperation, note they speak Russian, and direct one to another area for descent. The short segment shows routine police interaction during the arrest without additional narration or graphics. Sourcing consists solely of the released bodycam video; no guests or external experts appear.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Luke Russert Joins MS NOW as Co-Host of The Weeknight

Jul 1, 2026

The USA Today segment reports that Luke Russert, son of the late Tim Russert, is returning to television as co-host of the 7 p.m. program The Weeknight on MS Now, formerly MSNBC. He discusses how time away from TV helped him feel more comfortable sharing opinions. The report notes Tim Russert's death in 2008 and Luke's departure from NBC News in 2016, along with his memoir Look for Me There. The brief clip relies on public announcements and Russert's own comments, with no named guests or additional experts. It focuses on the personal and professional transition in the context of the network's recent rebranding.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

USA TODAY Explains El Niño Mechanics and Potential US Impacts

Jul 1, 2026

The segment defines El Niño as the warm phase of the ENSO cycle alongside La Niña and neutral conditions, explaining how warmer Pacific waters alter equatorial storm formation and shift the jet stream to influence North American weather patterns. It notes that El Niño primarily sets seasonal tendencies rather than causing immediate severe events but highlights that a 'super' El Niño could intensify typical effects, including potential multi-year droughts in the Plains resembling Dust Bowl conditions.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Trump notes teleprompter failure during Badlands Roosevelt event

Jul 1, 2026

The USA TODAY clip shows President Trump speaking outdoors in North Dakota's Badlands during an event honoring Theodore Roosevelt. He discusses the location, Roosevelt's legacy, his new Air Force One flight, his strong electoral performance in the state, and then notes that his two teleprompters are not working, saying 'and here I stand.' The segment is a short excerpt from Trump's July 1 2026 visit to Medora for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library dedication ahead of its July 4 opening. It relies on direct video footage and the president's own words with no additional narration, guests, or graphics beyond the title overlay.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Supreme Court 6-3 ruling upholds birthright citizenship, blocks Trump order

Jul 1, 2026

The segment explains the Supreme Court's June 30, 2026, 6-3 decision rejecting President Trump's executive order limiting birthright citizenship. It details the majority opinion authored by Chief Justice Roberts and joined by the three liberal justices plus Justice Barrett, which held the order unconstitutional under the 14th Amendment's Citizenship Clause. Justice Kavanaugh concurred in the judgment on statutory grounds, while three justices dissented in favor of upholding the order.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Burnham wins Makerfield by-election, sets stage for Starmer challenge

Jun 21, 2026

The segment covers Andy Burnham's victory speech after winning the Makerfield by-election on June 18, 2026, with nearly 55% of the vote. It highlights his calls for change, fairness for northern England, party renewal, and a new politics of unity. Keir Starmer congratulates Burnham, cites migration and EU achievements, confirms he would contest any leadership race, and notes the resulting Greater Manchester mayoral by-election. Brief Londoner interviews offer mixed views on Burnham as a potential leader.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

June 21 2026 packs Father's Day, solstice and national observances

Jun 20, 2026

USA TODAY video notes that June 21, 2026 coincides with Father's Day, the summer solstice, National Smoothie Day, National Yoga Day and National Selfie Day. It highlights deals on smoothies and encourages yoga poses and selfies. The segment runs under one minute with upbeat music and simple graphics. Sourcing draws from standard national day calendars; no named guests or experts appear. The throughline is a fun roundup of overlapping June 21 events rather than in-depth reporting.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Trump awards Medals of Honor to Capers, Ripley, Dockery

Jun 18, 2026

The USA TODAY video covers President Trump presenting the Medal of Honor at the White House to three veterans. Segments include Trump's remarks naming the recipients and brief context on their service. The broadcast features the official ceremony footage and Trump's speech.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Trump jokingly tells G7 leaders 'I'm the boss' at summit

Jun 17, 2026

USA Today clip shows President Trump arriving at a G7 leaders’ meeting in Évian-les-Bains, France, on the summit’s final day. He enters late, says “I’m the boss,” draws laughter from attendees, and sits beside French President Macron with UK Prime Minister Starmer nearby. The brief segment features hot-mic audio of greetings and the remark. Sourcing consists solely of the on-site video footage with no additional experts, documents, or analysis presented.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B- Grade

Political Lean 15% Right-leaning

L

R

Trump Defends Handling of Iranian School Strike Investigation

Jun 17, 2026

The USA Today segment features a clip of President Trump responding to a question about accountability for a school strike in Iran that killed over 100 children on the war's first day. Trump states the incident is under investigation, asserts no one acted intentionally, calls it a mistake in a nasty war, and redirects attention to Iranian-inflicted casualties while naming Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The broadcast draws from press conference footage with Trump speaking aboard Air Force One or similar setting. It references an ongoing military probe without additional expert commentary or graphics in the provided clip.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B Grade

Political Lean 65% Right-leaning

L

R

Trump Ties Iran Deal to Plummeting Oil Prices, Calls Affordability Crisis a Democratic Invention

Jun 17, 2026

The USA TODAY clip shows President Trump responding to questions on an Iran agreement's impact on energy prices and commenting on Vice President Vance's media appearance. He describes oil prices plummeting, gasoline heading lower, U.S. strikes preventing an Iranian nuclear weapon, stock market resilience, and attributes the 'affordability crisis' to Democrats who allegedly created high prices he inherited and is now fixing.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B+ Grade

Political Lean 25% Right-leaning

L

R

Social Media Bans for Minors Face Enforcement Hurdles and Legal Scrutiny

Jun 17, 2026

USA Today interview with Cato Institute senior fellow David Inserra examines global efforts to restrict social media for minors under 16. Segments cover Australia's implemented ban, Britain's proposed measures including curfews and chatbot limits, state-level US actions, Supreme Court signals, recent jury verdicts against Meta, and alternatives like education and parental controls. The discussion relies on the guest's analysis drawing from policy developments, polling, and court outcomes. It highlights enforcement difficulties, privacy implications, and First Amendment concerns while advocating parental and educational approaches over blanket restrictions.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

USA Today clip accurately reports Wilmington hospital shooting details

Jun 17, 2026

The segment covers a shooting at ChristianaCare Wilmington Hospital in Delaware on June 16, 2026. It reports police locating two gunshot victims inside the facility, with one dying from injuries and details on the second victim and identities withheld out of respect for families. The clip includes police radio communications about the active scene and hospital context. Sourcing relies on real-time police scanner audio and official statements. No named guests or experts appear; it focuses on immediate law enforcement response. The broadcast emphasizes the unusual nature of violence occurring inside a hospital.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Corey Feldman Hospitalized After In-Flight Medical Emergency

Jun 16, 2026

The segment reports that actor Corey Feldman, 54, experienced a medical emergency on a flight from Chicago to Los Angeles and was met by paramedics upon landing at LAX on June 15. His publicist confirmed he was hospitalized overnight awaiting MRI results. It notes his recent appearance at a Stand by Me 40th anniversary event in Chicago with Jerry O'Connell and Wil Wheaton, plus photos from Midwest travels. The report draws from publicist statements to USA Today, cross-referenced with initial TMZ reporting. It references the Chicago Theatre event the day prior and focuses on the timeline of the incident and immediate aftermath.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B+ Grade

Political Lean 10% Left-leaning

L

R

Reflecting Pool remains green after multimillion-dollar renovation

Jun 16, 2026

The USA TODAY segment shows visitors at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool commenting on its green appearance shortly after a renovation intended to restore a blue hue. Interviewees note the water color resembles pre-renovation conditions despite millions spent and express surprise or skepticism ahead of July 4th. The piece relies on on-site visitor interviews with no named experts or officials; background music and editing emphasize the visual mismatch between expectations and observed algae. It ties into broader coverage of the project timing before America's 250th anniversary celebrations.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B- Grade

Political Lean 35% Left-leaning

L

R

USA TODAY examines persistent online criticism of Michelle Obama

Jun 16, 2026

The segment discusses ongoing negative remarks toward Michelle Obama nearly a decade after she left the White House, highlighting a recent UFC Freedom 250 event where fighter Josh Hokit shouted 'Michelle Obama is a man!' during a post-fight interview. It presents this as part of a pattern of abusive comments. The provided transcript features commentary on loving the country while noting the need for more work, criticizing the dehumanization of people through caricatures, and questioning the mindset of those who create and share such images, referencing former presidents and immigrants.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

USA Today covers viral pan-fried Krispy Kreme donut hack

Jun 16, 2026

The short USA Today clip demonstrates a pan-frying method for Krispy Kreme donuts, showing the donut heating in a pan until one side caramelizes, followed by a taste test rated 10/10. Segments focus on the reheating process and positive sensory feedback. Sourcing appears to draw from the ongoing social media trend without named experts or additional graphics; the throughline is showcasing the popular 'crispy' hack.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B+ Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Iran coach claims 'oppressed' team amid World Cup travel issues

Jun 16, 2026

The USA TODAY segment covers comments from Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei after his team's 2-2 draw with New Zealand in Los Angeles. He described the squad as the 'most oppressed' at the tournament due to last-minute travel mandates forcing an immediate return to their Tijuana, Mexico base camp. The report references earlier federation decisions to relocate the camp from Arizona amid U.S. visa uncertainty and diplomatic tensions. Sourcing centers on the coach's post-match press conference statements with brief historical context on the team's arrival and visa negotiations. The throughline emphasizes logistical disruptions affecting the Iran squad.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B+ Grade

Political Lean 15% Left-leaning

L

R

DC renovations for America 250 draw mixed reactions amid Reflecting Pool algae issues

Jun 16, 2026

The segment covers algae on the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, public opinions on its $14-16 million makeover, and broader Trump administration DC improvements ahead of America 250 celebrations. It includes on-site reactions at the Mall, White House area, and Union Station, plus mentions of east wing changes, fixed fountains, and security measures. Sourcing relies on unnamed residents, a Trump quote on the renovations as a gift to future presidents, and reporter narration referencing construction and protests. Segments highlight both beautification successes and questions about planning, costs, and lack of public input.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

USA TODAY clip explains 'goblintimacy' dating trend

Jun 16, 2026

The brief USA TODAY video describes the 'goblintimacy' dating trend, in which daters present their authentic selves including flaws and baggage early to filter incompatible partners. It notes that experts distinguish this from low-effort approaches and warn that intimacy develops gradually through trust. The segment draws on quotes from dating coaches Amy Chan and Damona Hoffman featured in the outlet's accompanying article, emphasizing balanced advice on authenticity versus oversharing.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Trump touts preliminary Iran framework deal on nuclear ban, Hormuz reopening

Jun 16, 2026

The USA TODAY segment features President Trump discussing a recent U.S.-Iran framework agreement reached amid ongoing conflict. He highlights the deal's terms including no U.S. financial investment in Iran, Iran's commitment against acquiring nuclear weapons, and references to prior military actions and regional meetings. Trump emphasizes that Iran will face severe consequences if it pursues a nuclear weapon and notes the deal's second stage. The clip includes his comments on regime dynamics and thanks to regional leaders, presented as direct remarks from the president.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A- Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Gerontocracy claims in USA TODAY segment hold up to data on voter and donor ages

Jun 16, 2026

The USA TODAY segment examines how older Americans dominate political power beyond elected officials, focusing on voters, donors, and wealth. It references a book arguing the U.S. functions as a gerontocracy due to skewed participation. The discussion cites median voter ages in the 50s nationally and higher in primaries and non-presidential races, plus average donor ages of 60-70. It draws on voting patterns and campaign finance data without naming specific guests or showing graphics in the provided transcript.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B+ Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

Trump Comments on New US-Iran Deal and Israel at G7 Summit

Jun 16, 2026

USA TODAY clip shows President Trump speaking at the G7 summit in France on June 16, 2026, defending a preliminary US-Iran peace agreement. He emphasizes no US financial investment in Iran, strong nuclear restrictions, and potential consequences for violations. Trump also criticizes Israel's Lebanon operations against Hezbollah and suggests Syria could handle the group more effectively. He claims unique credit for Israel's survival and urges Netanyahu to show more responsibility in Lebanon.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

A Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

USA Today Video Accurately Reports Jelly Roll Divorce Filing

Jun 16, 2026

The USA TODAY segment reports that Jelly Roll filed for divorce from Bunnie XO (Alisa DeFord) on May 18 in Tennessee court. It notes their 2016 marriage, past public discussions of relationship challenges including a 2018 split, and Jelly Roll's February Grammy dedication to her. The video draws from court records reviewed by USA TODAY, references TMZ as the initial reporter, and mentions the couple's openness about ups and downs. No representatives' comments are included.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

C- Grade

Political Lean 85% Left-leaning

L

R

Newsom claims Trump-directed DOJ probe targets him and wife

Jun 15, 2026

The segment features California Gov. Gavin Newsom's June 15, 2026 video statement accusing President Trump of directing the DOJ to investigate him and his wife Jennifer Siebel Newsom. Newsom links the probe to his potential 2028 presidential bid, alleges grand jury abuse and document fishing expeditions, and counters by pointing to alleged corruption in the White House. He also appeals to leave his family out of the matter. The sourcing relies on Newsom's own on-camera and social media statements plus anonymous law enforcement sources confirming multiple investigations tied to his wife's finances and former staff; no on-record DOJ comment or Trump administration response is presented.

▶ Source: USA TODAY

B+ Grade

Political Lean Centered

L

R

UK PM Announces Social Media Ban for Under-16s, Expert Notes Australia Enforcement Issues

Jun 15, 2026

The segment covers UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's announcement of a proposed ban on social media access for children under 16, describing it as shaping values and improving child safety and happiness. It includes commentary on Australia's similar ban introduced in late 2025, noting that initial evaluations show roughly two-thirds of children bypassing restrictions via methods like VPNs. The expert expresses concerns about enforcement effectiveness, avoiding criminalization of minors, and the need for parental education beyond the ban itself.

▶ Source: USA TODAY