Fox News Hourly Update – Detailed Summary Episode: 10 PM ET 08/02/2025 Newscast | Release Date: August 3, 2025
1. Special Counsel Jack Smith Under Investigation
Reported by Angelo Bavaro and Jill Nadeau
The episode opens with Angelo Bavaro announcing an ongoing investigation: “Under investigation. I'm Angelo Bavaro, Fox News.” At 00:14, Jill Nadeau delves into the details, explaining that Special Counsel Jack Smith, who previously led two high-profile investigations into former President Donald Trump during the Biden administration, is now facing scrutiny himself. The investigations had focused on the mishandling of classified documents and Trump’s involvement in the January 6th Capitol riot.
Recently, the Office of Special Counsel under the Trump administration initiated a probe into Smith, following accusations from Republican Senator Tom Cotton. Cotton alleges that Smith violated the Hatch Act, a federal statute prohibiting certain political activities by public officials. He contends that Smith’s actions were politically motivated to aid President Biden. Jill Nadeau summarizes: “Cotton asked the Office of Special Counsel to investigate Smith, alleging his conduct was designed to help then President Joe Biden.” The situation underscores the heightened political tensions surrounding ongoing investigations and the implications of the Hatch Act concerning impartiality in public office.
2. Pope Leo XIV Addresses the Jubilee of Youth
Reported by Angelo Bavaro
Transitioning from national politics to global religious affairs, at 01:34, Angelo Bavaro covers a significant event within the Catholic Church. Pope Leo XIV addressed hundreds of thousands of young Catholics at the Jubilee of Youth, a central feature of the Vatican's 2025 Holy Year. Speaking to an international crowd, the Pope urged the youth to "make radical choices for good," emphasizing the importance of "true friendship" over virtual connections. He also highlighted the "dangers of social media," cautioning young people against the superficial interactions that platforms often foster. The event successfully drew youthful participation from around the globe, reflecting the Church’s efforts to engage with younger generations and address contemporary challenges they face.
3. Arrest of ISIS Supporter in California
Reported by Angelo Bavaro and Marion Rafferty
At 03:08, Angelo Bavaro reports a significant security development: federal agents have apprehended Mark Lorenzo Villanueva in California. Marion Rafferty provides further details at 03:14, stating that Villanueva is charged with providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization—specifically, ISIS. Additionally, Villanueva is accused of disseminating anti-American propaganda online, including a particularly alarming message: “Honor to Fight and Die for Our Faith.”
The complaint outlines an interaction between Villanueva and another ISIS fighter, where Villanueva confirms his allegiance: “Are you a supporter of the Islamic State?” The response, “Yes, I was an ISIS fighter. I was captured at 17 and released at the age of 30,” underscores the long-term nature of his involvement. Federal investigators discovered numerous social media posts and communication records that led to his arrest, highlighting ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks within the United States.
4. Corporation for Public Broadcasting Announces Closure
Reported by Angelo Bavaro and Paul Stevens
In a significant blow to public media, Angelo Bavaro announces at 03:54 that the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) is set to wind down operations after nearly six decades of service. Paul Stevens elaborates at 04:06, explaining that the CPB is taking steps toward closure following substantial funding cuts by Congress and the White House, which retracted approximately $1.1 billion earmarked for the next two budget years. This funding was crucial for over 1,500 local public radio and television stations across the country.
Established in November 1967 by President Lyndon Johnson, the CPB was dedicated to fostering instructional, educational, and cultural programming. The recent financial setbacks have made the organization’s continuation untenable, leading to the difficult decision to cease operations by the end of the fiscal year on September 30th. Consequently, CPB employees have been informed that most of their positions will be terminated, marking the end of an era for public broadcasting in the United States.
5. Anaconda, Montana Bar Shooting – Suspected Gunman at Large
Reported by Angelo Bavaro
Tragically closing the episode, Angelo Bavaro reports on a violent incident in Anaconda, Montana. At 04:47, he details the events of Friday's bar shooting, which resulted in four fatalities. The suspect, 45-year-old military veteran Michael Paul Brown, is currently at large and believed to be armed. Authorities maintain that Brown is a few miles west of Anaconda, heightening concerns for public safety as the manhunt continues. The community remains on edge as law enforcement works diligently to locate and apprehend the suspected gunman.
This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights presented in the Fox News Hourly Update, providing a comprehensive overview of the major news stories covered in the 10 PM ET newscast from August 2, 2025.