US Current Events: Politics, Weather, and Tragedy

The summary details various US news items, including Trump's White House appointments amid a winter storm, Biden expanding Social Security benefits, New Orleans' barrier issue after a vehicle attack, and the tragic death of director Jeff Baena, husband of Aubrey Plaza.

Amid concerns over the strength of New Orleans' street barriers, found insufficient against potential vehicle attacks, new installations continue, as confirmed by an April engineering analysis.

President Joe Biden officially signed an expansion of Social Security benefits, marking the first amendment in two decades, primarily aiding retirees with public pensions.

Hollywood mourns the loss of screenwriter and director Jeffrey Baena, discovered deceased in his home by apparent suicide, highlighting mental health awareness and its prevailing impact on the creative community.

(With inputs from agencies.)