The daily U.S. count of new coronavirus cases stood near an all-time high Thursday. It's hovering close to the late-April peak that marked some of the darkest and deadliest days of the crisis so far.

By Jennifer Peltz, Elaine Kurtenbach, Associated Press

As Americans attempt to return to pre-pandemic habits and activities, COVID-19 continues to spread. More than 20 states have seen a jump in coronavirus cases in the past couple of weeks, and hospitalizations have increased significantly in at least eight.

In some places, there have been data gaps that leave local leaders wondering whether they should loosen or tighten restrictions. In others, officials are accused of spinning the numbers to make their states look better and justify reopening.

By Michelle R. Smith, Associated Press