Texas Governor Greg Abbott may soon sign Senate Bill 3, a sweeping ban on products containing any amount of THC, effectively eliminating the state’s multi-billion dollar hemp industry. Driven by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick’s anti-cannabis crusade, the bill jeopardizes 50,000 jobs and billions in tax revenue, despite widespread opposition and concerns about creating a dangerous black market. The legislation ignores the federal hemp allowance for products with less than 0.3% THC, punishing businesses and consumers who utilize hemp products. While some concerns exist regarding products exceeding federal THC limits, the bill’s broad scope is widely criticized as an overreaction.
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In a recent interview, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stated that his government will not cooperate with Iran and that any peace with Israel must be genuine and address Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories. He further emphasized Lebanon’s commitment to peace while highlighting the presence of uncontrolled weaponry within the country. Conversely, Hezbollah, reiterated its unwavering resistance against Israel, demanding Israeli withdrawal and the fulfillment of prior agreements before considering further negotiations. Salam’s appointment, viewed as a setback for Hezbollah, underscores the ongoing tensions between the Lebanese government and the Iran-backed group.
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The UK will invest £1 billion in AI and a new cyber command to combat escalating cyber warfare, bolstering its digital defenses and offensive capabilities. This initiative, involving a “digital targeting web” operational by 2027, will enhance battlefield decision-making speed and integration of weapons systems. The new command, led by General Sir Jim Hockenhull, will coordinate offensive cyber operations with the National Cyber Force, countering approximately 90,000 state-sponsored cyberattacks targeting UK defenses in the past two years. This response addresses the increasingly intense cyber warfare, particularly from Russia, and the need for stronger online defense and offensive strategies.
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Elon Musk concluded his temporary role as a special government employee leading the Department of Government Efficiency (“Doge”), after reaching his 130-day service limit. His departure follows criticism of President Trump’s budget bill, which Musk deemed fiscally irresponsible and counterproductive to Doge’s goals. Despite his exit, Musk expressed confidence in Doge’s long-term impact on government efficiency. During his tenure, Doge oversaw significant federal job reductions, though some cuts were later challenged and reversed by courts.
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Nicolle Saroukos, a newlywed Australian visiting her U.S. Army husband in Honolulu, was unexpectedly detained and deported after U.S. border officials subjected her to aggressive questioning, a body cavity search, and overnight imprisonment at the Federal Detention Center. The officials cited concerns about her visa and the quantity of her belongings, despite her marriage to a U.S. serviceman. Saroukos was ultimately deported without contacting her husband or receiving adequate food or communication privileges. This incident highlights potential pitfalls for travelers and raises questions regarding CBP procedures.
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Following a three-day wave of intense drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, Russia requested a U.N. Security Council meeting. This request, made by Russia’s U.N. envoy, cites alleged European interference in peace negotiations as the justification. The meeting, scheduled for May 30th, comes one day after a separate session requested by Ukraine’s allies to address the humanitarian crisis. Russia’s continued rejection of ceasefire calls and escalation of attacks contrasts sharply with Ukraine and its allies’ pleas for peace.
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A Lowy Institute report reveals that 75 of the world’s poorest countries face a substantial increase in debt repayments to China, totaling $22 billion in 2025, a significant portion of the overall $35 billion owed. This surge in debt, largely stemming from China’s Belt and Road Initiative, strains already limited funds for essential services like healthcare and education, coinciding with a decrease in Western aid. The report suggests this debt could be used for political leverage, particularly as China’s lending has decreased despite increased global economic pressure. While China denies creating “debt traps,” the situation creates a dilemma for Beijing, balancing diplomatic pressure for debt restructuring with domestic economic concerns.
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A federal court blocked President Trump’s broad use of emergency powers to impose tariffs, halting a key component of his trade policy. The ruling, from the U.S. Court of International Trade, found that Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). While some tariffs imposed under different legal authorities remain, the decision represents a significant legal setback for the administration. The White House has appealed the ruling, setting the stage for a potential Supreme Court review.
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At a White House press briefing, President Trump reacted angrily to a reporter’s question about the “TACO trade,” a Wall Street term suggesting he backs down from tariff threats. He vehemently denied this, citing negotiations with the EU, where a threatened 50% tariff prompted immediate talks, and his strategic tariff reductions with China. Trump framed his actions as successful negotiations, ultimately boosting the U.S. economy. He dismissed the question as “nasty,” highlighting his belief in the positive outcomes of his trade policies.
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Court says Trump doesn’t have the authority to set tariffs. This ruling, stemming from a full court decision, finally puts a stop to a practice many believed was unconstitutional from the start. The decision clarifies a fundamental principle of our system of government: the power to impose tariffs rests with Congress, not the executive branch.
Court says Trump doesn’t have the authority to set tariffs, and this impacts far more than just the immediate economic consequences. The ruling highlights a crucial separation of powers, a cornerstone of our democratic framework. It underscores the importance of adhering to the checks and balances designed to prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual, regardless of their position.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood