During a four-day diplomatic trip to Saudi Arabia, President Trump, appearing fatigued from travel, was observed frequently closing his eyes during a welcome ceremony hosted by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This prompted social media commentary comparing the lack of media attention to similar instances involving President Biden. Trump’s apparent drowsiness, though not officially addressed by the White House, follows previous accusations of public napping, including during his own trial. The incident highlights the contrast between public perception of presidential fatigue across administrations.
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Following a Supreme Court setback regarding his administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan migrants, President Trump vehemently criticized the court on Truth Social, claiming that preventing the deportation of alleged criminals would destroy the nation. He sought Supreme Court approval for the deportation of nearly 200 Venezuelan migrants detained in Texas, referring to them as “murderers” and “criminals.” Public opinion on Trump’s immigration policies remains divided, with recent polls showing fluctuating levels of approval. The Supreme Court is also set to hear arguments on Trump’s executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship.
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Rodrigo Duterte won the Davao mayoral election by a landslide, securing over eight times more votes than his closest competitor, despite his ongoing ICC detention on charges of crimes against humanity. His victory, fueled by his reputation as a crime-fighter, underscores his enduring influence in Davao. This win comes amidst his arrest by Philippine police at the request of the ICC, sparking outrage among supporters. The Duterte family’s continued political dominance in Davao is significant, particularly given the impending impeachment trial facing his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte.
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President Trump’s Middle East trip began with a nearly $142 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia, touted as the largest defense cooperation agreement in history. This deal, along with discussions at the Gulf Cooperation Council Summit, aims to address the Israel-Hamas conflict and a potential nuclear deal with Iran, though Trump’s omission of Israel from this trip has raised concerns. Further meetings in Qatar and the UAE will focus on diplomatic and investment deals, including a controversial luxury jet gift to Trump from Qatar. The agreements are expected to significantly boost Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030.
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Chief Justice Roberts warned Georgetown law students that the rule of law is under threat, citing recent attacks against Supreme Court justices as exceeding acceptable criticism. He emphasized the rarity of the rule of law globally and historically, while acknowledging that criticism of court decisions is beneficial, provided it remains focused on legal arguments rather than personal attacks. Roberts’ comments followed attacks on justices, including Amy Coney Barrett, by President Trump and his allies, who have disregarded court rulings and even called for impeachment of judges. This behavior prompted a rare statement from Roberts defending the judiciary’s independence.
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President Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman finalized a landmark $600 billion investment agreement, encompassing energy, mining, and defense sectors. A significant component of this deal is a nearly $142 billion arms sale, touted as the largest in history. The White House emphasizes the deal’s strengthening of US energy security and technological leadership. Trump lauded the agreement as fostering economic growth and a more prosperous future for the Middle East.
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The Episcopal Church is ending its refugee resettlement partnership with the federal government due to the Trump administration’s preferential treatment of white South African immigrants. This decision follows the arrival of 59 South Africans on a taxpayer-funded flight, a move the church views as prioritizing one group over others waiting in dangerous conditions. Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe cited the church’s commitment to racial justice and the administration’s undermining of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program as key factors in this choice. The church plans to redirect its resources to support migrants through alternative means. The decision highlights concerns over the administration’s handling of refugee resettlement and the perceived politicization of the process.
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High U.S. drug prices stem from its unique healthcare system compared to other high-income nations with universal coverage. Trump’s previous “Most Favored Nation” policy, aimed at reducing Medicare drug costs, failed due to legal challenges. His latest executive order mandates negotiations with drugmakers, threatening to tie U.S. prices to those of other countries if agreements aren’t reached within 30 days. Currently, however, no price changes have resulted.
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President Trump’s acceptance of a $400 million Boeing 747 from Qatar as a replacement Air Force One has sparked controversy, drawing criticism for potential violations of constitutional gift rules and foreign influence concerns. Republican lawmakers, including Senators Graham, Scott, Hawley, Paul, and Collins, have voiced concerns ranging from national security risks to ethical improprieties related to the gift’s origin. The situation highlights a significant rift within the Republican party, with even staunch Trump allies expressing apprehension. While the White House maintains compliance with all applicable laws, the deal’s future remains uncertain.
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The Episcopal Church’s refusal to participate in a federal program resettling white South African refugees has ignited a firestorm of criticism from the American right. Prominent conservatives accused the church of racism and demanded funding cuts, citing the church’s receipt of over $50 million in federal grants for refugee resettlement. The Episcopal Church justified its decision based on its commitment to racial justice and its historical ties to South Africa, while the Trump administration maintains that these refugees are victims of genocide. The church will end its federal refugee resettlement program by September but will continue aiding refugees through other means.
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John Q. Hosedrinker