Despite the president’s imposed July 4 deadline, Republicans face internal discord regarding the passage of the tax cut bill. House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged the need for compromise, as the House Freedom Caucus criticized the Senate’s version, advocating for further cuts. Moderates are concerned about the bill’s impact on safety-net programs, while swing-district Republicans fear backlash. With the ability to lose only three votes, opposition from any group could prevent passage, causing significant delays.
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A senior Iranian cleric, Grand Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi, has issued a fatwa declaring anyone who threatens Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as an “enemy of God.” The fatwa, which was a response to threats from U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli leaders, extends to senior Shiite clerics, and calls on Muslims worldwide to hold those responsible for the threats accountable. This ruling, which directly named Trump, may influence judicial decisions, particularly in countries with Sharia-based legal systems. The fatwa follows a period of heightened tensions, including a 12-day conflict, and could potentially lead to crackdowns on opposition forces.
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Despite widespread negative polling data and criticisms, Donald Trump maintained that his spending bill, which adds trillions to the national debt, is highly popular due to its tax cuts. He dismissed the negative poll numbers as partisan, even though numerous reputable polls showed poor approval ratings. The bill has faced significant criticism, including from former ally Elon Musk, who called it an “abomination.” In response to Musk’s criticisms, Trump threatened actions against Musk’s companies, potentially involving the Department of Government Efficiency, and hinted at the possibility of his deportation.
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During a rally in Iowa, former President Donald Trump used the term “Shylocks,” a word considered an antisemitic slur, while discussing bankers. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) responded, calling Trump’s use of the term “very troubling and irresponsible” and highlighting its association with harmful stereotypes about Jewish people. This incident sparked backlash online, with some figures calling for the ADL to condemn the statement. Trump, when asked about the comment, stated he was unaware of the term’s negative connotations.
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A new migrant detention center, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” has opened in the Florida Everglades, built in record time and with an initial capacity of 3,000 detainees. The facility, which is expected to expand to 5,000 beds, will house immigrants arrested by Florida law enforcement under the 287(g) program. While the state is funding and operating the center, federal agencies have distanced themselves from it, despite it being championed by former President Donald Trump, who has embraced the facility. The center, which is located on land seized by state officials, has drawn criticism from environmental groups, human rights advocates, and Native American tribes.
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House Speaker Mike Johnson faced unexpected delays as he attempted to advance the tax and Medicaid-cutting bill passed by the Senate, encountering resistance from within his own party. Procedural votes stalled the process as some Republicans expressed concerns about the Senate version, creating a tense standoff. Despite the slim majority and several holdouts, Johnson kept the vote open, eventually leading to some Republicans changing their positions after pressure from Donald Trump and other officials. The situation highlighted the challenges in meeting Trump’s deadline, with the bill facing criticism for its substantial tax cuts paired with spending reductions that are expected to increase the national debt.
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Elon Musk has reignited his feud with Donald Trump, demanding the release of unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files as Trump’s spending bill faces a House vote. Musk, who opposes the bill due to concerns over deficits, previously claimed Trump’s name was in the Epstein files, though Trump has denied any involvement. This latest clash comes as Trump has threatened to investigate Musk and his companies. Despite their prior association, no evidence currently links Trump to Epstein’s crimes.
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During the Biden administration, a debate arose regarding the prosecution of Donald Trump, with some advocating for accountability and others prioritizing due process. This latter group, including figures in the legal and academic fields, largely influenced the administration’s approach. Consequently, law enforcement displayed reluctance in pursuing charges and trials were delayed, allowing Trump to potentially benefit politically from the delays. The article argues that this leniency has emboldened Trump, enabling his actions, and suggesting a slide towards authoritarianism. The author asserts that the hesitancy to hold Trump accountable, which is viewed as a lack of spine and cowardly, may pave the way for future demagogues.
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The Pentagon’s unexpected halt of weapon transfers to Ukraine, including air defense missiles and precision munitions, has raised concerns among US allies and officials. This decision, reportedly driven by Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby and a small group of advisors, was made without consulting the State Department, US embassy in Kyiv, or other key players. The pause has led to internal divisions within the White House and prompted reactions from both the Ukrainian President and members of Congress. The withheld shipments include Patriot missiles, Hellfire missiles, and thousands of Howitzer rounds, while Russian forces continue their attacks on Ukrainian territories.
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According to Michael Wolff, Donald Trump is reportedly claiming credit for tipping off The New York Times about Elon Musk’s alleged drug use, specifically ketamine, and other substances, as reported in May. Trump has been making disparaging remarks about Musk during phone calls with associates, fueled by the Tesla and SpaceX CEO’s opposition to a spending bill Trump is championing. This ongoing feud, and Musk’s threat to form a new political party, has intensified the conflict between the two, with Trump even suggesting Musk’s government subsidies could be jeopardized. Wolff’s claims are based on tracking Trump’s phone calls, while Trump’s communications director has previously refuted such claims.
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John Q. Hosedrinker