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With that, here’s the news:
House Budget Bill Vote:
The House is at a standstill as Republican leaders struggle to rally holdouts, delaying a crucial rule vote.
Speaker Mike Johnson says “very positive” progress is being made on passing Donald Trump’s megabill.
Johnson admits, “We can’t make everyone 100% happy.”
The White House told House GOP leaders that Trump convinced hardliner holdouts to soften their stance.
Some members indicated they are closer to a "yes" vote after a “productive” meeting with Trump.
During a White House meeting with moderate Republicans:
Trump advised not to touch Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security if they want to win elections.
One member pointed out, “But we’re touching Medicaid in this bill.”
Donald Trump seemingly does not know what is inside the bill he is about to sign if it passes.
The Congressional Black Caucus held a press conference criticizing the bill’s tax and spending policies.
They argue the bill would be devastating for Black Americans.
Rep. Robin Kelly called the bill “cruel and evil,” saying it will cost lives.
She highlighted that 13.3 million Black Americans rely on Medicaid, including 5.7 million children.
Kelly warned of broader consequences, including negative impacts on hospitals.
Rep. Victoria Spartz told reporters she will vote against the rule but for the bill.
All Other News:
A CIA review found flaws in the 2016 Russia interference assessment but upheld the conclusion that Putin aimed to help Trump, while recommending a lower confidence rating.
Sean “Diddy” Combs was denied bail following his convictions on two counts of prostitution related charges, despite his acquittal on the most serious charges.
Israel used a 500lb US-made bomb in a Gaza café strike that experts say may constitute a war crime due to civilian presence.
Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty to murdering four University of Idaho students, avoiding the death penalty through a plea deal.
A federal court ruled Trump’s proclamation of an “invasion” at the southern border was unlawful and violated asylum rights.
Senator Gillibrand apologized to NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani for falsely linking him to “global jihad” comments.
Seven people are missing after a fireworks warehouse explosion in rural California that caused widespread fires and destruction.
Trump announced a trade deal with Vietnam lowering tariffs to 20%, with Vietnam agreeing to more U.S. market access including large-engine vehicles.
Georgia’s DeKalb County appointed election denier Gail Lee to its election board, despite her history of challenging voter registrations and promoting 2020 election denial.
See you this evening.
— Aaron
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