Author: Loisa Lane

President Trump may delay Todd Blanche’s nomination as attorney general due to opposition from Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis. Both senators have indicated they will block the nomination unless the administration abandons a contentious “anti-weaponization” fund.

Ukrainian Ambassador Olga Stefanishyna reported a positive shift in Ukraine’s relationship with the U.S., citing recent communications between President Zelenskyy and President Trump. Ukraine is now focusing on delivering concrete results in defence cooperation, as discussions about air defence procurement continue amid winter preparations.

A recent CBS News/YouGov survey indicates that a majority of Americans feel their incomes are not keeping pace with inflation, with both major parties viewed unfavourably regarding cost of living policies. Democrats are perceived to provide slightly more help than Republicans, yet the overall feedback remains negative.

The Trump administration reaffirmed its position that China’s alleged acquisition of millions of U.S. voter registration files constitutes election interference. The White House cited intelligence from various agencies, noting the data included non-public information, but did not specify the details or extent of the compromise.

The Justice Department is attempting to deport Nazira Haji Zada, a 47-year-old Afghan woman from Texas, identified as an “alien terrorist.” This unprecedented case, set for a hearing in the Alien Terrorist Removal Court, involves alleged links to a foiled Islamic State-inspired attack planned for Election Day 2024.

Todd Blanche’s nomination as attorney general is postponed as Senator John Cornyn seeks a written agreement to terminate the Justice Department’s “anti-weaponization fund.” The Senate Judiciary Committee’s vote was delayed amid concerns, while negotiations continue between Cornyn, Senator Thom Tillis, and committee chairman Chuck Grassley.

Former FBI Director James Comey submitted motions to dismiss federal charges alleging he threatened President Trump through a cryptic Instagram post. Comey’s legal team cited claims of selective prosecution and misconduct by the government, alongside requests for evidence suppression and disclosure of grand jury proceedings. An arraignment is scheduled for September 30.

The U.S. and Saudi militaries conducted airstrikes on Iranian-backed groups in Iraq, targeting “terrorist logistics and weapons sites” following alleged attacks on American forces. The Popular Mobilisation Forces reported at least 20 fatalities. CENTCOM linked the strikes to over 30 drone threats aimed at U.S. interests.

President Trump and Vice President JD Vance attended Senator Lindsey Graham’s funeral at Washington National Cathedral, where speakers included Trump and Sean Hannity. Graham, remembered as a “towering figure” in the Senate, will be privately buried in Pickens, South Carolina, on Wednesday.

Senators gathered at the U.S. Capitol to pay tribute to Lindsey Graham, remembered as a “towering figure” by Majority Leader John Thune. The ceremony preceded Graham’s funeral at Washington National Cathedral, where President Trump and international leaders, including Benjamin Netanyahu and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, are set to attend.