Author: Loisa Lane

A federal judge has temporarily halted the Justice Department’s implementation of the $1.7 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund, pending consideration of a lawsuit challenging its legality. U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema’s order prevents any disbursement of funds amid concerns over its establishment and potential payouts.

The Trump administration faces criticism regarding funding cuts to federal health agencies as the U.S. government manages a hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius and monitors an Ebola outbreak in Africa. Democrats allege these reductions hinder responses to infectious disease threats.

U.S. sources confirmed a tentative memorandum of understanding for a 60-day ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement now awaits approval from President Trump and Iranian leadership, with further details provided by Imtiaz Tyab.

Several artists announced for the Great American State Fair have withdrawn from the event amid concerns regarding its political ties. Morris Day, Young MC, and The Commodores have opted not to participate, citing miscommunication about the event’s nonpartisan nature. Freedom 250, the event’s organiser, maintains its commitment to unity and celebration.

The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in favour of Terry Pitchford, a Black death row inmate from Mississippi, concerning racial discrimination during jury selection. The court found that the trial court did not adequately address the defence’s objections to peremptory strikes against Black jurors. Pitchford’s conviction is now invalidated, allowing for retrial.

The U.S. is establishing a quarantine facility in Kenya for Americans exposed to Ebola, confirmed by CDC officials. This site aims to provide immediate, high-quality care without the extended transport time back to the U.S., while officials work to contain the outbreak.

Michele Spagnuolo, a Google software engineer, faces federal charges for allegedly profiting over $1.2 million by wagering on confidential company data using Polymarket. The charges include commodities fraud and wire fraud, and he has been released on a $2.25 million bond after an arrest in New York.

The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating whether E. Jean Carroll committed perjury regarding her civil lawsuits against President Trump. The inquiry, led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois, focuses on her 2022 deposition claims about funding sources for her litigation.

The U.S. military conducted strikes against Iranian drones near the Strait of Hormuz, targeting a control station in Bandar Abbas. Although described as defensive measures, the strikes challenge the ongoing U.S.-Iran ceasefire. The situation evolves as diplomatic discussions continue regarding Iran’s nuclear programme.

Adam Candeub, currently general counsel at the Federal Communications Commission, is a leading candidate for Assistant Attorney General of the Antitrust Division. He previously criticised the tech sector and is expected to oversee significant mergers, following the impending departure of Omeed Assefi next month.